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Chile Highlights

In the north is the Atacama Desert, the driest place on Earth; in the south are the Patagonian ice fields; in between are fertile valleys, forests as old as time, temperamental volcanoes, and unspoiled beaches; all of these dramatic landscapes can be found in beautiful Chile. Chile's landscape is a sight to behold, and these areas complement it perfectly. The length of the country has earned it praise, but its narrow width of only 175 kilometers defies reason.

From the top of South America to its bottom, the country of Chile is home to a wide variety of interesting and hospitable people, such as the amiable alpaca herders, the hardy huaso farmers of Patagonia, and the sophisticated professionals of Santiago.

The desolate moonscape of Valle de la Luna, the vast Atacama Desert with its rusty colored surroundings, the striking Atacama salt flat where Andean flamingos are silhouetted against an infinite skyline, chic Santiago with its cosmopolitan atmosphere, the thriving Chilean wine country, and mysterious Easter Island are all must-sees.

Eastern Island and Santiago

Eastern Islands , Santiago .

The Best of Chile

Eastern Islands , Santiago , Atacama .

Determining the best time to visit Chile depends on several factors, including the regions you plan to explore and your preferred activities. Chile's diverse geography results in various climates, from the north's arid desert to the south's temperate rainforest.

The peak tourist season in Chile typically runs from December to February, coinciding with the austral summer months. During this time, popular destinations such as Santiago, the Atacama Desert, and the Lake District experience warm temperatures and clear skies, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, beach-going, and sightseeing.

For those seeking to avoid crowds and enjoy milder weather, the shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer excellent alternatives. During these months, the weather is mild, and attractions are less crowded, making it ideal for exploring the wine valleys, national parks, and cultural sites.

Chile offers a wealth of activities for travelers to enjoy, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Explore Valparaiso's vibrant street art scene, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colorful houses, steep hillsides, and bohemian atmosphere. Take a boat tour to see Chilean Patagonia's towering glaciers and pristine fjords, or embark on a trekking adventure in Torres del Paine National Park, home to some of the world's most spectacular scenery.

Chile's climate varies significantly from region to region, with the north being hot and arid, the central region having a Mediterranean climate, and the south experiencing colder temperatures and more rainfall. In Santiago, the capital city, summers (December to February) are warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C (68°F to 95°F), while winters (June to August) are cooler and wetter, with temperatures ranging from 3°C to 14°C (37°F to 57°F). In the Atacama Desert, temperatures can reach extreme highs during the day and drop significantly at night, so it's essential to pack layers and sunscreen. In the Lake District, summers are mild and wet, while winters are cold and snowy, making it an ideal destination for skiing and snowboarding. Check the following chart for more information.

Comodoro Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport (SCL) - Santiago: Chile's main international gateway, serving the capital city of Santiago and offering connections to destinations across South America, North America, Europe, and Oceania.

El Tepual Airport (PMC)—Puerto Montt: Located in the Lake District region of southern Chile, El Tepual Airport serves Puerto Montt and offers domestic flights to destinations such as Santiago, Punta Arenas, and Easter Island.

Carriel Sur International Airport (CCP)—Concepcion: Serving the city of Concepcion in central Chile, Carriel Sur International Airport offers domestic and limited international flights to Santiago, Antofagasta, and Lima.

Mataveri International Airport (IPC) - Easter Island: Located on Easter Island, Mataveri International Airport is the main gateway to the island and offers flights to Santiago and other destinations in Chile.

Cerro Moreno International Airport (ANF) - Antofagasta: Serving the city of Antofagasta in northern Chile, Cerro Moreno International Airport offers domestic and international flights to destinations such as Santiago, Lima, and La Paz.

Hotel Santiago—Santiago: This luxury hotel is located in the upscale Las Condes neighborhood of Santiago. It offers elegant rooms, gourmet dining, and panoramic views of the city and the Andes Mountains.

Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa—Torres Del Paine: Nestled within Torres del Paine National Park in southern Chile, this hotel offers luxurious accommodations, gourmet cuisine, and guided excursions to explore the wilderness.

Explora Atacama—San Pedro de Atacama: Set amidst the otherworldly landscapes of the Atacama Desert, Explora Atacama offers all-inclusive stays with daily excursions to discover the region's natural wonders, including salt flats, geysers, and lunar-like valleys.

Awasi Patagonia—Torres Del Paine: Located on the shores of Lake Sarmiento in Torres del Paine National Park, Awasi Patagonia offers exclusive villas with private guides, personalized excursions, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.

Ritz-Carlton Santiago—Santiago: A luxury hotel in the heart of Santiago's financial district, Ritz-Carlton Santiago offers spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, and fine dining options. It provides a luxurious retreat in the bustling city.

Singular Santiago—Santiago: Housed in a historic building in the Lastarria neighborhood of Santiago, Singular Santiago offers stylish accommodations, a rooftop bar, and a restaurant serving contemporary Chilean cuisine. It is an ideal base for exploring the city's cultural attractions.

Vira Vira Hacienda Hotel—Pucon: Situated on a private estate in the Lake District region of southern Chile, Vira Vira Hacienda Hotel offers luxurious accommodations, farm-to-table dining, and outdoor activities such as horseback riding, fly fishing, and hiking.

