Chile is a country of extremes. From the driest desert in the world in the north to windswept wilderness and glaciers in the south. It’s one of the most diverse countries I have ever visited and if we’re talking about nature and the outdoors Chile has it all. In this bucket list guide, you’ll find the best places to visit in Chile, which, in my opinion, are unmissable in this stunning country.
It’s definitely not the cheapest country and you will need a bit more cash to see it all. Prices compare to that of some places in Europe but that doesn’t mean you should disregard it. If you love landscapes, the outdoors and adventure Chile won’t disappoint. You’ll probably need about a month to really get the most out of your experience here.
One quick note; I have ordered these best places to visit in Chile geographically from North to South, so number 1 is the furthest North, not the best place. It really is impossible to rank these destinations as they are so diverse. They are all winners in their own way.
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#1 SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA
San Pedro is a small town in the Atacama desert, the driest desert in the world. While San Pedro makes a great base for your time in the desert the lure to this region lies outside the town itself. Valle de la Luna and Valle de la Muerte are two extraordinary, otherworldly valleys that look like you’ve literally just landed on Mars. Piedras Rojas is an amazing area of red stones surrounded by salt-water lagoons and clay coloured volcanoes. Make sure not to miss the Tatio Geysers- a mountain valley full of cauldrons of rising steam.
#2 BAHIA INGLESA
This little bay lies North-west of the city of
#3 VALLE DEL ELQUI
Valle del Elqui is an exquisitely irrigated green valley surrounded by dry, shrub mountains. Its the birthplace of Chilean Pisco and wine. Take in the stunning mountain views, travel from village to village soaking up the atmosphere and take a tour of the Pisco distilleries. Valle del Elqui is also home to a number of observatories this being one of the best places in the world to observe the night sky. If you love star gazing then don’t miss out!
#4 VALPARAÍSO
The celebration of everything bohemian. Valparaiso is the ultimate mix of bustling, hillside port town, local history and boho vibes. It’s the home of Chilean poet Pablo Neruda and it’s one of the graffiti capitals of South America. Stroll through the streets, admire the street art and the gorgeous views, ride the ancient funicular elevators and enjoy a Chilean empanada.
#5 CAJON DEL MAIPO
One of the best places to visit so close to the capital? Yup, Cajon del Maipo is only one hour away from Santiago and it provides a great escape from the city. It’s
In Santiago for 36 hrs or more? Check out all the things to do here.
#6 PUCON
If you love the outdoors, adventure and gastronomy Pucon is the place for you. This adventure capital of Chile is full of surprises at every turn. During the day you can explore the national parks and the Araucaria forests ( a Chilean native tree) or even climb up or trek around Volcan Villarica. Around Pucón, there is also a plethora of hot springs to choose from to relax your tired leg muscles. Pucón also boasts some wonderful gastronomic delights based around the Mapuche and German roots of the area. Don’t forget to try to the delicious German
#7 CHILOÉ
Chiloe is Chile’s largest island and one of the best places to visit in Chile, without a doubt. It marks the end of the Pan-American highway. It’s a melting- pot of local culture- the people of this island do almost everything differently than their mainland counterparts. Enjoy Chiloe’s spectacular folklore, food customs, colourful houses on stilts, spectacular churches, national parks and more. A must-try is
#8 MARBLE CAVES
The Cuevas de Mármol are solid marble caves in the Patagonian Andes, right on the remote General Carrera Lake. The caves are a result of 6,000 years of erosion, water smashing against the calcium carbonate of the cave walls. Between September and
#9 TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK
The Torres del Paine is the postcard image of Chile. Located right in the south of Patagonia near the town of Puerto Natales this park is probably one of the most beautiful national parks in the world. Trekking is the name of the game here with two of the most popular treks being the “O” and the “W”, named after the shape of the route taken through the park. You trek past ancient glaciers, jagged peaks, freezing glacial lakes and wild-swept scrublands. Be sure to keep an eye out for vicuña, a local llama-type animal and the infamous puma.
#10 TIERRA DEL FUEGO
The land of wind and fire is just that. This is one of the wildest places in the world and its beauty is unrivalled. I’d recommend visiting both the Chilean side and the Argentinian side as they are completely different. The Chilean side is quiet and remote while the Argentinian side and Ushuaia boast a great dining scene and more buzz. Take a boat ride across the Beagle C
What are the best places to visit in Chile for you? I’d be happy to answer all your comments and questions about Chile. Leave them below.
Related posts you might like:
The Best Day Tours from Santiago, Chile
What to Do in Santiago Chile in 36 hours
The Ultimate Self-Drive Itinerary for the Atacama Desert
Top Vineyards in the Casablanca Valley, Chile
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