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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.

Torres Del Paine National Park

Valle de la luna and the atacama desert, easter island & rapa nui national park, santiago: chile's cultural capital, the chilean lake district, lauca national park, pumalín park, los pingüinos natural monument, the humberstone and santa laura saltpeter works, chiloé island & chiloé national park, valle nevado, mylodon cave natural monument, cochamó valley, 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

Top 10 Must-See Attractions in Chile: A Complete Guide

Top attractions in chile: a journey through diverse landscapes, torres del paine national park.

• Atacama Desert

Easter Island (Rapa Nui)

Valparaíso

Marble caves, chiloé island.

• Lake District

Colchagua Valley

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Must-see attractions in Chile

Parque Nacional Patagonia

Northern Patagonia

Dubbed as the Serengeti of the Southern Cone, the 690-sq-km Parque Nacional Patagonia features Patagonian steppe, forests, mountains, lakes and lagoons…

Orongo Ceremonial Village

Rapa Nui (Easter Island)

Nearly covered in a bog of floating totora reeds, the crater lake of Rano Kau resembles a giant witch's cauldron and is a wild greenhouse of endemic…

Rano Raraku

Known as 'the nursery,' the volcano of Rano Raraku, about 18km from Hanga Roa, is the quarry for the hard tuff from which the moai were cut. You'll feel…

Ahu Tongariki

The monumental Ahu Tongariki has plenty to set your camera's flash popping. With 15 imposing statues, it is the largest ahu ever built. The statues gaze…

Centro Gabriela Mistral

This striking cultural and performing-arts center – named for Chilean poet Gabriela Mistral, the first Latin American woman to win the Nobel Prize in…

Beach bums in search of a place to wallow will love this postcard-perfect, white-sand beach. It also forms a lovely backdrop for Ahu Nau Nau, which…

Casa de Isla Negra

Middle Chile

The spectacular setting on a windswept ocean headland makes it easy to understand why Isla Negra was Pablo Neruda’s favorite house. Built by the poet when…

Cerro San Cristóbal

The best views over Santiago are from the peaks and viewpoints of the Parque Metropolitano, better known as Cerro San Cristóbal. At 722 hectares, the park…

Muelle de las Almas

Shrouded in folklore and Huilliche mythology, Chiloé's 'Dock of Souls' was built in 2007 by architect Marcelo Orellana. The curved boardwalk spans 17m…

La Sebastiana

Bellavista's most famous resident writer was Pablo Neruda, who made a point of watching Valparaíso's annual New Year's fireworks from his house at the top…

La Chascona

When poet Pablo Neruda needed a secret hideaway to spend time with his mistress Matilde Urrutia, he built La Chascona (loosely translated as 'Messy Hair')…

Mina San José

Norte Chico

In 2010, 33 miners were trapped more than 700m underground after a devastating collapse within the mountain where they'd been working. Following a…

Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Patrocinio

The magnificent Unesco-listed church (1837), for which the town is named (Tenaún means 'three mounts') has been meticulously restored down to the last…

Cementerio Municipal

Punta Arenas

Among South America’s most fascinating cemeteries, with both humble immigrant graves and flashy tombs, like that of wool baron José Menéndez, a scale…

Iglesia Santa María de Loreto

Achao's 18th-century Jesuit church, on the south side of the Plaza de Armas, is Chiloé's oldest (1740). Crowned by a 25m tower, the World Heritage site…

Parque Cultural de Valparaíso

This cultural center built from the bones of a prison has a little bit of everything the thinking traveler could ask for. There are excellent murals in…

This little village has good ocean views and a few restaurants and cabins. Head to the bridge for a 30-minute boat tour of the Laguna de Cahuil (CH$5000…

Jardín Botánico Nacional

Viña Del Mar

There are over 3000 plant species in the nearly 400 hectares of parkland that comprise Chile's Jardín Botánico Nacional. It's 8km southeast of the city…

Parque del Estrecho de Magallanes

Southern Patagonia

The historic sites of Puerto Hambre (Port Hunger) and Fuerte Bulnes are the centerpiece of this privately managed park, an excellent introduction to…

Museo de Sitio Colón 10

See the 32 excavated Chinchorro mummies in situ at this tiny museum below El Morro. They were discovered when an architect bought this former private home…

Iglesia San Francisco de Castro

Italian Eduardo Provasoli chose a marriage of neo-Gothic and classical architecture in his design for the elaborate Iglesia San Francisco, one of Chiloé's…

Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos

Opened in 2010, this striking museum isn't for the faint of heart: the exhibits expose the terrifying human rights violations and large-scale …

Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino

Exquisite pottery from most major pre-Columbian cultures is the backbone of Santiago's best museum, the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino. As well as…

Museo Ralli

This little-visited museum on a quiet residential street in Vitacura boasts a stunning collection of contemporary Latin American art mixed in with…

Centro de Visitantes Inmaculada Concepción

Don't even think about visiting Chiloé's Unesco-listed churches without first stopping in at this excellent museum housed in the former Convento…

Museo Regional de Ancud Aurelio Bórquez Canobra

This worthwhile museum, casually referred to as Museo Chiloé, offers interesting displays tracking the history of the island, including a full-sized…

La Confluencia

Don't miss this dramatic viewpoint, where Chile's most powerful river, the Baker, froths into a broad, behemoth cascade before merging with the milkier,…

Parque Nacional Torres del Paine

Soaring almost vertically more than 2000m above the Patagonian steppe, the granite pillars of Torres del Paine (Towers of Paine) dominate the landscape of…

Parque Nacional Rapa Nui

The vast majority of Rapa Nui falls within the boundaries of this national park. Think of it like an open-air museum with mysterious archaeological sites…

Valle de la Luna

Norte Grande

Watching the sun set from the exquisite Valley of the Moon is an unforgettable experience. From atop a giant sand dune, you can drink in spectacular views…

Parque Nacional Conguillío

The 3125m Volcán Llaima, one of Chile's most active volcanoes, forms the focal point of Parque Nacional Conguillío and the Unesco Biosphere Reserve in…

Cerro Paranal Observatory

In the world of high-powered telescopes, where rival institutes jostle to claim the 'biggest,' 'most powerful' or 'most technologically advanced'…

Parque Nacional Laguna San Rafael

Awesome and remote, this national park brings visitors face to face with the 30,000-year-old San Valentín glacier in Chile's Campo de Hielo Norte…

Parque Tantauco

Created and owned by Chilean business magnate and current president Sebastián Piñera (and run by his foundation, Fundación Futura), this private nature…

Península Poike

At the eastern end of the island, this high plateau is crowned by the extinct volcano Maunga Pu A Katiki (400m) and bound in by steep cliffs. There are…

Reserva Nacional Malalcahuello-Nalcas

Serving up one of the most dramatic landscapes in all of Sur Chico and easily the jewel of northern Araucanía’s protected reserves, the 303 sq km Reserva…

Huilo-Huilo Biological Reserve

This conservation project, begun in 2000, encompasses 1000 sq km of private land that has been developed for low-impact ecotourism and falls within a much…

Parque Nacional Archipiélago Juan Fernández

This national park covers the entire archipelago, a total of 93 sq km, though the township of San Juan Bautista and the airstrip are de-facto exclusions…

