chile country places to visit

The best places to visit in Chile, from urban glam to natural highs

Aug 26, 2023 • 7 min read

Plan your Chile itinerary while strolling the streets of Santiago © Lucy Valdes / Getty Images

With the soaring Andes to the east, the pounding Pacific to the west, Patagonian fjords down south and an immense desert up north, Chile is the kind of diverse natural playground that adventure lovers dream about.

Yet, this thin South American country also boasts vibrant cities, enigmatic islands and rolling vinelands dotted with world-class wineries. Below, we look at the 10 spots you won’t want to miss.

1. San Pedro de Atacama

Best place to access the Atacama desert 

When the green oasis of San Pedro appears on the otherwise barren horizon of the Atacama Desert it feels, at first, almost like a mirage. Then, as you begin to navigate the narrow streets of this small adobe village, you realize that those spindly chañar trees hide the kind of resort town travelers dream about, catering as much to well-heeled jetsetters as it does to scruffy backpackers.

Just beyond San Pedro are lunar-like valleys, snow-capped volcanoes, soaring sand dunes, ancient rock art, steamy hot springs and flamingo-filled lagoons. You could spend an entire week here and never run out of activities. Those who like to tick off superlatives can’t miss the world’s loftiest geysers  and largest ground-based astronomy facility .

Local tip:  Always be sure to plan your excursions with the altitude in mind, saving attractions higher up in the Andes (like the El Tatio geysers) for your final days.

2. Rapa Nui (Easter Island)

Best place to learn about Polynesian culture

This tiny volcanic outcrop in the middle of the vast Pacific has an outsized reputation around the world thanks to the 887 monolithic human statues (known as moai) that guard its azure shores. The mystery of how the ancient Rapa Nui people were able to build and move such massive structures has fascinated travelers for decades.

Yet, the island is more than just an open-air archeology museum. You can spend an evening listening to Polynesian music at a local dance show, snooze under the palm trees at Anakena Beach and dine on tuna ceviche at the restaurants in Hanga Roa – all of which are perfectly aligned for tangerine sunsets over the Pacific.

Local tip: Three days is the absolute minimum amount of time you'll need to see everything. It's far more recommended that you stay up to a full week to not only see the archeological sites but also snorkel, swim and enjoy the Polynesian culture.

3. Santiago

Best place to go to a party

Chile’s frenetic capital is a cultural powerhouse whose historic center is filled with world-class museums , stately theaters and palm-lined plazas. Key neighborhoods for travelers include Barrio Yungay (for street art), Barrio Italia (for shopping), Lastarria (for strolling), Providencia (for sleeping) and Vitacura (for dining). Come nightfall, neighborhoods like Bellavista and Barrio Brasil explode with energy as Chileans party until sunrise at clubs blasting everything from Latin trap to K-pop, EDM and Reggaeton. 

Santiago makes a great base as there’s plenty to do within an hour of city limits. You can raft whitewater in Cajón del Maipo , swirl Cabernet in the Maipo Valley or snowboard at some of the biggest (and best!) ski resorts in the Southern Hemisphere.

Local tip: LGBTIQ+ travelers should head to Bombero Núñez street, which is lined in bars, clubs and performance venues where drag queens entertain into the wee hours of the night. When going out to dance, don't even think about showing up before midnight! 

Best place to hike and ski a volcano

When it comes to adventure-filled outdoor fun, few places can match Chile's breadth of options – this woodsy resort village in Chile’s Lake District is one of South America’s most alluring adventure hubs. Those with a head for heights can strap on crampons and climb to the top of an active volcano or strap on boots and ski back down it. Abandon urban stresses and hike until you're amid ancient araucaria trees on an Andean hilltop or bathe in a hot spring tucked into a temperate rainforest. Hire a kayak and paddle yourself across an emerald lake to a remote cabin or raft down raging whitewater towards a craft brewery. Located in the spiritual heartland of the Mapuche, it’s also the best place to learn about the culture of Chile’s largest Indigenous group.

5. Valparaíso

Best place for sweeping views and street art

This scrappy seaport west of Santiago has a way of capturing travelers’ hearts (and upending onward travel plans). Maybe it’s the sweeping views you get from hotels and hostels that cling off the edge of the city’s 42 hills? Perhaps it’s the narrow lanes of Unesco-listed architecture, which are covered in prismatic street art? Or could it be the 100-year-old funiculars, which transport visitors up into the clouds? Whatever the reason, Valparaíso has an unkempt charm that can become oddly addicting.

Local tip: Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción are the safest and nicest hills to use as a base for exploring Valparaíso. They're also the most colorful with some of the city's most extravagant murals. 

Best place to get away from it all

Are you rich in time and patience? The remote region of Aysén offers the kind of untouched landscapes and clock-stuck towns that are vanishing elsewhere on earth. There’s only one real road here, the Carretera Austral, and a lot of it remains unpaved, particularly the further south you tread. At points, there is no road at all and you must instead drive onto a car ferry. That’s the tradeoff of visiting the lesser-seen Patagonia, but the rewards are many: vast mountain ranges, deep fjords, loamy rainforests and huge ice fields of glistening glaciers.

7. The Colchagua Valley

Best place for wine

No wine region in Chile can compete with the star power (and tourism infrastructure) of the Colchagua Valley . Centered around the small city of Santa Cruz, about three hours south of Santiago, it boasts dozens of high-end resorts, fine dining restaurants and, of course, vineyards – all catering to international wine lovers. The wineries themselves are true works of art ranging from grand colonnaded estates to ambitious glassine tasting rooms stuffed with million-dollar paintings. Red wines such as Carmenere and Cabernet Sauvignon shine in Colchagua, though most places also serve whites from their vineyards near the Pacific Coast. 

Best place for mythology and ghost stories

Ever heard of a potato? Of course you have. Well, the common spud actually traces its origin to this peanut-shaped island off the coast of northern Patagonia. Culinary travel based around the island’s prismatic native potatoes thrives in the island’s capital, Castro, which is also known for its colorful stilt homes (called palafitos).

But everyone's favorite carb isn't the only reason to visit. You can also hike on coastal trails to remote beaches, seek out Unesco-listed wooden churches or dive into the island’s unique mythology of ghost ships and forest gnomes.

9. Parque Nacional Torres del Paine

Best place for hiking

Search the internet for images of Patagonia and half of them will be from this one national park in southern Chile, whose iconic granite spires have come to represent the entire region. Most visit to either hike along the five-day W Trek or sleep in one of the park’s luxurious all-inclusive adventure lodges, which offer daily guided excursions. With massive glaciers, turquoise lakes and the highest concentration of pumas anywhere on earth, you can spend days here and never run out of places to explore.

Local tip: To get off the beaten path, intrepid hikers should consider doing the  Dientes Circuit on nearby Isla Navarino instead of the W Trek. This remote 5-day 53km (33-mile) route is the southernmost hiking circuit in the world.

10. The Elqui Valley

Best place for stars and pisco

This fertile valley on the southern fringe of the Atacama Desert is the epicenter of Chile’s pisco industry, with a half-dozen distilleries where you can learn about the nation’s revered brandy (as well as toss back a few sours). There are also craft breweries and boutique wineries where you can stock up on supplies for sun-drenched picnics alongside the Elqui River. Come nightfall, this International Dark Sky Sanctuary boasts some of the clearest skies on earth. Several hotels offer glass roofs and telescopes so you can probe the night skies just as some of the world’s top astronomers do in the Valley’s multimillion-dollar observatories.

Local tip: At between 1650 and 2206 meters (5413-7237ft) above sea level,   Viñedos de Alcohuaz is one of Chile's highest-altitude wineries. It produces some truly experimental (and spectacular) bottles, and has a Bond-like underground tasting room.

This article was first published October 2021 and updated August 2023

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16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Chile

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Nov 26, 2021

Boasting one of the planet's most diverse landscapes, Chile has in recent years become an increasingly popular travel destination, particularly among nature lovers and adventure seekers. Here in this long, narrow nation on the west coast of South America, travelers will find an array of stunning sightseeing opportunities, from the tall peaks of the Andes and endless beaches to lush temperate forests, ancient volcanoes, and a dramatic coastline such as that found at Cape Horn .

Chile is also blessed with an abundance of superb national parks and conservation areas , many of them popular destinations for those into trekking and hiking , as well as those who enjoy adventurous things to do such as climbing, river rafting, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

But Chile is not without its cultural attractions, too, with cities such as the capital of Santiago offering many fine museums and art galleries, and stunning Easter Island with its famous stone figures. Whatever your travel preferences, you'll find no shortage of beautiful places to visit and photograph in Chile .

To ensure you see the best points of interest in this amazing South American country, be sure to read our list of the top things to do on Chile.

1. Torres Del Paine National Park

2. valle de la luna and the atacama desert, 3. easter island & rapa nui national park, 4. santiago: chile's cultural capital, 5. the chilean lake district, 6. cape horn, 7. valparaíso, 8. lauca national park, 9. pumalín park, 10. los pingüinos natural monument, 11. the humberstone and santa laura saltpeter works, 12. chiloé island & chiloé national park, 13. valle nevado, 14. mylodon cave natural monument, 15. cochamó valley, 16. vicente pérez rosales national park.

One of Chile's most important natural areas and an increasingly popular travel destination is the spectacular Torres del Paine National Park. Situated more than 100 kilometers north of the city of Puerto Natales in southern Patagonia, this stunningly beautiful area encompasses mountains, glaciers, and countless lakes and rivers.

The most important region of the park is the Cordillera del Paine , an area that marks the transition from the Patagonia steppe to the subpolar forests of the north. Perhaps the most notable of its many wonderful features are the three 2,850-meter-tall granite peaks of the Paine Massif, which dominate this already breathtaking scenery.

Hiking is one of the park's most popular activities, with numerous well-marked trails, many offering overnight shelters (refugios) with the basics needed for longer treks that circle the mountains. If you're planning on anything more than a day's hiking, professional guides are recommended and, in some areas, mandatory.

One of the top guided tours of the park is the five-day W Trek , one of the top hikes in Patagonia . This 71-kilometer route takes in some of the top points of interest in Patagonia, including the massive Glacier Grey and the mountains of Paine Grande.

Address: Magallanes y la Antártica Chilena Region

Official site: www.torresdelpaine.com/ingles/

Valle de la Luna, which literally translates as "Valley of the Moon," lies 13 kilometers west of San Pedro de Atacama at the north end of the country, near its border with Bolivia. It can be accessed via well-marked bike trails, tour buses, or self-drive car rentals.

This rugged, inhospitable looking landscape in the heart of the Atacama Desert attracts many visitors for its eerie resemblance to the surface of the moon, an effect caused by the erosion of its sand and stone features by wind and water over countless millennia. Despite its remoteness, though, this surprisingly beautiful landscape has sustained life for centuries, both human as well as that of numerous species of flora and fauna.

Among its most interesting features are its dry lake beds-this is, after all, one of the driest places on the planet-which are dazzlingly white due to deposited salt, and prone to producing fascinating natural saline outcrops.

Other notable features of the Atacama Desert are the region's many caverns, some containing evidence of pictographs created by early man and where some of the world's oldest mummies, preserved by the area's aridity, were found. The most famous of these, the Chinchorro mummies, are now on display at the archaeological museum in San Miguel de Azapa.

Also of interest is the Laguna Cejar sinkhole, famous for its turquoise water.

Address: San Pedro de Atacama, Antofagasta Region

First visited by Europeans in 1722, the magnificent yet remote Easter Island – so named by a Dutch Explorer who first set eyes on it on Easter Sunday – has been inhabited for thousands of years by Polynesians. Despite being more than 3,500 kilometers away from mainland Chile, this fascinating island with its remarkable stone sculptures remains the country's most recognizable attraction.

All told, 887 of these statues, known as Moai – created by the island's early Rapa Nui population – have been identified, most of them now protected by Rapa Nui National Park (the island itself has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site). The most impressive collection is at Ahu Tongariki where 15 of them have been re-erected on the island's largest Moai platform, or "ahu."

Rapa Nui is also where you'll find one of the country's best beaches, Anakena . This beautiful yet short stretch of white coral sand is the perfect spot for a break from hiking.

Also of interest are the many "hare paenga" ruins near ahu sites consisting of stones that once formed the foundation of boat-shaped houses. Other highlights include the Father Sebastian Englert Anthropological Museum in Hanga Roa , the island's main community, notable for its exhibits relating to the history of the Polynesian islanders and their traditions.

Hot Tip: Visiting Easter Island is best done as part of a Chilean vacation, with regular flights available from Santiago or Tahiti. Flight times are approximately five hours, so expect to stay at least a couple of days.

Read More: Most Beautiful Islands in the South Pacific

Santiago is not only the financial and business capital of Chile, it also serves as the country's cultural and entertainment center. Consequently, it's home to endless fun things to do, including visiting its best museums and galleries, along with excellent shopping, dining, and hotel options.

Centrally located and the country's main transportation hub, Santiago is where most visitors begin their Chilean travels before heading to the Andes or other areas of outstanding natural beauty, such as Easter Island. The smartest travelers, though, will allow time in their Chile travel itinerary to get to know Santiago.

Founded in 1541 and relatively crowd-free, the city features points of interest such as the Centro Cultural Palacio La Moneda , a state-of-the-art cultural center occupying part of the impressive Palacio de la Moneda, and the Chilean National Museum of Fine Arts (Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes). Established in the 1880s, it focuses on Chilean artists, and boasts a large permanent collection of paintings, sculptures, and photos.

Other must-sees are the excellent Museum of Pre-Columbian Art (Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino), featuring collections relating to the country's native people, and the Museum of Memory and Human Rights (Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos). The latter commemorates those who suffered under the Pinochet regime.

A highlight of any visit to Santiago is taking the aerial tramway to San Cristóbal Hill for its stunning views over this most hospitable of cities. There are also some interesting attractions here, including an observatory, a 22-meter-tall statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and an amphitheater.

Be sure to also spend time enjoying Santiago Metropolitan Park (Parque Metropolitano de Santiago), a huge urban green space. Here, you'll find a botanical garden, the Chilean National Zoo, and a funicular railway.

Stretching for more than 330 kilometers from Temuco to Puerto Montt and resembling the alpine regions of Europe, the Chilean Lake District (Zona Sur) is well worth exploring. Like its alpine cousin, this beautiful region of the Andean foothills boasts rich farmland at the base of its many snowcapped volcanoes, ringed by thick forests and the kind of deep lakes that water sports enthusiasts drool over.

And the connection to Europe doesn't end here. After the forced resettlement of the region's indigenous people, the Mapuche , farmers from Switzerland, Austria, and Germany arrived, bringing with them aspects of their own culture that can still be seen in the architecture of towns like Osorno and Valdivia, as well as in the region's customs and festivals.

For adventure seekers, a typical Chilean Lake District itinerary includes endless hiking and biking potential, along with other fun activities such as volcano climbing; white water rafting; kayaking; canoeing; horseback riding; and, come winter, skiing. Road trips to the region are also extremely popular.

Considered something of a Holy Grail for travelers – and the equivalent of Mount Everest for yachting types – Cape Horn is, if you can get here, well worth the effort, if not the bragging rights.

The last stop before Antarctica and the world's southernmost tip, Cape Horn has for centuries been known as a sailor's graveyard for its remoteness, its hazardous coastline, and the rough seas that prevail here. While less important as a trade route now thanks to the Panama Canal, it has seen an increase in popularity among serious sailing enthusiasts, and features in a number of exciting races.

For the rest of us, it can, with careful planning, still be visited. There are, however, only a few ways to get to Cape Horn (apart from having your own yacht, of course). An increasingly popular option is via helicopter from the Chilean town of Puerto Toro. A day-long adventure, it can be expensive, so you may want to seek travel companions on the adventure. Alternatively, charter sailboats can get you here, but it's a long haul and often rough.

Cruise ships are, perhaps, the best option. A number of cruises in fact pass by Cape Horn on their way to Antarctica and will, weather and seas permitting, stop here for an hour. Passengers disembark via inflatable boats, so this part of the journey can be rough, too.

Once ashore, passengers can make the short cliff-top climb to what is perhaps the ultimate tourist selfie spot: the Cape Horn Memorial Sculpture. This breathtaking monument and its incredible views welcome you to the bottom of the world.

Chile's third largest city, Valparaíso, is nestled between the sea and the coastal mountain range about 112 kilometers northwest of Santiago and makes for an excellent day trip. As popular for its many old cobbled streets and unique architecture as it is for its lovely harbor and beaches, the city offers a great deal of fun things to do.

Many tourist attractions focus on the country's rich maritime heritage, including Lord Cochrane's Museum (Museo Lord Cochrane), located in a lovely old colonial home built in 1842. Another must-visit tourist attraction is the superb Naval and Maritime Museum (Museo Naval Y Maritimo) with its displays dealing with the War of the Pacific of 1879 between Chile and allied Peru and Bolivia, with particular emphasis on the contributions of Chile's war heroes.

A related attraction is the Ironclad Huáscar located in the Port of Talcahuano , some 600 kilometers south of Santiago. Talcahuano's beautiful harbor – home to Chile's navy – is the base for this immaculately restored historic vessel built in 1865 in Britain and one of the only surviving such battleships of her kind.

Located in the far north of Chile, just 140 kilometers east of the city of Arica, Lauca National Park (Parque Nacional Lauca) covers an area of 1,300 square kilometers and consists largely of high plains and mountain ranges, many of the latter comprised of large volcanoes.

Highlights include hiking around its many pristine mountain lakes, most notably Cotacotani and Chungara, which reflect the scenery around them to stunning effect. The park also features a number of important archaeological sites, as well as evidence of the early European settlers who left their mark in the region's many fine old colonial churches and buildings.

It's also especially popular for bird-watchers and is home to more than 140 species, including Andean geese, crested ducks, Chilean flamingos, and the massive Andean condor. Another beautiful area popular with nature lovers is Conguillío National Park (Parque Nacional Conguillío), also in the Araucanía Region of the Andes.

Address: Putre, Arica y Parinacota Region

Although only established as a nature sanctuary in 2005, Pumalín Park has become one of Chile's most important and popular conservation areas. Covering a vast area of more than 988,000 acres stretching from the Andes to the Pacific, the area boasts some of the country's most pristine coastline and forests and is notable for being almost entirely untouched by human development.

In addition to protecting the area's rich flora and fauna, including the Alerce, the world's oldest tree species, the park is easily accessible to visitors and provides one of the country's best wilderness experiences. It's owned and operated by the US-based Conservation Land Trust.

Thanks to its extensive network of trails, campgrounds, and visitor facilities, Pumalín Park is a delight to explore, whether for a short nature hike or as part of a longer ecotourism adventure. These often include a stay at rustic cabin-style accommodations overlooking one of the world's most beautiful, unspoiled backdrops.

Address: Sector Río Amarillo S/N Chaitén, Chaiten, Chaitén, Región de los Lagos

Official site: www.parquepumalin.cl/en/index.htm

In addition to its national parks, more of Chile's important conservation efforts can be seen in its many natural monuments. One of the most popular is Los Pingüinos Natural Monument (Monumento natural Los Pingüinos), just 35 kilometers northeast of the city of Punta Arenas at the southern tip of the island and incorporating the beautiful Magdalena and Marta Islands .

As its name suggests (pingüinos is Spanish for penguins), the monument is home to one of Chile's largest penguin colonies, consisting of some 60,000 breeding pairs of Magellanic penguins. Accessible only by guided boat tours, the islands are also home to large colonies of seals and sea lions.

Another of Chile's important natural monuments is El Morado , an easy drive from Santiago and site of the San Francisco Glacier and the 4,674-meter-tall Cerro El Morado mountain.

Address: Punta Arenas, Magallanes y la Antártica Chilena Region

Situated near the northern port city of Iquique in the remote Pampa Desert and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, this fascinating ghost town was once home to a bustling community.

For more than 60 years from about 1880, thousands of Chilean, Bolivian, and Peruvian workers toiled in the Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works (Salitreras Humberstone y Santa Laura), a hostile environment that included some 200 saltpeter mines. In the process, these workers formed a distinct culture and way of life that has been preserved here.

Although derelict since 1960, the site offers a fascinating glimpse into the tough conditions faced by these "pampinos," with many of the site's larger structures still standing and able to be explored. Professional guides are recommended given the area's remoteness and harsh climate.

Address: km 47 A-16, Pozo Almonte, Región de Tarapacá

Situated on Chiloé Island, the country's second largest island, Chiloé National Park is well worth adding to your travel itinerary. While not as rugged as the majority of the country's most striking scenery, Chiloé Island is nevertheless quite unique.

In places, it looks not unlike the kind of rural topography you'd expect to find in parts of Europe – Germany immediately springs to mind – and it's a delight to explore.

In addition to the island's numerous old iconic wooden churches, remnants of the communities established by Jesuit missionaries who settled here in the 1600s, you'll see plenty of attractive, colorful old homes. Known as "palafitos," they snuggle along the shoreline in places and are raised out of the water on stilts. Many of the island's old churches, too, are painted brightly and should be visited.

Chiloé National Park itself has become increasingly popular among tourists in recent years. A highlight of a visit to this area of outstanding natural beauty is the chance to observe wildlife as diverse as blue whales and dolphins (sightseeing excursions are available), and the large penguin breeding grounds on the nearby Islotes de Puñihuil Natural Monument . Available adventures include sea kayaking, hiking, and eco-tourism.

Address: Los Lagos Region

Once a well-kept secret, the fact that Chile is home to some of the world's best skiing is now common knowledge among skiers. By far the most popular ski area in South America, the Valle Nevado (Snowy Valley) resort region in the El Plomo foothills of the Andes is well-served by public transit from the country's capital of Santiago, located just 46 kilometers west of the slopes. Established in 1988, the ski resort covers a vast area and has grown rapidly in the time since.

Boasting mostly clear skies and great snow thanks to its high elevation 3,000 meters above sea level. It's skiable 112 days a year, and the resort features 37 trails and 11 lifts. It's as popular with beginner families as it is with seasoned skiers and snowboarders.

In addition to its three hotels, a variety of rental chalets and condos are available, suitable for short and long stays, and the resort also features eight restaurants. A snow school is located on-site, along with a ski shop and a tour company featuring heli-skiing adventures. Other notable Chilean ski resorts close to Santiago include La Parva and El Colorado .

Address: Avenida Vitacura 5250 of. 304, Vitacura, Región Metropolitana

Official site: https://vallenevado.com/en/

As popular with sightseers as it is with nature lovers, the Mylodon Cave Natural Monument (El Monumento Natural Cueva del Milodón) is situated in the heart of the Patagonia area of Chile a short distance from Puerto Natales.

Highlights of this fascinating natural wonder – part of the popular End of the World scenic drive – include a number of easy-to-access caves set around a formidable rock formation known as the Devil's Chair ( Silla del Diablo ).

The main cave, known as the Milodón Cave , was where, in 1895, the well-preserved remains of a prehistoric Mylodon were discovered (a tall statue of this long-extinct creature marks the spot where the discovery was made), along with remnants of other ancient animals and even human bones.

This impressive cave is some 200 meters deep, and it's fun to explore. If you've got time, take the marked trail that leads to the top of the cave, where you'll enjoy spectacular views over the nearby Eberhard fjord.

Other fun things to do include exploring the park's many other hiking trails, which include a number of raised sections at tree height that are fun to walk.

Address: Y-290 8, Natales, Región de Magallanes y de la Antártica Chilena

Official site: http://cuevadelmilodon.cl/en/index.php

Known as the "Yosemite of Chile," the beautiful Cochamó Valley region of Chile is a delightful area to explore. Situated in the Los Lagos region of the Andes and named after the Cochamó river, it's a region that, like Yosemite, has become extremely popular among hikers and rock climbers, the latter drawn here for the chance to tackle its many 1,000-meter-plus granite walls.

