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Chile Tours & Trips

• Atacama Desert

Torres del Paine National Park

• Chile Hiking & Trekking
• Chile 10 day
• Chile 7 day

227 Chile tour packages with 399 reviews

Epic Patagonia

"Everything, from accommodations, meals, flights, pickups and transfers went so smoothly. The weather was kind to us and the scenery so beautiful." Susanne, traveled in September 2023

Essential Patagonia

"Highly recommend. I appreciated having the extra day at Glacier Grey." Denise, traveled in December 2021

Torres del Paine - The W Trek

"The scenery was stunning and the money spent was well worth it." Emily, traveled in March 2022

Northern Highway (Carretera Austral) - Group Tour

"The salt flats are incredible, and we saw loads of flamingos! Highlight is the hot springs - we went in in the evening which was amazing watching the stars!" Amy, traveled in September 2022

• Book With Flexibility View tour Download Brochure

W-Trek in Torres del Paine Standard – Self Guided (5 Days / 4 Nights)

"I highly recommend the tour company. Will come back!!" Juan, traveled in April 2023

Patagonia: Torres Del Paine ‘W’ Trek – 5 Days

"I had a great time on this tour. I would recommend renting crampons and bringing a warm sleeping bag." Sampson, traveled in May 2024

6-Days trip to Easter Island

"This island is something wonderful, since it has a lot of history, for many, many years. Something that is undeniably admirable are the great sculptures that characterize this island." JackCastelli, traveled in July 2019

• 10% deposit on some dates

Looking for tours beyond just Chile?

Explore tours with itineraries going through multiple countries, including Chile.

8 - Days Experience in San Pedro de Atacama & Torres del Paine National Park

"This trip was so amazing from start to finish! Truly a once in a life time experience!" Ania, traveled in January 2023

Santiago de Chile and Lakes Region (10 Days)

Chilean Patagonia: Santiago, Punta Arenas, Puerto Natales, Torres del Paine National Park & Viña del Mar - 8 days

"The tour was very good, and I had a great time." Theresa, traveled in February 2022

What people love about Chile Tours

Epic adventure, everything was perfectly organized

An incredible trip with OneSeed - I was debating between this and a G Adventures tour and so glad I chose them! I had only three people in my group and the guide was the loveliest man, and so kind. It was the best way to do the W Trek and took out all of the stress! Highly recommend to all thinking of booking with this company! They were so good in the run up too, and even helped me with other parts of my Patagonia itinery.

Had an amazing experience with Natasha, Martin and Nacho! They were so knowledgeable and kind and made the trek SO fun and enjoyable! They always had the biggest smiles on their face and shared so much kindness to everyone in the group. Would recommend this trip to everyone I know!

Most popular destinations in Chile

Andes Mountains

Embark on an unforgettable adventure to the Andean Mountains, the longest continental mountain range in the world. Hike the legendary Inca Trail, witness the otherworldly Rainbow Mountain, and explore the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu.

Patagonia invites you with its vast, untouched landscapes. Trek the rugged Andes Mountains, canoe in azure lakes, spot wildlife in Torres Del Paine, sail the Beagle Channel, and witness the beauty of the Perito Moreno Glacier.

Chile Austral

Find the right tour package for you through Chile Austral. We've got 58 trips going to Chile Austral, starting from just 3 days in length, and the longest tour is 23 days. The most popular month to go is November, which has the most tour departures.

Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia is a hiking paradise, spoiling visitors with otherworldly scenery. Expect rugged mountains, stunning lakes, diverse wildlife (pumas, condors, and guanacos), glaciers, and waterfalls.

More exciting destinations:

Travel Chile your way

Find the perfect tour for your family, catering to all ages with over 153 family tours available in Chile.

Discover hidden gems and off-the-beaten paths with over adventures available in Chile.

Fully Guided

Select from our extensive range of 98 fully guided tours to enjoy a worry-free experience through Chile with our expert guides leading the way.

Partially Guided

Find the right partially guided tour for you in Chile. There are 83 trips to choose from, that range from 3 days in length, up to 21 days. The month with the most departures is November, making it the most popular time to visit Chile.

More travel styles:

Top operators in Chile

"Epic adventure, everything was perfectly organized

OneSeed Expeditions is an expert in:

• Hiking & Trekking

"Booked 17 people on a maximum 16 tour . When questioned said it was it a combined tour and only the first half was 16 people . Tour itinerary was good but you were constantly forking out to pay for optional tours as there were very few inclusions . Some accommodation was good and other terrible .

G Adventures is an expert in:

• In-depth Cultural

"Horrible Experience - Not Worth the Money Our South American Capitals Tour with TourRadar was a joke. Constant miscommunications and lack of coordination between Riwal and Alfonso led to daily frustrations. Tour guides had very poor English even though this entire experience was advertised as a “tour operated in English.” The shared itinerary was not followed, including an announced hotel change which only added to our confusion and stress. The language barriers throughout the trip made us question how much we even learned about these destinations. We paid a premium for a headache-filled experience that we could have easily arranged ourselves for less. Avoid TourRadar/Ecuador Galapagos Travels if you value your safety and peace of mind.

Ecuador Galapagos Travels is an expert in:

Best time to visit Chile

• March 2025 popular 168 tours
• April 2025 141 tours
• May 2025 103 tours
• July 2024 145 tours
• August 2024 popular 146 tours
• September 2024 165 tours
• October 2024 186 tours
• November 2024 popular 198 tours
• December 2024 popular 190 tours
• January 2025 173 tours
• February 2025 177 tours

Contact our Chile travel experts

Expert in Chile at TourRadar

Esteban is one of our seasoned Chile Travel Experts. Reach out to us to get all your questions about Chile tours answered!

• Choose from 227+ Chile tours
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Guide Types

• Small Group (137)
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Budget/Luxury

• Budget (64)

Demographics

• Solo Travelers (209)
• Couples (43)
• Seniors (128)
• 7 Day Tours (118)
• 10 Day Tours (44)
• 2 Week Tours (35)
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Chile Tours starting in

• Santiago (84)
• Puerto Natales (22)
• Punta Arenas (17)
• Chile Travel Guide | All You Need to Know

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"From the world's driest desert to the Patagonia glaciers, and from the sunny vineyards to the Moai of Easter Island, I'll show you how to navigate all the diverse landscapes of Chile."

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Discover the colourful fishing town of Puerto Natales

See the bright rooftops of Puerto Natales, a fishing town in the Señoret Channel in southern Patagonia. It’s the famous gateway to Torres del Paine, but the city has its own treasures. Take a walk along the waterfront where you can spot wild swans and ducks, and admire the backdrop of rugged mountains.

Visit Torres del Paine National Park

Venture deep into UNESCO-listed crown jewel of Chilean Patagonia with our Local Specialists. Explore the churning Salto Grande waterfall and the famous peaks of the Cordillera Paine. Take a boat ride to see the Grey Glacier and embark on hikes to see the incredible natural icons up close.

See the icy turquoise sheets of the Serrano Glacier

We’ll take you on a spectacular boat ride through icy fjords to see the glittering blue Serrano Glacier. Join our Local Specialists for a hike through the unspoiled rainforest to Seno de Última Esperanza (Fjord of the Last Hope), where you’ll enjoy magnificent views of the Southern Patagonian Icefield.

Boat up the Rio Serrano

Our Chile private tours will take you on a boat journey up the Rio Serrano, a river winding through the Magallanes wilderness of Chile. The Serrano takes you past a trove of natural beauty, from the dazzling blue Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers, to the Southern Patagonian Icefield and Seno de Última Esperanza.

Explore the capital of Chile, colorful Santiago

Santiago is the vibrant capital of Chile and our Local Specialists will reveal the wonders of the city. Climb Cerro Santa Lucia for panoramic views, explore the Central Market and sample local delicacies, or visit the Casablanca Valley where you’ll meet a local winemaker and enjoy an exclusive tasting in the beautiful vineyards.

Our top 5 things to do in Chile

Discover the highlights and hidden gems of the country on our Chile vacation tours, from the jagged peaks of Torres del Paine to the scenic beauty of the Rio Serrano.

Chascona House Museum

Located in the Bellavista neighborhood of Santiago, Chascona House was the home of Chilean poet Pablo Neruda. He named the home ‘La Chascona’ (‘tangle-haired woman’) after his wife Matilde, and today it’s an excellent museum full of his personal possessions, including a painting by Diego Rivera.

Museum of Memory and Human Rights

Set in Santiago, the Museum of Memory and Human Rights was founded to commemorate the victims of human rights abuses during the regime of Chilean dictator Augusto Pinochet between 1973 and 1990. The museum has three floors with audio exhibits, interactive photography, newspaper archives and video footage of detention centres.

Chilean National Museum of Fine Arts

Housed in a beautiful building across from the Parque Forestal in Santiago, the Chilean National Museum of Fine Arts holds one of the finest collections of Chilean and Latin art. You’ll wander through the spectacular entrance to discover over 5,000 works ranging from Spanish paintings to African sculptures.

Best museums in Chile

Our escorted tours of Chile take you to the country’s top museums, from the former home of Chilean poet Pablo Neruda, to a commemoration of the victims of the Pinochet regime.

Traditionally made from deep-fried wheat dough, a sopaipilla is South America’s version of doughnuts. In Chile, they’re made with pumpkin in the dough, and served as a side dish with pebre, a chili sauce, or as a delicious dessert after being boiled in a chancaca sauce, a hot sweet syrup.

A classic Chilean condiment found across the country, pebre is served with many meals including fried sopaipilla, or spread on bread and meat. It’s a sauce of chili pepper, garlic, onion, olive oil and coriander, although variations can be found in different regions and households.

Empanadas are a beloved dish across Latin America. In Chile, they’re traditionally made with a filling called ‘pino’, a mix of ground beef, raisins, onions, black olives and hard boiled eggs. Our Local Specialists will show you where to try the best empanadas at any time of the year.

Best food in Chile

We’ll take you on a culinary journey through Chile, as we reveal the best places to try classic empanadas and delicious sopaipilla.

What to pack for Chile

Hiking shoes

Whether you’re trekking the snowy peaks of Patagonia, or traversing ancient volcanoes in the Atacama Desert, you’ll need a sturdy pair of shoes in Chile.

Wind and waterproof coat

The southern region of Chile is known for its fierce winds and chilly weather, so you’ll need a reliable coat to protect you from the elements.

Reusable water bottle

Chile is full of outdoor adventure and a reusable water bottle will help you stay hydrated without contributing to the plastic waste in the pristine national parks.

Adaptor plug

In Chile the standard voltage is 220 V and the power plugs and sockets are of type C and L. The standard frequency is 50 Hz.

Chile is enormous, spanning the equivalent of the entire length of the USA, and a pair of headphones will provide entertainment on the long scenic journeys.

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and refillable toiletry bottles.

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Chile Tours & Vacations

From the eclectic sprawl of Santiago to the glacial fjords of Chilean Patagonia, the world’s longest country is jam-packed with adventure.

Get ready to be treated to a land of contrasts from the hip capital of Santiago with its funky graffitied neighborhoods, to the coastal town of Valparaiso made famous by the poetry of Pablo Neruda. Taste your way through a family-owned wine estate in Casablanca Valley, explore the Mars-like landscape of the Atacama Desert or discover Patagonia's awe-inspiring Torres del Paine National Park. Follow the flow of  Chile  and you'll undoubtedly collect the best of South America along the way.

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Easter Island (Rapa Nui) Short Break

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Travelling to Chile? Here’s the best time to go

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The top 7 destinations for travel in March 2024

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Hiking in Torres del Paine? Here’s what you need to know

How to have a positive impact on Patagonia’s Torres del Paine

Chile at a glance

Capital city.

Santiago (population 6.9 million)

19.6 million

Chilean Peso (CLP)

(GMT-04:00) Santiago

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type L (Italian 3-pin)

Learn more about Chile

Culture and customs.

With the Andes on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other, Chile’s geographic isolation has resulted in a distinct national identity. About 95 per cent of Chileans share a mixture of European (predominantly Spanish) and indigenous ancestry.

For many, being Chilean often means celebrating huaso (Chilean cowboy) culture, going to rodeos, dancing the cueca (Chile’s national dance performed in traditional huaso clothing), eating empanadas and drinking pisco.

Spanish is the national language, though Chileans tend to speak fast, drop consonants and litter their speech with a healthy dose of chilenismos (Chilean slang).

Life is focused around the family with frequent get-togethers to share food in good company. More than half of Chileans are Roman Catholics and there is a growing number (estimated at 25 per cent of the population) who are ‘unaffiliated’ – choosing not to identify with a religion.

While many Chileans are traditional in their views, the younger generations are challenging cultural norms and politics is often a passionate topic among youths.

Geography and environment

Chile is a land of quirky geographical characteristics, most noticeably its incredible length. Measuring in at over 4600km long, yet only 430km wide, Chile covers a massive geographic scale that includes a variety of landscapes and an impressive coastline.

Straddled by the epic Andes, this gigantic mountain range acts as a natural border with  Argentina  in the east, while the Pacific Ocean - including the remote Chilean territory of Easter Island - forms the western coastline.

The capital and largest city, Santiago, lies inland, roughly in the center of the country. Further north, Chile shares a border with  Peru  and  Bolivia , as well as the largest section of the parched Atacama Desert, one of the world’s driest places.

South of Santiago, Chile unfolds into the wilderness playground of Patagonia - a largely uninhabited, prehistoric landscape brimming with forests and enormous glaciers.

Discover Patagonia on our 6 day trekking trip in Torres del Paine National Park

Festivals and events

Chile has a busy events calendar with many festivals to celebrate the diversity of its culture throughout the year. Here are some of the country's biggest events:

Fiesta de la Tirana

Each July, the quiet streets of La Tirana morph into a massive dance floor filled with masked performers acting out the ‘Dance of the Devils’. Blending indigenous culture with Catholic tradition, some say the festival honors the Virgin Mary, while others say it honors an indigenous warrior princess.

Either way, it's a fascinating experience seeing the frenetic dancing, fireworks and tasty foods that make up Chile’s largest religious festival.

Festival de la Vendimia (Wine Harvest Festival)

Chile’s wine regions take it up a notch in March and April when weekend-long festivals celebrate the harvest and rural life. Think cowboys, country food and folk dancing. With so many wine regions, it can be hard to know which festival to check out, though Curico Valley’s festival is the longest-running and widely regarded as the biggest.

Fiestas Patrias (Independence Day)

As a fiercely patriotic nation that loves a good party, Fiestas Patrias is a big deal. Each September, flags are hung, and the aroma of barbeque fills the air as people eat, drink, dance and celebrate. Look for a fonda (huge tent party) and join locals as they party into the wee hours of the morning.  

Tapati Rapa Nui (Easter Island Tapati Festival)

Get a glimpse of Easter Island’s vibrant Polynesian heritage at this spectacular two-week festival in February. It features dancing, chanting, carving competitions, body painting, a string figure (kai kai) contest, and so much more.

Public holidays that may impact travel include:

Feast of Saints Peter and Paul

National Unity Day

Independence Day

Discovery of Two Worlds Day

All Saint’s Day

Immaculate Consumption

Please note dates of Chile's public holidays may vary.

Food and drink

Chilean cuisine is all about seasonal produce and simplicity. Potatoes, corn and quinoa are staple ingredients in many traditional dishes, including pastel de choclo (corn pie) and humitas (steamed corn pudding wrapped in corn husks).

Chile’s extensive coastline provides a wide array of seafood. Visit one of the country’s many marisquerias (fish restaurants) to try picorocos (barnacles) or erizos (sea urchin). Most places serve fish grilled with a little seasoning. Ceviche is also a dietary mainstay.

Chileans also love their meat. Like in Brazil and Argentina, a leisurely asado (barbeque) is a cherished tradition. Held either in a backyard or a specially equipped park, an asado can stretch for hours and always features lots of grilled beef, pork, sausage, lamb and Chilean wine. If you don’t manage to snag an invitation to an asado from a local, head to a parrillada instead – a restaurant that serves grilled meats.

Here are some must-try foods in Chile:

1. Mote con huesillo

Dried peaches and husked wheat are stewed in a sugary syrup to create Chile’s favorite summertime treat. The perfect reward after a long day of exploring. 

