Krist S
Chile is a land of diverse landscapes, rich culture, and breathtaking natural wonders. From the arid expanses of the Atacama Desert to the lush forests of Patagonia, this South American gem offers travelers an array of unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a history buff, or someone seeking serene beauty, Chile has something special for you.
In this article, we’ll explore the ten best travel destinations in Chile, each offering unique attractions and experiences. These destinations showcase the country’s diverse beauty and cultural richness, making Chile a must-visit for any traveler.
10 Best Travel Destinations in Chile: Must-Visit Places for an Unforgettable Trip
1. Santiago
As the capital city, Santiago is often the starting point for many travelers. Nestled between the Andes Mountains and the Chilean Coastal Range, Santiago offers a blend of modernity and tradition. The city’s skyline is a striking mix of towering skyscrapers and historic buildings, with the Gran Torre Santiago standing as the tallest building in South America.
Visitors can explore historic neighborhoods like Bellavista, known for its vibrant street art, bohemian atmosphere, and lively nightlife. Here, you’ll find La Chascona, the former home of Chilean poet Pablo Neruda, now a museum showcasing his fascinating life and collections. The Plaza de Armas, the city’s main square, is surrounded by colonial-era landmarks such as the Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago and the Central Post Office, reflecting the city’s rich history. Nearby, the Palacio de La Moneda, Chile’s presidential palace, offers guided tours that provide insight into the country’s political past.
For breathtaking city views, take a funicular ride up San Cristóbal Hill, where the Virgin Mary statue overlooks Santiago. The hill is part of Parque Metropolitano, the city’s largest green space, which also houses a zoo and botanical garden. Another excellent viewpoint is Sky Costanera, an observation deck in the Costanera Center that provides a 360-degree panorama of the city and the Andes.
Food lovers should visit Mercado Central, one of the best places to experience Chilean seafood. Try local specialties like ceviche, reineta (a type of white fish), and the famous Chilean king crab (centolla). For a more contemporary dining experience, head to the Lastarria neighborhood, where stylish cafés and restaurants serve modern Chilean cuisine and excellent local wines.
Santiago is also a great base for day trips. Just a short drive away, travelers can visit the Maipo Valley, famous for its vineyards and wine tastings, or the Cajón del Maipo, a stunning natural retreat with hiking trails, waterfalls, and hot springs. Whether you’re interested in history, food, or outdoor adventures, Santiago offers something for every traveler.
2. Valparaíso
Just a short drive from Santiago, Valparaíso—or “Valpo” as the locals call it—is a vibrant coastal city famous for its colorful hillside homes, steep funiculars, and bohemian culture. Known as the “Jewel of the Pacific,” this port city has long been a hub for artists, poets, and free spirits. Its historic quarter was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003, reflecting its architectural and cultural significance.
One of the best ways to experience Valparaíso is by exploring its cerros (hills), particularly Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción. These neighborhoods are packed with mosaic-covered staircases, quirky art galleries, and cozy cafés that spill onto narrow, winding streets. The city’s street art scene is among the best in Latin America, with entire walls transformed into murals that tell stories of Chilean history, social movements, and everyday life. The Museo a Cielo Abierto (Open-Air Museum) showcases some of the most iconic street art in the city.
A ride on one of Valparaíso’s historic funiculars is a must-do experience. These cable cars, some over 100 years old, were originally built to help residents navigate the city’s steep hills. The Ascensor Reina Victoria and Ascensor El Peral are among the most popular, offering both convenience and spectacular ocean views.
Down by the waterfront, the Plaza Sotomayor serves as the city’s main square and is home to the Monumento a los Héroes de Iquique, a memorial honoring Chilean naval heroes. Nearby, visitors can tour the Port of Valparaíso, one of the most important in South America, where bustling markets and seafood restaurants line the docks. A boat tour from the harbor provides stunning views of the city’s colorful hillsides and a chance to see playful sea lions lounging near the piers.
For literature lovers, La Sebastiana, another former home of poet Pablo Neruda, offers an intimate look into his life and love for the sea. The house, now a museum, is filled with eclectic decor, maritime artifacts, and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
Whether you’re admiring the street art, riding a historic funicular, or enjoying fresh seafood by the bay, Valparaíso offers a unique and colorful travel experience unlike any other in Chile.
3. Atacama Desert
The Atacama Desert, located in northern Chile, is the driest non-polar desert in the world, with some areas receiving no recorded rainfall for centuries. Despite its extreme conditions, this vast landscape—stretching over 100,000 square kilometers—is filled with breathtaking natural wonders, unique wildlife, and ancient archaeological sites.