Valle de la Muerte

San Pedro de Atacama Region

Around 3.5km west of San Pedro, this striking valley should figure high on any itinerary to the region, with jagged rocks, a towering sand dune and…

Parque Nacional Villarrica

Towering over the adventure capital of Pucón, Volcán Villarica is the centerpiece of Parque Nacional Villarrica, one of the most popular parks in Chile…

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10 Best Places to Visit in Chile

By Mike Kaplan · Last updated on June 17, 2024

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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• Huasco Valley
• San Pedro de Atacama
• Elqui Valley
• Antofagasta
• Limarí – Fray Jorge National Park
• Bahía Inglesa
• Alto El Loa
• La Serena and Coquimbo
• Copiapó Valley
• Tagua Tagua – Almahue Valley
• Alto Colchagua Universidad Glacier 
• Cachapoal Valley
• Portillo Ski Resort

Pirque and Maipo Valley

• Aconcagua Valley
• Valle Nevado Ski Resort
• El Colorado Ski Resort
• Curicó Valley
• Maule Valley
• San Antonio/Leyda Valley
• Colchagua Valley and Santa Cruz
• Casablanca Valley
• Viña del Mar
• Cajón del Maipo
• Robinson Crusoe Island
• Rancagua and Sewell
• La Parva Ski Resort
• Rano Raraku
• Llanquihue Lake
• Chillan Ski Resort
• Puerto Montt
• Osorno and Puyehue
• Valdivia and Corral
• Pucón and Villarrica
• Panguipulli
• Temuco and Lago Budi
• Arauco Territory
• Puerto Varas
• Chilean Antarctic Destination

General Carrera Lake

• Tierra del Fuego
• Coyhaique and Puerto Aysén

Carretera Austral

• Torres del Paine
• Puerto Natales
• Punta Arenas
• Family recreation
• Coastal beaches
• Lakeside Beaches
• Hot Springs
• Spa and relaxation
• Patagonian cruises
• Lake sailing
• International cruises
• Visits to observatories
• Astronomical facilities
• Indigenous Peoples and Ethnotourism
• World Heritage Sites
• Archaeology
• Paleontology
• Poetry and Literature
• Typical gastronomy
• Gastronomy of the world
• Hiking y trekking
• Skiing and snowboarding
• Mountainbike
• Horseback Riding
• Mountain and rock climbing
• Sport fishing
• Kitesurfing and water sports
• Ice walking
• Overland 4×4
• Paragliding and aerial sports
• Wildlife watching
• Landscape photography
• National Parks
• Bird Watching

Tourism in Chile Where the impossible is possible

From the extreme north with the driest desert in the world to the austral south with eternal ice and inverted waterfalls, Chile is an invitation hard to refuse. Learn about tourism in Chile and be amazed by the experiences in the southernmost portion of the world.

Discover our diversity

The tranquility of vast sandy esplanades and intense sunshine contrast with deep blue lagoons, small towns where the native customs are kept intact and large cities with beautiful beaches.

Nestled in a plain of small valleys and coastal destinations, central Chile stands out as one of the most populated areas and surprises with the assortment of activities that can be performed, from the mountains to the beaches.

The mystical Rapa Nui culture floods the entire island and gives life to one of the most emblematic destinations in the world. Its pink sand beaches, volcanoes and grasslands along with more than a thousand Moais are just some of its main attractions.

The rain falls heavily on millenary ancient forests of deep vegetation and assorted wildlife, and then gives way to a deep blue sky. Southern Chile stands out not only for its wonderful green landscapes, but also for being one of the most important areas for adventure tourism in the world.

An almost untouched nature full of mountains, fjords, glaciers, forests, steppes, pioneer villages where you can breathe the cattle traditions and the gaucho culture, along with important cities, is part of what you can find in the Chilean Patagonia.

Enjoy Chile, live Chile

• Itineraries
• Destinations

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A trip to the Pacific: The best activities to do on Rapa Nui

Four chilean landscapes that are like paradise

3 amazing destinations to visit from the PUQ Airport

Five magical cities in the south of Chile that you must visit

Salt flats, wildlife, and more: Things to see and do in the Atacama Desert

Discover the panoramas that await you in the metropolitan region

Come to Chile with your partner! What you need to know to come to Chile with your pet

Overland on the Carretera Austral and Tierra del Fuego: an adventure in nature

Pumalín National Park: preservation as an impulse in local development

Come to Chile’s most romantic destinations

The most romantic experiences that you could live in San Pedro de Atacama

Three days in the main vineyards and valleys in Chile

A few kilometers from santiago: what to do in the cajón del maipo, adventures that endure: 2 days of hikes in the andean araucanía, enjoy santiago’s mountains and the casablanca valley.

How to get to Chile?

No matter where you are! Select the country you are in and choose the airline that suits you best to get to Chile*:

(*) Official information of Nuevo Pudahuel

Travel through Chile's destinations

Are you an adventure, beach or desert person? Select the following options to give you the best recommendation according to your interests:

Travelers Recommend

Matt had asked where was good to watch a @leedsunited game whilst in town…which led the whole of Chile looking for us! (…) Thanks for a great welcome.😊 Patagonia, I can’t wait to return!!

After an hour on the road, we began to see herds of guanacos running through the Patagonian pampas, and that confirmed that we had reached our next destination: @parquepatagonia.

After going rafting down the Baker River with @raftingbaker, bathing in icy water, seeing incredible landscapes and chatting with people who only teach and add things to our lives

• South America
• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

The 23 Best Things to See and Do 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.

Soak up the atacama desert’s hot springs.

Isla Magdalena

Torres del paine.

Villa O'Higgins to Argentina Hike

The Marble Caves

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Carretera Austral

Easter Island

Puerto Varas

Volcano Villarica

The Wine Regions

Architectural Landmark

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!

Elqui Valley

San Pedro de Atacama

Chuquicamata

Lauca National Park

Portillo is South America’s oldest ski resort, with an iconic yellow building that is easily noticeable from all around the resort. Discover the pistes and ski on the well-groomed terrain – or if you’re feeling adventurous, explore some of the endless off-piste runs. Be sure to pack extra clothes for the evenings, as they are known to get into the minus temperatures.

Recommended by Lucy Pierce.

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Where are the best places to visit in chile for the first time.

Latin America expert Amanda's top tips for your first visit to Chile

27 Aug 2024

04 sept 2024.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Chile , where diverse landscapes range from stark deserts to towering glaciers. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the towering Andes, Chile's narrow coastal strip boasts a variety of climates and stunning scenery that shift dramatically with its changing latitudes.

Chile’s remarkable landscapes are its greatest allure, offering everything from the arid Atacama Desert to the lush vineyards of the Central Valley , and the vast glaciers of the southern wilderness around Torres del Paine National Park . This is a country made for outdoor exploration, whether by hiking, biking, horse riding, or venturing onto the water by kayak or paddleboard.

Venture further afield to discover the mysterious Easter Island , a remote Pacific Isle with its own distinct Polynesian culture and iconic Moai statues.

Chile is a nation rich in arts and culture, with its capital, Santiago , producing world-renowned poets and writers. Modern Chile is one of the most affluent and stable countries in the region, offering a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere. With its excellent infrastructure and extensive flight network, traveling through Chile is both convenient and rewarding, allowing you to explore its many wonders with ease.