2. Pastel de choclo

A hearty Andean pie of ground beef or chicken and vegetables, topped with pureed sweet corn is a local favorite. 

The perfect dish to warm your bones on a cold day, cazuela is a thin stew of chicken or beef with corn on the cob, potatoes, pumpkin and noodles. Do as the locals and drink the broth first.

Things to buy in Chile

Most towns will have a local market where you can pick up handmade souvenirs. You'll also find large shopping centers in big cities. Head to Avenida Alonso de Córdova in Santiago for boutique and luxury stores and trendy bars.

Keep in mind that haggling isn't part of Chilean culture, so prices are usually fixed, and most markets and street vendors deal only with cash. Stores are typically open between 10 am and 9 or 10 pm Monday through Friday.

Many stores are only open during the morning on Saturdays and are closed on Sundays, though these hours can vary in tourist areas. Shops in smaller cities also tend to close for lunch and take a siesta between 1 and 5 pm.

Here are a few things to buy in Chile.

1. Alpaca clothing

Sweaters, gloves, scarves and other items made from alpaca wool are a South American specialty. Both unique and practical, alpaca wool does a good job of blocking out high altitude chill.

2. Lapis lazuli jewellery

The Romans considered it an aphrodisiac, and Cleopatra was said to powder it for use as an eyeshadow. Lapis lazuli has quite a history, but these days the semiprecious indigo-blue stone is found only in Chile and Afghanistan.

Cheaper here than lapis sold abroad, it's still a somewhat pricey purchase. The general rule of thumb is the deeper the color, the better the quality, and always shop at reputable stores to ensure you’re not sold a fake.

3. Mapuche silverware

Indigenous women of the Lake District traditionally wore handcrafted silver earrings, headdresses and other pieces of jewelry as a sign of wealth. Dramatic silver pieces are still made by Mapuche women in this region today.

You might recognize the grape-based brandy known as pisco from Peru, but Chile shares the claim too. The battle of the birthplace of pisco has been going on for centuries.

Must-visit places in Chile

With so much on offer in Chile, from glacier trekking to wine tasting, it can be hard to choose which places to visit. Here are  a few must-visit places  to consider.

1. Santiago

Santiago is Chile's bustling capital. Set within a circle of snow-capped mountains, this city is a stone's throw from outdoor adventures (if you can ever leave, that is). From traditional European buildings in artsy neighborhoods to a brilliant food scene and thriving nightclubs, Santiago has it all.

2. Valparaiso

With its colorful buildings, mural-filled streets and labyrinthine laneways lined with cafes and galleries, Valparaiso  is arguably Chile's most creative city. Sip pisco sours on a rooftop in the historic center, rub shoulders with local artists or visit a restaurant credited with the invention of chorrillana.

Discover Santiago and Valparaiso on our Premium & Argentina trip

3. Patagonia

Chile and Argentina both stake a claim over  Patagonia  — and it's no wonder when the region is  this  beautiful. Think rolling grasslands flanked by snow-clad peaks, remarkably blue lakes, beech forests and huge glaciers. Patagonia was practically made for adventuring.

Trek past glaciers and mountains on our Patagonia Wilderness trip

4. San Pedro de Atacama

Welcome to the driest town on earth. San Pedro de Atacama is also home to some of Chile's most dramatic landscapes, from hissing geysers to imposing volcanoes and sprawling salt flats. Go sandboarding in the dunes, explore the stunning Moon Valley or admire one of the most impressive night skies you've ever seen.

Explore San Pedro de Atacama on our Epic Peru, Bolivia & Argentina trip

Similar destinations

Inspired by Chile but still curious about other destinations? Check out our tours to neighboring countries:

Uruguay tours

If you've narrowed it down to Argentina and Chile,  check out our Chile vs Argentina blog  to help you decide.

Further reading

Chile travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Chile?

Travelers from over 90 countries do not need a visa to enter Chile. This includes passport holders from other South American countries, the European Union, the United Kingdom, the United States and Canada. Visa-exempt travelers will usually receive an entry stamp valid for 90 days on arrival.

Citizens from other countries will need to apply for a visa online or at your nearest embassy or consulate prior to travel. Tourist visas can grant entry for up to 90 days.

Visit the official Chilean Consulate website for more information .

In any case, your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Chile.

The page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 07/12/2023

When is the best time to visit Chile?

Chile’s substantial length ensures that the climate is incredibly varied, and the best time to visit depends on your chosen destinations.

Summer (December to March) is possibly the best time to visit Chile, as the Parque Nacional Torres del Paine and lakes region are reasonably warm. However, the trade-off is that the Atacama Desert can be very hot during this time. Summer is also festival time, so it's a good chance to experience Chile’s unique culture.

For the central and northern regions, autumn is a comfortable time to visit, but note that it can be quite cold in the south, especially at night.

Snowfall is common during winter (July to September) in the south of the country, so this is the ideal time for a skiing or snowboarding holiday.

Is tipping customary in Chile?

It's customary to lea ve an extra 10% on top of your restaurant bill if you've had great service. The same goes for tipping porters and other service workers. Feel free to leave spare change or tip extra if you're particularly impressed with the service.

What is the internet access like in Chile?

Wi-fi access is widely available in cafes, bars and restaurants in cities and tourist areas. However, you may struggle to find wi-fi in rural and remote areas.

Can I use my cell phone while in Chile?

Cell phone coverage is good in Chile’s cities, but may not be available in rural and mountainous areas. Ensure global roaming is activated with your service provider before leaving home.

What are the toilets like in Chile?

Toilets in Chile will vary depending on what area you are traveling in. Flushable, western-style toilets are common in the cities, large hotels, malls, and clubs but more modest squat toilets are the standard in rural areas and while camping. Either way, carrying a supply of toilet paper and soap is a good idea, as these aren’t always available in public toilets.

Can I drink the water in Chile?

Tap water is generally safe to drink in Chile, though some may get an upset stomach from the different mineral content. If you have a delicate stomach, you may want to opt for filtered water to avoid this. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, bring a reusable water bottle that can be filled with filtered water. Your leader or hotel can tell you where to find filtered water.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Chile?

Major credit cards are widely accepted in Chile’s large cities and towns but may not be accepted by smaller vendors such as family restaurants and market stalls in small towns and rural areas. Make sure to carry enough cash when visiting these parts in case credit cards are not an option.

What is ATM access like in Chile?

ATMs are found widely throughout Chile, so withdrawing cash shouldn't be problematic in most areas. Some smaller villages and rural areas may not have ATM access, so prepare for this before venturing too far from a city or major town.

Will I experience altitude sickness in Chile?

Most people can start to feel the effects of altitude at over 6561ft ( 2000m) regardless of age, gender, or fitness level. Santiago is well below this elevation, but travelers heading to San Pedro de Atacama and the northern and central Andes might experience symptoms of high altitude. It’s important to take it easy, drink plenty of water and speak to your group leader at once if you feel unwell.

We recommend seeing your doctor if you have any health concerns before undertaking the trip, particularly if you have a pre-existing medical condition or take any medication.

Do I need any vaccinations before visiting Chile?

No vaccines are required in order to enter Chile but some are recommended for protection against disease. Visit your doctor or travel clinic for advice and make sure to schedule vaccinations 4–6 weeks before your departure date, as some require time to become effective.

Is Chile a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Chile is a relatively hassle-free destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers. Though traditionally a very Catholic and conservative nation, attitudes are slowly changing. Same-sex marriage was legalized in 2015 and people are now more open about their sexuality.

Santiago hosts an annual gay pride parade and has an active gay scene, particularly in Barrio Bellavista. Beach resorts such as Vina del Mar also have a number of gay clubs. You may find that attitudes are less liberal outside of big cities.

Transgender rights and public attitudes are also developing. The Chilean government signed a bill into law in 2019 to allow people aged 18 and over to change their legal gender and name on Chile's Civil Registry. Teenagers between the ages of 14 and 18 can also do so in court.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting   Equaldex  or   ILGA   before you travel.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip to Chile support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Chile directly support our foundation partner, Torres Del Paine Legacy Fund . 

Torres Del Paine Legacy Fund  

The Huemul, also known as the South Andean Deer, are almost exclusively found in southern Patagonia and are currently endangered. Torres del Paine Legacy Fund is helping to conserve the endangered huemul by improving visitor management, advancing community education and tourism industry engagement, and mitigating the human-wildlife conflict in Torres del Paine National Park. Donations from our trips help Torres del Paine's huemul habitat conservation work.

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.  

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Professional, multilingual & certified tour guides, “at your own pace” schedules & itineraries, free airport transfers on tour date, 24-hour customer service with tour coordinator, customized & tailored tours available, flexible & no hassle cancellation policy, full-day & multi-day private tours.

Departures from Santiago, Valparaiso, Viña de Mar and San Antonio

Santiago Tours

Andes Mountains Tours

Pacific coast Tours

Wine Vineyard Tours

Adventure Tours

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Multi-Day Private Tours

Torres del Paine National Park – Waterfalls – Catamaran Cruise – Balmaceda & Serrano Glaciers – Isla Magdalena Penguin Colony

Land of Volcanos: Lakes Region and Chiloe Island

Petrohue Falls – Osorno Volcano – Todos Los Santos Lake – Frutillar – Puerto Varas – Penguins

La Serena and Elqui Valley Road Trip Tour

Isla Damas Humboldt Penguin Reserve – Papaya Plantation – Pisco Distilleries – Wine – Stargazing

Geysers – Moon Valley – Rainbow Valley – Lagoons – Salt Flats – Volcanos – Petroglyphs – Stargazing

Discover Chile Dream Tour

Santiago – Valparaiso – Lakes Region – Patagonia – Atacama

Private Cruise Shore Excursions & Pre- and Post-Cruise Private Tours

Shore Excursions From San Antonio

Shore Excursions from Valparaiso

Shore Excursions from Puerto Montt

Shore Excursions from Punta Arenas

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“I have been traveling the world for 10 years and I have never had a more pleasant company than Chile Dream Tours.  From the organization, the attention, the experience and the kindness thinking about the things that matter to you. Look no more, book here and you will see for yourself . “

“If you would like to invest your time wisely, you must use Chile Dream Tours! Our guide was excellent, timely, reliable, flexible and enjoyable.      I am in the hospitality industry so to me this type of service is top notch! Thank you so very much for a beautiful time!”

“We had a wonderful day with our guides. Nothing was too much trouble. They really looked after us. We would definitely recommend them to anyone visiting Chile. Thank you, Chile Dream Tours, you made us feel extremely welcome and in good hands.        A gem of a company ! “

“We actually did two days in a row with Chile Dream Tours and we cannot say enough about their style, knowledge, kindness, and professionalism. Our guides for both days were amazing. We were treated like a combination of royalty and old long-lost friends! “

“We were greeted by our tour guide and right away we knew this tour was going to be awesome. The guide was absolutely fantastic with his knowledge about Chile, taking care of all our needs.  If you are in Chile you 100% need to go with Chile Dream Tours! “

“We did our first tour to see Santiago. Our guide was wonderful. We then traveled to Patagonia and on our return did three more tours. We were not disappointed at all!   Chile Dream Tours is a wonderful agency.  They bend over backwards to meet your wishes. “

“We took 16 students on a study abroad trip and Chile Dream Tours was invaluable. Every detail was taken care of for us and they went above and beyond to ensure we had everything we needed and got the most out of our trip. Absolutely the best choice when looking for a tour company! “

“Our guide was the consummate host; warm, welcoming and very knowledgeable . Highly recommended! Chile Dream Tours created a terrific experience and they gave us wonderful memories that will last forever .”

“From the pre-planning to the logistics of the day, Chile Dream Tours was incredible. Our private tour connected us with exactly the experience we wanted and the rafting was so perfectly and professionally handled – I couldn’t recommend them any more highly.”

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Punta Arenas

Why Choose a Chile Tour?

Chile’s diversity stretches as long as the country itself. From spectacular Patagonia and Torres Del Paine in the south, to coastal fjords and glaciers, to the eerie desert landscape of Atacama and ancient traditions of Rapa Nui, our Chile tours cover it all. Chile tours are as active as you wish with numerous options for adventure for all ability levels. Hike and trek remote circuits in Patagonia. Kayak and stand-up paddleboard in highland lakes. Soak in desert hot springs or swim in refreshing salt lagoons in Atacama. Fully guided adventure explorations are part of every Chile vacation tour. Our Adventure Specialists know the best Chile land tours and experiences. We work with you to customize the best itinerary for your interests, ability and budget. Want to add a wine tour in Santiago? We can do that. Do you prefer extra days of trekking in Patagonia?  No problem. Want to upgrade your lodge in Atacama? We’ve got you covered.  Work with our Chile vacation tour professionals to craft the perfect trip at the best price.

This 5-, 6- or 7-day lodge-based trip in the center of Torres del Paine National Park offers over 40 unique explorations to choose from, including Base Torres and Grey Glacier. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Paine Massif and Salto Chico waterfall from home base.

The trails amongst the famous Torres del Paine craggy mountains are among the world's classic trekking routes. By day, explore nature in its raw form while winding through these exceptional mountains. By night, enjoy the cozy luxury of EcoCamp's unique dome accommodations, or camping.

From the Explora Patagonia National Park Lodge in Chile's stunning Chacabuco Valley, choose from 30+ daily guided activities to experience the park as few do. Hike, bike, kayak and travel overland to discover valleys, forests, wildlife, fossils, glaciers, lakes and rivers. Start and end each day at your 13-room lodge with included meals, open bar and an attentive staff.

Chile Tours

Chile tours with AdventureSmith Explorations get folks off the beaten path to actively explore up close and in style. Travel with expert naturalist guides to tour Chile as few visitors do, staying in remote wilderness lodges and boutique hotels away from tourist crowds. Our award-winning small group tours and private custom tours ensure a seamless experience to diverse landscapes such as Patagonia, Atacama, Santiago and Rapa Nui.

Chile is vast, spanning nearly 2,700 miles of South America’s Pacific coastline, yet only 110 miles wide, making overland tours a challenge to plan and execute. Our itineraries focus on off-the-beaten-path regions that highlight the country’s diverse nature and culture. Hike and trek in Patagonia. Explore the otherworldly landscape of Atacama and the towering moai on Easter Island. Our experts will help you combine shorter regional tours into a comprehensive Chile vacation tour. Contact our experts for personalized custom tour planning.

Planning Chile Tours with AdventureSmith

AdventureSmith’s hand-picked Chile vacation tours offer a large selection of daily activities to explore the breathtaking nature and intriguing wildlife found within the region. Enjoy Atacama desert adventures, Easter Island explorations and rugged experiences in Torres Del Paine. Why tour Chile with us?

Personalized

Work exclusively with one Adventure Specialist to research, book & prepare for your trip.

Choose your adventure daily, with options like hiking, biking, horseback riding & diving.

We’ve personally tested our Chile tours and apply that knowledge to your booking process.

Our local connections & deals on Chile tours mean you save on a top-notch experience.

Five-Star Chile Patagonia Tours

Chile’s spellbinding Patagonia region is a popular destination for nature lovers and active outdoor enthusiasts. Options abound to get outside on hikes, explore by bike and boat, or track the local pumas. While the landscape offers challenges, AdventureSmith’s Chile Patagonia tours won’t sacrifice your comfort. Tour Chile and Patagonia right from the front door of your cozy geodesic dome or luxury wilderness lodge, with expert naturalist guides, five-star service, relaxing spaces and mouthwatering meals to complement the experience. While some of our longer Chile Patagonia tours may use refugios for a few nights while out on a trek, expect to bookend your experience with private accommodations. Return from your Patagonia adventure revitalized and with a new sense of wonder about the world.

Our Style of Chile Vacation Tours

Our Chile tours range from the Earth’s driest desert in northern Chile, to the peaks and glaciers of the Patagonia region in the south, and the mysterious and culture-rich Easter Island off shore. Learn which of our Chile tours is best for you by talking with one of our experts. Browse our Chile vacation tours and lodges on this page or design your own custom Chile tour with the help of our staff. We can also link any of our Chile vacation tours with other nearby adventures, such as an Antarctica cruise .

“Enjoy Atacama desert, Easter Island and rugged Torres Del Paine.”

