Chile is an amazing travel destination with a stunning landscape, vibrant cities, and an incredible food and drink culture. From the stunning skyscrapers of Santiago to the jaw-dropping beauty of Patagonia, Chile has something for everyone.
This guide will introduce traveling in Chile and highlight the best places to visit and things to do. So, let’s get started!
Overview of Chile
Chile is one of South America’s most captivating countries. From amazing tropical beaches to desert plains and the towering peaks of the Andes Mountains, Chile offers a stunning variety of landscapes. With an abundance of national parks, icy glaciers, and colorful cities, Chile has something for every traveler.
Chile’s capital city is Santiago, located in the country’s center. It is a vibrant metropolis offering everything from museums, theaters, and galleries to outdoor markets, diverse restaurants, and bustling nightlife.
From Santiago, one can explore different areas within Chile that offer unique experiences. In the north are the Atacama Desert and Elqui Valley, as well as coastal towns along the Pacific Ocean like Iquique with its bubbling resorts or laid-back fishing villages like Arica in extreme northern Chile near Peru. Moving south from Santiago will take you into central Chile, where numerous vineyards are found in Maipo Valley and sun-soaked coastal towns, including Valparaiso with its fantastic street art scene, or Concepcion, which is known for its lively beaches.
In southern Chile lies Patagonia, with its large glaciers like Los Glaciares National Park, which will appeal to adventurous travelers, or Puerto Montt, where small islands rest shore luring visitors in boat tours around them.
No matter what type of scenery or activities attracts people to visit Chile, it remains an attractive tourist destination due to its stunning landscapes and welcoming locals, making it easy for travelers to navigate this intriguing country while gaining insight into Chilean culture and tradition.
Climate and When to Visit
The climate of Chile is divided into three distinct types, driven mainly by the country’s location along the South American coast. Chile’s subtropical climate can be found in the northern regions, while the central region experiences a temperate climate, and the southernmost regions enjoy a cool Mediterranean or oceanic atmosphere.
Summer runs from December through February and can reach high temperatures in some areas. Although winter normally brings rain and cool temperatures, it’s also possible to experience sunnier weather in certain parts of the country. The best time to visit depends on what type of climate you prefer, but all regions offer visitors beautiful scenery and plenty of activities to enjoy throughout the year.
Weather patterns are affected by prevailing winds across the land:
- In northern Chile, trade winds affect weather patterns from May to September, bringing cooler temperatures and increased rainfall during most years.
- The Central Valley is known for its pleasant springtime temperatures from October through April; however, rain can vary considerably year over year due to El Niño events affecting oceanic temperatures that drive up humidity levels in this region.
- Southern Patagonia has very unexpected weather, with warm summers between December and February and cold winters from June through August; snowfall occurs anywhere from May to September, depending on which part of Patagonia you visit!
Where to Go
Chile is a South American country that offers travelers a wide array of experiences. From the desert of the Atacama to the glacial lakes of Patagonia and from Santiago’s towering skylines to Easter Island’s silent mysteries, Chile has something to offer every type of traveler.
In this section, we’ll discuss some of the most popular places to visit in Chile:
Santiago
As the capital of Chile, Santiago is a must-visit if you plan to explore the country. It is home to half of the population in the metropolitan area and serves as an important financial and cultural center. Moreover, with sweeping views of the central Andes Mountains, a guaranteed good time doesn’t stop on day one.
Start exploring Barrio Bellavista, an endearing neighborhood with brilliant street art, exciting bars, and buzzing nightlife. The iconic building La Chascona should not be missed – revered author Pablo Neruda held court when not writing his inspirations in Isla Negra on the coast. Continue onto Cerro San Cristobal for a picturesque vista over Santiago before dipping into Plaza de Armas for calm moments or captivating sights of its colorful colonial architecture.
Santiago does not just offer stunning landscapes – cultural keystones like The Museum of Fine Arts or The National History Museum provide ample curiosities to keep its cities running day and night. Gran Torre Santiago is also its recognizable skyline centerpiece, providing remarkable views from each side across bustling streets and proud architecture alike. Don’t forget to hit Bellas Artes metro station either – marble walls line this renaissance-style masterpiece honoring originality at every corner.
Your exploration will soon be over with some very fond memories once you have experienced all that Santiago offers – but wait till you visit Valparaiso, the Chilean Riviera, or the Atacama Desert!
Valparaiso
Valparaiso is a stunning city in Chile located on the Pacific coast. It is home to numerous attractions, from its stunning colonial architecture to hundreds of bars, cafés, and restaurants peppered throughout the city. Valparaiso also offers walking tours along winding cobblestone streets, specialty museums, outdoor festivals, and much more.