Read on, or click below to enquire and speak to Amanda.

Atacama Desert

In the far north of Chile lies the Atacama Desert , the world’s driest non-polar desert, known for its surreal and striking landscapes. This otherworldly region is characterised by lunar-like rock formations, towering volcanoes, shimmering salt flats, and spouting geysers.

In contrast to the lush southern regions of Chile, the Atacama’s vast and barren altiplano offers a unique playground for adventure. The desert oasis town of San Pedro de Atacama serves as the perfect base for exploration, whether on foot, mountain bike, or by jeep.

Begin your journey with excursions at lower altitudes, ideal for the first days of acclimatisation. Discover the enchanting Rainbow Valley, where large rocks and multicoloured hills in shades of red, white, and green create a mesmerising view. As the day fades, visit Moon Valley, with its eerie, lunar-like rock formations sculpted by centuries of wind and water erosion. The silence here is almost palpable, adding to the area’s ethereal atmosphere.

After adjusting to the altitude, venture higher to explore the El Tatio geysers, the highest in Chile, best seen at sunrise when their steam plumes are most dramatic. Continue to the high-altitude Miscanti and Miñique Lagoons, nestled beneath the towering peaks of Miscanti Hill and Miñique Volcano. This pristine environment is a haven for wildlife, including foxes, flamingos, and vicuñas. For those with time, the salt flats of Salar de Atacama, Puitama hot springs, and Death Valley offer further opportunities for adventure, including sandboarding and stargazing beneath the clear desert skies.

Far & Wild combination idea

Travel north to the magical Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia for an epic adventure in this remote region.

Have a look at our Winelands, Deserts and Salt Flats suggested trip .

Santiago & Winelands

Set against the stunning backdrop of snow-capped Andean peaks in a sunlit, fertile valley, Santiago , Chile’s vibrant capital, lies at the heart of the nation. This sprawling metropolis is a mix of contrasting neighbourhoods, offering an array of fascinating buildings and authentic eateries to explore on a Santiago holiday.

The city’s colonial centre, with its cobbled streets and historic buildings, reveals a poignant past, juxtaposed with the modernity of glittering malls, towering skyscrapers, and shady boulevards. Santiago also features European-style districts, such as the Italianate Bellavista and the newly vibrant Lastarria, where antique shops, trendy cafes, and eccentric bars create a lively and eclectic atmosphere.

Dominating the cityscape is Cerro San Cristobal, an imposing hill offering panoramic views of the entire city. Reach the summit via a scenic cable car ride or an invigorating hike and be rewarded with breathtaking vistas. Santiago's central location makes it an ideal base for day trips, including visits to the surrounding Mediterranean landscapes. Here, fertile valleys house vineyards and wineries where you can sample Chile’s renowned wines, making Santiago not just a city to explore, but also a gateway to the country’s rich wine heritage.

Traverse the Andes mountains by either land or air to Argentina and the Wine Region city of Mendoza .

Have a look at our Winelands of Chile & Argentina suggested trip .

Easter Island

Easter Island, or Rapa Nui, is a remote volcanic island in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, renowned for its enigmatic Moai statues and rich cultural heritage. This small island, first settled by Polynesians, has captivated visitors with its unique history and stunning landscapes.

Once lush and densely forested, the island was home to a thriving community that carved the iconic Moai statues from volcanic rock. These imposing figures, averaging four metres in height and weighing around fourteen tonnes, remain a mystery, their purpose still debated. Standing in silent vigil over the island, they create a hauntingly beautiful panorama.

Today, the island's rugged terrain is characterised by rocky, treeless grasslands, dotted with striking coves and the occasional sandy beach. The areas where the Moai stand have been preserved as a National Park and World Heritage Site, dedicated to safeguarding the legacy of Rapa Nui culture.

Visitors can explore the island's breathtaking landscapes through hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. For those drawn to the sea, snorkelling and scuba diving offer a chance to discover the vibrant underwater world surrounding the island, adding another layer of adventure to this extraordinary destination.

Easter Island can only be accessed from the hub of Santiago, so can combine with pretty much any destination in Chile or Argentina. Santiago is a major hub so flights can take you to almost any key city in the region, inlcuding Cusco in Peru for a spectacular add on to Machu Picchu .

Lake District

Chile’s Lake District is a breathtaking region that evokes a Tolkienesque landscape of monkey puzzle forests, towering snow-capped volcanoes, and deep blue lakes. This picturesque area is characterised by ancient forests that blanket rugged hills, dotted with hot springs, crystalline streams, and meadows bursting with wildflowers. The region's pastoral scenes are completed by grazing cattle and charming villages.

In the north, the lively town of Pucón beckons adventurers with its stunning setting on the shores of Lago Villarrica, framed by the snow-capped Villarrica Volcano. Pucón is a hub for outdoor activities, offering everything from white-water rafting on the region’s rushing rivers to horseback riding through the Andes. For those seeking more serene pursuits, the nearby Huerquehue National Park offers pristine trails, while the volcanic hot springs provide perfect relaxation. History enthusiasts can explore the rich culture of the indigenous Mapuche people.

Further south lies Puerto Varas, a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Llanquihue, overlooked by the majestic Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes. The town’s Germanic influence is evident in its charming architecture and flower-filled streets. Visitors can hike the Osorno Volcano, marvel at the Petrohue Falls, or venture to the Chiloé Archipelago. There, time seems to stand still, with the iconic Palafito houses, UNESCO-listed wooden churches, and opportunities for hiking or kayaking through the island’s rugged beauty.

Traverse the mountains and lakes of the region, from Puerto Varas in Chile to Bariloche in Argentina on the iconic ‘Lakes Crossing’. This day trip seamlessly connects the two destinations.

Have a look at our Lakes of Chile & Argentina trip .

Torres del Paine National Park

Torres del Paine National Park in southern Patagonia stands as Chile’s crowning jewel, offering an array of world-class trekking and hiking experiences. Its rugged landscape is a haven for adventurers, where soaring mountains pierce the sky, and snow-capped peaks dominate the horizon. The park's winding trails lead through breathtaking scenery, with stunning vistas around every corner.

Among the most popular treks are the hike to the base of the iconic towers, the Glacier Grey trek, and journeys to Los Cuernos and the Valle Francés. Each trail promises an unforgettable adventure, immersing you in the park’s wild beauty.

For a different perspective, embark on a boat trip across the shimmering waters of Lago Grey, navigating through a maze of dazzling glaciers. This journey reveals a frozen world of colossal ice formations, offering a unique vantage point in the park’s wilderness.

The park’s diverse habitats, from wind-swept grasslands to vibrant meadows and icy lagoons, are home to a rich variety of wildlife. Spot guanacos grazing, watch condors soar overhead, and keep an eye out for elusive pumas, especially during the quieter winter months from April to October.

Cross the border into Argentine Patagonia and the town of El Calafate , a fantastic base to visit Perito Moreno Glacier. Further afield, take a day trip to the remote Estancia Cristina and its surrounding pristine wilderness.

Have a look at our Patagonia Highlights trip .

Chile is a land of extreme contrast, and these destinations are perfect for a 2-week trip, however there is so much more to explore. Visit the charming town of Valparaiso on the Pacific Coast or delve deeper into the picturesque Lake District with a side trip to Chiloe Island.