Temperature & Rainfall

The Best Timing For Chile Tours

While some of our Chile tours operate year-round, the best weather is during the warmer months of the southern hemisphere, from October to April. In particular for Chile Patagonia tours, the weather can change in an instant (and the winds can be strong), so we recommend arriving prepared for the elements. Note that the climate data referenced above is for Santiago, Chile, which is a jumping off point for all of our Chile tours.

Want to Learn More About Chile’s Climate?

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

Chile Lodges

Our Chile tours are based from remote, upscale lodges where expert naturalist guides lead active explorations of nature, wildlife and culture. Strategically located and surrounded by wilderness, comfortable lodges provide unparalleled access to your surroundings. Lodges are rooted in the region’s environment and employ cutting edge sustainability practices. After a full day of active exploration return to the lodge for a glass of Chilean wine, an informative lecture and a delicious meal. Rest well encompassed by solitude and awake refreshed for another day of active exploration. Chile tours visiting towns and cities utilize boutique hotels and historic inns that capture the essence of Chile’s culture. Expect upscale accommodations and excellent service in an authentic Chilean atmosphere. We use only the finest lodges and hotels striving to ensure our travelers experience the best of Chile accommodations.

Explora Atacama is a luxury lodge located in the oasis of San Pedro de Atacama 8,202 feet above sea level in Chile’s Atacama Desert. Exquisite dining, enchanting grounds and over 40 unique explorations are how you will spend your time embracing the area.

EcoCamp is situated in the very heart of Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia, Chile, and provides the region’s first fully sustainable accommodation, complete with green technology and individual geodesic domes.

Explora Rapa Nui is a luxury lodge located on Easter Island. Exquisite dining, privileged grounds and over 30 unique explorations are how you will spend your time experiencing this magnificent area.

The Explora Torres del Paine Lodge is located at the center of the Torres del Paine National Park, the heart of Patagonia, Chile. On the shores of Lake Pehoe, it has breathtaking views of the Paine ridge and the granite towers.

Chile Tour & Travel Guides

Since our Chile tours explore everything from the driest desert on Earth to the jagged Andean mountains of Torres Del Paine and the underwater wonders of Easter Island, there are many ways to research your ideal way to tour Chile. Read expert reviews to discover what it’s like to trek on Chile Patagonia tours, summit an 18,000-foot mountain in the desert, or take in the mysterious moai stone statues on Easter Island before returning to relax at Explora Rapa Nui Lodge —one of AdventureSmith founder Todd Smith’s picks for the best wilderness lodges worldwide. Let our experts be your guide to adventure travel in Chile and beyond.

Reach new heights with AdventureSmith founder Todd Smith as he explores the Atacama Desert and climbs the 18,000-foot Cerro Toco.

See what it's like to hike to the Towers Base in Patagonia's Torres del Paine National Park, and why EcoCamp lodge is the best basecamp for this famous trek.

AdventureSmith Specialist Andrew Browning reviews his Explora Torres del Paine Lodge stay within the park. Read about his trip, and tips on booking your stay.

Travel to remote Rapa Nui, Easter Island, with AdventureSmith's founder who reviews his trip at the luxury basecamp Explora Rapa Nui.

A Conde Nast Traveler top specialist details his opinion of the world’s best wilderness lodges, from Rapa Nui to Alaska, and why he finds them so special.

What Travelers Say About Their Chile Tours

Explora at Rapa Nui was perfect. Fabulous food. Great service. The hikes were gorgeous and led well. It is really the best way to do this trip as the hikes are not available to others.

I loved the EcoCamp in Patagonia--every evening, you can decide with the help of staff and fellow travelers what you'll be doing the following day, depending on how you're feeling. Every choice of activity level is top-quality. The EcoCamp represents a good balance between sustainable adventure travel and comfort, and the staff succeeds in quickly building a sense of community.

Smooth trip, great guides. Patagonia is obviously one of the most beautiful places on earth. Torres del Paine is almost terrifying in its beauty. The (reasonably) close contact with wildlife/birds is extraordinary.

Patagonia/Torres del Paine was incredible. I was able to enjoy the trip of a lifetime.

Everything was great. Hikes, food, staff, culture.

Accommodations Review

Explora at Rapa Nui was perfect.

Meals Review

Fabulous food. Great service.

Crew & Guides Review

Informed, interested, and knowledgeable. The hikes were gorgeous and led well.

Transportation Review

Does't really apply. We arranged our own flights

Traveler Advice

Make sure you know about the form to enter Easter Island. And have it filled out with on phone or print before you depart. Also, if you can afford Explora, it is really the best way to do this trip as the hikes are not available to others. The town was fine but not that interesting, except for Sunday mass which was such a great thing to do.

Featured in this Traveler Review

• Explora Rapa Nui
• Explora Rapa Nui Lodge, Chile

Note that this review also includes comments on the traveler’s post-trip Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake cruise with AdventureSmith Explorations. 

I loved the EcoCamp in Patagonia--every evening, you can decide with the help of staff and fellow travelers what you'll be doing the following day, depending on how you're feeling.  Every choice of activity level is top-quality. The EcoCamp represents a good balance between sustainable adventure travel and comfort, and the staff succeeds in quickly building a sense of community among visitors and between visitors and its staff--even after just 3 days at camp, I was already saying goodbye to people who already felt like good friends (including, in particular, fabulous guides Franco, Sebastien and Pablo). 

Unbelievably top-quality service and amazing food, both at the EcoCamp and on board Quark's Sea Adventurer. In fact, all of us guests spontaneously cheered the chef during one of our EcoCamp dinners, and the service on board the Sea Adventurer was on par with any Michelin-starred restaurant in New York City (where I live). Both venues did an excellent job managing my dietary restrictions (pescatarian).

Franco, Sebastien, and Pablo were simply extraordinary, with a passion for Patagonia and a genuine desire to make every guest's experience extra-special. Franco even dived after my backpack as it was rolling off a cliff; Sebastien made time to get to know each guest over dinner and drinks deep into the evenings; Pablo has an encyclopedic knowledge of local flora and fauna that turned every day trek into an unforgettable experience.  

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

Andrew was great at providing advanced reading materials, packing lists, and answering all manner of pre-trip questions quickly and accurately. He had great advice and I consider Andrew to be primarily responsible for ensuring that this 2-in-1 trip combo worked so beautifully.

Bring twice as much camera film as you think you'll need. Prepare to be stunned by your fabulous surroundings.

• Patagonia Wildlife Safari
• EcoCamp Patagonia
• Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake
• Quark Expeditions
• Andrew Browning

Smooth trip, great guides. Patagonia is obviously one of the most beautiful places on earth. The boat trip to across the glacier lake and up to the glaciers (the second day of our safari) is exciting, reasonably safe, and breathtakingly beautiful. Torres del Paine is almost terrifying in its beauty. The (reasonably) close contact with wildlife/birds is extraordinary.

The Hotel Orly is excellent. EcoCamp is a bit rough (even in the "suites") but that is to be expected. This would not pull down our rating from excellent.

Plainly, the chef at EcoCamp takes great pride in his or her work.

Our guides in Santiago were extraordinary. The first day of our safari was beyond our physical abilities, but our guide had assured us that it would not be. Your materials had made the difficulty fairly clear, and we had decided to take the "easy" routes, but there was fairly strong pressure from our guides (and others in our group) to do this "hard" trek on our first day, when we really had no reference point to know how hard "hard" would be. We (now) understand that "trekking" is serious exercise, but that was not explained to us (I think everyone just assumed that we knew what "trekking" means; but for folks over 50, that is a relatively new concept of which many of us are not really aware). Otherwise, the rest of the safari was absolutely fabulous! (We went "easy" after that first day!) Claudio was an outstanding guide on our third day.

Clothing requirements for EcoCamp could have been clearer due to the stark changes from cold to hot (and vice versa), even within a few hours. Transportation was very smooth.

This was a trip of a lifetime (particularly because we tacked it onto the a cruise around Cape Horn, which is equally wonderful). But we are being candid about the problems mentioned above simply to offer what we hope is constructive criticism to help you improve a truly wonderful adventure even more for folks like us.

Itinerary Review

Amazing trip. I normally do a lot of research and planning but since Arielle helped to identify amazing options with a lot of structure baked into the itinerary, I was able to just tell my buddy we could show up and figure things out for the day. It reduced a lot of the typical planning burden.

Explora guides were knowledgeable and engaging. They did a better job to speak a combination of English and Spanish than guides on other parts of our trip.

I really appreciate AdventureSmith/Arielle with all the suggestions and support.

• Explora Torres del Paine
• Explora Torres del Paine Lodge
• Arielle Lightcap

Our Experts Are Your Fastest Way to a Chile Tour

Need help narrowing down all the Chile tour options? Our experts are just a phone call or email away to assist. Contact us to receive a personalized-to-you recommendation on the best Chile tours for your travel style, budget and timing needs. Still want to browse and do your own research? Filter through all our Chile trips .

Contact Us - Chile Tours

Travel is best planned one-on-one, and we’re here to help you with your specific needs.

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13 Best Santiago Chile Day Tours: The Complete Guide [2024]

Are you looking for the best Santiago Chile day tours? You’ve come to the right place, as they’re all listed here!

How do I know these are the best Santiago Chile day tours? I recently spent several months exploring South America, including a week in Santiago and its surrounding regions. Plus, I’ve vetted all the tours in this article, as well as the reviews, so you can be sure they’re all highly rated.

👍 BEST SANTIAGO CHILE DAY TOUR

Don’t have time to read the whole article? Book this Cajón del Maipo, Hot Springs, Waterfall & Chilean BBQ Tour , for the complete 5-star Santiago experience!

Santiago is the vibrant capital of Chile and the country’s largest city. Nestled amidst some of Chile’s most beautiful and fascinating landscapes, and with a rich history and culture, there’s so much to see and do in Santiago.

Luckily, there are plenty of fantastic day tours to help you explore the city and surrounding regions so you can get the most out of your stay. But with so much variety, it can be difficult to choose which tours to do.

To help you out, I’ve narrowed down the top Santiago Chile day tours. In this list you will not only find the most highly rated tours, but also the most interesting and comprehensive day tours, to ensure you experience as much as possible during your time in Santiago.

With everything from sightseeing, wine tasting, and hot springs to hiking, wildlife and adventure, there’s something for every type of traveler on this list! So read on for the 13 best Santiago Chile day tours, to ensure you have an unforgettable trip.

Quick Guide: Santiago Day Tours

# 1 top pick ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐.

Cajón del Maipo, Hot Springs and Chilean BBQ Tour ✔️ Complete Cajón del Maipo sightseeing experience ✔️ Traditional Chilean feast, drinks & campfire included ✔️ Relax in volcanic-heated thermal hot springs Check Rates & Availability

# 2 PICK ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Maipo Valley Wine Tour with 4 Vineyards & Tastings ✔️ Wine & Pisco tastings included ✔️ Varied day with full farm and winery tour ✔️ Wine glass and mini bottle to take home Check Rates & Availability

# 3 PICK ⭐⭐⭐

Full-Day Tour of Valparaiso and Viña del Mar ✔️ Experience 2 of Chile’s most iconic coastal towns ✔️ Wine tasting stop in the Casablanca Valley ✔️ Guided tour of Valparaiso’s colourful streets & hills Check Rates & Availability

Top 13 Santiago Chile Day Tours

1. cajón del maipo, hot springs & chilean bbq experience.

Discover the best of the Santiago region with this Cajón del Maipo, hot springs and Chilean BBQ tour.

⭐ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 10 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability

Why choose this tour? It’s one of the most comprehensive and unique Santiago Chile day tours . With something for everyone, the tour has several highlights including the Maipo Canyon, thermal hot springs, a 4×4 adventure, spectacular waterfalls, a traditional Chilean BBQ feast & much more!

✅ Small-group day trip discovering the Cajón del Maipo ✅ Includes admission to the ‘Termas Valle de Colina’ ✅ Relax in hot springs heated by the nearby volcano ✅ Stop at the Chocolate House ✅ Traditional Chilean Barbecue dinner ✅ Includes wine, beer, juice & bottled water ✅ Panoramic sunset views of the volcano and Andes Mountains ✅ Stargaze by the campfire ✅ Hotel pickup and drop-off included

What makes this Cajón del Maipo tour the best is that it includes so many memorable and unique activities in one day. Not only will you get to experience the majestic Maipo Canyon, but you will also see spectacular waterfalls, volcanos and mountains, visit key attractions like the Chocolate House, and enjoy stargazing around a campfire.

Plus the tour includes a stop at the Termas Valle de Colina natural hot springs, where you will get to relax in 7 natural pools heated by the nearby volcano, ranging in temperatures from 130ºF to 86ºF (55ºC to 30ºC).

And, to top it all off, indulge in a traditional Chilean barbecue feast including appetizers, grilled vegetables, sausages, choripanes and beef (or vegan/vegetarian options). And all of this is accompanied by plenty of Chilean wine, beer and juice!

Incredible Experience! A must do!

Note – this tour operates from 3 pm to 1 am in the summer season (November to April) and from 6 am to 5 pm in the winter season (April to October).

➡️ BOOK: Cajón del Maipo, Hot Springs and Chilean BBQ Experience

2. Maipo Valley Wine Tour with 4 Vineyards from Santiago

To spend the day exploring Chile’s best red wine region book this Maipo Valley Wine Tour with 4 Vineyards from Santiago .

⭐ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 9 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability

Why choose this tour? It’s one of the only tours which gives you a full Maipo Valley experience. You will have the opportunity to explore a family-run farm and three of the valley’s best wineries . Plus, you will get to try more than 10 different wines, and have a pisco tasting!

✅ Visit 4 traditional family-run vineyards ✅ Taste premium and signature wines and Pisco ✅ Tour a farm, vineyards, production warehouses & wine cellars ✅ Interact with alpacas and other animals ✅ Receive a wine glass and small bottle of wine to take home ✅ Experience different agricultural productions ✅ Includes hotel pickup & drop-off ✅ Wheelchair & stroller accessible

This Maipo Valley tour is one of the top wine experiences in Chile, and it’s the most comprehensive winery tour available from Santiago. You will get to experience both wine production and agriculture in the Maipo Valley, and taste some of Chile’s best wines. Plus, this tour has hundreds of 5-star reviews!

Best wine tour I’ve ever been on !

The Maipo Valley is where the first vines were planted in Chile in the 1540s. And to this day, it remains the heart of Chile’s wine making industry, which you will get to experience on this tour. With both large and more intimate wineries on the itinerary, you will get a true sense of Chilean wine culture, and have the opportunity to taste a wide variety of wines.

➡️ BOOK: Maipo Valley Wine Tour with 4 vineyards from Santiago

3. Full-Day Tour of Valparaiso Port and Viña del Mar

For a day of colour, sightseeing and discovering local culture, book this Tour of Valparaiso Port and Viña del Mar from Santiago .

⭐ Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 10 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability

Why choose this tour? This is the most popular tour to discover the historic Valparaiso port and beach town of Viña del Mar, with thousands of 5-star reviews! Plus you will get to experience the Chilean countryside on the way, including a wine tasting in the Casablanca Valley .

✅ Full-day tour of two of Chile’s most iconic coastal cities ✅ Travel through Chile’s spectacular countryside ✅ Wine tasting stop in the picturesque Casablanca Valley ✅ Optional seaside lunch in Viña del Mar ✅ Explore the beach and boardwalk ✅ Guided tour of Valparaiso’s colourful hills, alleyways, and street art ✅ Includes Funicular Ride in Valparaiso ✅ Learn about the port’s fascinating history ✅ Includes luxury coach hotel pickup and drop-off

Valparaiso and Viña del Mar are two must-visit coastal towns from Santiago. This full-day tour will give you the opportunity to explore both, in a small-group setting, with an experienced guide who can teach you about the history and culture of the region.

Plus, you will get to experience the picturesque Chilean countryside on the way, by stopping at Chile’s top white wine region for a tasting!

A must do in our opinion!

If you’re only visiting Santiago for a few days, this is the ideal day trip out of the city. You will get to see some of the most beautiful regions surrounding Santiago and fit multiple must-do experiences into one day!

