The Cochamó Valley, in Chile’s Los Lagos region, is now officially protected. Over 328,000 hectares of forests, granite walls, and unique ecosystems have been safeguarded through the acquisition of Fundo Puchegüín, the result of an international mobilization involving thousands of people from 21 countries. A concrete action that ensures the long-term conservation of one of the iconic places of world climbing and South American outdoor adventure. To celebrate this milestone, Patagonia has released the short film “Cochamó Por Siempre,” available online. The film is narrated by Belgian alpinist Sean Villanueva and features Tommy Caldwell, who takes viewers on a journey to discover a valley renowned for the quality of its granite and an exceptional concentration of world-class routes. A place often compared to Yosemite for its climbing style, wall continuity, and scenic value.
Beyond big wall climbing, Cochamó represents a broader natural heritage, made up of ancient forests, endemic species, and biological corridors essential to Latin America. The conservation model adopted includes shared management with local communities, maintaining traditional uses, outdoor activities, and low-impact tourism. A vision that protects the territory without turning it into a closed or inaccessible place. Cochamó Por Siempre is not just a climbing film, but a cultural manifesto for the entire outdoor world. It shows how the defense of trails, walls, and natural spaces comes through collective commitment and shared responsibility. A message that also speaks to Europe and Italy, where the protection of natural territories and access to the outdoors remains a daily challenge, made of choices, participation, and long-term vision.