Hikers, for their part, can choose from a variety of trails of varying degrees of difficulty, most of them taking you directly to popular sightseeing spots. These include the many beautiful waterfalls that dot the region.

You'll definitely want to tackle the 10-kilometer-long "Cowboy Trail," so named for its 100-plus-year history as a cattle trail (it was also used by the infamous bank robbers, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, after fleeing the US). This fun six-hour hike starts in the village of Cochamó and leads to La Junta, a rocky outpost with a number of campsites should you wish to bed down for the night.

In addition to the varied flora and fauna here, people are also drawn for the great fly fishing.

Established in 1926 and the first of the country's now numerous national parks, Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park (Parque Nacional Vicente Pérez Rosales) is located in the heart of the Chilean Lake District, and provides the perfect excuse to at least get a taster of this beautiful region.

Easily accessible from the city of Puerto Montt , the big tourist attraction here is the spectacular Petrohué Falls (Saltos del Petrohué). Here, the fast flowing Petrohué River plummets down a volcanic rock chute to Todos los Santos Lake, an especially impressive sight during the rainy season. After descending the falls and rapids, the water settles in the crystal clear lake, a popular fishing and bird-watching spot.

The area is also known for its diverse wildlife, including deer and pumas, as well as its thermal springs. Add to this picture-perfect location a backdrop of snowcapped volcanos, and you've got the perfect selfie spot to snap that memento of your vacation in Chile.

Address: Puerto Varas, Los Lagos Region

More on Chile

20 Must-Visit Attractions in Chile

With some 2,600 miles (4,300 kilometers) separating the southern tip of Patagonia from the northern border of Peru, Chile has a myriad of worthwhile attractions across a variety of geographical zones. Starting from the south, let’s work our way north on a tour of Chile’s 20 best tourist destinations.

1. isla magdalena.

Got a thing for penguins? Then look no further than Isla Magdalena, located just off the coast of Punta Arenas. Hundreds of the cute little critters can be seen up close and personal as they waddle around and huddle up together.

Isla Magdalena, Chile

A penguin in Isla Magdalena| © Jose Luis Hidalgo R. / Flickr

2. Torres del Paine

3. Villa O'Higgins to Argentina

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5. Carretera Austral

A very long stretch of isolated gravel road, cruising down the Carretera Austral is the quintessential off-the-beaten-track experience. There are heaps of national parks, hiking trails and campsites to stop off at along the way.

Carretera Austral, Chile

Ruta 7, Carretera Austral, Hornopirén. | © Fernando Valenzuela / Flickr

It seems to rain every day on this mystical green island in northern Patagonia. But don’t worry because there are plenty of amazing UNESCO churches and exciting boating expeditions to make up for it.

Chiloé, Los Lagos Region, Chile

Isla Mechuque, Chiloé | © Tetraigofotos / Flickr

7. Easter Island

Just a few thousand miles offshore lies one of the world’s most isolated inhabited islands. Easter Island is most famous for its mysterious Moai statues , but it’s got plenty of great scenery and fascinating indigenous culture as well.

Easter Island, Valparaiso Region, Chile

Moai statues on Easter Island | © myeviajes / Pixabay

8. Puerto Varas

A charming little German settlement with a distinctly European feel, Puerto Varas is set around a beautiful lake and has numerous nearby waterfalls, volcanoes, and forests to explore.

Puerto Varas, Los Lagos Region, Chile

Puerto Varas | © Murray Foubister / Flickr

9. Valdivia

This quaint little student town boasts stunning natural surroundings, a vibrant cultural scene, and a busy fish market right on the lake where sea lions hang out to gobble up any leftover scraps.

Valdivia, Los Ríos Region, Chile

Valdivia | © Pablo Meneses / Flickr

One of the most pleasant towns in the Chilean Lake District, Pucón gets a lot of love for its numerous outdoor adventure activities and the chilled lakeside atmosphere.

Pucón, Araucania, Chile

Playa Negra, Pucón, Chile | © Carlos Adampol Galindo / Flickr

11. Volcano Villarica

Those with the energy and bravado should consider scaling Villarica, the mammoth volcano that towers over Pucón. It requires a strenuous eight-hour climb with crampons and ice picks, but the views from the top are so worth it.

Volcano Villarica, Panguipulli, Los Ríos Region, Chile

Villarica | © Omar Burgos / Flickr

12. Santiago

No trip to Chile would be complete without a stopover in the enormous ciudad capital . Peruse some amazing museums , splurge on world-class fine dining , or just enjoy a few drinks with newfound friends in one of South America’s most exciting cities.

Santiago, Santiago Metropolitan Region, Chile

Santiago | © sergom5 / Pixabay

13. Valparaiso

This trendy little seaport town has earned the reputation of being a true bohemian paradise. With jaw-dropping street art adorning almost every wall, Valparaiso is the place to be for hip young millennials.

Valparaiso, Valparaiso Region, Chile

Valparaiso, Chile | © amira_a / Flickr

The wine regions

Most of Chile’s wine is produced within just a few hours’ drive of Santiago. Throughout the region , a huge number of world-class vineyards offer wine tasting tours where a copious amount of vino is liberally dispersed among thirsty travelers. Salud!

14. La Serena

Heading north of the capital now, and the first place worth stopping is the pleasant seaside town of La Serena. Head for nearby Islas Damas to hike, swim or snorkel among adorable penguins and sea lions.

La Serena, Coquimbo Region, Chile

Islas Damas | © Gernot Ruthofer / Flickr

15. Elqui Valley

A few hours inland from La Serena lies the tranquil Elqui Valley, Chile’s major pisco -producing region. Apart from indulging in the local produce, there are valleys to explore and some spectacular stargazing opportunities on offer.

Elqui Valley, Chile

Elqui Valley | © Leonora (Ellie) Enking / Flickr

16. San Pedro de Atacama

It’s a long way north to San Pedro de Atacama, a small town in the middle of the desert that serves as the main tourism hub for this remarkable region . Visit steaming hot geysers, bizarre rock formations, and high altitude lagoons surrounded by snow-capped volcanoes.

San Pedro de Atacama, Coquimbo, Región de Coquimbo, Chile

San Pedro de Atacama | © poLiMetralleta / Pixabay

17. Chuquicamata

Go on a tour of Chuquicamata, one of the world’s biggest open-pit copper mines. The free guided tour (these people make so much money that they don’t bother to charge) lasts several hours and provides a fascinating insight into the scale of this lucrative industry.

Chuquicamata, Calama, Antofagasta Region, Chile

Chuquicamata copper mine, Calama, Chile | © Peter Collins / Flickr

18. Iquique

Fancy a beach break? Then check out Chile’s most happening seaside resort, which is brimming with revelers during holiday periods. For something different, the nearby ghost towns of Humberstone and Santa Laura give an intriguing insight into what life was like back in the 19th century.

Iquique, Tarapacá Region, Chile

Humberstone | © Tefy fd / WikiCommons

The end of the road, or the beginning of your coming from Peru, Arica has a pleasant surfable beach, some lovely colonial architecture, and a great mirador with a war museum that overlooks the coast.

Arica, Arica y Parinacota Region, Chile

Arica | © Capablazab / WikiCommons

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The Best Places to Visit in Chile – a Full Chile Itinerary

• December 8, 2021 May 12, 2022

Welcome to the longest country in the world. Blocked in the east by the towering Andes and in the west by the Pacific Ocean, Chile has incredibly diverse landscapes and lots of historic cities. On this basis, here are the best places to visit in Chile.

Table of Contents

Welcome to Chile: the Longest Country in the World

For at least 5,000 years, indigenous tribes inhabited the area of modern-day Chile. The Mapuche were the largest tribe, and they survived for millennia with fishing, hunting, gathering, and farming.  

Today, the country stretches from Arica on the Peruvian border to the southernmost tip of Patagonia, forming a landmass of over 4,200km (~2,610 miles). As such, Chile is officially the longest country in the world. 

The Spanish Conquest began in 1537 when Diego de Almagro set foot into modern-day Chile. The Europeans established several colonies until the Chilean War of Independence (1810-1818).

After Chile’s independence, the country steadily developed thanks to agriculture, mining, and European immigration. In the 20th century, Chile became the world’s largest copper producer, a rank it still holds today.

Between 1973 and 1990, Chile suffered under the brutal dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet, and many wounds of this period remain unhealed. 

After 1990, Chile witnessed an economic boom, and in the 21st century, it’s the wealthiest country in South America in terms of GDP per capita. 

When it comes to your Chile itinerary, natural beauty is abundant, and you’ll find many different climates. Thanks to its length, Chile offers every type of landscape, hence why it’s one of my favorite countries in the world. 

Based on multiple trips, here are my top places to visit in Chile – ordered from north to south. 

The Best Places to Visit in Chile 

Chile might seem small on a map due to its narrow shape, but it’s actually a massive country. One trip won’t suffice to see much of Chile, but a two to three week-itinerary will give you a taste of this fascinating country. 

The following are the 20 best places to visit in Chile – enumerated from north to south.

Arica is Chile’s northernmost city and used to be part of Peru. The Chileans won the city in the War of the Pacific (1879-1884), and i ts status remained disputed until 1929. 

The town is known as Chile’s “city of eternal spring” thanks to its pleasant climate all year long. Better still, Arica has a picturesque core with a colonial cathedral and a customs building designed by Gustave Eifel. 

The 150k-inhabitants city sits in the driest region in the world, the Atacama Desert. As such, it almost never rains . Arica also has a few beaches, and it’s an excellent base for day trips to the nearby Lauca National Park and Inca settlements.

Atacama Beaches – Iquique

Iquique is one of the primary ports in northern Chile. It’s also close to many beaches and other natural sights. 

The dunes overlooking the city provide excellent sandboarding opportunities, and the area is also a popular spot for paragliding and skydiving. 

Many Chileans from the south and the center spend their winters in this area, enjoying the warm year-round climate.

Atacama Desert – San Pedro de Atacama, The Valley of the Moon & Calama

San Pedro de Atacama sits on an oasis inside the arid Puna de Atacama highlands. 

You’ll find one of Chile’s best archaeological museums here, the R. P. Gustavo Le Paige Museum. The institution hosts an extensive collection of artifacts from the region.

If you are interested in native culture, this is the place to go. San Pedro de Atacama is also an excellent base to explore the various ruins and desert landscapes nearby.

In addition to that, San Pedro is the best place to start a day trip to the Valley of the Moon, one of the Atacama Desert’s most unique natural sights. 

Located around eight km from San Pedro, the Valle de la Luna has otherworldly sand and stone formations.

Finally, for people who don’t like rain, Calama is the place to go. With an average yearly precipitation of just 5 mm (0.2in), the 140k-inhabitants-city is one of the driest inhabited places on the planet. 

The surroundings of Calama are jaw-dropping, with breathtaking desert landscapes – and little to no life at all. 

Laguna Miscanti

On the border with Bolivia lies the staggering Laguna Miscanti. The unique feat of nature features a rare lake between the monotonous yet mesmerizing desert landscapes. 

Aside from the lagoon itself, the flamingos and guanaco llamas populating the area offer a stunning natural spectacle. 

Pro-tip for the Atacama Desert: You can combine all the activities mentioned in 3 & 4 by staying in San Pedro de Atacama and going on day trips.

La Serena is a 200k-inhabitants coastal city with a charming colonial core. 

The protected buildings offer a pleasant contrast to the modern high-rises that characterize most larger Chilean cities. 

Located in Chile’s northernmost wine region, the town also has a municipal beach.  

Finally, La Serena is a highly authentic spot. As such, you won’t see many foreigners as tourism caters more to local holidaymakers.

One of the Largest Swimming Pools in the World – San Alfonso del Mar

The resort of San Alfonso del Mar boasts the formerly largest swimming pool in the world.

The pool has an area of 190 acres and is filled with over 250 million liters of water. If you’re into Guinness World Record locations, this is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Chile. 

Situated 100km west of Santiago, San Alfonso del Mar is the ideal destination in summer and a perfect retreat for a romantic weekend on the Pacific Coast, with a completely outrageous pool.

Ski Resorts

Chile has several modern ski resorts in the Andes. Be aware that most of them cater to an upscale crowd. 

You’ll find some of the best places to visit in Chile for skiers close to the capital of Santiago. These include El Colorado and Portillo. Both offer excellent slopes, and Portillo claims the title of “best ski resort in Chile,” according to Powderhounds .

Valparaíso & Viña del Mar

The colorful town of Valparaíso is famous for its colonial houses and its high density of street art. 

The old port town is Chile’s second-largest city and home to the Chilean Congress. 

Valpo (as Chileans call it) also has the highest number of funiculars in the world (26). Some of them only decorate the cityscape, while others are vital modes of transport. Aside from that, the hilltop observatories offer stunning views over the Pacific Ocean.

Viña del Mar is Chile’s most sought-after beach resort, thanks to its numerous luxury hotels and condominiums. Aside from beaches, Viña del Mar also boats a small colonial castle.

Santiago is Chile’s vibrant and multifaceted capital. Home to over 7 million people, Santiago offers a plethora of cultural institutions and fantastic food and nightlife options. 

The metropolis is also home to Chile’s busiest airport. As such, it’s the primary hub of the country. Santiago moreover boasts stunning modern architecture in addition to its colonial core.

Cajón del Maipo

The Cajón del Maipo is a majestic natural sight situated only a short drive away from the hustle and bustle of the capital city. 

The site features shimmering lakes nestled between striking mountains. Among the best places to visit in Chile, it provides a relaxing escape from the concrete jungle of Santiago.

The Highest Mountain in the Americas – Aconcagua with a Trip to Mendoza, Argentina

Cerro Aconcagua is the highest mountain in the Americas. With its height of 6,960m (22,837ft), it’s also the tallest peak outside of Asia. 

The mountain itself stands in Argentina, but only 15km from the Chilean border. As such, you can explore Aconcagua on your Chile itinerary. 

The first step is to hop on a bus from Santiago to Mendoza, Argentina. The journey takes around 8 hours, depending on the weather conditions. It isn’t that far, but the route through the Andes slows it down. The easier but more expensive option is to take a plane.

Several treks are available for different levels of mountaineering skills.

Aconcagua is, however, nothing for amateurs. Most tours recommend having summited at least one similar mountain before. The base treks offer less challenging expeditions.

Chillán & Termas de Chillán

The city of Chillán is the hub of the Bío Bío region and one of the country’s agricultural hotspots. 

The Mediterranean climate makes it a pleasant place to visit, and the city is also home to a large Cathedral and a well-known open-air market. 

About 1h away is the ski resort of Termas de Chillán. You’ll find Chile’s best thermal baths as well as top-notch slopes here. 

The ski town is home to three hotels, offering ideal retreats for skiing and relaxing in the hot springs.

Concepción is Chile’s third-largest city and home to several of the country’s best-ranked universities. 

In 2010, a devastating earthquake hit Concepción. Many buildings didn’t survive, but the city has nowadays recovered. As such, it’s reasserting itself as the cultural and academic center of the region. 

Concepción is today Chile’s second commercial hub thanks to its markets where you can savor the best Chilean fish and ceviche .

Conguillío National Park

Conguillío is one of the country’s most underrated national parks. 

Located in the Araucanía region (also known as region IX), the park is home to Llaima Volcano, several lakes, and mountains.

The park is an adventurer’s heaven and an excellent place to immerse yourself in nature. The nearest larger city is Curacautín, where you can base yourself to explore the surrounding wilderness.

Chilean Lake District (Region de Los Lagos)

The Chilean Lake District (Region de Los Lagos) is one of South America’s lesser-visited natural wonders.

The lakes sit in the Andean foothills and offer excellent canoeing, sailing, and other outdoor activities. The area is also known as the Seven Lakes (although there are more). 

The most beautiful towns in the area are Pucón, Puerto Varas, and Puerto Montt. All offer charming lakeside walks and breathtaking views. If you’re looking for cities in Chile to visit, these three are undoubtedly worth it.  

Among the best places to go in Chile is also the island of Chiloé. Known as the “original home of the potato” (a title disputed with Peru), it’s famous for its houses built on wooden pontoons on the water. 

Calbuco & Osorno Volcanoes

Out of Chile’s 500+ active volcanoes, four of the largest are in the Lake District.  

The most impressive volcanoes in the area are Calbuco and Osorno, the “Fuji of South America.” 

The volcanic background makes this one of the most beautiful places in Chile and a must on your itinerary. 

Puerto Natales – Torres del Paine & Other Locations in Patagonia

The small city of Puerto Natales is the main gateway to the awe-inspiring Torres del Paine National Park. 

Chileans call this park “la Octava Maravilla del Mundo” (the 8 th wonder of the world), and it’s one of the most popular places to go in Chile for nature enthusiasts. The park offers an abundance of mountains, lakes, deserts, and wildlife. As such, you can easily spend a few days in it. 

In short, it’s one of the must-see places in Chile if you make your way down south.

Punta Arenas – Estrecho Magallanes (Strait of Magellan)

Legendary explorer Ferdinand Magellan (Fernando Magallanes) circumnavigated the globe and discovered the straight that leads through southern Patagonia. 

The strait today bears his name, and the settlers built the city of Punta Arenas on its shores. 

Punta Arenas was founded in 1848 as a settlement to send convicts away but has since evolved into a trade hub in southern Patagonia. Most of the city’s residents are of European descent due to immigration and displacement. 

History aside, Punta Arenas offers several museums and a variety of nature-related activities.

In this context, the Reserva Forestal de Magallanes has some stunning hiking routes overlooking the city and the Magellan Strait. 

Among the best cities to visit in Chile, Punta Arenas is a suitable base to explore Patagonia.

Tierra del Fuego

When you leave the southernmost tip of South America to venture into even more southern territories, you reach the Land of Fire. 

Divided between Chile and Argentina, about 500 kilometers separate Tierra del Fuego and Antarctica. 

You can visit the island on a day trip, or you can overnight in one of the small towns in the Land of Fire.

On the Chilean side, Porvenir and Puerto Williams are the island’s primary settlements and offer a small number of accommodation options. 

The Argentinian side is home to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world.

Pro-tip for Patagonia: you can combine 17, 18, and 19 by staying in Punta Arenas. From here, you can go on day trips to Torres del Paine (about three hours to the north by van/car) and Tierra del Fuego (about two hours by boat through the Magellan Strait). 

All three are worth more than a day trip. However, if you only have a few days in Patagonia, it’s best to use Punta Arenas as a base. There are many tour operators in the city center or online. 

If you only want to see Torres del Paine (my favorite national park in all of South America), stay in Puerto Natales.

Isla de Pascua (Easter Island)

Easter Island isn’t located south of Tierra del Fuego but in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. 

The Isla de Pascua sits over 3,000km west of mainland Chile. It’s so far away from anything that it’s one of the most remote inhabited islands in the world. 

The island is famous for the stunning Moai statues built by the natives.

Fun fact, the statues are the reason for the island’s lack of trees. The indigenous islanders cut down most of the trees to build sleds. They then used these sleds to transport the rocks for the statues. 

You can reach Easter Island by plane from Santiago. Due to the island’s remote location, airfares run at steep prices, and in truth, there isn’t too much to see on the Isla de Pascua .

Best Places to Visit in Chile: Know Before You Go

Chile is a Spanish-speaking country, and English levels are low. As such, it’s highly recommendable to learn some basic Spanish before embarking on your Chile itinerary. Chilean Spanish is quite unique compared to other countries in South America, so be prepared. 

Safety in Chile

Chile is one of the safest countries in South America , but it’s still South America. 

Always guard your belonging and be aware of your surroundings. 

Aside from that, don’t wander into the bad barrios of Santiago and Valparaíso. In short, common sense should largely suffice to stay safe in Chile.

In 2019, there were lots of demonstrations, widespread looting, and also small-scale violence. Most of the protests have since calmed down, but keep an eye out for them.

Prices and Infrastructure

Chile is more expensive than all of its neighbors. The prices are only comparable to Uruguay . As such, an ultra-low backpacker budget might not cut it, so rethink that 50 USD per day threshold. 

Chile has 17 commercial airports and a highly developed road network. 

Latam is the largest airline, and Sky Airlines is the low-cost carrier. 

Buses go anywhere at any time. Better still, the first-class services offer some of the most comfortable bus journeys in South America. Turbus and Pullman are the most popular companies.

The Best Time to go to Chile

Chile has many different climates, but the high season is between November and February. These months are best for Patagonia as the winter months are rainy. In that same vein, you’ll have sunny weather in Santiago and the beach towns during these months. 

Ideas for Your Chile Itinerary 

If you have two weeks or less in Chile, it’s best to focus on the North or the South because of the distances. 

Two-Week Itinerary Focusing on the South 

• Day 1-3: Santiago
• Day 4-5: Valparaíso
• Day 6: Viña del Mar
• Day 7: Flight to Puerto Montt, Puerto Montt
• Day 8-10: Lake District
• Day 11: Flight to Punta Arenas, Punta Arenas
• Day 12-13: Torres del Paine, Puerto Natales
• Day 14: Flight back to Santiago 

This first idea focuses on the southern part and its otherworldly lakes, glaciers, and mountains. If you’re more into deserts and hot weather, consider the second Chile itinerary. 

Two-Week Itinerary Focusing on the North

• Day 1-3: Santiago 
• Day 4-5: Viña del mar and Valparaíso
• Day 6-7: La Serena
• Day 8-11: San Pedro de Atacama with day trips
• Day 12-13: Iquique or Arica
• Day 14: Flight back to Santiago

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10 Best Places to Visit in Chile

This Patagonian country is a rich tapestry of mountain and plain, jungle and ocean. Chile’s unusual long shape has given it a varied climate with one of the world’s driest desert in the north, while its southern tip is home to cold-weather creatures like penguins. Chile is one of the closest nations, along with Argentina and New Zealand, to Antarctica.

The South has a strong history of visiting explorers, as everyone who sailed around the world before the Panama Canal was built needed to pass its tip. The country also has a well-known wine region that attracts many oenophiles each year. Here is a look at some of the best places to visit in Chile :

10. La Serena [SEE MAP]

This northern Chilean town is the second oldest in the nation. It boasts a city full of lovely architecture and a warm golden beach. La Serena has a reputation as an intellectual town, and has a number of great sights that fit this description, like an archaeological museum and astronomical observatory.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love to bike through the Elqui Valley, swim, snorkel, dive and/or hike through Isla Damas, and visit the national park at Fray Jorge.

9. Santiago [SEE MAP]

The capital city is the political and cultural heart of Chile. From the high mountain views of the Cerro San Cristobal Park to the secluded history of poet Pablo Neruda’s writing retreat, there is much to see in Santiago .

Top picks include skiing Valle Nevado or Portillo, wine tasting at Vina Aquitania, or visits to one of several top museums like Museo Chile de Arte Precolumbio or Museo de la Moda. For those who don’t want to spend all of their time in the city, there are amazing hiking opportunities like the steep slopes of Cajon de Maipo.

8. Chiloe Island [SEE MAP]

Chiloé Island is the largest island of the Chiloé Archipelago in the Los Lagos Region and the second-largest island in South America after Tierra del Fuego. In part because of its physical isolation from the rest of Chile, Chiloé has a very special architecture and local culture.

The Spanish who arrived in the 16th century, and Jesuit missionaries who followed, constructed hundreds of unique wooden churches in an attempt to bring Christianity to the archipelago. The result was a mixing of Catholicism and indigenous Chilean beliefs.

