Chile

Travel to Chile

Overview

The list of attractions in Chile is as long as the country itself. The best of these lie in the country's vast wilderness areas, although Santiago, the capital city, also has an impressive sightseeing offering, and the nearby city of Valparaiso is increasingly drawing global attention with its street art and bohemian atmosphere.

In Chilean Patagonia, nature lovers will find Parque Nacional Laguna San Rafael and Parque Nacional Torres del Paine, both of which rank among the most impressive scenic sites in the world, and encompass mountains, ice fields, glaciers and lagoons. These can all be explored by way of extensive and well-maintained hiking trails.

Interesting towns such as Castro, Puerto Montt and Pucon provide springboards into The Lake District and Parque Nacional Chiloe, where rivers, lakes and volcanoes promise a playground for adventure sports enthusiasts, and the age-old Chilean folklore enchants the more culturally minded.

Chile continues to amaze with weird and wonderful landscapes and natural features such as the El Tatio Gyesers and The Valley of the Moon in the northern Reserva Nacional Los Flamencos.

Those willing to make a trip into yet more remote country can hop across to the mysterious Easter Island, where the giant stone Moai stare out to sea, guarding the ancient secrets of one of the most isolated places on earth.

Chile is truly one of the most diverse countries in the world and it is best to pick a region or two to explore to avoid travelling long distances â€' popular regions such as Chilean Patagonia, the Lake District and the Atacama Desert can all easily occupy an entire holiday. Travellers should also note that Chile covers a number of different climate zones and there is no one ideal season to visit; trips should be scheduled according to the desired destination.

Climate in Chile

The territory of Chile extends from the tropics down almost to Antarctica, and from sea level up to breath-taking altitudes, meaning the country has a wide variety of climate zones. In the north there is hardly any rainfall and conditions are very hot and arid. The climate in central Chile is Mediterranean, with cool, wet winters between April and September. Average annual rainfall increases, and temperatures decrease as travellers move further south. In Santiago average temperatures vary between 68ºF (20ºC) in January, the height of summer, and 46ºF (8ºC) in July, midwinter. In the extreme south the weather is cold and wet most of the year, with snow covering the mountains and the sky cloudy. Because the weather in Chile varies so much there is no ideal time to visit the country as a whole; depending on the desired area and activities, the best time to visit Chile will change. However, in every season the country has something to offer that makes it a year-round travel destination.

Health Notes when travelling to Chile

There are no vaccination requirements for entry to Chile, but vaccination for hepatitis A is recommended and a typhoid vaccine may be recommended for long-term travellers who plan to visit rural areas and eat outside of hotels and restaurants. Water is generally safe in the cities, but should be treated in the rural areas; bottled water is widely available for drinking. Santiago is severely polluted and this could cause respiratory problems or eye irritations, particularly between May and August. Travellers visiting the Andes Mountains should be aware of altitude sickness, and ascend slowly to allow the body to adjust. Healthcare in urban areas is generally good, but hospitals and clinics are expensive. Comprehensive travel health insurance is recommended.

Safety Notes when travelling to Chile

Chile is a politically stable country with few safety threats to travellers. Incidences of pick-pocketing and mugging are on the increase in big cities and travellers should take care of their belongings, especially around tourist areas and bus stations, and avoid walking alone late at night. Tourists should be particularly cautious in Valparaiso and the capital Santiago, where theft is on the increase, and muggings are becoming more common in popular walking areas such as Cerro San Cristobal, Cerro Santa Lucia and Cerro Manquehue. There has been an increase in reports regarding people receiving spiked drinks at nightclubs and bars, particularly in Santiago. Travellers should avoid any involvement in political protests and demonstrations, which take place from time to time. Chile has a landmine problem, mainly restricted to border areas adjacent to Peru and Bolivia. These areas are seldom visited by most travellers so landmines shouldn't be a problem but visitors are advised to stick to marked roads, obey all signs and seek the advice of local authorities if travelling to the border areas of regions I, II or XV.

Customs in Chile

Bargaining is unusual in street markets or stores in Chile - if there is a price on goods it is seldom negotiable. Although Chile is largely conservative in outlook, homosexuality is legal and is increasingly widely accepted socially. Punishment for the possession and consumption of drugs is illegal and can lead to prison sentences.

Duty Free in Chile

Travellers entering Chile do not need to pay customs duty on 400 cigarettes, 50 cigars (large or small) and 500g tobacco; 2.5 litres of alcohol; and perfume for personal use. Meat products, flowers, fruit and vegetables may only be imported if permission is given by the Department of Agriculture.

