Where are the best places to visit in Chile for the first time?

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Chile, where diverse landscapes range from stark deserts to towering glaciers. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the towering Andes, Chile's narrow coastal strip boasts a variety of climates and stunning scenery that shift dramatically with its changing latitudes.

Chile’s remarkable landscapes are its greatest allure, offering everything from the arid Atacama Desert to the lush vineyards of the Central Valley, and the vast glaciers of the southern wilderness around Torres del Paine National Park. This is a country made for outdoor exploration, whether by hiking, biking, horse riding, or venturing onto the water by kayak or paddleboard.

Venture further afield to discover the mysterious Easter Island, a remote Pacific Isle with its own distinct Polynesian culture and iconic Moai statues.

Chile is a nation rich in arts and culture, with its capital, Santiago, producing world-renowned poets and writers. Modern Chile is one of the most affluent and stable countries in the region, offering a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere. With its excellent infrastructure and extensive flight network, traveling through Chile is both convenient and rewarding, allowing you to explore its many wonders with ease.

Read on, or click below to enquire and speak to Amanda.

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Atacama Desert

In the far north of Chile lies the Atacama Desert, the world’s driest non-polar desert, known for its surreal and striking landscapes. This otherworldly region is characterised by lunar-like rock formations, towering volcanoes, shimmering salt flats, and spouting geysers.

In contrast to the lush southern regions of Chile, the Atacama’s vast and barren altiplano offers a unique playground for adventure. The desert oasis town of San Pedro de Atacama serves as the perfect base for exploration, whether on foot, mountain bike, or by jeep.

Begin your journey with excursions at lower altitudes, ideal for the first days of acclimatisation. Discover the enchanting Rainbow Valley, where large rocks and multicoloured hills in shades of red, white, and green create a mesmerising view. As the day fades, visit Moon Valley, with its eerie, lunar-like rock formations sculpted by centuries of wind and water erosion. The silence here is almost palpable, adding to the area’s ethereal atmosphere.

After adjusting to the altitude, venture higher to explore the El Tatio geysers, the highest in Chile, best seen at sunrise when their steam plumes are most dramatic. Continue to the high-altitude Miscanti and Miñique Lagoons, nestled beneath the towering peaks of Miscanti Hill and Miñique Volcano. This pristine environment is a haven for wildlife, including foxes, flamingos, and vicuñas. For those with time, the salt flats of Salar de Atacama, Puitama hot springs, and Death Valley offer further opportunities for adventure, including sandboarding and stargazing beneath the clear desert skies.

Far & Wild combination idea

Travel north to the magical Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia for an epic adventure in this remote region.

Have a look at our Winelands, Deserts and Salt Flats suggested trip.

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Santiago & Winelands

Set against the stunning backdrop of snow-capped Andean peaks in a sunlit, fertile valley, Santiago, Chile’s vibrant capital, lies at the heart of the nation. This sprawling metropolis is a mix of contrasting neighbourhoods, offering an array of fascinating buildings and authentic eateries to explore on a Santiago holiday.

The city’s colonial centre, with its cobbled streets and historic buildings, reveals a poignant past, juxtaposed with the modernity of glittering malls, towering skyscrapers, and shady boulevards. Santiago also features European-style districts, such as the Italianate Bellavista and the newly vibrant Lastarria, where antique shops, trendy cafes, and eccentric bars create a lively and eclectic atmosphere.

Dominating the cityscape is Cerro San Cristobal, an imposing hill offering panoramic views of the entire city. Reach the summit via a scenic cable car ride or an invigorating hike and be rewarded with breathtaking vistas. Santiago's central location makes it an ideal base for day trips, including visits to the surrounding Mediterranean landscapes. Here, fertile valleys house vineyards and wineries where you can sample Chile’s renowned wines, making Santiago not just a city to explore, but also a gateway to the country’s rich wine heritage.

Far & Wild combination idea

Traverse the Andes mountains by either land or air to Argentina and the Wine Region city of Mendoza.

Have a look at our Winelands of Chile & Argentina suggested trip.

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Easter Island

Easter Island, or Rapa Nui, is a remote volcanic island in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, renowned for its enigmatic Moai statues and rich cultural heritage. This small island, first settled by Polynesians, has captivated visitors with its unique history and stunning landscapes.

