Southern Chile Travel Guide

Plan the ultimate trip to Southern Chile with our travel guide. Discover the best attractions, food, accommodations, and more in this stunning region of South America.


Introduction to Southern Chile

Southern Chile is a region of incredible beauty, culture, and adventure. Situated in the southernmost part of Chile, this region is known for its awe-inspiring landscapes, ancient forests, remote islands, and friendly locals.

Whether you’re into hiking, skiing, exploring museums and historical sites, or simply enjoying a glass of wine with stunning views, Southern Chile has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we’ll cover all the things you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip to this incredible region.

List of Places to Visit in Southern Chile

Are you wondering where to go in Southern Chile? Here are some of the top destinations that you won’t want to miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo Mapuche in Temuco, a museum dedicated to the indigenous Mapuche people and their history, art, and culture.
  • Chiloé Archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colorful wooden churches, traditional architecture, and folk legends.
  • Punta Arenas Cemetery in Punta Arenas, an interesting and beautiful place to learn about the history and culture of Southern Chileans.

Natural Attractions of Southern Chile: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Torres del Paine National Park, one of the most beautiful and visited parks in South America, with its striking granite peaks, clear lakes, and glaciers.
  • Lake Todos los Santos in Puerto Varas, a stunning glacial lake surrounded by forested hills and pristine wilderness.
  • Hornopirén National Park, a remote and less crowded park with diverse landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, coastal forests, and hot springs.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southern Chile

For those looking for adventure, Southern Chile offers a variety of hiking and biking trails that showcase the stunning natural landscapes of the region. Here are some of the best routes to consider:

  • W Circuit in Torres del Paine National Park, a challenging but rewarding hiking trail that takes you past the stunning glaciers, lakes, and mountains of Patagonia.
  • Cerro Castillo near Coyhaique, a mountain that offers a challenging but unforgettable hiking experience with stunning views of glacier valleys and vast landscapes.
  • Villarrica Volcano near Pucón, an active volcano that offers a challenging but thrilling hiking experience with incredible views of the surrounding National Park.

Best Things to Do in Southern Chile: Activities and Tours

Southern Chile offers a wealth of activities and tours for travelers of all tastes and interests. Here are some of the best things to do in Southern Chile:

  • Whale watching in Chiloé or Puerto Varas, where you’ll have the opportunity to see magnificent humpback whales migrating along the coast.
  • Skiing in Corralco, one of the best ski resorts in the South Hemisphere, with its powder snow and breathtaking views of the volcanoes and the lake.
  • Wine tasting in the Casablanca or Colchagua Valley, where you can taste some of the best wines of Chile, accompanied by delicious local food.

Week-Long Itinerary for Southern Chile

If you have a week to explore Southern Chile, here is a suggested itinerary to make the most of your time:

Day Destination Activity
1 Temuco Visit the Museo Mapuche and explore the city center.
2 Pucón Hike the Villarrica Volcano and relax in the hot springs.
3 Valdivia Visit the city’s market, riverside promenade, and historic fort.
4 Puerto Varas and Osorno Take a scenic drive around the Lake District and visit a ranch.
5 Chiloé Archipelago Explore the stunning wooden churches and traditional culture.
6 Coyhaique Go hiking in Cerro Castillo National Park.
7 Torres del Paine National Park Hike or camp on the famous W Circuit Trail.

Food and Drink Scene of Southern Chile

Southern Chile has a rich culinary scene that is a combination of indigenous, Spanish, and European influences. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Curanto, a traditional feast of seafood, meat, and vegetables cooked in a pit oven in Chiloé.
  • Completos, Chilean style hot dogs, with tomatoes, avocado, and mayonnaise, found throughout the region.
  • Asado al palo, a Patagonian specialty of slow-cooked lamb or beef cooked over open flames.

Local Beverages

  • Pisco sour, a refreshing cocktail made with pisco, lemon juice, sugar, and egg white.
  • Mote con huesillo, a sweet and refreshing drink made with a traditional husked wheat, accompanied by dried peaches.

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

Southern Chile offers excellent accommodation options for every budget and style. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Hotel Enjoy in Puerto Varas, a luxurious hotel with stunning views of the lake and volcanoes.
  • Hostel Casa Margouya in Coyhaique, a cozy and friendly hostel with comfortable rooms and a great location.
  • Parque Patagonia Lodge in Cochrane, a rustic-chic eco-lodge located inside a nature reserve.