Doing Business in Chile

Chilean business culture tends to be formal, and this includes dress, which should also be conservative. In business, Chileans should be addressed by their titles and surnames, unless otherwise stated. Businesses are often family run. Third party introductions are indispensable when arranging a meeting, and developing a personal relationship is key. Chileans often stand very close when conversing and it is impolite to pull away. Visitors are also expected to re-confirm appointments before arriving at a meeting. Foreigners should be on time for meetings, but it is not unusual for the host to be 15-30 minutes late. On introduction, a firm handshake and exchange of business cards is usual - cards should be printed in both English and Spanish and care should be taken to pay attention to the card before putting it away carefully. Business hours are generally 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday, often with a siesta over lunch.

Communication in Chile

The international access code for Chile is +56. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). Hotels, cafes and restaurants offering free wifi are widely available. As international roaming costs can be high, purchasing a local prepaid SIM card can be a cheaper option.

Tipping in Chile

Tips of about 10 percent are expected in restaurants. It is not customary to tip taxi drivers but it is usual to round up the fare if they help with luggage. In general tipping small amounts is customary for most services.

Passport/Visa Note

A return or onward ticket is required. We always recommend that passports be valid for six months after the intended period of travel. Extension of stay is possible for an additional 90 days for visa exempt visitors.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements for Americans:

No visa is required by US nationals for visits of up to 90 days. A passport valid on arrival is required for travel to Chile.

Entry requirements for Canadians:

No visa is required by Canadians for visits of up to 90 days. A passport valid on arrival is required for travel to Chile.

Entry requirements for UK nationals:

UK nationals do not require a visa for visits of up to 90 days. A passport valid on arrival is required.

Entry requirements for Australians:

No visa is required by Australians for visits of up to 90 days. A passport valid on arrival is required. Visa exemptions also include passengers with an APEC Business Travel Card, valid for travelling to 'CHL' on business, maximum stay of 90 days.

Entry requirements for Irish nationals:

Irish nationals must hold a passport valid on arrival, but a visa is not required for a stay of up to 90 days.

Entry requirements for New Zealanders:

New Zealand nationals must hold a passport valid on arrival. A visa is not required for a stay of up to 90 days. VISA exemption also includes those travelling with an APEC Business Travel Card, valid for travelling to 'CHL' for business, a maximum stay of 90 days.

Entry requirements for South Africans:

South African nationals must hold a passport valid on arrival. A visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days.

Tourist Offices

Chile National Tourism Website: http://www.chile.travel

Chile Embassies

In the United States:

Embassy of Chile, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 530 4104.

In Canada:

Embassy of Chile, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 235 4402.

In the United Kingdom:

Embassy of Chile, London, United Kingdom: +44 (0)20 7222 2361.

In Australia:

Embassy of Chile, Canberra, Australia: +61 (0)2 6286 2430.

In Ireland:

Embassy of Chile, Dublin, Ireland: +353 (0)1 667 5094.

In New Zealand:

Embassy of Chile, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 (0)4 471 6270.

In South Africa:

Embassy of Chile, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 460 8090.

Foreign Embassies in Chile

American Embassy

United States Embassy, Santiago: +56 (0)2 330 3000

Canadian Embassy

Canadian Embassy, Santiago: +56 (0)2 652 3800.

British Embassy

British Embassy, Santiago: +56 (0)2 370 4100.

Australian Embassy

Australian Embassy, Santiago: +56 (0)2 550 3500.

Irish Embassy

Embassy of Ireland, Buenos Aires (also responsible for Chile): +54 11 5787 0801.

New Zealand Embassy

New Zealand Embassy, Santiago: +56 (0)2 616 3000.

South African Embassy

South African Embassy, Santiago: +56 (0)2 8200 300.

Travel Advisories

Currency

The local currency is the Chilean Peso (CLP), which is divided into 100 centavos. Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club and to a lesser extent, American Express, are accepted in most large shops and hotels. ATMs are widely available.

