Embalse La Paloma
Lake Reservoir in Coquimbo used for irrigation
Embalse La Paloma is a reservoir in Chile’s Coquimbo Region that provides water storage for the surrounding agricultural areas. It is one of the notable artificial lakes in the dry interior of the region.
The reservoir and its shores are used for water-based recreation such as boating and fishing where local conditions permit, and the surrounding landscape is typical of semi-arid Chilean interior valleys. It is primarily visited for day-use boating and birdwatching by people from nearby towns.
The reservoir was created by construction of a dam to capture seasonal runoff for irrigation and municipal supply, forming a managed water body that supports regional agriculture. Management is under regional water authorities and local agencies.
Embalse La Paloma is located in the Coquimbo administrative region of north-central Chile, inland from the Pacific coast and serving communities in the surrounding agricultural valleys.
- Primary use: Serves as an important regional water-storage reservoir used for agricultural irrigation and local water supply.
How to Get to Embalse La Paloma #
Drive from the regional center of the Coquimbo Region toward local towns that service agricultural valleys; the reservoir sits off regional roads and will be signed locally. A car is the most practical way to reach the site.
Tips for Visiting Embalse La Paloma #
- Check local advisories for water levels - the reservoir's accessibility can change with seasonal irrigation needs.
- Birdwatchers should bring binoculars; the left embankments attract waterfowl in migration periods.
- If fishing, verify licensing requirements with regional authorities.
Best Time to Visit Embalse La Paloma #
Spring and autumn are the most comfortable times to visit for outdoor activities.
Weather & Climate near Embalse La Paloma #
Embalse La Paloma's climate is classified as Hot Desert - Hot Desert climate with mild summers (peaking in February) and cool winters (coldest in July). Temperatures range from 6°C to 25°C. Very dry conditions with minimal rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 14°C. The driest month with just 0 mm.
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February
February is the warmest month with highs of 25°C and lows of 14°C. The driest month with just 0 mm.
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March
March is cool with highs of 23°C and lows of 12°C. The driest month with just 0 mm.
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April
April is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 10°C. Almost no rain.
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May
May is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 8°C. Light rainfall.
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June
June is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 6°C. Light rainfall.
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July
July is the coolest month with highs of 15°C and lows of 6°C. The wettest month with 47 mm of rain.
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August
August is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 7°C. Light rainfall.
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September
September is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 8°C. Almost no rain.
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October
October is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 9°C. Almost no rain.
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November
November is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 11°C. Almost no rain.
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December
December is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 13°C. The driest month with just 0 mm.
