What makes Chile Unique

Chile is a unique travel destination for several reasons:

  • Geographical Diversity: Chile is a long and narrow country that stretches for over 4,300 kilometres, with a variety of landscapes that include the Andes Mountains, the Atacama Desert, Patagonia, and a long coastline. The diversity of geography and ecosystems makes Chile a haven for adventure tourism and natural wonders.
  • Culture: Chilean culture is a mix of indigenous and European influences that have evolved over centuries. Visitors can explore the country's colonial past through its architecture and museums, while also experiencing traditional music, food, and art.
  • Wine: Chile is known for producing some of the best wine in the world, and visitors can explore vineyards and wineries throughout the country. The Chilean wine industry has a rich history and produces a variety of award-winning wines.
  • Adventure Tourism: Chile offers a variety of adventure tourism opportunities, including hiking, skiing, surfing, mountain biking, and more. The country's diverse geography makes it an ideal destination for those seeking outdoor thrills.
  • Sustainability: Chile is committed to sustainability and eco-tourism. The country has several national parks and protected areas, and many of the tourism activities are designed to support conservation efforts and local communities.

Top Highlights in Chile

Torres del Paine National Park

A stunning park with towering peaks, glaciers, lakes, and wildlife, offering opportunities for trekking and camping.

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Chiloé Island

An archipelago off the coast of Chile, known for its unique architecture, traditions, and cuisine.

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Valparaiso

A colourful and bohemian port city, with steep hills, street art, and a lively nightlife.

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Santiago

Chile's capital city has a rich cultural history, with several museums, galleries, and landmarks, such as the Plaza de Armas and the Cerro San Cristobal.

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Easter Island

Located off the coast of Chile, Easter Island is known for its mysterious Moai statues and unique Polynesian culture.

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Wine Regions

Chile has several wine regions, including the Casablanca, Colchagua, and Maipo Valleys. Visitors can take tours of the vineyards, sample wines, and learn about the wine-making process.

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Patagonia

Located at the southern end of the continent, Patagonia is known for its glaciers, fjords, and rugged mountains. Visitors can explore the area through hiking, wildlife watching, and other outdoor activities.

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The Atacama Desert

This is one of the driest deserts in the world, but it is also home to a variety of natural wonders, such as geysers, hot springs, salt flats, and stunning landscapes.

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Travel Ideas for Chile

Discover Patagonia

Embark on an unforgettable self-drive tour through Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego, starting and ending in Buenos Aires. This unique journey through Argentina and Chile will take you through breath-taking natural landscapes, endless vistas, glaciers, lakes, and the beautiful "End of the World." Your adventure begins in Buenos Aires, where you can experience the passion and rhythm of the tango with a live show. From there, you'll head to El Chalten and marvel at the imposing Fitz Roy mountain range, followed by a visit to the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier and the stunning Lago Argentino. Continuing on to El Calafate, you'll explore the picturesque town and nearby Torres del Paine National Park. You'll also have the opportunity to visit Puerto Natales, Punta Arenas, and Onaisin, where you can observe the majestic King Penguins in their natural habitat. The journey concludes in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, located on the shores of the Beagle Channel. Here you'll experience the rugged beauty of Tierra del Fuego and learn about the region's unique history and culture. This self-drive tour offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience through some of the most beautiful and remote areas of Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego.

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6K, Volcanoes, Salt Lakes & Geysirs in Chile and Bolivia

Looking for an exhilarating adventure that combines breath-taking landscapes and thrilling mountaineering? Our tour begins with some warm-up hikes around Putre, the Salar de Surire, and the Lauca National Park in Chile, before crossing the border into Bolivia to explore the Sajama National Park. You'll hike through stunning landscapes and relax in soothing hot springs, soaking up the natural beauty and unique culture of this remarkable region. But the highlight of the tour is the thrilling ascent of two of the region's most spectacular peaks: the 6000-meter Acotango and Parinacota volcanoes. Our experienced guides will lead you on a challenging but rewarding climb, taking you to the summit for stunning panoramic views that will take your breath away.

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Easter Island: Navel of the World

Discover the mystique of the world-famous Easter Island, also known as the Navel of the World. This 5-day, 4-night tour takes you on an adventure through the island's unique landscape and ancient history. During your stay, you'll witness the awe-inspiring Moai statues, which are over 1,000 years old and have puzzled researchers for generations. You'll visit the most important ceremonial sites and explore the island's intriguing history and culture, as well as its spectacular natural beauty. This tour offers an immersive experience that allows you to connect with the local people and learn about their way of life. You'll enjoy delicious local cuisine and stay in comfortable accommodations, making your trip an unforgettable experience.

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Essential Chile

Embark on an unforgettable 20-day journey through the diverse landscapes of Chile, from the towering Andes mountains to the picturesque coastline. Immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions as you explore vibrant cities, charming villages, and stunning natural wonders. Discover the vibrant capital city of Santiago and its bustling markets, street art, and architecture. Explore the stunning landscapes of the Atacama Desert, including the otherworldly Moon Valley and the geysers of El Tatio. Visit the picturesque vineyards of the Casablanca Valley and sample some of Chile's world-renowned wines. Experience the stunning beauty of Chile's Lake District, where snow-capped volcanoes, pristine lakes, and ancient forests provide the backdrop for your adventures. Hike through the stunning landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park, home to some of the most awe-inspiring scenery on the planet. Throughout your journey, you'll stay in comfortable accommodations that showcase Chile's unique charm and hospitality, enjoy authentic cuisine and local wines, and discover the warmth and friendliness of the Chilean people.

