Having spent close to a year in total in South America in my lifetime thus far, it is clear that I have more than just a soft spot for this incredible continent. When asked which country I’d suggest for a first time visit I will always suggest travel to Chile (with Argentina a very close second). Why? Because Chile has it all: Mountains, rivers, lakes, snow, desert, beaches and super cool cities. Not many other countries share the diverse landscapes that Chile can offer. It is an easy introduction into South America without throwing yourself in the deep end in countries like Bolivia. Not sure where to start? Here are my must see’s:
Patagonia
Torres Del Paine is an absolute must-see-once in your life. The stunning mountain range is accessible from the town Puerto Natales. Here you can set yourself up with camping and trekking gear should you want to complete the infamous ‘W circuit’. Having done the W, I would recommend that everyone treks at least some part of the W circuit. If camping isn’t your thing you can take the more glamourous option of staying in a refugio.
Suggested time spent here: Minimum 5 days total (for the full experience)
Chilean Fjords
You might be surprised to know that within the Southern coast of Chile there exists a large number of breathtaking fjords. Often missed by travelers who chose to either fly or bus up from the bottom of Chile. Instead take the 3 day cruise on the Navimag from Puerto Montt down to Puerto Natales (for Torres Del Paine) through the stunning fjords and enjoy some time out from the world. A much welcomed rest after a week of trekking, the Navimag can also be taken north to Puerto Montt servicing both directions. See www.navimag.com for more information and dates
Insider tips: Bring alcohol and snacks on board. These are not available on board for purchase.
If you have flexible dates: Tickets can be bought last minute for a discounted price at the ticket office at either Puerto Montt or Puerto Natales (suggested for outside peak season only).
Pucon
Pucon is a dream come true and holds the title of my favorite city in Chile. Set on a gorgeous lake with the snow covered Villarica Volcano towering in the background, Pucon is adventure activities galore. The ultimate activity of course being the climb of the active Villarica Volcano itself and peering into the crater. Lava can be seen if you are lucky depending on the time of year. The most physically demanding climb I have ever done (and in crampons) reaching the top is an achievement you will never forget. Did I mention you get down by sliding on your butt? Activities available range from hikes, hotsprings, kayaking and waterfalls to bodyboarding down rapids, canyoning and white water rafting.
Insider tip: Take a bottle of wine to enjoy at the top of Villarica!
Pisco Elqui
Forget La Serena and head east to the tiny village of Pisco Elqui. As the name suggest there is no shortage of Pisco distilleries available to become better acquainted with the Pisco making process… and what I really mean by this is the opportunity to taste many a pisco! What Pisco Elqui is better known for is its star gazing. With 360 clear days a year it is one of the world’s best spots to star gaze. I am told it’s the magnetic center of the earth, not exactly sure what was meant by this but it makes for some very impressive star gazing.
Atacama Desert
No travel to Chile is complete without a visit to the Atacama Desert. With some of the most beautiful and obscure landscapes that can be found in the whole of South America there is a reason Atacama finds itself on most tourist agendas. There is also the opportunity to sandboard if you want to get a little closer to the action.
Insider tip: Skip the tours and hire a bike.
Valparaiso
One of South Americas most influential seaports and listed UNESCO world heritage site Valparaiso will easily steal your heart. Declared a world heritage site due to its system of funicular lifts that carry locals around each day making the city accessible. While this is fascinating what is of particular interest is the intricate colours that decorate the city. With a huge street art culture, Valparaiso is one of the most enchanting cities I have come across and very much worth a visit.
Insider tip: You can also day trip from Santiago City
Chile is a very large country, please don’t underestimate the travel time needed to get from one city to another (usually around 20 hours if by bus). It is however worth every last bus ridden hour should you decide to travel in this manner. And this comes from someone who had food poisoning for 8 of the 20 hour bus ride coming in to Atacama – oh, on that note never eat food from bus terminals! If that experience did not deter me slightly from Chile I think that really says it all … Get to Chile!
What To Do When You Travel to Chile
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