Things to do

The Complete List Of 22 Fascinating Things To Do In Chile

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Chile stretches as a long thin nation throughout South America with various exciting attractions. The country possesses three exceptional geographical regions including the dry Atacama desert, icy cold Patagonia, and high altitude Andes mountains.

Wine lovers will find splendid places to enjoy beverages in these valley regions. You can experience a metropolitan lifestyle in Santiago, encounter vivid street scenes of Valparaiso, and see famous Moai statues on Easter Island.

Follow this list of things to do in Chile to maximize your travel enjoyment.

1. Discover The World’s Driest Desert

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The Atacama Desert holds the title of being the planet's driest territory. The atmospheric conditions transform the area into a moon-like appearance. You can witness salt flats, volcanoes, and geysers in this area.

Through the pristine air, one can see countless stars during nighttime. When daytime arrives the weather brings hot sunlight together with dry conditions. The area stands out as an extraordinary site to investigate.

Visitors should make time for Moon Valley among the other marvelous sights of this otherworldly region. Many saltwater lagoons in the desert support groups of flamingos.

2. Hike Torres del Paine National Park

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Everyone knows this scenic area of Chilean Patagonia for its breathtaking scenery. The area contains enormous granite towers, brilliant blue lakes, and extensive glaciation.

Trace your footprints in the trails which offer walks and treks including the W Trek and O Circuit. Viewers can see various wild animals such as guanacos and foxes and occasionally catch a glance of condors flying in the sky.

Pack clothing that allows you to layer up since the weather shows unpredictable changes between wind and rain.

3. Visit Easter Island (Rapa Nui)

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Easter Island exists as a mesmerizing oceanic destination situated in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. The remarkable Moai stone heads from ancient times mark Easter Island as its main attraction.

The Rapa Nui people created these statues several centuries back. The island holds many Moai statues which you can best observe at Ahu Tongariki where fifteen statues line up in a row.

Rano Kau stands as one of the volcanic craters on the island alongside its scenic location with the wonderful Anakena beach. Chile's mainland location remains distant but the visit remains rewarding Chile things to do.

4. Explore The Andes On Horseback

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During your journey you will follow amazing mountain paths that present breathtaking views of white mountain summits together with flowery valleys and fresh river streams.

This chill experience allows a natural connection while offering a chance to experience huaso culture; a Chile's cowboy tradition. The local guides accompany travelers through the land to explain both the heritage and conventional practices of the area.

The adventure welcomes participants of all experience levels with suitable riding routes available.

5. Cruise Through The Chilean Fjords

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People who want to cruise the scenic Chilean fjords have access to multiple excellent cruise options. The popular cruise companies Australis and Skorpios lead most of these travel opportunities.

Australis operates exclusive small cruise vessels to navigate through Cape Horn and Tierra del Fuego areas. The ship vessels of Skorpios provide comfort to passengers alongside scenic sailings through the Patagonian fjords and glaciers.

These are thus one of the must-try tourist attractions in Chile.

6. Soak In Natural Hot Springs

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The exciting landscape of Chile shows off wonderful natural hot springs that create an excellent environment to relax after a busy day of exploration. Visitors to the Atacama Desert should explore Puritama Hot Springs which feature pools arranged within a canyon setting.

A southern Pucon attraction stands out among others because of its remarkable Termas Geometricas hot springs. The natural hot springs at Termas de Chillan let you experience volcanic mountain views during your hot bath experience.

For something unique, head to the Tatio Geysers area in the Atacama.

7. Sip On Pisco, Chile’s National Spirit

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Pisco functions as the national spirit of Chile through its brandy production from grapes. The spirit was established in the nation many years ago while maintaining its widespread appeal throughout the country.

Pisco serves best without mix but finds its spotlight as the main ingredient in the beloved cocktail Pisco Sour made with lemon juice along with sugar and egg whites.

Pisco holds a special place in Chilean hearts so much that they established the Elqui Valley dedicated to grape production and high-quality pisco production.