➡️ BOOK: Tour of Valparaiso Port and Viña del Mar from Santiago

4. Authentic Andes Adventure: Private Horse Riding Tour

For an authentic Chilean adventure book this Private Horse Riding Tour in the Andes mountains!

⭐ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 4 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability

Why choose this tour? Discover the Andes on horseback and experience Gaucho culture with this guided tour and picnic, suitable for first-time riders!

✅ Private morning or afternoon tour ✅ Authentic Chilean Experience in the Andes ✅ Discover unbeatable views in Chile’s rural countryside ✅ No experience necessary: suitable for first-time riders! ✅ Learn riding safety, techniques and how to ride on mountain trails ✅ Picnic with cheese & wine included ✅ Learn about Gaucho culture and native flora and fauna ✅ Hotel pickup and drop-off available

The best part about this tour is that you get to experience an authentic Chilean adventure in the foothills of the Andes. Your guide will not only take you on a tour of the beautiful rural Chilean countryside, but will also teach you about horse riding, the local geography and landscapes, and traditional Gaucho culture.

Book this tour NOW!!!

This is a fantastic tour if you want to include an adventurous activity in your Santiago itinerary. And, as this is a half-day tour with both morning and afternoon times available, it can easily fit into your schedule.

➡️ BOOK: Authentic Andes Adventure: Private Horse Riding Tour

5. Andes Mountains Full-Day Hiking Tour

For a true Andes Mountain adventure, take this full-day small-group guided hiking tour through the Cajón del Maipo.

⭐ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 12 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability

Why choose this tour? This is the best way to experience the rugged landscapes and pristine beauty of the Andes mountains from Santiago!

✅ Guided small-group tour ✅ Hike through the Maipo Canyon towards San Jose Valcano ✅ Breathtaking mountain scenery, glaciers and rivers ✅ Enjoy a scenic picnic in a secluded spot ✅ Includes gourmet sandwich lunch, snack and wine ✅ Relax at a pristine waterfall ✅ Moderately difficult hike at a leisurely pace ✅ Round trip transportation included

It turns out you don’t have to visit Patagonia to get an epic Chilean hiking adventure! Just a short drive from Santiago you will find the breathtaking Maipo Canyon, full of jagged peaks and pristine glaciers, waterfalls and rivers. You might even spot the majestic condor flying high above!

This guided tour includes everything you need to get the most out of your Andes trekking experience. With round trip transportation, a gourmet picnic lunch and professional guides to teach you about the history and geography of the landscapes along the way, this will be a particularly memorable hiking experience.

The best views are worth the effort

Keep in mind that this is a moderate hike so you do require a moderate level of fitness. It’s also recommended that you wear hiking shoes or boots, and bring a backpack with sunscreen, a sun hat and a warm jacket.

➡️ BOOK: Full-Day Guided Andes Mountains Hiking Tour

6. Casablanca Valley Wine Tour and Tasting

For a true 5-star experience , ideal for white wine lovers, book this Casablanca Valley Wine Tour & Tasting Including 3 to 4 Vineyards .

Why choose this tour? This is the most highly rated tour of Chile’s best white wine region , and includes 3-4 vineyards with tastings!

✅ Viator Experience Badge of Excellence ✅ Full-day wine tasting tour in the Casablanca Valley ✅ Taste the best white wines in Chile ✅ Enjoy stunning scenery and panoramic views of the valley ✅ Sample award-winning and organic wines ✅ Guided tasting sessions and learn about winemaking ✅ Lunch Stop at a Fantastic Local Restaurant ✅ Hotel pickup and drop-off included

If you’re a white wine lover, then this tour is the one for you! The Casablanca Valley is Chile’s top white wine region. In particular, it’s best known for its Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.

But it’s not just the excellent white wines that you can enjoy here. The valley also produces some excellent Pinot Noir. And, on this tour, you will get to sample a variety of white, red and sparkling wines, including organic and award-winning wines.

Wonderful tour!

This whole tour is really enjoyable from start to end. With knowledgeable guides, comprehensive tastings and stunning scenery throughout the entire day. Plus, the variety and quality of the wines and knowledgeable guides make it a really special experience.

➡️ BOOK: Casablanca Valley Wine Tasting Including 3 to 4 Vineyards

7. Full-Day of Outdoor Activities & Wildlife Tour

For adventurous travellers, outdoor enthusiasts and animal lovers, book this full-day tour of exciting outdoor activities and wildlife spotting !

⭐ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 9-13 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability

Why choose this tour? This is the most adventurous tour on the list, offering exhilarating experiences like sand boarding and paragliding , as well as the chance to see Humboldt penguins and sea lions in their natural habitat!

✅ Comprehensive small-group tour Led by an experienced guide ✅ Boat ride to see sea lions and Humboldt Penguins in the wild ✅ Sandboard down the Concon Dunes ✅ Visit Valparaiso and Viña Del Mar ✅ Includes a traditional Chilean picnic lunch and locally-produced wine ✅ See ancient volcanic rocks and native flora and fauna ✅ All equipment provided, including sandboards and binoculars ✅ Option to go paragliding ✅ Includes hotel pickup and drop-off

This is the ideal tour for active travellers who are looking for a full day of adventure! Heading out of Santiago, you will get to visit some of Chile’s most iconic coastal towns and pristine coastline. Plus, enjoy non-stop activities including a boat ride, wildlife spotting, sand boarding, a picnic, coastal walks & more!

Best tour of the trip

The only reason this tour isn’t higher up the list is because it’s not the cheapest of Santiago Chile day tours. However, given all the memorable experiences it packs into one exciting day out, most would agree it’s well worth the money!

➡️ BOOK: Full-Day of Outdoor Activities and Wildlife Tour

8. Private Full-Day Santiago City Tour

Discover the history, culture and highlights of Santiago on this highly rated private full-day Santiago City Tour !

⭐ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 7 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability

Why choose this tour? With the full attention of a knowledgeable guide, you will get to intimately explore Chile’s historic capital city, discovering famous sites, beautiful architecture and hidden gems.

✅ Private tour with a knowledgeable and entertaining local guide ✅ Get inside knowledge and navigate like a local ✅ Tour can be customized to suit your interests ✅ Visit all of Santiago’s key attractions and sites ✅ Learn about the architecture and significance of key buildings ✅ Visit the city’s largest market ✅ Includes hotel pickup and drop-off

No list of Santiago Chile day tours would be complete without a tour of the city itself!

This day tour is ideal for anyone wanting to spend the day discovering and learning about the city of Santiago and Chile’s history. Plus, as this is a private tour you will have the full attention of your guide, to make sure all your questions are answered and so you can get the most out of the day.

Book now before someone else does! A++++

This tour is the best way to experience as much of Santiago as possible in one day. And the key advantage of taking a private tour is that it can be personalized to suit you, so you will get to see everything that’s of interest to you in the city.

➡️ BOOK: Private Full-Day Santiago City Tour

9. Cajón del Maipo Sightseeing and Spa Tour with Lunch

Enjoy a full day of sightseeing, food and relaxation on this Cajón del Maipo, pool and spa tour with lunch from Santiago.

⭐ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 8 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability

Why choose this tour? It offers a great mix of sightseeing and relaxation, with the opportunity to visit one of the most important attractions near Santiago and relax at a luxury spa all in the same day!

✅ Explore the breathtaking Cajón del Maipo ✅ Learn about the area’s mining history and significance in colonial time ✅ Visit the region’s first self-sustaining hotel, El Morado Lodge & Spa ✅ Includes lunch and drinks at the lodge’s restaurant ✅ Relax and rejuvenate in the spa, pools and sauna ✅ Visit the Chocolate House in San Alfonso ✅ Indulge in delicious ice cream and chocolates ✅ Key photo stops in El Morado ✅ Includes round-trip transportation

This is the ideal tour for anyone looking to relax and unwind on their Chilean vacation, without missing the key tourist attractions. This sightseeing and spa tour offers the perfect balance of both, so you can experience the best of the Andes.

Serendipity!

This tour will also ensure you’re well fed, as it includes a delicious lunch with a view at the lodge. And you will get to stop at the Casa Chocolate Tienda Boutique , for some tasty sweet treats and ice cream!

➡️ BOOK: Cajón del Maipo, Pool and Spa Tour with Lunch

10. Private Andean Tour from Santiago

If you’re looking for a more intimate Andes experience, book this private Andean half-day tour from Santiago , for groups of up to 5 travellers.

⭐ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 5 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability

Why choose this tour? This private tour packs a lot into just half a day, with stops at several prominent ski resorts near Santiago and a cheese and wine picnic at Condor’s lookout!

✅ Enjoy a private mountain tour for up to 5 travellers ✅ Visit multiple ski resorts around Santiago for diverse mountain views ✅ Marvel at the grandeur of the Andes from different angles ✅ Indulge in a wine and cheese tasting overlooking Condor’s Lookout ✅ Morning tour, ideal for travellers short on time ✅ Snowshoes, poles and binoculars provided if needed ✅ Includes hotel pickup and drop-off

This is the ideal tour for those who are looking to explore as much of the Andes as possible in a short space of time. Plus, you will have the undivided attention of your own private guide. They will be able to answer all your questions, tailor the experience around your interests and ensure you get the best views.

Perfect Day in The Andes

After a big morning of exploring the Andes, the highlight of this tour is the cheese and wine lunch overlooking the Mirador de Cóndores. You might even spot the majestic Condor flying high above as you enjoy a relaxing lunch!

➡️ BOOK: Private Andean Half-Day Tour from Santiago

11. Observatory Stargazing Tour from Santiago

If you’re interested in astronomy and want to experience the Andes at night, book this observatory stargazing tour from Santiago !

⭐ Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 5 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability

Why choose this tour? For a unique Santiago experience, catch the last of the daylight and learn about astronomy as you admire the stars in the Andean skies!

✅ Stargazing above the Andes Mountains ✅ Witness the transition of the Andean sky from daylight to nighttime ✅ Hosted at a private observatory with an experienced astronomer ✅ Includes wine, cheese and snacks ✅ One of the best places for stargazing in the world ✅ Use specialized telescopes to spot stars, planets & more ✅ Learn fascinating insights about astronomy ✅ Early-evening tour, ideal for those short on time ✅ Includes hotel pickup and drop-off

The skies around Santiago are some of the clearest in the world – you can even see stars in broad daylight here! Therefore it’s one of the best places for astronomy.

This tour will ensure you get to experience the best of the skies above the Andes Mountains, with an evening of stargazing led by an experienced astronomer.

Beyond our expectations!

On top of the astronomy experience, the tour also includes wine, cheese and appetizers, for a complete and memorable evening.

➡️ BOOK: Observatory Stargazing Tour from Santiago

12. Full Day Tour to Siete Tazas from Santiago

For a day out in one of the most beautiful national parks near Santiago, book this full day tour to Siete Tazas .

⭐ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕒 Tour Length: 10-11 Hours | 💰 Check Rates & Availability

Why choose this tour? This tour is the perfect blend of pristine nature, interesting culture, adventure and relaxation, all in one day!

✅ Visit Radal Siete Tazas National Park ✅ Experience seven cascading waterfalls ✅ Swim in the crystal-clear pools beneath the majestic waterfalls ✅ Relaxing picnic lunch amidst stunning natural scenery ✅ Includes all park entrance fees ✅ Drive through picturesque Chilean countryside ✅ Stop at a local village to sample traditional Chilean food ✅ Includes hotel pickup and drop-off

Radal Siete Tazas National Park is located around 260 kilometres (162 miles) south of Santiago. Named after its 7 waterfalls, the park’s pristine beauty and crystal-clear water is a true Chilean oasis.

On this day tour to Siete Tazas , not only will you get to witness the park’s immense beauty, but you will also get to experience Chilean culture, history and cuisine, with a stop at a local village.

I can’t even put it into words how amazing this tour was

However, the highlight of this trip is getting to swim in the clear blue waters of the park’s stunning waterfalls, where you will feel like you’re on a paradise island!

➡️ BOOK: Full Day Tour to Siete Tazas from Santiago

13. Portillo and Laguna del Inca Day Tour

Visit South America’s pioneer ski centre and see the pristine Inca lagoon on this Portillo and Laguna del Inca day tour .

Why choose this tour? Experience the region’s dramatic landscapes, enjoy panoramic views and visit Chile’s most famous ski area!

✅ Full-day trip in the Andes Mountains ✅ Visit South America’s first and most famous ski resort ✅ Panoramic views of the Inca lagoon and snow-capped mountains ✅ Stop at the Salto del Soldado viewpoint ✅ Learn about the history and legends of the region ✅ Free time to explore the resort and surrounding landscape ✅ Includes return transportation

Portillo is one of the most famous places in Chile. It’s South America’s original ski resort and is known for it’s spectacular views, striking turquoise Lagoon and the hairpin turns on Highway 60 leading up to it!

And even if you’re not a skier, Portillo is still worth visiting for the spectacular views, excellent service and fascinating attractions along the way.

Well worth a full day in the Andes

This tour will ensure you make the most of your day in the Andes with stops at key sites along the way and excellent photo opportunities. Plus, in Portillo you’ll have time to explore on your own and enjoy some delicious local food at the on-mountain restaurant.

➡️ BOOK: Portillo and Laguna del Inca Day Tour

Santiago Chile FAQs

How many days is enough in santiago chile.

5 to 7 days is the ideal amount of time to spend in Santiago, to properly explore the city and the surrounding regions. However, if you’re short on time, 2 to 3 days is more than enough to get a taste of what Santiago has to offer, and to take a day trip outside the city !

How should you spend one day in Santiago?

If you only have one day in Santiago, I would recommend taking a guided city tour , to ensure you see and experience as much as possible in the time you have!

Is a day trip to Valparaiso worth it?

Yes, a day trip to Valparaiso is absolutely worth it! The colourful port town has a fascinating history, culture and street art scene to explore. And, while there you can also visit the neighbouring town of Viña del Mar for some time at the beach.

What is the closest wine region to visit from Santiago?

The Maipo Valley is the closest wine region to Santiago, at about a 1-1.5 hour drive away. The other nearby wine regions are up to a 2.5 hour drive from the city, but can easily be visited on a day tour .

READ MORE: The 11 Best Wine Tours from Santiago Chile

Is Santiago Chile safe?

Santiago is generally considered a safe city. However, as of 2023, according to travel advisories petty crime like theft, pick-pocketing, scams and muggings have been on the rise. Therefore, you should always exercise caution, book experiences , transport and accommodation through trusted providers, and be careful with your belongings.

What is the best time of year to visit Santiago?

Santiago is a great year-round destination. The summers are hot and dry (September to February) and this is the best time to visit Chile’s wine country, go hiking and visit the beach. Whereas in winter (June to August) you can go skiing and explore the city in more comfortable temperatures.

Is Chile an expensive place to visit?

Chile is one of the most expensive country’s in South America. However, compared to many other places around the world, it’s actually very affordable. Especially if you’re visiting from a country with a stronger currency, you can expect your money to go further here.

➡️ Browse All Santiago Chile Day Tours

Final Thoughts – Best Santiago Day Tours

Taking a day tour is one of the best ways to experience Santiago and the surrounding regions. And luckily there are plenty of fantastic Santiago Chile day tours to choose from!

Whether you’re looking to get off the beaten path on a unique outdoor adventure, sample local wines in Chile’s top wine regions, or visit pristine landscapes and learn about the local culture, there will be a tour to suit your interests in Santiago. And hopefully this list has helped you narrow down the options so you can make the most of your trip.

Still unsure which tour is right for you? View all Santiago Chile day tours .

11 Best Santiago Chile Wine Tours: Everything You Need To Know

Is Santiago Chile Worth Visiting? 13 Reasons To Visit

Is Patagonia Worth Visiting? 15 Best Reasons to Visit

Hikes in Chile – 13 Amazing Hikes & Treks For Your Bucket List

O Circuit & W Trek Reservations – How To Book Torres Del Paine

Chanelle is the founder and author of Chasing Chanelle, a blog that aims to help travellers and expats navigate new destinations and take on more outdoor adventures. She has lived in Canada, Europe, the UK, Australia, and South America, which has given her a local’s perspective of the places she writes about. She is also an avid hiker, camper, runner, paddler, skier, and snowboarder, and is passionate about sharing her hobbies with others through her blog.

ilovechile Tours Private Tours from Santiago Day Trips in Chile

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About ilovechile Tours

ilovechile Tours is a boutique travel agency that offers a variety of full day tours from Santiago since 2016 . We have personalized day trips to Valparaiso, Viña del Mar, Santiago, Andes Mountains, Cajon del Maipo, Wineries, and more.