One of the most famous attractions in the region is Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley), a surreal landscape of rugged rock formations, dunes, and salt flats that resemble the surface of the moon. The valley is particularly stunning at sunset, when the setting sun paints the rocks in shades of orange, red, and purple. Nearby, Valle de la Muerte (Death Valley) offers thrilling activities like sandboarding down massive dunes.
Another highlight is the El Tatio geyser field, the third-largest geyser field in the world. With over 80 active geysers, the best time to visit is before sunrise, when the steam jets rise dramatically against the cold morning air, creating an otherworldly scene. Visitors can also relax in the hot springs near the geysers, enjoying warm, mineral-rich waters in the middle of the desert.
The Atacama Desert is also home to some of the clearest skies on Earth, making it one of the best places for stargazing. The combination of high altitude, dry air, and minimal light pollution allows for unparalleled views of the Milky Way, planets, and distant galaxies. The ALMA Observatory, one of the most advanced astronomical facilities in the world, is located here, attracting scientists and astronomy enthusiasts alike. Visitors can also book night tours to observatories such as Cerro Paranal or San Pedro de Atacama’s stargazing tours, where powerful telescopes reveal the beauty of the cosmos.
Wildlife lovers will also find surprises in the desert. Despite the harsh environment, the Atacama is home to flamingos, vicuñas (relatives of llamas), foxes, and even Andean condors. The Chaxa Lagoon, located in the Salar de Atacama (Atacama Salt Flats), is one of the best places to see pink flamingos feeding in the shallow waters, with a stunning backdrop of the Andean mountains.
For those interested in history and ancient cultures, the Pukará de Quitor, a pre-Columbian fortress built by the Atacameño people over 700 years ago, offers insight into the region’s indigenous heritage. The nearby town of San Pedro de Atacama, the gateway to the desert, is a charming village with adobe houses, a historic church, lively markets, and a fascinating museum showcasing ancient artifacts, mummies, and petroglyphs.
From its alien-like landscapes to its star-filled skies, the Atacama Desert is a destination like no other. Whether you’re exploring the salt flats, relaxing in thermal waters, or gazing at distant galaxies, this region offers an unforgettable adventure in one of the most unique places on Earth.
4. Torres del Paine National Park
Located in southern Patagonia, Torres del Paine National Park is one of the most spectacular natural destinations in Chile and a paradise for hikers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Covering approximately 2,400 square kilometers, the park is known for its towering granite peaks, turquoise lakes, massive glaciers, and diverse ecosystems. The park takes its name from the Torres del Paine (Towers of Paine)—three iconic granite spires that rise dramatically above the landscape, reaching heights of over 2,500 meters (8,200 feet).
The park offers a network of hiking trails, ranging from short scenic walks to challenging multi-day treks. The most famous route is the W Trek, a 4- to 5-day journey that covers approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles). This trek takes visitors through some of the park’s most breathtaking landscapes, including the French Valley, Grey Glacier, and the base of the Torres del Paine towers. For more experienced hikers, the O Circuit is a 9-day trek that encircles the entire park, offering even more remote and stunning scenery.
Beyond hiking, visitors can explore the park’s shimmering lakes, such as Lago Pehoé, Lago Nordenskjöld, and Lago Grey, each offering unreal shades of blue and green due to glacial meltwater. Grey Glacier, part of the massive Southern Patagonian Ice Field, is one of the park’s highlights, with visitors able to hike on the glacier, kayak near its massive ice walls, or take a scenic boat tour.
Torres del Paine is also a wildlife haven, home to species like guanacos (a relative of llamas), Andean condors, foxes, and even pumas. The park is one of the best places in the world to spot wild pumas, especially during the early morning or late evening hours. Birdwatchers will also be delighted to see flamingos, black-necked swans, and the rare Magellanic woodpecker.
Due to its stunning landscapes and ecological significance, Torres del Paine was selected as the eighth wonder of the world in 2013, solidifying its place as a bucket-list destination for travelers worldwide. Whether you’re hiking to its legendary peaks, cruising past icebergs, or simply soaking in the raw beauty of Patagonia, Torres del Paine National Park offers an unforgettable adventure in one of the world’s most breathtaking wilderness areas.
