Chile deserves all the travel hype, this country is full of epic things to do from the tippy top all the way to the bottom. The country is so rich and diverse that it’s impossible to experience everything in one trip. That’s why we’ve created this ultimate guide to help you plan your dream Chilean adventure.

Of course, there are the more popular tourist attractions like Easter Island, Patagonia, and the Atacama Desert, but Chile has so much more to offer than just these top spots. This guide will give you insight into some of the lesser-known gems as well. And I can’t say this enough: Now is the time to go! So let’s start planning. Here are the best things to do in Chile.

Highlights Of This Guide To Chile

  • Discover the must-see attractions in Chile, designed for travelers who want to be outdoors and explore the country’s landscapes.
  • Explore Chile’s stunning geography, from the Atacama Desert to the stunning mountains of Torres del Paine National Park. 
  • A curated list of the best accommodations in each region, along with recommendations for top tours. 
  • Handy tips to simplify your trip planning for Chile. 
  • Insider information to help you maximize your time in this beautiful country.

TOP TIPS FOR TRAVELING TO CHILE

  • Where to stay: Hotel Las Torres is an excellent location within Torres del Paine National Park. We use Booking.com for all of our stays and use the Genius discount to get great deals on our hotel bookings. Alternatively, you can always see if hotel corporate codes might work for you.
  • Must pack item: A winter coat or wind breaker is a must for those high altitude areas, especially if going in the cooler months like we did.
  • Recommended tour: A stargazing tour is an absolute must if you plan in going to the Atacama Desert. You’ll see the stars like you never have before!
  • Car rentals – If you decide to rent a car during your adventures in Chile save money with car rental coupon codes. We always start our search with Discover Cars and RentalCars so we know what the best deals are.
  • Flights – If you are flying in from elsewhere use the Skyscanner “Everywhere” feature to find the best deals from your local airport. Check how much it would be for you to get to Chile!
  • Insurance – Not always required but always recommended! Make sure you’re covered with the best travel insurance. Our go to is HeyMondo.
  • Hottest deals – Never be without our frequently updated travel deals page.

📚Chile Mini Guide📚

Best Places to Visit in Chile📍

Must Do Activities 🎉

  • Stay at a cozy hotel in Patagonia! 
  • Hike the stunning Torres del Paine National Park. 
  • Visit the historic Plaza de Armas in Santiago. 
  • Explore the Atacama Desert’s otherworldly landscapes. 🌵 
  • Discover Valparaíso’s colorful street art and bohemian culture. 
  • Go wine tasting in the beautiful vineyards of Maipo Valley. 🍷
  • See the mysterious Moai statues on Easter Island. 
  • Try traditional Chilean dishes like empanadas, pastel de choclo, and asado.

What to Pack 🧳✨

Best Hotels 🏨

Best Things To Do In Chile

alpaca standing on rocky hillside in patagonia

Chile is usually overlooked by Argentina and Peru when it comes to top destinations in South America, but don’t let that fool you.

Chile is on the rise as a travel hot spot and we’ve got everything you need to know to make the most out of your trip.

From stunning natural beauty and awesome outdoor activities to delicious food and wine, Chile might just become your favorite holiday destination.

CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE
1 Month Chile Itinerary - Patagonia, Atacama, and Easter Island Adventure

Explore Torres Del Paine National Park’s Iconic W Trek

w trek french valley hike

Starting big with one of the most popular things to do in Chile—the W Trek. Located in Torres del Paine National Park, this multi-day hike takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in South America. It’s seriously out of this world how gorgeous this place is!

The 4 to 5-day trek covers around 50 miles and offers views of glaciers, mountains, lakes, and the iconic granite towers that give the park its name. And with it being so remote and a little bit more of a challenge to get to, you’ll look around and have that sense of awe, accomplishment, and even a little bit of “this can’t be real” attitude.

Now, when we spent a month in Chile, we actually opted out of the W Trek (I know, we’re terrible) but we had good reason! After doing loads of research, we realized we could see quite a bit of the trek while visiting other parts of the park without sacrificing too much. And we were keen on seeing a variety of things, so that was the game plan. To do this, we opted to signup for Chile Nativo, a 5 day guided hike through the parks most popular spots.

