Chiloé Island Travel Guide

Discover the natural wonders and cultural treasures of Chiloé Island with this comprehensive tour guide. Learn about the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Chiloé Island

Located off the coast of Southern Chile, Chiloé Island is a unique destination that offers a fascinating blend of nature, culture, and history. Known for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed churches, colorful houses, and ancient folklore, Chiloé is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the rich diversity of Chile.

List of Places to Visit in Chiloé Island

* Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Chiloé Island is renowned for its distinctive architecture, which reflects a fascinating mix of Spanish and native traditions. Some of the must-see cultural landmarks on the island include:

- The Churches of Chiloé

The 16 historic wooden churches of Chiloé are a UNESCO World Heritage site. These churches were built by Jesuit and Franciscan missionaries in the 17th and 18th centuries and feature a unique blending of European and indigenous architecture. Don’t miss the iconic Nercón Church, which sits on stilts over the water.

- Museo Regional de Ancud

Located in the charming town of Ancud, this museum features exhibits on Chilean and Chiloéan history, culture, and nature. The museum’s most famous exhibit is a preserved blue whale skeleton.

* Natural Attractions of Chiloé Island: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

From turquoise lakes to misty forests, Chiloé Island is a true natural paradise. Here are some of the nature sites you don’t want to miss:

- Chiloé National Park

Chiloé National Park is a 43,057 acre park filled with old-growth forests, wetlands, and coastline. Visitors can enjoy trekking, kayaking, and birdwatching while surrounded by the stunning scenery of Chiloé.

- Pumalín Park

This protected area is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Visitors can hike through lush forests, kayak through fjords, or even soak in volcanic hot springs.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Chiloé Island

For the adventurous, Chiloé Island offers a wealth of hiking and biking trails. Here are some of the best routes to take:

  • Ruta de las Iglesias: This 18-mile route takes you through some of the island’s historic wooden churches, providing a unique glimpse into the architecture and culture of Chiloé.

  • Sendero los Pingüinos: This 4-mile trail takes you to a penguin colony, where you can watch these adorable creatures in their natural habitat.

Best Things to Do in Chiloé Island: Activities and Tours

There are numerous activities and tours on offer for visitors to Chiloé Island. Here are some of the most popular:

  • Chiloé Island Cultural Tour: This tour takes you through the historic churches, colorful buildings, and beautiful landscapes of Chiloé Island, providing a unique and immersive introduction to the culture and history of the region.

  • Dalcahue Market Tour: Dalcahue is famous for its traditional market, where you can pick up anything from fresh seafood to handmade textiles.

Week-Long Itinerary for Chiloé Island

If you’re planning to spend a week on Chiloé Island, here’s a suggested itinerary to make the most of your time:

  • Day 1: Arrive in Castro, the capital city of Chiloé, and explore the colorful houses and famous wooden stilt houses.
  • Day 2: Take a tour of the historic wooden churches of Chiloé and visit the Nercón Church.
  • Day 3-4: Go trekking in Chiloé National Park or kayak around the stunning coastline.
  • Day 5: Visit the Dalcahue Market and sample some local Chiloéan cuisine.
  • Day 6-7: Visit Pumalín Park and spend time relaxing in the natural hot springs.

Food and Drink Scene of Chiloé Island

* Must-Try Dishes

Chiloéan cuisine is a unique blend of Spanish and indigenous flavors. Here are some dishes you must try when visiting:

  • Curanto: A traditional Chiloéan dish featuring shellfish, meat, and potato cooked in a hole in the ground.
  • Chapalele: A type of potato cake made with pork rinds and boiled potatoes.
  • Milcao: A type of potato pancake filled with pork rinds or cheese.

* Local Beverages

Chiloéan cuisine is often accompanied by local drinks such as:

  • Mote con huesillo: A sweet drink made with cooked husked wheat and peaches.
  • Licor de Oro: A locally made liquor made with lemon and cinnamon.

Where to Stay in Chiloé Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel or a budget hostel, Chiloé Island offers a range of accommodations to suit every style and budget. Here are some of the best:

  • Palafito 1326 Hotel: Situated over the water in Castro, this luxury hotel offers stunning views and beautifully designed rooms.
  • Hospedaje Maria Victoria: This cozy guesthouse offers affordable rooms in the heart of Ancud.
  • Hostal Y Turismo Cordillera: A budget-friendly hostel located in the town of Quellón.

What to Buy in Chiloé Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some souvenirs and local products to look out for on Chiloé Island include:

  • Handcrafted woolen blankets and shawls.
  • Traditional wooden crafts, such as bowls and figurines.
  • Local spices and seasonings, such as merkén and curanto.

Local Culture and Customs of Chiloé Island

Chiloé is known for its strong cultural heritage, which can be seen in the unique architecture, traditions, and folklore of the island. Some local customs and traditions to look out for include:

  • The Chiloéan myth of Trauco, a supernatural being who is said to seduce young women.
  • The colorful, traditional woven woolen clothing worn by Chiloéan women.
  • The distinctive wooden stilt houses that dot the coastline of Chiloé.

Best Time to Visit Chiloé Island

The best time to visit Chiloé is during the summer months, from December to February, when temperatures are mild and the weather is generally dry.

############ Do:’s and Don’ts of Chiloé Island

* Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine and beverages, especially the traditional curanto and chapalele.
  • Do visit the historic wooden churches of Chiloé, which are an iconic part of the island’s cultural heritage.
  • Do take advantage of the hiking and biking trails in Chiloé National Park, which offer stunning views of the island’s natural beauty.

* Don’t:

  • Don’t disrespect local customs or traditions, such as wearing inappropriate clothing when visiting a church.
  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment while exploring the island.
  • Don’t forget to bring warm clothing, as the weather in Chiloé can be chilly even during the summer months.

Safety and Health

* Safety in Chiloé Island

Chiloé Island is generally a safe destination, but visitors should take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Some safety tips to keep in mind include:

  • Stay alert when walking around at night and stick to well-lit areas.
  • Avoid leaving valuables unattended.
  • Beware of pickpockets in crowded areas, such as marketplaces or festivals.

* Health in Chiloé Island

There are no significant health risks on Chiloé Island, but visitors should take standard precautions such as:

  • Drinking bottled or purified water to avoid stomach illnesses.
  • Using mosquito repellent during the summer months to avoid insect bites.

Getting to Chiloé Island: Transportation Options and Logistics

* Airports Near Chiloé Island

The nearest airports to Chiloé Island are:

  • Balmaceda Airport in Coyhaique, located approximately 300 miles southeast of Chiloé.
  • El Tepual Airport in Puerto Montt, located approximately 170 miles north of Chiloé.

* Bus Stations Near Chiloé Island

There are daily bus services to Chiloé Island from major cities in Chile, including Puerto Montt, Valdivia, and Osorno.

* Other Options

Visitors can also reach Chiloé Island via ferry service from Puerto Montt or by driving across the Chacao Channel Bridge from the mainland.

How to Get Around in Chiloé Island

There are public buses and taxis available on Chiloé Island, but renting a car or bike is the best way to explore the island at your own pace.

Where to Go Next from Chiloé Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Chiloé Island, visitors can head to other destinations in Chile, such as Puerto Varas, the Lake District, or Santiago.

Conclusion

Chiloé Island is a truly unique destination that offers a wealth of natural and cultural treasures. From its historic wooden churches to its stunning national parks and delicious local cuisine, Chiloé is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the beauty and diversity of Chile.

Tenaun church Tenaun church


    Ancud
    Castro
    Chiloé National Park