Exchange rate for 1 CLP - Chilean Peso
0.00 BMD Bermudan Dollar	0.00 EUR Euro	0.00 USD U.S. Dollar	0.00 GBP U.K. Pound Sterling	0.16 JPY Japanese Yen	0.00 CAD Canadian Dollar
0.00 CHF Swiss Franc	0.00 AUD Australian Dollar	0.04 UAH Ukrainian Hryvnia	0.49 KZT Kazakhstani Tenge	2.17 LBP Lebanese Pound	0.00 LYD Libyan Dinar
0.01 BOB Bolivian Boliviano	0.16 NPR Nepalese Rupee	0.00 OMR Omani Rial	0.01 QAR Qatari Rial	0.00 SGD Singapore Dollar	0.01 SEK Swedish Krona
0.01 TTD Trinidad Tobago Dollar	0.01 VEF Venezuelan Bolivar	0.07 DOP Dominican Peso	0.01 HRK Croatian Kuna	0.03 MXN Mexican Peso	0.85 XOF West African CFA Franc
0.00 PGK Papua New Guinean kina	0.00 BSD Bahamian Dollar	0.00 FJD Fiji Dollar	0.03 HNL Honduran Lempira	0.16 DZD Algerian Dinar	1.72 MMK Myanma Kyat
0.02 BWP Botswana Pula	0.00 PEN Peruvian Nuevo Sol	0.69 AMD Armenia Dram	0.03 CZK Czech Koruna	0.03 MDL Moldova Lei	0.18 ISK Icelandic Krona
4.24 UZS Uzbekistan Sum	0.01 ILS Israeli New Sheqel	0.00 JOD Jordanian Dinar	0.00 KWD Kuwaiti Dinar	0.05 UYU Uruguayan Peso	0.05 MUR Mauritian Rupee
0.04 NIO Nicaraguan Córdoba	0.01 NOK Norwegian Krone	0.01 PLN Polish Zloty	0.01 SAR Saudi Riyal	0.21 LKR Sri Lanka Rupee	0.05 THB Thai Baht
0.01 AED U.A.E Dirham	0.01 BRL Brazilian Real	0.01 RON Romanian New Leu	0.01 HKD Hong Kong Dollar	0.85 XAF Central African CFA Franc	32.41 VND Vietnamese Dong
0.02 ARS Argentine Peso	0.00 XCD East Caribbean Dollar	0.01 GTQ Guatemalan Quetzal	0.01 MAD Moroccan Dirham	0.00 BHD Bahrain Dinar	0.00 PAB Panamanian Balboa
0.00 AZN Azerbaijan Manat	4.50 COP Colombian Peso	0.10 KGS Kyrgyzstan Som	0.40 HUF Hungarian Forint	0.01 TJS Tajikistan Ruble	19.73 IDR Indonesian Rupiah
0.01 EGP Egyptian Pound	1.72 KRW South Korean Won	8.17 PYG Paraguayan Guaraní	0.01 MYR Malaysian Ringgit	0.78 CRC Costa Rican Colón	0.00 NZD New Zealand Dollar
0.15 PKR Pakistani Rupee	0.10 RUB Russian Rouble	0.02 ZAR South African Rand	0.00 TND Tunisian Dinar	0.00 BBD Barbadian Dollar	0.00 BGN Bulgarian Lev
0.00 TRY Turkish Lira	0.07 PHP Philippine Peso	0.05 TWD New Taiwan Dollar	0.28 NGN Nigerian Naira	0.15 XPF CFP Franc	0.01 GHS Ghanaian Cedi
0.18 JMD Jamaican Dollar	0.00 ANG Neth. Antillean Guilder	0.00 BND Brunei Dollar	0.16 RSD Serbian Dinar	0.01 CNY Chinese Yuan	28.69 BYR Belarussian Ruble
0.01 DKK Danish Krone	0.00 TMT New Turkmenistan Manat	0.10 INR Indian Rupee

Santiago International (SCL)
Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport
http://www.nuevopudahuel.cl

Location: Santiago The airport is situated nine miles (15km) northwest of Santiago.

Time: Local time is GMT -3 (GMT -4 from the second Saturday in May to the second Saturday in August).

Getting to the city: Several bus services leave regularly for the city centre. Official airport taxis are also available from outside international and domestic arrivals.

Car rental: International companies such as Avis, Alamo, Sixt and Europcar are represented at the airport as well as several local companies.

Airport Taxis: There are taxi ranks located outside both the Domestic and International Arrivals areas.

Facilities: Facilities at this well-equipped airport include business and internet centres, bureaux de change, banks and ATMs, duty-free shops as well as a variety of other retail stores, restaurants, cafes and bars, tourist information, travel agencies and hotel reservations.

Parking: Parking spaces are charged for in half hour increments; there are three different zones and expense varies according to proximity to the terminal building.

