The land of fire and ice: the best things to do in Chile
21.07.2023 - 07:39
/ roughguides.com
Chile is one of the most geographically diverse countries on earth. This land of ice and fire is 4270km long and only 64 km at its narrowest point. The south is defined by beautiful fjords, forests and mountains. Meanwhile, the north is known for its beaches, stargazing observatories and deserts. To help structure your trip, here is our first-timer's guide for the best things to do in Chile.
This article is inspired by our Rough Guide to Chile — your essential guide for travelling in Chile.
For many, Santiago serves as a great place to start their trip to Chile. Located roughly in the centre of the country, this capital city has many interesting and noteworthy sites.
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As one travels north of Santiago, towards the top of Chile, the landscape becomes progressively drier. Here there are many beautiful sites to see.
Atacama Desert, Chile © Vaclav Sebek/Shutterstock
Arica was the first port for exporting the fabulous silver wealth of Bolivia’s Potosí mine. Today it is known for its year-round beautiful weather and beaches. Arica is a commune and a port city. It is Chile's northernmost city, being located only 18 km south of the border with Peru.
Arica, Chile © Inga Locmele/Shutterstock
The Chilean Lake District is a beautiful area where one can find snow-capped mountains reflected in looking-glass lakes. Taking in the mountain air of this wonderland is one of the best things to do in Chile.
Puerto Varas, Chile © Jose Luis Stephens/Shutterstock
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This area's biggest draws are the tiny villages, and its two wild national parks – Chiloé National Park and Tantauco National Park.
One of the sixteen wooden churches of Chiloé © Shutterstock
Northern Patagonia is a lush, untamed mass of forest, rivers, fjords and mountains, bisected by the infamous Carretera Austral (Southern Highway).
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Pumalin national park, Patagonia Michinmahiuda volcano, Chile © Shutterstock
Southern Patagonia – a land of vaqueros, mountains and huge swathes of scrubland, dotted with roaming guanacos and ñandú (ostriches).
Guanaco admiring the Andes Mountains © David Thyberg/Shutterstock
Chile's wine-making history dates back to when Spanish conquistadors grew the first grapes in the 16th century. Today, Chile produces some of the top wines in the global wine industry. Its diverse geography makes for several distinct grape-growing areas.
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