« CHILE • Discover Chile
Discover magical Chile
Spain conquered and colonised Chile in the mid-16th century, replacing Inca rule in northern and central Chile, but failing to conquer the independent Mapuche that inhabited south-central Chile. After declaring its independence from Spain in 1818, Chile emerged in the 1830s as a relatively stable authoritarian republic.
Easter Island •
North Chile •
Patagonia •
Puerto Montt •
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• Santiago
Compared to other cities in Latin America, Santiago feels distinctly European. Its stately, dignified boulevards and neoclassical architecture, swanky high-rise suburbs, efficient metro system and, above all, general state of orderliness reflect a culture that is hard-working, prosperous and business-minded …
• Easter Island
Whether watching the sunrise over the coastal Ahu Tongariki, rambling through ancient volcanic rock quarries, celebrating at a traditional Polynesian festival or snorkeling through crystalline waters, visitors find that Easter Island is a destination like no other, and its magnetic appeal leaves many longing to return …
• North Chile
The Atacama in North Chile is the most 'perfect' of deserts; some coastal stations have never recorded measurable rainfall, although infrequent 'El Niño' events can bring brief but phenomenal downpours in other places. The region's great mineral wealth has given it a special role in Chilean history …
• Patagonia
Tourism is an important part of Patagonia's economy. Originally a remote backpacking destination, the region has attracted increasing numbers of upmarket visitors and cruise passengers visiting Antarctica. Travelers come the distance to trek in Torres del Paine, to gaze at the glaciers or simply to say they've been to the 'end of the world' …
• Puerto Montt
Engulfed in scenic surroundings at the deepest part of Reloncaví Bay, Puerto Montt is a beautiful city of rolling green mountains, distant peaks capped with snow all year round, and sparkling water reflecting it all. The city itself is a pleasant spot known for its German architecture and character …
• Puerto Varas
Puerto Varas is popular as the smaller, less accessible port town just 15 minutes from Puerto Montt, overlooking beautiful Lago Llanquihue and the snowcapped peak of Osorno Volcano. The pretty city attracts active travelers with wonderful hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, and fishing opportunities …
• Punta Arenas
Punta Arenas is a working town, busier with oil, wool, seafood and shipping than the enchanted tourists seeking small boats out into the immaculate wilderness. Its museums and no-nonsense charm have their own appeal, as do its modern amenities, especially after a few days camping in the outback …
• San Pedro de Atacama
Where water does come to the surface in San Pedro de Atacama, there is life in the form of flamingoes taking off in the morning over Laguna Chaxa and the swift-running rhea that shows up at the altiplanic lakes at 13,500 feet. There's also water in the Ojos del Salar in the middle of nowhere …
• Valparaiso
UNESCO declared the historic part of Valparaiso a world heritage site in 2003, and when you get here, you won't wonder why. It's been called the Jewel of the Pacific, or Chile's version of San Francisco, but there's really no comparing it to anyplace you've ever been, and you'll just have to come see it yourself …
« CHILE • Discover Chile