Pucon
Lake District

Pucon is a pretty resort town situated on Lake Villarrica, set against the looming backdrop of the live Villarrica Volcano. The town has excellent tourist infrastructure and is one of Chile's most popular domestic holiday destinations. Surrounded by one private park and two national parks, Pucon is the focus of the Lake District's adventure tourism industry and is a growing centre for outdoor sports including hiking, kayaking, whitewater rafting, windsurfing, horseback riding and mountain biking. More relaxing outdoor activities in Pucon include fishing, birdwatching, soaking up the sun on the lakeshore, or bathing in the nearby hot springs.

In the winter months, skiing and snowboarding in Pucon are the major attractions, and the resort is one of the few places in the world where visitors can ski on a live volcano. Travellers should note, however, that although the conspicuous activity of the Villarrica Volcano is delightful in some ways, it also means that adventures on the slopes of the volcano are sometimes suspended due to the volcanic activity. The last serious eruption was in March 2015.

Nightlife in Pucon

The nightlife in Pucon is usually lively, and the town has the reputation of having something fun to do 24 hours a day. Evenings out generally involve plentiful food and oversized beers and, although the nightlife is energetic, it isn't generally sophisticated. There are one or two more stylish venues though. Many bars and nightclubs are open only in summer (November to February), which is the peak tourism season; the town is much quieter during the winter months, though there is always somewhere to get a drink.

Shopping in Pucon

It's seldom a good idea to shop too extensively in a resort town, as the prices are generally higher, and the range more generic than in less commercialised towns and rural areas. In Pucon there are plentiful high-quality carvings, textiles and leather goods and the range is impressive but cheaper crafts can be found outside of the little town. There are a few charming little bakeries and some big supermarkets in Pucon for those choosing to self-cater.

Things to do in Pucon

Pucon is ideally situated for adventure sports and outdoor activities, as it is framed between a mountain and a lake, and is on the cusp of two national parks and one private reserve. In summer there is whitewater rafting, hiking, hot springs, fly-fishing, birdwatching, horseback riding and volcanic trekking. Winter activities centre around skiing, snow-boarding and relaxing about in the restorative hot springs. There are numerous tour operators based in the town and organising activities is easy.

Things to be aware of in Pucon

Pucon can get crowded so accommodation should be arranged well in advance in the peak summer months.

Dining in Pucon

Hordes of hungry tourists have ensured a lively and diverse restaurant scene in Pucon. There are plenty of international staples available (foods such as pizza and burgers are popular all over Chile) but there are also some more authentic eateries offering local cuisine. It is possible to eat cheaply or to splurge, depending on budget.

Overview of the Attractions in Chile

The list of attractions in Chile is as long as the country itself. The best of these lie in the country's vast wilderness areas, although Santiago, the capital city, also has an impressive sightseeing offering, and the nearby city of Valparaiso is increasingly drawing global attention with its street art and bohemian atmosphere.

In Chilean Patagonia, nature lovers will find Parque Nacional Laguna San Rafael and Parque Nacional Torres del Paine, both of which rank among the most impressive scenic sites in the world, and encompass mountains, ice fields, glaciers and lagoons. These can all be explored by way of extensive and well-maintained hiking trails.

Interesting towns such as Castro, Puerto Montt and Pucon provide springboards into The Lake District and Parque Nacional Chiloe, where rivers, lakes and volcanoes promise a playground for adventure sports enthusiasts, and the age-old Chilean folklore enchants the more culturally minded.

Chile continues to amaze with weird and wonderful landscapes and natural features such as the El Tatio Gyesers and The Valley of the Moon in the northern Reserva Nacional Los Flamencos.

Those willing to make a trip into yet more remote country can hop across to the mysterious Easter Island, where the giant stone Moai stare out to sea, guarding the ancient secrets of one of the most isolated places on earth.

Chile is truly one of the most diverse countries in the world and it is best to pick a region or two to explore to avoid travelling long distances â€' popular regions such as Chilean Patagonia, the Lake District and the Atacama Desert can all easily occupy an entire holiday. Travellers should also note that Chile covers a number of different climate zones and there is no one ideal season to visit; trips should be scheduled according to the desired destination.

Plaza de Armas
Santiago

The Plaza de Armas is both the heart of Santiago and the city's historical centre, a square hemmed in by impressive Spanish colonial public buildings, including the 18th-century Cathedral and elaborate main post office that was once the Spanish governor's residence. As with most colonial squares of this kind, and as the name suggests, the Plaza de Armas was designed to be the open space in which the armed forces of the city could gather to parade and to protect Santiago's most important buildings.

The square became the hub of administrative, commercial and social life when the city was founded in 1541, and today it remains the centre of life in the city. Never a dull place to be by day, with its constant activity and throngs of people entertained by buskers and local artists, the evenings are just as lively, when passers-by can become embroiled in chess games on temporary tables set up under the trees.