7. Iquique [SEE MAP]

This beautiful beach and casino town offers a vibrant boardwalk and gorgeous 19th century Georgian architecture like the Aztoreca Palace. Iquique is the Monte Carlo of Chile, and has much to offer for anyone who loves free-spirited fun.

During the day, guests here can participate in world-famous surfing waves, paraglide or sand-board on the golden coast. A stroll down the wooden sidewalks of the historic mining town, or the cobbled Baquedano street, gives a look into an older economic boom time. Finally, the spectacular nightlife offers glitzy gambling, excellent cuisine, and shopping in the duty-free district.

6. Chilean Fjords [SEE MAP]

The southern coast of Chile presents a large number of fjords and channels that provide the only access to this part of Patagonia. Sailing through this region can be an unforgettable experience.

Most of the trips start from Puerto Montt and travel towards Carretera Austral, Laguna San Rafael and Puerto Natales. The journey takes visitors through days of uninhabited fjords, close encounter with glaciers and views of orange sunsets over the Pacific. To the south, the channels become narrower. Along the way, travelers might spot whales, many birds and sea lions.

5. Valparaiso [SEE MAP]

This hard-working economic port town on the coast of Central Chile was loved by the poet Pablo Neruda for its beautiful chaos. It boasts some of the first urban innovations in Latin America, like the first volunteer fire department.

In addition to its working class roots, Valparaiso has a reputation for an underground street art movement. Instead of specific tourist attractions , Valparaiso is best known for its brightly colored houses, a vibrant nightlife and beautiful seaside views.

4. Chilean Lake District [SEE MAP]

This long, lush volcanic valley region stretches from Puerto Montt in the South to Temuco in the North. It is home to dense forests, crystal-clear lakes, and snowcapped volcanoes. Before the introduction of Europeans, the lake district was thickly forested, and inhabited by the Mapuche, one of the few South American tribes to avoid being swallowed into the Incan nations.

Today, there are still some beautiful untouched lands, like Los Alerces National Park, known as Chile’s Yosemite. Mountains here are very young, only two thousand years old, which makes them higher and more jagged than anything in North America, and well worth the trip all by themselves.

3. San Pedro de Atacama [SEE MAP]

Set high on a plateau, San Pedro de Atacama lies in the Antofagasta Region of Chile, surrounded by countless mountains, lakes, and rock formations. Due to its awe-inspiring landscapes and scenery, the small town is a very popular destination among Chilean tourists and international visitors alike and can be found not far from the Bolivian border.

While San Pedro is pleasant and picturesque to visit, with a laidback vibe and lively cafes, most people just use it as a base from which to explore the surrounding area . From the center of town, you can easily arrange to visit the incredible Atacama Desert or any one of the impressive pre-Columbian archaeological sites and ruins that lie nearby.

Among the region’s many highlights are the otherworldly Valle de la Luna which looks very lunar-like in appearance and the El Tatio Geysers which spurt up so high into the air. In addition to this, there are also the pink flamingos at Laguna Chaxa to visit as well as the ancient petroglyphs at rainbow valley. The nightlife here is a little different- the big draw is star tours, as it is one of the darkest places in the world, and an opportunity to see the night sky undiluted.

2. Torres del Paine [SEE MAP]

The “towers of blue” national park constitutes a glaciated region on the Southern tip of Chile. Three large pillars in the park give it its name, and it is also home to a number of “horns”, or other mountains, and glaciated lakes. Exploration through this park can be done via mini van tours, multi-day treks, or catamaran trips.

There are a few services who will also offer horseback tours to some of the sites. Much of the park is foot-only, and there are a number of excellent guide companies who can help carry gear and cook meals on five to seven day treks.

1. Easter Island [SEE MAP]

Located more than 3,500 km (2,000 miles) form central Chile, Easter Island continues to be one of the world’s great mysteries. This treeless island of hundreds of giant, hollow-eyed statues carved by its Polynesian visitors is an eerie yet beautiful example of human artistry and achievement.

Besides visiting these statues from a respectful distance to avoid immense fines and hiking the rocky plains, guests here can enjoy two white sand beaches with off-coast diving, an extinct cinder cone, and a number of native-run tours that offer views of things that are unique and well worth it.

Map of Places to Visit in Chile

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Reader interactions.

December 9, 2019 at 7:40 am

I traveled from Valparaiso, Vina and Santiago right up to Arica. This was 20 years ago before the influx of tourists. I love Chile and will return one day.

April 14, 2015 at 7:07 pm

I looooved Chiloé Island it made me feel so relaxed walking around it.

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11 Best Places to Visit in Chile

I have been fortunate to have made many trips to the beautiful country of Chile. In the process, I compiled a list of what I personally think are the best places to visit in Chile.

I first traveled to Chile to explore the history behind José de San Martín, the Argentine General who liberated South America from Spanish Rule in the early 1800’s. My journey took me from Santiago to the Andes Mountains on the border of Argentina.

On this trip, I fell in love with this South American country. Chile’s incredibly diverse landscape and rich history invites opportunities for legendary adventures.

From the Andean Plateau in the north, to the glacial magnificence of the mountains in Patagonia, here are my recommendations for the Top 11 Places to Visit in Chile :

1. Easter Island

Located in the Polynesian Islands in the Pacific, the famed and mystical Easter Island holds a special interest for all adventurers. This remote island, known as Rapa Nui by the indigenous people, is home to beautiful natural scenery and a fascinatingly deep, cultural history.

Take in the mysterious aura as you hike through national parks fixating on the unmistakable stone statues that have given this island prominence. Known as moai, these statues are a must-see and an excellent introduction to the culture of Rapa Nui.

As you immerse yourself into the cultural identity of the island through dances, shows, and food, explore the island’s vast network of caves, volcanoes, pink sand beaches, and grasslands. Taking an Easter Island tour is a must for any adventurers who dream of uncovering the secrets behind the world’s most mysterious destinations!

2. Atacama Desert

Located west of the Andes in northern Chile lies the Atacama Desert. One of the most extraordinary places on the planet, this vast desert is home to a marvelously unique landscape teeming with life. The Atacama Desert is known for being the driest desert in the world and provides an incredible, Martian-like backdrop for adventurers traveling throughout the area. While hiking through the dry Atacama desert climate, the landscape’s diverse beauty, from salt flats and lagoons to geysers and volcanoes, will leave you in awe.

No trip to the Atacama desert is complete without a visit to San Pedro de Atacama. This Chilean town is situated at an elevation of roughly 8,000 feet (2,440 meters) and exhibits the everlasting traditions of Andean culture.

After dark, I highly recommend a visit to one of northern Chile’s famed observatories to witness millions of stars illuminate the sky. For those in search of nature’s beauty, a trip to the Atacama Desert is an absolute must.

3. Elqui Valley

The long, thin Elqui Valley carves a squiggle out of the dusty mountains at the very southern end of the Atacama Desert. It’s perhaps best known as one of Chile’s foremost winemaking regions. Elqui Valley is packed with vineyards, and they say there’s the perfect blend of chalky soil and sunny-cool climate for producing tasty Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc, and Carmenere varieties. 

More recently, the area blazed a trail when it was dubbed the world’s very first International Dark Sky Sanctuary back in 2015. That paved the way for stacks of international investment from space agencies and scientific institutes, which is why you can now spot futuristic telescopes dotting the mountaintops, not to mention see the Milky Way in all its glory once the sun has set!

On a more general level, the Elqui Valley is downright beautiful. At points, it looks like something plucked out of the Karakoram, with cinnamon-brown ridges enfolding gurgling rivers. At other places, it’s a country idyll, unfolding in a mosaic of plum orchards, vineyards, and grassy farm fields.

4. La Serena

Founded by the conquistadors sometime between 1543 and 1544, La Serena reigns as the second-oldest city in the country and serves as the capital of the Coquimbo region in northern Chile. It hugs the edge of this region, where the swells of the Pacific Ocean bend to caress the dry peaks of the southern Atacama Desert. That makes for a pretty nice setting, with long, scything runs of golden sand on offer just steps from the downtown.

The peak of the summer is La Serena’s moment to shine. Thousands of domestic travelers flock in to cool off on the breezy shores, hit the scuba meccas of the Isla Damas, and sip pisco sours on the promenade. This is also the gateway to the aforementioned Elqui Valley, an elongated and fertile stretch of the Atacama that’s celebrated for its tasty wines and uber-clear night skies. 

5. Santiago

Santiago is one of my favorite cities in the world. In the heart of central Chile, this metropolitan capital, fuses historical colonialism with the liveliness of a modern city. I have had the good fortune of visiting Santiago many times over the years. As a lover of history and adventure, the city has everything I could ask for. Colonized in the mid-1500s by Spanish conquistadors, the city shows its age through various architectural styles.

As you would expect from a strongly cultured metropolis, Santiago has an outstanding array of restaurants and excellent nightlife. With many parks, museums, and sporting and cultural activities, Santiago will keep you busy. Located just a quick trip from the towering Andes Mountains which rise over the city and the Pacific Ocean, Santiago is perfect for every adventurer.

6. Valparaíso

Located on the coast in central Chile, Valparaíso is next on the list and a special destination, in my opinion. Known as “The Jewel of the Pacific,” Valparaíso is a hilly port city.

An eclectic stop for travelers, the city is in the middle of an interesting transformation. Once a powerful seaport, Valparaíso has become an architectural marvel due to its colorful buildings, varying styles, and maze-like layout upon the surrounding hills. While here, I recommend riding the funiculars and sampling the local cuisine, before heading to beautiful beaches nearby, such as Viña del Mar or Reñaca.

Given the central location of Santiago and Valparaíso to both the coast and the mountains, many adventurous activities exist just outside the city walls. On the coast, numerous water activities are available such as scuba diving and kayaking. In the Andes Mountains, I’d recommend a visit to some of the best ski resorts South America has to offer – Portillo Ski Resort is a popular spot for visitors. For a more relaxed excursion, check out of the vineyards of the Casablanca Valley for world-class Chilean wine!

7. Southern Chile

As we work our way down this list, we are effectively moving down the slender coast of Chile. Unsurprisingly, the breathtaking array of Chile’s natural beauty continues in its southern region.

One of my most beloved locations, this geographic locale boasts enormous volcanoes and gorgeous lakes and rivers. This region’s astonishing landscapes is home to the Mapuche culture. An integral part of the region, the Mapuche offer a unique culture with outstanding food that is not to be missed.

In my opinion, southern Chile is an exceptional place for the adventurous soul. While here, you’ll have the opportunity to ski some of the best mountains in the world, fish in the pristine rivers and lakes, relax in the natural spas, or hike the rugged terrain in the nature reserves. For more adventurous activities, visit the city Pucón and try your hand at whitewater rafting, or canyoning, a favorite among visitors.

8. Lake District

Gleaming waters shimmer like the surface of a mirror, framed by dashes of pine forest and lush pastures peppered with cow herds. In the background, snow-mantled volcanoes – Volcán Mocho-Choshuenco and Volcán Villarrica – soar to the clouds, marking the phalanx of rock that is the mighty chain of the Andes. Welcome to the Chilean Lake District, a 200-mile (322-kilometer) stretch of Southern Chile that’s pure idyll from start to finish.

This is a land of no-holds-barred outdoors adventure. There’s a whopping seven national parks to get through. That could mean hikes amid the alien-like monkey puzzle trees of the Huerquehue National Park. It could mean swimming in the steaming hot springs and gurgling waterfalls of the Puyehue National Park. Or it could mean conquering the lava slopes of the mighty Osorno Volcano (Volcán Osorno) within the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park.

The Lake District is usually accessed from either the regional capital of Puerto Montt or the so-called City of Roses, Puerto Varas. These days, both exhibit a unique blend of German and Latin American culture. But the rich folklore heritage of the indigenous Mapuche people also lives on, particularly amid the hills and villages of the La Araucanía region.

9. Chiloé Island

The Isla Grande de Chiloé is a fragment of the Chilean Lake District that’s sort of been chewed off the side of South America and surrounded by the Pacific. It may as well be a country unto itself, though, such is the stark difference in the cultures and the cuisines and the landscapes here.

The people of Chiloé are fiercely independent in their way of life. They still rely on the bounty of the sea and traditional fishing methods to get by. They follow a unique blend of Huilliche Indian mysticism and devout Roman Catholicism – as evidenced by the UNESCO-tagged wooden churches that pepper the island, each raised by missionaries in the 17 th century.

Most travelers plan a trip to the towns of either Castro or Ancud, to witness the ramshackle stilted fishing cabins painted in bold oranges and blues above the water. I’d also recommend adding in trips to see the squawking Puñihuil Penguin colony on the north shore (by boat) and intrepid hikes through the Chiloé National Park, home to one of the last remaining tracts of old-growth Valdivian rainforest.

10. Patagonia

Patagonia is one of the most sought after adventure destinations on the planet and is known for its absurdly beautiful landscape. The mountains in Patagonia are some of the most impressive in the world. Not to mention, Patagonia offers a homogenous blend of lakes, lagoons, forests, steppes, fjords, and glaciers. A world apart, Patagonia remains exotic and seemingly untouched, as spectacular wildlife, such as condors, red foxes, and pumas, inhabit this pristine environment.

While exploring the unspoiled terrain, experience the gaucho lifestyle and visit the pioneer towns dotted throughout the region. As you continue to take in the surrounding beauty of the mountains, a trip to Patagonia is not complete without a stop at Torres del Paine National Park.

For trekkers and hikers alike, this once-in-a-lifetime adventure will carry you deep into the wilderness to experience waterfalls, mountains, glaciers, and stunning views in the Southern Ice Fields. Long days spent walking in the national park will surely be worth it.

11. Torres del Paine

Most travelers gasp in awe the first time they lay eyes on the Torres del Paine. The centerpiece of an incredible national park on the Chile-Argentine border, Torres del Paine is a trio of spear-like summits forged by wind-battered, glacier-carved granite. 

The hike to see them is one of the highlights of the legendary W Trek tour – one of the most popular treks in the world. It’ll whisk you up past Refugio Chileno, a long-lost cabin deep in the Andes, to a mirador lookout point that showcases a turquoise glacier lake and the jagged summits in the distance.

The thing is, Torres del Paine is just one part of the reserve. There’s a whole wonderworld of other unforgettable things to see within. They include the twisted tops of Los Cuernos massif, the calving ice walls of Grey Glacier, and the secret wildflower meadows of the French Valley (Valle del Francés). 

The aforementioned W Trek links them all up over the course of four or five days of rugged hiking, which is precisely why it’s now considered one of the most stunning treks on the whole planet. And if you dare to push further south on the continent, navigating the sea fjord and crossing the Strait of Magellan will amaze even the most seasoned adventurer.

I hope you enjoyed my blog on the Top 11 Places to Visit in Chile . The next time you’re planning an getaway, consider Chile! It is one of the best destinations in the world for lovers of history and adventure. And if you need help making arrangements, keep The Explorer’s Passage (an industry award-winning premier adventure travel company) in mind. My team of experts is dedicated to making your travels smooth and unforgettable.

If you’re ready to explore one of the stunning destinations above (or any other world-class adventures globally), CONTACT US to learn more. Or if you’ve already been to Chile and have some favorite sites, we’d also love to hear about them. Just shoot us an email at [email protected] . 

I look forward to seeing you on the trail.

Jeff Bonaldi Founder & CEO The Explorer’s Passage

About Jeff Bonaldi

Jeff Bonaldi is the Founder and CEO of The Explorer’s Passage, a premier adventure travel company. His mission is to provide travelers with the opportunity to transform their lives and the planet through the power of adventure.

Learn more about Jeff’s story and his company HERE .

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Chile Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Chile travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Once you start to read about Chile, you’ll quickly realize why it’s one of the top destinations for travelers in South America.

From its incredible natural wonders to its vibrant culture to its delicious cuisine, Chile has so much to offer travelers of all kinds. Whether you’re strolling through cities like Santiago and Valparaiso or trekking the Andes Mountains and glaciers of Patagonia, you are sure to have an amazing time in Chile.

If you’re planning a trip to Latin America, this country on the Pacific coast should be high on your list of places to visit.

Chile’s natural wonders are considered its main attractions, drawing in tourists from around the world ready to see these incredible sights.

The country is home to 41 national parks, making up 20% of the country’s territory and ranging from snow-peaked mountains to remote seaside landscapes.

One of the country’s top parks is Torres del Paine National Park, located in Patagonia. Known for its jagged, snowy mountains, turquoise waters, and incredible glaciers, you’ll find some truly one-of-a-kind sights here.

Up north in the Atacama Desert , you’ll find Los Flamencos National Reserve with spectacular desert views, cool lagoons and, of course, herds of colorful flamingos.

Further south, you can hang out in the Chilean Lake District, a beautiful mountainous region often likened to those found in Switzerland and Germany. Here you’ll find Vicente Perez Rosales National Park, Chile’s oldest park, featuring gorgeous waterfalls, volcano views, and a temperate rainforest.

Chile’s amazing scenery and well-maintained roads make it the perfect country for road tripping. If you’re feeling truly adventurous, rent a car and drive the Carretera Austral, the country’s most famous highway.

This scenic route through Patagonia stretches over 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) and features lush mountain views and impossibly fresh air. There are tons of great places to stop along the way, including the Puyuhuapi Hot Springs, Queulat National Park, and more.

Sticking to public transport? Consider taking a bus through the Andes Mountains into Argentina. You’ll enjoy amazing scenic views throughout the trip and tickets cost as little as $20 per person one way, making it a great way to see the country on a budget.

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Chile in South America.

Note: This ultimate guide to Chile travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Use this Chile travel map to begin planning your trip to this incredible country!

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

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Traveling In South America

These guides share Chile travel advice as well as tips for exploring South America in general!

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Best Chile Tours

Explore local culture with a Chilean tour guide through these unique excursions:

• Valparaíso Region Tour – Viña del Mar from Santiago
• Half Day Sailing Magdlena Island Penguin Colony Punta Arenas October to March from Magallanes
• 5-Day Torres del Paine W Trek from Puerto Natales
• Private Easter Island Full-Day Tour
• Cajón del Maipo and Embalse el Yeso from Santiago
• Full-Day Wine Tour from Santiago with Sommelier Guide
• Inca Lagoon in Portillo Andes Mountains – Arqueologic Park & Wine Tasting from Santiago
• Kayaking in Huerquehue National Park (sunrise / sunset) from Pucon
• Astronomical Tour with Guide and Pick Up to San Pedro de Atacama

Chile Hotels

Click here to browse the best Chile travel hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local rentals !

You can also use this map to search for local stays:

Renting A Car In Chile

Need a rental car for your Chile trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Chile Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a Chile tour. When visiting Chile — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Chile travel itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Chile Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling in Chile .

Q: What are the best places to visit in Chile?

One of the top places to visit in Chile is the country’s capital city of Santiago . This vibrant city in the Andes mountains has tons to offer travelers of all kinds, whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, unique cultural experiences or some culinary exploration.

Santiago’s location in between the mountains and the Pacific coast make it the perfect home base for those looking to do some skiing in Valle Nevado, hiking in Cajon del Maipo, or sunbathing at the beaches Concon; each destination is a short drive or bus ride away from the city!

Art lovers will want to check out the Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, featuring a vast collection of Indigenous art from across Latin America, and the colorful neighborhood of Bellavista, once home to renowned poet Pablo Naruda.

You’ll also find tons of great wineries in the area serving up the bold red varietals for which the country is well-known.

Chilean Patagonia ‘s gorgeous landscapes also attract tons of travelers every year. This area in southern Chile offers tons of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, from hiking glacier-topped mountains to seeing penguins in their natural habitat.

Torres del Paine National Park and Tierra Del Fuego National Park are two of the area’s top attractions and for good reason.

At Torres de Paine , you’ll find breathtaking mountain views while hiking the “W Circuit,” a six-day trek that will test your mettle while taking you to some of the park’s most iconic sights. It’s known as one of the best hiking trails in the world !

And at Tierra Del Fuego National Park, you can hop on the “End of the World Train,” a former prison transport line that offers incredible views, no hiking experience needed.

In northeastern Chile, you’ll find San Pedro de Atacama , an arid desert town with much to explore.

In Mars Valley, or Death Valley, you’ll find incredible desert views and rocky hills that make for one-of-a-kind sunsets. The area is home to tons of hiking trails, but one of the coolest things to try is sandboarding.

The desert’s dry climate gives the sand a powdery feel, so you can fly down the hills just like you do on the ski slopes.

Looking for some R&R? The Atacama Desert is also home to some amazing thermal hot springs where you can rest your bones after your long travels.

The small town of San Pedro de Atacama is also worth checking out itself, with cool mud-brick buildings and lots of shops and cafes to explore.

Q: Is Chile expensive for tourists?

Chile is considered one of the most expensive destinations in South America for tourists. As Chile is one of the most developed countries in South America, things are generally more expensive and prices are comparable to those you’d find in European destinations.

That said, there are many deals to be found in Chile and it’s very possible to travel through the country on a budget.

The average traveler spends about $102 USD per day in Chile on food, transportation, accommodations, activities, and other travel expenses.

Q: What is the best way to travel around Chile?

The bus is generally considered the best way to get around Chile. The country’s long-distance bus routes are known for being comfortable, punctual, and affordable.

Chile’s bus companies also travel to an extensive list of destinations, so you’ll probably be able to get where you need to go — even if it’s a bit off the beaten path.

If you’re traveling overnight, spring for a salon cama or premium bus service with seats that fully recline or fold flat. Breakfast is usually included on these routes and you’ll arrive feeling refreshed after traveling in comfort.

If you’re heading to more remote locations or just want the freedom of traveling on your own schedule, renting a car in Chile may be the way to go.

Chileans are safe drivers and your main safety concerns on the road are stray animals and pedestrians who tend to use the road as a sidewalk.

Do note that Santiago does have vehicular restrictions based on smog levels in an effort to combat air pollution. If you’re visiting the city, you may want to stick to using public transportation to get around.

Q: Is Chile safe for travel?

Chile is one of the safer destinations in South America. Violent and petty crime levels are generally low, although pickpocketing, bag snatching and mugging, do happen in more urban areas.

Remember to stay aware of your surroundings at all times and keep any valuables close to you and out of sight to avoid pickpockets . It’s also best not to flaunt any obvious signs of wealth, particularly if you’re visiting more tourist-heavy areas.

The risk of natural disasters in Chile is a bit higher than in other destinations thanks to its active earthquake zone and volcanoes. Keep an eye on the news for any natural disaster warnings and evacuation notices and brush up on your earthquake safety protocols before your trip so that you’re extra prepared for anything.

Q: What do I need to know before going to Chile?

If you speak Spanish, you might notice that Chile’s version of the language is a bit different than what you’re used to. Every Spanish-speaking country has its own dialect and vocabulary, so some of the phrases and pronunciations you’ll hear may be new to you.

If you’re regularly conversing with locals, you’ll likely adjust to the dialect quickly and may even pick up a few new words.

For non-Spanish speakers, it’s definitely helpful to learn a few phrases in the language before your trip. Only around 10% of Chile’s population can converse in English, so you’ll probably need to know at least a little Spanish to communicate with locals. Plus, learning and using the local language shows respect for a destination’s culture.

As is the case in many Latin American destinations, meals start late in Chile. Most restaurants don’t open for lunch until 1 PM and you may find yourself sitting down for dinner long after sundown. Adjust your schedule accordingly; early risers may want to sleep in a bit to compensate for the late nights.

Looking to travel between Chile and Argentina? You’ll find that the Andes Mountains make this a bit difficult in certain spots. You’ll have to take a boat to travel into Argentina from certain spots in Patagonia like Villa O’Higgins and public transport options between the two countries are nonexistent here.

At the mountain crossings in the north, you’ll find that most buses and cars stick to those on the main highways. Paso de San Francisco is probably the most scenic route, but can take some time to travel. If you’re short on time, consider flying from one country to the other.