Our 10-day Patagonia Itinerary was the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and relaxation. So if that sounds more like you than trekking for a week straight, you have to check out our guide. We also dive into why there’s more to Torres del Paine than just the W Trek.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

The W Trek

Chile Nativo:

  • Duration and Distance: 5 days, covering approximately 50 miles (80 kilometers).
  • Elevation Gain: 8,956 ft / 2,730  meters.
  • Price: $2,495 per person.
  • Highlights on the W Trek:
    • Trek to the Three Towers Lookout
    • See Los Cuernos & Other Jaw Dropping Peaks
    • Hike in Pristine Landscapes Inhabited by Wild Patagonian Fauna
    • Trek the French Valley
    • See Hanging Glaciers and Possible Avalanches
    • Boat Trip to Grey Glacier’s Icy Wall
    • Optional Ice hike on Grey Glacier or Kayaking in Grey Lake
  • Best Time to Go: The ideal time for the W Trek is during the Patagonian summer months, from November to March. The weather will be warmer and more conducive to hiking during this time. However, keep in mind that the park can get quite crowded during peak season.
  • Difficulty Level: The W Trek is considered a moderate to challenging hike. While it doesn’t require any technical climbing skills, you will need to be physically fit and prepared for long days of hiking and camping.
  • Booking in Advance: Given the popularity of the W Trek, it’s essential to book accommodation and park permits well in advance, especially during peak season. I’m talking 2-6 months in advance.
  • Guided vs. Independent Trekking: If you are an avid hiker, and are okay to meticulously plan (don’t worry, I see you) every detail of your trip, then independent trekking may be a good option for you. However, if hiking isn’t your forte, or you haven’t done that many multi-day hikes then I really recommend a guide.
  • Hiking Direction: You can do the W Trek in either direction, starting from the base of the W or from the end. I recommend starting at the towers, that way you are always hiking toward the views vs away from them. But that’s just a personal preference!
  • Tips:
    • Be prepared for all weather conditions as things can change very quickly. Torres del Paine is also notoriously windy so you’ll always want a good shell jacket handy.
    • Investing in and bringing your own compact hiking poles is worth it.
    • The Patagonia segment is certainly the most intense part of the trip as the days are packed and quite active. What will help tremendously is having a good organizing system for your luggage and having a hiking backpack that’ll handle your needs.
    • For the photographers out there, we highly recommend the Shimoda Action X series of bags. Having a backpack that can integrate with a hydration bladder makes a difference.
    • Don’t forget to take advantage of the custom-negotiated discounts and offers we have with Chile Nativo and Hotel Las Torres! Read our Torres del Paine itinerary and travel guide for all the details.
CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE
Patagonia Packing List - Detailed Guide With Essentials and Tips

Where To Stay In Torres Del Paine National Park

Hotel Las Torres – Located right at the base of the towers, this hotel offers stunning views and easy access to the hiking trails. They have traditional and all-inclusive stay options.

Make sure not to miss our full review of Hotel Las Torres! Promotion inside!

Visit the Atacama Desert

view of the atacama desert at sunset

Another big one, and personally we think it’s a must-do, is visiting the Atacama Desert. Located in northern Chile, it’s known as one of the driest deserts in the world and offers some truly unique landscapes.

This is what we love about Chile, in one part of the country you have these larger-than-life glaciers, and then you head to one of the driest parts of the world. It’s mind-blowing how diverse it is, and if you love the outdoors and nature, Chile is going to rock your world!

One of the best things to do in the Atacama Desert is to wait for nightfall and witness the stars in all their glory. It’s one of the best places in the world for stargazing, with minimal light pollution and clear skies. It’s literally called the “Clearest Night Sky” so, you know it’s gotta be epic!

We decided to book a stargazing tour and we’re so glad we did. We learned so much from our guide and got an astronomy lesson under the stars. He had multiple telescopes for us to look through and it was incredible seeing the moon, planets, and clusters of stars up close.

