Chile is a country like no other. Imagine being able to see bone-dry deserts, massive blue glaciers, and giant volcanoes all in the same vacation. It is one of the most geographically diverse places on the planet. Because it is so long and thin, it feels like a dozen different countries packed into one.
Whether you want to hike through wild national parks or eat amazing food in a busy city, there are endless things to do in Chile. However, because the country is so big, planning a trip can feel a little overwhelming. That is where we come in. At BRB Travels, we help you skip the stress by creating custom travel itineraries built just for you.
1. Explore the Wonders of the Atacama Desert
The Atacama Desert in northern Chile is the driest non-polar place on Earth. It looks more like the surface of Mars than a place on our planet.
One of the best things to do in Chile is visiting the Atacama salt flats, where you might even spot wild flamingos. You can also wake up early to see the El Tatio geysers shooting steam into the cold morning air. This high-altitude field is best visited at sunrise when the steam columns are most dramatic.
Because the air is so clear and there aren’t many city lights, it is also one of the best places in the world for stargazing. Looking up at the Milky Way here is an experience you will never forget. Many tours offer telescopes and hot cocoa while you learn about the constellations of the Southern Hemisphere.
2. Hike through Torres del Paine National Park
If you love the outdoors, Torres del Paine in Patagonia is a dream come true. This park is famous for its “W” and “O” hiking circuits. You’ll see dramatic granite peaks, bright blue lakes, and massive glaciers like the Grey Glacier.
While you are hiking, keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife like guanacos (they look a bit like llamas) and even the elusive puma. It’s a rugged, beautiful landscape that shows why Chile national parks are world-famous. Make sure to pack layers, as the weather in Patagonia can change from sunny to snowy in just a few minutes!
3. Discover the Culture of Santiago
Santiago is the heart of the country and usually the first stop on any Chile travel itinerary. It’s a vibrant city surrounded by the towering Andes mountains.
When you visit, make sure to:
- Eat fresh seafood: Head to the Mercado Central for a bowl of paila marina (seafood stew).
- Take a funicular: Ride up San Cristóbal Hill for the best views of the city skyline and the Virgin Mary statue.
- Visit the museums: The Museum of Memory and Human Rights is a powerful place to learn about Chile’s recent history.
4. Wander the Colorful Streets of Valparaíso
Just a short drive from Santiago is the coastal city of Valparaíso. This city is a maze of steep hills and bright, colorful houses. It was once one of the most important ports in the world, and today it is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Valparaíso is famous for its incredible street art—almost every wall is covered in a beautiful mural. Instead of walking up the steep hills, you can ride the historic funiculars, which are like old-fashioned outdoor elevators that have been running for over a hundred years. Exploring the “Cerros” (hills) is easily one of the most unique things to do in Chile. Visiting a county involves seeing the people, make sure to see our other posts on Chile and the places it has to offer!
5. Visit the Lake District (Pucón and Beyond)
For a change of pace, head to the Lake District. This area is full of perfectly shaped volcanoes with snow-capped tops and deep, clear lakes. The town of Pucón is the “adventure capital” of the region.
It’s the perfect spot for outdoor adventures like kayaking, fishing, or even climbing the active Villarrica Volcano. The small towns here have a lot of German influence, so you’ll see unique architecture and find delicious pastries called kuchen. After a long day of hiking, you can relax in one of the many natural hot springs (termas) scattered throughout the forest.
Why a Custom Travel Itinerary Makes Chile Easier to Explore
Chile is an amazing country, but it’s also very long—over 2,600 miles! Getting from the desert in the north to the glaciers in the south involves complex logistics and long flights. If you only have two weeks, you have to choose your stops carefully.
When you use our travel planning services, we take care of all those details for you. We make sure you spend less time worrying about buses and planes and more time enjoying curated experiences that fit your style. Whether you want a luxury wine tour or a rugged backpacking trip, we can build the perfect Chile travel itinerary for you.
6. Explore the Mystery of Easter Island (Rapa Nui)
Easter Island is one of the most remote places on Earth, located far out in the Pacific Ocean. It is world-famous for its “moai”—the giant stone statues carved by the Rapa Nui people centuries ago.
Seeing these massive faces standing along the coastline is a powerful experience. It’s a great place to learn about Polynesian culture while enjoying beautiful white-sand beaches like Anakena and exploring volcanic craters. While it requires a 5-hour flight from Santiago, most travelers agree it’s one of the best places to visit in Chile.
7. Go Wine Tasting in the Colchagua Valley
Chile is known for producing some of the best wine in the world, especially its signature grape, Carmenere. The Colchagua Valley is a beautiful region where you can tour vineyards and sample world-class wines. Even if you aren’t a wine expert, the rolling hills and historic estates make for a very relaxing day trip. Many vineyards even offer horse-drawn carriage tours!
8. See the Glaciers of the South
In the deep south, the landscape turns into a maze of fjords and ice. Taking a boat tour to see a glacier up close is one of the most popular things to do in Chile. You can visit the Bernardo O’Higgins National Park to see the Balmaceda and Serrano glaciers. Watching a massive chunk of blue ice “calve” (break off) and splash into the water is a sight you’ll never forget.
9. Relax on the Beaches of Zapallar
If you need some downtime, the town of Zapallar is one of the prettiest coastal spots in the country. Located about two hours north of Valparaíso, it’s a quiet, upscale area with a beautiful horseshoe-shaped beach. There is a wonderful stone path that winds along the rocky cliffs, perfect for a sunset stroll.
10. Go Skiing in the Andes
Since Chile is in the Southern Hemisphere, the seasons are the opposite of what they are in North America. This means you can go skiing in the Andes mountains during the months of June, July, and August! Resorts like Valle Nevado and Portillo offer world-class skiing just a short drive from Santiago. It’s one of the coolest things to do in Chile if you visit during the “off-season.”
Frequently Asked Questions!
Everything you need to know about planning you unforgettable trip to Chile!
What is Chile best known for?
Chile is famous for its diverse landscapes, ranging from the Atacama Desert to Patagonia, as well as its world-class wine and the mysterious statues of Easter Island.
Is Chile friendly to American tourists?
Yes! Chile is generally considered a very safe and welcoming country for travelers from the United States and all over the world. It has a modern infrastructure and many people in the tourism industry speak English.
Is 7 days enough in Chile?
While you can see a specific region (like Santiago and the Atacama Desert) in 7 days, it’s not enough time to see the whole country because it is so large. To see both the north and south, we recommend at least 10 to 14 days.
Do I need a visa to visit Chile from the USA?
If you are a U.S. citizen traveling for tourism, you do not need a visa to enter Chile for stays up to 90 days. You just need a valid passport. When you arrive, you will be given a “Tourist Card” (a small paper) that you must keep until you leave the country.
Is Chile safe for solo travelers and families?
Yes, Chile is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in South America! Whether you are traveling alone or with your family, you can feel comfortable exploring most areas.
Ready to Start Your Adventure?
Chile offers an incredible variety of experiences for every type of traveler. From the driest deserts to the iciest glaciers, there are so many things to do in Chile that you could visit a dozen times and still see something new.
Don’t let the planning hold you back. Let us help you create a trip that you will talk about for years to come. Our experts know the hidden gems and the best ways to get around this beautiful country.