5. Chiloé Archipelago
The Chiloé Archipelago, located in southern Chile, is a culturally rich and naturally beautiful destination that feels worlds apart from the mainland. The largest island, Isla Grande de Chiloé, is famous for its mystical folklore, colorful stilted houses (palafitos), wooden churches, and traditional Chilote cuisine. Unlike the towering peaks of Patagonia or the dry expanses of the Atacama, Chiloé offers a landscape of rolling green hills, dense forests, and misty coastal villages, creating a peaceful and enchanting atmosphere.
One of Chiloé’s most famous attractions is its series of wooden churches, 16 of which have been designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These churches, built by Jesuit missionaries in the 17th and 18th centuries, showcase a unique blend of Spanish and indigenous craftsmanship, using local wood instead of stone. Iglesia de San Francisco in Castro and Iglesia de Santa María de Loreto in Achao are among the most striking examples, featuring beautifully painted interiors and wooden shingles on their exteriors.
Another iconic feature of Chiloé is its palafitos, the colorful stilted houses built along the waterfront in cities like Castro and Chonchi. Originally constructed by fishermen to adapt to the tides, these homes are now a symbol of the island’s rich maritime culture. Many of them have been converted into guesthouses, boutique hotels, and seafood restaurants, allowing visitors to experience this unique architectural style firsthand.
Chiloé is also steeped in mystical folklore, with legends of ghost ships, forest spirits, and mythical creatures like the Trauco (a goblin-like figure) and the Caleuche (a ghostly ship that sails the waters at night). Many locals still believe in these legends, adding a fascinating cultural dimension to any visit.
For nature lovers, Chiloé National Park and Tantauco Park offer stunning hiking trails, secluded beaches, and opportunities to spot wildlife. The island is home to rare species like the pudú (one of the world’s smallest deer), Magellanic and Humboldt penguins, sea otters, and even migrating blue whales. The Puñihuil Penguin Colony, located on the western coast, is one of the few places where both Magellanic and Humboldt penguins can be seen nesting together.
Chiloé is also a food lover’s paradise, famous for its traditional Chilote cuisine. The most famous dish is curanto, a hearty seafood and meat stew cooked in an underground pit using hot stones. Other must-try dishes include milcao (potato pancakes) and chapalele (potato dumplings), both made from the island’s native potatoes, of which there are over 400 varieties.
With its unique culture, breathtaking landscapes, and deep-rooted traditions, Chiloé offers a serene and enriching getaway for travelers looking to immerse themselves in local life, folklore, and history. Whether you’re exploring historic churches, hiking through lush forests, or enjoying fresh seafood by the coast, Chiloé provides an authentic and unforgettable Chilean experience.
6. Lake District
Chile’s Lake District, stretching from Temuco to Puerto Montt, is a breathtaking region of deep-blue lakes, towering snow-capped volcanoes, lush forests, and charming villages. Often compared to the landscapes of Switzerland or New Zealand, this area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, skiing, kayaking, and hot springs. The region is also known for its strong German influence, evident in its architecture, food, and culture, a legacy of 19th-century German settlers.
One of the most popular destinations in the Lake District is Pucón, a vibrant town on the shores of Lake Villarrica, known as Chile’s adventure capital. The biggest attraction here is Villarrica Volcano, an active stratovolcano that offers one of the most thrilling hikes in South America. Adventurous travelers can join a guided trek to the snow-covered summit, where they may even see lava glowing inside the crater. In winter, the Villarrica Ski Resort provides excellent skiing and snowboarding. After a day of adventure, visitors can relax in the region’s natural hot springs, such as Termas Geométricas, a beautiful complex of thermal pools surrounded by lush greenery.
Further south, Puerto Varas sits along the shores of Lake Llanquihue, one of Chile’s largest lakes, with stunning views of Osorno Volcano, often compared to Japan’s Mount Fuji due to its near-perfect cone shape. The town is famous for its Bavarian-style architecture, cozy cafés, and German-inspired cuisine, such as kuchen (fruit tart), apple strudel, and craft beers. Visitors can explore nearby Petrohué Falls, where turquoise waters rush over volcanic rocks, or take a scenic boat trip across Todos los Santos Lake, surrounded by pristine forests.
The Lake District is also home to Chiloé Island (part of the Chiloé Archipelago), known for its stilted houses, wooden churches, and rich folklore. Another must-visit destination is Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve, a private nature reserve offering rainforest hiking trails, waterfalls, and eco-lodges that blend seamlessly into the landscape.
With its dramatic landscapes, outdoor adventures, and cultural heritage, Chile’s Lake District is a favorite among travelers seeking both adrenaline-pumping activities and peaceful retreats in nature. Whether you’re climbing volcanoes, exploring German-style villages, or soaking in hot springs, this region offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of southern Chile.
