Things to Do in Chile

Shared with Argentina, Patagonia is one of the most amazing regions in both countries. You can search for Patagonia tours that take care of the entire itinerary or just embark on the adventure with a group of friends. Either way, make sure you plan your trip for the peak summer months. The best time to visit Patagonia is October to November. The most popular attraction in this region is the Torres del Paine National Park. If time allows, you should definitely consider a Torres del Paine trek and there are three routes to choose from! Aside from this, you should also explore its southern, mysterious provinces of Magallanes, Última Esperanza, and Tierra del Fuego.

• Best time to visit: Spring (October to November) brings mild temperatures, and the flora and fauna comes alive. Summer (December to February) is the high season with great temperature and lots of tourists. Fall (March to May) is still a good time to visit, with slightly cooler temperature and less tourists around.
• Insider tip: Visit Torres del Paine National Park in the Indian summer (April). The trails are less crowded, the scenery is awesome and it is easier to observe wildlife and do bird watching. – by Christian Moser from Moser Active

Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a novice, the W trek is an unmissable experience in the Patagonian region of Chile. Also known as the W circuit, this iconic trail takes you through the heart of Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia to up-close encounters of Las Torres, the park's famed rock formations, alongside breathtaking vistas of glaciers, blue lakes, waterfalls, mountains, and forests. Chance spotting wildlife such as condors, guanacos, huemul, foxes and flamingos.

Spanning 60 kilometers hiked over 4–5 days, the W trek is categorized as a medium-difficulty trail. Itss accessibility and attractions (including the French Valley, Base of the Towers, Glacier Grey, and more) makes it appealing. Start your adventure from Refugio Paine Grande, journeying through well-marked trails to Hotel Torres, or opt for the reverse route for a different perspective. For a more challenging trek, try the O Circuit in Torres del Paine National Park.

• Best time to visit: For the best weather, tackle the W Trek during summer (November–March), which boasts sunny days with mild temperatures around 12–15°C (54–58°F). However, expect crowds on the trails and in accommodations. Alternatively, spring (September–November) is a good bet, though expect cooler nights at 1–3°C (34–37°F).

Valparaíso is one of the street art capitals of South America so, whether you are an art enthusiast, or just interested in the Chilean cultural background, visiting Valparaíso should be on your list of things to do in Chile. You can visit this charming port town all year round. Start a journey from Santiago to Valparaiso and have an enhanced street art experience, or join one of the available tours!

• Best time to visit: Spring (March to May) brings great weather, ideal for visiting the city and its coastal towns.
• Insider tip: When you are worn out exploring the many thousand street art in Valparaiso, take an icecream break at Emporio La Rosa. They claim to be one of the 25 best icecream shops in the world. Find out if it is true.

This spectacular canyon, on the western edge of the Andes, around two hours southeast of Santiago is a trekker’s paradise, offering amazing mountain scenery, and stunning landscapes. Many locals come here for a weekend escape, and it’s easy to see why. Amongst its natural beauty you will also find the marks of man at the reservoir of Embalse del Yeso, 2,500 meters above sea level. An incredible feat of engineering, which supplies water to Santiago and is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, it is a popular tourist attraction. There are many activities available in the region, from trekking, horse riding, skiing, and even wine tasting, and its close proximity to Santiago makes visiting the canyon easy if you have your own transport. You will also find plenty of tours to Cajon del Maipo from Santiago if you do not wish to navigate the place on your own.

After a hard day of activities relax in one of the many hot springs, the three main ones are at Banos Morales, Banos Colina and Termas El Plomo. The fully-staffed sights are a great destination to unwind!

• Best time to visit: All year around.
• Insider tip: Leave Santiago early, best by 8:00. Any time later and you will come across a lot of traffic. Drive a SUV or similar vehicle. The last 22 km is mountain road that is sinuous, gravelled and narrow. You will have to be a confident, experienced driver to tackle this stretch. If possible, avoid weekends in order to avoid local crowds. – Emanuel Villablanca from Stamp’s Tour.

Visitors on a trip to Chile often overlook Chile’s wine regions for more adventurous activities in Patagonia or the Lake District, but these areas are not only for seasoned oenophiles. They also offer more than just a selection of wine.

