17 Best Things to Do in Chile, a slender and elongated country that runs along the South American coast, is undeniably one of the most diverse places on the continent. From the fiery volcanoes fueled by lava to the sun-drenched beaches and colossal glaciers, Chile boasts a plethora of extreme landscapes that will leave you in awe.
For those who love spending time in the great outdoors, Chile offers an abundance of activities to choose from. You can explore the world’s driest desert, marvel at the stunning scenery of glaciers and fjords, or witness the many volcanoes that dot the Pacific “ring of fire”. Additionally, Chile is a haven for adventure enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, surfing, paragliding, and swimming.
Regardless of your interests, the stunning natural beauty of this unspoiled country is sure to leave an indelible mark on your memory.
Mamalluca Observatory is one of the 17 Best Things to Do in Chile
Embark on a celestial journey through various galaxies, planets, and constellations with an enthralling excursion to the Mamalluca Observatory. Nestled in the mountains of the Coquimbo Region, the observatory is shielded from the disruptive light pollution of the city. The pristine sky conditions offer an unparalleled opportunity to observe celestial bodies beyond our own planet.
Marvel at the intricate rings of Saturn or scrutinize the moon’s craters and crevices. You may even catch a glimpse of the Omega Nebula, situated 6,000 lightyears away from Earth. The observatory’s expert guides provide insightful explanations of the diverse astronomical phenomena.
Paragliding in Iquique
Iquique, a city located by the beach, is considered to be one of the top destinations for paragliding enthusiasts worldwide. The city boasts miles of coastline and offers unparalleled views of the ocean, making its natural landscape breathtakingly beautiful. However, the experience of floating hundreds of feet in the air makes it even more stunning than viewing it from the shores.
Numerous paragliding companies are scattered throughout the city, catering to both beginners and experienced paragliders. With so much to explore, you’ll never run out of things to do while paragliding in Chile.
Robinson Crusoe Island
Robinson Crusoe Island, located off the glistening Chilean coast, is the second-largest island in the Juan Fernandez Islands. Despite its size, the island is sparsely populated with only a few hundred inhabitants. Unlike many tourist destinations, Robinson Crusoe Island has managed to preserve its natural beauty and remains relatively untouched by tourism. However, it does attract scuba divers who are intrigued by the opportunity to explore the sunken WWI shipwreck that lies off its coast.
One of the island’s most notable claims to fame is its association with Daniel Defoe’s novel, Robinson Crusoe. Although the story is set in the Caribbean, it is widely believed to have been inspired by the real-life experiences of Alexander Selkirk, who was stranded on Robinson Crusoe Island from 1704 to 1709.
Surfing in Pichilemu
Pichilemu, a charming coastal town, is a haven for surfers. Although the water may not be as warm as in other destinations, the powerful waves create perfect conditions for surfers of all levels of expertise.
For beginners who are just starting out, Playa Principal de Pichilemu offers a great learning environment. The gentle and shallow waves, coupled with the presence of numerous lifeguards, make it an ideal spot to master the art of surfing. On the other hand, experienced surfers seeking a thrilling challenge should head to Infernillo or Punta de Lobos. These locations boast waves that can reach staggering heights of up to 50 feet.
Hiking Volcan Villarrica
Hiking up Volcán Villarrica is definitely not for the faint-hearted. This volcano is known for its high level of activity and had its most recent eruption in 2015. If you’re ready to take on the challenge, reaching the summit will undoubtedly be an unforgettable adventure.
The entire hike typically takes around nine hours to complete. The path to the peak is icy and quite steep, necessitating the use of crampons, ice picks, and even gas masks to shield yourself from the sulphuric fumes.
Churches of Chiloé
The Churches of Chiloé, a collection of 70 churches scattered along the Chilean coast, showcase the unique blend of European and Latin American influences. Built by Jesuits who arrived from Spain during the 18th and 19th centuries, these churches stand out for their timber construction, deviating from the traditional European architectural style. Nevertheless, they remain pristine examples of Europe’s impact on Latin America.
While it may be impractical to visit all 70 churches, there are a few notable ones that should not be missed. Among them is the Church of Quinchao, which stands as one of the largest in the region. Additionally, make sure to include the vibrant yellow Church of San Francisco and the striking three-peaked Church of Tenaún in your itinerary.
Valle de la Luna
The mesmerizing Valle de la Luna gives the impression of treading upon an extraterrestrial realm. Situated in the core of the Atacama desert, this lunar-like terrain encompasses immense sand dunes, rugged peaks, and extraordinary rock structures.
To fully appreciate the breathtaking vistas of Valle de la Luna, it is essential to remain until sunset. As the sun gradually descends beyond the majestic mountains, the heavens become adorned with vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple.
Cerro San Cristobal
Cerro San Cristobal, named after St. Christopher, is a prominent natural landmark that dominates the skyline of Santiago. This tree-lined hill offers some of the most breathtaking views of the city. You can reach the summit by walking for 45 minutes or taking a cable car. Apart from admiring the panoramic views, you can also explore Santiago Metropolitan Park or take a refreshing dip in one of the two outdoor pools.