The entire country is well connected with internal flights and international options to other destinations in the region. Contact us to discuss your perfect trip!

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Chile Tours & Vacations

From the eclectic sprawl of Santiago to the glacial fjords of Chilean Patagonia, the world’s longest country is jam-packed with adventure.

Get ready to be treated to a land of contrasts from the hip capital of Santiago with its funky graffitied neighborhoods, to the coastal town of Valparaiso made famous by the poetry of Pablo Neruda. Taste your way through a family-owned wine estate in Casablanca Valley, explore the Mars-like landscape of the Atacama Desert or discover Patagonia's awe-inspiring Torres del Paine National Park. Follow the flow of  Chile  and you'll undoubtedly collect the best of South America along the way.

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Chile at a glance

Capital city.

Santiago (population 6.9 million)

19.6 million

Chilean Peso (CLP)

(GMT-04:00) Santiago

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type L (Italian 3-pin)

Learn more about Chile

Culture and customs.

With the Andes on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other, Chile’s geographic isolation has resulted in a distinct national identity. About 95 per cent of Chileans share a mixture of European (predominantly Spanish) and indigenous ancestry.

For many, being Chilean often means celebrating huaso (Chilean cowboy) culture, going to rodeos, dancing the cueca (Chile’s national dance performed in traditional huaso clothing), eating empanadas and drinking pisco.

Spanish is the national language, though Chileans tend to speak fast, drop consonants and litter their speech with a healthy dose of chilenismos (Chilean slang).

Life is focused around the family with frequent get-togethers to share food in good company. More than half of Chileans are Roman Catholics and there is a growing number (estimated at 25 per cent of the population) who are ‘unaffiliated’ – choosing not to identify with a religion.

While many Chileans are traditional in their views, the younger generations are challenging cultural norms and politics is often a passionate topic among youths.

Geography and environment

Chile is a land of quirky geographical characteristics, most noticeably its incredible length. Measuring in at over 4600km long, yet only 430km wide, Chile covers a massive geographic scale that includes a variety of landscapes and an impressive coastline.

Straddled by the epic Andes, this gigantic mountain range acts as a natural border with  Argentina  in the east, while the Pacific Ocean - including the remote Chilean territory of Easter Island - forms the western coastline.

The capital and largest city, Santiago, lies inland, roughly in the center of the country. Further north, Chile shares a border with  Peru  and  Bolivia , as well as the largest section of the parched Atacama Desert, one of the world’s driest places.

South of Santiago, Chile unfolds into the wilderness playground of Patagonia - a largely uninhabited, prehistoric landscape brimming with forests and enormous glaciers.

Festivals and events

Chile has a busy events calendar with many festivals to celebrate the diversity of its culture throughout the year. Here are some of the country's biggest events:

Fiesta de la Tirana

Each July, the quiet streets of La Tirana morph into a massive dance floor filled with masked performers acting out the ‘Dance of the Devils’. Blending indigenous culture with Catholic tradition, some say the festival honors the Virgin Mary, while others say it honors an indigenous warrior princess.

Either way, it's a fascinating experience seeing the frenetic dancing, fireworks and tasty foods that make up Chile’s largest religious festival.

Festival de la Vendimia (Wine Harvest Festival)

Chile’s wine regions take it up a notch in March and April when weekend-long festivals celebrate the harvest and rural life. Think cowboys, country food and folk dancing. With so many wine regions, it can be hard to know which festival to check out, though Curico Valley’s festival is the longest-running and widely regarded as the biggest.

Fiestas Patrias (Independence Day)

As a fiercely patriotic nation that loves a good party, Fiestas Patrias is a big deal. Each September, flags are hung, and the aroma of barbeque fills the air as people eat, drink, dance and celebrate. Look for a fonda (huge tent party) and join locals as they party into the wee hours of the morning.  

Tapati Rapa Nui (Easter Island Tapati Festival)

Get a glimpse of Easter Island’s vibrant Polynesian heritage at this spectacular two-week festival in February. It features dancing, chanting, carving competitions, body painting, a string figure (kai kai) contest, and so much more.

Public holidays that may impact travel include:

Feast of Saints Peter and Paul

National Unity Day

Independence Day

Discovery of Two Worlds Day

All Saint’s Day

Immaculate Consumption

Please note dates of Chile's public holidays may vary.

Food and drink

Chilean cuisine is all about seasonal produce and simplicity. Potatoes, corn and quinoa are staple ingredients in many traditional dishes, including pastel de choclo (corn pie) and humitas (steamed corn pudding wrapped in corn husks).

Chile’s extensive coastline provides a wide array of seafood. Visit one of the country’s many marisquerias (fish restaurants) to try picorocos (barnacles) or erizos (sea urchin). Most places serve fish grilled with a little seasoning. Ceviche is also a dietary mainstay.

Chileans also love their meat. Like in Brazil and Argentina, a leisurely asado (barbeque) is a cherished tradition. Held either in a backyard or a specially equipped park, an asado can stretch for hours and always features lots of grilled beef, pork, sausage, lamb and Chilean wine. If you don’t manage to snag an invitation to an asado from a local, head to a parrillada instead – a restaurant that serves grilled meats.

Here are some must-try foods in Chile:

1. Mote con huesillo

Dried peaches and husked wheat are stewed in a sugary syrup to create Chile’s favorite summertime treat. The perfect reward after a long day of exploring. 

2. Pastel de choclo

A hearty Andean pie of ground beef or chicken and vegetables, topped with pureed sweet corn is a local favorite. 

The perfect dish to warm your bones on a cold day, cazuela is a thin stew of chicken or beef with corn on the cob, potatoes, pumpkin and noodles. Do as the locals and drink the broth first.

Things to buy in Chile

Most towns will have a local market where you can pick up handmade souvenirs. You'll also find large shopping centers in big cities. Head to Avenida Alonso de Córdova in Santiago for boutique and luxury stores and trendy bars.

Keep in mind that haggling isn't part of Chilean culture, so prices are usually fixed, and most markets and street vendors deal only with cash. Stores are typically open between 10 am and 9 or 10 pm Monday through Friday.

Many stores are only open during the morning on Saturdays and are closed on Sundays, though these hours can vary in tourist areas. Shops in smaller cities also tend to close for lunch and take a siesta between 1 and 5 pm.

Here are a few things to buy in Chile.

1. Alpaca clothing

Sweaters, gloves, scarves and other items made from alpaca wool are a South American specialty. Both unique and practical, alpaca wool does a good job of blocking out high altitude chill.

2. Lapis lazuli jewellery

The Romans considered it an aphrodisiac, and Cleopatra was said to powder it for use as an eyeshadow. Lapis lazuli has quite a history, but these days the semiprecious indigo-blue stone is found only in Chile and Afghanistan.

Cheaper here than lapis sold abroad, it's still a somewhat pricey purchase. The general rule of thumb is the deeper the color, the better the quality, and always shop at reputable stores to ensure you’re not sold a fake.

3. Mapuche silverware

Indigenous women of the Lake District traditionally wore handcrafted silver earrings, headdresses and other pieces of jewelry as a sign of wealth. Dramatic silver pieces are still made by Mapuche women in this region today.