Q: How many days should you spend in Chile?

Most experts suggest spending 7 to 10 days in Chile to get a good idea of the country. This length of time will give you enough time to visit some of the country’s top natural wonders, cities, and wineries with ample travel time to get to each destination.

Q: What is the best month to visit Chile?

While the weather in Chile can vary greatly from place to place, October through March (Chile’s summertime) is generally considered the best time to visit. During this time, you’ll find warm and pleasant weather throughout much of the country.

This is also Chile’s peak season for tourism, so you may want to visit in those shoulder months (September through October and March through April) to avoid crowds at major attractions.

If you’re visiting in the peak of summer (December through February), you’ll definitely want to book your accommodations well in advance, as things book up quickly during this time.

Q: Do I need a Chile travel visa?

Visitors from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the European Union do not need a visa to visit Chile.

Visitors from South American states including Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay simply need to show their national ID upon arrival in Chile and do not need a passport to enter the country.

Visitors from Australia do need a visa to enter Chile and can apply for an e-visa online.

It’s recommended to view your country’s Chile International Travel Information page for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit rules and Chile Travel Requirements. You can also contact the Consulate General of Chile.

Q: Where is Chile?

Chile sits along the western seaboard of South America. It shares borders with Peru and Bolivia (north), Argentina (east), and the Pacific Ocean (west).

Q: Are credit cards accepted in Chile?

Credit cards — particularly Visa and Mastercard — are widely accepted around Chile, though it is always wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments and in case of emergency. Note that you’ll often likely spend less when paying cash as many Chilean businesses pass credit card fees onto the customer.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in Chile?

The tap water is safe to drink in most places in Chile outside of San Pedro de Atacama. That being said, it’s always a good idea to double check with your hotel to be safe. Moreover, Chile’s tap water has a high mineral content, so drinking it for long periods of time is not advised.

Q: What is the local currency in Chile?

The local currency in Chile is the Chilean peso.

What would you add to this Chile travel guide?

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Ten places you should not miss in Chile

Chile is a country in South America that stretches more than 4,200km (2600+ miles) from north to south. Hemmed in by the vast Pacific Ocean in the west and the imposing Andes mountains in the east, Chile is a land of diverse landscapes, a rich cultural heritage, and warm-hearted people. From the stunning peaks of the Andes to the otherworldly landscapes of the Atacama Desert and the pristine beauty of Patagonia, there are countless things to do in Chile for every type of traveller. I’ve had the privilege of spending more than a month exploring the country and I was really impressed by the incredible diversity of landscapes, the lovely people and the fantastic food and wines. For those of you thinking of or planning a visit, I’ve listed below ten places to visit in Chile, each offering unique and unforgettable experiences.

Best places to visit in Chile

1. Santiago

As Chile’s capital and largest city, Santiago serves as a perfect starting point for your tour of Chile. Its airport is a major South American hub with connections to North America, Europe and Australia. From here, there are frequent flights to the major towns in Chile.

The city boasts a mix of modern architecture, historical landmarks, and vibrant cultural scenes. I especially loved exploring the bustling neighborhoods of Bellavista and Lastarria. I also recommend visiting the impressive Metropolitan Cathedral , and riding the Santiago cable-car to the iconic San Cristóbal Hill for panoramic views of the city.

2. Valparaíso

Situated on the Pacific coast, Valparaíso is a city renowned for its colourful hillside neighborhoods, artistic spirit, and UNESCO World Heritage status. Valpo , as it’s known locally, is my favourite city in Chile and shouldn’t be missed!

Explore the city’s winding streets adorned with stunning street art , ride its historic funiculars, and immerse yourself in the vibrant bohemian culture that has made Valparaíso a haven for artists and intellectuals. It’s a city of many hills so be prepared to climb lots of stairs and don’t miss taking the funiculars.

3. Atacama Desert

Prepare to be transported to another world in the otherworldly landscapes of the Atacama Desert . Located in the northern part of Chile, it is one of the driest and hottest places on Earth. Parts of the desert are so inhospitable, even bacteria can’t survive there!

I spent five days there and discovered many unforgettable things to do in the Atacama Desert . Marvel at the surreal salt flats of the Salar de Atacama , soak in the natural hot springs of Puritama , and witness the breathtaking sunset over the Moon Valley .

As the gateway to the Atacama Desert, San Pedro de Atacama is a small town that serves as a base for exploring the region’s natural wonders. Hike through the otherworldly Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley) and the dunes of the Death Valley , witness geysers shooting steams of hot water into the air at El Tatio , visit the altiplano lakes and gaze at the star-filled skies at one of the world’s best stargazing sites.

4. Patagonia

This region in the southern tip of Chile, bordering Argentina, is one of the most spectacular wilderness areas in the world. From Santiago, there are frequent flights to Punta Arenas , the gateway to Chilean Patagonia. Make sure you sit on the left side of the plane for some of the most breathtaking aerial views of Patagonia !

Patagonia is a huge area that’s divided by countless channels, fjords, ice-fields, glaciers and the southern end of the mighty Andes mountains, making large parts of the region quite inaccessible. Patagonia is fascinating, awe-inspiring and often bewildering. During my tour, I visited many highlights of Patagonia which absolutely blew me away (quite literally). 

For nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, a visit to Torres del Paine National Park is a must. Located near the town of Puerto Natales , this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is home to soaring granite peaks, turquoise lakes, and vast glaciers. Embark on the iconic W trek , go horseback riding, or simply revel in the untouched beauty of this pristine wilderness.

I suggest making Puerto Natales your base. From here, you can join a boat trip along the Seno Ultima Esperanza (or Last Hope Sound) to the Balmaceda and Serrano glaciers , and go on numerous day or multi-day tours to other amazing places, including the world-famous Perito Merino glacier in Argentina.

5. Chiloé Island

Steeped in mythology and folklore, Chiloé Island offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The gateway to Chiloé Island is the port city of Puerto Montt on the mainland. I especially loved the island’s verdant landscapes, charming fishing villages and distinctive wooden churches, such as the Church of Colo in Quemchi , one of 16 churches in Chiloé that was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000. Another stunning church to visit is the San Francisco church in Castro .

Don’t miss sampling traditional dishes like curanto , a mouthwatering seafood stew. Don’t forget to visit the iconic palafitos , colorful stilt houses that line the coast. Look up tours to Chiloé Island .

6. Puerto Varas

The Chilean Lake District is a beautiful region of crystal-clear, emerald lakes and magnificent snow-capped volcanos. Nestled on the shores of Lake Llanquihue (pronounced as ‘jean [as in French]-kway-way’), Puerto Varas is a picturesque town that captivates visitors with its stunning scenery. The conical-shaped Mount Osorno lies just across the lake, providing for a stunning picture-perfect backdrop.

Admire the Swiss/German-inspired architecture, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade, and indulge in outdoor activities such as kayaking, hiking, and fishing. Don’t miss the nearby emerald-coloured Petrohue waterfalls.

Puerto Varas is also the starting point of the spectacular Cruce Andino tour , which takes visitors by bus and boat across numerous lakes in the Andes mountains to Bariloche in Argentina. Check availability and prices for this unforgettable tour .

Another town in the Chilean Lake District I enjoyed is Pucon , a picturesque town renowned for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventure opportunities. Visit the iconic Villarrica Volcano , soak in the soothing thermal hot springs, and engage in thrilling activities like whitewater rafting, hiking, and skiing, depending on the season. Look up activities and tours in and around Pucon .

8. Winelands

If you love wines (like I do), you’re in for a treat in Chile! The Chilean winelands are scattered around the centre of the country, some of which are a short drive from Santiago. Here are three top wine destinations in Chile to consider:

Maipo Valley

Located just outside of Santiago, the Maipo Valley is one of Chile’s most traditional and prestigious wine regions. Known for its Cabernet Sauvignon, this valley is home to some of the country’s oldest and most renowned wineries. Visitors can take tours and tastings at iconic vineyards such as Concha y Toro , Santa Rita and Cousiño Macul . The scenic landscape, with the backdrop of the Andes Mountains, adds to the charm of the region.

Colchagua Valley

Situated south of Santiago, the Colchagua Valley is famous for producing high-quality red wines, particularly Carmenere, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah. It is considered one of Chile’s premier wine regions, offering picturesque vineyards and excellent wineries. Some notable wineries to visit include Viu Manent , Montes , Lapostolle , and Viña Santa Cruz . In addition to wine tastings, many wineries offer guided tours, wine pairing experiences, and opportunities to explore their beautiful estates.

Casablanca Valley

Located between Santiago and Valparaíso, the Casablanca Valley is known for its cool-climate wines, particularly Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. This valley benefits from the coastal influences and fertile soils, resulting in crisp and aromatic white wines. It is a relatively young wine region but has gained international recognition for its high-quality production. Wineries like Casas del Bosque , Matetic and Kingston Family Vineyards offer excellent wine tours and tastings, allowing visitors to enjoy the region’s stunning vineyard landscapes.

Other notable wine regions worth mentioning include the Aconcagua Valley , renowned for its Bordeaux-style reds, and the Limarí Valley, known for its cool-climate wines and proximity to the Pacific Ocean.

Regardless of which winelands you choose to explore, you can expect beautiful vineyards, informative tours, and the opportunity to taste some of Chile’s finest wines. Remember to check the winery’s visiting hours and make reservations in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

9. Viña del Mar

Known as the “Garden City,” Viña del Mar is a coastal paradise located north of Valparaíso. It’s a city of beautiful beaches, meticulously maintained parks and gardens, and a vibrant cultural scene. Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic coastline, admire the eclectic 20th century architecture along Avenida Libertad (Liberty Avenue) and Quillota Street , visit the impressive Flower Clock , and explore the renowned Quinta Vergara Park , home to the annual Viña del Mar International Song Festival.

10. Easter Island

Famous for its enigmatic moai statues, Easter Island (or Rapa Nui) is a captivating destination in the southeastern Pacific Ocean. It’s one of the most isolated places in the world – the closest landmass is about 4,000 kilometers away!

For a small island, there’s a wide array of things to do on Easter island . Visit the ancient stone guardians that dot the island’s landscape, learn about the theories and mysteries surrounding their origins, and explore the fascinating archaeological sites. I also recommend visiting Orongo crater for some stunning scenery and some of the earliest stone carvings on the island.

Easter Island is one of the most extraordinary places I’ve ever visited. If you’re going, please take good care of this precious heritage by staying on the paths and not touching the statues. Look for Easter Island tours .

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2 Responses

Hi Nick, You’re welcome to check out my post about Easter Island here . I visited the island as part of a RTW trip – I flew in from Tahiti with Latam Airlines, then continued to Santiago after a few days. Santiago is the gateway to Easter Island and it’s not cheap – the cheapest time to visit is in the months of August and September. I hope this helps.

Cheers, Keith

I would be interested to learn more about your Easter Island experience -best way to get and stay there for example…

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Best Places to Visit in Chile: A First-Time Itinerary

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With this one-month itinerary, you’ll get a good sense of the best places to visit in Chile without rushing. You may just find yourself staying longer (or at least planning your next trip).

Chile is one of my absolute favorite countries, and one that I think is highly underrated as a destination. Yes, hundreds of thousands flock to Torres del Paine every year for its world-class trekking. Those passing through Santiago may spend a day or two admiring Valparaíso’s street art.

But so often, that’s it, and people who have traveled halfway around the world to this long, thin slice of a country miss out on an incredible array of things to see and do in between.

If you’re willing and able to spare a little more time, Chile will reward you with beautiful scenery, world-class outdoor adventures, delicious food, and kind, welcoming people.

I’ve included some suggestions for planning your trip (including the best time to travel in Chile and how to order your itinerary ) at the end of this post.

For now, let’s jump right into the best places to visit in this astonishingly beautiful country!

We’ll start with the north (waaay north) and work our way south to the grand prize (in my opinion) of Torres del Paine.

The Atacama Desert: Epic stargazing and an otherworldly landscape

The Atacama Desert is a uniquely beautiful, remote area of the planet. The lack of clouds and light pollution mean it’s also one of the best places in the world for stargazing . (I mean that literally – the area is home to some of the most advanced astronomical observatories on Earth.)

Some of its most popular destinations include the Tatio Geysers, El Valle de la Luna, and Laguna Chaxa. 

My personal highlights were visiting the otherworldly Lagunas Altiplanicas and Piedras Rojas.

Unless you plan to rent a car, booking a tour in town is really the only way to see the main sights of the Atacama Desert. You can pick and choose which sights are included, with the full-day tours taking you a bit further afield. Organized tours also include a guide, plus you’ll have the chance to meet other travelers on the trip.

If you’re planning a trip to the Atacama Desert, I wrote a separate post about my experience touring this remote and beautiful corner of Chile’s far north .

Santiago: The capital city and starting point for most Chile itineraries

Admittedly, Santiago is not one of South America’s most charming cities. Sprawling and polluted, it’s not somewhere most travelers linger the way they might in Buenos Aires , Rio de Janeiro, or Medellín.

That said, Santiago has some interesting sights to fill a day or two of your trip to Chile. I also found it to have good food and kind people, which is all I really need anyway! 

To start, stroll through the Plaza de Armas in the center of the city. There are several important sights nearby, including the National History Museum and the Metropolitan Cathedral. I personally enjoyed The National Museum of Fine Arts.

For a pretty park with nice views of the city, check out Santa Lucía Hill. 

If that doesn’t satisfy your need for sweeping views, take the funicular up San Cristóbal Hill in Santiago’s Metropolitan Park.

West of the Plaza de Armas, in Parque Quinta Normal, there are several additional museums. These include the Museum of Memory and Human Rights, which honors victims of the Pinochet regime.

Valparaíso: Incredible street art makes this hilly city a must for any Chile itinerary

Valparaíso is a port city and UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s known for colorful buildings, incredible street art , and funiculars ferrying locals and tourists up and down its hilly streets.

You can get to Valparaíso by bus from Santiago in about an hour and a half. Buses leave frequently from the Alameda and Pajaritos bus stations. (Try to leave from Pajaritos, as you’ll avoid driving through the city and potentially getting stuck in traffic. Pajaritos is close to the end of the red line on the metro.)

You could spend a week wandering the streets and not discover all of the art, but a couple days will give you a good sense of the city. 

For some sand and sea, the resort town of Viña del Mar is just north of Valparaíso. You can hop on a local bus and be at the beach in under 30 minutes. It’s not the nicest beach in the world, but it’s probably your best bet before you head further south. 

Pucón: The best place to visit in Chile for outdoor adventure lovers

Pucón is a beautiful town sitting in the shadow of Volcán Villarrica in the Chilean Lake District. You can get there by bus from Valparaíso or Santiago. (I took an overnight bus from Valparaíso and don’t really recommend that if you can avoid it. It was just a normal bus, so it was hard to sleep. Unless you’re one of those people who can just pass out anywhere, try to book a sleeper bus!)

Once in Pucón, there are tons of outdoor activities to choose from. Probably the most popular is the climb up Villarrica volcano , which is offered by pretty much every tour company in town.

Keep in mind that ascents can be suspended with little warning due to weather conditions or volcanic activity. (You may have seen the spectacular photos the last time Villarrica erupted in 2015.)

You have a few relaxing options for the day after your climb. The first requires nothing more than a stroll to the lake! Pucón sits on the shore of Lake Villarrica, where you can swim, sail, or just relax. 

There are also hot springs within a few hours of Pucón. 

Once your legs have recovered, there are many other outdoor adventures to be had. You can book kayaking or white-water rafting trips in town through tour agencies or hostels/hotels. 

For a DIY hike, I highly recommend visiting Santuario El Cañi. You can get there independently using the public bus, and it’s a stunning hike with views of three nearby volcanoes at the top. 

Pucón is also one of the best places to visit in Chile for skiing in the winter!

Puerto Varas: Another top outdoor adventure destination in the Chilean Lake District

Puerto Varas is similar to Pucón in that it’s a hub for outdoor adventure sports. You can book kayaking, rafting, fly fishing, and boating excursions. There is also beautiful hiking nearby, but be warned: December/January is horsefly season.

For an easy, flat walk, visit the Saltos de Petrohué, a collection of waterfalls against the backdrop of Osorno Volcano. You can take a bus from Puerto Varas for CLP 3,000, though note that it stops frequently and can be quite slow compared to private transportation.  

The same bus continues to Petrohué, on the shores of Lago Todos Los Santos. From here, you can do a pretty, slightly more strenuous hike to Mirador La Picada and Desolation Pass. (Look for signs to “Sendero Paso Desolación.”)

I was warned about the flies, but I went anyway. Would we call it a mistake? I don’t know. They were pretty miserable, but the hike was beautiful. (I’d had enough by the time I reached the mirador and turned around.) Be prepared for an arm workout if you go during this season; you will be swatting those flies nonstop.

Chiloé Island: One of the most unique places to visit in Chile

I read somewhere that Chiloé looks like a little corner of Ireland in South America, and I completely agree! (It’s actually known for being quite rainy and overcast, but as you can see, I got lucky.) Driving around the island takes you through verdant pastures and along rocky cliffs next to the sea.

The two most common places to base yourself are Ancud and Castro. Ancud is closer to the ferry that brings you to the island, while Castro is a little more central to Chiloé’s sights. 

Chiloé is known for the unique wooden churches that dot its islands. The churches date to the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, but they are distinct from the typical Spanish colonial architecture of the time.

For some time in nature, go for a hike in Chiloé National Park. (Be sure to lay on the bug spray!)

You can also visit the penguin colony at the Isolotes de Puñihuil. Note that this is a boat tour, so you won’t be able to get as close to the penguins as you can on Isla Magdalena near Punta Arenas.

The penguins (and otters!) are really cute though, and it’s a lovely drive to get there! (Seriously, I recommend the drive to Puñihuil even if you don’t do the penguin tour.)

Chiloé has its own distinct culture and customs, and this applies to food as well. If you eat meat, make sure to try curanto. This is a dish (more like a feast) of meat, shellfish, and potatoes that are cooked in a pit over hot stones and covered with leaves. You can book a half-day tour and watch the whole process, which is quite the experience!

Check out my Chiloé post for more details on what to see and do in this beautiful little corner of the country.

Punta Arenas: Mostly a transportation hub, but don’t miss the penguins!

If you opt to fly from Puerto Montt to the far south of Chile, you’ll end up in Punta Arenas.

(Note that there is not much to do in Puerto Montt, which is why I haven’t included it on this list. If you plan to fly or take the Navimag ferry from the Chilean Lake District to southern Patagonia, you may as well base yourself in Puerto Varas, which is only 30 minutes away.) 

Located on the coast of the Strait of Magellan, Punta Arenas is a hub for exploring the region (and beyond – cruises and flights to Antarctica depart regularly in the summer months). 

For those like myself who are nowhere near the “trip to Antarctica” tax bracket, there is still reason to visit. Los Pingüinos Natural Monument on Isla Magdalena is home to over 100,000 Magellanic penguins, and they are adorable .

You can book a half-day tour in the morning or afternoon. Note that a shorter tour likely just means a smaller, faster boat. Usually you will spend about an hour on the island. (It’s quite small, with an 800-meter path that takes you to a lighthouse and back.) 

The most affordable option is a ferry that takes approximately an hour and a half each way. Some of the faster boats stop to visit a sea lion colony on the way back to Punta Arenas. 

The lucky ones may also get a glimpse of whales or dolphins from the boats! (I was not one of them, though to be fair, I was passed out for most of the return trip.)

Note that the penguins are only there from October to March!

Puerto Natales: The gateway to Torres del Paine

Puerto Natales is the jumping off point for most trips to Torres del Paine National Park. Here, you can rent trekking gear, stock up on food, and potentially meet hiking buddies. There is not much to do otherwise, but the setting is beautiful.

Buses leave from Punta Arenas frequently and take about 3 hours.

Torres del Paine: The best place to visit in Chile, period!

This is likely the most well-known destination in Chile, and for good reason. Most hikers will have seen photos of the famous Torres, the Cuernos del Paine, or the sprawling Grey Glacier. Forgive the clichés, but to see it in person is truly awe-inspiring. The clouds! The colors of those lakes! It’s one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been.

Trekkers can choose from day hikes or multi-day routes along the famous “W” trek or full “O” circuit. There are also opportunities for fly fishing, kayaking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Anyone who enjoys the outdoors will find something to love about Torres del Paine.

Again, note that accommodation (yes, even campsites) in Torres del Paine must be booked in advance. It can be tricky to find availability for each night you plan to spend in the park, so it’s helpful to be flexible with your itinerary. 

I hiked the W trail and wrote all about my experience solo trekking in Torres del Paine .

Suggestions for planning your itinerary: The best places to visit in Chile, and in what order

Glance at a map, and you’ll quickly see that there are really only two ways to visit Chile: north to south, and south to north. From its northern border with Peru to the southernmost point of the Americas at Cape Horn, Chile stretches over 4,000 kilometers.

It’s both long and thin, which makes backtracking a bit of a pain if you miss a place you wanted to visit. With that in mind, there are a few things to consider when planning your trip.

First things first: Make plans for Torres del Paine before booking anything else on your Chile itinerary.

If you are planning to do a multi-day trek in Torres del Paine, note that accommodation books up very early. (Even the campsites fill up months in advance.)

If your heart is set on the W trek or the O circuit, I recommend reserving your sleeping arrangements before anything else. You may need to alter the rest of your Chile itinerary to suit availability on these increasingly popular trails.

North to South? South to North? Where to start your Chile itinerary

Many people will arrive in the capital, Santiago. Most of the must-see places in Chile are located south of here, with the notable exception of the Atacama Desert . The jumping-off point for exploring the Atacama is the little town of San Pedro.

The trip between Santiago and San Pedro de Atacama involves either a two-hour flight or almost 24 hours on a bus. Normally, I would always encourage taking a bus or train over a flight, but this is a really long bus for just a few days in Chile’s far north.

If you’re coming by land from Bolivia, of course it makes sense to start your Chile itinerary in San Pedro. And if you have plenty of time, there are many lesser-known places to visit in Chile where you can stop for a night or two on your trip between San Pedro and Santiago. (Start by looking into La Serena and the Elqui Valley, Bahía Inglesa, the Humboldt Penguin National Reserve, Pan de Azúcar National Park, and Antofagasta.)

If you are only visiting Chile on this trip, though, you may decide it makes more sense to stick to the southern half of the country. I would recommend pairing the Atacama Desert with a trip to northern Argentina (Salta and Jujuy) and/or the Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia. Salta is a much more reasonable ten (…ish) hours by bus, and many tour operators in Uyuni and San Pedro offer tours of the Salar that start in one city and end in the other.

Don’t get me wrong; the Atacama Desert is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Chile. It’s definitely worth making the effort to get there one way or another, on this trip or in the future.

Zigzagging through Patagonia and the Lake District

Chile also shares a very long border with Argentina, so it may make more sense to start your itinerary elsewhere.

If you’re also visiting the Argentinian Lake District, for example, buses run frequently between Bariloche and Puerto Varas. You can also travel between Pucón and San Martín de los Andes.

In Patagonia, you may very well find it makes more sense to zigzag back and forth between Chile and Argentina.

To stay within Chile, you’ll have to either fly to the far south or take the Navimag ferry . (I flew between the Chilean Lake District and Patagonia on my first trip, which I would normally avoid doing. But I was on a time budget, and I had lived in Argentina previously and visited much of Argentinian Patagonia before.) 

When is the best time to visit Chile?