7. Easter Island (Rapa Nui)
Located over 3,500 kilometers (2,200 miles) west of mainland Chile, Easter Island (Rapa Nui) is one of the most remote inhabited islands in the world. This mysterious island is best known for its moai statues—massive stone figures carved by the Rapa Nui people between the 13th and 16th centuries. These towering figures, some weighing up to 75 tons, were created to honor ancestors and chiefs, playing a central role in the island’s culture and beliefs.
The island is an open-air museum, with over 900 moai statues scattered across its volcanic landscape. One of the most famous sites is Ahu Tongariki, where 15 moai stand in a dramatic row overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Another iconic location is Rano Raraku, a volcanic quarry where most of the moai were carved. Here, visitors can see unfinished statues, some still embedded in the rock, providing insight into the carving process. Ahu Akivi is another unique site, as its seven moai face the ocean, unlike most others that look inland.
Beyond its archaeological wonders, Easter Island boasts stunning natural landscapes. Rano Kau, an extinct volcano, features a massive crater with a freshwater lake and lush vegetation, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Nearby, Orongo Ceremonial Village reveals another aspect of Rapa Nui history, showcasing petroglyphs and stone houses linked to the Birdman cult, an ancient ritual competition.
For those looking to relax, Anakena Beach is a tropical paradise with white sand, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear waters, making it the perfect spot for swimming. Ovahe Beach, a more secluded location, offers pink-hued sand and turquoise waters, ideal for a peaceful escape.
The island’s Polynesian culture remains vibrant, with traditions reflected in its music, dance, and cuisine. Visitors can experience a traditional Rapa Nui dance performance, such as kari kari, or try local dishes like ceviche, curanto (earth-baked seafood and meat stew), and tuna empanadas.
Easter Island is also one of the best stargazing locations in the world due to its minimal light pollution and remote location. The dark, clear skies provide a perfect view of the Milky Way, making it a dream destination for astronomy enthusiasts.
Whether you want to explore mystical moai statues, hike volcanic craters, or relax on tropical beaches, Easter Island offers a one-of-a-kind experience that blends archaeological mystery, breathtaking scenery, and Polynesian heritage.
8. Valle de Colchagua
For wine lovers, Valle de Colchagua (Colchagua Valley) is one of the top travel destinations in Chile, known for producing some of the country’s finest red wines. Located about 180 kilometers (112 miles) south of Santiago, this valley is part of Chile’s Central Wine Region and is particularly famous for its Carménère and Cabernet Sauvignon. The valley’s Mediterranean climate, fertile soil, and cool ocean breezes create the perfect conditions for high-quality winemaking.
A visit to Colchagua is incomplete without a vineyard tour and wine tasting experience. Many of Chile’s most prestigious wineries are located here, offering visitors a chance to explore vast vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and sample world-class wines. Some of the most well-known wineries include:
- Viña Montes – Famous for its premium Carménère and Syrah wines, this winery is known for its modern architecture, gravity-fed winemaking techniques, and stunning hillside views.
- Clos Apalta Winery – A boutique winery recognized for producing some of Chile’s most award-winning wines, including the renowned Clos Apalta blend.
- Viu Manent – One of the oldest wineries in the region, offering horse-drawn carriage tours through its scenic vineyards.
- Santa Cruz Winery – Not only a great place for wine tasting but also home to a cable car ride that takes visitors to an on-site museum showcasing Chile’s indigenous cultures.
Beyond wine, Colchagua Valley offers a peaceful countryside escape, with rolling hills, colonial-style estates, and scenic landscapes. The Colchagua Museum, located in Santa Cruz, is one of the best history and archaeology museums in Chile, featuring fossils, pre-Columbian artifacts, and exhibits on Chile’s colonial past.
For those looking for a luxurious experience, the valley boasts wine resorts, boutique hotels, and farm-to-table restaurants, where visitors can enjoy local Chilean cuisine paired with world-class wines. Traditional dishes such as pastel de choclo (corn pie) and empanadas perfectly complement the region’s rich red wines.
With its beautiful vineyards, top-quality wines, and relaxed rural atmosphere, Valle de Colchagua is the perfect destination for those wanting to experience Chile’s wine culture in a serene and picturesque setting.
9. Punta Arenas
Located near the southern tip of Chile, Punta Arenas is the largest city in Chilean Patagonia and serves as the gateway to Antarctica. Its strategic location along the Strait of Magellan has made it a historic hub for explorers, sailors, and traders for centuries. Today, it is a fascinating destination that offers a mix of history, nature, and adventure.
