Things To Do
in Chile

Chile is a long, narrow country stretching along the western edge of South America, bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Andes mountains to the east. Its diverse geography ranges from the arid Atacama Desert in the north to the lush forests and fjords of Patagonia in the south. Chile is known for its rich culture, vibrant cities, and stunning natural landscapes, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

The country also boasts a historical significance with indigenous cultures intertwined in its modern identity.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Santiago
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then head to the Plaza de Armas, the main square of Santiago, to absorb the vibrant atmosphere and visit the Metropolitan Cathedral.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of the historic La Moneda Palace, followed by a visit to the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino to explore Chile's indigenous history.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Chilean restaurant in the Lastarria district, then take a stroll through the Parque Forestal before heading to a rooftop bar for stunning views of the city.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Wine
morning
:

Travel to the nearby Maipo Valley for a vineyard tour and wine tasting at one of the renowned wineries, such as Concha y Toro.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the winery, then take a guided hike in the Andes mountains to experience the breathtaking landscapes.

evening
:

Return to Santiago and dine at a fusion restaurant that blends traditional Chilean cuisine with modern culinary techniques, followed by a night out at a lively salsa club.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-30
Coffee$2-5
🍷Bottle of wine$8-25
🏨Hotel night$50-150
🚌Public transport ticket$1-2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and diverse geography.
  • Rich cultural heritage and vibrant cities.
  • Delicious cuisine and renowned wine regions.
  • Long distances between attractions.
  • Higher living costs in tourist areas.
  • Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Adiós" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Chile

Visit one of these nice places.

Torres del Paine National Park

Famed for its stunning mountains and turquoise lakes, this park offers breathtaking landscapes for photography.

Valparaíso

Known for its colorful hillside houses and street art, this coastal city is a vibrant backdrop for urban photography.

Atacama Desert

With its otherworldly landscapes, salt flats, and flamingo-filled lagoons, the Atacama Desert is a photographer's paradise.

Culinary Guide

Food in Chile

Chilean cuisine is a delightful fusion of indigenous ingredients and European influences, emphasizing fresh seafood, meats, and local produce.

Chile Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pastel de Choclo

A traditional corn pie made with a layer of ground meat, olives, hard-boiled eggs, and topped with a sweet corn mixture.

Must-Try!

Ceviche

Fresh fish marinated in citrus juices, typically served with onions, cilantro, and aji peppers.

Asado

A barbecue feast featuring various cuts of meat, often enjoyed during family gatherings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Central

A bustling market in Santiago known for its fresh seafood and local delicacies.

La Vega Central

A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and traditional Chilean snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Chile's climate varies significantly along its length. The north is arid and desert-like, with temperatures that can exceed 30°C (86°F) in summer. Central Chile experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. In the south, the climate is temperate with cooler temperatures and significant rainfall, especially in the winter months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

Chilean people typically greet with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek among friends.

Punctuality

Being slightly late is generally acceptable, but it's polite to inform if you will be very late.

Respect for Tradition

Showing respect for Chilean traditions and indigenous cultures is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Chile is generally considered safe for travelers, with low crime rates in comparison to other South American countries. However, it is advisable to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Keep an eye on personal belongings and avoid displaying valuables.

Tipping in Chile

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a 10% tip in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, though it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (September to November)

A great time to visit as flowers bloom and temperatures are mild, perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer (December to February)

Warmest season with plenty of tourists; ideal for beach activities and wine tours.

Autumn (March to May)

Harvest season in wine regions; enjoy wine festivals and beautiful fall colors.

Winter (June to August)

Cold in the south with snow in the Andes; perfect for skiing and winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

Chile at Night

Chile's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, particularly in cities like Santiago and Valparaíso, where bars, clubs, and live music venues abound. The scene ranges from upscale bars offering craft cocktails to lively dance clubs playing Latin music. In addition, many neighborhoods have their own unique vibe, from bohemian artsy areas to upscale districts with high-end lounges.

Hiking in Chile

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro San Cristóbal

A popular hiking destination in Santiago, offering panoramic views of the city and the Andes.

Cascadas de las Animas

Located near the Maipo River, this trail features beautiful waterfalls and scenic views, ideal for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Chile by plane.

Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL)

Located near Santiago, this is the main international gateway to Chile, offering connections to various destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Chile's major cities, particularly Santiago, are quite walkable, with many neighborhoods featuring pedestrian-friendly streets. The historic center of Santiago is easy to explore on foot, with several parks and plazas. However, in rural areas, public transport or driving may be necessary to access attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mapuche

The largest indigenous group in Chile, known for their rich cultural traditions and history.

European Descendants

A significant portion of the population is of European descent, primarily Spanish, German, and Italian, contributing to the country's cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport in Chile, with many passionate fans and local clubs.

Rugby

Gaining popularity in recent years, rugby has a dedicated following and is played at various levels throughout the country.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in major cities like Santiago can be congested, especially during rush hours. Public transportation options include buses, the metro system, and taxis, making it easier to navigate. Ridesharing apps are also widely used, providing convenient alternatives for getting around.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many Chilean dishes can be adapted to vegetarian preferences, especially in urban areas.

Gluten-Free

While traditional dishes often contain gluten, fresh produce and seafood options are widely available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Chile has a well-developed healthcare system, offering both public and private services. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Major cities have modern hospitals and clinics, while rural areas may have limited access to healthcare facilities.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Chile.