Valparaiso is equally charming during the day when you can explore the many diverse neighborhoods tucked atop the surrounding hillsides, visit one of many galleries featuring artwork from both national and international artists, or wander along the waterfront promenade with magnificent views of the oceanscape. By night, take part in Valparaiso’s bustling nightlife scene as you dance in one of its many lively nightclubs or enjoy a glass of wine with local friends at a tiny pub tucked away in some back alley.
No matter what activities or sites you decide to explore while visiting Valparaiso, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience. From bustling plazas and open markets filled with local vendors peddling everything from food to knick-knacks to its renowned street art adorning buildings throughout town – this lively Chilean city has something for everyone.
San Pedro de Atacama
San Pedro de Atacama is a small oasis in the center of the Atacama Desert, Chile. It is one of Chile’s most popular and picturesque destinations and serves as a gateway to one of the most remote areas on earth: the Reserva Nacional Los Flamencos. The town is quite small and contains just one square mile of buildings surrounded by cacti and greenery.
San Pedro de Atacama is surrounded by stunning scenery, including stunningly high-altitude volcanoes, lush green oasis-like valleys, and some of the saltiest lakes on earth. In addition to these natural attractions, there are many other cultural attractions in San Pedro de Atacama. Located in the town center is an old Spanish church now restored for tourists, museums that examine ancient local civilizations like the Incas, Andean archaeological sites to explore, geysers, hot springs, breathtaking starry skies with some of the best night-time stargazing in South America; along with nearby lagoons full of flamingos.
Visitors to San Pedro de Atacama will find a variety of accommodation options ranging from luxury hotels to homestays; plenty of exquisite dining options featuring local cuisine; guided tours for those seeking more adventure; artisanal markets offering handcrafted souvenirs; along with organized day trips around Lake Callaiquiri and Laguna Chaxa – part of Los Flamingos National Reserve which was declared a Ramsar site due to its importance as an Arctic bird habitat thank you its saline wetlands.
The views from various points around San Pedro de Atacama are truly breathtaking, and the sunset over the mountains creates an inspiring backdrop for this awe-inspiring destination.
Patagonia
The Patagonia region of Chile stretches from Puerto Montt in the north to Cape Horn at the tip of South America. It is a challenging environment characterized by vast open spaces, glaciers, and deep fjords. This magnificent region includes some of Chile’s most spectacular national parks, including Torres del Paine and Los Glaciares–making it an unbeatable destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Stretching over 425 miles (684 km) along the Chilean coast, Patagonia boasts stunning landscapes:
- Jagged snow-capped peaks in Torres del Paine
- Breathtaking glaciers of Los Glaciares
- Lush green forests of Chiloé island
- Icy fjords punctuated by tiny fishing villages along the Chilean side of Canal Beagle
- Windswept plains on Tierra del Fuego, home to some of South America’s most iconic wildlife
Whether you’re looking for a rugged exploration or a relaxed coastal retreat, Patagonia has something for everyone!
Chile’s Patagonian wilderness offers an array of activities for travelers looking to explore the great outdoors. From glamping in luxury lodges to trekking hundreds of miles along ambitious hikes like the W Trek and O Circuit, this remote corner of South America is home to numerous trails that offer unparalleled adventures in stunning natural settings. Fishing enthusiasts can ply their craft on the blue-green waters off Chacao Channel or try fly fishing in some pristine little streams hidden deeper inside Patagonia’s vast reaches. Meanwhile, beach lovers can find white sand bays on Puerto Natales’ Ultima Esperanza peninsula or take a day trip to see whales feeding off San Rafael Lagoon’s shoreline.
What to Do
Chile has incredible natural beauty, bustling cities, adventurous activities, and rich culture. So whether you’re looking to explore the extensive nature reserves, visit the vibrant cities full of art and culture, or go on an adventure of a lifetime, Chile offers something for everyone.
In this guide, we will cover all the great things to do in Chile for an unforgettable and unique experience:
Sightseeing
Chile is home to various stunning landscapes, from the mountains and lakes in the north to the beaches and deserts in the south. Discover some of Chile’s most iconic landmarks, including San Pedro de Atacama, a colorful desert village; Valle de la Luna, an otherworldly moonscape; and Torres del Paine National Park, with its stunning glaciers.
But nature is not all there is to Chile – one of Latin America’s oldest cities also has its own unique culture. The Chilean capital city Santiago is bustling with activity. Tourist attractions include Cerro San Cristobal, an iconic hill offering fantastic views of the city; Cerro Santa Lucia, located in the heart of Santiago; Plaza de Armas, an attractive central square surrounded by historical buildings; La Moneda Palace and its two fascinating museums; and Barrio Bellavista – home to vibrant art galleries and dance clubs.
