The secret’s almost out. Boasting some of the planet’s most diverse and remote landscapes—and an up-and-coming capital—Chile is becoming an increasingly popular travel destination. We’ve listed the country’s top highlights with alternative ideas on how to skip the still-manageable, yet swelling crowds. Read on to learn more.
## Santiago: A Deeper Dive into Chile’s Capital
Santiago, the vibrant and multifaceted capital of Chile, pulsates with an energy that is both captivating and unique. As the home to approximately 40% of the Chilean population, Santiago is not only the country’s largest city but also its cultural and economic heart. The city is rapidly gaining recognition on the world stage, attracting increasing attention from the travel industry. This growing appeal, combined with the breathtaking panorama of the Andes Mountains that forms a stunning backdrop, is drawing a surge of tourists eager to explore all that Santiago has to offer.
For those embarking on their first journey to Santiago, certain landmarks are essential starting points, the places that capture the essence of the city’s history and spirit. Ascending Cerro San Cristobal, either by a leisurely gondola ride offering panoramic views or a more invigorating hike through its verdant slopes, is a must. The summit provides an unparalleled perspective of the sprawling cityscape and the majestic Andes. The opulent Palacio de la Moneda, Chile’s presidential palace, stands as a symbol of the nation’s political history and architectural grandeur. A visit to Plaza de Armas, the historic heart of Santiago, is like stepping back in time. This central square, dating back to 1541, is a testament to the city’s rich colonial past, surrounded by significant historical buildings and offering a vibrant atmosphere filled with locals and visitors alike. Food enthusiasts will find themselves drawn to the bustling Mercado Central, a culinary paradise. During lunchtime, this vibrant market comes alive with a symphony of sights, sounds, and aromas. Here, one can indulge in a delectable array of fresh seafood, including sea urchins, octopus, razor clams, and the quintessential Chilean dish, ceviche.
Venture beyond the well-trodden paths, and you will discover a side of Santiago that resonates with the soul of the city. To truly experience Santiago, follow the lead of the locals and delve into the rapidly evolving neighborhoods that lie outside the city center. Each of these *barrios* possesses its own distinct personality, charm, and character, offering a unique glimpse into the diverse tapestry of Santiago’s urban landscape. Exploring these neighborhoods is best accomplished on foot, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in their vibrant atmosphere. Alternatively, Santiago’s efficient underground railway system provides a convenient and cost-effective means of navigating the city and accessing these hidden gems.
The neighborhoods of Brasil and Bellavista beckon with their trendy and vibrant restaurant scenes. Here, sidewalk cafes spill onto the streets, offering the perfect setting to savor a delicious meal while soaking in the lively ambiance. Wine bars invite you to sample Chile’s renowned wines, while beer halls offer a taste of the local craft beer scene. Barrio Italia, a historic neighborhood brimming with artistic energy, is a haven for art lovers and boutique shoppers. Local art galleries showcase the talents of Chilean artists, while boutique shops offer unique and handcrafted treasures. Barrio Yungay, a neighborhood favored by backpackers, exudes a bohemian spirit with its dive bars, colorful street art, and the Nave cultural center, a hub for artistic expression and cultural events.
In Barrio Lastarria, one could easily while away an entire afternoon at the Gabriela Mistral Centre, a cultural institution offering a diverse range of affordable live performances, film screenings, and the Museum of Popular American Art, which offers free admission on the lower level. The center’s inviting café provides a relaxing spot to sip coffee and observe the world unfolding around you.
Before concluding your Santiago adventure, take the opportunity to acquire unique souvenirs at Los Dominicos Handicraft Village. This enchanting village, nestled within the grounds of a former monastery, is a treasure trove of handcrafted goods. Explore the workshops and discover jewelry adorned with Andean gemstones, ceramic tableware, and textiles crafted from natural fibers. While browsing, indulge in a delicious empanada from one of the local stands, a perfect way to savor the flavors of Chile.
## Torres del Paine National Park: Beyond the Iconic Towers
Torres del Paine National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a destination that needs no introduction. Renowned as one of the world’s premier hiking destinations, this Patagonian paradise is a magnet for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. The park’s breathtaking landscape is characterized by towering granite peaks, glistening glaciers, and turquoise lakes that mirror the sky. Abundant wildlife, including guanacos and elusive pumas, adds to the park’s allure. Despite its status as one of South America’s most beloved natural wonders, Torres del Paine National Park remains relatively undisturbed, largely due to its remote location in Patagonia and the limited availability of lodging. This ensures that visitors can experience the park’s pristine beauty without the overwhelming crowds often found at other popular destinations like Machu Picchu.
But how can you elevate your experience in this awe-inspiring landscape, venturing beyond the typical tourist trails traversed by the approximately 150,000 annual visitors? The iconic granite spires of Las Torres are undoubtedly the park’s main draw, captivating visitors with their imposing presence. While many opt for a day hike to the base of the towers, or embark on the popular five-day “W” route, a more immersive and rewarding experience awaits those who venture further afield. The challenging “O” circuit offers a chance to escape the crowds and explore the remote backside of Torres del Paine, immersing yourself in the park’s untouched wilderness.
For a truly unique adventure, consider a six-day tour through the Zapata Valley, a hidden gem within Torres del Paine National Park. This valley, home to hidden canyons and valleys, provides a glimpse into Patagonia’s prehistoric past, as paleontology is still very much alive. Far removed from the park’s more frequented trails, this trek offers a remote camping experience, bringing you closer to lesser-known glaciers and the vast Southern Patagonia Ice Field.
