Explore Chile's Diverse Landscapes

From the Atacama Desert to Patagonian glaciers and vibrant coastal cities - discover when and how to visit this remarkable country safely

A river valley and clouds around mountains in the scenic landscape of Ala-Archa National park

Chile's Natural Wonders Await

Experience dramatic mountains, pristine coastlines, and unique ecosystems from desert to ice

Best Time for a Visit

When to experience Chile's diverse climates and spectacular regions

💰 Cheapest Time to Visit

May-Sept Low season except for ski resorts. Explore central and northern regions with fewer crowds.
Mar-May, Sept-Nov Shoulder Seasons: Moderate prices with favorable weather.

🌞 Best Weather for Sightseeing

Weather varies significantly by region:

Nov-Mar Patagonia (South): Ideal weather for Torres del Paine and glaciers
Spring/Autumn Santiago & Central Valleys: Best for wine regions and city exploration
Spring/Autumn Atacama Desert (North): Comfortable temperatures for stargazing
Oct-Mar Easter Island: Warm weather for beach and moai exploration

🎭 Special Festivals and Events

Sept 18-19 Fiestas Patrias - Nationwide independence celebrations
February Tapati Festival - Rapa Nui cultural showcase on Easter Island
Mar-Apr Vendimia - Wine harvest festivals in central valleys
January Carnaval Andino - Colorful Andean festival in Arica
Dec 25 & Jan 1 Christmas and New Year's - Celebrations in Valparaíso
Wachusett Mountain and reservoir from Tower Hill

Chile's spectacular mountain landscapes and pristine natural reserves offer unforgettable adventures throughout the seasons.

Essential Travel Tips

Important information for a safe and enjoyable visit to Chile

💉 Health Precautions

Ensure you're up-to-date with routine vaccines. Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines are recommended for rural visits. Tap water is safe in cities but use bottled water in rural areas.

⚠️ Safety and Security

Be aware of pickpocketing in tourist areas. Use hotel safes for valuables.
Familiarize yourself with procedures for natural disasters including earthquakes.

⚖️ Local Laws and Customs

Dress modestly at religious sites.
Avoid involvement with drugs due to strict laws.

💳 Currency and Expenses

Chilean Peso (CLP) is the local currency. Credit cards are accepted in cities.
Tip about 10% in restaurants.

🗣️ Language and Communication

Spanish is the official language, though English is common in tourist areas.
Wi-Fi is widely available in cities and tourist areas.

🌿 Environmental Considerations

Preserve the natural beauty by following responsible wildlife viewing guidelines and being environmentally conscious.

🚨 Emergency Numbers

Know the local emergency numbers:

Ambulance: 131
Fire Department: 132
Police: 133
Check travel advisories for the latest information.

Ready for Your Chilean Adventure? By being mindful of these tips and planning according to the seasons, your trip to Chile can be both memorable and safe. Have an amazing journey exploring from the driest desert to the southernmost glaciers!

Join the Journey

Discover Chile's stunning landscapes from the Atacama Desert to Patagonia with our expertly crafted itineraries

Lago Pehoe with Cuernos del Paine Mountain at Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Experience the majestic beauty of Lago Pehoe and the iconic Cuernos del Paine at Torres del Paine National Park

Explore Chile in One Week

Discover Chile's diverse landscapes in just a week—from the vibrant capital to the mystical Atacama Desert and the breathtaking Torres del Paine in Patagonia.

1-2 Santiago

  • Activities: Explore the historic heart of Santiago including Plaza de Armas and Metropolitan Cathedral. Immerse in the nightlife at Barrio Lastarria.
  • Transport: Utilize the efficient metro system or ride-sharing apps like Uber for easy navigation.

3-4 Atacama Desert

  • Activities: Journey from Santiago to San Pedro de Atacama and witness the marvelous Valle de la Luna and El Tatio Geysers.
  • Transport: Direct flights and shuttle services facilitate travel between Calama and San Pedro de Atacama.

5-7 Torres del Paine

  • Activities: Engage in the famous W Trek or explore the glaciers and lakes on organized tours.
  • Transport: Flights to Punta Arenas followed by bus rides to Puerto Natales and the national park.

Travel Tips

Advance Booking: Book flights and tours in advance for best rates.

Layer Up: Dress in layers for unpredictable Patagonian weather.

Stay Hydrated: Keep hydrated in the dry Atacama climate.

This itinerary offers an unparalleled glimpse into Chile's incredible diversity. 🇨🇱🏔️

Chile in Two Weeks

Exploring Chile in two weeks allows for an immersive experience into its diverse landscapes, from the arid deserts in the north to the glacial fields in the south.

