Looking for glaciers, deserts, wine country, and world-class hiking? Head to Chile! Stretching over 2,600 miles from the Atacama Desert to Patagonia, Chile offers stunning geographic diversity, vibrant culture, and outdoor adventure. Whether you're trekking in Torres del Paine, exploring Santiago’s arts scene, or stargazing in the north, Chile is a dream destination for nature lovers and explorers alike.
Chile Highlights:
- For Adventurers: Hike in Torres del Paine National Park – Trek dramatic landscapes of mountains, lakes, and glaciers in Patagonia’s crown jewel.
- For Desert Explorers: Discover the Atacama Desert – Visit salt flats, geysers, and moon-like valleys in the world’s driest desert.
- For City Lovers: Explore Santiago – Chile’s capital offers museums, markets, nightlife, and views from Cerro San Cristóbal.
- For Wine Enthusiasts: Tour Chilean wine valleys – Sip Carménère and Sauvignon Blanc in the Maipo, Colchagua, and Casablanca Valleys.
- For Culture Seekers: Visit Valparaíso – A UNESCO-listed port city known for colorful street art, historic funiculars, and bohemian charm.
When I like to visit Chile
The best time to visit depends on the region:
- Patagonia (south): November–March for hiking and outdoor activities.
- Central Chile (Santiago/Valparaíso): September–May for sunny weather and vineyard visits.
- Atacama Desert (north): Year-round, with mild temperatures and little rain.
Tips for getting to Chile
- By Plane: Santiago’s Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) is the main gateway, with direct flights from North and South America, Europe, and Oceania.
- By Land: Border crossings are available from Argentina, Bolivia, and Peru, often near major mountain passes.
- By Cruise: Some Patagonian cruises include ports in southern Chile, including Punta Arenas and Puerto Montt.
Where I like to stay in Chile
- Santiago: Hotel Magnolia – A chic boutique hotel in the city center with rooftop views and historic flair.
- San Pedro de Atacama: Tierra Atacama – Luxurious desert lodge with excursions and stargazing opportunities.
- Torres del Paine: EcoCamp Patagonia – Eco-friendly geodesic domes offering comfort and adventure in a wild setting.
Best Things to Do in Chile
1. Adventure Through the Dramatic Landscapes of Cajon del Maipo
Cajon del Maipo is an expansive canyon near Santiago. The gorge features the Maipo River, El Volcan River, Colorado River, and Yeso River as well as many other minor streams. There are many tourist companies that offer day trips to Cajon del Maipo and take visitors on a journey to explore the valley. The sites around the canyon are breathtaking, and visitors will be able to see panoramic views of the mountains that surround them. Outdoor activities such as trekking, swimming in the hot springs, horse riding, and bike riding, are available for visitors to take part in.
Cajon del Maipo, 19790, Comercio 19708, San José de Maipo, Región Metropolitana, Chile, Phone: +5-69-45-55-60-17
2. If You Love Birdwatching, Wander the Tunquén Wetland Nature Sanctuary
The Tunquen Wetland Nature Sanctuary includes dunes, ravines, cliffs and a stunning sandy beach. The sanctuary is home to unique animals, plants and numerous species of birds, including herons, the Huairavos, Trile, Oyster Catcher, the Taguas and Hualas. The Tunquen Wetland Nature Sanctuary is loacted at the northern end of Tunquen Beach, at the mouth of the Estero Casablanca River. The closest place to stay is Tunquen Magico which offers magnificent ocean views and a number of luxury amenities. Map
3. Admire Masterpieces at the Chilean National Museum of Fine Arts
The Chilean National Museum of Fine Arts was established in 1880, making it the oldest museum of its kind in South America. The museum is managed by the Artistic Union and has grown to become one of the leading centers for Chilean and South American art. Housed in the Palace of Fine Arts, the beaux arts-style building itself is a stunning piece of work designed by Chilean architect Emile Jequier. Some of the current exhibitions visitors can enjoy include The Traffic of the Earth, which is a photographic installation by Spanish photographer Xavier Ribas, Another Way of Looking at Infinity, which is a fractal set by Soledad Chadwick, and Draw the Limit, which includes a collection of videos, photographs, and drawings by artist Janet Toro.
