Chile

Travel Guide
Forest Park showing a sunset and a park as well as a large group of people
Explore deserts, mountain lakes, volcanoes, ski slopes and trekking routes in one of South America’s most varied and adventure-filled countries.

Nestled between the southern Andes and the Pacific Ocean, Chile is a country of diverse landscapes, sweeping coastlines and adventure sports. This narrow strip of land that runs along the southwesterly edge of South America transforms from desert, beach towns and vineyards into glaciers and ski mountains. Hiking, rafting, skiing and surfing are just some of the adventures offered in Chile.

Chile’s energetic capital city, Santiago, is centrally located in the country and a major transport hub. Explore eclectic neighborhoods against a backdrop of the snow-capped Andes. Check out Valparaiso, a colorful and bohemian coastal city, spread across more than 40 hills. In Viña del Mar, find palm tree-lined boulevards, lavish resorts and white-sand beaches.

Northern Chile is dominated by the Atacama Desert, one of the driest deserts in the world. Visit a copper mine in Calama. Enjoy superb star-gazing at Paranal Observatory. Tour the vineyards and Pisco distilleries in the Elqui Valley. Admire colonial architecture in La Serena, established in 1544. Relax on the beaches of Arica, Antofagasta and Iquique, part of Chile’s 4,000-mile (6,450-kilometer) long coastline.

Find Chile’s wine region in the Central Valley, south of Santiago. Take a scenic train journey from San Fernando to Santa Cruz. Visit a huaso (cowboy) ranch in Rancagua. Surf big waves at Punta de Lobos. Discover majestic waterfalls, ice-capped volcanoes and biking, hiking and horse-riding trails among the foothills of the Andes in the Lake District.

The southerly Patagonia Region is a paradise for lovers of the outdoors. Spot penguins in Parque Nacional Isla Magdalena. Cruise past giant glaciers or hike among mountains and lakes in Laguna San Rafael National Park and Torres del Paine National Park. Step onboard an Antarctica-bound boat at Punta Arenas.

Chile is a welcoming and safe country with a dependable network of cross-country buses. Temperatures vary greatly, from the mild northern climate to snow in the south. Ski between June and September. Beside its innumerable attractions, Chile is also a gateway to the mysterious Easter Island.

Popular cities in Chile

National History Museum showing a city and street scenes
Santiago
Known for Shopping, Tours and Museums
The capital city of Chile is famous for its colonial-era architecture, lively arts scene and breathtaking mountain scenery.

Reasons to visit

  • San Cristobal Hill
  • Lastarria District
  • Costanera Center
Valparaiso featuring landscape views and a city
Valparaiso
Known for Walking, Tours and Cafes
Chile’s historic seaport city is famous for picturesque hilltop neighborhoods, colonial architecture, grand plazas and open-air art galleries.

Reasons to visit

  • Port of Valparaiso
  • La Sebastiana Museum
  • Plaza Sotomayor
San Pedro de Atacama as well as a small group of people
San Pedro de Atacama
Known for Tours, Deserts and Scenery
View some of the most fascinating natural elements you will ever see in this salty desert landscape reminiscent of a sci-fi film.

Reasons to visit

  • Valley of the Moon
  • Plaza de San Pedro de Atacama
  • Piedra del Coyote Overlook
Anakena Beach featuring a beach as well as a small group of people
Hanga Roa
Known for Islands, Tours and Sea
Experience the markets, museums and bustle of the island’s principal town and see the mysterious ceremonial sites and volcanic wonders on its outskirts.

Reasons to visit

  • Rapa Nui National Park
  • Anakena Beach
  • Ahu Akivi
Punta Arenas featuring a coastal town and a city
Punta Arenas
Known for Tours, Excursions and Museums
Home to colonial mansions, tree-lined squares and national parks, this remote Chilean city is also a gateway to the fascinating Tierra del Fuego.

Reasons to visit

  • Punta Arenas Cemetery
  • Palacio Sara Braun
  • Plaza Munoz Gamero
Wulff Castle showing château or palace, general coastal views and heritage elements
Vina del Mar
Known for Walking, Relaxing and Cafes
Visit Chile’s Garden City, which has beautiful parks, colonial architecture, surfing beaches and a famous music festival featuring international artists.

Reasons to visit

  • Flower Clock
  • Wulff Castle

Popular places to visit

Chile

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