Our Private Tours are informative, personalized, and fun. We focus mainly on Chilean culture, history, food, and wine . You can learn all about Chile during our tours and have an unforgettable day.

We offer more than a day tour. We offer a friendly day full of new experiences, where you have the opportunity to meet local people, learn about local customs, taste Chilean flavors, and become a Chilean for a day!

Traveling with ilovechile Tours you will be  contributing the community:

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"ILoveChile Tours are the best! We loved that Sebastian was both authentic and incredibly enthusiastic about his country. He customised the tour to suit our needs and was very helpful and thoughtful throughout the day. He had a great deal of interesting knowledge which was conveyed in an east to understand way. We would highly recommend ILoveChile Tours. They are responsive, punctual and very friendly."

Carmel Cavaye, Australia - December 2022

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"A fantastic and very well organized day full of interesting facts and stories about Chile. Super friendly attitude from Sebestian and Francisca, who made me feel very comfortable and relaxed while atmosphere was fun. The trip was entirely adjusted to my needs and flexible. Highly recommended!"

Natalia Beales, Switzerland - June 2019

"Spent 2 days with Sebastian on private tours of Valparaiso and the Andes. Both days were amazing experiences. The communication before the tours were prompt and clear. The vans were clean/comfortable with safe drivers. Seb was enthusiastic and full of information. The itineraries included a lot without feeling rushed and the local restaurants he picked for our lunches had delicious food. He was also flexible when we decide to stay longer in some areas, took pics when asked and also brought us to the airport at the end of our tour. I would strongly recommend ILoveChile tours!"

Jeanne Zuber, USA - January 2023

"This tour experience exceeded my expectations. It was like two friends were showing me around their country. Francisca and Sebastian thank you so much! I highly recommended"

Edith Millan, Canada - September 2017

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Travel Guide Chile

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Chile defies many visitors’ expectations of an Andean country. It is developed, relatively affluent and non-corrupt. Travel to Chile and you’ll discover one of the safest and most relaxing countries in South America. Its buses are comfortable and run on time; its people polite and respectful. Above all, though, visitors travel to Chile for its beautiful landscapes. The population is concentrated to the major cities, which leaves vast tracts of scarcely touched wilderness to explore.

Chile travel facts

Where to go in chile, best time to go to chile, how to get to chile, how to get around chile, best places to visit in chile, itineraries for chile, travel visa requirements for chile, food and drink in chile, festivals in chile, sports in chile, top activities in chile, national parks and reserves, shopping in chile, chile’s wildlife, what to see.

A country of geographical extremes, Chile’s diversity is reflected both in its people and its cuisine, which encompasses the tropical fruit of the arid north as well as king crab from the southern fjords. Above all, visitors head to Chile for its remote and dizzyingly beautiful landscapes. Our travel guide to Chile will provide you with everything you need to make the most of it.

• Motto: ‘ Por la razón o la fuerza ’ meaning, ‘By right or by might’.
• Population: 17.2 million people live in Chile, consisting of a fairly homogenous mestizo population with a few indigenous groups ranging from Mapuche in the Lake District, Yámana and Kawéskar (around 2,800) in Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego.
• Economy: One of the most developed countries in Latin America, Chile has the steadiest growth in the region and the lowest level of corruption in Latin America.
• Law: Chile only legalised divorce in 2004.
• Politics: Although notorious for the Pinochet’s infamous military dictatorship during the 1970s and 1980s, Chile otherwise has a long history of parliamentary democracy.

Travel to Chile’s capital Santiago and you’ll find monuments, museums and restaurants. Whilst on the popular Central Coast, the port of Valparaíso provides a contrasting bohemian vibe. Chile’s largest beach resort Viña del Mar couldn’t be more different, with high-rises, casino and seafront restaurants.

Continue north and you’ll find a succession of idyllic beaches spread out along the dazzling fringe of the Norte Chico, which comprises semi-arid landscapes and hardy vegetation.

South of Santiago, the lush Central Valley, with its swathes of orchards and vineyards, invites you to find Chile’s best vintages, including Carmenère, the country’s signature grape. Further south, the much-visited Lake District is a postcard-perfect landscape spanning conical volcanoes to dense araucaria forests.

Just off the southern edge of the Lake District, the Chiloé archipelago is famous for its rickety houses on stilts, distinctive wooden churches and rich local mythology.

Back on the mainland, between the Carretera Austral and Campo de Hielo Sur (Southern Ice-Field), lies Patagonia , a land of bleak windswept plains bordered by the magnificent granite spires of the Torres del Paine massif, a magnet for hikers and climbers.

Across the Magellan Strait, Tierra del Fuego sits shivering at the bottom of the world, a remote place of harsh, desolate beauty, while Chile’s southernmost town, Puerto Williams, is the gateway to one of the continent’s toughest treks, the Dientes de Navarino.

No Chile travel guide would be complete without mentioning the country’s two Pacific possessions: Easter Island – one of the most remote places on earth – and the little-visited Isla Robinson Crusoe, part of the Juan Fernández Archipelago, with its dramatic volcanic peaks and a wealth of endemic wildlife.

Discover more places in Chile

• Patagonia Travel Guide
• Santiago and around Travel Guide
• The Central Valley Travel Guide
• The Lake District Travel Guide
• Tierra del Fuego Travel Guide
• Valparaíso Travel Guide

Given the variety of its climate and geography, you can travel to Chile at any time of year. The best time to visit Chile depends on what area of the country most interests you.

Santiago, northern Chile and the Atacama Desert are year-round destinations. Temperatures here tend to be hottest between January and March.

If you have your heart set on skiing around Santiago or further south, the best time is from July through to September. The season for adventure sports in the Lake District and Northern Patagonia tends to be November through to March.

The best time to visit South Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego is in warmer months of November to March. From June to September many places close and the area is difficult to navigate due to the snow.

The most straightforward way to travel to Chile is via Santiago’s modern international airport, though some travel to Chile by land from neighbouring countries, and a handful arrive by sea.

Airfares depend on the season. You’ll generally pay the most if you travel to Chile in the December-February and June-August periods, the southern and northern hemisphere’s summer holiday months, respectively. Fares drop slightly during the ‘shoulder’ months – March and November – and you’ll normally get the best prices during the low seasons: April, May, September and October.

For those travelling to Chile’s Easter Island, your flight from Santiago is likely to be cheaper if bought in conjunction with a LATAM Airlines international flight.

Getting around Chile is easy, comfortable and relatively good value. When you are there, you will most likely choose to travel by bus (or micros) due to the comfort and cost. Chile’s long-distance buses offer an excellent service thanks to the enormous amount of legroom, frequent departures and flexible itineraries.

Internal flights in Chile are useful for covering long distances in a hurry, though fares can be quite high. The country has a good road network, so hiring a car and driving is a quick and stress-free way of getting around.

Colectivos, shared taxis operating along a set route with fixed fares, are normally only slightly more expensive than local buses. These are good options when travelling in a couple or small group. Most colectivos look like regular taxis and have their route or final destination marked on a roof-board.

Taxis are normally black with a yellow roof. Foreigners are often overcharged, so check the meter has been turned on before you start a journey and get an estimate for the fare, if possible in Spanish. Fares should be shown on the windscreen.

• Atacama desert

Visit erupting geysers, crinkly salt plains and emerald lakes in the morning, and deep, mystical valleys by sunset in the driest desert on earth.

Travel advice for Chile

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Chile

• Sports and Outdoor activities in Chile
• Eating and drinking in Chile
• Getting around Chile: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips Chile for planning and on the go
• Elqui Valley

Take advantage of some of the clearest skies in Chile and look at the universe through some of the world's most powerful telescopes.

Chile's rapidly evolving capital city boasts a vibrant eating out and nightlife scene, several fascinating museums, numerous cultural pursuits and a selection of excellent places to stay.

Valparaíso has a tangle of colourful houses, cobbled streets and bohemian hang-outs spread across a series of undulating hills overlooking the Pacific.

Pablo Neruda's house has been turned into a beguiling museum with an evocative collection of the Nobel Prize-winning poet's kitsch and often bizarre trinkets and knick-knacks.

Visit the numerous traditional bodegas around San Fernando and Santa Cruz, and sample some of Chile's finest vintages.

• Parque Nacional Torres del Paine

Hike the trails of Chile's most popular – and most spectacular – national park or climb the granite towers that give the park its name.

• Easter Island

Gazing down into the giant crater of the extinct Rano Kau volcano and visiting the magical moai at Ahu Tongariki and Rano Raraku are once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

• Isla Robinson Crusoe

Isla Robinson Crusoe has the end-of-the-world castaway feel that inspired Daniel Defoe's famous book.

Sample one of Chile's most memorable dishes, admire the palafitos (traditional houses on stilts) or hike through temperate rainforest on Chile's mist and legend shrouded island.

• Patagonian islands

Lose yourself in this veritable maze of fjords and tiny islets by taking to the water in a sea kayak, or take a boat trip in search of the elusive blue whale.

• Tierra del Fuego

Explore the deserted roads running through steppe and dotted with guanacos and rheas, or fish in the pristine lakes and rivers of Chile's remotest region.

• Isla Navarino

Chile's southernmost inhabited territory (barring Antarctica), where the warmth of the locals contrasts with the harshness of the landscape.

Fly over some of the world's most treacherous waters or brave a sailing trip to Chile's southernmost group of islands – the biggest nautical graveyard in the Americas.

• Parque Nacional La Campana

Follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin by hiking up to the 1880m summit of Cerro La Campana, where you'll be rewarded by some of the best views in the country.

As part of our Chile travel guide we’ve drawn up some fantastic itineraries for travelling through Chile, taking you from the icy fjords and snow-tipped mountains of the south to the fertile wine-growing valleys in the centre and parched desert and highland lagoons of the north. In short, places to visit Chile abound.

Travel ideas for Chile, created by local experts

Luxurious Chile - Atacama Desert & Easter Island

Explore two of Chile's extraordinary highlights: the Atacama desert with its salt flats and lagoons and Easter Island. The island is famous for its stone monoliths and source of mystery for many. Your stay will be complemented in the best hotels, making this trip even more special.

Chile Explored: From Santiago to Torres del Paine

The vast expanse of Patagonia is home to extreme landscapes, from jagged mountains, stark glaciers, clear blue lakes, and grassy fields. You will find them all in Torres del Paine, a huge contrast to the start of the trip in the historical, bustling city of Santiago.

Self-Drive Santiago, Wines & Lakes

Discover the beauty of Chile independently in your own rental car. Start in Santiago before heading to Pucon, Huilo Huilo and Puerto Varas. As you'll be in your own car, you can plan each day at your liking - hikes, relaxing or cultural exploration? Decide spontaneously.

From Chile to Argentina, across the Andean Lakes

Travel from Chile to Argentina across the stunning Andean Lakes, also known as the Lakes District. Beginning in Santiago, you will travel to Puerto Varas, in Chile, and then across the lakes to Bariloche, Argentina, taking in the stunning mountain scenery, before ending your trip in Buenos Aires.

Andean Triangle - Chile, Bolivia and Argentina

Start your South American adventure in Santiago de Chile before exploring the wonders of the Atacama desert. A short hop across the border and you'll find yourself in the middle of the Bolivian salt flat. Afterwards, you'll continue to Argentina with Salta and Buenos Aires.

Wild Patagonia

Argentina has lots to offer its visitors: a glacier the size of a city, sizzling tango, fashionable barrios, artisan towns, ranches with horses and gauchos and wild untamed natural beauty. From Buenos Aires to Patagonia, you’ll get to see it all in this adventure-laden vacation.

Most foreign visitors who travel to Chile do not need a visa. Visitors of all nationalities are issued with a ninety-day tourist entry card ( Tarjeta de Turismo ) on arrival, which can be extended once for an additional ninety days.

If you lose your tourist card, ask for a duplicate immediately, either from the Fronteras department of the Policía Internacional, General Borgoño 1052, Santiago or from the Extranjero’s department of the Intendencia in any provincial capital. There’s no charge.

As with all countries, make sure you check on the country’s government website about your visa requirements, before you travel.

Travel to Chile and you’ll find a vast array of quality raw produce, though many restaurants lack imagination, offering similar limited menus. That’s not to say, however, that you can’t eat well here, and the fish and seafood, in particular, are superb.

On the whole, eating out in Chile tends to be good value. In local restaurants you can expect to pay around CH$4,000–7,000 for a main course. The best trick is to do as the Chileans do and make lunch your main meal of the day; many restaurants offer a fixed-price menú del día, always much better value than the à la carte options.

Most of Chile’s festivals are held to mark religious occasions or to honour saints or the Virgin Mary. What’s fascinating about them is the strong influence of pre-Spanish, pre-Christian rites, particularly in the Aymara communities of the far north and the Mapuche of the south. Added to this is the influence of colourful folk traditions rooted in the Spanish expeditions of exploration and conquest, colonization and evangelism, slavery and revolution.

In the altiplano of the far north, Aymara herdsmen celebrate Catholic holy days and the feasts of ancient cults along with ritual dancing and the offering of sacrificial llamas.

In central Chile, you’ll witness the influence of colonial traditions. In the days of the conquest, an important ingredient of any fiesta was the verbal sparring between itinerant bards called payadores , who would compose and then try to resolve each other’s impromptu rhyming riddles. The custom is kept alive at many fiestas in the Central Valley, where young poets spontaneously improvise lolismos and locuciones , forms of jocular verse that are quite unintelligible to an outsider. These rural fiestas always culminate in an energetic display of cueca dancing, washed down with plenty of wine and chicha – reminiscent of the entertainment organized by indulgent hacienda-owners for their peons.

In the south, the solemn Mapuche festivals are closely linked to mythology, magic and faith healing, agricultural rituals, and supplications to gods and spirits. Group dances (purrún) are performed with gentle movements; participants either move round in a circle or advance and retreat in lines. Most ceremonies are accompanied by mounted horn players whose four-metre-long bamboo instruments, trutrucas , require enormous lung power to produce a note. Other types of traditional wind instruments include a small pipe ( lolkiñ ), flute ( pinkulwe ), cow’s horn ( kullkull ) and whistle ( pifilka ). Of all Mapuche musical instruments, the most important is the sacred drum ( kultrún ), which is only used by faith healers ( machis ).

A list of festivals in Chile

Spaniards brought the first wooden image of San Sebastián to Chile in the seventeenth century. After a Mapuche raid on Chillán, the image was buried in a nearby field, and no one was able to raise it. The saint’s feast day has become an important Mapuche festival, especially in Lonquimay, where it’s celebrated with horse racing, feasting and drinking.

Celebrated throughout Chile since 1780, when a group of miners and muleteers discovered a stone image of the Virgin and Child while sheltering from an inexplicable thunderstorm in the Atacama. Typical festivities include religious processions and traditional dances.

This glitzy and wildly popular five-day festival is held in Viña del Mar’s open-air amphitheatre, featuring performers from all over Latin America and broadcast to most Spanish-speaking countries.

Among the nationwide Easter celebrations, look out for Santiago’s solemn procession of penitents dressed in black habits, carrying crosses through the streets, and La Ligua’s parade of mounted huasos followed by a giant penguin.

In many parts of central Chile, huasos parade through the streets on their horses, often accompanied by a priest sitting on a float covered in white lilies.

Throughout the altiplano, villages celebrate the cult of the Holy Cross, inspired in the seventeenth century by the Spaniards’ obsession with crosses, which they carried everywhere, erected on hillsides and even carved in the air with their fingers. The festivities have strong pre-Christian elements, often including the sacrifice of a llama.

A huge parade through the streets of Santiago bearing the Cristo de Mayo – a sixteenth-century carving of Christ whose crown of thorns slipped to its neck during an earthquake, and which is said to have shed tears of blood when attempts were made to put the crown back in place.

An important feast night, celebrated by families up and down the country with a giant stew, known as the Estofado de San Juan. In Chiloé, an integral part of the feast are roasted potato balls called tropones, which burn the fingers and make people “dance the tropón” as they jig up and down, juggling them from hand to hand.