For a real taste of culture, head east along Chile’s picturesque coast to Valparaiso – a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its charming cobbled streets dotted with colorful street art murals. Then take a road trip around Carretera Austral for unforgettable views of cascading waterfalls set against glacial valleys – perfect spots for hiking or camping out under starlit skies.
Chile’s natural beauty extends beyond its borders, too: adventure seekers can cross into neighboring Argentina to experience Glacier National Park’s glacial ice formations. At the same time, beach bums can relax along Argentina’s peaceful Patagonian shoreline. Finally, don’t forget that Fitzroy Mountain Range offers some amazing photo opportunities!
Hiking
One of the most popular and rewarding activities while visiting Chile is exploring its natural wonders via hiking. Situated between two mountain ranges and straddling both the Pacific Coast and the Andes Mountain Range, Chile is home to an endless array of hikes that cater to all levels of experience.
Beginners will be rewarded with easy access and relatively simple trails within iconic national parks such as Torres del Paine or La Campana National Park. With spectacular views, these routes are also excellent for intermediate to experienced hikers who want to enjoy a more challenging itinerary tailored to their skill level.
For those looking for a challenge, Chilean hikes offer everything from:
- multiday treks through the high Andes or coastal ranges,
- summit attempts on extinct volcanoes,
- peak ascents over 5,000 m above sea level,
- traverses over multiple mountain ranges,
- or daring high-altitude scrambles.
So, whatever edition you are looking for – from strolls in nature’s beauty to awe-inspiring routes over rugged terrain – Chile has it all!
Skiing
The Chilean Andes offer some of the best skiing in South America, with excellent resorts and unforgettable terrain. From the resorts of Portillo and Corralco to the guided backcountry options in Las Lenas, Chile is a winter sports paradise. Closer to Santiago lies Valle Nevado, with great lifts connecting El Colorado and La Parva – an area forming part of the famous ‘Three Valleys’ or ‘Triangulo de las bergas’.
Whether you’re an amateur looking for a beginner mountain or a professional seeking out top-notch runs, Chile will satisfy your needs. The slopes offer breathtaking views of the Andean peaks and surrounding areas and plenty of sunshine throughout the day. Rentals are available at certain resorts, and transport can be arranged from nearby airports so you can ski quickly after landing in Chile.
Skiing in Chile is expensive by South American standards but still cheaper than many European resorts – helping make it one of the best places to explore on skis or snowboards today. With accessible weather predictions, impressive terrain parks, reliable equipment hire services, and everyday grooming operations, skiing in Chile should be on everyone’s bucket lists for experienced skiers and riders alike!
Where to Stay
Chile is an amazing country to explore, with a wide range of accommodation options. Whether you’re looking for a budget hostel, a luxury hotel, or something in between, there’s an option that is perfect for you. From beachfront bungalows to city-center apartments, here’s a look at some of the best places to stay in Chile:
Hotels
When planning a trip to Chile, there is no shortage of options regarding where to stay. Chile has accommodations for every traveler, from luxury resorts and five-star beachfront hotels to cozy hostels and budget-friendly lodges.
For the more budget-conscious travelers, there is the option of staying in hostels or bed and breakfasts (B&Bs). Hostels are great for those looking for a more communal atmosphere with shared bathrooms, kitchens, and common areas. On the flip side, B&Bs provide more privacy with dedicated rooms and bathrooms while often still offering community gathering areas or shared terraces.
Suppose you’re looking for a bit more luxury during your stay. In that case, there are countless five-star hotels located all across Chile that offer high-end amenities such as rooftop pools and spas, upscale restaurants inside the hotel, 24/7 fitness centers, on-site concierge services, private balconies with breathtaking views of the Chilean landscape – not to mention top-notch service and hospitality.
Whether you’re an adventurous soul in search of some budget-friendly digs or dreaming of pampering yourself in luxury during your next trip – Chile has the perfect accommodation option just waiting for you!
Hostels
Hostels are the perfect choice for accommodation for budget travelers and provide comfortable, convenient, and cheap lodging. Chile offers fun and friendly hostels that cater to almost every traveler’s needs. Some hostels offer complimentary breakfast, fully-equipped kitchens, shared bathrooms, and private rooms with en-suite facilities. Many provide additional services such as laundry, bike rentals, and local city tours to provide added convenience to travelers.
