whatdo

Things To Do
in Victoria

Day Trips

Tours

Attractions

Prices

Victoria is a charming town located in the Araucanía Region of Chile. It is known for its picturesque countryside, surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills. The town's central plaza is a hub of activity, with a quaint church and local markets offering traditional crafts and foods.

Victoria is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful and scenic retreat.

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4.6(238)

Maria Turquesa Full Day Sightseeing Glaciers Cruise

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5.0(1)

Day Tour to the Perito Moreno Glacier from El Calafate

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5.0(1)

Spirit of the Glaciers - 1 Night program

  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Adiós" - Goodbye

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $25
  • ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore the Beauty of Victoria
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Parque Nacional Nahuelbuta, where you can enjoy stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife. Take a short hike to appreciate the beautiful views of the surrounding nature.

afternoon
:

Head to the local artisan market to browse handmade crafts and sample traditional Chilean foods. Don't forget to grab a snack from one of the food stalls featuring local specialties.

evening
:

Enjoy a nice dinner at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Chilean dishes. Take a leisurely stroll through the town center to experience the evening atmosphere.

day 2
Nature and Culture in Victoria
morning
:

Begin your day at the beautiful Lake Colico, perfect for a peaceful morning walk or bird watching. Bring a picnic to enjoy by the shore.

afternoon
:

Visit the Museo Histórico de Victoria to learn about the region’s history and culture. Participate in workshops if available to engage with local artisans.

evening
:

Dine at a quaint café and enjoy delicious local pastries. Later, relax at your accommodation or enjoy a drink at a nearby bar.

Victoria Day Trips

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites, including colonial architecture.
  • Proximity to natural attractions like forests and rivers, ideal for outdoor activities.
  • Vibrant local food scene with a focus on traditional Chilean cuisine.
  • Friendly and welcoming community.
  • Growing tourism industry, which may create economic opportunities.
  • Limited public transportation options, making it challenging to navigate.
  • Potential for heavy rainfall during winter months, which may deter visitors.
  • Economic opportunities may be limited compared to larger cities in Chile.
  • Some areas may lack modern amenities and infrastructure.
  • Isolated location may result in higher travel costs to and from major urban centers.

Best Activities in Victoria

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Hiking in Torres del Paine National Park

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Patagonia by hiking the trails in Torres del Paine National Park. The park offers a variety of trekking options catering to different skill levels, with awe-inspiring views of mountains, glaciers, and lakes.

Whale Watching in Chiloe Island

Explore the waters around Chiloe Island to observe magnificent wildlife, including whales, dolphins, and sea lions. This unique experience offers a chance to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Cycling the Carretera Austral

Embark on a cycling adventure along the Carretera Austral, a scenic route that passes through pristine landscapes, including lush forests, glacial rivers, and rugged mountains. This is a great way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of southern Chile.

Places to Visit in Victoria

Visit one of these nice places.

Osorno Volcano

Provides stunning views and photo opportunities of the conical snow-capped peak.

Chiloé Island

Offers picturesque landscapes, coastal views, and the iconic wooden churches for photography.

Torres del Paine National Park

Features breathtaking scenery with dramatic mountain peaks, glaciers, and turquoise lakes for memorable photographs.

Valparaíso

Known for its colorful buildings, street art, and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

Llanquihue Lake

A beautiful setting with views of the lake, as well as the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes.

Food in Victoria

Victoria, Chile, is known for its diverse and flavorful cuisine, influenced by indigenous Mapuche traditions and Spanish culinary heritage. The region boasts a variety of fresh and high-quality ingredients, making it a haven for food enthusiasts.

Victoria Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Cazuela de Ave

A hearty chicken stew with potatoes, pumpkin, corn, and rice, flavored with native herbs and seasonings. Best enjoyed at local family-run restaurants and traditional eateries like Los Cuatro Caminos.

Must-Try!

Curanto en Hoyo

A traditional dish cooked in a hole in the ground, consisting of meat, seafood, potatoes, and milcao (a type of potato pancake). Look for this unique culinary experience at El Hoyo Restaurant, known for its authentic preparation of curanto.

Sopaipillas

Fried pastry made of pumpkin and flour, often served with pebre (a condiment) and enjoyed as a snack or street food. You can find delicious sopaipillas at local markets and street food stalls throughout Victoria.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Feria Agropecuaria de Victoria

This bustling agricultural and craft market is a great place to sample an array of local produce, cheeses, and traditional snacks like empanadas and freshly made sopaipillas. Don't miss the opportunity to interact with the friendly vendors and immerse yourself in the local food culture.

Calle Colo Colo

A lively street known for its diverse street food offerings, from savory choripanes (chorizo sandwiches) to sweet dulces chilenos (Chilean sweets). It's a perfect spot to indulge in a variety of authentic Chilean street foods and interact with the locals.