Chilean National Museum of Fine Arts, Ismael Valdés Vergara 506 Santiago, Bellas Artes, Phone: +5-62-29-77-17-55
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
4. Soak In Stunning Reflections at Chungara Lake
Located all the way in the north of Chile, Chungara Lake can be found within the exquisite Lauca National Park. The park itself is filled with mountains and volcanoes but the lake is a special feature of the park and attracts many visitors throughout the year. Ranked as the 31st highest lake in the world, visitors will get a stunning view of the expansive water of body and the Parinocota and Pomerape volcanoes beside it. There are many animals near the lake that visitors will be able to see, including alpacas, guanacos, llamas, and foxes. Ornithology lovers will see many species of birds such as the Chilean flamingo, small jergon duck, and the puna partridge. Map
If you are a photographer, don't miss:
5. Witness the Power of Nature at El Tatio Geysers
A geyser found on the Andes Mountains in northern Chile, El Tatio is one of the highest-elevated geysers in the world. The field has over 80 active geysers, with some of them erupting to over 6 meters high. The site has become a major tourist attractions and visitors can find many tour companies that offer transport to and tours of El Tatio. Sunrise is the most popular time for visitors to head to the geyser field as the cold air condenses the stream and creates some stunning views. Visitors are also able to bathe in the small pools of hot geyser water that can be found in the area. Map
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
6. Step Into Political History at La Moneda Palace
La Moneda Palace, which translates to Palace of the Currency, is the seat of the President of the Republic of Chile. Occupying an entire block in downtown Santiago, is also houses the offices of three of the country’s cabinet ministers. La Moneda Palace has become a Chilean attraction mostly because of its stunning neoclassical architecture with Roman Doric influences. It is often said that the palace is the only structure in Latin American that was built in pure Italian neoclassical style. Visitors are invited to explore the public Citizenry Square as well as the Palacio de La Moneda Cultural Center, which hosts historical and cultural exhibitions throughout the year.
La Moneda Palace, Moneda S/N, Santiago, Región Metropolitana, Chile, Phone: +5-62-26-90-40-00
7. Marvel at Coastal Cliffs at La Portada
La Portada is one of Chile’s 15 natural monuments considered a protected area of Chile. The natural arch can be seen 11 miles off the coast of Chile and is made of black andesite stone, sedimentary rock, yellow sandstone, and layers of remaining fossil shells. Formed by marine erosion, the natural monument is a beautiful site to see. Visitors will also see much of Chile’s fauna as the monument is also considered an observation site for birds such as Inca terns, Peruvian boobys, grey gulls, kelp gulls, pelicans, and Guanay cormorants. Map
8. Stand in Awe Before the Iconic Mano del Desierto
Constructed by Chilean artist Mario Irarrazabal, Mano del Desierto is a 36-foot-tall structure of a hand that looks like it’s reaching for the stars from its sandy surroundings. It can be found in the Atacama Desert and is a popular sight to see for visitors traveling the Pan-American Highway. Built with concrete and iron, the artist has said that the exaggerated size of the hand is to emphasize human helplessness and vulnerability. Many visitors enjoy stopping near the structure and taking fun photographs with the large hand – if anything, the photographic opportunity offers a great memory of a trip to Chile. Map
Where I Like to Eat in Chile
- Bocanáriz (Santiago) – Wine and food pairings featuring Chilean varietals and gourmet small plates.
- Mercado Central (Santiago) – Sample fresh seafood like congrio (eel) and chupe de mariscos (seafood stew).
- Café Turri (Valparaíso) – Scenic fine dining overlooking the bay, serving local and international dishes.
My favorite local events:
- Fiestas Patrias (September 18–19) – National holiday celebrating Chile’s independence with rodeos, folk dancing, and empanadas.
- Vendimia (Wine Harvest Festivals) (March–April) – Grape-stomping, parades, and tastings in wine regions like Colchagua.
- Festival Internacional de la Canción de Viña del Mar (February) – Major music festival with international artists and local flavor.
My favorite day trips from major Chilean cities:
- From Santiago: Cajón del Maipo – Escape to the Andes for hiking, hot springs, and glacier views.
- From Valparaíso: Isla Negra – Visit Pablo Neruda’s oceanfront home and museum.
- From Puerto Natales: Torres del Paine National Park – Stunning day hikes, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing.
- From San Pedro de Atacama: Salar de Tara – Remote salt flats surrounded by bizarre rock formations and volcanoes.
- From Pucón: Villarrica Volcano – Climb or view this active volcano and enjoy nearby thermal baths.
Plan Your Trip