Spread throughout the length of Chile, every wine region gives visitors a sneak-peek into a different landscape, weather and activity the country has to offer. The cool, coastal Casablanca Valley flaunts endless rolling hills, adorned with lush vineyards and shades of green pastures. Known for its exceptional Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, the region’s wineries like Casas del Bosque and Viña Morandé promise palate-pleasing experiences with their signature varietals.

Venturing into the Maipo Valley unveils a picturesque oasis where verdant fields meet towering mountains. Let De Martino and Aquitania enchant you with their masterful blends of Cabernet Sauvignon and Carménère. Furthermore, the Elqui Valley captivates with its mystical allure, boasting vineyards set against a backdrop of celestial wonders. At Falernia and Cavas del Valle, visitors can savor the essence of Syrah and Sauvignon Blanc while immersing themselves in outdoor activities like hiking and stargazing, culminating in unforgettable experiences under the clear night sky.

In Colchagua Valley, savor Bordeaux varieties, while the Limarí Valley delights with Pinot Noir and Syrah. Toast to your next unforgettable journey through Chile's wondrous vineyards.

• Best time to visit: For wine connoisseurs, harvest seasons probably tip the scales for the best times to visit. White grapes are harvested the last week of February through mid-March, while red grapes are harvested from mid-March through late April.
• Insider tip: As with dinner times in Chile, visitors will likely find that food and drinks are served later than they might be accustomed to. Wine-drinking sessions are often accompanied by a dinner that can be served anywhere between 8 pm and midnight!
  

When in Chile, especially in Patagonia, one cannot leave without visiting one or all of its jaw-dropping glaciers. The glaciers are amongst the most impressive natural phenomenon in Chile, and each year thousands flock to view them and take part in the carefully organised tourist trade which seeks to safeguard the rapidly disappearing ice coverage. There are many impressive glaciers possible to visit. The Grey Glacier, in the southern Patagonia ice field, measures over 270 square km, and at 6 km wide and over 30 m in height it is an impressive sight. Further north, you’ll find the San Rafael Glacier, the closest tidewater glacier to the equator, covering an area of some 760 square km. Sadly, due to human environmental activity, the glaciers continue to shrink each year, yet they remain an impressive site, the last remnants of the ice age amongst us.

• Best time to visit: Spring (October to November). Winter will havejust ended, leaving the glaciers in great conditions.
• Insider tip: There is a new excursion available that visits a place called Canal de las montañas or 'Mountain channel'. The place is amazing, wild and visited by very few every year. In this excursion the visitors navigate through a fjord with 7 glaciers going down the mountains on either sides. – Francisco from Onteaiken Patagonia

While getting to Easter Island has its fair share of challenges, the fascinating land still manages to attract thousands of tourists in Chile every year. Discover the giant head statues called moai, that have shrouded this island in mystery since forever; spend your time in its pristine beaches, enjoy the distinct culture, there are so many reasons to visit Easter Island. Regardless of how long you decide to spend in the island, you are destined for a memorable stay while on a tour to Easter Island!

• Best time to visit: April to June and October to December. The weather is pleasant, it is less crowded, and the accommodation prices are lower than during high season.
• Insider tip: There are only a few ATMs in Hanga Roa. It is recommended you pull out cash before visiting other attractions, like Anakena beach where they only accept cash payments. You can pay with Chilean pesos and USD everywhere, as long as the USD is in really good condition and without any marks. — by Joaquin Bruna from Ecochile Travel 

Atacama Desert in Northern Chile is a place of many natural phenomenon, featuring moon-like terrain, salt lakes, hot springs, multi-colored rock formations, and snow-peaked mountains. But one of the most sought after attractions in Atacama Desert is undoubtedly the star studded night sky. The high altitude of Atacama Desert coupled with little to no pollution, and almost zero clouds, prepares for a night sky with the most majestic astronomical sightings! Book a tour to Atacama now.

• Best time to visit: April to June and October to December. The weather is pleasant, it is less crowded, and the accommodation prices are lower than during high season.
• Insider tip: Pack for all weather — winter and summer. Wear full sleeved shirt, long pants (say no to jeans) and a big hat to avoid sunburn. Warm clothes will come in handy during evening and early morning tours.