Along the length of Chile’s coast, fishermen decorate their boats and take the image of their patron saint out to sea – often at night with candles and flares burning – to pray for good weather and large catches.

The largest religious festival in Chile, held in La Tirana in the Far North, and attended by over 80,000 pilgrims and hundreds of costumed dancers (see Santuario de la Tirana).

Military parades throughout Chile honour the patron saint of the armed forces; the largest are in Maipú, on the southern outskirts of Santiago, where San Martín and Bernardo O’Higgins defeated Spanish Royalists in 1818.

Thousands of Chilotes flock to the archipelago’s tiny island of Caguach to worship at a two-metre-high figure of Christ, donated by the Jesuits in the eighteenth century.

Chile’s Independence Day is celebrated throughout the country with street parties, music and dancing.

Each year, numerous dance groups and more than 10,000 pilgrims from Chile, Peru, Bolivia and Argentina make their way along a tortuous cliff path to visit a rock carving of the Virgin in the Azapa valley, near Arica. There are many smaller festivals in other parts of Chile, too.

Traditionally, this is the day when Chileans tend their family graves. In the north, where Aymara customs have become entwined with Christian ones, crosses are often removed from graves and left on the former bed of the deceased overnight. Candles are kept burning in the room, and a feast is served for family members, past and present.

A second vigil to the dead is held in cemeteries, with offerings of food and wine sprinkled on the graves. In some far north villages, there’s a tradition of reading a liturgy, always in Latin.

Celebrated in many parts of Chile, the festival of the Immaculate Conception is at its liveliest in San Pedro de Atacama, where it’s accompanied by traditional Aymara music and dancing.

More than 100,000 pilgrims from all over the north come to Andacollo, in Norte Chico, to worship its Virgin and watch the famous masked dancers (see Andacollo and around).

The Chileans are not a particularly exuberant people, but passions are roused by several national enthusiasms – chiefly football and rodeo, which at their best are performed with electrifying skill and theatricality.

El fútbol reigns supreme as Chile’s favourite sport. Introduced by British immigrants in the early 1800s, football in Chile can trace its history back to the playing fields of the Mackay School, one of the first English schools in Valparaíso, and its heritage is reflected in the names of the first clubs: Santiago Wanderers, Everton, Badminton, Morning Star and Green Cross.

Horse-racing

There are two very different types of horse racing in Chile: conventional track racing, known as hípica , and the much rougher and wilder carreras a la chilena . Hípica is a sport for rich Santiaguinos, who don their tweeds and posh frocks to go and watch it at the capital’s Club Hípico and Hipódromo Chile.

Carreras a la chilena are held anywhere in the country where two horses can be found to race against each other. Apart from the organized events that take place at village fiestas, these races are normally a result of one huaso betting another that his horse is faster.

Rodeos evolved from the early colonial days when the cattle on the large estancias had to be rounded up and branded or slaughtered by huasos. The feats of horsemanship required to do so soon took on a competitive element, which eventually found an expression in the form of rodeos. Even though ranching has long declined in Chile, organized rodeos remain wildly popular, with many free competitions taking place in local stadiums (known as medialunas) throughout the season, which runs from September to April. Taking in a rodeo not only allows you to watch the most dazzling equestrian skills inside the arena, but also to see the huasos (riders) decked out in all their traditional gear: ponchos, silver spurs and all. Added to this, the atmosphere is invariably loads of fun, with lots of whooping families and excited kids, and plenty of food and drink afterwards.

The Chilean huaso

“Of the many cowboys of the Americas, none remains as shrouded in mystery and contradiction as Chile’s huaso,” says Richard Slatta in Cowboys of the Americas. Certainly the huaso holds a special place in Chile’s perception of its national identity. But the definition of the huaso is somewhat confused and subject to differing interpretations. The one you’re most likely to come across is that of the “gentleman rider”, the middle-class horseman who, while not a part of the landed elite, is a good few social rungs up from the landless labourer. This is the huaso you’ll see in cueca performances and at rodeos.

Chile offers an enormous range of outdoor activities, including volcano-climbing, skiing, surfing, white-water rafting, fly-fishing and horseriding.

Rafting and kayaking

Chile’s many frothy rivers and streams afford incomparable rafting opportunities. Indeed, the country’s top destinations, the mighty Río Bío Bío and the Río Futaleufú, entice visitors from around the globe. Rafting trips generally range in length from one to eight days and, in the case of the Bío Bío, sometimes include the option of climbing 3160m Volcán Callaquén. In addition to these challenging rivers, gentler alternatives exist on the Río Maipo close to Santiago, the Río Trancura near Pucón, and the Río Petrohue near Puerto Varas.

Chile’s white-water rapids also offer excellent kayaking, though this is less developed as an organized activity.

For the most part, Chile is a very empty country with vast tracts of wilderness offering potential for fantastic hiking. Chileans, moreover, are often reluctant to stray far from their parked cars when they visit the countryside, so you’ll find that most trails without vehicle access are blissfully quiet. However, the absence of a national enthusiasm for hiking also means that Chile isn’t particularly geared up to the hiking scene. There are relatively few long-distance trails (given the total area) and a shortage of decent trekking maps.

That said, what is on offer is superb, and ranks among the country’s most rewarding attractions.

The north of Chile, with its harsh climate and landscape, isn’t really suitable for hiking, and most walkers head for the lush native forests of Chile’s south, peppered with waterfalls, lakes, hot springs and volcanoes. The best trails are nearly always inside national parks or reserves, where the guardaparques (rangers) are a good source of advice on finding and following the paths. They should always be informed if you plan to do an overnight hike (so that if you don’t come back, they’ll know where to search for you).

The majority of trails are for half-day or day hikes, though some parks offer a few long-distance hikes, sometimes linking up with trails in adjoining parks. The level of path maintenance and signing varies greatly from one park to another, and many of the more remote trails are indistinct and difficult to follow.

Hardly any parks allow wild camping, while the few others that now allow it have a series of rustic camping areas that you’re required to stick to – check with the guardaparque. If you do camp (the best way to experience the Chilean wilderness) note that forest and bush fires are a very real hazard. Take great care when making a campfire (having checked beforehand that they’re allowed). Also, never chop or break down vegetation for fuel, as most of Chile’s native flora is endangered.

By far the most popular destination for hiking is Torres del Paine in the far south, which offers magnificent scenery but fairly crowded trails, especially in January and February. Many quieter, less well-known alternatives are scattered between Santiago and Tierra del Fuego, ranging from narrow paths in the towering, snow-streaked central Andes to hikes up to glaciers off the Carretera Austral.

If you go hiking, it’s essential to be well prepared – always carry plenty of water, wear a hat and sun block for protection against the sun and carry extra layers of warm clothing to guard against the sharp drop in temperature after sundown. Even on day hikes, take enough supplies to provide for the eventuality of getting lost, and always carry a map and compass (brújula), preferably one bought in the southern hemisphere or adjusted for southern latitudes. Also, make a conscious effort to help preserve Chile’s environment – where there’s no toilet, bury human waste at least 20cm under the ground and 30m from the nearest river or lake; take away or burn all your rubbish; and use specially designed eco-friendly detergents for use in lakes and streams.

The massive Andean cordillera offers a wide range of climbing possibilities. In the far north of Chile, you can trek up several volcanoes over 6000m, including Volcán Parinacota (6330m), Volcán Llullaillaco (6739m) and Volcán Ojos del Salado (6950m). Although ropes and crampons aren’t always needed, these ascents are suitable only for experienced climbers, and need a fair amount of independent planning, with only a few companies offering guided excursions.

In the central Andes, exciting climbs include Volcán Marmolejo (6100m) and Volcán Tupungato (6750m), while in the south, climbers head for Volcán Villarrica (2840m) and Volcán Osorno (2652m), both of which you can tackle even with little mountaineering experience.

Fly-fishing

Chile has an international, and well-deserved, reputation as one of the finest fly-fishing destinations in the world. Its pristine waters teem with rainbow, brown and brook trout, and silver and Atlantic salmon. These fish are not native, but were introduced for sport in the late nineteenth century; since then, the wild population has flourished and multiplied, and is also supplemented by generous numbers of escapees from local fish farms. The fishing season varies slightly from region to region, but in general runs from November to May.

Chile offers the finest and most challenging skiing in South America. Many of the country’s top slopes and resorts lie within very easy reach of Santiago, including El Colorado, La Parva, Valle Nevado and world-renowned Portillo. A bit further south, but no less impressive, stands the popular Termas de Chillán.

Horse-trekking

Exploring Chile’s dramatic landscapes on horseback is a memorable experience. The best possibilities are around Santiago, and in the Central Valley, where riding has been a way of life for centuries. In addition to the spectacular scenery, you can also expect to see condors and other birds of prey. Trips are usually guided by local arrieros, who herd cattle up to high pastures in springtime and know the mountain paths intimately. You normally spend about five or six hours in the saddle each day; a lingering asado (barbecue), cooked over an open fire and accompanied by plenty of Chilean wine, will be part of the pleasure. At night, you sleep in tents transported by mules, and you’ll be treated to the most breathtaking display of stars.

The only disadvantage of riding treks in the central Andes is that, due to the terrain, you’re unlikely to get beyond a walk, and cantering is usually out of the question. If you want a faster pace, opt for the treks offered by some companies in Patagonia, where rolling grasslands provide plenty of opportunity for gallops – though the weather can often put a dampener on your trip.

Mountain biking

For most of Chile’s length, there are extremely good and little-used dirt roads perfect for cycling – although the numerous potholes mean it’s only worth attempting them on a mountain bike. For a serious trip, you should bring your own bike or buy one in Santiago – renting a bike of the quality required can be difficult to arrange. An alternative is to go on an organized biking excursion, where all equipment, including tents, will be provided. Note that during the summer, cycling in Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego is made almost impossible by incessant and ferociously strong winds.

Chile’s beaches are pulling in an increasing number of surfers, who come to ride the year-round breaks that pound the Pacific shore. By unanimous consent, the best breaks – mainly long left-handers – are concentrated around Pichilemu, near Rancagua, which is the site of the annual National Surfing Championships. Further north, the warmer seas around Iquique and Arica are also increasingly popular.

Some 18% of Chile’s mainland territory is protected by the state under the extensive Sistema Nacional de Areas Silvestres Protegidas (National Protected Wildlife Areas System), which is made up of 30 national parks, 38 national reserves and 11 natural monuments. These inevitably include the country’s most outstanding scenic attractions, so the main aim is always to protect and manage native fauna and flora. Given Chile’s great biodiversity, park objectives are as varied as protecting flamingo populations and monitoring glaciers.

National parks ( parques nacionales ) are generally large areas of unspoilt wilderness, usually featuring fragile endemic ecosystems. They include the most touristy and beautiful of the protected areas, and often offer walking trails and sometimes camping areas too. National reserves ( reservas nacionales ) are areas of ecological importance that have suffered some degree of natural degradation; there are fewer regulations to protect these areas, and “sustainable” commercial exploitation (such as mineral extraction) is allowed to take place. Natural monuments ( monumentos naturales ) tend to be important or endangered geological formations, or small areas of biological, anthropological or archeological significance.

In addition to these three main categories, there are a few nature sanctuaries ( sanctuarios de la naturaleza ) and protected areas ( areas de protección ), usually earmarked for their scientific or scenic interest.

Before heading out of the capital, head to Conaf’s head office in Santiago, where you can pick up brochures, books and basic maps. No permit is needed to visit any of Chile’s national parks; you simply turn up and pay your entrance fee (usually CH$1000–4000), though some parks are free.

Alternatively, Conaf’s Annual Pass (CH$10,000) allows unlimited access to all of Chile’s national parks and reserves – except Torres del Paine and Easter Island – for a year; it can be purchased from Conaf offices.

Ease of access differs wildly from one park to the next. Some parks have paved highways running through them, while others are served by dirt tracks that are only passable for a few months of the year. Getting to them often involves renting a vehicle or going on an organized trip, as around two-thirds of Chile’s national parks can’t be reached by public transport.

A few parks now have camping areas. These are often rustic sites with basic facilities, run by Conaf, which charge around CH$5000–10,000 per tent. In other parks, particularly in the south, Conaf gives licences to concessionaires, who operate campsites and cabañas, which tend to be very expensive. Some of the more remote national parks, especially in the north, have small refugios attached to the ranger stations – these are usually rustic, stone-built huts (from CH$5000 per person) containing around eight to ten bunk beds, hot showers and gas stoves. Some of them are in stunning locations, overlooking the Salar de Surire, for example, or with views across Lago Chungará to Volcán Parinacota. Sadly, however, they are increasingly unreliable.

While Chile’s handicrafts (artesanía) are nowhere near as diverse or colourful as in Peru or Bolivia, you can still find a range of beautiful souvenirs, which are usually sold in ferias artesanales (craft markets) on or near the central squares of the main towns. As for day-to-day essentials, you’ll be able to locate just about everything you need, from sun block to contact lens solution, in the main towns across the country.

Artesanía and other souvenirs

The finest and arguably most beautiful goods you can buy in Chile are the items – mainly jewellery – made of lapis lazuli, the deep-blue semi-precious stone found only in Chile and Afghanistan. The best place to buy these is in Bellavista, Santiago: note that the deeper the colour of the stone, the better its quality. Though certainly less expensive than lapis exports sold abroad, they’re still pricey.

Most artesanía is considerably less expensive. In the Norte Grande, the most common articles are alpaca sweaters, gloves and scarves, which you’ll find in altiplano villages like Parinacota, or in Arica and Iquique. The quality is usually fairly low, but they’re inexpensive and very attractive all the same. In the Norte Chico, you can pick up some beautiful leather goods, particularly in the crafts markets of La Serena. You might also be tempted to buy a bottle of pisco there, so that you can recreate that pisco sour experience back home – though you’re probably better off getting it at a supermarket in Santiago before you leave, to save yourself carting it about. The Central Valley, as the agricultural heartland of Chile, is famous for its huaso gear, and you’ll find brightly coloured ponchos and stiff straw hats in the numerous working huaso shops. The highlight in the Lake District is the traditional Mapuche silver jewellery, while the far south is a good place to buy chunky, colourful knitwear.

A range of these goods can also be bought in the major crafts markets in Santiago, notably Los Dominicos market. Also worth checking out are Santiago’s little flea markets.

Hard haggling is neither commonly practised nor expected in Chile, though a bit of bargaining is in order at many markets. It’s also worth trying to bargain down the price of hotel rooms, especially outside the peak months of January and February.

Top image © Erlantz P.R/Shutterstock

Chile’s diverse animal kingdom inhabits a landscape of extremes. The country’s formidable natural barriers – the immense Pacific, lofty Andes and desolate Atacama – have resulted in an exceptional degree of endemism , with a third of Chile’s mammals, such as the shy pudú (pygmy deer) not found anywhere else in the world.

Four species of camelid alone are found in Chile’s barren altiplano, namely the shaggy, domesticated llama and alpaca in the north, and their wild cousins – the Patagonia-dwelling guanaco and the delicate vicuña with its highly prized fur, restricted to the high altitudes. Chile’s biggest cat is the elusive puma , another Patagonia resident, while smaller wildcats, from the colo-colo to the guiña , also stalk these grasslands. Endemic rodents, such as the mountain vizcacha , are found in the northern highlands, while several species of fox can be spotted in the desert, altiplano and coastal forest.

A country seemingly made for birdwatchers, Chile is home to a curious mix of the small and beautiful, such as hummingbirds (including the firecrown, endemic to the Juan Fernández islands), while at the other end of the scale is the mighty Andean condor , soaring over the mountains. High in the Andes near the Bolivian border, the Chilean and James’s flamingo gather at remote saltwater lakes, while the long-legged ñandú propels itself over the Patagonian steppe. Equally impressive sea birds include the Humboldt , Magellanic and king penguins , and Chile’s coastal waters host some spectacular mammals, such as the blue whale and several species of dolphins .