Aside from stargazing, there are plenty of outdoor activities to do in the Atacama Desert such as sandboarding, visiting geysers and hot springs, and exploring the unique rock formations and salt flats. It’s also a popular spot for wildlife watching, with flamingos, llamas, and vicuñas roaming around.

You can rent a car to road trip on your own or join a guided tour for a more in-depth experience. We chose to do it ourselves and had a blast driving around and discovering the various landscapes. You can check out how we spent 6 days in the Atacama Desert for more in depth details on what all we tried!

CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE
San Pedro de Atacama Travel Guide in Chile

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

  • The Atacama Desert is approximately 1,600 kilometers (about 1,000 miles) north of Santiago, Chile.
  • Travel Option: Flying into Santiago and then taking a domestic flight to Calama is the easiest way to get there.
    • Flight Time: 2 Hours

From Calama Airport to San Pedro de Atacama:

  • Take the bus from the airport to the main bus terminal in the city center.
    • Distance: 4.5km.
  • From the main bus terminal, take a bus to San Pedro de Atacama.
    • Travel Time: 1 Hour.
  • Or take a taxi straight from the airport, it will save you about 30 minutes but cost you more money.
  • Car Rental:  You can also rent a car at the airport and drive to San Pedro de Atacama, which is what we did.

Stargazing Tour

  • Website: Atacama Desert Stargazing
  • Address: Jorge offers to pick you up at your hotel and will drive you to his house just outside of town.
  • Hours: This changes depending on the time of year. For our tour in September, our pick-up was at 8:40PM.
  • Price: The traditional Astronomical Tour (TAT) is $100 USD, SAT 1 Special Astronomical Tour is $130 USD, and the SAT 2 Special Astronomical Tour is $180 USD per person.
  • What you’ll like about this activity:
    • The tour starts with an astronomy class covering essential history and terms.
    • With impressive telescopes, you’ll see Saturn’s rings and Jupiter’s spots up close.
    • There’s no minimum booking, so you could enjoy a private tour.
    • Food provided: including sandwiches, crepes, and hot drinks, with alcohol available.
  • Tips:
    • There are quite a number of astronomy tours in San Pedro de Atacama but if you’re looking for someone who is truly passionate about stargazing and has the knowledge and equipment to back it up, this is the tour to book.
    • The term “Atacama Desert Stargazing” is quite generic which makes them hard to find. There are also many other products with similar names so don’t confuse them with Jorge’s.
    • The tour names can be confusing between TAT, SAT 1, SAT 2, and others. The main difference between them is the stargazing time and how in-depth Jorge is able to get in his astronomy class. As a result, TAT is great for beginners, SAT 1 for those who want to go a bit more in-depth, and SAT 2 for advanced watchers.
    • No matter what time of the year, it gets quite cold at night so be sure to wear a jacket, gloves, and a toque/beanie. They have a portable heater and blanket but it’s best to have your own layers.
    • This is not an astrophotography tour. While there is some time dedicated to it and Jorge can provide some guidance, this is definitely not his expertise.
      • The tours do not run 3 nights before and after the full moon. As a result, it may be worth it to consider which dates you will be in the Atacama Desert.
    • March to September (Chile’s winter) is the best time for stargazing here.
    • The time for the tour is an approximation. Using ours as an example, TAT 1 is only supposed to be 2.5-3 hours but we spent close to 5 hours with Jorge. He is quite generous with his time.
    • No deposit is required upfront. You pay at the end of the tour and he accepts credit cards. Payment can be either in CLP or USD.
    • For photographers who want to do astrophotography, make sure to pack everything you need and have the settings prepared ahead of time. This part of the tour is quite short.
    • A headlamp is helpful but not necessary. Use one that preferably has a red light so it doesn’t disrupt your eyes that have adjusted to the night sky.
    • Avoid booking afternoon tours on the day of (in case they run late) and early morning tours the next day (this tour runs quite late into the evening).
    • Try to book this tour on the first night of your trip because if it’s cloudy, you can reschedule it for a different day.