You might recognize the grape-based brandy known as pisco from Peru, but Chile shares the claim too. The battle of the birthplace of pisco has been going on for centuries.

Must-visit places in Chile

With so much on offer in Chile, from glacier trekking to wine tasting, it can be hard to choose which places to visit. Here are  a few must-visit places  to consider.

1. Santiago

Santiago is Chile's bustling capital. Set within a circle of snow-capped mountains, this city is a stone's throw from outdoor adventures (if you can ever leave, that is). From traditional European buildings in artsy neighborhoods to a brilliant food scene and thriving nightclubs, Santiago has it all.

2. Valparaiso

With its colorful buildings, mural-filled streets and labyrinthine laneways lined with cafes and galleries, Valparaiso  is arguably Chile's most creative city. Sip pisco sours on a rooftop in the historic center, rub shoulders with local artists or visit a restaurant credited with the invention of chorrillana.

3. Patagonia

Chile and Argentina both stake a claim over  Patagonia  — and it's no wonder when the region is  this  beautiful. Think rolling grasslands flanked by snow-clad peaks, remarkably blue lakes, beech forests and huge glaciers. Patagonia was practically made for adventuring.

4. San Pedro de Atacama

Welcome to the driest town on earth. San Pedro de Atacama is also home to some of Chile's most dramatic landscapes, from hissing geysers to imposing volcanoes and sprawling salt flats. Go sandboarding in the dunes, explore the stunning Moon Valley or admire one of the most impressive night skies you've ever seen.

Similar destinations

Inspired by Chile but still curious about other destinations? Check out our tours to neighboring countries:

Uruguay tours

If you've narrowed it down to Argentina and Chile,  check out our Chile vs Argentina blog  to help you decide.

Further reading

Chile travel faqs, do i need a visa to travel to chile.

Travelers from over 90 countries do not need a visa to enter Chile. This includes passport holders from other South American countries, the European Union, the United Kingdom, the United States and Canada. Visa-exempt travelers will usually receive an entry stamp valid for 90 days on arrival.

Citizens from other countries will need to apply for a visa online or at your nearest embassy or consulate prior to travel. Tourist visas can grant entry for up to 90 days.

Visit the official Chilean Consulate website for more information .

In any case, your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Chile.

The page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 07/12/2023

When is the best time to visit Chile?

Chile’s substantial length ensures that the climate is incredibly varied, and the best time to visit depends on your chosen destinations.

Summer (December to March) is possibly the best time to visit Chile, as the Parque Nacional Torres del Paine and lakes region are reasonably warm. However, the trade-off is that the Atacama Desert can be very hot during this time. Summer is also festival time, so it's a good chance to experience Chile’s unique culture.

For the central and northern regions, autumn is a comfortable time to visit, but note that it can be quite cold in the south, especially at night.

Snowfall is common during winter (July to September) in the south of the country, so this is the ideal time for a skiing or snowboarding holiday.

Is tipping customary in Chile?

It's customary to lea ve an extra 10% on top of your restaurant bill if you've had great service. The same goes for tipping porters and other service workers. Feel free to leave spare change or tip extra if you're particularly impressed with the service.

What is the internet access like in Chile?

Wi-fi access is widely available in cafes, bars and restaurants in cities and tourist areas. However, you may struggle to find wi-fi in rural and remote areas.

Can I use my cell phone while in Chile?

Cell phone coverage is good in Chile’s cities, but may not be available in rural and mountainous areas. Ensure global roaming is activated with your service provider before leaving home.

What are the toilets like in Chile?

Toilets in Chile will vary depending on what area you are traveling in. Flushable, western-style toilets are common in the cities, large hotels, malls, and clubs but more modest squat toilets are the standard in rural areas and while camping. Either way, carrying a supply of toilet paper and soap is a good idea, as these aren’t always available in public toilets.

Can I drink the water in Chile?

Tap water is generally safe to drink in Chile, though some may get an upset stomach from the different mineral content. If you have a delicate stomach, you may want to opt for filtered water to avoid this. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, bring a reusable water bottle that can be filled with filtered water. Your leader or hotel can tell you where to find filtered water.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Chile?

Major credit cards are widely accepted in Chile’s large cities and towns but may not be accepted by smaller vendors such as family restaurants and market stalls in small towns and rural areas. Make sure to carry enough cash when visiting these parts in case credit cards are not an option.

What is ATM access like in Chile?

ATMs are found widely throughout Chile, so withdrawing cash shouldn't be problematic in most areas. Some smaller villages and rural areas may not have ATM access, so prepare for this before venturing too far from a city or major town.

Will I experience altitude sickness in Chile?

Most people can start to feel the effects of altitude at over 6561ft ( 2000m) regardless of age, gender, or fitness level. Santiago is well below this elevation, but travelers heading to San Pedro de Atacama and the northern and central Andes might experience symptoms of high altitude. It’s important to take it easy, drink plenty of water and speak to your group leader at once if you feel unwell.

We recommend seeing your doctor if you have any health concerns before undertaking the trip, particularly if you have a pre-existing medical condition or take any medication.

Do I need any vaccinations before visiting Chile?

No vaccines are required in order to enter Chile but some are recommended for protection against disease. Visit your doctor or travel clinic for advice and make sure to schedule vaccinations 4–6 weeks before your departure date, as some require time to become effective.

Is Chile a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Chile is a relatively hassle-free destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers. Though traditionally a very Catholic and conservative nation, attitudes are slowly changing. Same-sex marriage was legalized in 2015 and people are now more open about their sexuality.

Santiago hosts an annual gay pride parade and has an active gay scene, particularly in Barrio Bellavista. Beach resorts such as Vina del Mar also have a number of gay clubs. You may find that attitudes are less liberal outside of big cities.

Transgender rights and public attitudes are also developing. The Chilean government signed a bill into law in 2019 to allow people aged 18 and over to change their legal gender and name on Chile's Civil Registry. Teenagers between the ages of 14 and 18 can also do so in court.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting   Equaldex  or   ILGA   before you travel.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip to Chile support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Chile directly support our foundation partner, Torres Del Paine Legacy Fund . 

Torres Del Paine Legacy Fund  

The Huemul, also known as the South Andean Deer, are almost exclusively found in southern Patagonia and are currently endangered. Torres del Paine Legacy Fund is helping to conserve the endangered huemul by improving visitor management, advancing community education and tourism industry engagement, and mitigating the human-wildlife conflict in Torres del Paine National Park. Donations from our trips help Torres del Paine's huemul habitat conservation work.

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.  

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"From the world's driest desert to the Patagonia glaciers, and from the sunny vineyards to the Moai of Easter Island, I'll show you how to navigate all the diverse landscapes of Chile."

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Discover the colourful fishing town of Puerto Natales

See the bright rooftops of Puerto Natales, a fishing town in the Señoret Channel in southern Patagonia. It’s the famous gateway to Torres del Paine, but the city has its own treasures. Take a walk along the waterfront where you can spot wild swans and ducks, and admire the backdrop of rugged mountains.

Visit Torres del Paine National Park

Venture deep into UNESCO-listed crown jewel of Chilean Patagonia with our Local Specialists. Explore the churning Salto Grande waterfall and the famous peaks of the Cordillera Paine. Take a boat ride to see the Grey Glacier and embark on hikes to see the incredible natural icons up close.

