Best vacation in chile
Chile is an amazing place. It’s got some the most beautiful nature in the world, most amazing beaches, wonderful sights and great hotels. Plus, if you’re into skiing, it has the best slopes in South America. It’s got a lot to offer! If you are planning a trip to Chile, here are some of the best places to visit during your vacation.
If you need to relax and want a relaxing holiday in South America with great weather and lots of adventures, then Chile is the perfect destination. It’s a very safe country with a stable democracy that has been growing rapidly over recent years and there are some of the best tourist attractions in all of South America. If you have read this far I think it’s safe to assume you’re thinking about travelling to Chile – so let’s take a look at why you should book your trip now.
It’s official. I’m moving to Chile! If you’ve been reading my blog over the past few years, you are likely well aware of my love for this country. From its friendly people, pristine beauty, and tasty food to its low cost of living, abundant sunshine, and relaxed culture — Chile has it all (back me up here).
Chile is a country with rich history and culture, and the best vacation in Chile will be one that allows you to immerse yourself in these elements of the country.
If you are looking for adventure, the Atacama Desert is an excellent choice. It’s one of the driest places on Earth, and it’s home to some unique species of animals and plants. You can also visit some ancient archaeological sites here if you want a bit more historical context.
If you’re looking for something more relaxing and scenic, then a trip along Chile’s coast is just what you need. There are many beautiful beaches where you can relax with your family or friends while enjoying the sights and sounds of nature around you.
Chile is an incredible country. You may know it for its wine, but there’s so much more to see and do.
We’ve put together a list of some of the best vacations in Chile so you can make the most out of your time there.
Check out our guide below:
Torres del Paine National Park
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Courtesy of Yuen Man Cheung / Alamy Stock Photo
The towering peaks of the Torres are the perfect reward after a tough hike. With jade-green glacial waters, you really can’t make these majestic scenes up. While photos make this natural masterpiece look incredible, you really have to experience its sheer size for yourself.
San Pedro de Atacama
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With views reminiscent of a scene out of a sci-fi film, this beautiful landscape can be found in the north of Chile. It’s a perfect holiday destination – where you can let the warmth of the thermal baths soothe you, sit in awe of the gushing geysers and watch as some of the world’s most colorful sunsets develop into a celestial sky.
Santiago
Architectural Landmark
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Courtesy of Lucas Inacio / Alamy Stock Photo
The Chile capital, Santiago, sits between the Andes and the Pacific, offering weekends away in the mountains – or by the coast. The city has a rather dark history from the time of the Pinochet dictatorship and now prefers to express itself through the city’s street art, tradition and culture. Time your visit to coincide with the Fiestas Patriascelebrations and get in the Chilean spirit.
Valparaíso
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A stomping ground for the famous poet, Pablo Neruda and visual artists alike, this coastal city gives Santiago a run for its money. With brimming culture, eye-catching street art and an ever-increasing size, Valparaíso is a must-see on your Chilean adventure. Admire the colorful houses that hang off each other artistically, and marvel at how they are all still intact after so many earthquakes.
The Wine Valleys
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In Chile, there is no shortage of vineyards – nor valleys where world-class wine is made. In fact, most of the countryside surrounding Santiago is lined with blossoming vines, which are used to create some of the finest wines in the world. Why not try a tipple of Carménère, Syrah and Pinot Noir, accompanied by some fine Chilean cuisine cooked with local meat to experience the real deal.
Chiloé Island
Architectural Landmark
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Courtesy of Jose Luis Stephens / Alamy Stock Photo
As you venture down to the south of Chile, you will encounter much German influence – as well as Mapuche traditions. Chiloe Island, in particular, is an island where, due to its isolation, life continues much as it did in the past. If you’re lucky to witness a minga celebration, you might get the chance to taste the explosive flavor of a curanto, too.
Pisco Elqui
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This sublime area of Chile is where the national drink, pisco, is made. Take a tour around the distillery and taste the product – as well as enjoying great trekking and other outdoor activities. The village of Pisco Elqui isn’t far from La Serena, so you can combine your trip with a stop off at Isla Damas, where you can spot penguins on one of the many beaches.
Carretera Austral
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Embark on a road trip or a journey by bicycle along this famous route, stopping at the marvelous marble caves found on the General Carrera Lake. As you whizz over the glacial lakes by boat towards the caves, you will experience incredible tranquility. These stunning natural caves really are photogenic – with swirling patterns of the caves’ walls standing out against the azure blue lake.
Easter Island
Archaeological site
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Easter Island, the island of magic, is where the Moai statues are there to protect you. Discover the enchanting history and the traditions of Rapa Nuilounge on the pristine white beaches and bathe in the warm, crystal-clear sea – where you can enjoy some of the best snorkeling and diving in the world. Oh, and be sure to look out for the wild horses; there are hundreds of them.
Tierra del Fuego
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Tierra del Fuego translates as “the end of the world”, and the main inhabitants here are the abundant colonies of Magellanic and Humboldt penguins. Nature and wildlife enthusiasts love the incredible mountainous scenery that comes hand in hand with animal spotting – keep an eye out for humpback whales, sea lions and dolphins, too.
Lauca National Park
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Located near the border of Peru and Bolivia are the snowcapped, rumbling volcanoes – Pomerape and Parinacota – of Putre. Lauca National Park is rich with flora and fauna, as well as plentiful grazing wildlife. Spot flamingoes, llamas, rheas and alpacas mincing around this spectacular park while you breathe in the fresh Chilean air.
Puerto Varas
Historical Landmark
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The Chilean lake district is another area not short of great treks worthy of a day – or two – exploring. From waterfalls to dense forests, gurgling volcanoes and quaint country villages, you’ll really feel you’re in the heart of Chile. Take a boat ride around one of the many lakes that offer a great angle of the surrounding volcanoes of Puerto Varas.
Pucón
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Pucon is an outdoor enthusiasts’ heaven. You can climb the Villarrica volcano, white-water raft on boisterous rapids, gallop through the valleys on horseback, go canyoning, hike through the surrounding national parks – and once you’ve completed all these, sit back and relax in the steamy natural thermal baths.
Portillo
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Courtesy of Gail Mooney-Kelly / Alamy Stock Photo
Portillo is South America’s oldest ski resort, with an iconic yellow building that is easily noticeable from all around the resort. Discover the pistes and ski on the well-groomed terrain – or if you’re feeling adventurous, explore some of the endless off-piste runs. Be sure to pack extra clothes for the evenings, as they are known to get into the minus temperatures.