Things to do in Chile
Things to do in Chile There are numerous things to do in Chile, from visiting the capital of Santiago to marvelling at
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Set between the majestic Andes and the rugged Pacific coast, Chile stretches from the desolate Atacama desert in the north to granite peaks, glacier fields and untamed wilderness of Patagonia in the south. In between these striking extremes, the country offers snow-capped volcanoes, crystal-clear lakes, winding fjords, ancient forests and verdant valleys dotted with vineyards.
As well as this pristine and spectacular scenery, visitors can encounter indigenous communities, bustling city culture, friendly hosts and delicious fresh seafood. The remote Easter Island, in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, bears witness to a unique and mysterious Rapa Nui legacy.
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Officially part of Chile, the mysterious and remote Easter Island lies in the middle of the South Pacific, a 5-hour flight from the mainland. This small patch of grass-covered volcanic rock is an extraordinary open-air museum of hundreds of moai (gigantic stone statues) scattered throughout the island. Explore Hanga Roa and dip into the Polynesian culture of the island.
The northern Lake District is covered in araucaria and lenga forests, and is home to the indigenous Mapuche people. The small town of Pucon and the nearby lake are a good base for exploring the surrounding national parks, including the volcanic caves on the slopes of the active Villarrica volcano, ancient forests, crystal-clear waterfalls and numerous hot springs. It possible to arrange a visit to a native community in the area.
Set between the snow-capped Andes and the coast, the fertile valleys around Santiago are home to world-famous wineries, country traditions and warm hospitality. Exclusive winery estates, some among the oldest in Chile, offer relaxing stays in their colonial haciendas or boutique lodges as well as the opportunity to sample some of the region’s finest wines.
Coastal Arica, Chile’s northernmost city, is a gateway to the archaeological and natural wonders to be discovered inland, high into the Andes. The region is dotted with picturesque adobe villages and remains of pre-Columbian cultures, including mysterious rock carvings and geoglyphs. On the border with Bolivia lies the desolate Lauca National Park, with snowcapped volcanoes overlooking the emerald green Lake Chungara and Cotacotani lagoon. Flamingoes, rheas and guanacos can be spotted roaming the altiplano.
Northern Chile is renowned for its incredibly clear skies and unpolluted atmosphere, attracting astronomers from all over the world. Verdant valleys lie between the coastal town of La Serena and the Andes, and contrast with the arid brown of the mountains. Astronomical observatories like Mamalluca and La Stela are open for visitors to gaze at the wonders of the skies.
Things to do in Chile There are numerous things to do in Chile, from visiting the capital of Santiago to marvelling at
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Find out more about what you can expect from travelling in South America – from internal flights to accommodation standards and local transport.
Learn more about the airlines we use to fly to South America, chosen for reliability and good service; as well as any available upgrade facilities.
Before travelling to South America, please read more about the entry requirements for each country, as well as any general health advice.
Discover the temperatures and rainfall you can expect when visiting the main areas of Chile, along with the best time to travel.
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