8. Hit The Slopes At World-Class Ski Resorts

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South America houses its most outstanding ski resort facilities within the Andes Mountain region. Valle Nevado near Santiago has Chilean ski popularity because it offers ideal slopes and cutting-edge recreational venues.

Since its establishment, Portillo has earned fame through its distinctive yellow buildings and breathtaking landscapes. People seeking more quiet ski experiences should visit Corralco located in the Lake District because they can enjoy skiing near an active volcano.

Gear up in advance since the snow season lasts from June to October.

9. Get A View of The City From Sky Costanera

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The building stands atop the Costanera Center which remains the tallest structure in South America. The building's super-fast elevator system brings visitors to floors 61 and 62 through its vertical ascent.

You can experience spectacular views extending across Santiago, the Andes Mountains, and reaching toward the Pacific Ocean when conditions are clear. Visitors can use this site for picture-taking followed by a leisurely view of the landscape.

The attraction exhibits maps with landmark identification features and maintains day-to-night operation for visitors to witness Santiago lit by both sunlight and city illumination.

10. Stop By Museum of Memory & Human Rights

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The facility exists to teach visitors about Chile's military dictatorship era from 1973 to 1990. You will see firsthand the circumstances that affected those who faced the dictatorship's oppression.

The collection consists of visual materials, recorded footage, and archival records together with personal stories which assist visitors to understand past events. It's emotional but important.

The establishment works to provide knowledge about human rights responsibilities as well as defend historical awareness to continue perpetuating human rights. Every visitor to Santiago must see this place because it explains Chile's historical events and its ongoing justice struggle.

11. Shop At Cenco Costanera

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People can find the tallest structure in Latin America accompanied by a sprawling shopping mall inside this massive complex. More than 300 stores occupy the property which hosts international brands together with domestic retailers.

A food court featuring both fast service options and full-meal dining establishments provides various dining choices. Sky Costanera stands as the observation platform located on the 61st floor which should not be missed during your visit.

The mountain panorama along with the Santiago cityscape creates an unbelievable sight. The location makes it perfect to shop at different stores as well as eat or meet with friends.

12. Go To San Cristóbal Hill

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A beautiful place to go to see 360-degree views of Santiago and the mountains. The top of the hill has many things to do as well as a lot of walking around. It's a must-stop for any tourist to get a good feel and bird' s-eye view of the city.

You can hike, bike, or use a funicular, or bus to explore this hill. All visitors have access to a wide range of commercial stores, restaurants, adventure parks, and swimming facilities at the hill.

A 22-meter Virgin Mary statue stands at the hill peak together with its serene ambiance. It also features a charming Japanese Garden and a small zoo, making it a perfect spot for families and nature enthusiasts.

13. Stroll Around Mylodon Cave Natural Monument

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Thousands of years ago the site gained its fame due to the Mylodon sloth which roamed in these regions. Visitors may stroll into this massive cave to conduct their examination.

Research teams discovered both bones and skin remnants of the Mylodon creature at this location making both findings extremely scarce. You can view the enormous dimensions of the sloth statue located outside the cave.

The surrounding territory around the cave presents a pleasant mix of forested lands and mountain ranges. The area provides a perfect landscape for those who study history combined with nature enthusiasts.

14. Spend Some Time At La Moneda Palace

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This majestic building, serving as the seat of the President of Chile, is steeped in historical significance and showcases stunning neoclassical architecture. The Changing of the Guard ceremony is a highlight and adds to the experience.

A guided tour provides detailed historical context and practical tips for visiting La Moneda Palace, including the best times to visit and nearby attractions. Its neoclassical design features elegant symmetry and grandeur.

La Moneda is not just a symbol of political power but also of resilience, having witnessed major historical events, including the 1973 military coup. This is one of the key buildings you'll find on many of the Chilean souvenirs.