This square is the point from which all distances are measured in Chile, and the central point for the grid pattern of the streets. Visitors should be aware of their belongings here as it is a popular target spot among pickpockets. Nevertheless, the square is a useful starting point for sightseeing in Santiago as many attractions are close by.

Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art
Santiago

The Chilean Museum of Pre-Colombian Art is housed in the old Royal Customs House in Santiago. The collection is impressively large compared to many other museums in a similar vein, and spans around 4,500 years and 80 pre-Columbian civilisations of South America. The Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino, as it is known to locals, is a fascinating place to spend a few hours and is a great find for art and archaeology enthusiasts. The exhibits are beautifully curated and the collection provides an informative insight into the cultures of the Incas, Mayans, Aztecs and other proud civilisations of the continent, illustrating their artistic diversity and advancement.

It is worth paying extra for a guided tour though, because the labels are not translated into many languages and are not as comprehensive as some might like. Having said that, the museum is a worthwhile attraction in Santiago, especially if travellers are not familiar with the intriguing ancient cultures on display.

Website: http://www.precolombino.cl/en

Mercado Central
Santiago

Santiago's colourful Mercado Central, housed in an 1872 wrought-iron structure, has a fruit and vegetable market as well as a buzzing fish market where an assortment of glistening fresh seafood is packed onto tables. Mussels, oysters and clams sit in buckets among an immense variety of crustaceans and tentacled creatures. The fishmongers demonstrate their skill at gutting and filleting amid a cacophony of frenzied buying. The best time to visit is at lunchtime, when a delicious sampling of the wares can be enjoyed in the happily chaotic atmosphere of the central hall.

There are many restaurants to choose from and often the smaller ones are the best (and a bit cheaper). Mercado Central can be rather expensive owing to its increasing popularity among tourists, so visitors should be on the lookout for bargains. It can be crowded and chaotic, but the seafood is excellent and always fresh, the architecture is interesting, and there is a festive feel to the place (partly thanks to the street musicians who frequent it). It is essentially a food market but there are usually some vendors selling souvenirs, jewellery and the like as well. We'd advise that visitors stay aware and keep hold of their possessions as pickpockets often target markets of this kind.

Cerro San Cristóbal
Santiago

Cerro San Cristóbal is a 2,752-foot (860m) hill rising above central Santiago which, on a clear day, affords magnificent views of the surrounding city, all the way across to the Andes. The easiest way to the top is by funicular, but there is also a teleférico (cable car), bus or hiking path leading up from the bottom through the forested slopes. There are many walkways and, at the summit, the 70-foot (22m) high statue of the Virgin Mary to mark where the Pope held a mass in 1987.

Visitors will find picnic sites on the lower slopes and the park also contains two outdoor swimming pools. The hill is situated within Santiago's biggest open space, the peaceful Parque Metropolitano, which makes for a peaceful escape from the bustle of the city. Visitors need a few hours to enjoy the park and on a sunny day the swimming pools are a delight.

Reserva Nacional Los Flamencos
San Pedro de Atacama

This popular nature reserve in northern Chile (many claim it is the most popular) is 459 square miles (740km sq) and is divided into seven sections, all offering highlights of their own. One of the most interesting areas within the Reserva Nacional Los Flamencos is the Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon), a surreal landscape of salt peaks formed by uplifted lake sediments that have been shaped into dramatic formations by wind erosion. The valley's unearthly blend of pastel colours makes it even more enchanting at sunset. Close to San Pedro de Atacama, the valley can be reached by mountain bike or on a guided tour.

A striking feature of northern Chile's geography is the shimmering and apparently endless salt lakes, home to many bird species. The Salar de Atacama (Salt Flat of Atacama) in the reserve has a lagoon, Laguna Chaxa, which supports three species of flamingos as well as other bird life.

The salt lake also affords good views of the volcanoes in the Andean chain of mountains on the nearby altiplano (high plain). The stunning desert landscape offers many attractions: hiking, horse riding, bird watching and photography among them. Visitors should be aware that, in this desert region, temperatures vary dramatically and can drop suddenly.

El Tatio Geysers
San Pedro de Atacama

At an altitude of 13,760 feet (4,300m) El Tatio is one of the world's highest and hottest geyser fields, and is surrounded by volcanoes and fed by 80 geysers and hundreds of gassy fumaroles. The geyser fields are best viewed at sunrise when there are changes in atmospheric pressure; the steaming fumaroles are particularly spectacular at this time, shooting clouds of steam about 35 feet (112m) into the air.

