Comprehensive Travel Guide and Travel Blog on Chile, South America

Chile Travel Guide

Chile is a stunning country that leaves a lasting impression with its breathtaking landscapes. In particular, the unique wildlife and beautiful lagoons in the dry Atacama Desert in Chile really stand out. If you’re planning a trip, this Chile travel guide covers everything you need to know before you go.

South America: Comprehensive Chile Travel Guide and Travel Blog

Things to know before You travel to Chile

  • Language: Spanish is the official language in Chile, but the Chilean Spanish has a unique slang and accent.
  • Currency: Chilean Peso (CLP) is the official currency.
  • Visas: Citizens from the U.S., Canada, EU, Australia and most Latin American countries don’t require a visa for stays up to 90 days.
  • Time Zones: Chile follows Chile Standard Time and the daylight saving time. Chile is 1 hour ahead of Bolivia and 2 hours ahead of Peru.
  • Travel Insurance: I highly recommend having a travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, accidents and trip cancellations. I used TrueTraveller but it’s only available to EU residents.
  • Mobile: Buy a local SIM card at the airport, mobile stores on convenience stores.
  • Plugs: The most common plug types are Type C and L, but I highly recommend getting a universal adaptor.
  • Transportation: Renting a car is an excellent idea if you plan to travel to Patagonia, Atacama Desert or the Lake District. For longer distances, I recommend taking a domestic flight to save some time. Alternatively, you can rely on tour buses to reach the main attractions.
  • Accommodation: Depending on the region and your budget, you can find high-end hotels, budget hostels or eco-lodges. Make sure to book early if you’re traveling during the peak season, between December and February.
  • Tipping: Appreciated but not mandatory.
  • Must-try food: One of my favorite Chilean dishes are the empanadas, but I’d also recommend trying curanto (seafood dish) and fresh seafood.

The Best Time to Visit CHILE

Chile is a long and narrow country that stretches from the Atacama Desert in the northern Chile to Patagonia in the south. As you might imagine, this translates into a wide range of climates.

Generally, the best months to travel to Chile are between December and March (summer), especially for trekking in Patagonia and enjoying the coastal regions.

Opt for the shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and mild temperatures. If you’re visiting the Atacama Desert in Chile, the best time is in spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). But, if you want to hit the slopes in the Andean mountains, you’ll want to visit between June and August.

Chile Travel Guide: Best places to visit

  • Atacama Desert (North of Chile): is the driest desert in the world. In fact, it’s surrounded by volcanoes, salt flats and is a perfect opportunities for stargazing. Some of the highlights in this region include Valle de la Luna, Cerro Toco, Pietras Rojas y Lagunas Altiplanicas, El Tatio Geysers and much more. This is definitely one of my favorite spots to add to your ultimate Chile travel guide.
  • Santiago (Central Chile): is the capital of Chile and is a bustling city surrounded by the majestic Andes Mountains.
  • Valparaiso (Central Chile): is a beautiful, colorful coastal city as well as a UNESCO World Heritage site in close proximity to Santiago. It is mainly known for its steep hills and vibrant street art.
  • Patagonia (South of Chile): is a stunningly beautiful region in the far south of Chile. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, especially for those into hiking. The main highlight is Torres del Paine National Park, where you can embark on the W Trek, explore the Grey Glacier by boat or spot wildlife. A must-add to your Chile travel guide!
  • Chiloe Island (South of Chile): here you can do anything from admiring the stunning architecture to exploring the coastal hiking routes. Additionally, you can spot several colonies of penguins, which are this island’s residents.
  • Lake District (South of Chile): is perfect for hiking, kayaking and skiing in the winter months. In fact, its vicinity to pristine lakes and snow-capped volcanoes makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Easter Island (Off the Coast): is one of the most remote places on Earth. In fact, it has become famous for its mysterious moai statues, located about a 5-hour flight from Santiago.

Why you should travel to CHILE

The real question here is, why shouldn’t you travel to Chile? After all, this country offers something for every type of traveler. It’s a land of contrasts showcasing one of the driest deserts in the world and majestic ice-capped glaciers.

Chile is an outdoor playground for nature lovers, offering some of the most exiting activities. Not only can you hike some of the most world-renowned trails in Patagonia and Chile’s mountains but you can also reach new heights at the top of Andean volcanoes.

Additionally, the superb wine, delicious food and friendly locals will make you trip in Chile absolutely unforgettable.

Exploring the Atacama Desert in North of Chile, South America, Chile Travel Guide

Chile Travel Guide: Top Destinations Based on Your Interests

Chile is an ideal destination for travelers with a wide range of interests. It’s also part of one of the most beloved backpacking routes in South America. Below, you’ll find a comprehensive Chile travel guide to help you choose where to go based on your preferences.

Outdoors

  • Torres del Paine National Park: located in Patagonia (South of Chile), the park offers some of the best hiking trails in the world, including the famous W Trek. Additionally, if you’re lucky, you’ll get the opportunity to spot wildlife, such and guanacos, pumas and foxes.
  • Atacama Desert: is one of the driest places in the world and, because of this weather conditions, a perfect location for stargazing. Additionally, there are plenty activities you can do, from biking in Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley) to hiking Cerro Toco, a dormant volcano on the border with Bolivia. Whether you’re planning one week in Chile or looking to extend your adventure with a Chile and Bolivia itinerary, the Atacama Desert is a must-visit destination filled with breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences.
  • Lake District: the combination of ice formations, forest and fjords makes this area the perfect Chile destination to experience the outdoors. In fact, two of the best places for outdoor lovers are Laguna San Rafael National Park and Huerquehue National Park.

Wineries

  • Colchagua Valley: is Chile’s premier wine region and is exceptional for Carmenere, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah wines.
  • Maipo Valley: offers perfect day trip opportunities from Santiago, as it’s located in close proximity to the city. Here, you can join several wine tours and explore the wineries’ tasting menus.

Historic Towns

  • Valparaiso: is a port town, where you can explore the historic districts, visit Pablo Neruda’s house and enjoy the colorful hilltop neighborhoods.
  • Punta Arenas: is the southernmost city on the Chilean mainland and is a getaway to Patagonia. The city has a lot of historical ties to the colonial past and is a perfect opportunity to learn more about the local culture.

City Life

  • Santiago: is a bustling metropolis with excellent food, lively nightlife, a vibrant cultural scene and modern infrastructure. If you want to enjoy art, cafes, fine dining and nightlife, head to the neighborhoods of Barrio Bellavista, Vitacura and Providencia.

Scenic Drives

  • Carretera Austral: is one of the most scenic and remote road trips in the world. It stretches over 1,200 km through Patagonia and offers breathtaking views of glaciers, fjords, rivers and pristine wilderness.
  • Ruta 5: connects Central Chile with the South, allowing you to stop at some wineries, visit scenic coastal towns and enjoy the mountain views on the way.

Wildlife Viewing

  • Pumalin Park: is a privately owned nature reserve in Chile and is home to many native species like pumas, guanacos and foxes. If you like wildlife, this park won’t disappoint.
  • Chiloe Island: known for its unique biodiversity and especially its penguin colonies.

Read all my posts In this Chile travel guide