The best time to explore Chile really depends on you – specifically your aversion to crowds and your preferred temperature. The summer (December to February) is peak travel season in the Chilean Lake District and Patagonia. This is when you’ll enjoy the best weather for hiking (though you’ll quickly realize the Patagonian wind is no joke). The disadvantage, of course, is that you’ll have to contend with both domestic and international tourists in popular places.

My personal experience has been that the summer season in Chile, while busy, is not overrun. There are parts of the world that I won’t touch in their respective peak seasons, but I didn’t find Chile overwhelming in that regard.

Some of the top places to visit in Chile are also great destinations for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. Most of the best ski resorts are located in central Chile, with many just a few hours from Santiago. 

Torres del Paine is open for trekking in winter and, as you can imagine, much less crowded. However, certain trails are closed (the full O circuit is not passable in winter), as are some accommodation options. 

As in many places, the shoulder seasons of spring (October/November) and fall (March/April) arguably bring the best balance of decent weather and manageable crowds in some of the most popular destinations.

More on traveling in Chile

With a month to travel in Chile, you should be able to hit most of the highlights for first-time visitors. You’ll get a good sense of what this amazing and beautiful country has to offer – and you’ll probably find yourself eager to return!

As mentioned above, it often makes sense to weave in and out of Argentina as you make your way through Patagonia. If you have time to combine the places on this list with the top places to visit in Argentina , it will make for an incredible couple of months.

Touring the otherworldly Atacama Desert in Chile’s far north

The best street art tours in Valparaíso

Climbing Volcán Villarrica in the Chilean Lake District

Exploring the Chiloé Archipelago

Solo Hiking the W trek in Torres del Paine

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8 Incredible Places to Visit in Chile For Your Next Adventure

By Author Steph Dyson

Posted on Last updated: 14th November 2023

Having spent over three years living in Santiago, plus multiple other trips back to Chile where I’ve hitchhiked , road-tripped , and trekked around this country , I think it’s fair to say I know a thing or two about the places to visit in Chile.

As one of the top destinations on the planet for adventurous travelers (and #1 in South America ), there are a plethora of destinations that you really need to discover on your next trip to South America’s skinniest and stunning[ist] country.

Sure, Patagonia and Torres del Paine National Park are a huge draw (and included in this list), but there are so many utterly beautiful places across the country that deserve to be on your itinerary.

So, get ready to be inspired with this list of my eight favorite locations for your next adventure when you travel to Chile – and don’t miss my article about the best things to do in Chile , either!

1. Torres del Paine National Park

If you’ve read anything about this country then it should come as no surprise that Torres del Paine National Park comes out at the top of this list of places to visit in Chile.

I first saw the granite spires of this surreally beautiful national park when I hiked the W back in March 2016 and was so enamored that I had to return to complete the Full Circuit or O.

Although I understand that a nine-day hike can take quite a chunk out of anyone’s holiday allocation or backpacking trip in Chile, I strongly recommend that you consider trekking the Circuit  rather than the more popular – and very busy – W .

Not only will you get your fill of hanging glaciers, glimmering glacial lakes, and glimpses of guanacos, foxes, and hares, but it’s a genuine adventure that accessible even to those who’ve never embarked upon a multi-day hike before.

How to get to Torres del Paine National Park from Santiago: Flights from Santiago to Puerto Natales run from the start of December until the end of February with LATAM Airlines . Out of these dates, flights from Santiago to Punta Arenas with LATAM or Sky (two per day, three hours 25 minutes) are your best option.

Where to stay in Puerto Natales: The closest town to Torres del Paine is Puerto Natales, and most travellers stay at least overnight in what has become a surprisingly hip little town. Possibly my favorite hotel in Patagonia (or Chile itself) is Simple Patagonia  ($250 USD double) where, on clear evenings, sunsets across the sound are spectacular from its vast windows. Channeling the barns that once populated the region, the buildings are simple, while inside is a modern warm design, with underfloor heating, large tiled baths, and astonishing views from the living and dining area and bedrooms (the best are rooms 8 and 11). 

2. Chilean Tierra del Fuego, Southern Patagonia

As adventurous places to visit in Chile go, this is probably the most difficult and rewarding of them all. Tierra del Fuego, the huge island at the far end of Patagonia, is only really visited on the Argentine side, with tourists making their way to Ushuaia and the southernmost city on the planet.

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Steph’s itinerary exceeded all expectations. She provided off-the-beaten-path hikes, great restaurants and accommodations, and very helpful local contacts. Due to the weather, we had to deviate from our original plan, however, Steph quickly responded to our email during the trip with further recommendations. Her service took all the guesswork out of planning our vacation and led to the most fun and unforgettable trip we have ever had!

But the Chilean half of Tierra del Fuego is a bewitching paradise of soaring, snow-dusted mountains, rusty peat bog, and a huge range of native wildlife that you’re almost guaranteed to see on a trip here.

In March 2017, I took not one but two road trips to the very end of the road at Caleta Maria, powering through windswept landscapes in our rental Landrover and wild camping beside vast, undisturbed lakes.

Chilean Tierra del Fuego was truly the most beautiful place I’ve ever been in South America and for adventurous souls, it’s the ultimate place to visit in Chile.

It’s also home to Parque Pingüino Rey , a reserve protecting the 70-or-so-strong colony of king penguins that lives at the shores of Bahía Inútil in Tierra del Fuego and which you can visit as part of an expensive tour from Punta Arenas or by arriving independently.

How to get to Tierra del Fuego from Santiago:  Fly from Santago to Punta Arenas and hire a vehicle (a 4×4 isn’t necessary but a car with reasonably high suspension is a good idea) and take the ferry across at Punta Delgada to Tierra del Fuego.

There are plenty of international vehicle rental companies in town, but for the best prices and to book easily in advance (and get insurance documents in English), I always use Rental Cars .

Where to stay in Tierra del Fuego: There is a range of cabañas (cabins) run by local people en route . We stayed in Hosteria Las Lengas (four-person cabin $83,300 CLP ($125 USD), double room $134,470 CLP ($202 USD), reservations [email protected] ) on the shores of Lago Blanco and at Estancia Lago Fagnano (camping (price unknown), four-person cabin $60,000 CLP ($90 USD), contact +61 2 262 366 or +56 9 821 683 88), as well as wild camped in various lake and riverside spots.

3. The Chepu Valley, Chiloé

A growing number of those who travel to Chile head to Chiloé, the island just south of Puerto Montt in the Lakes Region. It’s best known for its rainbow-colored houses on stilts that line the estuary in capital Castro and which are known as palafitos.

Many of these former fishermen’s dwellings have been converted into swish boutique hotels and symbolize the rich culture that makes this island so distinct from the rest of Chile.

You’ll also see this singular identity in the equally quirky wooden churches dotted around the island. 150 were built by the Jesuits in the early 1600s with the help of the Chilote people, with the remaining 60 – many in pastel hues – a curious representation of the island’s boatbuilding and religious heritage. 16 have also been designated UNESCO World Heritage sites to reflect their distinctive cultural importance.

Beyond the architecture, Chiloé is a place of unique food (try curanto, a seafood and potato stew cooked underground) and untouched natural landscapes.

While Parque Nacional Chiloé is the most visited, my personal favorite is the astoundingly beautiful and wildlife-rich Chepu Valley.

Here, I kayaked at dawn through the jet-black boughs of a forest that sunk beneath the waters of Río Puntra after a 9.3 magnitude earthquake – the largest ever recorded – ripped through the island, causing the whole of Chiloé to drop 1.5m.

You might even spot Southern river otters in these silent waters, and while I failed to do so, I did manage to catch a glimpse of a whole family of pudú, one of the smallest deer species in the world.

Unfortunately, the lodge that used to offer these tours has since shut down, so your best option is a tour from nearby Ancud. The area also has one of the most beautiful coastlines I’ve seen in Chile, so it’s well worth the wander down to the beach.

How to get to the Chepu Valley from Santiago: Sky and LATAM both fly to Puerto Montt (five per day, one-hour 45 minutes, from where you need to take a bus to Puerto Montt bus station to get connecting transport to Ancud.

From here, public buses leave on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays to Chepu (check at the bus station for the exact times in the morning and afternoon). Alternatively, you can take a taxi directly to Chepu or get dropped off at KM 25 on the road towards Castro and hitchhike from there.

Where to stay in the Chepu Valley: On the western shores of Lago Cucao in the southwest of the island,  Palafito Cucao Lodge  ($130 USD double, two-night minimum) is one of my favorite places to stay in Chile. The building mimics a traditional wooden-shingled palafito, with a stylish living room and wraparound terrace over the lake, where you may spot an otter meandering through the waters. It’s also just a short distance from  Parque Nacional Chiloé , which is home to a number of short hiking trails and outstandingly beautiful beaches. 

4. The Carretera Austral, Northern Patagonia

This 1,240km stretch of mostly unpaved road makes for one of the most exciting ways of traveling in Chile: road-tripping. Depending on your Chile travel itinerary, you can start the Carretera Austral at its northern tip from Puerto Montt or at its southernmost town, Villa O’Higgins.

In reality, most rent a vehicle in the former (just check the T&Cs to ensure you can take it on the Carretera Austral) and drive through the glacial and forested landscapes of northern Patagonia, stopping at Carretera highlights such as the Queulat Hanging Glacier, the Enchanted Forest, the San Rafael Glacier, and the Marble Caves.

You can also hire a car in Balmaceda, an airport halfway down the Carretera Austral.

For those with even more adventurous tendencies, travel in Chile wouldn’t be complete without hitchhiking the Carretera Austral, a both safe and highly recommended way of seeing Patagonia.

You’ll need to allow yourself more time as it’s never guaranteed that you’ll get hitch, and also to pack a full set of camping equipment (check out my recommended packing list for Patagonia for suggestions ) just in case you get stuck in the middle of nowhere and have to pitch up in a spellbindingly beautiful part of Patagonia – what a shame!

How to get to the Carretera Austral from Santiago: Sky and LATAM both fly to Puerto Montt (five per day, one-hour 45 minutes). Alternatively, the Navimag ferry leaves Puerto Montt and sails to Coyhaique, about halfway along the Carretera Austral two times per week during the Austral summer.

Where to stay along the Carretera Austral: There are plenty of places to stay en route . Check out this complete guide to the Carretera Austral for all my recommendations.

5. Puerto Varas, The Lakes Region

Puerto Varas has long been one of the favorite places to visit in Chile for travelers, not only because this small city has an incredible lakeside location and is overlooked by the snowy cone of Volcán Osorno, but it’s also a short distance away from a whole host of hikes and activities.

One option is to summit the volcano using a tour, but if you’re on a smaller budget, you’re better off renting a car from town and driving up to the end of the road near the top of the volcano, from where it’s possible to ride the cable car even higher.

At the top of the cable car, you can hike to the red crater which has stupendous panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Nearby, there’s also the Saltos de Petrohue, a set of gushing waterfalls that spill over ancient lava flows and the tiny village of Petrohué where you can walk along the beach beside Lago Todos Los Santos and even pay a small amount for a short boat trip around the lake.

How to get to Puerto Varas from Santiago: Sky and LATAM both fly to Puerto Montt (five per day, one-hour 45-minutes) and from there, it’s a short bus journey to the bus station and then 20 minutes via local minibus to Puerto Varas. Buses from Santiago also leave for Puerto Varas, taking roughly 13 hours.

Where to stay in Puerto Varas: Both times that I’ve travelled in Chile to Puerto Varas, I’ve stayed in Compass del Sur  (dorm $14,000 CLP ($17 USD), double room $39,000 CLP ($46 USD)). They have huge, comfortable rooms and their breakfast is awesome!

6. The Atacama Desert, Norte Grande

Sky-piercing volcanoes combine with record-breaking geyser fields and a sprinkling of flamingos in the Atacama Desert, one of the most popular destinations for foreign tourists and one of the truly unmissable places to visit in Chile.

At over 2,400m above sea level, the Atacama Desert is breathtaking in both senses of the word and also one of the top places on the planet for stargazing thanks to an average of over 200 cloudless nights per year.

But while a trip to this high-altitude region of desert and salt flats is always going to be memorable, one way to ramp up the adventure is by hiring a car and heading out into the Atacama Desert under your own steam.

Not only will this save you a lot of cash, but it means that you can adapt your itinerary and reach places such as the Piedras Rojas – a strange formation of lava flow from one of the many surrounding volcanoes – which was my personal highlight.

How to get to the Atacama Desert from Santiago: Seven flights per day leave from Santiago to Calama (two hours 10-minutes), after which it’s a one-and-a-half-hour bus journey to San Pedro de Atacama, the oasis town at the heart of the desert.

Where to stay in the Atacama Desert: I stumbled upon Ckuri Atacama ($48,000 CLP ($78 USD) double) online and this is definitely the nicest place you will find in San Pedro. They only have three rooms and it’s best if you’re a couple (they’re only double rooms), but they all include a bathroom with shower, a large double bed and a small dining area with fridge, cutlery, and plates.

7. Valdivia, The Lakes Region

This small university city in the Lakes Region isn’t one of the places to travel in Chile for adventure per se , but given that so few tourists ever make it here, part of Valdivia’s appeal is that you feel like you’ve made it some truly away from the crowds.

That said, there’s plenty of room for an adventure in Valdivia, which is best known by Chileans as the beer capital of the country, thanks in large to the German heritage of many of its residents.

Brewing giant Kunstmann is based here and you can even do a tour of its factory (something I’ve heard compared to a trip to Disney Land – so you may want to give it a miss), but there’s a range of tiny, craft breweries and brilliant bars selling all the local brews (a particular favorite was El Growler ).

What’s more, the resident sea lion colony that lives at the fish market is more than worth the trip to Valdivia alone – particularly as you’ll likely see a fearless local dog attempting to have a standoff with an equally fearless sea lion…

Outside of town, you can take a bus to nearby Niebla where tiny motorboats transport you across to the ruined Spanish fortifications on Isla Mancera and Corral or you can enjoy the museum at Fuerte Nieble with its commanding views across the bay.

How to get to Valdivia from Santiago: It’s a ten-hour, overnight bus from Santiago to Valdivia with a number of companies offering the route. You can also take a 3-and-a-half-hour bus from Puerto Montt.

Where to stay in Valdivia: We stayed in the incredible Airesbuenos Hostel (dorms $12,000 CLP ($16 USD), double $32,000 CLP ($51 USD)), which has a beautiful outdoor space, huge comfortable bedrooms and a really great breakfast.

7. Pucón , The Lakes Region

For many, Pucón is the ultimate destination for adventure travel in Chile, with the main highlight being the fact that you can ascend to the peak of Volcán Villarrica, an active, 2,847m stratovolcano that presides over the town and the whole area.

One of the major draws of hiking to the top is the lava lake found within the volcano’s crater and which can be seen spitting lava in the months of February and March when it’s most active.

Luckily, it hasn’t erupted for two years, when it spewed lava and ash into the air and over 3,000 people were evacuated.

But the real fun comes when you make your way down, sliding on your posterior as far as the snow will take you.

Although you’re unlikely to see the lava if you visit in October or November, you’ll definitely end up sliding down the volcano a lot further (and walking a lot less) than we did when I was there in March.

In and around Pucón there are also a wealth of hiking trails with sensational views in Parque Nacional Huerquehue, kayaking and rafting opportunities on the nearby Río Trancura, and a load of hot springs that are best visited at night so that you can relax in a geothermal pool beneath a shimmering sky of stars.

How to get to Pucón from Santiago: Most visit Pucón as part of a trip towards Santiago from Patagonia as it’s around five hours by bus to Puerto Varas and Puerto Montt. However, it’s possible to take an 11-hour overnight bus from Santiago directly to Pucón.

Where to stay in Pucón: Pucón is known as Chile’s capital of adventure and, while it’s a firm favorite with the backpacking set, if you’re looking for a high level of comfort than a hostel, there are plenty of options – although you will need a car to access the best.  Rakau Lodge  ($275 USD double) sits comfortably within this category. This sensitively-designed property is surrounded by forest and so is the ideal place for relaxation – particularly after a busy day of hitting the trails in nearby  Parque Nacional Huerquehue. It’s worth upgrading to the villa for your own private terrace surrounded by the peaceful sounds of the forest.

Saturday 23rd of September 2023

Spent 2 months traveling Chile about 15 years ago…went everywhere by Guide and public transportation. Stayed with families and camped. Chile is a gorgeous country in all aspects! Thanks for the reminder

Steph Dyson

Thursday 23rd of November 2023

Thanks Judi!

Friday 8th of September 2017

Thanks Steph for the great information! I am going to some of these places next month!

Monday 11th of September 2017

Thanks Mark! And you'll have such a great time - enjoy!

The 12 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Chile

There’s a saying in Chile that when God finished making the world, he had a bit of every kind of landscape left over: desert, forest, mountains. So he put them all together and made Chile. And when you look at this thin sliver of a country hanging off the western edge of South America, it’s easy to see why.

Stretching nearly 3,000 miles from the warm climes of central South America to the frigid, storm-lashed toes of the continent dipped in the Drake Passage, Chile’s length has blessed it with a wide range of climates and habitats that, in turn, means easy access to nearly every kind of environment you can imagine.

Exploring its diverse natural wonders properly would take a lifetime, but some places rise above the rest; some are made by time and nature, others made by man that capture and pay tribute to the grandeur of this country. If you want to experience Chile at its most ravishing, these are the twelve most beautiful places to start.

Torres del Paine National Park

Looking to discover Patagonia’s Greatest Hits of mountains, glaciers, and grasslands? Visit Torres del Paine.

The most famous of Chile’s illustrious national parks, this almost indescribably gorgeous 448,280-acre park is extremely popular among backpackers who come to tackle the W Trek, a W-shaped multi-day hiking route that traverses the park’s central massif, visiting highlights like the colossal Grey Glacier, the French Valley, and the Towers, a trio of granite spires rising above a glacial lake.

The park is also a great place to spot native wildlife like pumas, guanacos, and the Patagonia condor.

Marble Caves

Located on the fringes of the vibrant General Carrera Lake in the southern Aysén region, the Marble Caves answer the question of what the inside of a kaleidoscope is like. Over time, the sediment-rich waters have eroded the calcium-carbonate rocks, transforming them into sculpted caves painted in Impressionist swirls of multi-colored blue.

The caves are only accessible by boat or kayak, and tours are offered to visit from nearby towns.

Elqui Valley

These intertwining valleys in Chile’s “Norte Chico” (Little North) fly under the radar for most foreign visitors but are well worth a visit. Steep, craggy mountain slopes descend to valley floors of verdant green vineyards, growing the grapes used to make Chile’s liquor of choice, pisco, at pisquera distilleries.

The valleys are also reputed to have a special mystical power that provides a direct conduit to the universe, and counterculture and New Age beliefs & practices abound here. At night, the elevation and clear skies provide unparalleled stargazing.

Miscanti and Miñiques Lagoons, Atacama Desert

Cradled between mountains and volcanoes, these twin high-altitude lakes in the northern Atacama Desert (the world’s driest non-polar desert) sit over 13,500 feet above sea level. The rich, cobalt blue waters mirror the sky overhead, which, due to the elevation, seems so close you can almost touch it.

The white sandy beaches, yellow desert grasses, and purple-and-red mountains framing the lakes complete the picture, and when you stand by the lakes, listening to the wind whistling through the peaks, you feel like you’re completely alone on top of the world (apart from the resident flamingos and vicuñas).

Reaching the lagoons is roughly an hour-and-a-half drive from the town of San Pedro de Atacama.

Chiloé Archipelago

It’s fair to say that Chiloé, an idyllic archipelago off the coast of the Lakes District, is enchanting. Not just because of its forests, rolling hills, scenic bays, and charming towns but also because of its mythology, which is full of stories about womanizer trolls, mermaids, ghost ships, and covens of warlocks.

With no bridge to the mainland, the islands have developed a culture and way of life wholly unique from the rest of the country. Here, entire houses are moved by teams of ox and men in a tradition called minga , people live in colorful wooden houses (known as palafitos ) that are built on stilts over bays, and time seems to have frozen still in the isolated villages on outlying islands.

The archipelago is also famous for its elegant wooden churches, many of which are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Top 10 Most Beautiful States in the US

Valle de la luna, atacama desert.

Just a short drive outside San Pedro de Atacama, this stark, otherworldly valley of red-rock ridges and cliffs, giant sand dunes, and wind-sculpted formations truly does feel like being on the moon.

In certain areas, evaporated lakes have left behind sprinklings of salt that give the illusion of a fresh snowfall. Perfect for hiking during the day, sunset is the best time to visit, as the fading sun sets the valley’s rocks ablaze with color. The terrain is so extraterrestrial that NASA has even tested Mars rovers here.

Conguillío National Park

Want to go back in time to the age of the dinosaurs? Conguillío National Park is the closest thing.

Located in the Araucanía Region, this national park is best known for its Araucanía or “monkey puzzle” trees: towering, bare-trunked trees crowned with arching branches. These ancient giants, which are the national tree of Chile, can live for thousands of years; one tree, the Mother Araucaria, is over 1,800 years old.

Hiking through these prehistoric forests, you truly feel like a dinosaur is just around the next corner (the BBC used the park as a filming location for Walking with Dinosaurs ).

The park is also home to the smoldering Llaima Volcano, which has ribboned parts of the park with black lava flows, crystal-clear lakes, and native wildlife like Magellanic woodpeckers.

The Lake District

Located in the mid-southern reaches of the country, the Lake District – the Gateway to Patagonia – is a wonderland of snow-capped volcanoes, torrential rivers, glistening lakes, and deep forests. This has made it a haven for outdoor sports lovers, who flock to cities like Puerto Varas and Pucon to explore the surrounding wildernesses and national parks.

In scenic cities like Puerto Varas (overlooked by two volcanoes and sitting on the edge of Llanquihue Lake), you’ll also see evidence of the region’s history as a hub of German immigration, with picturesque traditional architecture, food, and beer. (The Lake District is ground zero for Chile’s craft brewing scene).

The next partial solar eclipse will pass over the region on October 2, 2024.

Historic Santiago

The capital of Santiago is a sleek, modern metropolis, but navigate your way into the heart of the city, and you’ll find the soul of Santiago in its classic, old neighborhoods like Lastarria and Bellavista.

Here, European elegance is mixed with vibrant Chilean flair in these bustling neighborhoods full of museums, local boutiques, as well as cafés, bars, and restaurants where you can get to know the city on a more personal level.

Both of these neighborhoods also have hilltop parks (Santa Lucia in Lastarria, Cerro San Cristobal in Bellavista). Climb them (or take the funicular car up) to take in the sweeping city views and catch a glimpse of the Andes mountains.

Carretera Austral

Snaking 770 miles through the Aysén region, the Carretera Austral (Southern Highway) was the vision of dictator Pinochet to connect the area’s isolated communities. But it also makes for a visually spectacular road trip, passing epic mountains, temperate rainforests, jewel-toned lakes and rivers, creeping glaciers, and charming towns like Caleta Tortel, a community built on stilts along a remote waterfront.

Travelers on the Carretera Austral can also stop off in the many national parks located along the route, like Queulat (home to a hanging glacier), Cerro Castillo (arguably the next Torres del Paine), and the new Patagonia Park, which was gifted to Chile by Douglas and Kris Tompkins.

Casablanca Wine Valley

Chile’s lush central valleys, sandwiched between the Andes mountains and the Pacific Ocean, not only produce excellent wine but also offer excellent views.

Heading from Santiago to the Pacific Coast, the road passes through the bucolic Casablanca wine valley, where the valley floor is covered with vineyards and surrounded by forested hills. Tens of wineries call the valley home, and you can cycle along quiet rural roads between different vineyards for tours and tastings.

Known as Little San Francisco due to its steep stairways and vibrantly painted houses, the UNESCO World Heritage City of Valparaiso on Chile’s central coast bursts with energy and color.