1 Week 1: Santiago, Valparaíso & Atacama Desert

Day 1-2: Santiago
  • Activities: Explore Santiago's historic center, visit La Moneda Palace, Plaza de Armas, and climb Cerro San Cristóbal for panoramic views.
  • Transport: Santiago's public transit includes metro and buses. Taxis and Uber widely available.
Day 3-4: Valparaíso
  • Activities: Travel to Valparaíso, known for colorful hillsides and street art. Visit La Sebastiana (Pablo Neruda's house), ride historic funiculars.
  • Transport: Buses from Santiago run frequently (about 1.5 hours). Much of city explored on foot.
Day 5-7: Atacama Desert
  • Activities: Fly to Calama and transfer to San Pedro. Visit Valle de la Luna, Tatio Geysers, and explore high-altitude lagoons.
  • Transport: Direct flights from Santiago to Calama (2 hours). Shuttle to San Pedro (1.5 hours).

2 Week 2: Patagonia & Lake District

Day 8-10: Torres del Paine
  • Activities: Travel to Puerto Natales. Spend full day exploring Torres del Paine National Park, including visit to Grey Glacier.
  • Transport: Fly to Punta Arenas from Calama. Bus from Punta Arenas to Puerto Natales (3 hours).
Day 11-12: Puerto Varas
  • Activities: Fly to Puerto Montt and transfer to Puerto Varas. Explore Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, visit Petrohué Waterfalls.
  • Transport: Flights from Punta Arenas to Puerto Montt. Puerto Varas is 30-minute drive from airport.
Day 13-14: Chiloé Island
  • Activities: Day trip to Chiloé Island to explore palafitos (stilt houses), visit wooden churches (UNESCO Sites), explore Chiloé National Park.
  • Transport: Buses from Puerto Varas to ferry terminal at Pargua (1 hour). Ferry to Chiloé (30 minutes).

Travel Tips

Currency: Chilean Peso (CLP). ATMs widely available in cities, carry cash in remote areas.
Language: Spanish is official language. English widely understood in tourist areas.
Safety: Chile is generally safe, but always take standard precautions in cities.
Packing: Weather varies greatly from desert to Patagonia. Pack layers and prepare for rain in south.

Experience Chile's stunning diversity from cultural cities to breathtaking Patagonian landscapes. 🏔️✨

Chile in Three Weeks

A three-week journey through Chile allows for comprehensive exploration from the driest desert in the world to icy fjords, with vibrant cities, lush vineyards, and ancient forests.

1 Week 1: Santiago, Valparaíso & Atacama

Day 1-3: Santiago
  • Activities: Explore historic center including Plaza de Armas and La Moneda Palace. Visit Cerro San Cristóbal for panoramic views and Museum of Memory.
  • Transport: Airport well-connected to city by bus, transfer service, and taxi. Use metro and buses to get around.
Day 4-5: Valparaíso
  • Activities: Wander through colorful hills, ride historic ascensores (funiculars), and visit La Sebastiana. Explore street art and coastal views.
  • Transport: Take bus from Santiago to Valparaíso (1.5 hours). City best explored on foot.
Day 6-7: Atacama Desert
  • Activities: Fly to Calama and transfer to San Pedro. Visit Valle de la Luna, Tatio Geysers, float in Cejar Lagoon. Explore Atacama's starry skies.
  • Transport: Flights from Santiago to Calama (2 hours). Transfers from Calama to San Pedro by shuttle or taxi.

2 Week 2: Patagonia - Punta Arenas, Puerto Natales & Torres del Paine

Day 8-10: Punta Arenas
  • Activities: Visit Nao Victoria Museum and Maggiorino Borgatello Museum. Day trip to Isla Magdalena to see penguin colony (seasonal).
  • Transport: Fly from Calama to Punta Arenas (connection in Santiago, about 6 hours total).
Day 11-13: Torres del Paine
  • Activities: Explore Puerto Natales. Spend next two days touring Torres del Paine with hiking, boat tours to see glaciers, and wildlife watching.
  • Transport: Bus from Punta Arenas to Puerto Natales (3 hours). Tours to park arranged in Puerto Natales.
Day 14-16: Lake District
  • Activities: Visit Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, see Osorno Volcano, explore Petrohué Waterfalls. Day trip to thermal springs at Termas de Puyehue.
  • Transport: Fly from Punta Arenas to Puerto Montt. Drive or bus to Puerto Varas (30 minutes).

