Iquique, located on Chile’s northern coast along the Pacific Ocean, is a city that seamlessly blends adventure, history, and relaxation. Known for its beautiful sandy beaches, it’s a hotspot for water sports such as surfing, bodyboarding, and one of the world’s best places for paragliding thanks to its coastal cliffs and steady winds. Watching the sunset from above the city while soaring over the desert-meets-ocean landscape is an experience unlike any other. The city itself is full of character, with a mix of colonial architecture and modern high-rises. Baquedano Street, a pedestrian avenue lined with 19th-century Georgian-style houses, reflects the wealth of the nitrate boom era. Iquique also has a thriving duty-free shopping district (Zona Franca), making it a great place to pick up goods at lower prices. Beyond the city, visitors can explore nearby ghost towns such as Humberstone and Santa Laura, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which tell the story of Chile’s once-booming nitrate industry. The combination of beach life, culture, history, and adventure makes Iquique a versatile and fascinating destination.
One of the most iconic destinations in South America, Torres del Paine National Park is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. Towering granite peaks, turquoise lakes, and glaciers make for jaw-dropping scenery. The famous “W Trek” and “O Circuit” hiking routes attract adventurers from around the globe, offering multi-day treks with world-class views. Wildlife spotting is also a highlight, with guanacos, condors, and even elusive pumas roaming the park. Even non-hikers will find ways to enjoy Torres del Paine, from scenic drives to boat trips on Grey Lake. It’s a bucket-list experience that showcases the raw power of Patagonia.
Valparaíso is a coastal gem and UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its colorful hillside houses, bohemian culture, and winding funiculars. Artists and poets, including Pablo Neruda, found inspiration in its vibrant streets. Walking through Valparaíso feels like strolling through an open-air museum, with murals covering every corner. Its historic port and steep hills create a unique charm unlike anywhere else in Chile. Cafés, boutiques, and galleries give the city a lively and creative pulse. Beyond the art, visitors can explore nearby beaches or take a short trip to Viña del Mar, a resort town known for its gardens and festivals. Valparaíso is the perfect destination for those who love creativity, history, and sea breezes.
Remote and mysterious, Easter Island is home to the iconic moai statues, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure. The island blends Polynesian culture with Chilean heritage, creating a fascinating cultural crossroads. Visitors can explore archaeological sites like Ahu Tongariki, relax on Anakena Beach, or hike to the Rano Kau volcanic crater. The stories and traditions of the Rapa Nui people add depth to the island’s allure. Getting here requires effort, but the reward is stepping into a living museum of history, mystery, and natural beauty. Easter Island is unlike anywhere else in the world.
The Atacama Desert is the driest place on Earth, yet full of life and breathtaking landscapes. Travelers flock to San Pedro de Atacama, the gateway to surreal salt flats, geysers, and flamingo-filled lagoons. Stargazing here is unmatched—thanks to clear skies and world-class observatories. Adventure seekers can also explore Valle de la Luna, with rock formations that look like a lunar landscape, or watch the sunrise at El Tatio geysers. Despite its remote setting, the Atacama offers comfortable accommodations and eco-lodges. It’s a dream destination for photographers, adventurers, and anyone seeking otherworldly scenery.
Official Chilean Government website with services and national information.
Official consular site with up-to-date visa and entry requirements.
The official tourism website highlighting destinations, activities, and itineraries.
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Heading to Chile? Here's a 14 day itinerary if you're visiting Chile with kids, that focuses on Santiago, the coast and the Atacama Desert.
A comprehensive budget travel guide to Chile with tips on what to see, costs, transportation, ways to save, and everything in between!
Chile travel blog with honest recommendations and opinions about San Pedro de Atacama, Santiago, Valparaiso, Easter Island, Punta Arenas and Puerto Natales.
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