Chile, stretching along South America’s Pacific coast, is a country of extraordinary contrasts and natural splendour. From the otherworldly landscapes of the Atacama Desert in the north to the rugged glaciers and fjords of Patagonia in the south, its scenery is as diverse as it is breathtaking. Patagonia, shared with Argentina, is a dream for adventurers and photographers, with its soaring peaks, vast ice fields, and pristine wilderness. In the north, the Atacama Desert, the driest place on Earth, invites travellers to discover its salt flats, geysers, and ancient valleys on hikes and scenic walks. Most journeys through Chile pass through its vibrant capital, Santiago, a dynamic city framed by the Andes that combines modern culture, history, and exceptional food and wine.
Atacama Desert: In northern Chile lies the Atacama, one of the driest places on Earth and home to extraordinary lunar-like landscapes. Travellers can enjoy gentle adventures such as hiking and guided walks through salt flats, canyons, and valleys shaped by wind and time.
Easter Island: Set in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, Easter Island is a fusion of Polynesian and South American influences. Known for its iconic moai statues, the island offers a glimpse into an ancient and mysterious culture. Exploring its rugged coastline, volcanic craters, and archaeological sites reveals the deep history and traditions of this remote Chilean outpost.
Lakes District: Southern Chile’s Lakes District is a region of striking beauty, with clear lakes, snow-capped volcanoes, and lush forests. The area invites exploration by road and water, from the charming island of Chiloé to the scenic Andean lake crossing that connects Chile with Bariloche in Argentina.
Patagonia:Shared by Chile and Argentina, Patagonia is a vast and untamed wilderness of towering mountains, immense glaciers, and serene fjords. Travellers can experience its raw beauty on foot, by vehicle, or aboard a small expedition ship exploring the southernmost reaches of the continent.
Valley of Colchagua: This fertile wine-growing region stretches from the Andes to the Pacific, producing some of Chile’s finest reds, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Carmenère, and Syrah. The valley’s boutique wineries, charming towns, and scenic countryside make it a highlight for wine lovers and those seeking a slower pace amid beautiful surroundings.
Chile’s climate changes dramatically from north to south, making the best time to visit dependent on where you’re headed. In the north and central regions, including the Atacama Desert, days are warm and dry year-round, offering ideal conditions for exploration under almost constant sunshine. The Lakes District and southern Chile are cooler and more humid, with lush landscapes shaped by frequent rainfall. For those venturing to Patagonia, the best time to visit is between October and April, when temperatures are milder and conditions are best for hiking, cruising, and outdoor adventures. Understanding these variations will help you plan your journey to match your interests.
Currency: Chilean Peso (CLP)
Language: Spanish is the official language, while Rapa Nui is spoken on Easter Island and Aymara is used in some northern regions.
What makes it special: Chile’s long, narrow shape gives it incredible natural beauty from the Atacama Desert in the north to the glaciers and fjords of Patagonia in the south. Santiago, the capital, combines European flair with a modern Latin rhythm and serves as the perfect starting point for exploring South America. Not far away, the Colchagua Valley offers some of Chile’s best wine experiences, where boutique vineyards and elegant lodges welcome visitors. The Atacama Desert, centred around San Pedro de Atacama, is one of the country’s standout destinations, offering striking desert landscapes, salt flats, geysers, and star-filled night skies. Chile also provides spectacular routes across the Andes making it easy to link with Argentina for an unforgettable journey. In the far south, Patagonia captivates with glaciers, rugged peaks, and vast wilderness, drawing walkers, photographers, and adventure seekers from around the world.
Social Customs: Chileans are known for their warmth and hospitality, often expressed through food and shared experiences. A traditional asado, or barbecue, brings friends and family together around a fire to enjoy grilled meats, good conversation, and local wines, a custom rooted in the country’s cowboy, or huaso, heritage. Don’t leave without trying a pisco sour, Chile’s national drink, enjoyed throughout the country in both casual and upscale settings.