Few countries, moreover, can match Chile for the sheer diversity of scenery and range of climatic zones – from the driest desert in the world to immense ice fields and glaciers. Spread between these extremes is a kaleidoscope of panoramas, taking in sun-baked scrubland, lush vineyards and orchards, virgin temperate rainforest, dramatic fjords and endless Patagonian steppes . Towering over it all is the long, jagged spine of the Andes, punctuated by colossal peaks and smouldering volcanoes . Given this geographical spread and dearth of population, it’s not unusual to stumble on steaming hot springs, gleaming white salt flats or emerald lakes, and have them all to yourself.

Lovers of the great outdoors will likewise be seduced by the almost endless possibilities for outdoor activities , whether it be jeep rides, birdwatching, skiing, horse trekking, hiking, volcano climbing, sea kayaking, whitewater rafting or fly-fishing – all offered by a large number of local outfitters, with the possibility of designing unique itineraries to suit your tastes. If you have less active plans in mind, you can sit back and take in Chile’s scenery from multi-day boat cruises through the southern fjords or jaw-dropping topography from the comfort of a plane or hot air balloon. Wilderness aside, Chile’s wine-growing regions are second to none and connoisseurs can sample a wide range of tipples, including Carmenère, Chile’s signature grape, while cultural exploration may take you from Santiago’s Salvador Allende memorial to to the Mapuche reducciones of the Lake District, the gold rush remains in Tierra del Fuego, the Chinchorro mummies in Arica’s best museum or the remains of nitrate mines around Iquique. However you do it, Chile will not disappoint you, and you can experience its diversity in whatever style you choose – this is not a developing country, and you don’t have to slum it while you’re here. There are plenty of modest, inexpensive accommodation options and camping facilities up and down the country, while those on a more generous budget will find increasing numbers of luxurious, beautifully designed boutique lodges in spectacular locations, particularly in the south.

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updated 03.07.2024

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Enjoy family time with these activities for children in Temuco

There is nothing better than a good family outlook, where adults and children enjoy themselves. And it would be even better if you didn't need to travel hundreds of kilometers or leave the city to find them, don't you think? In the capital of Araucanía they a...

Four Reasons Why Chile Needs to be Your Next Vacation Destination

As home to Patagonia, a world-famous and iconic tourist attraction, Chile may seem like a well- established travel destination. In fact, that’s far from the case, according to Jenny Mikkelson, a Chile specialist at Travel Beyond, a luxury tour operator ...

Five Interesting Facts About Chile You Never Know

Most people know that the capital of Chile is Santiago and could place Chile on a map. When asked to think of Chile, most people probably think of the Andes and the Chilean rodeos. Here are some unexpected and interesting facts about Chile that you probably di...

The five unmissable places of the Colchagua Valley

A different experience is that offered by Cava Colchagua: here guests sleep in two-story barrels of more than 50 years, which in the past fermented 45 thousand liters of wine. It is located on the outskirts of Santa Cruz, so the disconnection here is total: to...

Getting to know the Wineries of Chile

Thanks to the fact that the Chilean capital is located in the basin of the Maipo River, within the urban perimeter and in the surrounding valleys there are the ideal climatic and soil conditions to cultivate the best knowledge. Maipo, Casablanca and San Antoni...

Everything you need to know before visiting the Bahai temple

Since its inauguration in 2016 more than one million visitors have visited the Bahai temple in Chile. In fact, according to official figures, some 50,000 people arrive there monthly, especially on weekends. ...

Three Reasons Why Chile Needs to be Your Next Vacation Destination

The most cool neighborhoods in the world

They were, many of them, industrial zones fallen into oblivion or historical districts threatened by the collapse. At the moment they are colorful and effervescent zones, creative epicentres, shelter of independent stores and restaurants that mark tendency. Fr...

Regional Guides

Antofagasta

Region of Antofagasta occupies a latitudinal range that goes from 20º56 'to 26º05' south latitude, and longitudinally, from 67º00 'west longitude to the Pacific Ocean. Its surface is 126,049.1 km². This region borders on the west with the Pacific Ocean: 

Located about 700 kilometers south of Santiago de Chile, La Araucanía has fluid connectivity by land and air. Also, it marks the point where the intense green of southern Chile is born and the territory is watched by the imposing presence of volcanoes that draw the profile of the Andes Mountains, covering forests, lakes and rivers.

Arica y Parinacota

Millenary culture, colors, music and beautiful beaches The north gateway to our beautiful country. It welcomes you with the driest desert in the world, mixing beaches with a daring high plateau. 

Aysen del General Carlos Ibanez del Campo

The Aysén Region of General Carlos Ibáñez del Campo, is located in the Chilean Patagonia, between 43º38 'in the north and 49º16' in the south, and from 71 ° 06 'west to the territorial waters of the Pacific Ocean,

The capital of the Eighth Region (Región del Bio Bio) and second largest city of Chile, also called theCapital of Southern Chile, is attracting more and more visitors every year. That´s the result of great efforts as, together with the modern infrastructure,

Enjoy the magic of the desert climate of the north zone and the proximity of the fertile lands of the central zone, where grapes are grown to produce good wines and piscos, all around La Serena and Coquimbo. If you come in spring and summer, 

Easter Island

Indigenous plants and animals are few. At the time of European arrival the toromiro tree, endemic to the island, was the only wild tree and the Carolina wolfberry the only wild shrub, the vegetation being predominantly herbaceous. The toromiro tree was overexploited by the island wood carvers, and the last local specimen died in the 1950s.

The Region of Los Lagos invites you to discover beautiful landscapes, with beautiful destinations full of magic and charm. Myths and legends are daily bread, and the gastronomic traditions will make your mouth water.

Young and beautiful region, it is characterized by its volcanoes, rivers, lakes, agricultural landscapes and evergreen forests. Located in the area of ​​lakes and volcanoes, Los Ríos enchants all 

Magallanes and Antartica Chilena

Owner of an important climatic variation, in a same day it can deliver rain, sun, cold and gusts of wind of up to 100 km / hr. which delivers different and beautiful landscapes throughout the year

The region has the provinces of Talca, Curico, Linares and Cauquenes and its regional capital is Talca. Region of agricultural vocation, noted for its beet and rice crops, as well as the fruit industry. Of this, the vitivinicultural activity is one of the most relevant, since it contains 40% of the area planted with vineyards and vineyards in the country. The birthplace of Pablo Neruda also stands out for its silvicultural activity, with exploitation of forests and pulp industry.

Metropolitan of Santiago

Region escorted by the impressive mountain range of the Andes and immersed between great hills that form the great valley of Santiago, the Metropolitan Region gathers a wide tourist offer and keeps corners that wait to be explored.  

Visit the Valley of Las Trancas all year long and enjoy the hot springs and adventure sports such as Canopy, Ski and Snowboard

O’Higgins, in full Libertador General Bernardo O’Higgins, región, central Chile, bordered by Argentina to the east and facing the Pacific Ocean on the west. Since 1974 it has comprised the provinces of Cachapoal, 

San Pedro de Atacama

San Pedro de Atacama, an oasis in the middle of the desert, is a perfect place to listen to the sound of silence. From its land underground waters sprout that together with the lagoons inserted in the altiplano give you breathtaking landscapes that you 

The Tarapacá Region falls between 18 ° 56 'and 21 ° 36' of South Latitude and from 68 ° 24 'of West Longitude to the Pacific Ocean. Its general limits are; to the North the XV Region of Arica and Parinacota; This with Bolivia; South, the II Region of 

With an area of ​​2,780 km² and a population of 876,022 inhabitants, the Province of Valparaíso is the most populated in the Region and with the largest number of Communes. Created on October 27, 1842, with only 3 departments (Valparaíso, Casablanca and Quillota)

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Santiago Private Tours & Local Tour Guides

Discover things to do and plan a trip to santiago, chile with a local guide.

View all 10 reviews

Popular Santiago Tour Guides

I fell in love with the country and… one of her habitants. I am passionate about the country’s culture, history and gorgeous landscapes. This passion is what my colleagues and I want to share with you, visitors from all over the world, when we show you around. And when we plan an itinerary for you, we do it just as if it was for myself or for my friends. This is our commitment to you: that my team and I will guide you with the same enthusiast than if we were good friends.                                                                                                                                  

Alvaro nicolas G.

I am a 36-year-old architect, who knows a lot about the city. history, architecture, geography, are the basis of a good experience, where food, stories and good conversation are essential.                                                                                                                                  .

I was born, grew up and I´ve been living here for along all of my life, except some time when I travel around. I am very knowledgeable in my area. I know my own country and city´s history and culture. Every Tour I give is Very Personal, Private, Leisurely and 100% Flexible. I have a lot of experience with different kind of Tourists from different part of the world like seniors, professionals, students, handicap, middle age and teenagers people for city, adventure, trekking, nocturnal , wineries tours, business and search purposes, etc. I definitely try to surpass tourists expectations giving you the “Best Chilean Hospitality” If I do this for a living, It’s because I am a Professional Tour Guide, whose my primary concern is to provide a unique travel experience to every single Customer making them, through my person, taste a bit of my country´s culture, folklore, customs, food, living style, sceneries and much more. I state you that I am totally responsible for your happiness and safety meanwhile you are in my care. My role is critical in your satisfaction tour and business needs. I am passionate and well known in every tour and information I provide, but, I am not perfect. if I don´t know the answer about some of your questions, I will be forthright about saying so and I will make an effort to get the answer before the end of the tour. But, if the answer is hard to get it... For sure, you will receive it in a few days later by e-mail. Please note that I also count with a Very Specialized Tour Guide Team. Each one has same and/or similar characteristics described above. Some of them will attend you if I had reserved myself by somebody else before or in case of illness, emergency or accident or any family problems. After reading these very sincere words I hope we let´s rock and roll together in this wonderful land by Santiago, Valparaiso, Vineyards, Coast, Country sides, Up at the Andes Mountains Range, Patagonia, Puerto Montt, etc., etc., etc. It will be a Real Pleasure to have you, family and friends as a “VERY SPECIAL CLIENT “ As somebody said…. “When in Chile…. Do as Chilenos Do” My Very Best Regards Hector M                                                                                                                                  

Many years working with tourism with the people from all over the world gave me a lot of experience. I'm specialized in private tours where you will be more comfortable with our services. My clients get happy with our services. Also we give them the support they need all the time. I love what I do!!! Chile is a country with a large extense territory. Lakes, Mountains, River coming down directly from the mountains, wonderful vineyards, historic places and heritage, beaches, Ski center and much more you can find in this beautiful country. When you think about travel to Chile , please join me. Let me know first and you will see the quality of our services.                                                                                                                                  

New santiago tour guides.

I was born in Santiago and I have lived most of my life in this city :) I love history, food and wine. If you want to personalize your tour, please let me know. I will do my best to offer you the best experience based on your needs :)                                                                                                                                  

Hello to you all! First of all, thank you so much for stopping by and your interest in exploring the longest country in the world, Chile! Let me tell you that I was born and raised in Concepción, one of the rainiest cities in Southern Chile. I hold a B. A. Degree in Communications and Journalism, besides a Higher Education Diploma in Tourism Management and Sustainability. I decided to became a tour guide because I truly believe that the act of human communication is essential for making a better and more understanding world, which is why I put all of my passion into letting others know about Chile's history and the immense social and cultural richness of the southernmost country on the globe. During my 20's and after graduating from college, I spent time traveling and working overseas, particularly in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, but after seven years, I knew it was time to come home and I felt the duty to show the wonders of Chile to visitors from overseas. I sincerely take pride in my job as a tour guide because I play the role of ambassador to foreign travelers. I have an infectious enthusiasm and passion for literature, the performing arts, photography and nature. Regarding my background, I have over 10 years of experience working in the hospitality and tourism industry in both Chile and abroad. I have guided over 20, 000 people so far, not only in Chile, but also in the rest of South America and I haven't lost a single one!                                                                                                                                  

Hello, I'm Vicho :) mountain guide and founder of an adventure tourism agency, specialized in trekking and mountaineering. I am a lover of nature and adventures, I like to go out to explore the mountains and parks of Chile day and night. I know many places for all tastes, mountains, forests, rivers and lakes. This is what I am most passionate about and I like to teach it with love and joy :) I also have certifications in First Aid in Remote Areas, Leave No Trace and Mountaineering courses.                                                                                                                                  

Local Guide in Santiago, Chile and Región of the Country such as Valparaíso and work with local guide asosiates with me in North and South of the Country. I provide personaized private tours for solo travelers and groups.                                                                                                                                  

Popular santiago private tours.

Wine Tour @Casablanca & Valparaiso Tour from Santiago

-Pick up at your hotel in Santiago or airport -Transfer to Coast, 129km/80mls -1 Winery at Casablanca Valley (Wine tasting Included) -Viña del Mar Tour -Valparaiso Tour -Drop off at your hotel in Santiago/ Valpo or airport

Santiago Full Day Highlight Tour

-pick up at your hotel in santiago -santiago full day tour general history, residential, historical area, commercial area, bohemian area, any kind of markets, etc. -drop off at santiago hotel.

Santiago Half Day Highlight Tour

-pick up at your hotel in santiago -santiago half day tour -drop off at your hotel in santiago duration : 3.5 hrs pick up time : 10:00 / flexible i invite you to experience to discover this big city. a historical city with its european eclectic and french neoclassic architecture style building in many different part of down town. and civic area where are the major and most important political offices of chilean country..

City Tour by Santiago

Santiago is the capital of chile. this fascinating city has much to offer for everyone. historical buildings and incredible places make this a city that can be visited many times..

New Santiago Private Tours

Walking through Santiago with public transport

This is a unique opportunity to know santiago de chile as a local. we will start taking the teleferic at the san cristobal hill in order to have the best panoramic view of the city. we continue taking the funicular to go down and we will start our walk through the main neighborhoods in santiago, including the historic quarter and the government palace of la moneda..

Santa Lucia Hills

A tour of one of the most important hills in santiago, where history, architecture and culture mix in a very interesting and dynamic tour. cerro santa lucia represents a very important site for many cultures, mapuches, incas, and later spanish, had settlements in these areas, and the hill was an important key point in their development..

Wine Trail at Casablanca

We will start early morning with a pick up at your hotel and drive towards the coast from santiago around 1.5hours. first stop will be at a local breakfast place to catch a coffee and start pure wine experiences at the next stop booked at a winery to taste. our third stop will be at a second winery to have a tour and taste and end with lunch at dame winery. after lunch we will go to our lady winery to taste our lady cup of wine and return to hotel..

Half Day sightseeing tour Highlights of Santiago

We will pick you up at your hotel once we meet will drive you on a vehicle with driver towards the city that is around a 25 to 20 minute drive. once we get to the old center of the city, foundation grounds we will drive along the main squares and appreciate the amazing arquitecture of the first palaces built by the first spanish that settled in the city blending with the colours and styles that predominanted those days with now days., popular santiago private cars.

Private Transfer Airport to Santiago Hotel

-pick up at santiago airport please provide us with airline company, flight number, arrival time, departure city name -private transfer to santiago city, 25km/16mls -drop off at your hotel in santiago duration: 00:25 hr pick up time: flexible.

Cerro Pintor: Adventure at 4200 m.a.s.l. in the Chilean Andes

Cerro pintor, at 4180 meters above sea level near santiago, chile, is renowned for its vibrant colors. accessible within a day from la parva ski resort, the route includes a challenging yet technically straightforward climb past laguna piuquenes. at this altitude, the weather is cold and the air dry, but the views from the summit, especially of cerro el plomo, are breathtaking..

Transfer from hotel in Santiago to Pier

We will pick you up at your hotel and drive to san antonio pier with your luggage. drive 1.5 hours towards pier check in área, drop off luggage and do the check in to the cruise. end of transfer..

Santiago Private City Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems

Explore santiago’s vibrant culture and history on a guided private city tour. from the stunning andes views to historic neighborhoods, discover the heart of chile’s capital. immerse yourself in chilean culture with visits to iconic landmarks such as la moneda palace, the heart of chilean politics, and the stunning metropolitan cathedral. learn about the city's past and present and how "santiaguinos" experience their daily life..

