Chile may be the slimmest country in South America, but there is certainly no lack of experiences to savor. Anyone with interest in nature, art, architecture, wineries, and gastronomy will want to add Chile to their must-see list of places to visit. Whether you’re looking to find new things to see or try or experience things you already love, you will find plenty to do on your visit.
Exploring the beauty of nature is a requirement while in Chile! There are endless outdoor places to visit and many activities to take part in. The Atacama Desert, for example, is a unique place to explore. There are lake oases, salt marshes, volcanoes, and even uninhabited homes of Chile’s native people. Visitors can also find a spectacular view of the stars in the evening sky.
If you’re looking for snowcapped volcanoes, lava fields, and scenic lakes, Parque Nacional Lauca is your best option. Here you will find over 340,000 acres of land to trek at an altitude of approximately 10,000 feet to 20,000 feet.
Wanting to find adventure in the outdoors? The Chilean Lake District will not disappoint! The city of Pucón, in the center of a snow-covered volcano and magnificent lake, is the usual headquarters for tourists of the lake district. You will find water sports, snowboarding, skiing, rafting, kayaking, mountain biking, horseback riding, hiking trails and even hot springs.
The Chilean beaches are striking, too, and one place to go if you’re looking to soak up the sun is the Viña del Mar beaches area. One of the best swimming areas is the Playa Caleta Abarca. The cove encircling the beach keeps the sea serene, which is ideal for splashing around and swimming. In many parts of this area, you’ll also find shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Some of the most delectable culinary experiences can be found in Chile, too. Meals include ingredients from the mountains as well as from the sea. And some dishes include many types of quinoa, legumes, microgreens, and exotic local fruits. Be sure to try the “Chilean hot dog,” called a completo as your visit will not be complete if you miss this treat.
You’ll also find many wineries to explore in the wine country of Chile. San Antonio Valley, Aconcagua Valley, the Casablanca Valley, and the Maipo Valley are some of the spots worth touring. You can try Chilean pisco sour, Maipo vino, Malbec, and Syrah, and be sure to see how Chileans make their wine while touring the wineries. Like most vineyards, you’ll find some of the most beautiful views in Chilean wine country, which by themselves are worth a trip.
If architecture appeals to you, check out the city of Valparaiso. The topography is hilly and consists of stacked houses to meet the needs of the terrain. Many visitors just roam the streets, appreciating the buildings’ designs and organization. Other finds in Valparaiso include museums, street art, pubs, and dance bars.
No trip to Chile is complete without a visit to see the moai statues on the volcanic Easter Island as they must be seen in person to be truly appreciated. The statues were carved out of volcanic rock, but it’s unknown why they were made or how they were moved to the coast. Archaeologists believe the statues were created sometime between the 10th and 16th centuries. So, whether you’re a nature lover, an outdoor sports enthusiast, an amateur architect, or a foodie, Chile is a must-visit spot you’ll want to check off on your bucket list!