While it is possible to bathe in the hot geyser water in a small pool, parts of the field are highly dangerous with only a thin crust over nearly boiling mud, so it is always a good idea to visit the geysers with a knowledgeable guide.

It's a glorious attraction for photographers as the steam and the odd landscape make for dramatic scenes. The geysers are not great for anybody who has respiratory issues though, so visitors with breathing problems should proceed with caution. Visitors should also be sure to wear layers because, although the pre-dawn temperatures are freezing, it is much warmer at the geysers.

Most travellers visit the geysers as part of a guided tour. These usually leave San Pedro de Atacama early in the morning. Many operators offer this trip and it is worth shopping around to find the best option. Many geyser tours include a stop at nearby hot springs in the desert, which is a great addition.

Parque Nacional Chiloé
Isla Grande de Chiloe

Following in the footsteps of 19th-century English naturalist Charles Darwin, visitors will find an isolated but wildly beautiful landscape of rolling hills, native forests and pristine coastline in Parque Nacional Chiloé. It is home to the Chilote fox, the rare pudú (miniature deer) and over 100 species of birds, including the Magellanic penguin.

The park offers a variety of walking trails, through forests and under twisted tepú trees, along miles of unspoilt coastline or along nature trails that lead up onto the hills for superb views of the surrounding area. One of the draws of the hiking trails in Chiloé is the wide selection of short hikes, making it a good activity even for novice hikers, but there are also epic hikes for those who want to walk long distances. The park is also home to several Huilliche Indian communities, and visitors can find information about the traditions and folklore of the Huilliche people, as well as displays on the flora and fauna of the area.

This amazing wilderness area is only 18 miles (30km) west of Chonchi and 34 miles (54km) west of Castro, making it easily accessible. The area receives a huge amount of rain year round, so visitors should be sure to come prepared.

Website: http://www.parquechiloe.cl

Parque Nacional Torres del Paine
Chilean Patagonia

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this 180,000-hectare (442-acre) park is the pride and joy of southern Chile. The park takes its name from the towering granite pillars that rise over 6,560 feet (2,000m) above the Patagonian plains. It is a hiker's paradise with many excellent, well-developed trails that traverse astounding changes in scenery.

The hikes consist of several circuits that vary in length and difficulty. There are highly competent and informative guides available, but unaccompanied hikes are also allowed. This amazing freedom is part of the appeal of the wilderness area for adventurers. Turquoise lakes and roaring waterfalls, forests and magnificent rambling glaciers, icy rivers, daisy-filled meadows, harsh mountain passes and plenty of wildlife, including the protected guanaco (wild relative of the llama), are all part of what makes this park so attractive.

Visitors can also try their hand at outdoor activities such as horseback riding, sailing, kayaking, rock climbing and fly-fishing. Two famous areas within the park are the French Valley and Silence Valley (only accessible with a guide). The sunrise hike to the towers that give the park its name is also highly recommended. The Parque Nacional Torres del Paine features prominently on discerning travellers' bucket lists, and for very good reason.

Website: http://www.torresdelpaine.com/ingles/index.asp

Parque Nacional Laguna San Rafael
Chilean Patagonia

Created in 1959, Parque Nacional Laguna San Rafael covers an area of 6,726 square miles (17,420 sq km) and includes the Northern Patagonian Ice Field. It was named after the San Rafael Lagoon, which was created by the retreat of the San Rafael Glacier, and has been designated a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. A fjord more than 10 miles (16km) long is one of the park's main attractions, along with some of the highest peaks in Patagonia, several glaciers, lakes and a rich variety of bird and sea life.

While the majority of visitors to Laguna San Rafael never set foot on land, the magnificent views from the boat will no doubt stay with them for a lifetime. If visitors take one of the larger boat trips to see the famous glaciers in the park, they will almost certainly get the opportunity to approach the ice flow in smaller boats and get up close to the glacier.

For the really adventurous there are also multi-day sea kayaking tours of the area. Most visitors describe the trip as a once-in-a-lifetime, unforgettable experience and it isn't hard to see why when one considers the wondrous landscape. The glaciers are melting, making this attraction even more poignant and special; in a few years' time the landscape may well be very different.

Castro
Isla Grande de Chiloe

Castro is the main town (technically a city) on Chiloé Island and the third oldest city in Chile, founded in 1567. It's famous for its colourful rows of palafitos (stilted houses) lining the estuaries, excellent seafood and traditional handicrafts. With an eclectic blend of Chilote culture and modern development, Castro is a popular summer destination for both Chilean and Argentinian tourists and has a laid-back feel to it.