San Rafael Glacier
The San Rafael Glacier, situated within the vast Northern Patagonian ice fields, stands as one of the largest ice caps in the region. Distinguished from its counterparts, this glacier finds itself encircled by vibrant green jungles, forming a striking contrast to the icy blue hues. Accessible solely by water, a visit to this remarkable glacier necessitates careful preplanning. Nevertheless, numerous scientists express concerns over its potential complete disappearance within a short span of time, emphasizing the urgency to experience the magnificence of the San Rafael Glacier at the earliest opportunity.
Geysers del Tatio
Geysers del Tatio, situated at the base of several stratovolcanoes, is a remarkable geothermal area that is constantly bubbling with activity. It is the largest geyser field in the Southern Hemisphere, boasting more than 60 geysers and over 300 hot springs. Although most of the geysers shoot up to a height of three to four feet, some can reach up to 30 feet. After a long day of exploring the volcanic fields, you can unwind and rejuvenate in one of the hot springs. While some of the springs are too hot to approach, there are a few that are perfect for a relaxing soak.
Lauca National Park
Visiting Chile offers a remarkable expedition to Lauca National Park, where untamed splendor awaits. Situated in the northern region of the Andean Mountain range, this destination captivates adventurers seeking to immerse themselves in Chile’s diverse and untamed terrain.
Within this awe-inspiring landscape, you will be enveloped by majestic snow-capped volcanoes and mesmerizing cobalt blue lakes. Moreover, you will have the opportunity to witness a rich array of wildlife. The park is home to alpacas, flamingos, and over 130 distinct bird species, freely roaming across the expansive Lauca National Park.
Valparaiso
Valparaíso, hailed as the “Gem of the Pacific,” stands out as one of Chile’s most charming towns. Its vibrant streets are adorned with a plethora of colorful houses, boutique art galleries, and meandering cobblestone pathways.
Valparaíso is home to some of the nation’s most significant landmarks, such as the inaugural library, the oldest Spanish language newspaper, and even the oldest stock exchange. Additionally, visitors can explore the lively Plaza Sotomayor and the renowned Pablo Neruda museum. For a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire city, a ride on the Artilleria funicular railway is highly recommended.
Moai Stone Statues
The Moai Stone Statues on Easter Island are widely recognized worldwide. Scattered across the island, there are more than 1,000 volcanic stone statues that were intricately carved by the Rapa Nui people over six centuries ago. Some of these statues have their torsos partially buried underground, leaving only their heads visible above the surface.
Although Easter Island is technically part of Polynesia, it was annexed by Chile in the late 1800s. Getting to the island is not the easiest or most affordable task, as it requires a six-hour flight from Santiago. However, if you have the time and resources, visiting Easter Island is a worthwhile experience that you can proudly check off your bucket list.
Torres del Paine National Park[SEE MAP]
Torres del Paine National Park in Chile is a popular destination due to its stunning crystal lakes, snow-capped mountains, and icy glaciers. To fully experience the park, it is recommended to spend several weeks exploring its wonders. However, if time is limited, it is still worthwhile to visit some of its most remarkable attractions.
Embark on a trek through the dense forests of the Valley Frances, enjoy a kayaking adventure on the glistening blue waters of the Rio Serrano, or challenge yourself by traversing the Grey Glacier with an ice pick. Alternatively, you can simply take a leisurely stroll along the trails and marvel at the majestic granite peaks of the Paine mountains that define the park’s landscape.
Marble Caves
The Marble Caves, adorned with mesmerizing swirls of blues, greens, blacks, and yellows, stand as an awe-inspiring testament to Chile’s remarkable natural beauty. This intricate network of caves, sculpted meticulously over countless millennia by the relentless forces of water erosion, is composed entirely of solid marble. As you behold this breathtaking spectacle, set against the backdrop of the vibrant turquoise waves of General Carrera Lake, you will be left astounded by its sheer magnificence.
To witness the splendor of the Marble Caves firsthand, one must venture to General Carrera Lake, the largest lake in Chile. To explore these captivating caves up close and intimately, you have the option of embarking on a boat tour or renting a kayak.
Bahia Inglesa
Indulge in a serene seaside getaway by visiting Bahía Inglesa. Situated close to the Port of Caldera, this charming coastal town offers an array of desirable features – pristine sandy beaches, inviting waters, and a plethora of establishments and eateries to keep you engaged.
Although the majority of visitors come to bask in the sun on the beach, Bahía Inglesa also caters to those seeking a touch of excitement during their journey. Engage in an afternoon of windsurfing amidst the undulating waves or embark on a thrilling underwater exploration by diving into the depths of the ocean.
Isla Magdalena
Come and explore Isla Magdalena, where you can encounter some of Chile’s most endearing inhabitants! This small island serves as a sanctuary for the Magellanic penguin colony, as they arrive to breed along its shores. From September to March, you will have the opportunity to witness over 120,000 penguins, many of which display remarkable friendliness towards humans.
While physical contact is not permitted, there is a designated pathway that allows you to observe these charming creatures in their natural habitat. Despite maintaining a respectful distance, you will still have the chance to capture breathtaking photographs of these inquisitive and waddling creatures.
