Things To Do
in Ancud
Ancud is a charming coastal town located on the northern coast of Chiloé Island in southern Chile. It is known for its picturesque waterfront with colorful wooden houses and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The town has a rich history, with landmarks such as the San Antonio Fort, which played a significant role in protecting the area from attacks in the past.
Ancud also offers visitors opportunities to explore nearby nature reserves, go whale-watching, and savor local seafood dishes.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Adiós" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $70
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Historic Fort of San Antonio. Explore the impressive structures and enjoy views of the ocean.
Head to the Ancud Regional Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Enjoy some traditional food at a nearby café after your visit.
Stroll along the waterfront promenade. Catch a beautiful sunset and indulge in some fresh seafood at a local restaurant.
Visit the stunning Lechagua Beach to relax and soak up the sun. The picturesque surroundings are perfect for photography.
Explore the nearby Puñihuil Natural Monument, known for its penguin colonies. A guided tour will offer insights into the unique wildlife.
Return to Ancud's town center for dinner. Sample local dishes and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at the plaza.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
- Rich cultural heritage and history, including historic architecture and museums.
- Access to various outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and exploring nearby islands.
- Quieter atmosphere compared to larger cities, making it ideal for relaxation.
- A growing tourism sector that showcases local cuisine and traditions.
- Limited job opportunities and economic development compared to larger urban areas.
- Weather can be quite rainy and overcast, affecting outdoor activities.
- Basic infrastructure and amenities may be lacking in certain areas.
- Transportation options may be limited, making it harder to travel to other regions.
- Potential language barriers for non-Spanish speakers.
Best Activities in Ancud
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful landscapes, hiking trails, and unique flora and fauna in Chiloé National Park.
Enjoy birdwatching and coastal views at Punta de Lapa, a picturesque spot in Ancud.
Take a boat tour to Islotes de Punihuil to see penguins, sea lions, and other marine wildlife.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ancud with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ancud
Visit one of these nice places.
Beautiful viewpoint overlooking the ocean and offering great photo opportunities of the Chacao Channel and the surrounding landscapes.
Historic fort with stunning views of the city, ocean, and nearby islands, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Scenic pier with panoramic views of Ancud Bay and the city skyline, providing excellent photo opportunities during sunrise and sunset.
Hilltop viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic views of Ancud, including the iconic Iglesia San Francisco and the city's colorful rooftops, ideal for capturing stunning images.
Food in Ancud
Ancud Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Chilote dish made with a variety of seafood, meats, potatoes, and vegetables, cooked in an earth oven. Best enjoyed at local seafood restaurants along the coast like La Marisqueria de Tumbes.
Must-Try!
A hearty stew featuring local fish or meats, potatoes, and seasonal vegetables, typically served with a side of chuchoca (ground corn). Try this dish at La Casita restaurant for an authentic taste.
A savory potato pancake often served alongside seafood or meat dishes. For a delicious Milcao experience, head to Mercado Municipal de Ancud where vendors offer freshly prepared versions.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ancud better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a food lover ’s paradise, offering fresh seafood, local produce, and an array of street food stalls selling Chilote specialties like fried seafood empanadas and curanto en olla (curanto in a pot).
Look out for street vendors selling Pulmay, a traditional seafood and potato stew cooked in banana leaves, for a quick and flavorsome snack while exploring the town.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ancud, it's important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, particularly when meeting someone for the first time.
When meeting someone in Ancud, it's customary to greet them with a kiss on the cheek, even if they are a stranger. This is a common form of greeting in Chile and is seen as a sign of friendliness and respect.
Punctuality is highly valued in Ancud and being late to meetings or social gatherings may be considered disrespectful. It's important to make an effort to be on time as a sign of respect for others' time.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ancud with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ancud
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not widely practiced in Ancud, Chile. In most cases, a service charge is included in the bill at restaurants and hotels. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip of 5-10% is appreciated.
In Ancud, Chile, cash is widely used for smaller transactions, while credit and debit cards are accepted at larger establishments. It's always a good idea to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller shops or local markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The weather is mild and the landscapes are green and lush after the winter rains. It's a great time for birdwatching and outdoor activities.
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, long days, and plenty of outdoor events and festivals. It's the best time for beach activities and water sports.
The temperatures begin to cool down, and the foliage starts to change colors, making it a beautiful time for hiking and outdoor photography.
The weather is cooler and wetter, but it's a good time for whale watching and enjoying the quiet charm of the town without the crowds.
Ancud at Night
Hiking in Ancud
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located near Ancud, this national park offers a variety of hiking trails through lush forests and along the coastline, showcasing the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
A popular hiking destination, Cerro Huaihuén provides scenic views of the surrounding landscapes and is known for its challenging trails suitable for experienced hikers.
This trail leads through stunning canyon landscapes and offers a unique hiking experience with opportunities to see local wildlife and beautiful vistas.
While primarily known for its penguin colonies, the area also has hiking spots that allow visitors to explore the coast and enjoy views of the ocean and nearby islands.
This area features several hiking paths along the coastline, providing breathtaking views of the ocean and unique geological formations.
Aiports
How to reach Ancud by plane.
Located in Puerto Montt, approximately 212 kilometers from Ancud, this airport serves both domestic and some international flights.
Located in Antofagasta, approximately 710 kilometers from Ancud, it primarily handles domestic flights but also has international services.
Located in Santiago, approximately 1,000 kilometers from Ancud, it is the largest international airport in Chile and serves a wide array of international destinations.
Located in Concepción, approximately 730 kilometers from Ancud, it offers domestic flights and some international connections.
Located in Iquique, about 1,200 kilometers from Ancud, this airport provides various domestic and a few international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group in Ancud, consisting mainly of people of mixed European and Indigenous descent.
Includes groups such as the Mapuche and Chono, who have historical ties to the region.
A smaller group consisting of people from other regions of Chile and various countries, contributing to the city's cultural diversity.
While not a permanent demographic group, Ancud attracts visitors from both within Chile and abroad, impacting the local economy and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Ancud, with many local clubs and a strong fan base.
The coastal location of Ancud makes it a great spot for surfing, attracting both locals and tourists.
Basketball has a growing community in Ancud, with activities organized in schools and local clubs.
Given its proximity to water, paddleboarding is popular among residents, particularly in the summer.
Running and track and field events are commonly practiced, with local competitions held regularly.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ancud.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Chilote cuisine heavily features seafood and meats, many restaurants and cafes in Ancud offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, especially in the form of fresh salads, vegetable stews, and plant-based empanadas.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities can find gluten-free options such as corn-based dishes, seafood, and gluten-free pizza at several eateries in Ancud, ensuring a delightful dining experience without compromising dietary needs.