There is a wide variety of landscapes in this Patagonian nation, from mountains to plains to jungles to the ocean. Because of its unusually long shape, Chile has a climatically diverse range, from one of the world’s harshest deserts in the north to a cold-weather habitat for penguins in the south.
When it comes to countries’ proximity to Antarctica, Chile is right up there with Argentina and New Zealand.
Top 10 Places to Visit in Chile
Everyone who sailed around the world before the Panama Canal was created had to pass via its tip, therefore the South has a rich history of visiting explorers. Several wine enthusiasts visit the country every year because of its renowned wine area. Some of the top tourist destinations in Chile are shown here.
1. La Serena
Located in the country’s northern region, this city is among Chile’s oldest. It has beautiful buildings and a pleasant, golden coastline. Many attractions, such as an archaeological museum and an astronomical observatory, contribute to La Serena’s image as a city of culture and learning.
Biking in Elqui Valley, swimming, snorkelling, diving, and/or hiking on Isla Damas, and exploring Fray Jorge National Park are all fantastic options for those who enjoy being outdoors.
2. Santiago
The capital is the cultural and political centre of the country. There is a lot to see in Santiago, Chile, from the panoramic vistas of Cerro San Cristobal Park to the hidden history of poet Pablo Neruda’s private writing retreat.
Some of the most popular things to do in Chile include going skiing at Valle Nevado or Portillo, wine tasting at Vina Aquitania, and touring renowned museums like the Museo Chile de Arte Precolumbio and the Museo de la Moda.
The high slopes of Cajon de Maipo provide excellent trekking options for people who would prefer not to spend all of their time in the city.
3. Chiloe Island
After Tierra del Fuego, Chiloé Island is the largest island in South America. It is located in the Los Lagos Region and is part of the Chiloé Archipelago. Chiloé’s unique architecture and culture have developed in part due of the island’s separation from the rest of Chile.
In an effort to convert the natives to Christianity, the Spanish who came in the 16th century and the Jesuit missionaries who followed built hundreds of distinctive wooden churches around the archipelago. The result was a synthesis of Catholicism with native Chilean philosophies.
4. Iquique
This resort city has a lively boardwalk and stunning Georgian buildings from the 19th century, such as the Aztoreca Palace. Iquique is the Chilean equivalent of Monte Carlo, and it has a lot to offer party animals.
On the golden coast, visitors can spend the day paragliding, sandboarding, or surfing the world-famous waves. The historic mining town’s wooden walkways and the cobblestone Baquedano street provide a glimpse into a bygone era of economic prosperity. Last but not least, the incredible nightlife features glittering casinos, gourmet restaurants, and tax-free shopping.
5. Chilean Fjords
The only way to reach this section of Patagonia is by travelling along the southern coast of Chile, which features numerous fjords and channels. Sailing through this area can be an amazing adventure. The majority of tours depart from Puerto Montt and head south to Laguna San Rafael and Puerto Natales along the Carretera Austral.
Travelers will spend days in remote fjords, get up close and personal with glaciers, and watch the sun set over the Pacific in fiery orange hues. The waterways becoming more confined as you head south. It’s possible to see whales, a variety of birds, and even sea lions on this route.
6. Valparaiso
Poet Pablo Neruda admired the magnificent anarchy of this bustling economic port town in central Chile. It was the site of the first Latin American city to establish a volunteer fire service, for example.
Valparaiso is well-known for its underground street art scene in addition to its working class heritage. Valparaiso’s primary draws are not landmarks so much as the city’s colourful architecture, exciting nightlife, and breathtaking ocean vistas.
7. Chilean Lake District
From Puerto Montt in the south to Temuco in the north lies a long, verdant volcanic valley region. It features lush vegetation, sparkling lakes, and snow-capped mountains. The lake district was heavily wooded and home to the Mapuche before Europeans arrived.
The Mapuche were one of the few indigenous South American peoples to avoid being absorbed by the Incan empire. Los Alerces National Park, also known as Chile’s Yosemite, is only one example of the stunning undeveloped landscapes that still exist today.
The mountains here are only a few thousand years old, making them younger, taller, and more craggy than any in North America.
8. San Pedro de Atacama
Located in Chile’s Antofagasta Region, on a high plateau, is the town of San Pedro de Atacama. It is surrounded by numerous mountains, lakes, and rock formations. The small hamlet, located not far from the Bolivian border, is a favourite tourist destination due to the breathtaking vistas and scenery it offers.
San Pedro has a relaxed atmosphere and busy cafes, so it’s a great place to stay while you explore the rest of the island. From the downtown area, it is simple to plan a trip to the surrounding pre-Columbian ruins and the breathtaking Atacama Desert.
The lunar-like landscape of Valle de la Luna and the towering geysers of El Tatio are just two of the many attractions in this area. There are also the ancient petroglyphs in Rainbow Valley and the pink flamingos of Laguna Chaxa to see. One of the darkest spots on Earth, the main lure at night is star tours, which give visitors a chance to see the stars without light pollution.
9. Torres del Paine
At Chile’s very tip, in a glaciated region known as the “towers of blue,” is a national park. The park gets its name from the three massive pillars that may be found there, although there are also many additional mountains (known as “horns”) and glacial lakes in the area. Minivan tours, multiday hikes, and catamaran cruises are just some of the ways to see this park.
Some tour companies even include horseback riding in their itineraries so you can see the sights in style. Much of the park is inaccessible by vehicle, but there are numerous high-quality guide services that can aid with five- to seven-day hikes by carrying gear and providing food.
10. Easter Island
Easter Island is one of the world’s greatest unsolved mysteries, despite being located more than 3,500 kilometres (2,000 miles) from central Chile. This treeless island is home to hundreds of enormous statues with empty eyes that were fashioned by Polynesians who visited here.
Guests can also enjoy two white sand beaches with off-coast diving, an extinct cinder cone, and a number of native-run tours offering views of things that are unique and well worth it, in addition to visiting these statues from a respectful distance to avoid immense fines and hiking the rocky plains.