For a more leisurely and luxurious experience, forgo the shelters and campgrounds, which often require advance booking, and reserve a stay at the innovative EcoCamp Patagonia. This eco-friendly accommodation provides a comfortable base for well-organized day excursions, complemented by exquisite food and wine.
## Wine Country: Beyond the Vineyards, a Sensory Journey
Chile’s unique geography, framed by the impossibly long Pacific coastline to the west and the jagged Andean mountain range to the east, creates an unparalleled terroir for winemaking. The Spaniards first cultivated vineyards here in the mid-16th century, and today Chile stands as one of the world’s largest and most esteemed wine producers.
No visit to Chile would be complete without immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of varietals that originate from these Chilean wine valleys. Most visitors gravitate towards the prestigious wineries located outside of Santiago, which offer convenient day-trip options, particularly in the Maipo Valley and Casablanca Valley. Consider extending your stay by spending a night at one of the vineyards, allowing you to fully embrace the valley’s tranquility after the day-trippers have returned to Santiago.
For those who wish to delve deeper into the world of Chilean wine, the Colchagua Valley beckons. Often regarded as Chile’s premier wine region, it presents an ideal destination for a two or three-night stay. Here, the valley’s granitic and volcanic soils harmonize with an arid Mediterranean climate, resulting in a slower ripening process for the grapes. The consistently warm temperatures in Colchagua are perfectly suited for red wine grapes, giving rise to an organic red wine industry celebrated for its berry and tobacco notes. The valley’s picturesque landscapes unfold with endless sunny vistas, lush green vegetation, and dramatic mountain views.
Travelers seeking a more authentic experience can participate in the harvest festival, an annual celebration in each valley that is seldom attended by foreign visitors. Select vineyards also offer opportunities to work during the harvest season, transforming a simple tasting into an immersive and unforgettable experience.
## Easter Island: Beyond the Moai, an Island of Mysteries
Easter Island, a minuscule speck in the vastness of the South Pacific Ocean, is often lauded as the most isolated inhabited place on Earth. The island’s iconic moai, hundreds of enigmatic stone statues scattered across the landscape, are the primary attraction, often overlooking the ruins of the settlements that created them. Most visitors dedicate a few days to guided tours and excursions, complemented by some relaxation on one of the island’s two beaches, with Anakena being the most popular.
But there is more to Easter Island than meets the eye. For a different perspective, consider exploring the island by bicycle and taking advantage of the pristine waters for scuba diving. Cycling on this remote Chilean territory offers a rewarding alternative to organized tours, allowing you to discover hidden corners and encounter a sense of solitude. Bike rentals are readily available along the main street, Hanga Roa, but ensure you test the bike before embarking on a longer journey. While most roads are paved, exercise caution when it rains, as conditions can become slippery.
Easter Island stands out as an exceptional scuba diving destination, boasting unparalleled water clarity due to the absence of pollution and algae. Numerous diving spots around the island teem with undisturbed marine life, presenting a captivating underwater world to explore. Several scuba diving centers in the town of Hanga Roa adhere to official PADI rules and safety protocols, ensuring a safe and memorable diving experience.
## Atacama Desert: Beyond the Dryness, an Oasis of Wonder
The Atacama Desert, the driest place on Earth, is a realm of dramatic landscapes, including red canyons, rocky valleys, gorges, thermal lakes, and geysers. This otherworldly region of Chile is capturing the imaginations of more travelers each year, as people search for ways to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature’s raw beauty.
While many visitors opt for a brief day trip, those who wish to fully immerse themselves in the Atacama Desert will find a haven in San Pedro de Atacama. This charming adobe town has long been a favored destination for backpackers and bohemian spirits who recognized its allure long before the concept of “unplugging” became popular. Today, in addition to the town’s small hotels and cozy restaurants, a selection of more luxurious options are available.
Regardless of your accommodation choice, the night skies in the Atacama Desert are an unmissable spectacle. Join an expert-led astronomical tour and visit a well-equipped observatory to witness the celestial wonders that unfold above. During the day, embark on captivating excursions from San Pedro. Visit the Tatio Geysers early in the morning to witness the steam plumes rising before the temperatures climb. After lunch, when the sun’s intensity has waned, venture to the Valley of the Moon and the Valley of Death to witness the mesmerizing sunset.
For a truly unique adventure, consider combining your Atacama Desert experience with a trip to the Salir de Uyuni (salt flats) across the border in Bolivia.
## The Lake District: Beyond the Tourist Trail, a Symphony of Nature
Chile’s Lake District experiences peak crowds during the summer months, as locals flock to the region’s evergreen forests, deep-blue mountain lakes, and snow-capped volcanoes. Many visitors choose to stay in Puerto Montt, the region’s commercial and transportation hub, where Osorno Volcano meets the shores of Llanquihue Lake. This is also the starting and ending point for most volcano tours.
But the Lake District has secrets to share with those who venture off the beaten path. A little-known volcano option awaits adventurous hikers: the El Solitario trail. This hiking excursion traverses a significant portion of the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, from the lava-formed waterfalls of the Petrohué River to the slopes of the iconic Osorno Volcano. This trek is an excellent choice for photographers and hikers who wish to explore the park at their own pace, without the pressure of time constraints.
While in Puerto Montt, be sure to visit one of the traditional German-style breweries, a testament to the German immigrants who arrived in the region in the 1850s. Sign up for a tour and tasting to fully immerse yourself in the brewing process and sample the local flavors. Alternatively, rent a car and embark on a day trip to Bariloche, on the Argentine side of the Andes, where a wealth of outdoor activities awaits.
B-302