3 Week 3: Chiloé Island & Return to Santiago

Day 17-19: Chiloé Island
  • Activities: Explore wooden churches of Chiloé (UNESCO Sites), visit palafitos in Castro, and hike in Chiloé National Park. Enjoy seafood and unique Chilote cuisine.
  • Transport: Drive or bus from Puerto Varas to ferry terminal at Pargua (1 hour), then short ferry ride to Chiloé.
Day 20-21: Return to Santiago
  • Activities: Return to Santiago for last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Explore any neighborhoods or museums you may have missed.
  • Transport: Fly from Puerto Montt to Santiago (1.5 hours). Use metro, taxis, and rideshare for final explorations.

Travel Tips

Altitude: Be mindful of altitude sickness in Atacama Desert and prepare accordingly.
Weather: Pack for varied climates. Experience everything from desert heat to Patagonian winds and rain.
Safety: Chile is generally safe, but exercise common travel precautions in urban areas.
Language: Spanish is official. English spoken in tourist areas, but basic Spanish enhances experience.

This three-week itinerary offers a deep dive into Chile's spectacular natural beauty and rich cultural landscapes. 🇨🇱🌎

Ready for Your Chilean Adventure?

From the Atacama Desert to Patagonian glaciers - Chile awaits your discovery!

12-Day Itinerary

Your Travel Companion for Chile's Hidden Paths

Exploring Chile through its hidden gems offers a unique journey into the heart of its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, away from the crowded tourist paths.

1-2

Valdivia

Start your adventure in Valdivia, a city in Southern Chile known for its strong German heritage, beautiful rivers, and vibrant cultural scene.

Activities: Explore the riverside promenade, visit the Mercado Fluvial to try local seafood, and take a boat tour to the nearby Spanish forts of Corral. Don't miss the Kunstmann Brewery for a taste of local German-inspired beer.

3-4

Chiloé Island

Head to Chiloé Island, famous for its wooden churches (UNESCO World Heritage Sites), mystical folklore, and unique architecture.

Activities: Visit the colorful palafitos (stilt houses) in Castro, explore the wooden churches around the island, and hike in Chiloé National Park to appreciate the island's natural beauty. Try curanto, a traditional Chiloé dish.

5-6

Cochamó Valley

Travel to Cochamó Valley, often referred to as the "Yosemite of Chile", known for its stunning granite domes and pristine rivers.

Activities: Prepare for a multi-day trek or a day hike in the valley, enjoying the crystal-clear rivers, dense forests, and the opportunity for rock climbing. This area is remote and preserved, with minimal infrastructure.

7-8

Pucón and Villarrica Volcano

Venture to Pucón, a small town in Chile's Lake District, serving as a gateway to outdoor adventures and the Villarrica Volcano.

Activities: Hike up the Villarrica Volcano for breathtaking views, relax in the natural hot springs, and explore the Huerquehue National Park for its beautiful lakes and Araucaria forests.

9-10

Valle del Elqui

Head to Valle del Elqui, nestled between the Andes, known for its clear skies, Pisco production, and as a center for astronomy.

Activities: Visit a Pisco distillery to learn about the production of Chile's national spirit, enjoy stargazing at one of the observatories, and relax in the tranquil valley known for its positive energy.

11-12

Punta de Choros and Isla Damas

Conclude your journey in Punta de Choros, a small coastal village offering access to Isla Damas, part of the Humboldt Penguin National Reserve.

Activities: Take a boat tour to Isla Damas to see its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and wildlife, including penguins, dolphins, and sea lions. Enjoy the seafood in Punta de Choros and the serene beauty of this less-visited area.

Travel Tips

Transportation

Renting a car is recommended to explore these off-the-beaten-path destinations at your own pace. Some areas like Cochamó Valley may require hiking to fully explore.

Accommodations

Opt for local guesthouses, eco-lodges, or camping to experience authentic Chilean hospitality and support local communities.

Seasonal Considerations

The best time to visit most of these places is during the Chilean summer (December to March) when the weather is warmer and more activities are available. However, Valle del Elqui offers excellent stargazing year-round.

Culinary Exploration

Chilean cuisine is diverse and rich. Be sure to try local specialties such as pastel de choclo, empanadas, and seafood dishes along the coast. Each region offers its unique flavors and ingredients.

