Four Must-See Destinations in Chile

Erin
Nov 30, 2020
2 min read

Updated: Jul 30

Chile is the narrowest nation throughout the world, yet its borders provide some of the most diverse terrains. From waterfalls to mountains, hot springs to volcanoes… you never know what you might come across next. It's no secret that the country provides a vast array of exciting things to do and see for people of all ages. As a foreigner entering the nation, you will find that the rich culture, fantastic cuisine, lively nightlife, and sightseeing can keep you busy for a lifetime, so we've created a list of four of Chile's best destination spots that you must-see first.

A bright, sunlit view of a grand, ornate building with classical architecture, featuring columns, statues, and decorative elements, likely in Santiago, Chile. Palm trees frame the building, with a fountain or water feature in the foreground. The sunlight creates a strong lens flare on the right side of the image. The setting appears to be a public square or park, with modern buildings visible in the background. — Urban Park in Santiago

Santiago

Santiago is the capital of this majestic country, and it certainly doesn't lack character. As the largest city in Chile, you will find that residents and tourists favor it for many reasons. Each neighborhood nestled within the city's borders is distinctly different from the next. For instance, as you enter Bellavista, you are introduced to historical European homes and free-spirited energy that you can't ignore. With colorful buildings, marketplaces, and street art around nearly every corner, your eyes could wonder each crevice and still find new details while your ears get to hear the pleasant sounds of live music fill the air.

A panoramic, elevated view of the colorful hillside city of Valparaíso, Chile. A vibrant green-roofed church with a tall steeple stands out against the clear blue sky, surrounded by a dense collection of houses painted in various bright colors like red, blue, yellow, and pastel shades. Many buildings have corrugated iron roofs. The city cascades down towards the deep blue ocean, where a glimpse of the harbor and distant ships is visible. — Valparaiso

Valparaiso

If the street art of Santiago gave your eyes pleasure, wait until you experience Valparaiso. This city is one of the most desirable places for tourists due to its bountiful amount of cafes, art galleries, and coffee shops. Take the rich history of this Santiago suburb in by viewing the protest art created by young protesters in the 60's and 70's that referred to themselves as the "Ramona Parra Brigades," or take a walk through the open museum of Museo a Cielo Abierto to get a glimpse of murals that are beyond your wildest dreams.

A winding wooden boardwalk, the Sendero El Tepual footpath, leads through a dense, lush green forest in Chiloe National Park, Chiloe Island, Chile. Sunlight filters through the thick canopy of trees, illuminating parts of the path and creating a dappled light effect. The trees are gnarled and covered in moss, with rich foliage creating an immersive natural environment. — Sendero El Tepual footpath at Chiloe National Park

Isla Grande de Chiloe

The beautiful beaches and thickly forested areas of Isla Grande de Chiloe seem to go on forever with their beauty. As you explore, you will find waterfalls, wildlife, and empty beaches no matter where you go on the island. The winter months in Chiloe may not allow for residents and tourists to take advantage of the many water activities there are to enjoy, but that certainly doesn't stop the penguins.

A dramatic landscape photo captures the El Tatio geysers at sunrise in the Atacama Desert, Chile. Steam billows from multiple vents across a vast, muddy, and reflective ground with cracks, showing reflections of the dynamic sky. Geysers actively spout water into the air. In the background, mountains rise under a wide sky filled with dramatic, dark clouds and patches of bright blue, with hints of sunrise colors. — El Tatio geysers at sunrise, Atacama desert, Chile

San Pedro de Atacama

Known as one of the driest desert regions on this planet, San Pedro de Atacama isn't meant for everyone crossing through. Nevertheless, the area provides some of the best night skies and exciting hiking adventures. Make sure to check out the volcano Lascar which is situated at the arc connecting four countries before you head to the geyser field of El Tatio for a soak in its hot springs.

Have I enticed you to put Chile on your bucket list? Schedule a consultation today so we can start planning your trip!