Chile: Updates & Travel

Travel in Chile?
Updates Chile

Travel in Chile?

This exceptionally long country, enclosed between the Andes and the Pacific Ocean, is approximately 4,300 kilometers long and on average only 175 kilometers wide. Due to this strange shape, the country has many different types of nature: from lake areas to desert (Atacama) and from beaches (La Serena) to ski resorts in the Andes. Since the resignation of the controversial Augusto Pinochet in 1990, Chile has grown into one of the richest and most stable countries in South America.
Take a long hike through the Paine massif that towers above the Patagonian steppe. The most famous peaks of Torres del Paine are the Torres and the Cuernos. These granite towers are located on the east side of the park. The Grey glacier is also worth a visit.
Marvel at the Atacama desert. This is one of the driest deserts in the world. It offers a combination of rugged landscapes such as salt flats and ancient cultures. The city of San Pedro de Atacama is located in the middle of the desert, at an altitude of 2,400 metres.
Relax and swim in the far north of Chile, in the coastal town of Arica. Inland lies the Lauca National Park. The area around the town of Putre is one of the roughest areas in Chile.
Enjoy the delicious Chilean wine. The Chilean wine regions are located around the capital Santiago de Chile. The conditions for wine growing are favourable here: a dry climate and lots of sunlight. Few pesticides are needed, which is why many organic wines in Europe come from Chile.
Take beautiful trips along the Chilean volcanic lakes. Halfway between Santiago de Chile and Patagonia lies the lake district of Chile. Here lie the volcanic giants such as the famous Osorno volcano. In clear weather, the snow-capped peaks can be seen. The most beautiful lake tour starts in the city of Puerto Varas on Lago Llanquihue.
Go skiing in one of the ski resorts in the Andes such as Portillo, Valle Nevado and Termas de Chillán which are a few hours from the beach resorts.
Go surfing in South America's best surf spot: Pichilemu.
La Serena is the second oldest city in Chile (founded in 1544) and consists mainly of colonial houses. The white beaches that are nearby are especially worth a visit for a day of rest.
Easter Island is located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, 3,800 kilometers from Santiago de Chile. The island is one of the largest cultural attractions in Chile. How the large statues on Easter Island came to be is still a mystery. Read more about Easter Island.
Lauca National Park is located in the north of Chile, in the Andes. The park is very large and is dominated by volcanoes. There are also several lakes in the park that lie at the foot of a volcano. The park has some beautiful places and is home to some beautiful animals such as alpacas, Andean goose, Andean condor, llamas and the Chilean flamingo.
Check it out: most Chilean cities have different types of markets. Each city has its 'Mercado Municipal'. This is usually a covered market that is open on weekdays. And where mainly food is sold, but also household goods and clothing.
Be aware that the distances in Chile are often very long due to the vastness of the country.
Chile is safe, but pickpockets are lurking everywhere.