Where To Stay In The Atacama Desert

Casa Lickana B&B – Just 200 meters from the San Pedro main square, this budget-friendly bed and breakfast offers a cozy stay and even a hot spring to soak in under the stars.

Hostal Campo Base – Solo travelers will love this stay, with great common spaces to meet others. And it’s just a 5-minute walk from the bus so that 25lb backpack will be manageable.

Hoteles Pueblo de Tierra – Great price and location, with a variety of room options including private rooms and dorms. They also offer tours and activities.

Go Wine Tasting In Maipo Valley

chilean carmenere wine

If you love a good glass of vino, Chile might be your dream destination. The country is home to some of the best wine regions in South America, and Maipo Valley is one of them.

Located just an hour from Santiago, Maipo Valley produces some of the finest red wines in Chile. It’s also known for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenere grapes. I mean, it’s almost a crime to be this close to a world-renowned wine region and not have a sip or two.

There are multiple wineries in the region, and because of its close proximity to the capital city, it makes for an easy day trip. We had such a blast joining a day tour from Santiago, we sipped on all different types of red wine, were able to walk through the vineyards, and of course, ate some tasty empanadas.

Here are a few of the top wineries to check out in Maipo Valley:

  • Concha y Toro: one of the biggest and most well-known, they offer tours and tastings as well as a beautiful garden and shop.
  • Santa Rita: this winery offers both standard and premium tours, along with a bike tour option through their vineyards.
  • Perez Cruz: known for its modern architecture, this boutique winery has some of the best views outside its door.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

  • Santiago to Maipo Valley: 1 hour drive (approx.)
  • Best time to visit: year-round, but harvest season is from March to May.
  • Cost: varies by winery and type of tour, expect around $20-40 USD per person for a standard tour with tasting.

Santiago: Maipo Valley Wine Tasting Tour with 4 Vineyards

  • Meeting Point: Hotel Pickup and Drop off.
  • Start Time: 7:30AM.
  • Tour Length: 10 hrs.
  • Cost: $149.00.
  • What’s Included:
    • Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle.
    • Guide.
    • Visit 4 wineries.
    • 3 wine tastings.
    • 2 vineyard tours.

Where To Stay In Santiago

Eco-Hostal Tambo Verde – A budget-friendly option in the heart of Santiago, this eco-hostel offers comfortable rooms and a laid-back atmosphere.

BHB Hotel Boutique – This mid-range stay is perfect for those who want somewhere clean and comfortable without spending a fortune.

Visit The Coastal City Of Valparaiso

housing in between narrow streets of valparaiso
Image via Unsplash by celso costa

While the beaches of Chile aren’t really on travelers’ radar, this coastal city definitely needs to be. Valparaiso is such a unique destination outside of Santiago and it’s a great little day trip to take. This colorful town has a bohemian vibe and charm that really isn’t anywhere else in the country.

It’s so interesting, from certain angles it almost gives a San Francisco vibe but with bright colors and European architecture—maybe it’s just the hills, ha I don’t know. But Valparaiso is actually a UNESCO World Heritage site because of its unique architecture and cultural significance.

In the 19th Century, Valparaiso was a major port for ships traveling between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Bringing over an influx of immigrants from around the world, including many Europeans. This is why you’ll see such a mix of architectural styles and influences throughout the city.

There’s also a strong artistic community in Valparaiso which can be seen through the numerous street art murals and galleries scattered throughout the town. You’ll definitely want to take some time to just wander aimlessly or even take a tour through the colorful streets, taking it all in.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

  • Santiago to Valparaiso: 1.5 hour drive (approx.)
  • Best time to visit: year-round, but peak tourist season is from October to April.
  • Best streets for art:
    • Hector Calvo – start at the bottom of the steps.
    • Elias
    • Atahualpa – Next to Elias Street.
    • Templeman
    • Carillo Armstrong – Views!!!
    • Miraflores

Tips for visiting Valparaiso:

  • Wear comfortable shoes, the city is built on 42 hills so there will be lots of walking and climbing involved.
  • Take a funicular ride for a scenic view of the city.
  • Try some local seafood dishes, as Valparaiso is known for its fresh seafood.
  • Visit Pablo Neruda’s house, La Sebastiana, which has been turned into a museum showcasing his life and works.
  • Take safety precautions, the city has a lot of little alleyways and staircases that can be dangerous at night.
  • Join a walking tour or hire a guide to learn more about the city’s history and culture.
  • Don’t miss out on exploring the nearby beach town of Viña del Mar, known for its beautiful beaches.

