Exploring Chile is a memorable journey for nature lovers and hikers. Its dramatic nature is a natural wonder and one of a kind. You won’t get bored in this country since it offers plenty of activities to adventurous travellers. See the penguins and whales, Chilean fjords, snowy Andes, and amazing coastal views. And don’t forget to try the food! With a variety of dishes throughout this long-stretched country, you’ll be able to savour many flavourful experiences.
Santiago de Chile
Santiago is the capital of the country, and it is a modern metropolis with one of the most dynamic economies in South America. Skyscrapers and vibrant city life makes an interesting contrast to the city of La Paz, for example. There are so many things to see and explore in Chile, that you’ll probably want to continue your journey quite fast from Santiago de Chile.
What to experience in Chile?
Punta Arenas is Chile’s most southerly city and it has long been attracting Antarctic research and tourist vessels. Antarctic Cruises take you to see penguin colony at Otway Sound as well as seals and whales in spectacular views.
San Pedro de Atacama is a small colonial village. There is great access to geysers, volcanoes, salt flats and lakes of the northern part of Chile from San Pedro de Atacama. The Atacama desert is known for being the driest place on Earth, and to many this is one of the top sights to see in Chile. You can also take a tour to the remote Valley of Moon.
Parque Nacional Lauca is a huge park, with herds of llama and alpaca and over 100 bird species. Lago Chungará is one of the world’s highest lakes, located at the foot of the Payachata volcano. If you're into fjords, you can cruise through Chilean fjords on the way from Puerto Montt to Puerto Natales. The views won't leave you disappointed.
The famous Easter Island (Rupa Nui) is located 3700 km west of the Chilean mainland. Here you will experience more of a Polynesian vibe, rather than a Chilean. Easter Island is one of the most isolated in the world and it has a mystical image. Discover the huge rock statues known as moai, and don’t forget your camera.
Backpacker advice for Chile
The most popular backpacker destination is probably Parque Nacional Torres del Paine - especially from December to March. Not many people get to see a place like this, but those who do, won’t forget it. This park is a hiker’s paradise with a well-developed trail network, as well as good campsites. The remote nature here is truly dramatic. Make sure you have several days for hiking because you’ll want to spend some time here.
Lake district offers lots of interesting sites to see and activities for outdoor oriented travellers. You can stay in Puerto Montt and take day trips to Chiloe Island, or to the national parks to see waterfalls, lakes and mountains. There are plenty of things to do - try your luck by fishing, hike the beautiful trails, go horse riding, mountain biking or canyoning.