Curious about the best places to visit in Chile? This diverse country has so much to offer its visitors. Chile is a long and narrow strip of land that stands out on the South American map. It’s 4,270 kilometers long and spans multiple climate zones, yet only averages 177 kilometers in width (350 kilometers at its widest point). As the second longest country in the world from north to south, trailing only Brazil, Chile’s extensive length provides a variety of landscapes and climates.
But what should you see in Chile? To help with your planning, here is a list of some of the best places to visit in this amazing country.
Torres Del Paine National Park, located in Patagonia, is one of the most beautiful regions in Chile and the world. This park features dramatic landscapes, including jagged peaks, bright blue glaciers, lakes, and golden grasslands. The park is home to various animals, including some rare species. Iconic sites include the three granite towers from which the park gets its name (Towers of Paine) and the horn-shaped peaks called Cuernos del Paine. Torres Del Paine National Park offers numerous hiking options, with the five-day, four-night, 71-kilometer W Trek being the most popular. Another major attraction is the Grey Glacier, one of the world’s most impressive glaciers. Mirador Las Torres is perhaps the most famous day hike in the park.
In northern Chile, the Atacama Desert is known as the driest desert in the world, with little to no rainfall. This beautifully desolate area boasts dramatic landscapes and stunning geologic formations. Valle de la Luna, named for its moon-like terrain, offers an out-of-this-world experience. San Pedro de Atacama, situated on the edge of the desert, is a popular destination for both local and international tourists.
Los Pingüinos Natural Monument comprises Magdalena Island and Marta Island. Established in 1966, these islands protect the Magellanic penguin from threats to their food resources. Uninhabited by humans, Magdalena Island hosts one of Chile’s most important penguin colonies, with an estimated 60,000 breeding pairs. Despite being uninhabited, the island remains a popular tourist destination.
Chile’s Lakes and Volcanoes District is a lush volcanic valley region. Climbing Villarrica Volcano, one of Chile’s most active volcanoes, is a must-do activity here. Pucón, a town in the Lake District on Lake Villarrica, is known for its adventure opportunities like canyoning, cave exploring, and horseback riding. Puerto Varas, another must-visit town in the southern Lake District, offers breathtaking views of snow-capped Osorno Volcano and Calbuco Volcano from the southwest banks of Lake Llanquihue.
Santiago, the capital and largest city of Chile, is located in a valley surrounded by mountains. Home to almost half of the nation’s population, Santiago is a vibrant city teeming with energy. It’s the perfect place to enjoy Chilean cuisine, visit various museums, and experience the nightlife. Don’t miss the city’s old colonial core and the spectacular views from San Cristóbal Hill. Barrio Bellavista, the city’s bohemian quarter, features numerous restaurants, boutiques, galleries, bars, and clubs.
Valparaiso is a major city and one of the South Pacific’s most important seaports. Known for its colorful buildings and labyrinth of cobbled alleys, Valparaiso sits on several hills above a large bay, featuring antique elevators that take you to panoramic lookouts. The historic quarter of the seaport city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Easter Island is a remote volcanic island covered with rolling hills and palm trees. Famous for its nearly 1,000 mysterious stone statues called moai, created by the early Rapa Nui people, Easter Island intrigues visitors worldwide. These statues’ purpose, construction, and transportation methods remain a mystery. Although it’s quite far from the mainland and tickets can be expensive, a visit is definitely worth it if you have the time and money.