Santiago: Vina Del Mar, Valparaiso, Casablanca & Reñaca Tour

  • Meeting Point: Hotel Pickup and Drop off in Santiago.
  • Start Time: 7:00AM.
  • Tour Length: 10 hrs.
  • Cost: $40.00.
  • What’s Included:
    • Small-group tours conducted in English, Spanish, or Portuguese.
    • Stop in the Curacavi Valley for a courtesy wine and olive oil tasting.
    • See the colorful houses in the coastal city of Valparaiso.
    • Relax in the parks and gardens in the popular Vina del Mar.

Visit Easter Island And See The Famous Moai Statues

ahu tongariki moai platform at sunrise on easter island in 1 month chile itinerary

When we were planning our trip to Chile, it was for one reason, and one reason only. Okay well, that’s not true, but Easter Island was definitely high on our list! Located over 2,000 miles off the coast of Chile, Easter Island is a remote and mysterious island shrouded in history and legend—and we just had to see it!

I mean the giant moai statues are just legendary, they’re practically a bucket list item on their own. These massive stone figures were created by the native Rapa Nui people, and over 900 of them can be found scattered across the island. It’s truly an incredible sight to see. Some of them stand at around 33 feet tall and weigh over 80 tons! It’s still unknown how the Rapa Nui people were able to move these massive statues from the quarry to their final resting place, making it all the more mysterious and fascinating.

But besides the moai, Easter Island offers so much more to explore. The island is so raw and undeveloped that it’s like stepping into a world without mass tourism or commercialization. The island is full of laid-back beaches, amazing hiking trails, and a rich cultural history. It’s truly a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Chile.

To get to Easter Island, you must take a flight from Santiago, Chile. It’s the only way to reach the island and can be quite expensive. However, it is worth every penny. Once on the island, there are guided tours available or you can rent a car or bike to explore on your own. Just make sure to plan enough time for your visit as there’s so much to see and experience in this remote paradise.

Check out our Comprehensive Guide to Easter Island for a full breakdown of where to stay, what to do, and just how much it will cost you.

CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE
9 Day Easter Island Itinerary - Moai Magic and More

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

How to Get to Easter Island

  • Flight from Santiago to Easter Island.
    • Flight Time: 4hrs and 25mins.
    • LATAM Airlines is the only one that flies to Easter Island.
    • There are a limited number of flights per week.
  • Buy your national park pass online.
  • Stay awhile – Many itineraries will point you in the direction of staying 2-3 days, but having done our own 9-day itinerary of Easter Island, we’d say 6-9 days allows you to thoroughly see the best of Rapa Nui.
  • Clothes to pack for Easter Island:
    • Windbreaker jacket – Once the sun goes down, you’ll start feeling the chill. On stormy days, it can get quite blustery on the island. So it’s always a good idea to have a windbreaker type of jacket or shell with you.
    • Layers – Temperatures can vary from day to day and from daytime to night time. It’s handy to have a thin fleece like the Arc’teryx Kyanite Lightweight Hoody in case it gets chilly.
    • Hooded long-sleeved sun shirts – The sun is pretty strong and there isn’t a lot of cover on Easter Island. The long-sleeved and breathable Echo Hoodie is excellent.
    • A good hat – We always go for the Arc’teryx Grotto Toque.
    • Shorts and Swimsuit – Pack these for the beach and if you plan on scuba diving.
CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE
Guide for How To Get To Easter Island

Where To Stay In Easter Island

Takarua Lodge – With just 7 suites, this lodge is the perfect spot for a secluded and intimate stay on Easter Island. Located a 20-minute walk to town but wake up with Easter Island as your backyard!

