Valdivia was chosen as the first Wetland City in Latin America

In a historic event for Chile, Valdivia has been distinguished as the first "Wetland City" in the country and throughout Latin America, a designation granted by the Standing Committee of the Ramsar Convention in Switzerland. With this accreditation, the capital of the Los Ríos Region joins an exclusive group of 43 cities worldwide that have demonstrated a strong commitment to the conservation and sustainable use of their urban and peri-urban wetlands.

The Ramsar Convention, signed in 1971 in the Iranian city of the same name, is the only international treaty dedicated exclusively to the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands. With 168 member countries, this convention promotes sustainable development and scientific research, fostering a harmonious relationship between cities and their aquatic ecosystems.

The nomination of Valdivia was submitted on February 28, 2024, by the Chilean Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through its Environmental Division (DIMA), with technical support from the Municipality of Valdivia. This milestone represents an opportunity to strengthen investment in the city, increase its global visibility, and exchange knowledge with other locations that share this prestigious recognition.

Foreign Minister Alberto van Klaveren and Minister of the Environment Maisa Rojas highlighted the importance of this distinction for the conservation of wetlands and its impact on the sustainable development of Valdivia.

Valdivia: A Model of Conservation and Sustainability

This recognition is the result of years of civic and institutional efforts to protect wetlands. Mayor Carla Amtmann emphasized the community’s fundamental role in this achievement: "It is a recognition of the people of Valdivia who have defended our wetlands, rivers, and ecosystems for years".

She also pointed out that this recognition does not impose new regulations but rather reinforces the city’s leadership in adapting to environmental crises and opens new opportunities for international funding.

The history of wetland conservation in Valdivia dates back to 1981, when the Río Cruces-Chorocamayo Nature Sanctuary was declared Chile’s first Ramsar Site. Since then, various environmental initiatives have been implemented, such as the Wetland Protection Ordinance, the Urban Wetlands Protection Law promoted by Senator Alfonso de Urresti, and the declaration of new Nature Sanctuaries, such as Angachilla and Llancahue.

Other achievements include the establishment of the Valdivia Wetlands Committee, the specialized cleaning of urban wetlands since 2023, and the recent approval of the Secondary Standard for the Valdivia River by the Comptroller’s Office. These actions have been consistently promoted by different administrations and authorities, reaffirming the natural, social, and tourism value of these ecosystems.

By joining this select group, Valdivia positions itself as a leader in sustainable tourism and biodiversity protection. Furthermore, this distinction highlights the importance of wetlands as essential sources of employment, food, and well-being for the local community. The accreditation as a "Wetland City" implies a long-term commitment from the Chilean government and Valdivia’s municipality to ensure the preservation of these natural spaces.

What to See in Valdivia

Valdivia is an unmissable destination for those seeking history, nature, and culture in one place. Upon arriving in the city, one of the first points of interest is Avenida Arturo Prat, better known as the waterfront promenade. This pedestrian walkway, bordering the Calle Calle River, offers a privileged view of Valdivia’s river landscape. Here, visitors can find the Fluvial Market, an iconic location where they can observe the daily commercial activity of locals buying fresh fish, seafood, fruits, and vegetables from the region.

Continuing through the city, Avenida General Lagos takes travelers to Valdivia’s oldest neighborhood. This area is home to the Torreón del Canelo, a colonial-era structure that served as a watchtower to defend against aboriginal and pirate attacks. Further ahead, in the heart of the city, visitors can explore San Francisco Church and the Plaza de la República, also known as Plaza de Armas. This public square is known for its well-maintained gardens and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed stroll.

Crossing the Pedro de Valdivia Bridge, visitors arrive at Isla Teja, home to the Austral University of Chile. From there, a coastal route leads to Niebla and the Los Molinos beach resort, offering travelers scenic views of rivers, bridges, and docks. In this area, the Cruces and Calle Calle Rivers merge, forming the Valdivia River.

One of the most historically significant sites in the city is the Niebla Castle, a fortress strategically located on a promontory facing the ocean. Built with Cancagua stone and equipped with cannons brought from Spain, this fort was part of the defensive system of the Spanish crown to protect the region from pirate incursions. Today, its museum rooms display artifacts and documents narrating the history of coastal defense and the ambitions of the corsairs who attempted to conquer these lands.

Come and discover the first "Wetland City" in Latin America!

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