Travel Guide Chile

Terra Sur Travels > Blog > Travel Guide Chile

Chile’s history is a tapestry of ancient indigenous cultures, Spanish conquest, and modern-day resilience.

From the bustling streets of Santiago to the remote beauty of Easter Island, every corner of Chile tells a unique story.

Must-Visit Places in Chile

Santiago (Capital)

History 
Founded in 1541, Santiago’s historic core, around Plaza de Armas, boasts colonial-era churches and the presidential palace, La Moneda. Dive into its past with a guided walking tour.

What is unique about Santiago de Chile?
Santiago, the capital city of Chile, is a significant hub for economics, politics, and culture for the country and the entire region.
Located in the geographical center of Chile, the city sits on the banks of the Mapocho River, surrounded by mountains that provide a distinctive landscape.
Santiago boasts a mild climate all year round, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Local Gems
Explore Barrio Lastarria for its bohemian vibe and Mercado Central to taste Chilean seafood delicacies.

What metro is near the Lastarria neighborhood?

The Universidad Católica and Bellas Artes metro stations directly access the Lastarria neighborhood.

What to do in the Lastarria neighborhood?

Cerro San Cristóbal.
Sky Costanera.
Cerro Santa Lucía.
Cousino Macul.
Casa Museo La Chascona.
Parque Bicentenario.
Barrio Lastarria.
Teleférico Santiago by Turistik.

Valparaíso

History 
Once a bustling port city, Valparaíso’s steep, cobbled streets whisper tales of 19th-century prosperity. Admire the well-preserved Victorian architecture and ride the iconic funiculars.

Why is Valparaíso famous?
Valparaíso, Chile is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, attracting students, foreigners, painters, poets, and writers inspired by the port city’s secrets and mysteries.

Insider Tip
Seek out La Sebastiana, one of Pablo Neruda‘s three houses, to glimpse the poet’s eccentric world.

San Pedro de Atacama

History
This ancient desert oasis has witnessed millennia of human history. Visit the Pukará de Quitor fortress and marvel at petroglyphs that trace back to early indigenous cultures.

When is the best time to go to San Pedro de Atacama?
If you want to avoid crowds and enjoy pleasant temperatures, the best times to visit San Pedro de Atacama are from March to May or September to November.

What to do in San Pedro de Atacama and its surroundings?

  • Los Flamencos National Reserve
  • Photographic tour in the Salar de Tara
  • Salar de Atacama: The largest salt space in Chile!
  • Cejar Lagoon and Hidden Lagoons of Baltinache
  • Andean towns: Toconao, Socaire and Machuca
  • Mars Valley, adrenaline in the sand dunes

Unforgettable Experience
Embark on a sunrise hot air balloon ride for a breathtaking view of the Martian-like landscape.

Chilean Patagonia

As you venture towards the southernmost tip of Chile, you will be greeted by a breathtaking landscape of unspoiled, untamed beauty.

The Chilean Patagonia is a region where nature is the ruler, and every vista is a work of art crafted by the hands of time.

Patagonia is also a land of superlatives. Towering granite spires, some seemingly touching the sky, pierce through the clouds in Torres del Paine National Park.
These iconic “Towers of Blue” are the guardians of a world where glaciers, ancient forests, and electric blue lakes conspire to create a landscape that seems plucked from a dream.

A Symphony of Solitude

Above all, Chilean Patagonia is a place of solitude and contemplation.
Here, the vastness of the landscape invites introspection, while the untamed beauty inspires a sense of wonder.

It’s a place where one can hear the whispers of the wind and the secrets of the land, where time slows, and the soul finds its refuge.

Patagonia is not just a destination; it’s an experience, a journey into the heart of nature itself.

It’s a reminder that there are still corners of the world where the wild prevails, and the human spirit finds its truest home.

Torres del Paine National Park

History
European settlers arrived in the late 19th century, leaving an indelible mark on this rugged wilderness. Hike through valleys carved by ancient glaciers and gaze at the iconic spires.

What is the best date to go to Torres del Paine?
Visiting the park between October and April is recommended for longer days, sunnier weather, and less rain.

Which airport is closest to Torres del Paine?
There are two airports to reach Torres del Paine: Teniente Julio Gallardo Aerodrome (PNT) in Puerto Natales, the closest, and Presidente Carlos Ibáñez del Campo Airport (PUQ) in Punta Arenas.

Hiking Tip
The ‘O’ circuit offers a comprehensive trek, taking you through the heart of this pristine wilderness.

Easter Island

History 
The Moai statues, carved between 1250 and 1500 AD, are an archaeological marvel. 

How long does it take from the mainland to Easter Island?
The average flight time is 5 hours and 23 minutes, the cheapest month being July.
Delta is the most popular airline.

Why is Easter Island famous?
 Easter Island, one of the most remote inhabited places on Earth, is renowned for its enigmatic and imposing statues called moais scattered throughout the island. 

Unique Experience
Opt for a private guided tour, where a local expert unveils the mysteries of Rapa Nui’s fascinating past.

Travel Insights

For Cultural Immersion

Attend a traditional Rapa Nui dance performance on Easter Island or join a cooking class in Valparaíso for an authentic taste of Chilean culture.

For Wine Connoisseurs

In the Central Valley, sample fine wines at vineyards like Concha y Toro or Viña Santa Rita and savor Chile’s celebrated wine heritage.

For Off-the-Beaten-Path

Discover the unique culture of Chiloé Island by visiting its palafitos (stilted houses) and Chonchi’s 18 wooden churches, listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

For Stargazing in Atacama

Join a guided astronomy tour for a mesmerizing view of the cosmos in one of the world’s premier stargazing locations.

 

Need help?

We are delighted to clear up any doubts you may have.

Let us work together to plan the perfect itinerary just for you!

+593-99 467 3430 
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