One of the town's most interesting features is the San Francisco Church, painted in dazzling pastel colours, but it contains a number of other interesting attractions, including craft markets, the regional museum and the MAM Gallery. Castro also has a range of restaurants and shops, and a few bars to keep the fun going into the night. The central town square, Plaza de Armas, is the heart of Castro, where visitors will find a number of great eateries, as well as a prime people-watching position.

Cycling around the island is another popular activity and a good way to see the sights. The town is also a short hop away from the nearby islands of the Chiloé archipelago and the Parque Nacional Chiloé, which make for wonderful excursions.

Wooden Churches of Chiloe
Isla Grande de Chiloe

The Spanish, who arrived in the 16th century, and Jesuit missionaries that came to Isla Grande de Chiloe in the 17th century, built hundreds of wooden churches in the archipelago in an attempt to 'civilise' the three local Indian tribes that occupied the islands. The Jesuits built more than 80 of these places of worship, and the Franciscan order later joined them and added to the region's astounding collection of chapels and churches. The 16 churches that still remain well preserved have been jointly UNESCO-listed. Visiting some of these old buildings is one of the most interesting things to see and do in Isla Grande de Chiloe.

Apart from being ancient, the churches have a unique architecture that makes them special; in fact, the whole archipelago benefits from its own style of building, which visitors find delightful. Although recognisably colonial in some ways, the mix between the local and European influences is unexpected and original to the area, possibly because isolation allowed the architectural style to develop largely undisturbed for centuries. The churches are wooden, often painted with the pastel colours associated with Castro.

Three of the most famous can be found in the villages of Chonchi and Dalcahue, and in Castro itself. They're a popular tourist attraction in Isla Grande de Chiloe, and those lucky enough to travel to this region should try to visit as many as possible.

Chilean Tierra del Fuego
Chilean Patagonia

In the furthest southern reaches of Patagonia, at the tip of South America, lies the archipelago of Tierra del Fuego, which translates to 'Land of Fire'. It is a dramatic name for a dramatic place, as the harsh winds of the subpolar climate sweep over rocky mountains, sparse tundra and hardy forests.

Tierra del Fuego is an increasingly popular eco-travel destination, and adventurous travellers come to see wildlife that includes sea lions, foxes, condors, owls and firecrown hummingbirds. Hiking and camping are popular activities, and the archipelago offers some of the best trout fishing in South America.

While the savage natural beauty of the area is the main attraction for travellers, there is also more traditional touristic sightseeing on offer. Much of the tourism in Tierra del Fuego revolves around 'southernmost' things: the port town of Puerto Williams claims to be the southernmost city in the world; the southernmost cathedral and temple are located in Punta Arenas; and, while Cape Horn is widely thought to be the southernmost island in South America, that title actually goes to The Diego Ramírez Islands, which are nesting grounds for many species of southern seabirds, including albatross, penguins and petrels. Travellers with a sense of adventure looking to get off the beaten track will find Tierra del Fuego to be quite a revelation.

Magdalena Island Penguin Reserve
Chilean Patagonia

Magdalena Island is located 21.7 miles (35km) south of Punta Arenas, and the Magdalena Island Penguin Reserve is a paradise for birdwatchers, or for anybody who is fond of penguins. The reserve is a natural bird sanctuary, and is home to more than 100,000 birds, including about 95 percent of the world's population of Magellanic Penguins as well as cormorants and seagulls.

Because it is protected, the only facilities on Magdalena Island are for scientific research and not tourism. But guided tours are available to see the penguins in their natural habitat, and the lighthouse at the Environmental Interpretation Centre provides stunning panoramic views of the region. There are ferries available from Puntas Arenas, which take approximately two hours each way and provide snacks and coffee. These ferry rides are in themselves thrilling as the boat crosses the famous Straits of Magellan, traversing the same waters as Sir Francis Drake and Charles Darwin did centuries ago.

Generally, visitors are allowed about an hour on the island to observe the penguins in their natural habitat. The birds are naturally curious and always amusing. They return every year between October and March to lay their eggs and raise their young â€' lucky visitors may even see chicks.

Wine Country
Santiago

Chilean wine enjoys a good reputation with sommeliers all around the world, with its popularity continuing to soar. Central Chile's Mediterranean climate is ideal for vineyards, and some of the best wine comes from the Central Valley around Santiago. Needless to say, wine tastings are a popular activity in Santiago, and there are many wineries to choose from. Valle de Maipo, Valle de Casablanca and Valle de San Antonio are the closest to the city, and there are nearly 30 wineries in Valle de Maipo alone. Wine country in Chile stretches for many miles along the coast, from Valle de Elqui in the north to Valle de Malleco in the south.