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

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring home, consider the following:

  • Handicrafts, such as wool clothing, pottery, and wood carvings, found in markets and shops throughout the region.
  • Chilean wine, especially those from the Colchagua and Casablanca valleys, which are some of the best in the country.
  • Seafood, like salmon, king crab, and oysters from the Pacific Ocean, which are fresh and delicious.

Local Culture and Customs of Southern Chile

Southern Chile has a rich and diverse cultural heritage that is deeply intertwined with nature and agriculture. The Mapuche culture is particularly prominent in Southern Chile, with its traditional food, music, and crafts.

The locals in Southern Chile are generally friendly and welcoming, and it’s common to greet people with a kiss on the cheek as a sign of friendship and respect. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated, with around 10% being the norm.

Best Time to Visit Southern Chile

The best time to visit Southern Chile depends on your interests and activities. If you’re into winter sports, the ski season runs from June to September, while the hiking and trekking season is from November to March. Summer is also a great time to enjoy the beaches, lakes, and outdoor activities in Southern Chile.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southern Chile

To make the most of your trip to Southern Chile, here are some essential do’s and don’ts:

Do:

  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases before you go, as English is not widely spoken outside the main tourist areas.
  • Respect the natural environment and the local culture, including the customs and traditions of the Mapuche people.
  • Try the local food and drink, such as curanto, pisco sour, and Chilean wine.

Don’t:

  • Assume that all Chileans are the same or know how to dance the “Cueca,” the traditional Chilean dance.
  • Leave your valuables unattended or your backpacks open while in crowded places.
  • Ignore the weather or dress inappropriately for the activities you are doing. Bring layers and waterproof clothing in case of rain.

Safety and Health

Southern Chile is a safe and clean region, but it’s always best to take some precautions to stay healthy and safe while traveling. Here are some tips:

Safety in Southern Chile

  • Avoid walking alone at night or in dark areas.
  • Always carry some cash with you but don’t carry large amounts of money or flashy jewelry.
  • Keep your passport and other important documents in a safe place.

Health in Southern Chile

  • Drink only bottled or boiled water and avoid uncooked / wash your fruits and vegetables in disinfected water to avoid waterborne illnesses.
  • Be aware of altitude sickness and acclimatize slowly if visiting high altitude areas like the Villarrica Volcano.
  • Use sunscreen and insect repellent to avoid sunburn and insect bites.

Getting to Southern Chile: Transportation Options and Logistics

Southern Chile is not the easiest region to get to, but there are several transportation options depending on where you’re coming from and where you want to go.

Airports Near Southern Chile

The main airports serving Southern Chile are:

  • Temuco airport, for the Lake District and Araucania regions.
  • Puerto Montt airport, for the Lake District and Chiloé Archipelago.
  • Punta Arenas airport, for Patagonia and Torres del Paine National Park.

Bus Stations Near Southern Chile

Major Bus terminals in Southern Chile are:

  • Terminal Sur in Santiago, the main bus terminal for southern destinations.
  • Terminal Collao in Concepción, for destinations in the Lake District and Araucania regions.
  • Terminal Municipal in Punta Arenas, for destinations in Patagonia.

Other Options

If you’re coming from Argentina, you can cross the border by car or bus at several locations, including:

  • Paso Cardenal Samore near Puyehue National Park, an international pass between Argentina and Chile.
  • Paso Huemules near Futaleufú, another international pass between Argentina and Chile.

How to Get Around in Southern Chile

The best way to get around Southern Chile depends on your budget and travel style. Here are some options:

  • Buses, the most common and affordable option, with several companies serving different routes throughout the region.
  • Car rental, a more flexible but more expensive option, especially if you plan on exploring remote areas.
  • Taxis and shared taxis, a convenient but pricier option, with options for ridesharing available in some areas.

Where to Go Next from Southern Chile: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have extra time after exploring Southern Chile, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • San Carlos de Bariloche in Argentina, a beautiful lake resort town near the Andes Mountains.
  • Puerto Natales and El Calafate in Argentina, two popular destinations near Torres del Paine National Park.
  • Isla Navarino near Puerto Williams, the most southern populated island in Chile or Tierra de Fuego and Cape Horn.

Conclusion

Southern Chile is a captivating and diverse region that offers something for everyone. From the awe-inspiring landscapes of Patagonia to the rich cultural heritage of the Mapuche people, this region of South America is a must-visit destination for any adventurous traveler. With this travel guide, you’re well-equipped to plan and enjoy an unforgettable trip to Southern Chile.



    Araucanía
    Biobío
    Chiloé Island
    Los Lagos
    Los Ríos