Ancud Travel Guide (Chiloé Island/Southern Chile/Chile/South America)

Introduction to Ancud

Nestled in the heart of Chiloé Island in Southern Chile, Ancud is a charming and historic town that offers visitors a delightful mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures.

Ancud boasts a rich history dating back to the 18th century when it served as the colonial capital of Chiloé. The town’s picturesque setting and tranquil atmosphere make it a popular getaway for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

In this comprehensive guide, we will take you on a tour of the top attractions, activities, and cultural experiences that Ancud has to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Ancud

Whether you’re interested in exploring the town’s history, taking in the breathtaking scenery, or trying out outdoor sports, you’ll find plenty of exciting things to do in Ancud.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Ancud is home to many museums and historic landmarks that provide insight into the town’s fascinating past. These attractions include:

Fort San Antonio: Built in the 18th century to protect against English and Dutch invasions, this fort is now a museum that showcases the history of the Chiloé archipelago and the region’s indigenous peoples.
Ancud Regional Museum: Exhibits at this museum provide an overview of the area’s history, including exhibits on the natural history, indigenous cultures, and the Spanish colonization of the region.
Iglesia San Francisco: This beautiful 19th-century church is an excellent example of wooden architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Natural Attractions of Ancud: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Ancud’s stunning natural scenery offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure and relaxation. Here are some of the top sights and activities:

Pumillahue Beach: This sandy beach is a popular spot for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing.
Chepu River: Explore the area’s rich flora and fauna by kayaking or fishing on the Chepu River, which meanders through the beautiful Chiloe National Park.
Huentemo Natural Reserve: This protected area features several beautiful hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the island’s pristine forests and coastline.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ancud

Ancud is a hiker’s paradise, offering many challenging trails that wind through the island’s mountains and forests.

Sendero Lahuen Ñadi: This 4.7-kilometer trail is an easy hike that takes you through a lush forest and offers stunning views of the ocean.
Parque Tantauco: This remote national park, located on the southern tip of Chiloé Island, offers several hiking and biking trails that take visitors through beautiful forests and landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Ancud: Activities and Tours

Ancud offers visitors a wide range of activities and tours to choose from, catering to all tastes and interests. Here are some of the top experiences that you should not miss:

Whale Watching: From early December to mid-March, you can watch some of the world’s largest mammals - whales - swimming near Ancud. Take a guided boat tour to get up close to these magnificent creatures.
Culinary Tours: Sample the local seafood, traditional Chilote cuisine, and indigenous products with a culinary tour that includes visits to local markets and seafood restaurants.
Birdwatching: Bird lovers will enjoy exploring the many beaches and forests of Chiloé Island, where they can spot an impressive array of bird species, including the elegant black-necked swan and the endangered Magellanic penguin.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ancud

To make the most of your time in Ancud, we recommend a week-long itinerary that includes the following highlights:

Day 1: Arrive in Ancud and explore the town’s historic landmarks, such as Fort San Antonio and the Ancud Regional Museum.
Day 2: Take a guided tour to Puñihuil Beach’s islets - Roca Negra and Los Pingüinos to watch the Magellanic and Humboldt Penguins up close.
Day 3: Take a hike in the Huentemo Natural Reserve to see some of the island’s unique flora and fauna.
Day 4: Visit the Chiloe National Park and explore its stunning landscapes.
Day 5: Head to the southern end of the island to visit Parque Tantauco and take a boat tour of its pristine lakes and forests.
Day 6: Take a whale watching tour and watch these magnificent animals swimming near Ancud.
Day 7: Enjoy a relaxing day on the beach and savour some of the delicious seafood that Ancud has to offer.

Food and Drink Scene of Ancud

Ancud has a rich culinary tradition that blends indigenous, Spanish, and more recent immigrant influences. Seafood plays a prominent role in the local cuisine, with fresh seafood dishes available at many local restaurants and markets.

Must-Try Dishes

Here are some of the local delicacies that you should try during your visit to Ancud:

Curanto: This traditional dish consists of meat, vegetables, and seafood cooked in a pit oven.
Chochoca: A type of porridge made from toasted wheat flour.
Pulmay: A dish made from seafood, vegetables, and potatoes, cooked in a pot on an open fire.

