Chile Travel Guide (South America)

Introduction to Chile

Chile is a fascinating country located in South America, bordering Argentina, Bolivia, and Peru. With over 4,000 km of coastline along the Pacific Ocean, Chile boasts stunning landscapes ranging from the arid Atacama Desert to the lush forests of the Lake District. With a rich history and culture, Chile makes for a fantastic destination for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax and unwind.

List of Places to Visit in Chile

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

La Chascona Museum: This museum in Santiago is dedicated to the life and work of the famous Chilean poet, Pablo Neruda. It offers an insight into the personal life of the poet and features some of his original artwork.
Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos: This museum in Santiago is dedicated to preserving the memory of the human rights violations committed during the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet.
Valparaiso: This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts a picturesque harbor, stunning architecture, and a vibrant art scene.

Natural Attractions of Chile: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Torres del Paine National Park: This national park features stunning glaciers, turquoise lakes, and the iconic granite peaks of the Torres del Paine mountain range.
Atacama Desert: Located in the north of Chile, the Atacama Desert is home to unique geological formations, hot springs, and even flamingos.
Easter Island: This remote island is famous for its mysterious moai statues and rich history. Visitors can explore the archaeological sites, go hiking, and enjoy the beautiful beaches.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Chile

The W Trek: A five-day trek in Torres del Paine National Park that takes hikers through some of the most stunning landscapes in Patagonia.
San Pedro de Atacama: A biking tour through the Atacama Desert, featuring stops at the Valle de la Luna, geysers, and hot springs.

Best Things to Do in Chile: Activities and Tours

Wine Tasting in the Central Valley: Chile is known for its fantastic wine, and visitors can take a tour of the wineries in the Central Valley to sample some of the best.
Whale Watching in Chiloe: Take a boat tour around the Chiloe archipelago to see whales, dolphins, and other marine wildlife in their natural habitats.
Skiing in the Andes: Chile’s Andes mountains offer some of the best skiing in South America. Visitors can hit the slopes at resorts such as Portillo and Valle Nevado.

Week-Long Itinerary for Chile

Day	Activity
Day 1	Explore Santiago de Chile, including the downtown area, Cerro San Cristobal and the Mercado Central.
Day 2-4	Visit the Lake District, including Puerto Varas and the nearby Valdivia and Osorno Volcano.
Day 5-7	Head south to Torres del Paine National Park to take on the W trek and see some of the most stunning scenery in South America.

Food and Drink Scene of Chile

Must-Try Dishes

Empanadas: These savory pastries have a variety of fillings and are a popular snack in Chile.
Cazuela: A traditional stew made with beef or chicken, potatoes, pumpkin, and vegetables.
Chilean Seafood: With over 4,000 km of coastline, Chile is known for its delicious seafood dishes such as mariscos al pil pil (shellfish cooked in a chili and garlic sauce) and congrio (a type of eel).

Local Beverages

Pisco Sour: This classic Chilean cocktail is made with pisco (a type of brandy), lime juice, and sugar, shaken with ice and served in a glass.
Chilean Wine: Chilean wine is renowned for its quality, particularly the red wines made from grapes grown in the Central Valley.

Where to Stay in Chile: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Santiago: Some of the best hotels in Santiago include The Aubrey and The Singular Santiago. For budget options, check out Hostel Providencia and Castillo Surfista Hostel.
Valparaiso: Casa Galos Hotel and Lofts and La Joya Hostel are both highly rated options for visitors to Valparaiso.

What to Buy in Chile: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Handicrafts: Chilean handicrafts include woolen clothing and ponchos, pottery, and silver jewelry.
Wine: A bottle or two of Chilean wine is a great souvenir to take home.

Local Culture and Customs of Chile

Chileans are generally friendly and welcoming to visitors. It is customary to greet people with a kiss on the cheek, even if they are meeting for the first time. Chileans are also known for their love of soccer (known as futbol) and music.

Best Time to Visit Chile

The best time to visit Chile depends on the region. The northern part of the country is best visited between April and November, while the central and southern regions are best visited between September and April.

Do’s and Don’ts of Chile

Do:

Drink tap water: Chile has excellent water quality, and tourists can generally drink tap water without any concerns.
Fluent in Spanish: Learning some basic Spanish phrases can help visitors navigate their way around the country and interact better with locals.

Don’t:

Wear flashy jewelry: Although Chile is generally safe, it is best to avoid wearing expensive jewelry or displaying other valuables in public areas to avoid attracting attention.
Disrespect the national flag: Chileans are very proud of their national flag, and any disrespect to it is considered a serious offense.

Safety and Health

Safety in Chile

Chile is generally considered one of the safest countries in South America for travelers, with low levels of crime and violence. However, visitors should still exercise common sense and take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings in crowded or touristy areas.

Health in Chile

Chile has a good public healthcare system, and visitors can access medical treatment if necessary. However, it is still recommended to purchase travel insurance to cover any unforeseen medical expenses.

Getting to Chile: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Chile

Comodoro Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport (Santiago)
Cerro Moreno International Airport (Antofagasta)
Mataveri International Airport (Easter Island)

Bus Stations Near Chile

San Borja Bus Station (Santiago)
Central Bus Station (Valparaiso)
Terminal de Buses de Puerto Montt (Puerto Montt)

Other Options

Chile also has an extensive system of highways and railroads that connect major cities and regions.

How to Get Around in Chile

The most common way to get around Chile is by public transportation, including buses and trains. Taxis are also readily available in major cities. Car rentals are another option, but visitors should be aware of the country’s strict driving laws and road conditions outside of major cities.

Where to Go Next from Chile: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Mendoza, Argentina: Crossing over the Andes Mountains by bus or plane takes visitors to the wine capital of Argentina.
Bolivia: From San Pedro de Atacama, visitors can take a tour across the border to Bolivia and explore the famous Salar de Uyuni and other attractions.

Conclusion

Chile offers a diverse range of attractions, from natural wonders and outdoor activities to cultural experiences and delicious cuisine. With friendly locals and a safe environment, Chile makes for a fantastic destination for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation alike.