Inaki Uh Hotel – Recently renovated, this stay is centrally located on Easter Island and offers modern amenities and comfortable rooms at a low price. And from the reviews, the internet is super speedy!

Eat All The Chilean Dishes You Can

One of our favorite parts about traveling is all the delicious food you get to try. And Chile is no exception! While a lot of the countries in South America, Brazil, Peru, and Argentina are heavy hitters in the food department. We’d say Chile is up there with some of the best too.

Now, not every dish we had in Chile was a hit, but let me tell you, the ones that did. WOW! Probably some of the best empanadas we’ve ever had were from a local shop on Easter Island of all places. And let’s not forget about Chilean seafood, especially their famous ceviche. The ones on Easter Island were perfectly fresh and full of flavor.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Must-try dishes in Chile:

  • Empanadas:
    • First things first – you need to try empanadas when you’re in Chile! You might also see or hear the name “pino” for these. They are always baked and never fried, which is much nicer on the tummy, ha! These savory pockets of goodness are filled with various ingredients like cheese, meat, or vegetables. Perfect for vegetarians!
    • You can find them at street vendors, restaurants, and even grocery stores. We were having at least one a day for a month—good thing we were hiking so much!
  • Pastel de Choclo:
    • This traditional Chilean dish consists of a creamy corn filling topped with beef, chicken, or both. It’s then baked in an earthenware dish until golden brown. This hearty meal is perfect for a cold, rainy day and is full of flavor.
  • Asado:
    • Woof! If you’re a big meat eater then this is your dream dish. Asado, a slow-roasted BBQ meat dish is extremely popular in Chile and can be found at most restaurants. The meat is usually marinated with herbs and spices for several hours before being cooked over hot coals.
  • Ceviche:
    • As mentioned earlier, ceviche is a must-try when in Chile! It’s a refreshing seafood dish made with raw fish marinated in citrus juices, chopped onions, chili peppers, and cilantro. It’s perfect for a hot day at the beach or as an appetizer before dinner.

Explore Chiloé Island

wooden dock on chiloé island
Image via Unsplash by Jaime Arrieta

If you’re looking for something unique and a little off the beaten path, make sure to visit Chiloé Island. Located in the South, this Island is seriously underrated and often overlooked by tourists. It’s most famous for the way the local people built their houses and buildings out of wood and tin. They all sit high over the water on stilts—making for some amazing photos!

In the 1500s, the Spanish tried to convert the natives of this island, but the locals held onto their beliefs pretty strongly. Although they resisted, at one point there were literally 150 churches on Chiloe Island, we know, it’s a lot! Today 16 of these wooden churches are protected by UNESCO and are pretty cool to visit.

Besides the interesting architecture, Chiloé Island has some pretty cool things to see and do around the island. Chiloé National Park is a great spot for hiking and birdwatching, while Punihuil Beach is the perfect place to see penguins in their natural habitat—yes, penguins!

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

How to Get to Chiloé Island:

  • Santiago to Chiloe Island – 1,200km South.
    • By Plane: Fly from Santiago to Puerto Montt.
      • Flight time: 1 hour and 45 minutes.
    • From Puerto Montt, you can take a ferry or bus to the island.
      • The trip takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by ferry or 3 hours by bus.
    • Additional Flight Option: Fly directly from Santiago to Castro, central Chiloé. 
      • Flight: 2 hours, operating 2 to 3 times daily.
      • Availability: Only operational during the peak months of January, February, and March.
      • By Bus: 14 Hours with overnight bus options to save money.

Where To Stay On Chiloe Island

Alma Chilota – Enjoy gorgeous sea views, delicious breakfasts, and cozy rooms at this charming bed and breakfast located in Castro.

Hotel y Cabanas Terrazas – With some of the best ratings on the island, this hotel has beautiful views of the sea and mountains. Located at the top of the bay, guests can enjoy a peaceful and relaxing stay while still being close.