Local Beverages

Chilote cuisine is typically accompanied by local wines, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages:

Chicha: A traditional non-alcoholic drink made from fermented corn or other grains.
Cerveza Austral: A popular local beer brewed on Chiloé Island itself, featuring unique flavours and aromas from the region’s indigenous ingredients.

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

Ancud has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of the best options:

Tierra Chiloe: A luxurious eco-hotel located on a hill overlooking the sea. Their culinary program focuses on local, seasonal ingredients.
Hospedaje Entretenido: A budget-friendly hostel with comfortable rooms and a friendly staff, conveniently located in the heart of Ancud.
Hostal Austral: A charming guesthouse with cozy rooms and a charming garden, ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway.

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

Ancud is known for its unique handicrafts and artisanal products, making it the perfect place to pick up souvenirs and gifts for friends and family. The best local products to buy include:

Woollen Garments: Made from locally sourced wool, these warm and stylish garments are a must-buy in Ancud.
Wooden Handicrafts: The area is famous for its intricate woodcarvings, which make great gifts or souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Ancud

Ancud embraces its cultural heritage and prides itself on its traditions and customs. The people of Ancud are warm and friendly, and visitors can enjoy a true taste of Chilote life by participating in local festivals, such as the Festival of the Sea, or by attending traditional ceremonies and performances.

Best Time to Visit Ancud

The best time to visit Ancud is during the summer months (December to March), when the weather is warm and sunny, and there are many outdoor activities and events to enjoy. However, Ancud is beautiful all year round, so visitors can enjoy its charms whatever the season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ancud

When visiting Ancud, keep the following guidelines in mind:

Do:

Try the local seafood and traditional Chilote cuisine.
Respect the local culture and customs.
Take a guided tour to learn more about the area’s history and natural beauty.

Don’t:

Litter or damage the natural environment.
Speak loudly or disrespectfully in public places.
Ignore the safety rules and recommendations of local tour operators.

Safety and Health

Ancud is generally a very safe destination, although visitors should take some precautions to stay safe and healthy while exploring the area.

Safety in Ancud

Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night in less-frequented areas.
Always lock your doors and windows when leaving your accommodation.
Use official tour operators for guided activities and avoid unmarked or suspicious-looking tour providers.

Health in Ancud

Visitors to Ancud should take normal health precautions, such as drinking bottled water and wearing mosquito repellent when outdoors.

Medical facilities on Chiloé Island are generally of a good standard, although visitors with serious medical conditions or emergencies may need to be evacuated to the mainland for treatment.

Getting to Ancud: Transportation Options and Logistics

It’s easy to get to Ancud from other parts of Chile with several travel options.

Airports Near Ancud

The closest airport to Ancud is Mocopulli Airport, which operates daily flights from Santiago and other major Chilean cities.

Bus Stations Near Ancud

Buses to Ancud depart regularly from nearby cities such as Castro, Chonchi, and Puerto Montt, making it an easy and affordable way to reach the town.

Other Options

There are no roads that connect with mainland Chile to Chiloé Island. However, you can take a regular passenger ferry from Pargua, around 30 minutes’ drive from Puerto Montt, to Chacao.

How to Get Around in Ancud

Ancud is a small town that can be easily explored on foot or by renting a bicycle. Taxis, buses, and rental cars are also available for visitors who prefer not to walk or bike.

Where to Go Next from Ancud: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Ancud is an excellent base for exploring the Chiloé archipelago and beyond. Some of the best nearby destinations and excursions include:

Castro: The island’s second-largest city is famous for its colorful palafitos (stilt houses) and vibrant cultural scene.
Puñihuil Beach: This rugged and scenic coastline provides an excellent place for a day trip to visit the penguins.
Chiloé National Park: Just south of Ancud, this stunning national park is full of hiking trails to explore.

Conclusion

Ancud is an enchanting and diverse destination that offers visitors an unrivaled combination of natural beauty, history, and culture. Whether you’re a history buff, an avid outdoorsman, or a food lover looking to sample the local cuisine, Ancud has something to offer every traveler. With this comprehensive guide, you’re sure to have a great time exploring all that this unique destination has to offer.

Ancud Image Gallery

Ancud Chiloe Island

View of the battery of San Antonio

Harbour