Roughly an hour and a half from Santiago, in its heyday, the city was once one of the most important ports in South America. Nestled against rolling coastal hills surrounding a circular bay, it’s the center of Chile’s counterculture scene, rife with art, culture, theater, music, and activism.

Riding up into the hills on the many funicular elevators, you’ll encounter expansive vistas of the city and ocean before getting lost among the warrens of cobblestone streets, surrounded by colorful houses and flashy street art.

I am amazed by the out-of-this-world landscapes of Chile. I am dreaming of a visit to chile

I am planing to visit Chile,this wonderful country nex year 2024.It sounds like a big simfony of wonderful nature and nice people too.

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12 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Chile

Posted on March 31, 2023 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on March 31, 2023

Chile is a country of stunning contrasts, from the arid deserts in the north to the lush forests and glaciers in the south . This unique blend of natural beauty offers a variety of attractions and adventurous activities for any type of traveler. 

Whether you’re interested in exploring its unique culture, natural wonders, or beautiful cities, Chile is a destination that should not be missed. 

Here are 12 of the most beautiful places to visit in Chile where you’ll make unforgettable memories. 

Looking for an all-inclusive vacation to Chile? Discover the best small-group tour packages to explore the country.

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Best Places to Travel in Chile

1. torres del paine national park .

Torres del Paine National Park is one of Chile’s most popular and breathtaking destinations. Located in the southern Patagonia region, the park boasts some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world. The park is home to towering mountains, glaciers, turquoise lakes, and incredible landscapes that will leave you in awe.

Visitors can hike the park’s many trails , which offer a range of difficulty levels, and spot an array of wildlife, including guanacos, foxes, and Andean condors. 

The park is also home to the Grey Glacier , one of the few glaciers in the world that is still growing. 

With its awe-inspiring beauty and abundance of outdoor activities, Torres del Paine National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Recommended Experience – 4-Day Trip to Puerto Natales & Torres del Paine National Park from Punta Arenas

2. Easter Island 

Easter Island, or Rapa Nui as it is known to its indigenous inhabitants, is a remote and mysterious island located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, about 3,500 kilometers off the coast of Chile. 

This mystical destination is famous for its ancient Moai statues, which are carved from stone and resemble humans with oversize heads. These statues are scattered across the island and date back almost 800 years. 

Visitors to Easter Island can explore the archaeological sites and learn about the island’s fascinating history and culture, which is deeply intertwined with the moai and the beliefs of the Rapa Nui. The Rapa Nui people, who are the island’s indigenous inhabitants, have a unique culture and history that is still evident in their customs and traditions today.

In addition to its rich cultural heritage, Easter Island is also home to stunning beaches and volcanic craters , and is a popular destination for hiking . With its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, Easter Island is a truly unforgettable destination. 

Recommended Experience – Private Full-Day Easter Island Highlights

3. San Pedro de Atacama

San Pedro de Atacama is a small town located in the driest desert in the world, the Atacama Desert.

The town itself is filled with traditional adobe buildings, giving it a rustic and charming atmosphere, but the area surrounding San Pedro de Atacama is what visitors come to see. 

Surrounded by otherworldly landscapes that include salt flats, geysers, and dramatic canyons , there are plenty of unique things to see and do in the Atacama Desert.  

San Pedro de Atacama is a great spot to use as a base when exploring the Atacama Desert. 

Walk through the Valle de la Luna , where the landscape reminds you of the moon, then visit the Atacama Salt Flats where you’ll see Andean flamingos feeding in the lagoons. 

See the Tatio Geysers , take a dip in the hot springs, and head out to the desert for some of the best star-gazing opportunities in the world. 

Recommended Experience – 4-Day Discovery of the Atacama Desert

4. Santiago 

Santiago, the capital and largest city of Chile, is located in the central valley surrounded by the Andean Mountains. 

The city offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition , with historic landmarks such as the Plaza de Armas, Moneda Palace, and Cerro San Cristóbal standing alongside its skyscrapers, museums, and cultural centers mixed with historic landmarks such as the Plaza de Armas and the Cerro San Cristobal. 

Santiago, as expected in the capital city, has plenty of museums, art galleries, and theaters to explore, which showcase the country’s rich history and diverse culture. 

The city also has a thriving food scene , with a variety of restaurants serving both traditional Chilean dishes as well as international cuisine. 

Nearby Santiago, you’ll find several world-renowned wine regions , including the Maipo Valley, Casablanca Valley, and Colchagua Valley. 

These valleys are home to some of Chile’s best wineries, and a wine-tasting tour is an easy day trip from Santiago.

5. Valparaiso 

Valparaiso, known as Valpo to the locals, is a colorful and vibrant port city on the central coast of Chile. The city is known for its colorful houses, interesting street art, and steep hillsides. 

Valparaiso is one of Chile’s most important ports and before the Panama Canal was built, it was a major stopover for ships traveling between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

Its rich history is evident in the well-preserved colonial buildings and the busy port area. The town was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003. 

The city is also famous for its street art , which can be found on almost every street, and for its funiculars, which transport locals and visitors up and down the steep hills that Valparaiso is built on. 

Being on the Pacific Ocean also means that you’ll enjoy fresh seafood, and tours of the harbor provide excellent views of the city and its famous hills. 

6. Chiloé Island 

Chiloé Island, Chile’s second-largest island, is located in the southern part of Chile, just off the coast of Chile’s Lake Districts. 

The island is famous for its palafitos, or homes on stilts , as well as for its traditional architecture, unique culture, and beautiful landscapes. 

Chiloé Island is also well known for its impressive wooden churches , which were built in the 18th and 19th centuries and are now declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

The island is also home to several national parks and nature preserves , with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as kayaking, hiking, and whale watching.  

Chiloé Island is also known for its many types of potatoes – locals will tell you there are over 400 different types! You’ll find potatoes in many dishes, including the curanto, which is cooked underground for hours.

Recommended Experience – Coastal Villages Tour of Chiloé from Castro 

7. Elqui Valley 

The Elqui Valley is a beautiful region located between Santiago and the Atacama Desert. Known for its clear skies, picturesque villages, and production of Pisco, the Elqui Valley is one of the most interesting places to visit in Chile. 

The valley is surrounded by stunning mountain ranges and is famous for its pisco brandy, Chile’s most popular liquor. It’s also known for producing some of the best wines and fruit in the country and is the most northern wine region in the country. 

The Elqui Valley is also well-known for its clear skies, which make it an ideal destination for stargazing, and the region has several astronomical observatories . 

Recommended Experience – 5-Day Exploration of the Elqui Valley & Humboldt Penguins National Reserve

8. The Hand of the Desert 

La Mano del Desierto, or Hand of the Desert , is an impressive statue near Antofagasta in the Atacama Desert. 

This unique sculpture depicts a giant hand rising out of the sand and some say it represents mankind’s ability to rise no matter the circumstances, while others say it’s about the isolation and vulnerability in the vastness of the desert.

Either way, it’s an impressive site to see!

9. Iquique 

Iquique is a coastal city in northern Chile, known for its stunning beaches and rich history . The historic mining town boasts a unique architectural style, with many historic buildings and monuments dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. 

But it’s Iquique’s beaches that are the major attraction. Known for warm waters and excellent surfing conditions , Iquique’s beaches are a great spot to relax for a few days. The surfing here is said to be the best in the country, and many places offer lessons for beginners or experienced surfers. 

Or for those who would rather not surf, the sand dunes of the Atacama Desert are perfect for sand boarding.  

While many people don’t explore the north of Chile, Iquique is a spot you shouldn’t miss. 

10. Colchagua Valley

Chile is well known for its wine and the Colchagua Valley is one of the premier wine-producing regions in the country. This area is known for producing some of the world’s best red wines, and many of the wineries and vineyards offer tours and tastings to visitors.

In addition to its wine production, the Colchagua Valley is also known for its picturesque landscapes that are perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and horseback riding.

Self-guided cycling tours of the wineries are also a fun way to explore the Colchagua Valley.

11. Chilean Lake District

Chile’s Lake District is a stunningly beautiful region in the foothills of the Andes Mountains in the southern part of Chile. With its breathtaking scenery, vibrant culture, and endless opportunities for adventure, the Chilean Lake District is considered one of the best places to visit in Chile.

Boasting crystal-clear lakes, snow-capped volcanoes, thick forests, and picturesque towns, this area resembles the alpine regions of Europe and is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts . You’ll find a wide range of activities, such as hiking, kayaking, canoeing, white water rafting, horseback riding, and in the winter, skiing as well.

There are plenty of national parks in this region as well, including Cochamó, which is known as Chile’s “Yosemite”, Vicente Perez Rosales National Park, and Villarrica National Park, which is home to one of Chile’s most active volcanoes.  

It’s also worth exploring the charming towns and villages in the area. While the landscape resembles the alpine regions of Europe, you’ll also find many traditions and architecture from Switzerland, Austria, and Germany, as the area was colonized by the Germans in the late 1800s. 

Pucón is a must for the outdoor enthusiast and is known for its stunning Villarrica volcano , which towers over the town and is a popular hiking destination. The town is also home to natural hot springs , which are the perfect way to relax after a long day of exploring. Visitors can also enjoy white-water rafting on the Trancura River, horseback riding through the surrounding countryside, and hiking in the beautiful Huerquehue National Park.

The Lake District is also home to the Mapuche , Chile’s oldest and largest indigenous tribe, who have preserved their traditions and customs and kept their culture alive.

12. Carretera Austral 

The Carretera Austral, which means “Southern Highway”, is a famous route that stretches over 1,200 kilometers from Puerto Montt to Villa O’Higgins through some of the most stunning landscapes in Chile. 

Pass by towering mountains, dense forests, pristine lakes, and glaciers. The Carreterra Austral is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts , with several national parks and a wide range of activities, including hiking, kayaking, and mountain biking. 

Along the route, at General Carrera Lake, are the stunning Marble Caves , which are actually made from calcium carbonate and have been eroded by water over the years, creating an unusual and beautiful cave system. 

The Carreterra Austral continues to the small village of Villa O’Higgins in Patagonia, which is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, turquoise lakes, and countless glaciers. 

13. Tierra del Fuego

Visiting Patagonia is an unforgettable experience. Nicknamed the “End of the World”, this rugged and remote region at the southern tip of South America offers stunning landscapes of glaciers, snow-capped mountains, and pristine lakes. 

This stunning area is home to colonies of Magellanic and Humboldt penguins, as well as sea lions and dolphins and you may even spot some humpback whales playing in the water. 

There you can hike through ancient forests, kayak through pristine waters, or marvel at the glaciers and fjords.

Visiting the Chilean fjords is an awe-inspiring experience that is not to be missed. Explore the fjords by boat, kayak, or even by helicopter, taking in the incredible vistas and getting up close with the abundant wildlife, including penguins, sea lions, and whales. 

Chile Travel Tips

How to get around chile.

Getting around Chile is relatively easy, and inexpensive compared to North America. Buses are the most common form of public transportation and are widely available throughout the country, with both local and long-distance routes. Chile is a long country though, and given the distance, domestic flights are also a good way to get around. 

Several airlines offer regular services between major cities and smaller regional airports. Taxis and rental cars are also available, although driving in Chile can be challenging due to the country’s mountainous terrain and narrow roads.

When is the best time to visit Chile?

The best time to visit Chile depends on the region and activities you plan to do. 

Generally, the best time to visit Chile is during the summer months, from December to February , when the weather is warm and dry, and outdoor activities are at their best. This is an excellent time to visit the central region, including Santiago, the wine country, and the coastal cities. 

The shoulder season, from September to November and March to May, can also be a great time to visit, with fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures. 

However, if you’re interested in skiing or winter sports, the winter months (June to August) are the best time to visit the Andes Mountains. 

The southern region of Chile, including Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego, has a more temperate climate and can be visited year-round, although the summer months offer the most daylight hours and the best weather for outdoor activities. 

Is Chile an expensive place to visit? 

Chile can be an expensive country to visit, especially compared to other countries in South America. 

The cost of travel will depend on your travel style and the region you visit. The major cities, such as Santiago and Valparaiso, tend to be more expensive than smaller towns and villages, with higher prices for accommodations, dining, and transportation.

In general, the northern region of Chile is more affordable than the central and southern regions. It’s also worth noting that prices can vary depending on the season, with peak travel times being more expensive. 

Overall, while Chile may not be the cheapest destination in South America, it’s still possible to travel on a budget with some planning and flexibility.

What is the currency in Chile?

The currency in Chile is the Chilean peso. Major credit cards are accepted in most places, but it’s also recommended to carry some cash for smaller purchases and markets.

Final Thoughts: Best Places to Visit in Chile

Chile offers a wide range of attractions for tourists, from the natural wonders of Torres del Paine and the Atacama Desert to the cultural and historic landmarks of Santiago and Valparaiso, to the unique Polynesian-Chilean blend of Easter Island. 

Each of these destinations is worth a visit and will provide visitors with a memorable and unforgettable experience.

Written by Erin Martin

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10 Best Places in Chile to Visit

If you are planning to visit Chile in South America, this travel blog highlights the best places to visit in Chile.

We have visited Chile a few times now, each time discovering a new place as Chile holds the record for being the longest country in the world.

Hi, we’re Rach & Marty!

We’ve visited every country in the world and want to help you get the most out of your travels!

Whether you need an expertly planned itinerary , some experienced hints and tips , or just craving a delicious food adventure , we’ve got you covered!

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So when travelling around the country, you might need to fly between cities unless you have plenty of time to overland.

But if you do, there is a great network of buses connecting the cities.

From the Atacama Desert to the peaks of the National Park of Torres Del Paine, here are the 10 best places to visit in Chile.

Table of Contents

1. Easter Island – The Mystical Moai Statues

Beginning with not just one of the best places in Chile to visit, but one of the coolest places on planet Earth, Easter Island.

You may have already seen ancient stone giants known as Moai Statues in photos or documentaries. This truly unique place is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

If you love archeological sites, check out our detailed look at the best archeological places in the world (most of them we have visited).

To get to Easter Island, you first need to fly to Santiago de Chile.

You’ll need to take a connecting flight from Santiago to Mataveri International Airport on Easter Island.

The flight from Santiago to Easter Island takes approximately 5 hours. LATAM Airlines is the primary carrier operating flights to Easter Island, and there are usually a few flights per week.

The cheapest return flight is around USD 380 per person.

Skyscanner is permanently bookmarked on our browser! We use it all the time to research and book travel options for your trip, including flights, hotels and car hire.

2. Atacama Desert – Stargazing Paradise

For all you stargazers out there, the Atacama Desert is an otherworldly experience.

With some of the clearest skies on the planet, this is the ultimate destination for star enthusiasts. Just imagine lying beneath a blanket of stars, surrounded by the eerie silence of the desert – an experience that will leave you in awe.

To reach this place, you need to get to the small town of San Pedro de Atacama.

The closest airport is Calama, or you could take a bus, but it is a 24-hour journey from Santiago. But some travellers also take a bus from Bolivia.

Book your bus ticket online with Bookaway .

3. Torres del Paine National Park – Patagonian Wonderland

Chile is known for its incredible nature, and if you ask any hiker, they will probably tell you that one of the best places in Chile to hike or visit is the stunning Torres del Paine National Park. This is the ultimate gem of Patagonia!

Think stunning landscapes, rugged mountains, and turquoise lakes. 

You can visit on a day trip or join a small group day hike to the base of the mountains.

But for most people, this is the place to go to do/hike the very famous W Trek, which takes 5 days. You can hire hiking gear from several small shops and hostels in Puerto Natales, the closest town. There are plenty of flights and buses connecting the city.

Choose to hike the W Trek independently (recommended for experienced trekkers with the right gear), or book this 5-Day W Trek Express trip , which takes care of logistics and has some excellent inclusions.

Read more: Torres del Paine National Park – The Ultimate Guide

And if you are exploring South America, you can also take a bus to Argentina to visit the famous Perito Moreno in Patagonia.

We loved seeing this incredible glacier and wrote a detailed blog on visiting the Perito Moreno here .

4. Valparaiso – Street Art Extravaganza

If you love colourful cities, Valparaiso will quickly win your heart. Prepare to be dazzled by the vibrant streets and maze-like alleys, explore hidden gems, and soak in the bohemian atmosphere of this artistic haven. 

There is a thriving craft beer culture and if you need a day on the beach, it’s easy to head out to Vina del Mar only 8 km away along the coast.

Getting to Valparaiso is very easy, and multiple buses depart from the capital city of Santiago throughout the day. It takes only 2.5 hours.

If you’ve only got time to take a day trip to Valparaiso from Santiago, then this Vineyard, Valparaíso, and Viña del Mar Tour is recommended; an excellent way to discover the culture, history, art, wine, and cuisine of the central region of Chile.

5. Chiloé Island – Mythical Mists and Palafitos

Step into a world of myths and legends on Chiloé Island. Located in the Lakes District, the closest place to fly to is the town of Puerto Montt.

Marvel at the iconic palafitos (stilt wooden houses) lining the coast, watch the waves of the Pacific and see the cute penguin colony in Puñihuil.

You can immerse yourself in the unique folklore, including tales of ghost ships and forest-dwelling creatures. 

This full-day Chiloé Island tour from Puerto Montt or Puerto Varas is fantastic.

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6. Puerto Varas – Volcanos and Lakes

Nestled beside the stunning Llanquihue Lake and surrounded by snow-capped volcanoes, Puerto Varas is a haven for those seeking some downtime.

Stroll along the charming waterfront, indulge in local cuisine with a view, and embark on boat trips to explore the stunning landscapes. 

We loved the weekend markets in Puerto Varas and enjoyed the city’s relaxed vibes.

You can join one of these tours to get a better look at one of the volcanoes.

7. Santiago – Urban Vibes and Mountain Backdrops

Chile’s capital, Santiago, blends urban sophistication with stunning natural beauty.

Marvel at the Andes towering over the city skyline, then dive into the lively street markets and trendy neighbourhoods such as the Barrio Italia and historic sites.

You can spend 2 days here to see the best places in Santiago. 

• 🔥 Hot Tip: Book accommodation in advance on Booking.com
• 🎟 Book your attractions and tickets online: We recommend Viator and GetYourGuide
• 🔋 Stay charged: This Belkin Power Bank is essential!
• 📸 Join a Group Tour: Find some amazing Group Tours here
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8. Pucon – Adventure Playground

Are you looking for more than just urban cities, perhaps something more thrilling? 

Pucon is Chile’s adventure capital, nestled beside the picturesque Villarrica volcano and Lake Villarrica.

Strap on your hiking boots, grab a kayak paddle or try your hand at volcano climbing for an adrenaline-packed experience surrounded by stunning landscapes.

Want more action-packed adventures in Pucon? View more tours here.

9. Wine Tasting in the Colchagua Valley

If you’re familiar with the Tuscany region in Italy or the Napa Valley in California, which produces excellent wines, one of the best places in Chile to visit for wine lovers is Colchagua Valley.

Indulge your taste buds renowned for its exceptional vineyards and world-class wineries that produce  Carménère, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot .

Stroll through the scenic vineyards, savouring some of Chile’s finest wines, and discover the art of winemaking in this lush and picturesque valley.

We recommend this Full Day Private Colchagua Wine Tour from Santiago

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10. Punta Arenas – Gateway to Antarctica

For the ultimate adventure, head to Punta Arenas, the southernmost city in Chile. From here, you can embark on an expedition to Antarctica.

This once-in-a-lifetime experience will take you to the frozen continent and leave you with unforgettable memories of the Earth’s southernmost reaches. 

Get ready to check off a bucket list item and witness the breathtaking landscapes of Antarctica.

We have travelled to Antarctica from Ushuaia, Argentina, and our best tips for Antarctica may help you prepare.

Final thoughts on the best places in Chile to visit

These are our ten best places to visit in Chile. As you can see, Chile is a country packed with diversity.

Did we miss a place you have visited and loved? Let us know in the comments below.

Make sure you get Travel Insurance before hitting the road. We recommend Heymondo & SafetyWing Travel Insurance.

Click here and get 5% off Heymondo from us!

If you enjoyed this post, take advantage of these 15 best places to visit in South America. And, if you like to try new foods on your travels, these Top 5 Popular Foods in South America will satisfy you.

If you have the time and budget to travel to Argentina after exploring Chile, we highly recommend that you do! Argentina is an exciting country to visit; it’s also one of the 5 Cheapest Countries in South America to Travel .

Our 2 Days in Buenos Aires Itinerary includes the highlights of this beautiful city, and we suggest stopping by one of these 16 Best Restaurants in Buenos Aires  to enjoy excellent cuisine.

And, if you’re heading north to explore Colombia, this is the perfect itinerary for 2 Days in Bogota . And the colourful town of Salento, nestled in the lush countryside, is unmissable.

Our post about the 10 Best Things to Do in Salento explains why you must visit this gorgeous place.

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🏥 Travel Insurance : We recommend Heymondo ( Get 5% off Heymondo)  & SafetyWing

🚌 Transportation : Trainline is the best website to reserve trains. We use Omio to book transport worldwide. For travel in Asia, we use 12Go.  

🚘 Car Rental : We use DiscoverCars to book rental cars worldwide.

👫 Group Tours :  G Adventures OR compare multi-day tours worldwide with Tourradar .

📸 Day Tours & Trips :  GetYourGuide  & Viator are the only two platforms you need.

📚 Lonely Planet: The Best Range of Travel Guides & Ebooks , and FREE Shipping! (use code RACHELDAVEY10 for a 10% discount)

🎒 Luggage :  Osprey Farpoint 40L Backpack  or  Samsonite Luggage Range.

🛄 What to Pack:  Don’t forget your Universal charger and a good  power bank .  To help you pack the essentials, here is our ULTIMATE Packing List for all Travellers .

🐶 Become a House Sitter:  Join Trusted Housesitters and enjoy FREE accommodation worldwide. Use our invite to receive 25% off your new membership.

💰 Send Money Anywhere: WISE  &  Revolut  are the best online accounts that let you send money, get paid, and spend money internationally. Both are so easy to use and way cheaper than any bank transfer.

📶  Stay Connected: Airalo eSIM allows you to get connected the moment you land at your destination, and you can avoid those expensive data roaming charges. We LOVE this product! Use promo code NOMAD15 for 15% off ALL eSIMs (new Airalo users only) OR use NOMAD10 for 10% off ALL eSIMs (for existing Airalo users)

✅ Check out our Travel Gear  and  Travel Resources for more valuable tips to save you money!

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12 Things You Must Know Before You Travel to Chile (2022 Updated)

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Last Update : July, 27th 2022

Planning a trip to Chile?

2020 was a bad year for travelers, with most borders being closed as “stay home” became the norm. And while most of us started traveling from home (thank you, internet), nothing will ever replace a trip to a beautiful place .

And if you’re thinking about Chile, you probably know this is one of the most beautiful destinations on the planet . But there’s so much to learn about our favorite country in South America. Here’s a quick guide so you can get familiar with Chile and get ready for a trip of a lifetime with some useful information.

¡Buen viaje!

1. Chile is amongst the safest countries on Earth

2. chile is more expensive than its neighbors, but incredibly rewarding, 3. chile is covid-19 vaccination champion in south america, 4. if you plan an adventure in chile, you may have to train first, 5. the best time to travel to chile is not always when you think, 6. distances in chile are long, 7. chileans speak a very unusual spanish, 8. border crossing to argentina can be tricky in some places, 9. the visa and vaccines you need to travel to chile, 10. chileans have some curious social rules, 11. how to eat like a chilean in chile, 12. these are the best places to visit in chile.