Alto Atacama Desert Lodge & Spa—San Pedro de Atacama: Located in the heart of the Atacama Desert, Alto Atacama Desert Lodge & Spa offers eco-friendly accommodations, a spa, and guided excursions to explore the desert's unique landscapes, including salt flats, geysers, and ancient petroglyphs.

The Singular Patagonia—Puerto Natales: Set amidst the rugged beauty of Chilean Patagonia, This hotel offers luxurious accommodations, gourmet cuisine, and guided excursions to discover the region's natural wonders, including glaciers, fjords, and wildlife.

Cumbres Puerto Varas Hotel—Puerto Varas: Located in the Lake District region, the Cumbres Puerto Varas Hotel overlooks Lake Llanquihue and the Osorno Volcano. It offers comfortable rooms, a spa, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.

Borago—Santiago: Chef Rodolfo Guzman heads Borago, a pioneering restaurant in Santiago's culinary scene. It offers innovative Chilean cuisine with a focus on native ingredients and traditional cooking techniques, earning it a place among the world's best restaurants.

Astrid y Gaston - Santiago: A branch of the renowned Peruvian restaurant, Astrid y Gaston in Santiago offers a fusion of Peruvian and Chilean flavors, with dishes inspired by local ingredients and culinary traditions, served in an elegant setting overlooking Parque Bicentenario.

99 Restaurant—Santiago: Led by chef Kurt Schmidt, 99 Restaurant showcases seasonal ingredients from Chile's diverse ecosystems. The menu changes daily to reflect the freshest produce, seafood, and meats available, earning it a reputation as one of Santiago's top dining destinations.

Ambrosia—Santiago: Chef Carolina Bazan's Ambrosia offers contemporary Chilean cuisine with French influences. It features creative dishes made with locally sourced ingredients and an extensive wine list highlighting Chile's diverse wine regions, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts in Santiago.

La Mar - Santiago: A branch of the celebrated Peruvian restaurant chain, La Mar in Santiago offers a menu of fresh seafood and ceviche, along with traditional Peruvian dishes and cocktails, served in a lively atmosphere with views of Parque Araucano.

While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, carrying cash for transactions in smaller towns and rural areas is advisable. The local currency is the Chilean peso (CLP), and ATMs are readily available in urban centers for cash withdrawal. However, it's essential to be cautious of counterfeit bills and to exchange currency at reputable establishments to avoid scams. Additionally, some businesses may offer discounts for cash payments, so it's worth keeping some pesos on hand. For added convenience, consider using a travel card that allows you to load multiple currencies and withdraw cash without foreign transaction fees.

Fiestas Patrias (Independence Day): Celebrated on September 18th and 19th, Fiestas Patrias is Chile's national holiday, marking the anniversary of the country's independence from Spanish rule. Festivities include traditional music, dance, food, and drink, with parades, rodeos, and street parties held across the country.

La Tirana: Held in the northern town of La Tirana in July, this religious festival honors the Virgen del Carmen, the patron saint of Chile. Festivities include colorful processions, traditional dances, and music, with participants wearing elaborate costumes and masks to ward off evil spirits.

Carnaval de Viña del Mar: Taking place in February in the coastal city of Viña del Mar, Carnaval is one of Chile's most popular festivals. It features vibrant parades, music, and dance performances. The festival's highlight is the crowning of the Carnival Queen and King, followed by fireworks and festivities along the waterfront.

Semana Santa (Holy Week): Celebrated throughout Chile during Holy Week, Semana Santa features religious processions, reenactments of the Passion of Christ, and traditional foods such as empanadas de Pascua (Easter empanadas) and sopaipillas (fried dough).

Fiesta de la Vendimia: Held in March in Chile's wine-producing regions, Fiesta de la Vendimia celebrates the grape harvest with wine tastings, vineyard tours, and traditional grape-stomping competitions, showcasing Chile's rich winemaking heritage and culture.

Before traveling to Chile, check visa requirements and vaccination recommendations, particularly for yellow fever, if visiting certain regions is essential. Pack appropriate clothing for the climate and activities you plan to undertake, whether hiking in the mountains, exploring the desert, or relaxing on the beach. Be aware of currency exchange rates and consider bringing a mix of cash and cards for convenience. Learning some basic Spanish phrases is also advisable, as English may not be widely spoken in more remote areas. Lastly, embrace the warmth and hospitality of the Chilean people and prepare for a journey filled with adventure, beauty, and unforgettable experiences in this diverse and captivating country.

Chile is home to many stunning natural landscapes, cultural attractions, and historic sites, making it a dream destination for travelers. In Santiago, the vibrant capital city, visitors can explore historic neighborhoods such as Bellavista and Barrio Lastarria, visit world-class museums like the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, and sample delicious Chilean cuisine at local markets and restaurants.

For nature lovers, Torres del Paine National Park in southern Chile offers some of the country's most spectacular scenery, with towering mountains, turquoise lakes, and glaciers. The Atacama Desert in northern Chile is the driest in the world and is renowned for its otherworldly landscapes, salt flats, and geysers.