Weather

The climate in this region is characterized as a temperate oceanic climate, which is often marked by mild temperatures and abundant precipitation throughout the year. This area experiences four distinct seasons, with a wet, cool winter and a drier, warmer summer. During the winter months, temperatures typically hover between 3°C to 13°C (37°F to 55°F), and rainfall is often frequent, contributing to the lush vegetation of the region. In contrast, summers are mild to warm, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 24°C (50°F to 75°F), and precipitation is less frequent, allowing for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The landscape is heavily influenced by the Pacific Ocean, which moderates temperatures and contributes to the overall humidity in the air. This results in rich biodiversity and fertile lands, making the area suitable for agriculture, particularly forestry and berry cultivation. Overall, the climate promotes a vibrant ecosystem while also posing challenges such as the risk of heavy rains and occasional flooding during the wetter months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting with a kiss

In Victoria, Chile, it is common to greet people with a kiss on the cheek, especially among friends and family. It's a sign of warmth and friendliness.

Respect for elders

Respect for elders is highly valued in Victoria, Chilean culture. It is important to show deference and listen attentively when elders are speaking.

Punctuality

Punctuality is important in Victoria, Chile. Arriving on time for social events and appointments is a sign of respect for others' time.

Safety

In the context of safety, the city is generally considered to have a lower crime rate compared to larger urban centers in Chile. However, like any location, it experiences some social issues, including petty crime such as pickpocketing, particularly in crowded areas. Residents and visitors are advised to remain vigilant and take standard precautions to safeguard personal belongings. Natural disasters, such as earthquakes, can pose a risk in this region, as Chile is located along the Pacific Ring of Fire. Emergency preparedness can be crucial, as the area is accustomed to these events, and local authorities typically have disaster response plans in place. The community is often described as friendly and welcoming, contributing to a perception of safety. Local law enforcement is present, and public safety measures are generally upheld. Visitors are encouraged to stay informed about their surroundings and to familiarize themselves with local emergency services. Overall, while certain precautions are recommended, the city is considered relatively safe for both residents and tourists, with a strong sense of community and support systems in place.

Tipping in Victoria

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Victoria, Chile, tipping is not a common practice and is not expected. However, in some upscale restaurants or hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill.

Payment

Payment in Victoria, Chile is generally done in cash, especially in smaller establishments. Credit cards are widely accepted in larger cities and tourist areas. It's advisable to carry cash for smaller transactions and in more remote areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

Best time to visit Victoria, Chile with warm weather, outdoor activities, and festivals.

Autumn (March - May)

Mild temperatures, vibrant foliage, and wine harvest festivals make autumn a great time to visit Victoria.

Winter (June - August)

Cool temperatures, occasional snowfall, and opportunities for winter sports and enjoying cozy indoor activities.

Spring (September - November)

Bright blooms, pleasant weather, and nature rejuvenating make spring an ideal season to explore Victoria.

Victoria at Night

Nightlife in Victoria, Chile offers a charming and vibrant experience despite its small-town atmosphere. Once the sun sets, the town reveals a rich array of activities suitable for various tastes. Local bars and pubs serve as popular meeting spots, where residents and visitors can enjoy Chilean beers, regional wines, and handcrafted cocktails. Many of these establishments feature live music, showcasing local talents who play anything from traditional Latin rhythms to contemporary hits. Restaurants in Victoria come alive in the evening, offering a diverse range of cuisines. From traditional Chilean dishes like empanadas and pastel de choclo to international fare, dining out is a culinary adventure. Street food vendors also provide late-night snacks, adding to the town's gastronomic appeal. While Victoria may not boast large nightclubs, it makes up for it with community events and cultural gatherings. The town plaza often becomes a hub for social interaction, where local festivals, fairs, and spontaneous dance performances can occur. For those who enjoy a quieter night, a stroll through the town's well-lit streets and parks can be scenic and relaxing. Victoria’s sense of community and tradition ensures that any night out is welcoming and enriching. Although the nightlife may not be as bustling as in larger cities, the town’s warm and friendly atmosphere guarantees a memorable experience.

Hiking in Victoria

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Parque Nacional Vicente Pérez Rosales

A stunning national park featuring beautiful landscapes, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna. It offers various hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty.

Laguna del Laja National Park

Located approximately 80 km from Victoria, this park is known for its striking lagoons and mountain scenery. It offers scenic hiking trails with views of the Andes.

Volcán Llaima

One of the most active volcanoes in Chile, Llaima offers several hiking routes that lead to breathtaking views and unique volcanic landscapes.

Conguillio National Park

Home to ancient Araucaria trees and stunning volcanic landscapes, this park provides numerous hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging, ideal for all adventure levels.

Reserva Nacional Malalcahuello

A protected area known for its diverse ecosystems and scenic beauty. It features hiking trails that pass through ancient forests and offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Aiports

How to reach Victoria by plane.

Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL)

Located in Santiago, this is the main international airport serving Chile.

Cerro Moreno International Airport (ANF)

An international airport located in Antofagasta, serving northern Chile.

La Araucanía International Airport (ZCO)

Located in Temuco, this airport serves the southern region of Chile, including the area around Victoria.

Punta Arenas International Airport (PUQ)

An international airport in Punta Arenas, serving the southernmost region of Chile.

Diego Aracena International Airport (IQQ)

Located in Iquique, this airport serves the northern part of Chile.

Walkability

Walkability in certain urban areas can vary significantly based on infrastructure, street design, and the presence of amenities. In places like Victoria, Chile, the walkability is influenced by factors such as pedestrian-friendly pathways, accessibility to public transportation, and the proximity of essential services like shops, parks, and schools. The downtown area typically features a mix of commercial establishments, making it relatively easy for residents to access everyday necessities on foot. Sidewalks are present in many parts of the city, although their quality can fluctuate. Green spaces and plazas provide gathering spots and enhance the walkable environment. However, as with many cities, certain neighborhoods might still pose challenges for pedestrians. Factors such as road congestion, limited crossings, or a lack of sufficient signage can affect the overall walking experience. Efforts to improve walkability often include enhancing pedestrian zones, increasing the number of crosswalks, and promoting active transportation initiatives. In summary, while there are aspects of walkability that are beneficial for residents and visitors in Victoria, like accessibility to key services and community spaces, ongoing improvements can contribute to a more pedestrian-friendly environment.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mapuche

The largest indigenous group in the region, with a rich cultural heritage and historical significance.

Ladino

A demographic group comprising those of mixed indigenous and European ancestry, often speaking Spanish.

European-descended Chileans

Individuals of European, primarily Spanish, descent who form part of the population in Victoria.

Mestizos

People of mixed indigenous and European ancestry, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Victoria, Chile, with many local teams and a strong fanbase.

Rugby

Rugby has a growing community in Victoria, with local clubs and schools promoting the sport.

Basketball

Basketball is widely played among youth and in schools, with various leagues and teams in the area.

Athletics

Athletics is popular in schools and local events, encouraging participation in various track and field activities.

Volleyball

Volleyball is commonly played in schools and recreational leagues, attracting many participants.

Traffic

The traffic in this small city can be characterized by a mix of local vehicles, buses, and occasional heavy trucks due to its proximity to surrounding agricultural areas. The streets are often punctuated by pedestrians, especially near schools and local markets, contributing to the bustling atmosphere during peak hours. Throughout the day, congestion can build up in the central areas, particularly during morning and afternoon commutes. While the city does not face the severe traffic problems seen in larger urban centers, residents often experience delays due to roadwork or the presence of livestock, which can momentarily obstruct traffic flow. Parking can be a challenge in busy areas, with limited spaces available. Nonetheless, the overall traffic tends to flow at a moderate pace, largely influenced by the rhythm of daily life in a smaller community. During weekends, local events can also lead to increased activity on the roads, as residents and visitors alike explore the attractions and natural beauty surrounding the region.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Victoria.

Hotels Apartments

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

While traditional Chilean cuisine heavily features meat, many restaurants and cafes in Victoria now offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. La Marmita and El Sabor de Victoria are known for their innovative plant-based creations.

Gluten-Free Dining

Visitors with gluten sensitivities can indulge in safe dining experiences at establishments like El Rincon Sin Gluten, which specializes in authentic gluten-free versions of Chilean classics like empanadas and pastries.

Healthcare

The healthcare system in this city is part of the broader healthcare framework in Chile, which is characterized by a mix of public and private services. Chile's healthcare system is known for its dual approach, where citizens can access healthcare through the public system, known as Fonasa, or through private insurance, known as Isapre. In the public sector, healthcare services are provided by a network of hospitals and clinics that are government-funded. These institutions aim to provide comprehensive care to the population, including primary care, specialized services, and emergency services. The public system is designed to be accessible to all citizens, albeit with varying wait times and resource availability. On the other hand, the private healthcare system offers a range of services, often with shorter wait times and more immediate access to specialists. Individuals who opt for private care typically do so through health insurance plans that can vary in coverage and cost. In Victoria, residents have access to basic healthcare services including primary care and some specialist services. Local health centers play a vital role in providing preventive care, vaccinations, maternal and child health services, and management of chronic diseases. However, for more specialized treatments, residents may seek services in larger urban centers or hospitals. Overall, while the healthcare services in Victoria aim to provide essential care, residents may experience differences in quality and access based on whether they are utilizing public or private healthcare options. The Chilean government continues to work on improving healthcare access and quality across both sectors to ensure a healthier population.

Discover Chile

Read more in our Chile 2024 Travel Guide.

Chile Travel Guide