South America · 26 Places · Best December to February (summer)
Chile stretches 4,300 km along South America's Pacific coast, offering stunning diversity from the Atacama Desert in the north to Patagonian glaciers in the south. Experience world-class wine regions, vibrant cities like Santiago and Valparaíso, and breathtaking natural wonders including Torres del Paine National Park.
Chile stretches 4,300 km along South America's Pacific coast, offering stunning diversity from the Atacama Desert in the north to Patagonian glaciers in the south. Experience world-class wine regions, vibrant cities like Santiago and Valparaíso, and breathtaking natural wonders including Torres del Paine National Park.
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
The 26 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Chile's most famous national park features dramatic granite peaks, pristine lakes, and the iconic W Trek. The park's centerpiece is the three granite towers that give it its name, rising 2,500 meters above the Patagonian steppe. World-class trekking through glaciers, forests, and windswept plains.
The driest desert on Earth offers surreal landscapes including salt flats, geysers, and rainbow-colored mountains. Visit Valle de la Luna for otherworldly rock formations, witness flamingos at Chaxa Lagoon, and experience world-class stargazing at ALMA Observatory.
Remote Polynesian island famous for nearly 900 monolithic moai statues. Explore ancient ceremonial villages, volcanic craters, and pristine beaches while learning about the fascinating Rapa Nui culture. A UNESCO World Heritage Site located 3,700 km off Chile's coast.
Colorful UNESCO World Heritage port city with steep hillsides covered in vibrant street art. Ride historic funiculars, explore bohemian neighborhoods, and enjoy Pacific Ocean views. This artistic hub features winding streets, colonial architecture, and a thriving cultural scene.
Stunning natural wonder featuring swirling blue marble caverns carved by water over 6,000 years. Accessible only by boat, these caves reflect turquoise waters creating mesmerizing patterns. Located on General Carrera Lake near the Argentina border.
Moon-like landscape in the Atacama Desert with salt formations, sand dunes, and dramatic rock sculptures. Watch spectacular sunsets from sand dunes as colors shift across the valley. Part of Los Flamencos National Reserve with unique geological formations.
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Luxurious neoclassical hotel in historic Lastarria neighborhood featuring rooftop pool, spa, and Michelin-quality restaurant. Housed in beautifully restored 1920s building with contemporary design elements. Exceptional service and attention to detail.
Check rates on Booking.comCharming hotel in trendy Lastarria neighborhood with rooftop terrace overlooking Santa Lucía Hill. Comfortable rooms with local design touches, complimentary breakfast, and walking distance to museums and restaurants.
Check rates on Booking.comSustainable hostel in Santiago's Providencia neighborhood with private rooms and dorms. Social atmosphere, communal kitchen, terrace with city views, and helpful staff. Great base for budget travelers.
Check rates on Booking.comAward-winning luxury lodge on shores of Lake Sarmiento with panoramic Torres del Paine views. All-inclusive experience includes guided excursions, gourmet meals, spa treatments, and wine tastings. Sustainable architecture blends into Patagonian landscape.
Check rates on Booking.comCafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
World-renowned restaurant (#38 in World's 50 Best) showcasing Chilean ingredients through innovative tasting menus. Chef Rodolfo Guzmán creates artistic dishes using endemic plants, seafood, and traditional techniques. Unforgettable culinary experience in Santiago.
Unique restaurant celebrating Chile's indigenous culinary heritage from Mapuche, Rapa Nui, and Aymara cultures. Tasting menus feature ancestral ingredients and traditional cooking methods in modern presentation.
Iconic Santiago sandwich shop operating since 1954, famous for massive lomitos and chacareros. Standing room only, fast service, and authentic Chilean experience. A must-visit institution.
Santiago's historic fish market with restaurant stalls serving ultra-fresh seafood. Try ceviche, machas, and paila marina. Bustling atmosphere and authentic experience. Watch for tourist pricing.
Hip Lastarria café serving specialty coffee, fresh pastries, and brunch. Modern industrial design, excellent coffee sourcing, and cozy atmosphere. Great for working or meeting friends.
Chef Kurt Schmidt's elegant restaurant in Providencia serving modern Chilean cuisine with French influences. Seasonal menus highlighting local ingredients, excellent wine list, and intimate atmosphere.
Transportation options in Chile include local buses, taxis, and rental cars. Check local conditions before planning your travel.
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $12-20 USD (hostel dorm) | $40-60 USD (private room in hostel or budget hotel) | $120-250+ USD (4-5 star hotels, boutique lodges) |
| Food (per day) | $12-18 USD (markets, street food, self-catering) | $25-35 USD (mix of casual restaurants and markets) | $50-100+ USD (fine dining, wine tastings) |
| Transportation | $5-8 USD (local buses, metro) | $10-15 USD (mix of buses, occasional taxis) | $20-40 USD (taxis, rental cars, private transfers) |
| Activities | $6-10 USD (free attractions, hiking) | $15-25 USD (paid attractions, tours) | $40-80+ USD (premium tours, wine country, adventure activities) |
| Daily total | $35-50 USD | $80-120 USD | $200-400+ USD |
Keep valuables secured and avoid displaying expensive items
Stay aware in crowded tourist areas like Cerro San Cristóbal and Mercado Central
Avoid walking alone after dark, especially in Santiago
Keep copies of passport and important documents separate from originals
Be prepared for occasional demonstrations that may disrupt transportation
Register with your embassy or consulate before arrival — Chile experiences earthquakes; know the evacuation plan at your accommodation and heed official tsunami alerts near coastal areas.
Use only official taxis (yellow with black roof and license plate sticker) or rideshare apps like Uber or Cabify; unlicensed taxis at Santiago Arturo Merino Benitez Airport charge inflated fares.
Santiago metro is generally safe but pickpocketing spikes during rush hours (7-9am and 6-8pm); keep bags in front and avoid displaying phones or cameras on crowded Line 1 trains.
ATM fraud is a real risk -- use machines inside bank branches during business hours, shield your PIN, and check card slots for skimmer devices before inserting your card.
UV radiation is extremely high in the Atacama Desert and Patagonia -- apply SPF 50+ sunscreen every two hours, wear a wide-brim hat, and protect your eyes with UV-rated sunglasses.
Chile is one of South America's safest countries for travellers. Santiago is generally safe in tourist neighbourhoods with normal urban precautions. Major risks are petty theft and taxi overcharging rather than violent crime. Emergency services: police at 133, medical at 131.
The best time to visit Chile is December to February (summer). Chile's climate is extraordinarily diverse across its 4,300 km length. The north is dominated by the hyper-arid Atacama Desert (essentially no rain, intense sun, cold nights). Central Chile including
No visa required for stays up to 90 days. Tourist Card issued upon arrival, passport must be valid for 6 months beyond travel dates. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
The currency in Chile is the Chilean Peso (CLP) (CLP). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
The main language(s) spoken in Chile: Spanish. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
The top attractions in Chile include Torres del Paine National Park, Atacama Desert, Easter Island (Rapa Nui), Valparaíso Historic Quarter, and Marble Caves (Cuevas de Mármol). Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.