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Best Time to Visit

Generally, the best time to visit Chile is during the summer months from December to February when the weather is warm and sunny. This is an ideal time to explore Chile's cities, beaches, and outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and water sports. However, this is also the peak tourist season in Chile, and some popular destinations can be crowded and expensive.

If you plan to visit the Andes Mountains or go skiing, the best time to go is from June to August when the snow is at its best. During these months, you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

The shoulder seasons of September to November and March to May are also a good time to visit Chile. The weather is milder, and there are fewer crowds, making it an ideal time to explore Chile's natural wonders, such as the Atacama Desert, Easter Island, and the Chilean Lake District.

It's important to note that Chile has a Mediterranean climate with dry and hot summers and cold and rainy winters, so it's essential to pack accordingly with appropriate clothing.

Important Information for Your Travel Plans

Special Travel Tips from our Experts

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Where to Stay

Chile offers a variety of accommodation options for travellers:

  • Hotels: Chile has a range of hotels, from budget to luxury. There are many international hotel chains with a presence in the country, such as Marriott, Hilton, and InterContinental. Some iconic historic hotels in Chile include the Hotel del Mar in Viña del Mar and the Hotel Plaza San Francisco in Santiago.
  • Glamping: For a unique and luxurious experience, travellers can try glamping in Chile. There are several glamping sites around the country that offer comfortable tents and facilities such as hot tubs and outdoor showers.
  • Cabins: Renting a cabin is a popular option in Chile, particularly in the Lake District and Patagonia regions. There are many rental companies that offer a range of cabins, from basic to luxurious.
  • Eco-Lodges: Chile has many eco-lodges that offer a sustainable and environmentally friendly option for travellers. These lodges are often located in remote areas and offer a unique and immersive experience in nature.
  • Vineyard Hotels: For wine enthusiasts, staying in a vineyard hotel is a must-do in Chile. There are many vineyard hotels around the country, particularly in the Central Valley and Colchagua Valley regions.
  • Ski Resorts: For those looking for a winter getaway, Chile has several ski resorts that offer accommodation options such as hotels and cabins. Some popular ski resorts include Valle Nevado and Portillo.

Getting Around

The best way to travel around Chile depends on your itinerary and travel style. Domestic flights are available between the major cities, and there are also long-distance buses that connect many parts of the country. Car rentals are also an option, but be aware that driving in Chile can be challenging due to the long distances and mountainous terrain.

Travel Themes Most Common for Chile

Local Cuisine

Some of the local foods to try in Chile include:

  • Empanadas: Savoury pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, which are a popular snack or meal in Chile.
  • Pastel de Choclo: A traditional Chilean dish made with ground beef, onions, chicken, and corn, and is baked with a sweet corn crust.
  • Completo: A type of hot dog that is popular in Chile, topped with avocado, tomato, mayonnaise, and sauerkraut.
  • Cazuela: A hearty soup made with meat, vegetables, and potatoes, and is a popular dish in Chilean homes.
  • Pisco Sour: A cocktail made with pisco, a grape-based spirit, lime juice, and sugar, is the national drink of Chile.

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Festivals & Public Holidays

  • Independence Day: Chile celebrates its independence from Spain on September 18th and 19th with parades, festivals, and fireworks.
  • Fiestas Patrias: This week-long celebration in September includes traditional food, music, and dancing, and is one of the most important holidays in Chile.
  • Day of the Dead: Celebrated on November 1st and 2nd, this holiday is an opportunity for families to honour and remember their deceased loved ones.
  • La Tirana: This festival, held in the northern town of La Tirana, combines indigenous, Christian, and pagan traditions with dancing, music, and colourful costumes.
  • Viña del Mar International Song Festival: Held annually in Viña del Mar in February, this music festival attracts top performers from around the world.

When to Start Planning your Trip

Currency & Payment

The currency in Chile is the Chilean peso (CLP), and cash is widely used for small purchases. Credit cards are accepted at many businesses, but it's a good idea to carry some cash as well, especially when travelling outside of the major cities. ATMs are widely available, and many banks also offer currency exchange services. It's important to note that many businesses in Chile may charge an additional fee for credit card transactions.

Security

Chile is generally considered a safe destination for tourists, with a low crime rate compared to many other countries. However, travellers should still exercise caution and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, can occur in tourist areas and crowded places in Chile, particularly in Santiago and other major cities. Travellers should be vigilant with their belongings, especially in crowded places, and should avoid displaying valuables in public. It is also advisable to use a money belt or a secure bag to store important documents and money.

Chile is known for its seismic activity, with occasional earthquakes and tremors occurring throughout the country. Travellers should be aware of the potential for earthquakes and should follow the guidance of local authorities in the event of an earthquake or other natural disaster.

Demonstrations and protests can also occur in Chile, particularly in Santiago and other major cities, and these protests can sometimes become violent. Travellers should avoid large gatherings or protests and should stay informed about the situation through local media sources.

Visa & Immigration Rules

EU citizens travelling to Chile as tourists do not need a visa if their stay is less than 90 days. However, travellers must have a valid passport with at least six months validity from the date of entry into Chile. Additionally, all travellers must complete an online health form and provide proof of medical insurance. It's recommended to check with the Chilean embassy or consulate in your home country or your Tripedeo travel expert, for the latest entry requirements and travel advisories.

Health & Hygiene

Chile has a well-developed healthcare system, and medical facilities are generally of a high standard. However, medical treatment can be expensive, so it's recommended to have travel insurance that includes medical coverage. As with any international travel, it's also recommended to have up-to-date vaccinations for routine diseases such as measles, mumps, and rubella, as well as Hepatitis A and B. Visitors to certain areas of Chile may also want to consider vaccinations for diseases such as yellow fever, typhoid, and rabies, depending on their itinerary and activities.

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