Go Hiking Or Kayaking In The Stunning Chilean Lake District

view of villarrica volcano covered in snow from across lake
Image via Unsplash by Peter Burdon

We were blown away by the beauty of the Lake District in Chile. With white-capped volcanoes all around and beautiful clear waters, it’s seriously breathtaking. The Lake District is a region in southern Chile bordering Argentina and if you like the outdoors, boy are you about to be in heaven!

Hiking in the Lake District is an incredible experience that allows you to fully immerse yourself in nature. There are a lot of different trails that are good for all levels of hikers, from beginners to advanced trekkers. You can choose from easy walks around the lakes or more challenging hikes up into the mountains with breathtaking views.

One of the coolest hiking spots in the Lake District is Villarrica Volcano, you can hike up or even ski down this active volcano near Pucon—it’s epic! Being so close to such a powerful natural wonder will make you feel like a speck on the earth, and the most awesome person in the world at the same time. And if you’ve done some pretty cool hikes, you know the feeling!

There are several guided tours you can book to see the volcano, so be sure to check those out. This one allows you to sled down the volcano if it’s snowy enough!

Kayaking is another must-do in the Lake District. Check out Lago Todos los Santos. It’s famous for its amazing emerald-green waters and the beautiful scenery around it. Whether you want to kayak or just chill and connect with nature, this is the perfect spot.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

  • The Lake District Size – 600 Miles in Length.
  • Where to Hike: 3 main national parks:
    • Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park – This park is the oldest in Chile and is famous for its amazing volcanic landscapes, like the Osorno and Tronador volcanoes, and the Petrohué Falls.
    • Huerquehue National Park – Famous for its araucaria forests and lakes such as Lago Verde, The trails will take you through ancient forests and along beautiful lake shores.
    • Villarrica National Park – Home to the epic Villarrica Volcano, this park is perfect for adventurous hikes and skiing. Enjoy the amazing volcanic scenery and relax in hot springs tucked away in the terrain.
  • How long to visit: 3 to 6 nights.
  • Best time to visit: July to April.
  • Reason to Visit: Kayaking, Hiking and Skiing.

Where To Stay In The Lake District

Hotel Cabaña Del Lago Puerto Varas – Sitting right on the lake, every room offers stunning views of the volcanoes across the water. Rent a bike right from the hotel to explore the area!

Casa Azul Hostel – Located in Puerto Varas, this hostel offers budget-friendly stays with a cozy and welcoming vibe. Plus, it’s conveniently close to popular spots like Llanquihue Lake and the German Colonial Museum.

Luckys Hostel – The perfect stay in Pucon near the Villarrica National Park, a popular destination for outdoor activities like hiking and climbing. With its rustic charm and friendly staff, this hostel is a top choice for travelers.

Mini Packing Guide For Chile

Packing for Chile isn’t for the faint of heart. You will need a wide variety of clothes and gear for all the different activities you’ll be doing, and the ever-changing weather. Here’s a quick list of essential items to pack:

  • Hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes– This is an absolute must. You’ll want your shoes to be broken in and ready for all the long hikes you’ll be doing.
  • Quick-dry clothing
  • Waterproof jacket/Windbreaker
  • Layers! Layers! Layers! – From the desert to the mountains, the weather can change quickly. Dress in layers to stay comfortable and prepared for any temperature.
  • Sun protection – Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential as the sun can be strong at high altitudes.
  • Hiking poles – If you have the space, bring hiking poles to help with the steep inclines and rocky terrain. If not you can rent some in most national parks.
  • Swimwear – Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit for a dip in the hot springs or swimming in the crystal clear lakes.
  • Portable charger/power bank – Electricity may not be readily available during hikes and camping trips, so bring a portable charger to keep your devices charged.

Narrowing Down All The Things To Do In Chile

If you know me at all, you know I pour over research when I plan a trip. Chile was no exception, and I quickly realized that there were so many amazing things to do and see in this country. It’s how our one-week adventure turned into a full month!

After spending time exploring the country, I realized why the most popular things to do in Chile are the Golden Triangle: Atacama Desert, Easter Island, and Torres del Paine National Park. These three destinations are incredibly unique and unlike anything else in the world.