Chile is a very safe destination for travelers in South America. According to the Global Peace Index (updated every year), Chile currently ranks as the 27 th safest country on the planet. It is usually considered the safest country in South America, together with Uruguay. Thanks to its low crime rates and nice behavior towards travelers, the “thin country” can be considered a very safe destination (especially if you visit its spectacular national parks).

Chile is the most developed country in South America , and some travelers like to talk about it as the “most European-like country in Latin America”. It is therefore an expensive country compared to its neighbors Bolivia, Peru and Argentina, and you should take a look at the updated exchange rate before you travel to Chile (the local currency is the Chilean peso).

To give you an idea, restaurant costs are on a par with the US for similar level restaurants. Prices vary tend to vary a lot from a place to another (for instance, prices in Patagonia are usually higher than the ones in central Chile). But whether it has to do with the food or with the excursions, it is usual to get more than what you pay for ! There is some excellent Chilean cuisine and both the guides and the travel experiences are incredibly rewarding.

And if you’re on low budget, don’t worry! There are plenty of alternatives, such as simpler restaurants and delicious street food; and more accessible travel experiences.

Worried about COVID-19? We are too! However, we are optimistic regarding the near future as Chile became a COVID-19 vaccination champion in South America . Health experts and government officials credit the country’s early negotiations with vaccine producers and in July 2022, more than 90% of the objective population was vaccinated (with up to 4 doses!). The country of 19 million inhabitants is an example in Latin America , often named in world’s Top 3 together with Israel and the United States.

Check out the complete guide on what you need to travel to Chile during the COVID-19 pandemic here.

Despite the intensity of the coronavirus waves that have hit the country, the country is already a "new normal". These are great news for tourism, isn’t it?

Chile is amongst the best adventure travel destinations in the world. It was awarded 6 times as the “World’s Leading Adventure Travel Destination” in the World Travel Awards , the “Oscars of tourism”. But be careful when it comes to choosing your adventure! Some of them are really demanding and require some previous training.

Some experiences are accessible for everyone , like a trip to the Atacama Desert or a Wildlife Safari in Torres del Paine National Park . However, Patagonia’s most popular multiday hikes are quite demanding. The W Trek requires at least some regular trail walking. As for the epic “O Trek” (Torres del Paine Circuit), the Dientes de Navarino Circuit and the Cerro Castillo Circuit , these are for the experienced hikers only. The terrain is irregular, hiking distances are long and include some steep uphill. In short, you’d better check out the details on the level of difficulty of the trip you’re interested in before taking the final decision.

Chile is a land of extremes. You’ll find the driest desert on Earth in north (the Atacama Desert) and the world’s third freshwater reserve in the south (the Patagonian ice fields). That’s what makes Chile a hard place to understand when it comes to scheduling a trip.

While most people think there is no rain at all in northern Chile, there may be some occasional heavy rain fall in summer, especially between December to March. This is due to the Altiplanic winter, a phenomenon that can cause storms in the Arica and Parinacota and in the Atacama regions.

In Patagonia, summer months (from December to March) are the busiest ones, but also the windiest. There is a “ best time to come ” for everyone, and this is how we could sum it up.

Best outdoor adventure weather: November to March

Best time to avoid the crowds: April to October (note: it may be difficult to find accommodation due to off-season from June to August).

Best time to spot wildlife: April to November

Chile extends 4,270 km (2,653 miles) from North to South, with an average of 177 km (110 mi) from East to West. Traveling from the Arica region to southern Patagonia would be the same as traveling from northern Scandinavia to Morocco!

You’ve got it: distances are long, and domestic flights usually take a few hours (for instance, it takes roughly 3,30 hours to get from Santiago to Punta Arenas). Besides the hours spent flying, you will also have to drive a lot, especially if you head to Patagonia. Getting to EcoCamp Patagonia from the Punta Arenas airport requires a 5 to 6-hour drive (a beautiful one)!

And if you plan to travel to Easter Island, remember that the “world’s most remote island” is located 3.759km (2.335mi) away from Santiago (a 5-hour and 40-minute flight).

“Cachai” “Piola” “Weon” “Bacán”: if you speak Spanish but do not understand these words, don’t worry! Chileans may speak the most peculiar Spanish in the world . The Royal Spanish Academy recognizes 2,214 words and idioms exclusively or mainly produced in Chilean Spanish, in addition to lots of unrecognized slang expressions.

But no panic! Chileans love to communicate with tourists and I bet you’ll be able to understand each other, even if you don’t speak Spanish at all.

Chile and Argentina are separated by a huge natural boundary : the Andes mountains. In Patagonia, the mountains get lower but the terrain is irregular, with lots of channels, ice fields and islands. At the border between Villa O’Higgins (Chile’s Aysén Region, the southernmost point of the Carretera Austral), vehicles are inaccessible. Here, you’ll have to take a boat, get a horse and walk 35 kilometers (22mi) if you want to cross to Argentina.

In most places, the immigration offices between both countries are miles apart, but crossing is easy if you have your own transfer or vehicle. If you travel by yourself, you should consider that some parts of Patagonia have no public transport to go through the border.

You won’t need a visa if you stay less than 90 days in the country (do not lose the small paper the immigration authorities will give you while entering Chile).

However, having your updated COVID-19 vaccines to enter the country is strongly recommended. While a negative PCR upon arrival is not compulsory any more, having your updated COVID-19 vaccines will allow you to get a "mobility pass" which is mandatory to enter many public places such as bars, restaurants and movie theaters ( more information here ).

Also, you must declare all products of plants and animal origin while entering into Chile (non-compliance with this obligation can be expensive!).

“Go to Chile and you’ll be welcomed with open arms” . This is a true statement. It is also true that Chileans have some traditions, mannerisms and customs that may leave you confused. Some of the funniest facts? Chileans add “-po” to virtually every word (for emphasis or just because locals feel like it). Chileans have lunch at around 2pm, and have “elevenses” in the evening. What does that mean? Well, it’s like having an afternoon tea, accompanied by bread with avocado, jam, paté or ham.

Everything stops for a football game , so streets may seem empty when Chile plays (but wait for the celebration if Chile wins!).

Finally, Chile is a seismic country. Chileans say there’s an earthquake only if it’s over 6 on the Richter scale . If it’s under 6 on Richter, some Chileans don’t even feel it. In these cases, they say it’s only a “temblor” (tremor).

There’s a new culinary world awaiting to be discovered in Chile! There is a rich and diverse range of dishes for everyone’s taste, though the famous ingredients include plenty of seafood (coastline), avocado, beef (the whole country) and lamb (Patagonia). There are also some amazing indigenous influences you will find in some regions (such as the Atacama Desert and the Araucanía region with the Mapuches), and you can get some incredible gourmet food in Chile’s main cities, especially in Santiago.

But the spirit of Chile can be tried on the street. You should definitely try the empanada (little puff pastry baked in the oven), the humita (corn mixed with onion and basil, in a preparation that is wrapped in maize leaves) and the completo (a local version of the hot-dog, that includes avocado).

No trip to Chile would be complete without an “asado”, a barbecue. “Asados” are the best excuse for Chileans to gather, making it the most important social occasion held all year round.

As for the beverages, Chile is worldwide famous for its delicious wine. You should also try the Pisco – a brandy produced in wine regions of Chile and Peru. And Chile also has some delicious beer!

We could write an entire book featuring Chile’s best places to visit . But if we had to sum it up, we would start with the Atacama Desert in the north, the world’s most arid desert. It stretches over 1000 kilometers of the Pacific coast to the border with Bolivia and Peru, offering a spectacular natural scenery. Here you’ll see the clearest sky on Earth, the incredible Tatio geysers and colorful lagoons above 3000 meters.

Further south, you should consider a trip to Valparaíso , Chile’s colorful port that is full of history. Santiago de Chile is worth a visit, with its vibrant streets, fascinating museums and delicious restaurants. Close to the country’s Metropolitan region, you could also go for some wine tasting in the beautiful wine valleys.

Another highlight is the Lake District , with its snowcapped volcanoes, German influence and vast lakes. Heading south you’ll reach Patagonia, with the stunning national parks of Chile’s Aysen Region. Here you can do the best road trip in South America while driving through the Carretera Austral, and do a hike of a lifetime through the Cerro Castillo National Park .

But the crown jewel of Patagonia is definitely Torres del Paine National Park , with its mesmerizing granite spires, abundant wildlife and spectacular hiking trails. You can stay at EcoCamp Patagonia , the world’s first geodesic hotel, to make your stay in Chile’s finest national park even better!

Another great place to hike is the Navarino island , home to the southernmost trek on Earth, “los dientes de Navarino”.

And we can’t talk about Chile without mentioning Easter Island (Rapa Nui), with its 1,000 monumental Moai statues in the heart of the Pacific Ocean.

Ready for your trip to Chile? Take a look at our adventures or contact us to make your dream adventure come true!

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Related posts.

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The Best Destinations in Chile for Adventure Travelers

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The Chilean Way

Want to learn more about the beautiful country of Chile? Download our insider’s guide to learn all the best travel tips and tricks.

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Updated October 4th, 2022

Dear Traveler,

We are very happy to announce that there are currently no travel restrictions in Chile. Together with the above mentioned, it is mandatory to comply with the following requirements:

• You only have to present the vaccination certificate issued in your country when boarding to Chile. Those who do not have their vaccinations must present a negative result in a PCR test dated less than 48 hours from departure to enter Chile. Those who are under 18 years of age do not have any requirements to enter Chile
• A negative PCR upon arrival is not compulsory any more but diagnostic tests will be carried out randomly at the entry point to Chile. Confirmed cases shall be isolated according to the general health regulations.
• Medical insurance covering any expenses caused by COVID-19 is not compulsory any more
• The use of a face mask is voluntary

In case you have any questions, we will be happy to help you!

The Team at Cascada Expediciones & EcoCamp Patagonia

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The 10 best places to visit in Chile

Chile has long been an unsung hero of Latin America – but we’re all for changing that. A country of magnificent contrasts and breath-taking natural beauty, it’s a place that incites the intrepid explorer in all of us. On our ventures, we’ve trekked into the heart of Patagonia’s untamed wilderness and seen the ruby-red terrain of the Atacama transform under the ethereal hues of starlight. We’ve floated over the luscious, rolling vineyards of the Colchagua Valley in hot air balloons and explored the vibrant neighborhoods of its buzzing capital, Santiago. And you can too. That’s why we’ve created this – our detailed guide to the best places to visit in Chile. And you won’t want to miss it.

1. Santiago

Chile’s charming capital – Santiago – is a sprawling, bustling metropolis. And the perfect starting point for adventures. Encircled by the snow-smeared peaks of the Andes Mountains and dotted with white-thorned vachellia caven brimming with bright yellow flowers – natural and urban elements intertwine perfectly here. Between striking neoclassical architecture and palm-scattered plazas, we’ll show you the best places to visit in Santiago. Just follow in our footsteps. Or those of our expert guides, at any rate. This is luxury travel in Chile, Black Tomato style.

Things to do in Santiago

Between visiting Cerro Santa Lucia with its glittering fountains and picturesque terraces and marveling at the intricate architecture of Catedral Metropolitana – our private guides will show you the very heart of the city. At Mercado Central, watch as locals haggle for the best Chilean ingredients. Fresh locos (sea snails), creamy chirimoya (custard apples), sweet maqui (Chilean wineberries). Amongst colorful produce-laden stalls, you’ll sample traditional dishes like seafood empanadas at one of the market’s many tucked-away restaurants.

But that’s not all. For unrivalled views of Santiago , we’ll take you to Parque Metropolitano. It’s here that Cerro San Cristobal’s iconic statue resides, reached by a winding stone walkway. By daylight, stood between clear blue skies and luscious greenery. By night, illuminated against a backdrop of darkness and twinkling city lights. It’s no wonder it’s one of the best tourist attractions in Chile. Next up? An evening spent sampling fine Chilean wines – and tasting some delicious Chilean cuisine. Don’t mind if you do.

Where to stay in Santiago

When it comes to the best places to stay in Santiago, we tried to narrow it down to just one. But we couldn’t. So we’ll tell you three instead.

First up, The Singular . This luxurious and tranquil retreat boasts elegant interior design with neoclassical features, soft lighting, and muted tones. Here, surrounded by picturesque churches and fascinating museums, it’s all about peaceful relaxation in the heart of downtown Santiago. Take a dip in the rooftop pool and feel your worries drift away as you look out over the glittering Lastarria neighborhood.

Another? Amid Santiago’s trendy El Centro district lies a beautifully preserved mansion decorated with original stained glass windows. Or Hotel Magnolia , as it’s otherwise known. Perfectly positioned close to all the city’s must-see sights, here you’ll wind your way through beautiful parks and historical monuments before heading up to the hotel’s private rooftop terrace – cocktail in hand. Alternatively, relax with an in-room massage in your private suite, surrounded by elegant art deco touches. Now that’s what we call service.

Encircled by glimmering skyscrapers, luxury boutiques, and its own luscious gardens, one of the most glamourous places to stay in Santiago has to be Mandarin Oriental Santiago . A serene oasis situated in the exclusive neighborhood of Las Condes (and one with its own lagoon-like swimming pool complete with waterfall), this is the perfect place to unwind. With stunning views of the Andes Mountains to the east and San Cristobal Hill to the west, everything is at your fingertips. Opting for the Executive Suite, you’ll have access to your very own spacious outdoor terrace overlooking the city skyline, perfect for watching the sunset – or for enjoying a private dinner beneath the stars. The choice is yours.

If you’d like to stay in one (or more) of these stylish retreats, our luxury Travel Experts will be happy to arrange it as part of your bespoke trip to Chile. Just say the word.

2. Torres Del Paine

Where sprawling ice fields meet snow-capped mountains, towering granite spires pierce vast open skies in the iconic Torres del Paine National Park. A breath-taking expanse of wilderness – this is one of the best places to visit in Chile. And every escapist’s dream. Here, you’ll head off the beaten path, tracking pumas and llama-like guanacos – keeping your eyes peeled for a rare sighting of the endangered Andean deer. Horse-riding through mesmerizing landscapes of ice and mighty peaks, you’ll weave your way through luscious valleys adorned with the vivid red flowers of Chilean fire trees.

To top it off, we’ll arrange for you to stay at an exclusive lodge truly at the heart of nature: Explora Patagonia . Perched overlooking the shores of the turquoise-tinted Lake Pehoe, this hidden retreat offers striking views of the Paine ridge and the iconic granite towers. Heading out into astoundingly beautiful landscapes (and the purest mountain air), you’ll hike and horse ride to your heart’s content. What more could you want from a Chilean adventure ? Except, perhaps, an indulgent soak in an open-air jacuzzi. Walk a few steps to the lodge’s Ona Bathhouses, you’ll have that too. Along with mesmerizing views of Lago Pehoe and Macizo del Paine.

3. Patagonia National Park

Home to glistening lakes, rugged peaks, and glittering glaciers, the untamed wilderness of Patagonia awaits. And with over 750,000 acres of picturesque landscapes, you’ll certainly be spoilt for choice. Here, peaceful remoteness and undisputed beauty go hand in hand in effortless harmony. This is a place for those hearing the call of the wild. We did – and still do. That’s why we sent a few of our team here for some in-depth field research – spending their days in the wilderness, exploring barely-trodden trails flanked by bright blue lagoons and clay-red peaks. One of their favorite activities? The Lagunas Altas full-day trek. It left them breathless – in the best possible way. And you can catch a behind-the-scenes glimpse of their adventures here .

But that’s not all. With the largest private land donation ever to be made by a private entity to a country and the conservation effort of the Tompkins Conservation Foundation, this captivating National Park has recently reached new heights. And you can be amongst the first to pioneer these new wilds . Just ask one of our luxury Travel Experts. They’ll make it happen.

A visit to Chile’s Atacama Desert isn’t quite a trip to Mars – but it’s not far off. Ruby-red sands and dust-coated rocky terrain stretch out before you in endless waves, dotted with steaming thermal pools, deep valleys, and ancient salt lakes. Made up of lunar landscapes peppered with towering cardon cacti and yareta cushion plants – light green bubble-like forms – it really is like landing on the surface of another planet. And yet (rather remarkably) to a wealth of exotic wildlife, this is home. Sand-colored grasshoppers and lava lizards blend with pebbles along the desert floor as red scorpions scuttle by, past the flamingo-filled waters of the salt flats, framed by the rugged peaks of the Andes. Of course, we had to explore this – one of Chile’s top tourist attractions – for ourselves. Yes, it was spectacular. And yes, you should go.

Another one of our favorite things to do in Chile’s Atacama? Stargaze. As night falls, another world comes to life – one of extra-terrestrial landscapes lit by the mesmerizing glow of star-blanketed skies. Shadows and starlight. Glimpses of galaxies far, far away. There’s nothing quite so magical as this.

Due to the high elevation and lack of humidity or light pollution, the desert is also home to ESO Paranal Observatory – a captivating hub of modern astronomy. And as part of your bespoke family trip, we’ll take you behind the scenes. On this Field Trip class, you’ll discover the machinery, research, and workings of this powerful observatory and visit the world’s most advanced optical telescope – perfect for spotting stars and distant planets. This location is also home to another famous place in Chile: the Paranal Residencia. Featuring as a backdrop for the renowned movie – Quantum of Solace – here, on the driest place on Earth, you’ll walk in the footsteps of the ultimate secret agent. James Bond , to be precise.

5. Easter Island

Shrouded in the myths and legends of the Rapa Nui, here ancient monumental statues rise above the vastness of the Pacific Ocean and thousands of wild horses roam free amid low sloping hills. This is Easter Island – one of the most remote inhabited islands in the world. And it’s home to one of the most spectacular tourist attractions in Chile – the moai. Enormous statues carved from solidified volcanic ash, the early Rapa Nui people are believed to have created these iconic heads to honor their ancestors and chiefs. With many of them erected along the coastline, they would watch over the settlements of their descendants with their backs facing the deep, mystical depths of the ocean – the spirit world. Or so the story goes.

On this UNESCO World Heritage Site, the grass-carpeted flanks of extinct volcanoes are peppered with archaeological sites, glistening freshwater lakes form in craters, and volcanic caves create jagged spaces beneath the island’s surface. Let the adventures begin.

We’ll take you hiking up historic hills, cycling past plantations and colorful towns, and relaxing in the shade of palm groves beside the tranquil waters of the Pacific. Winding your way through fields and intriguing archaeological sites, you’ll hike to the Ranu Raraku Moai quarry, where you’ll come face to face with the iconic moai statues. Next up? Climbing Maunga Kuma and Maunga Terevaka – the island’s highest point. From up here, you’ll look out at breath-taking views over the entire island and the glittering Pacific Ocean that extends beyond. It’s a wonder that humanity ever reached this far-flung corner of the world all those years ago. But it’s certainly no wonder why a visit to this beautifully wild island is one of our favorite things to do in Chile. Just say the word, and one of our luxury Travel Experts will make it happen.

6. Chiloé Archipelago

Off the coast of Southern Chile lies the Chiloé Archipelago. Dusted with luscious forests and rolling hills, this isolated group of islands is the perfect place to do as much (or as little) as you like. Staying at the sleek Tierra Chiloé – an idyllic rural retreat – you’ll have the chance to embark on a range of excursions, dine on delicious Indigenous dishes, and relax in the hotel’s soothing spa.

But that’s not all. Hopping aboard the Williche – Tierra Chiloé’s traditional boat – you’ll explore these fascinating islands to your heart’s content. Sailing past mountains and green-carpeted isles, you’ll come across South American sea lion colonies on rocky outcrops, keeping your eyes peeled for panda dolphins and blue whales as they dip beneath the waves. Feet back on dry land, you’ll explore the vibrant local culture. Weaving your way through the area’s variety of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, you’ll discover picturesque churches and fascinating museums before heading back to the spa for an indulgent massage – or a relaxing soak in the Jacuzzi. The choice is yours.

7. Valparaiso

A beautiful seaport city peppered with colorful houses, cobbled lanes, and vibrant street art, the delights of Valparaiso are not to be missed. Here, you’ll instantly feel immersed in the nautical lifestyle as we take you on a private tour around the port before embarking on a private boat ride to marvel at this multihued city from afar. Hiking up to the house of renowned artist, Pablo Neruda, you’ll look out at breath-taking views of the harbor. And then there’s the local cuisine. Amid the architectural beauty of the historic quarter (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), you’ll sample flavorsome Chilean dishes paired with local artisan beers. This is a true taste of South American culture. And you won’t want to miss it. After all, there’s a reason this picturesque city is often called ‘Paradise Valley’.

8. Your own private camp

Imagine your own luxury camp in one of the world’s most remote and untouched landscapes. Well, fortunately you don’t have to. This is Blink . With this exclusive service, our luxury Travel Experts will help you design your own fully bespoke pop-up hotel in the midst of breath-taking natural beauty. We’ll build it before you arrive, and then dismantle it once you’ve left. And one thing’s for certain: you’ll experience your own corner of the world in a way nobody else ever has. Or ever will. As they say – blink, and you’ll miss it.

What will your Blink camp include? Whatever you want. An innovative offering of outdoor accommodation and experiences, your tailor-made camp can include everything from private chefs and dining facilities to a mobile spa and on-site masseuse. Sourcing the most comfortable and luxurious ‘tents’ – you’ll feel as if you’re staying in a hotel suite (just one that’ll be taken down once you’ve gone). This is yours – and only yours. Now for the activities. Depending entirely on your tastes and your chosen destination, we’ll arrange an itinerary of activities and events for your whole trip – if you’d like us to, of course. Horse-riding, climbing, skiing, kayaking. The list goes on. Cocktail classes, foraging expeditions, helicopter adventures. And on.

This is luxury travel like never before. And, we may be slightly biased, but staying in one of our Blink camps is one of our favorite things to do in Chile. Whether you choose the surging valleys and towering peaks of Patagonia or the red-dusted landscapes of the Atacama – there’s nothing quite like it.

9. The Chilean Lake District

In the Andean foothills of Southern Chile, luscious landscapes are dotted with glittering, emerald-tinted lakes. This is the Chilean Lake District . The perfect place to experience nature at its most pure; at its most rugged and fresh. A haven for cyclists, kayakers, and hikers – and a popular destination for family trips – here, nature-filled adventures and gourmet picnics are the order of the day. Spend the morning cycling beside the magnificent snow-capped Osorno Volcano, kayaking across beautifully clear waters, or hiking up ice-capped mountains. Each day, you’ll enjoy unforgettable picnic lunches amid lush greenery and snow-smeared peaks as you look out onto sun-dappled glacial lakes. Breathing in the crisp, fresh air and the mesmerizing views – this is alfresco dining at its most breath-taking.

For a dash of sweetness, head to the lakeside town of Futrono for a taste of their mouth-watering jams. Made from maqui (Chilean wineberries) found in the surrounding countryside, you’ll savor their sugary and yet slightly tart notes before venturing back out into the Chilean wilds.

10. Maipo Valley

At the foot of the Andes Mountains, sprawling vineyards unfurl in endless waves. This is the Maipo Valley. The birthplace of the Chilean wine industry, this historic wine-producing region boasts over 7000 acres of fragrant, luscious vineyards encircled by snow-capped mountains. And just outside the city of Santiago, we’ll take you to one of our favorites – Viña El Principal. A small family-owned winery, here you’ll discover the perfect combination of climate, soil, and altitude which gives their wines a distinct (and entirely delicious) character. Uncovering the secrets behind Chile’s famous wine production, you’ll taste their finest reds with lunch in the sunshine, surrounded by grape-laden vines waiting to be plucked.