See the icy turquoise sheets of the Serrano Glacier

We’ll take you on a spectacular boat ride through icy fjords to see the glittering blue Serrano Glacier. Join our Local Specialists for a hike through the unspoiled rainforest to Seno de Última Esperanza (Fjord of the Last Hope), where you’ll enjoy magnificent views of the Southern Patagonian Icefield.

Boat up the Rio Serrano

Our Chile private tours will take you on a boat journey up the Rio Serrano, a river winding through the Magallanes wilderness of Chile. The Serrano takes you past a trove of natural beauty, from the dazzling blue Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers, to the Southern Patagonian Icefield and Seno de Última Esperanza.

Explore the capital of Chile, colorful Santiago

Santiago is the vibrant capital of Chile and our Local Specialists will reveal the wonders of the city. Climb Cerro Santa Lucia for panoramic views, explore the Central Market and sample local delicacies, or visit the Casablanca Valley where you’ll meet a local winemaker and enjoy an exclusive tasting in the beautiful vineyards.

Our top 5 things to do in Chile

Discover the highlights and hidden gems of the country on our Chile vacation tours, from the jagged peaks of Torres del Paine to the scenic beauty of the Rio Serrano.

Chascona House Museum

Located in the Bellavista neighborhood of Santiago, Chascona House was the home of Chilean poet Pablo Neruda. He named the home ‘La Chascona’ (‘tangle-haired woman’) after his wife Matilde, and today it’s an excellent museum full of his personal possessions, including a painting by Diego Rivera.

Museum of Memory and Human Rights

Set in Santiago, the Museum of Memory and Human Rights was founded to commemorate the victims of human rights abuses during the regime of Chilean dictator Augusto Pinochet between 1973 and 1990. The museum has three floors with audio exhibits, interactive photography, newspaper archives and video footage of detention centres.

Chilean National Museum of Fine Arts

Housed in a beautiful building across from the Parque Forestal in Santiago, the Chilean National Museum of Fine Arts holds one of the finest collections of Chilean and Latin art. You’ll wander through the spectacular entrance to discover over 5,000 works ranging from Spanish paintings to African sculptures.

Best museums in Chile

Our escorted tours of Chile take you to the country’s top museums, from the former home of Chilean poet Pablo Neruda, to a commemoration of the victims of the Pinochet regime.

Traditionally made from deep-fried wheat dough, a sopaipilla is South America’s version of doughnuts. In Chile, they’re made with pumpkin in the dough, and served as a side dish with pebre, a chili sauce, or as a delicious dessert after being boiled in a chancaca sauce, a hot sweet syrup.

A classic Chilean condiment found across the country, pebre is served with many meals including fried sopaipilla, or spread on bread and meat. It’s a sauce of chili pepper, garlic, onion, olive oil and coriander, although variations can be found in different regions and households.

Empanadas are a beloved dish across Latin America. In Chile, they’re traditionally made with a filling called ‘pino’, a mix of ground beef, raisins, onions, black olives and hard boiled eggs. Our Local Specialists will show you where to try the best empanadas at any time of the year.

Best food in Chile

We’ll take you on a culinary journey through Chile, as we reveal the best places to try classic empanadas and delicious sopaipilla.

What to pack for Chile

Hiking shoes

Whether you’re trekking the snowy peaks of Patagonia, or traversing ancient volcanoes in the Atacama Desert, you’ll need a sturdy pair of shoes in Chile.

Wind and waterproof coat

The southern region of Chile is known for its fierce winds and chilly weather, so you’ll need a reliable coat to protect you from the elements.

Reusable water bottle

Chile is full of outdoor adventure and a reusable water bottle will help you stay hydrated without contributing to the plastic waste in the pristine national parks.

Adaptor plug

In Chile the standard voltage is 220 V and the power plugs and sockets are of type C and L. The standard frequency is 50 Hz.

Chile is enormous, spanning the equivalent of the entire length of the USA, and a pair of headphones will provide entertainment on the long scenic journeys.

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and refillable toiletry bottles.

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Patagonia: Torres Del Paine ‘W’ Trek – 5 Days

Patagonia: torres del paine ‘o’ trek – 8 days, epic patagonia, torres del paine - the w trek, essential patagonia, northern highway (carretera austral) - group tour, 6-days trip to easter island, torres del paine - full circuit trek, 8 - days unique experience in san pedro de atacama & easter island (rapa nui), patagonia: torres del paine classic w trek.

“I had a great time on this tour. I would recommend renting crampons and bringing a warm sleeping bag.” Sampson Zhu, traveled in May 2024

• Hiking & Trekking
• Mountain Hikes
• Christmas & New Year
• Trek to the iconic Mirador Base Torres
• Witness the majestic Gray Glacier
• Explore the stunning French Valley

“This was a great experience- well run with thought and care and the group were great.” Elana Leigh, traveled in April 2023

• Camp beside the serene Dickson Glacier
• Witness ice falls in the Valle del Francés
• Cross suspension bridges over Grey Glacier

“Epic adventure, everything was perfectly organized.” Rosemary Reed, traveled in February 2024

• Marvel at the impressive and mesmerising Grey Glacier
• Trek in Patagonia's famous Torres del Paine National Park
• Climb through a beautiful lenga forest to the Las Torres Towers

“Fantastic guides and the itinerary.” ARUN KANNAPPAN, traveled in January 2019

• Hike to Las Torres and see the turquoise lagoon
• Conclude with a ferry ride across Lake Pehoé
• Explore Puerto Natales before your trek

“The information and stories they shared about the sites we visited enhanced our experience tremendously.” diem thai, traveled in February 2023

• Gaze in awe at the massive and mesmerising Grey Glacier

“The salt flats are incredible, and we saw loads of flamingos! Highlight is the hot springs - we went in in the evening which was amazing watching the stars!” Amy Corner, traveled in September 2022

• Visit the stunning Petrohué Waterfalls
• Explore Pumalin Park's rainforest and fjords
• Trek through lush Queulat National Park

“We visited beautiful places, we could see the famous islands of Chile where the famous sculptures are found.” JackCamp, traveled in February 2019

• In-depth Cultural
• Sightseeing
• Swim at the pristine Anakena beach
• Explore the iconic moai at Ahu Tongariki
• Experience a traditional Polynesian show

“Extremely well prepared and organised with exceptional people skills to lead a diverse group of participants.” Bruce Shortland-Jones, traveled in November 2018

• Hike through ancient Lenga forests
• Camp under the stars at Laguna Azul
• Explore the vast Grey Glacier

“We were able to meet a new part of Chile and is beutiful. It is the first time we chose Signature Tours and they knew to be at the level we were looking for.” LeticeCasey, traveled in December 2018

• Visit the Altiplanic Lagoons
• Stargaze in the Atacama Desert
• Explore the Moon Valley landscapes

• Spot wildlife along Lake Nordenskjold
• Explore Puerto Natales and its local history
• Witness the majestic Torres del Paine

More about Chile

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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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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. In March 2024, I returned and stayed at the incredible Lodge Deseado (read about my experiences in Tierra del Fuego and how you can visit independently ).

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!