Once lush and densely forested, the island was home to a thriving community that carved the iconic Moai statues from volcanic rock. These imposing figures, averaging four metres in height and weighing around fourteen tonnes, remain a mystery, their purpose still debated. Standing in silent vigil over the island, they create a hauntingly beautiful panorama.

Today, the island's rugged terrain is characterised by rocky, treeless grasslands, dotted with striking coves and the occasional sandy beach. The areas where the Moai stand have been preserved as a National Park and World Heritage Site, dedicated to safeguarding the legacy of Rapa Nui culture.

Visitors can explore the island's breathtaking landscapes through hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. For those drawn to the sea, snorkelling and scuba diving offer a chance to discover the vibrant underwater world surrounding the island, adding another layer of adventure to this extraordinary destination.

Far & Wild combination idea

Easter Island can only be accessed from the hub of Santiago, so can combine with pretty much any destination in Chile or Argentina. Santiago is a major hub so flights can take you to almost any key city in the region, inlcuding Cusco in Peru for a spectacular add on to Machu Picchu.

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Lake District

Chile’s Lake District is a breathtaking region that evokes a Tolkienesque landscape of monkey puzzle forests, towering snow-capped volcanoes, and deep blue lakes. This picturesque area is characterised by ancient forests that blanket rugged hills, dotted with hot springs, crystalline streams, and meadows bursting with wildflowers. The region's pastoral scenes are completed by grazing cattle and charming villages.

In the north, the lively town of Pucón beckons adventurers with its stunning setting on the shores of Lago Villarrica, framed by the snow-capped Villarrica Volcano. Pucón is a hub for outdoor activities, offering everything from white-water rafting on the region’s rushing rivers to horseback riding through the Andes. For those seeking more serene pursuits, the nearby Huerquehue National Park offers pristine trails, while the volcanic hot springs provide perfect relaxation. History enthusiasts can explore the rich culture of the indigenous Mapuche people.

Further south lies Puerto Varas, a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Llanquihue, overlooked by the majestic Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes. The town’s Germanic influence is evident in its charming architecture and flower-filled streets. Visitors can hike the Osorno Volcano, marvel at the Petrohue Falls, or venture to the Chiloé Archipelago. There, time seems to stand still, with the iconic Palafito houses, UNESCO-listed wooden churches, and opportunities for hiking or kayaking through the island’s rugged beauty.

Far & Wild combination idea

Traverse the mountains and lakes of the region, from Puerto Varas in Chile to Bariloche in Argentina on the iconic ‘Lakes Crossing’. This day trip seamlessly connects the two destinations.

Have a look at our Lakes of Chile & Argentina trip.

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Torres del Paine National Park

Torres del Paine National Park in southern Patagonia stands as Chile’s crowning jewel, offering an array of world-class trekking and hiking experiences. Its rugged landscape is a haven for adventurers, where soaring mountains pierce the sky, and snow-capped peaks dominate the horizon. The park's winding trails lead through breathtaking scenery, with stunning vistas around every corner.

Among the most popular treks are the hike to the base of the iconic towers, the Glacier Grey trek, and journeys to Los Cuernos and the Valle Francés. Each trail promises an unforgettable adventure, immersing you in the park’s wild beauty.

For a different perspective, embark on a boat trip across the shimmering waters of Lago Grey, navigating through a maze of dazzling glaciers. This journey reveals a frozen world of colossal ice formations, offering a unique vantage point in the park’s wilderness.

The park’s diverse habitats, from wind-swept grasslands to vibrant meadows and icy lagoons, are home to a rich variety of wildlife. Spot guanacos grazing, watch condors soar overhead, and keep an eye out for elusive pumas, especially during the quieter winter months from April to October.

Far & Wild combination idea

Cross the border into Argentine Patagonia and the town of El Calafate, a fantastic base to visit Perito Moreno Glacier. Further afield, take a day trip to the remote Estancia Cristina and its surrounding pristine wilderness.

Have a look at our Patagonia Highlights trip.

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Conclusion

Chile is a land of extreme contrast, and these destinations are perfect for a 2-week trip, however there is so much more to explore. Visit the charming town of Valparaiso on the Pacific Coast or delve deeper into the picturesque Lake District with a side trip to Chiloe Island.

The entire country is well connected with internal flights and international options to other destinations in the region. Contact us to discuss your perfect trip!