As the closest wine region to Chile’s capital, a visit to this peaceful valley combined with the vibrant streets of Santiago makes for the perfect pairing. Tempted? Speak to one of our luxury Travel Experts and they’ll plan your trip exactly as you’d like it.

Curious about Chile?

Whether you’re dreaming of the ruby-red landscapes of the Atacama, the breath-taking wilderness of Patagonia, or the vibrant streets of Santiago – we can’t wait to hear from you and start planning your trip. Entirely bespoke.

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50+ Amazing Places To Hike In Chile

T he beautiful country of Chile could be the answer to your outdoor adventure bucket list! Did you know that there are more than 52 amazing places to hike in Chile? Yes, you are reading this right!

There are truly amazing places to hike in Chile ranging from the stunning Atacama Desert to the glacier-filled national parks of Patagonia in the south. With its diverse landscapes and breathtaking scenery, Chile offers a wealth of opportunities for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts to explore its natural wonders.

52 Amazing Places To Hike In Chile 

Whether you prefer a challenging trek through rugged terrain or a leisurely stroll through picturesque valleys, there is a hiking trail in Chile to suit every taste and fitness level. From the iconic Torres del Paine circuit to the lesser-known but equally stunning Cochamó Valley, Chile’s hiking trails are sure to leave visitors awestruck and inspired.

Below, I share details of the best hikes in Chile that happen to also be some of the world’s most spectacular hiking trails. Review each of them to help you find the most panoramic views and hiking experience.

Where is Chile? Chile is located in eastern South America. Chile is bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west, Argentina to the east, and Bolivia and Peru to the north.

One of the world’s longest hiking trails is found in Chile, connecting 17 national parks stretching 1,700 miles from Puerto Montt in the north to Cape Horn in the south.

The Route of Parks , as the trail is called allows travelers to explore Chilean Patagonia’s most epic landscapes along a spectacular scenic route including the Andes Mountains, rain forests, lakes, and several volcanoes.

Fun Fact: Most first-time travellers to Chile, who want to visit Patagonia choose the Patagonia National Park of Torres del Paine.

1. Huerquehue NP

The world’s best hiking places happen to be in Chile. And Huerquehue NP is just one of them. Its forested highlands and lake-strewn environment simply make it a beautiful hiking place you shouldn’t miss out on.

2. Torres del Paine National Park

Torres del Paine is one of the most famous hiking areas in Chile. You can bring your family to the Torres del Paine National Park and enjoy a smaller hike and the amazing landscapes you will get to see as you do your wonderful walks around the area. 

You can also take a longer hike such as the W Trek. This is Torres del Paine’s most famous hiking route, with views of the granite towers that give the park its name. There is also the big circuit, also known as “O”- or fool loop- is a trek. The O Circuit is a 68 mile (93 kilometer) and known as the most extreme hike in Torres del Paine National Park and takes most at least eight days to complete.

If you choose to hike Torres del Paine, be aware it is infamous for its strong winds that have been known to reach up to 100mph and to knock hikers off their feet!

3. Cani Sanctuary

Want some thrill while hiking? Cani Sanctuary is just right for you. Its breathtaking views of nearby volcanoes will surely leave you in awe that you don’t want to leave the place anymore. It’s a good place to stay to escape from the hustle and bustle of your city. It provides an eco-friendly ambiance. And if you are a nature lover, you are surely in the right place!

4. Villarrica NP

Do you want more adventure? Try visiting Villarrica NP, and you will surely enjoy peering into its lava-filled crater. This place has a bit of almost everything that you can multi-day walk in it while enjoying Chile’s borderlands.

5. Sierra Nevada

If you want to add drama to your multi-day trek, Sierra Nevada can definitely give you that dramatic experience you want. This snowy place will surely keep you cool, too! These towering snow-capped mountains offer some of the most thrilling climbs on earth. So, grab that favorite pair of hiking boots and let’s trek!

6. Juan Fernandez Islands

Have you been to Paradise? Juan Fernandez Islands is actually a paradise in its own right. Approximately 667 kilometers off the coast of Chile lies this proverbial deserted paradise.

7. Vicente Perez Rosales NP

You will surely marvel at the abundance of its exotic birds as you walk on its lush river valleys. The volcanic beauty of Volcan Osorno will surely leave you in awe especially when you gaze up at its glaciers.

Related Article: 7 Great Things to Do in the Atacama Desert of Chile

8. Easter Island

Do you want to time travel back to the past? Easter Island can bring you to the ancient times. It is a remote island that once had rich crafts and culture. Despite the loss of the indigenous people of old, amazingly, their heritage has been preserved through the statues found in the area.

9. Laguna Captren

Are you a green thumb? Take a glimpse at the drowned trees located at the bottom of Laguna Captren while hiking. The reflection of the beautiful creatures on its small lake which was formed 50 years ago is really fascinating.

10. Cochamo Valley

Cochamo Valley is a 300-year old trade trail found in Chile’s northernmost part. To complete your one-day trek in this valley, you may bring your tent and hammocks with you, and try to spend one night camping after your long walk.

Fun Fact: Outside of Antarctica, the largest contiguous ice field in the Southern Hemisphere is the Southern Patagonian Ice Fields in the Andes Mountains of Chile and Argentina.

11. Conguillio NP

This place provides a perfect setting for a Hollywood movie because of its ancient volcanoes and forests.

12. Laguna del Laja NP

Located in Northern Araucania, Laguna del Laja showcases barren lava fields, attractive waterfalls, and beautiful lakes.

13. Volcan Villarica

Volcan Villarica is a good place to climb, but its dramatic change in the weather conditions, creating a risk of sulfurous gases emitted at the crater allows hikers to finish their walk earlier.

14. Volcan Antuco

Everyone is invited to climb to Volcan Antuco’s summit. The peak of Volcan Antuco provides a stunning of the deep waters of Laguna de Laja.

15. Salto las Chilcas and Salto Torbellino

Enjoy the serene interlude these places offer every hiker. These two are located in Laguna de Laja.

16. Cerro Quinchol and San Sebastian

Their summits allow every hiker to see the stunning views reaching out across the ancient Araucanian landscape of Chile.

17. Ultima Esperanza

This place is a separate province in the southern part of Chile with fascinating landscapes, too!

18. Norte Grande

This place has amazing curve stones and rocks. It has lagoons, volcanoes, and a beautiful coastline.

19. Sur Chico

It is home to spectacular national parks of Chile which regularly invites outdoor enthusiasts and devil-may-care adventurer.

Aysen is located in the Northern part of Patagonia. Its glaciers and lush rainforests are just a few of the amazing features this place has. The Aysén Region is along the Carretera Austral also known as Chile’s Route 7. The highway runs south for about 1,240 kilometers from Puerto Montt to Villa O’Higgins, passing through rural Patagonia. 

One of the least known hikes in this area is the Cerro Castillo National Park. Cerro Castillo also known as Castle Mountain, is a 7,600 ft. (2,320m) peak of Cerro Castillo that few hikers manage to reach. For less adventurous hikers, a full-day excursion and shorter day treks allow excellent vantage points of the magifcent mountain views in the Cerro Castillo National Reserve.

This place is home to rich spiritual culture based on distinctive mythology of ghost ships, forest gnomes, and witchcraft.

Chepu is the northern sector of Chiloe, which remains its sanctuary of pristine beauty. In this place, you will find gorgeous rivers and stunning coastline which attract every tourist.

23. Parque Tantauco

This park is home to native foxes, indigenous small deer, and native otters, among others. This is a great place for camping, hiking, and watching wildlife.

24. El Morado Glacier Trek

Want to see glaciers up closer? This is the best place to go. This not a frequented area so it is not congested. You can bring your family here for a simple, intimate get together.

25. The Chilean Lake District

The name itself suggests that is place is home to the beautiful lakes, waterfalls, rivers in our country. It has an outstanding beauty that everybody loves .

26. Santiago

Santiago is the cultural heart of Chile. It is the home of the popular poet Pablo Neruda. It is where great museums like Museo Chile de Arte are housed.

27. Pochoco

Pochoco is the best place to hike in Chile and enjoy the view of the mountains. It has diverse trail conditions each hiker needs to be ready for.

Best Hikes and Treks in Atacama

The Atacama desert stretches for approximately 1000 km beside the Pacific coast and is one of the driest places on Earth. It is about 1350 miles from Patagonia.

The vast array of hiking trails that weave through the Atacama Desert offer stunning panoramic views in every direction, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in a unique and fictional landscape filled with rugged plains, expansive volcanoes, and striking contrasts.

28. The Atacama Desert

This desert located in Northern Chile is known for being the driest place on Earth, NASA reports say. It has fascinating landscapes that contain a mixture of sand and lava and salt lakes. It has hot springs where you can soak yourself after a long day.

29. Valle de la Muerte

Valley of Death, also known as Valle de Marte, is in the middle of the Cordillera de la Sal, just 2 kilometers from San Pedro de Atacama.

Moonlight walks are great in this place also known as “Death Valley”. Things you can do in Valle de la Muerte include horseback riding, hiking, sand boarding and of course hiking.

30. Moon Valley National Park

El Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon) is located 13 kilometres (8 mi) west of San Pedro de Atacama, in the north of Chile in the Cordillera de la Sal, in the Atacama desert.

When was the last time you saw truly beautiful rock formations? Well, you can find that here. Formations even look like the surface of the moon. You can also find sand formations here. They were formed due to thousands of years of flooding and winds.

31. San Pedro de Atacama

This is one of Chile’s hottest tourist destinations as it is found in the driest desert in the world. It has been said that it hasn’t seen rain since the year 1870.

The three most popular hiking trails in San Pedro de Atacama are Cornices Trail, Cerro Toco and Gringo Trail.

Best Treks in Patagonia

In the southernmost part of South America, Patagonia occupies 260,000 square miles spanning Argentina and Chile. The Chilean Patagonia region is known for dramatic mountain peaks, an abundance of glaciers and of unique wildlife.

32. Monte Fritz Roy

Monte Fritz Roy continues to be the most stunning trekking area Patagonia, Chile has to offer. 

33. Futaleufu River

The Futaleufú River, located in northern Patagonia, flows from a chain of high, sunny lakes in Argentina. It is one of the premier whitewater rivers in the world. It is also one of only two rivers to cross the 5,308 kilometer Chile-Argentina border and is part of the UNESCO protected Los Alerces National Park in Argentina. It also runs through the glaciated area of the Chilean mountains.

34. Punta Arenas

Punta Arena is found near the tip of Patagonia. It connects the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. Tourists come to Punta Arenas as their bases for traveling to Antarctica. 

The sun rises from the sea and sets in the mountains here and there are some great options for hikes. Out pick is to hike the Magallanes National Reserve.

West of Punta Arenas, about 9 minutes by car, there are some well-developed, low-difficulty trails that are very well maintained. Full trails take about 3 to 4 hours. They are ideal for families and anyone who prefers an easy, but pretty trail. There are lookouts where you can view Las Minas River, the city, the Strait of Magellan and nearby islands.

Strait of Magellan Hikes & Treks

35. Los Pinguinos Natural Monument

The Los pinguinos monument natural was created in 1966 to preserve a breeding area for the penguins, as well as a habitat for other migratory birds. It is located in Patagonia on Isla Magdalena, a small island located in the Strait of Magellan and two hours from Punta Arenas, which is the biggest city in the Magellanes Region of Chile.

It is home to more than 120,000 penguins. It is an ultimate photo opportunity.

There are two ways to get to Magdalena Island; by ferry from Punta Arenas or with an organized tour.

Once on the island, you can follow a marked path that winds between penguin burrows. This is truly a once in a lifetime experience for most people!

Valparaíso Area Hikes & Treks

Valparaíso is Chile’s third largest metropolitan area after Santiago and Concepción.

36. Viña del Mar

Next to Valparaiso, this city is a great place to wander. You can walk down the beach while seeing the horizons and smelling the ocean breeze. And if you’re already tired of listening to the sea waves, you can go to its cafes, casinos, or seaside restaurants.

The top choice for a hike near Viña del Mar is Mirador El Amasijo in Parque Nacional La Campana. There are several trail options that are good for mountain biking, trail running, and walking.

With a beautiful lake and an imposing volcano located at the middle of the Southern Lake District, this place offers a variety of recreational activities like white water rafting, horseback riding, kayaking, water skiing, among others and it truly one of the most spectacular places to hike in Chile.

38. Lauca National Park

One of the world’s highest lakes, Lago Chungara, is the most spectacular spot in Lauca. It has Volcan Parinacota and Volcan Pomerape looming over it.

39. Cerro San Cristobal

Located in northern Santiago, Cerro San Cristobal is a hill with a beautiful view over the whole city. It has a church and a statue of Virgin Mary. But, you may only reach its summit through a cable car or a long walk.

40. La Serena

La Serena is part of the northern Chilean town, and is the second oldest in Chile. It is a city of architecture and a golden beach. Outdoor junkies can bike through its Elqui Valley, and do some recreational activities like swimming, diving, hiking, snorkeling, among others.

41. Valparaiso

This place is a good spot for backpacking. It has a lively night that attracts nocturnal tourists. It has good restaurants, too!

42. Iquique

This is the Monte Carlo of Chile which promises more fun for all the tourists coming in. One can stroll down its sidewalks in the morning.

43. Navarino Island

Located between Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego and Cape Horn, Navarino Island forms part of the southernmost commune in Chile and in the world.

44. Puerto Williams

This place is a town in Navarino Island. Tourists who travel around Cape Horn will have Puerto Williams as their starting point.

45. Cabo de Hornos

This place is a Chilean commune found in the southern part of Tierra del Fuego.

46. Alberto de Agostini National Park

This park has steep fjords and tidewater glaciers that can leave anyone in awe!

47. La Campana National Park

This place is located northwest of Santiago, Chile. It is rich in diverse wildlife such as foxes and mockingbirds.

48. Concepcion

Concepcion showcases art gallery dubbed as the House of Art. This place is in central Chile.

49. Puerto Natales

Puerto Natales is located in Patagonia, Chile. It houses the Municipal Historical Museum in the city.

50. Puerto Varas

This city in southern Chile is located on the southwest banks of Lake Llangquihue which provides views of Calbuco and Osorno Volcanoes.

51. Pumalin Park

This park is a private nature reserve located in the province of Chile, Palena. It is a public park accessed by the locals and tourists. Its vast infrastructures make it worth visiting.

52. Rancagua

Rancagua is home to the twin-towered Cathedral and Rancagua Museum. It is located in a city of south of Santiago, Chile.

52. Nahuelbuta National Park

It is one of the parks in the Coastal Mountain Range of Chile. It also a Monkey Sanctuary, a perfect tourists’ spot.

When to Visit Chile

The best time to visit Chile depends on the region you’re traveling to and what activities you want to focus on. October to March are the warmest and most beautiful months for visitors heading to Patagonia.

These are the summer months in the Southern Hemisphere and the weather is very pleasant, with warm temperatures of around 72°F.

What to expect when hiking in these best places in Chile

Anything can happen wherever we are. Risks and problems during hiking are inevitable, too. And hiking in Chile is no exemption. Problems of any kind may arise in every walk. So, as a hiker, you must be responsible enough by making sure that you always come prepared for every walk.

Anyone who is considering to take a walk on any of these places aforementioned must conduct their personal research on the potential risks and problems involved in hiking. Through due diligence, one must know the necessary precautions should problems arise during the walk.

Moreover, this post aims to help outdoor enthusiasts, even ordinary morning walkers to understand the value of responsible traveling, be it just a hike or a simple walk. After all, it’s not just the magnificence of a certain place, or the many options as to where to go, that matters, but the way one executes the outdoor trek. So, make sure everything is planned before you hit the road.

If you want to see something you’ve never seen before, you have to do something you’ve never done before, and that includes coming to one or two of these 52 best places to hike in Chile.

So, which of the above-listed hiking places in Chile do you find endearing? Don’t you find each of them enthralling? With the promising natural features each of these places has, I’m sure you do. So, don’t you allow yourself to be left out by not being able to visit any of them at least once.

If you happen to have visited, if not all, at least one of them already, why not make it a goal to revisit the place? Stepping into their ground is the best way to rekindle your love for traveling. So, why not come to Chile soon? Travelling is an investment, by the way. And you won’t regret spending your bucks on exploring Chile.

Walking or hiking may sound just ordinary. Well, it actually is. It’s a kind of an outdoor activity that doesn’t have to be complicated but should be wanted, instead. If you are the health-conscious type, hiking in one of the places in Chile should be on your bucket list at least every year. If you are a native in Chile, then, all the more you should make time to set foot in any of these best places.

You don’t want to be a foreigner in your own land, do you? Chile has the most interesting of places, and with its many fascinating landscapes, no doubt that among the countries in the world, Chile is one of the most sought after. So, don’t miss your chance to hike in Chile. By all means, at least pick one of these places you can spend a day or two with your family, friends, or yourself. Chile is simply a place to be.

I hope this article can help you with your next travel destination. We would love to hear your thoughts by leaving a comment below. Also, please don’t forget to share this through your social media account!

Enjoyed these 52 Amazing Places To Hike In Chile? You’ll love 52 Weird Food and Drink Facts  and  52 Best Things to Do and See in Peru . 

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The post 50+ Amazing Places To Hike In Chile appeared first on 52 Perfect Days .

Baltimore bridge collapse wasn't first major accident for giant container ship Dali

Propulsion failed on the cargo ship that struck the Francis Key Bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday as it was leaving port, causing it to collapse into the frigid Patapsco River. Its crew warned Maryland officials of a possible collision because they had lost control.

“The vessel notified MD Department of Transportation (MDOT) that they had lost control of the vessel” and a collision with the bridge “was possible,” according to an unclassified Department of Homeland Security report. “The vessel struck the bridge causing a complete collapse.”

An official speaking on condition of anonymity confirmed to USA TODAY that the DHS’ Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency is working with federal, state, and local officials “to understand the potential impacts of this morning’s collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.”

Clay Diamond, executive director, American Pilots’ Association, told USA TODAY power issues are not unusual on cargo ships, which are so large they cannot easily course correct.

“It’s likely that virtually every pilot in the country has experienced a power loss of some kind (but) it generally is momentary,” Diamond said. “This was a complete blackout of all the power on the ship, so that’s unusual. Of course this happened at the worst possible location.” 

The ship in Tuesday's crash, Dali, was involved in at least one prior accident when it collided with a shipping pier in Belgium.

That 2016 incident occurred as the Dali was leaving port in Antwerp and struck a loading pier made of stone, causing damage to the ship’s stern, according to VesselFinder.com, a site that tracks ships across the world. An investigation determined a mistake made by the ship’s master and pilot was to blame.

No one was injured in that crash, although the ship required repair and a full inspection before being returned to service. The pier – or berth – was also seriously damaged and had to be closed.

VesselFinder reports that the Dali was chartered by Maersk, the same company chartering it during the Baltimore harbor incident.

The 9-year-old container ship had passed previous inspections during its time at sea, but during one such inspection in June at the Port of San Antonio in Chile, officials discovered a deficiency with its "propulsion and auxiliary machinery (gauges, thermometers, etc)," according to the Tokyo MOU, an intergovernmental maritime authority in the Asia-Pacific region.

The report provided no other information about the deficiency except to note that it was not serious enough to remove the ship from service.

Follow here for live updates: Baltimore's Key Bridge collapses after ship strike; construction crew missing: Live Updates

Why did Dali crash into the Baltimore bridge?

Officials said Tuesday they’re investigating the collision, including whether systems on board lost electricity early Tuesday morning, which could be related to mechanical failure, according to a U.S. official who was not authorized to speak publicly.

Accidents at sea, known as marine casualties, are not uncommon, the source told USA TODAY. However, “allisions,” in which a moving object strikes a stationary one with catastrophic results, are far less common. The investigation of the power loss aboard the Dali, a Singapore-flagged vessel, will be a high priority.

In a video posted to social media, lights on the Dali shut off, then turned back on, then shut off again before the ship struck a support pier on the bridge.

Numerous cargo and cruise ships have lost power over the years.

The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea requires all international vessels to have two independent sources of electricity, both of which should be able to maintain the ship's seaworthiness on their own, according to a safety study about power failures on ships , citing the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea.

The Dali's emergency generator was likely responsible for the lights coming back on after the initial blackout, Diamond said.

“There was still some steerage left when they initially lost power,” he said. “We’ve been told the ship never recovered propulsion. The emergency generator is a diesel itself – so if you light off the generator, that’s also going to put off a puff of exhaust.”

Under maritime law, all foreign flagged vessels must be piloted into state ports by a state licensed pilot so the Dali's pilot is licensed by Association of Maryland Pilots .

Diamond described the incident based on information from the Maryland agency that licensed the pilot aboard the ship. His organization represents that group and all other state piloting agencies in the US.

“The pilot was directing navigation of the ship as it happened,” he said. “He asked the captain to get the engines back online. They weren’t able to do that, so the pilot took all the action he could. He tried to steer, to keep the ship in the channel. He also dropped the ship’s anchor to slow the ship and guide the direction.

“Neither one was enough. The ship never did regain its engine power.”

How big is the Dali ship?

The Dali is a 984-foot container vessel built in 2015 by Hyundai Heavy Industries in South Korea. With a cruising speed of about 22 knots – roughly 25 mph. It has traveled the world carrying goods from port to port.

The ship, constructed of high-strength steel, has one engine and one propeller, according to MarineTraffic.com.

The Dali arrived in Baltimore on Sunday from the Port of Norfolk in Virginia. Before that, it had been in New York and came through the Panama Canal.

It remains at the scene of the collapse as authorities investigate.

Who owns and operates the Dali?

It is owned by the Singapore-based Grace Ocean Pte Ltd but managed by Synergy Marine Group, also based in Singapore. It was carrying Maersk customers’ cargo, according to a statement from the shipping company.

“We are deeply concerned by this incident and are closely monitoring the situation,” Maersk said in the statement. 

Synergy, which describes itself as a leading ship manager with more than 600 vessels under its guidance, issued a statement on its website acknowledging the incident and reporting no injuries among its crew and no pollution in the water. There were two pilots on board and 22 crew members in all, according to Synergy, all of them from India.

USA TODAY reached out to Synergy on Tuesday, but the company did not immediately return a call seeking comment.

Contributing: Josh Susong

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Explainer: Why did the Baltimore bridge collapse and what is the death toll?

What is the death toll so far, when did the baltimore bridge collapse, why did the bridge collapse, who will pay for the damage and how much will the bridge cost.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO REBUILD THE BRIDGE?

What ship hit the baltimore bridge, what do we know about the bridge that collapsed.

HOW WILL THE BRIDGE COLLAPSE IMPACT THE BALTIMORE PORT?

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Reporting by Lisa Shumaker; Writing by Lisa Shumaker; Editing by Daniel Wallis, Josie Kao and Tom Hogue

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Thomson Reuters

Lisa's journalism career spans two decades, and she currently serves as the Americas Day Editor for the Global News Desk. She played a pivotal role in tracking the COVID pandemic and leading initiatives in speed, headline writing and multimedia. She has worked closely with the finance and company news teams on major stories, such as the departures of Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey and Amazon’s Jeff Bezos and significant developments at Apple, Alphabet, Facebook and Tesla. Her dedication and hard work have been recognized with the 2010 Desk Editor of the Year award and a Journalist of the Year nomination in 2020. Lisa is passionate about visual and long-form storytelling. She holds a degree in both psychology and journalism from Penn State University.

Malaysian authorities have arrested three people suspected of supplying firearms to a 36-year-old man carrying an Israeli passport, who was detained this week at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur, police said on Saturday.

A Molotov cocktail was thrown into a Malaysian convenience store on Saturday, police said, after the chain's top executives were charged with hurting religious feelings for selling socks with the word "Allah" printed on them.