Known for its simplicity and freshness, the Chilean cuisine will conquer the heart of every foodie that sets foot on its charming land. You can book one of the available Chile food tours, or you can start your own culinary adventure by tasting one of the most popular Chilean dishes, Pastel de Choclo, which is something like a Shepherd’s Pie with meat, vegetables and a cornmeal topping. Either way, Chile promises its visitors an unforgettable culinary experience.

• Best time: Whenever you feel like it!
• Insider tip: Head to La Vega Chica market in Santiago for a dining experience that is as local and as authentic as it gets. The market is stuffed with make-shift restaurants and it can be very crowded. One thing is guaranteed, you won't leave hungry or disappointed.

Deep within Chile’s jaw-dropping mountains nestle roughly 2,000 volcanoes, of which more than 500 are active. The call to climb one of these monsters is heard by people who yearn for adventure and aren’t faint of heart. The best is Villarrica, one of the most popular volcanoes to climb in Chile’s Lake District, but also the most active. Its perfect cone shape and billowing plumes of smoke are both awe-inspiring and daunting. With proper gear, stamina, and a trusted guide, you can start your climb from the base or opt for a chairlift to kick off a bit higher. Guides often suggest the latter to conserve energy. The challenging ascent over rocks and ice tests your limits but rewards you with breathtaking views from the summit.

• Best time to visit: December to February (Chile’s summer) provides better chances of reaching the summit, as the snow only covers the crater. Winters in Chile have almost the entire volcano covered in snow and are best suited for skiing.
• Insider tip: End your expedition at the natural hot springs. Nothing beats exhaustion from a difficult climb like soaking the muscles in mineral-rich, hot water. 

While Chile is widely popular for summer vacations, there are also plenty of things to do in Chile in winter. If you love winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding, you want to travel to Chile during ski season. Between mid-June to mid-October, skiing in Chile is a fantastic outdoor activitiy. There are many ski resorts in the country offering visitors great conditions in order to have a fantastic ski holiday, of which Portillo and Valle Nevado are the most popular.

• Best time to visit: Winter (June to August) brings lots of snow in the mountains, making it the best time for snow activities.
• Insider tip: Don't plan to buy your skiing gears in Chile. Shopping opportunities are limited and when available it is very expensive. You will be better off bringing them from home. 

The capital, Santiago, is a must-visit for anyone traveling onwards to other Chile destinations or those with just a few days to spare. Primely located between the Andes and the Pacific, the city itself is just as fascinating as the surrounding scenery. Soak up the culture and history and visit well-known landmarks like the National History Museum and the 18th-century Metropolitan Cathedral, wander the city’s old colonial quarter, or visit any of the several art museums. There are so many things to do in Santiago. Beyond the well-trodden paths lie hidden gems; venture into the heart of Barrio Bellavista, where the local art scene keeps colorful murals adorning the walls, or hunt down delectable street food goodies like churros, empanadas or a completo.

You’re never pinned down in Santiago—the city truly delivers with its stunning green spaces. Ascend Cerro San Cristóbal for panoramic views of the city below, or escape to Parque Metropolitano, one of the world's largest urban parks, with verdant forests and winding trails.

• Best time to visit: Santiago has something to offer all year round, so the best time depends on what activities you want to indulge in. We consider March and April one of the most beautiful times in Santiago as autumn arrives. The weather is pleasant and wine festivals abound.
• Insider tip: Embrace the city's culinary scene beyond the tourist hotspots. While Santiago boasts many world-class restaurants, some of the best food experiences can be found in its humble street food stalls and neighborhood eateries. Keep an eye out for the completo stands to indulge in Chile’s version of a hot dog, loaded with toppings from avocado to sauerkraut.

The famous poet and senator of the Chilean Communist Party, Pablo Neruda, is one of the most important and beloved figures in South America. When you travel to Chile, visiting his houses is a must if you want to get in touch with the history and culture of the country. So, pack your bags and travel from Santiago to Valparaiso, and then to Isla Negra to see the famous Neruda’s houses. 

A whimsical island in South America, Chiloe has long been under the radar of travel lists. More recently, this uniquely independent land shrouded in myths and legends is drawing attention for all the right reasons. Surrounded by seawater that often puts on a show of blue whales, its most iconic sight is one to behold — colorful wooden houses that hover over the water on stilts. Beyond is a lush landscape that hides wild national parks, old wooden churches, and wet, dense forests. To add, the island locals flaunt rich culture and decadent culinary traditions that are waiting to be discovered. If there is a new place you have to discover this year, let it be Chiloe in Chile.

