Patagonia's glaciers, straddling Chile and Argentina, form the Southern Hemisphere's largest expanse of ice outside Antarctica—a frozen archive spanning millennia and the lifeblood of rivers, ecosystems, and communities across the region. Globally, they are vital freshwater reserves. Yet, they are vanishing at an alarming rate. In Issue 32, we present a special section spotlighting the peril facing Patagonia’s ancient ice, featuring stories by Daniela Carrion and Ignacio Bruno.

 

This issue also features captivating writing and photography by French environmental scientist Lauric Thiault, who recounts his 500-day sailing journey with his partner, Nao, along the Chilean Patagonian coast from south to north. It provides a rare glimpse into an adventure through parts of Patagonia few have ever witnessed. We interview Chilean conservationist Rodrigo Condeza about his recent campaign and stunning success in raising $78 million to protect 133,000 hectares of wild Cochamó. Inés de Ros writes about ecological restoration and the revival of araucarias in Reserva Nasampulli. Andria Hautamaki shares the story of a man who lived in solitude near Torres del Paine for decades. Our executive editor, Jimmy Langman, highlights the outstanding ecotourism opportunities on Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula. Simeon Tegel tells of trekking in the rugged, soon-to-be national park, Cabo Froward. Plus, this edition showcases the winning photographs from our 7th Patagonia Photo Contest—and much more.

 

As we wrote on the back cover of this issue, good journalism is getting hard to find. Patagon Journal published its first edition in December 2011. As we approach our 15th anniversary, we invite you to support our work by subscribing or becoming a Premium Member.