One of the best ways to experience Punta Arenas’ rich maritime history is by visiting the Nao Victoria Museum. Here, visitors can see a full-scale replica of the Nao Victoria, the ship used by Ferdinand Magellan when he became the first European to navigate the Strait of Magellan in the early 16th century. The museum also houses replicas of other historic ships, offering a glimpse into the past voyages that shaped global exploration.
The city itself features a historic city center with elegant European-style architecture, reflecting its strong Croatian, British, and Spanish influences. A walk through Plaza Muñoz Gamero, the city’s main square, reveals statues, colonial buildings, and the iconic monument of Magellan, where legend says that rubbing the foot of the indigenous figure on the statue brings good luck. Nearby, the Palacio Sara Braun, a beautifully preserved mansion, showcases the wealth and opulence of the region’s 19th-century wool barons.
Beyond the city, wildlife lovers can take excursions to see Magellanic penguins in their natural habitat. One of the best places for this is Isla Magdalena, home to over 100,000 Magellanic penguins. Visitors can take a boat tour from Punta Arenas to walk among these charming birds and observe them up close. Another incredible wildlife spot is Seno Otway, where penguins can also be seen nesting during the breeding season.
For those interested in Antarctica, Punta Arenas is one of the main departure points for expeditions to the frozen continent. Many scientific teams, cruise ships, and adventure tours depart from here, making it an important connection for travelers heading to the southernmost reaches of the planet.
Punta Arenas also offers breathtaking Patagonian landscapes, with opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and exploring remote fjords. Nearby, Torres del Paine National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers, while Reserva Nacional Magallanes provides easier access to Patagonian forests just outside the city.
With its blend of history, wildlife, and adventure, Punta Arenas is more than just a stopover on the way to Antarctica—it’s a vibrant and fascinating destination in its own right.
10. Carretera Austral
The Carretera Austral, or Route 7, is one of the most spectacular road trips in the world, stretching over 1,240 kilometers (770 miles) from Puerto Montt to Villa O’Higgins in southern Chile. This remote and rugged highway winds through some of Chile’s most untouched and breathtaking landscapes, offering travelers an unforgettable journey through dense temperate rainforests, dramatic fjords, towering glaciers, and rugged mountain ranges.
One of the most famous attractions along the route is Queulat National Park, home to the Hanging Glacier (Ventisquero Colgante). This incredible sight features a massive glacier suspended between mountain peaks, with waterfalls cascading down from the melting ice. Visitors can take hiking trails leading to breathtaking viewpoints or boat tours to see the glacier up close.
Another must-visit destination is General Carrera Lake, South America’s second-largest lake, shared between Chile and Argentina. The lake is famous for its Marble Caves (Capillas de Mármol), a stunning natural formation where turquoise waters have carved intricate patterns into the marble cliffs over thousands of years. Visitors can explore these caves by kayak or boat, witnessing how the sunlight reflects off the swirling blue and white patterns of the marble.
Further south, the Carretera Austral passes through Cochrane and the Patagonia National Park, a vast conservation area established by the Tompkins Conservation project. This park is a haven for wildlife, including guanacos, pumas, and Andean condors, and offers incredible hiking trails through pristine Patagonian landscapes.
The highway also leads to the Baker River, Chile’s most powerful river, known for its vibrant turquoise waters and world-class fly-fishing opportunities. Travelers can also enjoy rafting, kayaking, and camping along its scenic banks.
For the most adventurous travelers, the journey ends at Villa O’Higgins, a remote town surrounded by glaciers and the last stop on the Carretera Austral. From here, visitors can take boat trips to O’Higgins Glacier or even cross into Argentina via a rugged hiking and boat route to El Chaltén.
Driving the Carretera Austral is an epic adventure, requiring 4×4 vehicles, patience for ferry crossings, and a love for off-the-beaten-path travel. With its jaw-dropping landscapes, outdoor adventures, and untouched wilderness, this route offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those seeking Chile’s wild and remote beauty.
Conclusion
Chile’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage make it a captivating destination for travelers. From the bustling streets of Santiago to the remote beauty of Patagonia, each region offers unique experiences that cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, the best travel destinations in Chile provide a wealth of opportunities to explore and enjoy.
Embarking on a journey through Chile allows travelers to connect with nature, delve into history, and immerse themselves in vibrant local cultures. With its varied climates and terrains, Chile truly offers something for everyone, ensuring that each visit is as unique and memorable as the last.