Santiago   Travel Guide

15 Best Things to Do in Santiago, Chile

In Santiago, there are dramatic vistas at every turn – from the sprawling cityscape visible at the top of San Cristóbal hill to the ever-present Andes Mountains and their snow-covered slopes, which snake along the eastern horizon. Down below,

• All Things To Do

San Cristóbal Hill (Cerro San Cristóbal) San Cristóbal Hill (Cerro San Cristóbal) free

San Cristóbal Hill (Cerro San Cristóbal) stands nearly 3,000 feet above the rest of Metropolitan Park, a large swath of green spread between the neighborhoods of Providencia and Vitacura. The hill's height affords spectacular views to those who visit the summit. To reach the top of the hill, you'll need to hop on the funicular located on the north end of Pío Nono Street, which flanks the western side of Metropolitan Park. Or, if you're up for the challenge, you can strap on some hiking shoes and make the roughly one-hour climb up the hill from the base at Plaza Caupolicán, which is a quick walk from the Baquedano stop on metro Lines 1 and 5.

Regardless of whether you decide to make the journey to the top of the hill on foot or by funicular, you'll be rewarded with iconic photo-ops of the city below, as well as unrivaled views of the statue of the Virgin Mary at the summit. Recent visitors mentioned checking the smog levels before setting off and trying to plan the trip on clear days for the best panoramas.

Santa Lucía Hill (Cerro Santa Lucía) Santa Lucía Hill (Cerro Santa Lucía) free

A hilltop park on the eastern edge of downtown Santiago, Santa Lucía Hill (Cerro Santa Lucía) draws visitors with its panoramic views. To reach the top of Santa Lucía Hill on foot, head to the park's main entrance near the Santa Lucía metro stop. You'll know you're there when you find the mustard-yellow Neptuno Fountain. From here, follow the stairs to a narrow zig-zagging path punctuated by high stone steps.

Though the walk can be arduous (especially on a hot summer day), recent travelers remark that it's well worth the climb not only for incredible photo-ops, but also for the pleasant ambiance – complete with leafy promenades and castle-like fortifications. For the best views, walk all the way up to the Terraza Caupolicán, a hilltop terrace with buskers, benches and public art. 

Sky Costanera Sky Costanera

The 62-story Gran Torre Santiago is the tallest building in South America, looming large over the city from the high-rise "Sanhattan" district. At the very top is Sky Costanera, a panoramic observation deck towering approximately 1,000 feet above street level with 360-degree vistas over the city, the Andes and the distant coastal range (smog-permitting). There's an alluring bar and coffee shop at the top, so you can enjoy a craft cocktail or latte with the view.

Down below is the Costanera Center, where many visitors report having a fabulous experience shopping and taking advantage of special discounts for foreign tourists. One of the largest malls in Latin America, this six-floor mecca is a fantastic place to stock up on supplies for trips further afield in Chile, with the city's best supermarket (Jumbo), department stores (including Falabella) and outdoor brands (like Doite), as well as a host of familiar international chains.

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Lastarria Lastarria free

U.S. News Insider Tip: While in the neighborhood, be sure to stop by the bottle shop Santiago Wine Club to learn about Chile's boutique, organic and natural wines. The store has one of the city's best selections and frequently hosts tastings. – Mark Johanson

Lastarria may be small in size, spanning just four city blocks, but it makes a big impression on visitors as the most alluring neighborhood in Santiago's historic center. The nucleolus of the city's art scene, it's home to some of Chile's most important galleries and museums. Chief among them is the National Museum of Fine Arts (Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes), which has an impressive permanent collection and hosts rotating exhibitions throughout the year. Nearby is the Visual Arts Museum (Museo de Artes Visuales), which showcases the work of emerging Latin American artists, as well as the Gabriela Mistral Cultural Center (GAM), which displays contemporary art in the basement while staging theater and dance performances on the upper floors.

Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedral Metropolitana) Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedral Metropolitana) free

Flanking the western edge of the Plaza de Armas , this neoclassical cathedral has a history that stretches back to 1541, when Spanish conquistador and city founder Pedro de Valdivia requested a place of worship be constructed at the edge of Santiago's colonial square. However, throughout the three centuries that followed, the original building succumbed to numerous fires and earthquakes. The towering cathedral that stands today underwent construction around 1750, and in the 1780s, Italian architect Joaquín Toesca added a new twist: a blend of neoclassical style with baroque elements. The result is an interior that boasts intricate stained-glass windows and an elaborate altar ornamented with marble and deep blue lapis lazuli.

Although you'll have to battle dense crowds to see the interior of this church, recent visitors agree that the cathedral is a must-see thanks to its stunning floor tiles and frescoed ceilings. It can be a particularly evocative experience during religious celebrations, including Easter and Christmas.

Santiago Wineries Santiago Wineries

Wine connoisseurs love the aromatic vino and colorful scenery found in the Maipo Valley. A smattering of both big and boutique wine producers – renowned for their flavorful reds, especially cabernet sauvignon – can be found within an hour's drive of central Santiago. One of the Maipo Valley's most tourist-friendly vineyards is Viña Undurraga, which has an enchanting haceinda-style tasting room. Meanwhile, its most well-known winery is Concha y Toro. Situated in Pirque, a major wine-producing area about 15 miles southeast of Santiago, Concha y Toro pairs globally famous wines with flavorful small dishes and offers tours of its vineyards every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from 22,000 Chilean pesos (approximately $26) per person. According to recent visitors, the walks through the vineyard were quite nice, while the guides were exceptionally professional. For further details, visit Concha y Toro's website .

There are also a handful of venerable and up-and-coming wineries scattered across Chile's Casablanca Valley (about 50 miles northwest of Santiago). This region's wineries specialize in cool-climate grapes like sauvignon blanc and pinot noir. To arrange a trip to a variety of wineries across the valley without having to rent your own set of wheels, plan your trip on the Casablanca Valley Wine Producers Association website (Spanish only).

La Chascona Museum House (Casa Museo de La Chascona) La Chascona Museum House (Casa Museo de La Chascona)

For literary aficionados, no trip to Santiago would be complete without visiting La Chascona, the former residence of Noble Prize-winning poet Pablo Neruda. Named "La Chascona" – or the "Woman with the Tousled Hair" for Neruda's third wife, Matilde Urrutia, who was characterized by her red, wavy strands – the converted museum today houses a rare collection of Neruda's personal possessions, including a portrait of Neruda's third wife painted by Diego Rivera. 

While you're free to explore the museum on your own, previous visitors recommend taking advantage of the audio guide tour (included in the cost of admission and available in a variety of languages, including English), which provides a rich background of Neruda's life, as well as some needed context. They add that, even if you're not a fan of Neruda, you should still plan a visit for the architecture alone. They also compliment the neighborhood the house is located in and say it houses several tasty restaurants. 

Plaza de Armas Plaza de Armas free

Spanish conquistador Pedro de Valdivia (who founded Santiago) established this historic square back in 1541, creating a religious and political hub teeming with architectural treasures. Amid the many sights on display in the Plaza de Armas, you can't miss the graceful Metropolitan Cathedral set along its western border. You'll also stumble upon the former Governor's Palace, which has been converted into the city's main post office as well as the Historical Museum (Museo Histórico Nacional), which houses fascinating exhibits cataloguing Chile's history from the pre-Conquest period to the 20th century. Meanwhile, the plaza fills with musicians, artists, photographers, performers and street vendors on a daily basis, making this a popular spot to simply relax and soak up the city's culture.