Chile also provides a vast array of unique lodging experiences that vary from mountain hut, or “refugio” stays in Patagonia to luxurious eco-lodges in Torres del Paine National Park. All hostels will require entrance fees or deposits, so read all policies before staying at one. Hostel prices vary according to location, services offered, size of the room, and overall atmosphere, so make sure to compare your options before making a final decision.
Hostel locations can also vary greatly regarding cleanliness and safety, so it is important to research beforehand. It is highly recommended that travelers read online reviews regarding a hostel before booking to ensure they receive the best value for their money.
Camping
Camping is an increasingly popular way to explore Chile’s rugged landscape and stunning nature spots. There are plenty of official camping areas dotted throughout the country and a range of ‘Bring Your Own’ sites where travelers can pitch up their tents and absorb the great outdoors.
If you plan to camp in Chile, check weather forecasts before you set off, as sloping ground or low-lying land could result in water pooling during rainstorms. Choose your campsite carefully so you have some shelter if there’s a downpour – this will also reduce the risk of flooding or mudslides occurring while you are there. Here are some common locations where camping is available:
- National Parks – Chile boasts over a dozen parks with lush forests, snow-capped volcanoes, and other incredible features. Many offer camping options enabling visitors to get right up close to nature. Some parks even have information centers for inquiries about tent rental (if required) or maps for trekking routes and trails in the area of your park destination.
- Ski Resorts – With an abundance of ski resorts in Chile offering summer camping choices, it is easy to find one that matches your needs and tastes. Summer fun includes sightseeing from ski lifts, mountain biking/walking tours, and horseback riding trips through alpine meadows – perfect for staying active during vacation! Depending on the season you visit, tourist amenities such as sports shops for renting snow gear may be available too – just another way to keep busy when visiting this exciting destination!
- Public Campgrounds – Some public campgrounds exist throughout Chile that provides basic facilities such as bathrooms (often shared), drinking water taps, and cooking huts/barbecue areas with grills but no electricity or hot showers*. Sites usually have a fee associated, but these fees vary widely based on locality plus tourist demand in each region – inquire locally for definitive prices/accommodations lists before booking any trips/itineraries, etc. Check out websites like Campeais, which offer comprehensive listings when searching for public campgrounds!
Food and Drink
Chile is rich in culture, natural beauty, and of course, food and drink. Chilean cuisine is a delicious blend of the region’s native, Spanish, and German influences.
From traditional dishes like empanadas and pastel de choclo to the popular street food snack sopaipillas, there are plenty of tasty dishes to try out while exploring the country.
This section will delve into Chile’s diverse and flavorful food and drink options.
Local Cuisine
Chile is a country of immense geographical range, and with that comes remarkable variety in its cuisine. From the far north, which features a mild and smoky style of cooking referred to as nortinas, to the Patagonian lamb dishes of the south, you’re sure to find something to tantalize your taste buds while in Chile.
One dish you should try when visiting Chile is the national dish, pastel de choclo. This savory pie combines ground beef and chicken with corn, olives, and raisins before being topped with choclo (a sweet corn native to South America). It tastes best when paired with one of Chilean’s many excellent wines.
Seafood is also popular throughout Chile thanks to its extensive coastline. Merluza con papas fritas – Spanish for “hake with french fries” – is a common item on menus across the country. Locals also enjoy curing their fish with sauco (elderberry) or acidifying it with limo de mar (seaweed) for a special flavor treat.
The most common local beverages are mote con huesillos and terremoto. The former is made from dried husked wheat boiled in water until it breaks down into a soft porridge flavored with sugar, cinnamon, and cloves; At the same time, terremoto translates literally as “earthquake” – so-named because of its potency! Made from fermented peach juice mixed with champagne or wine – this heady concoction usually strikes fear into the hearts of even experienced drinkers!
Restaurants
Chile is a food-lovers paradise, with a wide range of great restaurants and eateries serving classic Chilean cuisine or international delicacies. From the capital city of Santiago to the small coastal towns, you can find a delicious taste of Chile’s culture, ubiquitous seafood specialties, and fine dining.
In Santiago, there is something for every budget and culinary preference. Many restaurants serve typical Chilean dishes such as empanadas (stuffed pastries), chupe de locos (shellfish stew), cazuela (meat stew), and pastel de choclo (corn-based pie). There are plenty of Italian, French, German, Indian, and other international cuisines to choose from too.
In smaller coastal cities and towns, you can visit family-run restaurants offering ceviche and fresh seafood from nearby waters, such as merluza con puré (hake with mashed potatoes) or picorocos rellenos (stuffed mussels). Traditional Chilean fare is also served on special occasions – ask your local tour guide which eateries serve roast lamb or pork in these locales.