15. Discover Lauca National Park

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Within northern Chile, you will find this breathtaking park. Lauca National Park rests at a very high altitude in the Andes Mountains near Bolivia. The scenic beauty contains the monumental Parinacota Volcano alongside Chungra Lake which appears blue against the backdrop.

The park houses three main animal species including flamingos and vicunas together with llamas. Due to its frigid temperature and gusty weather conditions brings appropriate warm wear.

The high altitude reduces air density thus you need to move gradually. People visiting Parinacota will appreciate the charming historic church located within the village. It's a great spot for photos.

16. Travel To Chiloé Island

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Its main attraction consists of wooden house structures named palafitos which stand on stilts throughout the town. The cultural traditions of these famous places in Chile combine local folklore about witches with legends about sea creatures.

The UNESCO-listed wooden churches located there have survived for more than 100 years. The local food shines with curanto as one of the top traditional options cooked inside the ground.

The scenery consists of enchanting hills together with forested areas and coastal stretches. You must see the penguin populations inhabiting the surrounding volcanic rocks.

17. Take A Boat Tour To Marble Caves

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The magnificent blue and white marble formations exist within General Carrera Lake's vicinity near Puerto Rio Tranquilo. The local tourism sector includes two tour providers named Mystery Sur and Patagonia Marble Caves.

Their services are reliable and their knowledge of the region is exceptional. Short boat tours at the marble caves span 1-2 hours while charging 20 to 30 pesos per traveler. The tour involves boarding a tiny boat to position directly adjacent to the caves; one of the Chile must-see.

Visit early in the morning to witness the water radiate under dazzling light conditions.

18. Wine Tasting In The Colchagua Valley

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The region stands as one of the leading wine destinations of South American countries where Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenere dominate the local wine selection.

The area presents beautiful valley views where vineyards roll beside the Andes Mountains distant in the background. Travelers can visit wineries named bodegas for wine-tasting tours.

Restaurants in these locations serve gourmet food combinations together with their dishes. You can easily navigate the area because people make the atmosphere both welcoming and relaxed.

19. See Vibrant Street Art At Valparaíso

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Situated along the Pacific coastline Valparaiso stands as one of Chile's most colorful cities while serving as a cultural hub. The artistic community of poets, creators, and artists congregate in Valparaiso where urban art thrives as a result.

The city center along with its artistic manifestations qualified Valparaiso to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Street art stands as an emblematic element in the city. It has transformed the community into an exhibition of artwork that offers an authentic representation of the inner core.

20. Try Chilean Cuisine in Mercado Central

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Built inside a magnificent nineteenth-century metal framework this lively market attracts people to enjoy both seafood specialties and traditional food from the country.

Begin your dining experience with caldillo de congrio the hearty conger eel soup which legendary poet Pablo Neruda celebrated in his work before sampling ceviche the citric marinated sea dish.

Razor clams baked with cheese and white wine in machas a la parmesana provide an authentic local experience along with the hearty chorrillana dish consisting of fries covered with beef and eggs and onions. Include a glass of local wine and a pisco sour cocktail.

21. Attend A Cueca Dance Performance

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The Cueca stands as Chile's official dance which gets its performances during Independence Day Fiestas in September. But you can witness it at cultural events together with penas venues and yearly festivals.

Traditionally dressed performers at the dance imitate a rooster and hen relationship through playful courtship movements while waving handkerchiefs to each other.

The traditional huaso outfits include ponchos alongside wide-brimmed hats for men and women wear flowing dresses decorated with flowers.

22. Visit The Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works

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The Atacama Desert shelters two UNESCO World Heritage Sites which were formerly busy production centers of saltpeter for fertilizer and explosive purposes until they became deserted towns.

Experiencing the abandoned factories, workers' quarters and communal areas enables you to understand how thousands of workers spent their time in this place.

These locations present an eerie kind of beauty through their rusting equipment and crumbling structures. It reveals Chile's economic growth followed by the end of the nitrate extraction business.