• Best time to visit: January to March offers warm weather and a range of events.

As the longest country in the world, Chile hugs the Pacific Ocean for more than 6,435 kilometers (4,000 miles). Naturally, quite a few spots have cropped up as surfing paradises, but Pichilemu stands out as Chile’s surfing capital. Global tournaments are held here yearly, usually around October.

Pichilemu holds some of the longest and most consistent waves in South America. Peak surf season (which is not for newly initiated surfaholics) regularly throws up 8 to 9-meter waves. Punta Lobos and La Puntilla are the neighborhoods to get to in Pichilemu for those adrenaline seekers who find their thrills in the waves.

• Best time to visit: December to February sees small to midsize summer waves for those less surf-acquainted, while a veteran surfer will find April to September’s waves a lot choppier. Stay safe!
• Insider tip: The cold waters on many of the coasts of Chile can be brutal to surf. Along with boards, wetsuits are available for rent, and trust us, a slightly thicker suit makes quite a difference when dipping into 50°F (10°C) waters.

A visit to the Los Pingüinos Natural Monument in Chile is an experience unlike anything. This is the largest penguin colony in southern Chile, and it is located on the small Magdalena Island.Though some people would love to adventure into searching for penguins by themselves, the island is accessible only by guided boat tours. For a memorable Isla Magdalena tour, make sure to visit the island between November and March, when the birds migrate back here and find their mate. Read our guide to Isla de Magdalena to know more about visiting the destination.

• Best time to visit: November to March is the only time with boat tours available to Isla Magdalena.
• Insider's tip: The boat ride from the dock to the island is pretty much uneventful, but if you are lucky you might sight some dolphins and even whales in the waters. 

If you have the time to explore Chile on four-wheels, a driving trip is one of the best activities available. Whether you choose to self-drive or a chauffeured trip, a road trip through Chile allows you to take in the best sites and cultural experiences the country has to offer. The Carretera Austral, also known as Route 7, is hands down Chile’s most popular, challenging but scenic road trip, winding through fjords, lakes, glaciers, forests, and national parks. Other less grueling but equally stunning road trips include a five-day journey from Calama to Visviri, known as the Great Highlands Route.

Chile is also part of the Pan-American highway (one of the longest in the world), so if you want a taste of it, you can join the road for the Chilean part of the journey. An alternative to the Pan-American Highway is the Taltal to Paranal route, taking in sea and desert.

• Best time to visit: September to February are Chile’s drier months, making a longer road trip safer and less susceptible to wet roads.
• Insider tip: With so many scenic spots on a Chilean road trip, the activity has risen in popularity over the past few years, meaning there are more hotels and amenities set up to accommodate your journey. Stopping off regularly ensures rest, and with places like La Serena, Copiapo, and Antofagasta waiting, the journey will be as inspiring as the destination.

The southern tip of Chile is home to the Tierra del Fuego archipelago—the furthest walkable point south of any country on the globe. Not many venture this far, but those who do are blessed with incredible sights and cultural experiences. Exploring this area is definitely one of the most unique things to do in Chile, if not the world!

For those willing and able to get to the final islands, Cape Horn’s windswept cliffs mark the end of the continent and the gateway to Antarctica. Cruise the waters of the Beagle Channel to and follow Darwin’s journey, past stunning sceneries and fascinating wildlife. Soak in vistas of glaciers carved into the sea and colonies of penguins along the shore. For seasoned hikers, the incredible 5-day Dientes de Navarino trail is a remote and challenging trek in the area that is highly recommended.

• Best time to visit: If you’re willing to go far out to the End of the World, March to May might be the best. January and February provide more reliable cruises when crossing the islands.
• Insider tip: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the indigenous communities of the Mapuche and the Selk’nam peoples. The southern region of Chile is a diverse pot of cultures, languages, and cuisines, some of which are exclusive to this area only.

For more insight on destinations to visit in the country, read our best places to visit in Chile. If you are ready to start planning a trip, we suggest figuring out how many days you want to stay in Chile. Group tours are great, but a custom trip to Chile will give you the freedom to do it your way.