Four Must-See Destinations in Chile

Chile is the southernmost country in the world, the closest to Antarctica, and borders Peru to the north, Bolivia to the northeast, Argentina to the east, and the Drake Passage in the far south.

Chile is the narrowest nation throughout the world, yet its borders provide some of the most diverse terrains. From waterfalls to mountains, hot springs to volcanoes… you never know what you might come across next. It's no secret that the country provides a vast array of exciting things to do and see for people of all ages. As a foreigner entering the nation, you will find that the rich culture, fantastic cuisine, lively nightlife, and sightseeing can keep you busy for a lifetime, so we've created a list of four of Chile's best destination spots that you must-see first.

Santiago

Santiago is the capital of this majestic country, and it certainly doesn't lack character. As the largest city in Chile, you will find that residents and tourists favor it for many reasons. Each neighborhood nestled within the city's borders is distinctly different from the next. For instance, as you enter Bellavista, you are introduced to historical European homes and free-spirited energy that you can't ignore. With colorful buildings, marketplaces, and street art around nearly every corner, your eyes could wonder each crevice and still find new details while your ears get to hear the pleasant sounds of live music fill the air.

Santiago, with its deeply evolved and extremely active underground graffiti scene, bursts at the seams with an abundance of eye-popping, jaw-dropping murals.

Valparaiso

If the street art of Santiago gave your eyes pleasure, wait until you experience Valparaiso. This city is one of the most desirable places for tourists due to its bountiful amount of cafes, art galleries, and coffee shops. Take the rich history of this Santiago suburb in by viewing the protest art created by young protesters in the 60's and 70's that referred to themselves as the "Ramona Parra Brigades," or take a walk through the open museum of Museo a Cielo Abierto to get a glimpse of murals that are beyond your wildest dreams.

The 'Jewel of the Pacific,' as Valparaíso is known, is also home to Chile's legislative Congress and the headquarters of the Chilean navy.

Isla Grande de Chiloé

The beautiful beaches and thickly forested areas of Isla Grande de Chiloé seem to go on forever with their beauty. As you explore, you will find waterfalls, wildlife, and empty beaches no matter where you go on the island. The winter months in Chile may not allow for residents and tourists to take advantage of the many water activities there are to enjoy, but that certainly doesn't stop the penguins.

Chiloé is an island of surprising cultural and natural wealth.

San Pedro de Atacama

Known as one of the driest desert regions on this planet, San Pedro de Atacama isn't meant for everyone crossing through. Nevertheless, the area provides some of the best night skies and exciting hiking adventures. Make sure to check out the volcano Lascar which is situated at the arc connecting four countries before you head to the geyser field of El Tatio for a soak in its hot springs.

The Atacama Desert is one of Chile’s best known destinations. The driest place in the world offers a variety of otherworldly landscapes and attractions.

As a professional travel advisor, I not only know my way around a complicated booking, but I also have close business connections that I draw on to design travel experiences that check all the boxes for my clients. Contact Cultivating Connections Travel Planners today for a complimentary trip-planning consultation, whether it is for Chile or another destination that lights you up!

To guide you toward the best choices for your next getaway, talk to your trusted travel advisor about your options!

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