A recent visitor found this palm covered square to be the soul of the city, with many museums within a few blocks, including the Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art and the National History Museum of Chile. It is also, in recent years, a hub for Santiago's immigrant communities, with several Peruvian, Colombian, Venezuelan and Haitian restaurants nearby.

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Bicentenario Park (Parque Bicentenario) Bicentenario Park (Parque Bicentenario) free

Bicentenario Park is one of the city's most serene corners, located along the southern edge of the Mapocho River in the heart of Santiago's ritziest enclave, Vitacura. Since it's shaded in perky palms and riddled with winding paths, it's as great for a picnic as it is for a leisurely stroll or a bike ride. Numerous events are staged here throughout the year, including design expos, wine fairs and craft shows. There are also open-air film screenings and occasional theatrical performances in the summer months.

Recent visitors praised the view back toward the high-rise "Sanhattan" district, noting that this park is one of the best spots in town to appreciate the capital's growing skyline. They also appreciate how clean and neatly manicured the grounds are, with sprawling playgrounds, swan-filled ponds and even a flamingo enclosure. Many visitors recommend capping off a visit with a meal (or pisco sour) at the park restaurant, Mestizo.

Museum of Memory and Human Rights (Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos) Museum of Memory and Human Rights (Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Five blocks east of the museum is one of the capital's most beloved restaurants, Peluquería Francesa, which serves French-tinged Chilean cuisine. Part old-school barbershop, part antique-filled eatery, dining here is like stepping back in time to the Santiago of yore. – Mark Johanson

If you're looking to learn more about General Augusto Pinochet's dictatorship, plan a visit to the Museum of Memory and Human Rights (Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos). The museum catalogues Pinochet's 17-year rule during the last Chilean military dictatorship, which resulted in the torture, murder and disappearance of thousands of Chileans. According to many recent visitors, the museum succeeds in increasing cultural awareness of the ways persecutions, imprisonments and torture during Pinochet's rule have had a ripple effect on Chilean society to this day. The museum pays tribute to the thousands of lives lost between 1973 and 1990 through photographs of victims, video coverage of protesters, and a host of legal documents, letters and artifacts from the late 20th century. According to recent visitors, the majority of the informational displays are written in Spanish. However, there is an audio guide you can download that includes narration in English. You'll have to pay 2,000 Chilean pesos (about $2) to access the audio guide, say recent visitors.

Barrio Bellavista Barrio Bellavista free

Beckoning an alternative crowd, the Bellavista neighborhood features graffiti-lined streets with restaurants, boutique shops and – more than anything else – late-night dance clubs. Here, you'll find inventive cocktail bars and eclectic eateries next to historic homes and colonial mansions. Spend some time exploring La Chascona – the former home of celebrated poet Pablo Neruda – before scouring the Patio Bellavista shopping area for souvenirs. Also, be sure to continue north to take in the scenery from Santiago's crown jewel: San Cristóbal Hill , a nearly 3,000-foot high hill tucked inside Metropolitan Park.

The vibrant nightlife, leafy parklands and laid-back vibes found in Bellavista make this a popular hangout spot among travelers and locals alike. It is particularly popular with backpackers and budget travelers, who have several character-rich lodging options. According to some recent visitors, the best way to experience the neighborhood is by wandering away from the main drag, Pío Nono, to search for the colorful homes and lavish art found on the side streets.

Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art (Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino) Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art (Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino)

Outdoor enthusiasts flock to the Andes' jagged peaks and wine lovers explore the Maipo Valley's spectacular vineyards . Meanwhile, art history buffs head to the Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art (Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino). The museum's permanent collection includes a diverse assemblage of pottery, sculptures and textiles from Mesoamerica, the Amazon, the Caribbean and Central and Southern Andes. Highlights include pieces from the Inca and Aztec empires and Chinchorro mummies, a funerary technique that's 2,000 years older than the Egyptian method. The temporary exhibits, which showcase everything from desert hats to weavings to rock art, are also worth visiting.

Travelers praise the museum for its versatile collection of artifacts and well-designed layout. Many are amazed by the extent and quality of the collection, noting that the museum is well designed. However, a few were disappointed that some of the descriptions are only labeled in Spanish. Others said the text is small and the lighting is dim, which they cited as other potential obstacles for reading the exhibition labels.

La Moneda Palace (Palacio de La Moneda) La Moneda Palace (Palacio de La Moneda) free

La Moneda is the palace of the President of the Republic of Chile, covering an entire city block with flag-filled plazas on either end. Originally the colonial-era mint, it only served that purpose for two decades before being converted to the seat of government it is today. The striking neoclassical building has been the site of many pivotal moments in Chilean history, including military strikes during the 1973 coup, during which the democratically-elected president, Salvador Allende, died by suicide inside.

Most visitors come to the palace today to see what's down beneath it. The subterranean La Moneda Cultural Center (CCLM) is a colossal space holding six galleries of varying sizes dedicated to photography, cultural heritage, design, children's programming, modern art and history. Exhibits change several times throughout the year and include a robust schedule of cultural programming. CCLM also includes the national cinema (which hosts art house film screenings), two cafes and several shops. Recent visitors raved about both the museum store and a gallery-like outpost of Artesanías de Chile, which sells fair-trade Chilean crafts sourced from the Atacama Desert and Patagonia.

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Central Market (Mercado Central) Central Market (Mercado Central) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Just across the Mapocho River is Santiago's sprawling vegetable market, La Vega Central, where you can try local fruits (like cherimoya ), vegetables (like endemic Chiloé potatoes) and nuts (like piñones from the araucaria tree). – Mark Johanson

To get your seafood fix in Santiago, head straight to the Central Market (Mercado Central). Here, you'll find a festive atmosphere and top-grade fish. As you walk past the stalls and stands, you'll come across rarities like the giant abalone loco , prickly sea urchins and fleshy tunicates like piure , among other unconventional offerings. Venture to the center of the market to indulge in local cuisine – like ceviche and seafood empanadas – as you listen to live music. Even if you're not a fan of seafood, the Central Market is worth a visit: You'll find an eclectic assortment of fruits, vegetables and spices here as well. As you eat your way through the stalls, don't forget to admire the surrounding architecture. Set beneath a wrought-iron ceiling raised in 1872, the market impresses as much with its lively ambiance as its setting.

Santiago Ski Resorts Santiago Ski Resorts

U.S. News Insider Tip: The Andes above Santiago are also an excellent place for a hike, particularly in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. Most visitors head to the Maipo Canyon where there are several public and private parks. – Mark Johanson

Just above Santiago – and visible on a clear day – are the Tres Valles Ski Resorts, which all lie high in the Andes between 8,000 and 12,000 feet above sea level in the mountain town of Farellones. La Parva is often considered the most exclusive of the resorts here, while El Colorado is more kid-friendly and family-oriented (though its snow park is billed as the best in the Andes). Valle Nevado, meanwhile, offers the largest skiable terrain in South America (more than 2,000 acres) and is a member of several multi-resort passes you can purchase in the U.S. It's also the resort most prepared to receive international visitors with bilingual workers and an English-language website.

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