Fortunately, many other attractions are nearby or along the way to these spots. If you have the time, stop in Santiago en route to Easter Island or drive through the Lake District on your way to Torres del Paine. Choose what you can’t miss and save the rest for your next visit!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the #1 tourist attraction in Chile?

The Torres del Paine National Park is considered the #1 tourist attraction in Chile. It receives the most visitors annually.

How long do I need in Chile?

There is so much to see and do in Chile as a result of its geography and so this really depends on how much you’d like to include in your itinerary. If you’re hoping to do Patagonia, the Atacama Desert, and Easter Island, you will easily need at least 3 weeks, and ideally a full month.

Is Chile expensive?

Chile is one of the more expensive South American countries, and a lot of the attractions and experiences can come with a hefty price tag. However, there are also plenty of budget-friendly options available, especially if you plan ahead and do some research.

How big is Chile?

Chile may not be a big country, but it’s super long, which leads to some really different geological and ecological regions from the north to the south. It spans 756,096 square kilometers (291,930 sq mi) and has a population of almost 20 million.

When is the best time of year to go to Chile?

The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons when there are fewer crowds compared to the peak months. This means April to June and October to December. Plus, it’s when prices are usually lower!

Travel Resources For Your Next Trip

If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100%.

Credit cards: Don’t get burned by hidden fees on top of terrible exchange rates. When we travel now, we use the Wise Card. Simply load it with the currency you need before you go and use it as a regular VISA or their digital wallet card. Use their free app to track how much you have and top up when you need to.

Flights: Of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature. Kayak is also another that’s we will often check as well.

Car Rental: If you’re looking to save money, these car rental coupon codes will be a true game-changer. Otherwise, DiscoverCars and RentalCars are great places to start.

Rideshare: For new Lyft users, use code WILLIAM4825 to get 50% off your first 2 rides (max $10 USD per ride). Offer valid for 14 days after you take your first ride. For new Uber users, use code psuqbjg4d7rn for the same offer except it’s valid for 30 days.

Airport Parking: You’ll need a spot to leave your car at the airport so why not book a spot at a discount. Use code AWESOME7 to get at least $5 off at Airport Parking Reservations or Park Sleep Fly packages.

eSIM: Lately, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. We’ve tested several over the years and we have access to a few special promotions.

  • AmigoSIM – Use GOINGAWESOMEPLACES to save 25% off. Code is re-useable.
  • Gigsky – Use TANG149 to get $3 USD when you sign up, then use code GOINGAWESOME to save 20% on all eSIM orders.
  • KnowRoaming – Use code GAP10 to save 10%.
  • AloSIM – Use code GOINGAWESOMEPLACES to save 15%.
  • Airalo – Use referral code WILLIA9500 to get $3 USD credit on your first purchase.
  • UbigiAWESOME10 to save 10% on your first order.

Wifi Hotspot: We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices such as PokeFi (use code GAP24300) because their rates are are hard to beat and it works globally. Solis is another that we recommend. Pros are that you can share the wifi with your whole group but cons are that you have to invest in a device and you have to charge it every night.

Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts. Expedia is also worth using especially with their One Key rewards program which is basically like cash. The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. Always do a quick check on TripAdvisor as well.

Vacation Rentals: Your first instinct will be to check Airbnb but we always recommend checking VRBO as well if you’re looking for a vacation rental (now eligible for One Key).

Tours and Activities: When planning our trips, we always check both Viator and GetYourGuide to at least see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to. They often have different offerings and prices so check both.

Travel Insurance: Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.

  • HeyMondo – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks. By booking through our link to get a 15% discount (from June 19-29)!
  • RATESDOTCA – Search engine Canadians looking for the cheapest insurance including multi-trip annual policies.
  • SafetyWing – A perfect fit for long-term nomads.
  • Medjet – Global air medical transportation.
  • InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.

If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.

William Tang of Going Awesome Places
About The Author

Will Tang

Will Tang, founder of Going Awesome Places, has traveled to 51 countries. He shares his insanely detailed itineraries, travel guides, and packing lists. Will’s travels have been featured on Huffington Post, Men’s Journal, and Entrepreneur.

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