This 12-day itinerary invites you to discover Chile's hidden treasures, ensuring a journey filled with natural beauty, cultural insights, and unforgettable experiences, away from the usual tourist trails. ✨

Discover Chile

Your Ultimate Chilean Adventure

From the driest desert on Earth and towering Andean peaks to pristine Patagonian wilderness and mysterious Easter Island - explore the incredible length and diversity of this remarkable South American nation

Kyrgyzstan nature landscape. Beautiful green alpine meadows with horses and river against Tien-Shan mountains in Kyrgyzstan

🇨🇱 Chile's stunning Andean landscapes are just the beginning! From the otherworldly Atacama Desert and majestic Torres del Paine to colorful Valparaíso and world-class wine valleys - discover 20 extraordinary destinations that showcase Chile's unparalleled natural beauty spanning over 4,000 kilometers.

Santiago & Central Valley

 2-3 days

Activities: Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Bellavista and Lastarria, visit the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino, and take a day trip to the nearby Andean ski resorts or the vineyards of the Central Valley.

Accommodation: Boutique hotels in Providencia, luxury accommodations in Las Condes, and budget hostels in the city center.

Specialties: Empanadas, pastel de choclo (corn pie), and Chilean wine.

Valparaíso

1-2 days

Activities: Wander through the colorful hills, ride the historic funiculars, visit poet Pablo Neruda's house, and enjoy the street art.

Accommodation: Artistic boutique hotels, cozy B&Bs, and hostels with harbor views.

Specialties: Fresh seafood, chorrillana (a heap of fries topped with meat, onions, and eggs), and alfajores.

Atacama Desert

3-4 days

Activities: Visit the Valley of the Moon, take a dip in the Cejar Lagoon, explore the El Tatio Geysers at sunrise, and stargaze under one of the clearest skies in the world.

Accommodation: Desert lodges, eco-friendly hotels, and hostels in San Pedro de Atacama.

Specialties: Llama meat, quinoa dishes, and pisco sour made with local pisco.

Torres del Paine

4-5 days

Activities: Trek the W Circuit or the O Circuit, witness the granite peaks of the Torres del Paine, and spot wildlife like guanacos and condors.

Accommodation: Luxury eco-lodges, refugios for trekkers, and campsites within the park.

Specialties: Patagonian lamb, calafate berries, and Chilean craft beers.

Patagonian Fjords

4-7 days

Activities: Cruising through fjords, visiting glaciers, and spotting marine wildlife.

Accommodation: Accommodations are on the cruise ships.

Specialties: Fresh seafood, especially king crab.

Chiloé Island

2-3 days

Activities: Explore the unique wooden churches (a UNESCO World Heritage site), visit the palafitos (stilt houses) in Castro, and take a boat trip to see penguins at Puñihuil.

Accommodation: Charming lodges, seaside cottages, and guesthouses.

Specialties: Curanto (a traditional seafood, meat, and vegetable dish cooked in a hole in the ground), potato bread, and oysters.

Easter Island

3-5 days

Activities: See the moai statues at Ahu Tongariki, hike the Rano Kau volcano, explore the Rano Raraku quarry, and enjoy the beautiful beaches like Anakena.

Accommodation: Eco-friendly lodges, guesthouses, and a few luxury hotels.

Specialties: Tuna ceviche, po'e (banana and pumpkin pudding), and seafood.

Puerto Varas & Lakes

3-4 days

Activities: Visit the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, see the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes, and enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking and fishing in the lakes.

Accommodation: Lakeside resorts, cozy cabins, and family-run guesthouses.

Specialties: Kuchen (German-style cake), smoked salmon, and local craft beers.

Wine Country

2-3 days

Activities: Tour famous vineyards, enjoy wine tastings, and explore the charming towns of the wine region.

Accommodation: Vineyard hotels, boutique inns, and rural lodges.

Specialties: World-class Chilean wines and gourmet experiences.

Pucón

3-4 days

Activities: Climb the Villarrica Volcano, relax in the thermal hot springs, and explore the Huerquehue National Park.

Accommodation: Mountain lodges, lakefront hotels, and hostels for backpackers.

Specialties: Wild boar, trout, and berries.

Elqui Valley

2-3 days

Activities: Tour the pisco distilleries, visit the observatories for stargazing, and explore the small towns like Vicuña and Pisco Elqui.

Accommodation: Boutique hotels, eco-lodges, and cozy cabins among the vineyards.

Specialties: Pisco, goat cheese, and papayas.

Carretera Austral

7-10 days

Activities: Drive the scenic route through Patagonia, visit the Marble Caves, trek in the Cerro Castillo National Reserve, and explore the Queulat National Park.

Accommodation: Campsites, rustic lodges, and guesthouses along the route.

