Places to see in Santiago de Chile?

[Janne]

I was wondering if anyone might know any botanically interesting places to visit near santiago? Or is it enough just to get outside of the city into the mountains and exotic species rich areas are everywhere. Is there there a major differences between north- and southslopes on the mountains. Any help or comments are appreciated!

Thank you,
Janne

[Gerdk]

Dear Janne,
Just go to the ski-resorts near Santiago (La Parva / El Colorado /
Farellones and Valle Nevado for instance). Here (and when driving to these places) you will surely find a lot of interesting andine species. Before you do that I would recommend to look for " Plantas Altoandinas " by Hoffmann, Kalin Arroyo, Liberona, Munoz and Watson. There is a difference between south- and northfacing slopes - the northfacing ones are much hotter and dryer. This can be noted especially when visiting the two parts of the Parque Nacional La Campana - also not far vom Santiago.
Best wishes
Gerd

[Stephenb]

I had a day to spare in Santiago a couple of years ago. I hired a taxi for the day (this was recommended in an article I read in NARGS' Riock Garden Quarterly) and went up to one of the ski resort areas closest to the city. Didn't cost more than £50-60 for about an 8 hour trip, no stress from driving in the city and the flowers were out of this world. And, yes, the Hoffmann book is essential....

Stephen, Malvik, Norway

[Maggi Young]

A warm welcome to the new SRGC forum to you all. I will keep all your advice in mind, lest I should find myself with a day or two spare on Santiago de Chile!! I wish!!