Chilean wine country is an especially beautiful region in the summer, and a great way to explore the area is on bicycles, which can easily be hired in nearby towns. Some groups of wineries have banded together to offer established tours along 'wine routes', of which the circuit of the Colchagua Valley is the most popular. Many tour operators in Santiago offer wine tasting packages as well.

Vina del Mar
Santiago

Vina del Mar is a short bus ride from Santiago, right next to Valparaiso; in fact, travellers could be forgiven for thinking the two coastal cities are one and the same. Vina del Mar has a vastly different character to bohemian Valparaiso, though. It is a safer, more manicured city celebrated for its fun resort culture, malls and beautiful beaches. Vina del Mar translates as 'Vineyard of the Sea', and the city's beautiful parks have earned it the romantic nickname of Ciudad Jardin, or 'Garden City'.

Pretty Vina del Mar is a popular summer resort and weekend retreat for the wealthy inhabitants of Santiago with a rollicking nightlife, good restaurant scene, and beaches and casinos that boom in the peak summer months between December and February. Though Vina del Mar's picturesque beaches are its biggest drawcards, they are not always safe for swimming. Visitors should be careful not to underestimate the power of the waves and currents and should obey directives from lifeguards.

Valparaiso
Santiago

Valparaiso, only 75 miles (120km) from Santiago, has a real bohemian spirit. It is an historic port city; in fact, in the 1800s it was the main shipping hub of the Southern Pacific, which brought wealth, floods of European immigrants, and that deliciously debaucherous atmosphere that was often present in places where sailors congregated.

Valparaiso clings to the steep sides of 45 hills along the coast, a tricky geography that makes epic staircases and quaint old funiculars integral to getting around. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to a wealth of well-preserved historic architecture, but it is the highly modern street-art phenomenon that truly sets the place apart. The sheer amount of murals and graffiti, mixed up with grand old buildings, makes the whole city feel like a weird work of art. Adding another layer to this artsy atmosphere are the musicians who busk on seemingly every corner and artists selling their work at improvised stalls all over the picturesque hillside districts.

Unsurprisingly, Valparaiso is renowned for its vibrant nightlife and there is a surplus of cool places to eat and drink in the city. Apart from taking in the art, colourful architecture and numerous pubs, travellers should be sure to visit the quirky home of beloved poet Pablo Neruda, which offers glorious views over the city as well as insight into his life.

Pukara de Quitor Ruins
San Pedro de Atacama

The Pukara de Quitor Ruins are a short distance from the town and one of the most popular attractions in San Pedro de Atacama. The fortifications were built by the pre-Incan Atacameno civilisation in the 12th century. The ruins have not been excavated fully, despite being incredibly well preserved, as they will be quickly destroyed by the elements if they are exposed further.

The way they stand, half-uncovered, actually adds to the mystique of the place, and visitors can still have a fair idea of what the structures would have looked like originally. To help travellers envisage the buildings as they once were, a replica of one of the 800-year-old houses has been built.

A bike ride or a quick hike to the ruins is one of the most popular things to do in San Pedro de Atacama. The distance is under three miles (4km) and can be walked in about an hour. The path is well sign-posted and not demanding. Possibly the most astounding part about the fort are the views from the site, and even those visitors who have seen more extensive and impressive ruins, such as those just north in Peru, will still be blown away by the vistas. The ruins can be explored with remarkable freedom, which is also a bonus.

Public Holidays in Chile

	2020	2021
Our Lady of Mount Carmel	Wed. July 16	Wed. July 16
New Year's Day	Wed. January 1	Wed. January 1
Good Friday	Thu. April 10	Wed. April 2
Holy Saturday	Fri. April 11	Thu. April 3
Labour Day	Thu. May 1	Thu. May 1
Navy Day	Wed. May 21	Wed. May 21
Feast of St Peter and St Paul	Sun. June 29	Sat. June 28
Assumption of the Virgin Mary	Fri. August 15	Fri. August 15
Independence Day	Thu. September 18	Wed. September 17 to Thu. September 18
Army Day	Fri. September 19	Fri. September 19
Dia de la Raza (Columbus Day)	Sun. October 12	Sat. October 11
All Saints' Day	Sat. November 1	Sat. November 1
Immaculate Conception	Mon. December 8	Mon. December 8
Christmas Day	Thu. December 25	Thu. December 25
Reformation Day	Fri. October 31	Fri. October 31