Specialties: Lamb asado, wild berries, and artisanal cheeses.

Santiago Old Town

1 day

Activities: Visit La Moneda Palace, stroll through Plaza de Armas, enjoy the downtown markets, and marvel at the Metropolitan Cathedral.

Accommodation: Central budget hotels and backpacker hostels.

Specialties: Sopaipillas, Mote con Huesillo, and traditional Chilean coffee corners.

Viña del Mar

1-2 days

Activities: Relax on the sandy beaches, visit the iconic Flower Clock, explore the Quinta Vergara Park, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

Accommodation: Beachfront hotels, boutique inns, and modern resorts.

Specialties: Fresh ceviche, pastel de jaiba (crab pie), and local ice creams.

La Serena

2-3 days

Activities: Explore the historic city center with its colonial architecture, relax on the long beaches of Bahía La Serena, visit the nearby Isla Damas to see Humboldt penguins, and enjoy the Japanese garden.

Accommodation: Beachfront resorts, boutique hotels in the historic center, and family-run guesthouses.

Specialties: Fresh seafood, papaya-based desserts, and local craft beers.

Chiloé Archipelago

3-4 days

Activities: Discover the mythology and legends of Chiloé, visit the Muelle de las Almas (Dock of Souls), explore the National Park Chiloé, and experience the rural traditions in small fishing villages.

Accommodation: Traditional palafitos (houses on stilts), rural homestays, and eco-lodges.

Specialties: Milcao (potato bread), chapaleles (potato dumplings), and local apple cider.

Cajón del Maipo

1-2 days

Activities: Hike to the El Morado glacier, enjoy hot springs at Baños Morales, go white water rafting on the Maipo River, and try rock climbing or horseback riding in the Andean foothills.

Accommodation: Mountain cabins, camping sites, and rustic lodges.

Specialties: Asado al palo (spit-roasted meat), homemade bread, and terremoto cocktails.

Isla Magdalena

Day trip

Activities: Take a boat tour from Punta Arenas to observe the largest penguin colony in southern Chile, with over 120,000 Magellanic penguins, walk designated paths among the penguins, and visit the historic lighthouse.

Accommodation: Stay in Punta Arenas, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels.

Specialties: Centolla (king crab), cordero magallánico (Patagonian lamb), and calafate berry desserts.

Lauca National Park

2-3 days

Activities: Explore this high-altitude biosphere reserve near the Bolivian border, observe native wildlife like vicuñas and flamingos, visit Lake Chungará with views of the Parinacota volcano, and discover ancient Aymara villages.

Accommodation: Basic lodging in Putre, the gateway town to the park, or camping within designated areas.

Specialties: Andean cuisine including quinoa dishes, alpaca meat, and coca tea to help with altitude adjustment.

Robinson Crusoe Island

3-4 days

Activities: Visit this remote island that inspired Daniel Defoe's novel, hike through endemic forests, snorkel or dive in pristine waters with unique marine species, and learn about the island's fascinating history of pirates and castaways.

Accommodation: Small family-run lodges and guesthouses in the village of San Juan Bautista.

Specialties: Lobster and other fresh seafood, endemic fruits, and traditional Chilean dishes with island variations.

Budget Guide

Discover Chile with the Perfect Budget Plan

Plan your Chile adventure with confidence - from backpacker to luxury traveler

Budget Travel

Daily Budget
€30 - €75

Accommodation: Hostels, budget hotels

€15 - €30 per night

Food: Local eateries, street food

€5 - €15 per day

Transportation: Public buses, metro

€5 - €10 per day

Activities: Free walking tours, budget-friendly attractions

€5 - €20 per day

Mid-Range Travel

Daily Budget
€120 - €230

Accommodation: 3-star hotels, comfortable B&Bs

€40 - €80 per night

Food: Mid-range restaurants, occasional dining out

€20 - €40 per day

Transportation: Car rental, occasional taxis

€30 - €50 per day

Activities: Paid tours, entry fees for attractions

€30 - €60 per day

Luxury Travel

Daily Budget
€280 - €620+

Accommodation: 4-5 star hotels, luxury resorts

€100 - €250+ per night

Food: Fine dining, high-end restaurants

€50 - €100 per day

Transportation: Luxury car rental, private drivers

€60 - €120 per day

Activities: Private tours, exclusive experiences

€70 - €150+ per day

Couple friends high five hands on mountain top man and woman backpackers travel together hiking in Norway, active vacations outdoor family adventure lifestyle sustainable tourism, teamwork concept
Starting from
€30/day
Budget Friendly