If all this sounds like too much work, don’t worry – Chilean wine is among some of the best in South America. Moreover, you can be sure that each bottle will pair perfectly with your meal! From large cities to small mountain villages – wherever you go in Chile – gastronomic delights are guaranteed!
Bars and Nightlife
Chile offers plenty of opportunities to unwind and have a great night out. Major cities like Santiago, Valparaíso, and Vina del Mar feature a variety of bars and pubs catering to travelers.
Santiago offers lively outdoor terraces for enjoying a pisco sour or craft beer. There are also upscale lounges, hole-in-the-wall taverns, speakeasies, and vibrant nightclubs – there’s something here for every visitor!
Valparaíso is well known for offering a range of entertainment, from jazz clubs to cantinas serving locally produced craft beer and traditional Chilean wines. In addition, most establishments offer free entry during the evening (up until about 10 PM), making it easy to enjoy several venues in one night.
The resort destination of Vina del Mar is home to an upbeat evening scene with many restaurants offering opportunities for alfresco dining after dark. Sample some delicious local seafood while listening to live music, then stay late into the night in one of the city’s many bars featuring DJs and regular events.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable nightlife experience, check out Santiago’s trendy Bellavista neighborhood, which features boutique bars and classic pubs playing up-tempo Chilean music until late into the night!
Local Tips
Chile is a nation of captivating landscapes, warm culture, and vibrant customs. With more than 4,000 miles of coastline and stunning mountain ranges, this South American paradise has a lot to explore.
Traveling to Chile can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to learn about local tips and customs. So here we’ll discuss useful tips to help you have a great time in Chile:
Language
There is no official language in Chile, but Spanish is the dominant language. Approximately 90% of the population speaks and understands Spanish. Some native Chilean tribes have unique languages, but these are not widespread outside small, isolated communities. English is not widely spoken in Chile, so learning a few basic phrases is important to ensure successful communication in your travels.
The Spanish spoken in Chile differs slightly from other Spanish-speaking countries because regions have their particular colloquial forms of the language. In addition, Chilean Spanish also called “Rioplatense,” has influences from Italian and French, creating some peculiarities compared to nearby countries like Argentina or Peru. Chilean Spanish also has a lot of local vocabulary, making it hard for foreigners to understand.
In Santiago, most people are bilingual, speaking both English and Spanish, but this depends on one’s social stratum and education level. However, it does not hurt to try speaking English because you never know who you might run into that can converse with you without issue! To avoid misunderstandings and ensure an enjoyable travel experience through Chile, we suggest learning basic conversational skills for the primary language spoken within cities or regions you plan to visit.
Money
When traveling to Chile, it is important to know what type of money and currency is accepted in the country. The Chilean Peso (CLP) is the local currency and the only form of money that can be used for transactions in Chile. However, exchange rates for foreign currencies vary daily, so it is best to research the current exchange rate before traveling.
Credit cards are also accepted at most shops and restaurants in Chile, but please note that businesses may not accept all types of cards, so it is best to check with your credit card provider before your trip. Other payment methods include:
- Traveler’s checks
- Debit cards
- Wire transfers
Currency exchange offices can be found throughout Chile at airports, hotels, and banks. Check for applicable fees before exchanging any money, as these fees vary by provider. ATMs are also available in many cities within the country, but again, check with your financial institutions on applicable fees before using them while in Chile.
Etiquette
When traveling in Chile, it’s important to remember that the culture has its unique etiquette and customs that you should be aware of before interacting with locals. To help ensure your travels through Chile are positive, here is a comprehensive guide to understanding how to act and behave when meeting others in the country.
Learning at least a few words in Spanish before traveling in Chile is essential, as most people do not speak English. In addition, greeting someone warmly with a friendly “hola” or “buenos días” will make a real impression on them and make them much more likely to engage with you in conversation and help you out when needed. Knowing which hand is appropriate for shaking hands is also crucial – the right instead of the left, for example – as this could be seen as disrespectful if not done correctly.
Invitations, even from strangers, are typically accepted without hesitation, as it would be considered rude not to accept. When invited into someone else’s home, a small gift such as flowers or chocolates can often be an appropriate way of showing appreciation while also introducing oneself. It’s also important to understand that punctuality is highly valued throughout the country. If possible, try to arrive at social gatherings or meetings on time or within reasonable delay if applicable.
Chilean hospitality should always be respected in return by preserving certain norms such as:
- Dressing conservatively while out and about in public places.
- Speaking quietly within indoor environments such as restaurants and cafes.
- Thanking folk politely when they offer assistance or accommodation where available.
- Being sensitive to topics such as religion or politics could offend when discussed openly.