Explore deserts, islands and glaciers on your Chile tour
From wines to volcanos, glaciers to dry deserts, Chile never to ceases to amaze with its treasures. There are so many things to do in this popular destination in South America: exploring cities like Santiago and Valparaiso, enjoying it’s lush and rugged outdoors, marveling at the starry night in the Atacama Desert, and lest we forget – indulging in fine Chilean wines, spa treatments, and luxurious accommodations. There’s the scenic beauty of Patagonia to explore, the dramatic terrain of San Pedro de Atacama to marvel at, several beautiful national parks such as the Torres del Paine National Park to explore, the sight of stunning glaciers to relish…Chile is truly a traveler’s delight!
If you are wondering what are the popular things to do in Chile, then this is the guide for you. Here is a list of the top ten things to do in Chile curated by our Enchanting Travels specialists, which should definitely be part of your Chile travel guide!
1 Explore Torres del Paine in Chile
Don’t miss the Torres del Paine National Park on your tour of Chile as it is the top attraction in Chile. Sparkling lakes, snowy mountain peaks and diverse flora and fauna await you on a hiking tour of Torres del Paine, one of the must-visit attractions in Chilean Patagonia. Apart from hiking and trekking in Torres del Paine, you can also explore the national park on horseback, or on scenic van tours.
Beautiful trails take you deep within the remote landscapes of the national park, making Torres del Paine ideal for an immersive experience in nature.
2 See Geysers and Lagoons in the Atacama Desert
San Pedro de Atacama is the starting point for Atacama Desert tours: visit the bubbling Tatio Geyser at sunrise and watch graceful flamingos looking for food in the glittering Chaza Lagoon. The Atacama is the world’s driest desert and there are several things to do in the Atacama Desert. Marvel at its salt flats, watch the sunset, eat empanadas in an Andean village…the list is endless!
It is the world’s driest desert and there are several things to do in the Atacama. Marvel at its salt flats, watch the sunset, eat empanadas in an Andean village…the list is endless!
3 Sample the Culture of Santiago de Chile
Witness panoramic views of sprawling Santiago de Chile from high up in Cerro San Cristobal. In addition to the vibrant neighborhoods and buzzing cultural scene, the metropolis and the Barrio Lastarria are also a mecca for gourmands from all over the world, perfect for a culinary tour.
Embark on a culinary tour in Santiago de Chile! Chilean art is gaining global acclaim and one of the best places to appreciate this is in the many galleries and street art in Santiago de Chile. Don’t forget to visit the Pablo Neruda museum, one of the most popular attractions in the city.
4 Visit Easter Island in Chile
The famous Moai sculptures of Rapa Nui are still a mystery to researchers. Only a few find their way to Rapa Nui, but if you do make the journey, the mystical beauty of Easter Island will take your breath away!
Understand the mystery of Easter Island on a tour of Easter Island. There are many things to see on Easter Island apart from the mysterious Moai figurines: from huge volcanic craters to preserved villages in stone. You can even go diving in the beautiful waters off the coast. Unwind after, with some delicious seafood!
5 Embark on a Cruise to Cape Horn
Discover the hidden gems of Patagonia on a Punta Arenas cruise! The highlight of this expedition remains the mysterious Cape Horn, the southernmost tip of South America. Inhale the fresh air of the Antarctic on a spectacular cruise through the scenic landscape of the fjords.
Other highlights of a cruise from Punta Arenas include seeing Chile’s largest colony of Magellanic penguins and witnessing the stunning natural beauty of Patagonia that lies beyond the Drake Passage.
6 Hike in the Chilean Countryside
Set far away from the hustle and bustle of busy streets, the Chilean seaside is truly a place of seclusion and silence. Enjoy peaceful hiking tours to the Petrohue Falls, famous for its ‘smoking’ waters or to the Calbuco Volcano.
If only for the breathtaking natural beauty, hiking adventures are some of our favorite highlights of Chile!
7 Wine Tours in Maipo Valley
For wine lovers, a wine tour in the Maipo Valley is highly recommended. Surrounded by the snowy peaks of the majestic Andes, this region produces some of the best wines in the world. Sample gourmet cuisine paired with fine vintage on an extended private tour of Maipo Valley.
Maipo Valley is easily the most popular wine region in the country and visiting it is one of the top things to do in Chile.
8 Enjoy Bohemian Flair in Valparaiso
The colorful harbor town of Valparaiso boasts a special Bohemian flair, antique villas and the Ascensores – cable cars that are over a hundred years old! Take one to an enchanting viewpoint to gain an aerial perspective on the charming town.
Some of the other top things to do in Valparaiso include admiring its street art, visiting a traditional fishing caleta, exploring the mythical mountain of Cerro Alegre and enjoying its bars like Bar Cinzano.
9 Drive Down the Carretera Austral in Aysen
Take a self-drive tour through the remote Aysen region. The rugged beauty of karst landscapes and the feeling of absolute freedom await you on the Carretera Austral.
Set out on a rental car for an unforgettable experience on your Chile tour, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
10 Discover San Rafael Glacier on a Boat
A Puerto Montt cruise takes you past majestic fjords and imposing glaciers, especially the San Rafael glacier, which you can see up close from a motorboat. Puerto Montt is a mid-sized city that offers the perfect location for visiting excavations of the oldest settlement in South America.
Additional attractions are the natural reserve on Chiloé Island and the numerous lakes around the city that offer extensive trekking opportunities.
Discover all the best things to do in Chile by booking your vacation with our experts at Enchanting Travels. Contact us for your tailor-made and obligation-free tour itinerary.
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Popular Trips to Chile
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Best Time To Visit
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Safety
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