Santiago Tour Reviews

“ Fantastic service and personalized touches. ”

We needed transport from the Santiago Airport to Vina Del Mar where we would stay a few days before embarking on a cruise. Hector picked us up directly from the Santiago airport in a very nice and clean Mercedez mini-van. We stopped in a quaint coffee shop in a small town to take a breather before heading to a beautiful winery, tucked away in the rolling hills of the Casablanca Valley. We were hosted by Alexandra, the sommelier of the Villard Winery who recounted the French history of the winery and explained the characteristics of the soil, micro climate and sun exposure that gave each grape its unique and wonderful flavor. By far, the best wine tasting experience we ever had. Then Hector presented us with a series of options for lunch and we opted for a small Italian restaurant in his native city of Valparaiso, outside of the usual tourist tracks. We loved it!! He then took us around the city of Vina Del Mar before dropping us at our hotel in late afternoon. Throughout the tour and intersperse with personal stories, Hector took the time to explain his country’s history and culture. The day could not have been better. We highly recommend Hector and his driver.

Airport-SANTIAGO Tour - Transfer SnAntonioCruiseTerm

“ City tour and transfer to hotel San Antonio ”

We enjoyed a relaxing but informative private city tour with Juan after arriving in Santiago from Canada. Juan showed us many sights, some driving but also some walking, as well as the gondola, before driving us to San Antonio hotel. He was efficient, kind and had a sense of humor. Appreciated his English! Thanks.

Customized private tour of Santiago + airport transfer + transfer to San Antonio pier

“ Wonderful time in Santiago! ”

Maricel was the perfect guide! After picking us up at an unearthly hour in the morning, she organised a half day packed with the best sights of Santiago. We ended our tour with lunch at a lovely vineyard before drop-off at our cruise ship. We had an awesome time in Santiago... Thanks Thomas and Maricel!

Santiago Private Tour Guide

Discover Santiago’s everlasting culture & modern future, with a private tour guide that uncovers hidden gems and secret sites. Your expert guide awaits!

From Barrio Alta’s artistic corners to the quiet neighborhood of Yungay, a private guide unveils hidden galleries, sharing insights on Santiago’s evolving landscapes along the way. With an intricate web of streets to take on, a private guided experience creates immersive pockets of knowledge and understanding with every step.

Navigating Santiago's maze is an art, and a private tour with a local guide transforms it into a masterpiece. They unravel the lesser-known corners, like the sculpture-riddled sanctuary of Parque Bicentenario or the peace and quiet of Maipo Valley's boutique wineries, crafting a personal experience beyond the usual.

Santiago Frequently Asked Questions

How many days in santiago are enough gowithguide find your perfect tour guide at gowithguide. relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip, how can i spend 24 hours in santiago gowithguide find your perfect tour guide at gowithguide. relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip, how walkable is santiago, chile gowithguide find your perfect tour guide at gowithguide. relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip, what is the best month to visit santiago, chile gowithguide find your perfect tour guide at gowithguide. relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip, do you need to speak spanish in santiago, chile gowithguide find your perfect tour guide at gowithguide. relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip, is santiago safe to walk around gowithguide find your perfect tour guide at gowithguide. relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip, latest santiago articles.

Hiring A Guide In Santiago: Pros & Cons

Santiago, Chile

  You know you’ve hit a travel planning roadblock when the thought of scaling the Andes Mountains sounds easier than coming up with a comprehensive Santiago de Chile itinerary. We’ve all been there. Spinning from the confusion and excitement that comes w...

Tourism In Santiago Statistics 2023: The Ultimate Guide

  surrounded by mountains, cut across by a river, and filled with the modern world’s greatest luxuries, santiago de chile is the capital of the longest nation in the world, and the perfect destination for travel enthusiasts looking to navigate a city wra..., the best tours and activities.

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Connect with a Santiago Local Guide

Read reviews and chat with the best local tour guides in santiago. get a free itinerary and plan your private tour today..

Transportation & Transfers

Tour santiago by car or van, get an airport transfer, or hire a private guide / driver. see reviews and all options..

Book a customizable Santiago Private Tour

Browse santiago tour itineraries by our local professionals and book your favorite santiago tour., related santiago tour guide pages.

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Get ready for the rustic charms of seaside Castro, where stilt neighborhoods glow in a multitude of colors and tourHQ private guide in chile can reveal the windswept wilds and beaches of the Chiloe Province.

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Enjoy the mild breezes of Valparaiso on the Chilean Pacific; a lively sea port of a town that’s set between Patagonia’s majestic backcountry and best explored with a tourHQ guide.

A fusion of modern skyscrapers and elegant presidential palaces set under the gaze of the forever snow-topped Chilean Andes, this capital of more than 500 years is best explored with a tourHQ guide.

Iquique buzzes with casinos and palm-shaded fashionista strips. Get a local tourHQ guide to help you navigate the bars of Playa Cavancha and the duty-free shopping of Zofri.

Pretty La Serena is a serene and elegant place of church towers and neoclassical facades. Get a tourHQ guide to show you the nighttime stars of the Elqui Valley and the brilliant beaches of Coquimbo here.

Punta Arenas

Whether you head to this far-flung Patagonian town in search of ski fields at Cerro Mirador or hiking in the Torres del Paine, tourHQ’s local Punta Arenas guides can help plan your itinerary.

Vina del Mar

Sun-splashed beaches and leaning coconut palms mark out Vina del Mar as one of Chile’s top touristic gems. Get a local tourHQ guide to discover all the local tips and tricks for the Latin town.

Puerto Natales City

A Puerto Natales City tour guide from TourHQ can help enjoy the wealth of outdoors pursuits in this, far-flung trekking Chilean destination that is the gateway to Torres Del Paine.

Explore the list of top ranked local tour guides in Pucon. Get tour activities offered by tour companies and independent travel guides in Pucon.

Puerto Varas

Explore the list of top ranked local tour guides in Puerto Varas. Get tour activities offered by tour companies and independent travel guides in Puerto Varas.

San Pedro de Atacama

Get a local tourHQ guide to help reveal the best coffee shops, backpacker parties and adventure package providers of this dusty town on the edge of the mighty Atacama Desert.

Chile’s land is a one-stop shop for ecosystems of the world. Dry deserts and sandy dunes stand nearby dense forestation and volcanic terrain; but none as breathtaking as Chile’s dazzling glacial fields. These landscapes, with as much beauty as contrast, allow visitors to make their Chilean trip as adventurous or relaxing as they dream. Whether you climb your way up the rocky Andes or lounge in the natural hot springs, unravel the mystery of the Easter Island or spend a day fly fishing in the Carretera Austral, nature’s backdrop creates an irreplaceable setting. That this breathtaking wilderness is beautifully preserved is a credit to its people, the latter perhaps the only facet of Chilean life as enticing as its’ land. Perhaps it is the physical thinness of the country, but people’s lives intertwine with each other’s effortlessly, and soon enough you find your tourist guard down to experience a comfort directly bred from the Chileans’ natural hospitality. Further infuse yourself into the Chilean way of life by snacking on an emapanada and a Pisco sour, Chile’s national drink that is a white brandy made from grapes, while yet another of its drink sourced from grape, the world famous Chilean wine can be found in far reaches of the world.

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Travel Guide to Patagonia

Patagonia is located in the remote southernmost region of South America, spanning the countries of Argentina and Chile. It’s an outdoor adventurer’s dream with some of the world’s most stunning scenery. You’ll discover a breathtaking vista around nearly every corner, from some of the highest mountain peaks on the continent to vast glaciers tinged with blue. Activity options include everything from hiking, climbing, biking, and horseback riding to kayaking and whitewater rafting. 

If you’re trying to decide whether to explore Chilean or Argentine Patagonia, the latter offers more wildlife encounters, but the former is renowned for its dramatic landscapes like Torres del Paine National Park. The most famous of Patagonia’s national parks, its granite spires tower more than 6,500 feet above the wild terrain, carved out by glaciers that sweep down to valleys and hang over cliffs. Ideally, you’ll be able to visit both. Either way, this Patagonia travel guide will help you make the best decisions for a memorable trip, revealing everything from what to pack, when to visit, how to get around, where to stay, and the top things to do in Patagonia. 

Weather/What to Pack

• Waterproof hiking boots
• Lightweight walking shoes
• Clothing that dries quickly and can be layered for changing conditions
• Thermal leggings
• Fleece sweatshirt or jacket
• Heavier waterproof jacket
• Beanie or another type of warm hat
• Sun protection, including sunscreen, a sun hat, and sunglasses
• Small backpack or daypack 
• LARQ Bottle Filtered™  

It’s essential to pack smart for travel to Patagonia. Layering will be your best friend no matter when you visit. One minute it can feel like Buenos Aires on a warm, sunny day but the next might be more like you’ve ventured to Antarctica. Be sure to bring your LARQ Bottle Filtered™ to stay hydrated while enjoying clean, good-tasting water without having to resort to plastic bottled water that can harm animals and the environment. It’s safe to drink tap water in most towns throughout Patagonia as it’s treated, but it may have an unpleasant chlorinated taste if not filtered through your LARQ Bottle. When hiking on trails, filling your bottle from a stream is safe, eliminating the need to carry lots of water. If you wanted added protection against bio-contaminants such as E.coli and Salmonella though, be sure to use the PureVis™ cap instead which uses non-toxic UV-C to eradicate them. 

When to Visit Patagonia

The ideal months for visiting Patagonia are between November and early March due to milder weather conditions, with December through February the peak period of the high season. This is the Patagonian summer, when temperatures typically from the 50s to mid-70s during the day, dropping into the 40s at night. November and March are shoulder season months, a time when you can avoid the biggest crowds and the most expensive prices while still enjoying decent weather.  Be aware that strong winds and rain can occur at any time of the year.

How to Get Around Patagonia

For the most flexibility and freedom, rent a car to get around Patagonia. If you do, you can embark on one of the world’s most scenic road trips along the Carretera Austral, a highway in the south of Chile passing breathtaking areas that are still untouched by humans, with enormous glaciers, Andean Patagonia forests, turquoise lakes, and pristine rivers. 

Keep in mind that Patagonia is a vast and sparsely populated area. It’s divided into three different regions: Southern Patagonia, Atlantic Patagonia, and the Lake District. In some cases, getting around by plane is better with the attractions very spread out. Both Argentine Patagonia and Chilean Patagonia are well-connected by a network of buses, and there are frequent flights to and from the larger towns in Chile and Argentina. When you have to cover considerable distances, local flights can be a big timesaver. 

Where to Stay

Patagonia offers all types of accommodation. That includes budget-friendly campsites with access to shared showers and toilets, hostels with shared and private rooms, apartment and home rentals, mountain lodges, luxury hotels, and resorts. There are also estancias that provide unique experiences, hosting rustic accommodation on a large sheep or cattle ranch. It’s an opportunity to learn all about the Patagonian farm or ranch life which can include horseback riding excursions along with home-cooked meals.

• El Chalten/Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina: Explora El Chalten
• Puerto Madryn, Valdes Peninsula, Argentina: Hotel Territorio
• Puerto Natales/Torres del Paine National Park, Chile: The Singular Patagonia
• Torres del Paine National Park, Chile: Tierra Patagonia Hotel and Spa
• Argentine Lake District, Argentina: Estancia Peuma Hue
• El Calafate, Argentina: Estancia Cristina

Things to Do in Patagonia

Explore patagonia on horseback with a gaucho.

One of the most unforgettable ways to explore Patagonia is on horseback . In this region, you’ll find tours led by gaucho guides, sort of like Latin American “cowboys.”They’re renowned for their horse riding skills and their vast knowledge of the landscape, with trips available that will take you through stunning destinations like Torres del Paine National Park. Discover its breathtaking granite pillars, sapphire lakes, rushing rivers, glistening glaciers, and dense forests while learning about the region’s flora, fauna, and geology. Along the way, you might spot wildlife like guanaco, a relative of the camel, the Andean condor, and puma.

Hit the Trails

Hiking is one of the top things to do in both Chilean and Argentine Patagonia, although Torres del Paine National Park in Chile is particularly appealing. Its awe-inspiring landscapes include the soaring jagged peaks of the Las Torres and the bell-shaped Los Curenos along with the lakes in surreal turquoise hues. Many come to hike the four-day, 43-mile-long “W” which features the main highlights, including Las Torres, the French Valley, and Glacier Grey. It’s the perfect introduction for those new to multi-day treks, camping, or staying in shared dorm rooms along the way. For those who prefer something short and sweet, Torres del Paine is jam-packed with easy trails and epic views. The hike to Mirador Condor is a moderate trek but be aware of the strong winds at the top. They’re worth enduring for the magnificent views of the teal glacial lakes.

In Argentine Patagonia, the Laguna de Los Tres hike is the most famous. Starting from the small town of El Chalten, it climbs 2,625 feet to Laguna de Los Tres which lies beneath the impressive Cerro Fitz Roy mountain peak. This one is challenging, a 13-mile round-trip journey, but when you reach the top, you’ll be glad you did it.

Boat Excursion to Glacier Grey

Those who aren’t up for huffing it around on foot might consider visiting Glacier Grey by boat. Part of the extraordinary Patagonian ice field, it covers nearly 105 square miles of Torres del Paine National Park. Its name comes from its deep, bluish-grey color, which stands out from the landscape so much that it can even be seen from space. Icebergs drift across the icy water in Lago Grey (Grey Lake) with a backdrop of dramatic snow-capped mountains, hanging glaciers, and cascading waterfalls. 

The boat excursion will bring you all the way to the massive glacier face so that you can take in the vastness of it all and even hear the crackling sounds of the shifting ice. If you’re lucky, you’ll even get to witness a berg thunderously plunge into the water while you sip the local drink, a pisco sour made with glacial ice.

Get Up Close to Petito Moreno Glacier

Another way to get up close to a glacier can be enjoyed by heading to the small town of El Calafate on the Argentina side near the edge of the Southern Patagonia Ice Field. From here you can experience the awe of Petito Moreno Glacier with guided tours bringing unique perspectives of the ice. Known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” the glacier stretches for nearly three miles along a lake with turquoise glacial water, creating a symphony of brilliant blues for a mesmerizing spectacle. 

From El Calafate, you’ll also have easy access to the mountains for hiking and multiple lakes for paddling. The town offers artisan markets, a brewery, and eateries serving famous Patagonian lamb.

Penguin Encounters

Patagonia is a great place to see penguins and the very best spot is Punta Tombo , home to the world’s biggest Magellanic penguin colony. There’s no other penguin settlement on Earth of this size that can be easily accessed, reached via a 90-minute drive from Trelew, Argentina. You can even walk among the tuxedoed birds to observe their way of life. 

Another great place to see penguins, including penguin chicks that test their swimming skills near Peninsula Valdes, is Martillo Island. Isla Martillo is only accessible by boat from Ushuaia in the Tierra del Fuego province in the far south of Argentina, nestled between the jagged peaks of the Martial Mountains and the Beagle Channel. Here you’ll see good-sized colonies of both Magellanic and Gentoo penguins.

Whale Watching

Argentine Patagonia is the place to go for whale watching too. It’s home to four different types of whales, including humpback, blue, southern right, and orca. While the experience can be enjoyed across the region, including Punta Arenas and around Puerto Piramides, the most unique whale watching is at Puerto Madryn. There are common sightings of southern right whales here that can weigh as much as 69 tons and grow as long as 55 feet. From the shores of Gulfo Nuevo Bay, thousands of them can be seen in the waters where calves learn to breathe. Between August and October, sightings are virtually guaranteed. 

The orcas along the Valdes Peninsula are world-famous for their hunting technique, something that can be witnessed when sea lion pups are present. In Punta Norte, that’s February through April, and in Punta Delgada and Caleta Valdes, it’s September through November.

Kayak to the Marble Caves

There are many different kayaking excursions available in Patagonia but one of the most off-the-beaten-path and unforgettable is the Marble Caves tour from Puerto Rio Tranquilo in Chile. If you do the famous road trip on the Carretera Austral mentioned earlier, it’s an easy stop along the way. You’ll be able to paddle out to these caves that were carved out of solid marble polished only by the lapping of the luminescent blue-green lake over thousands of years. 

Experience the Thrill of Whitewater Rafting

Futaleufu in Chile is not only one of Patagonia’s most beautiful regions, but it’s renowned for its world-class rafting , ranked among the best places on the planet for the adventure with rapids that can hit class 5. There are family-friendly floats on the aquamarine-hued water for gentle entertainment and spectacular views as well as heart-pounding trips that provide the total adrenaline surge.

Chile's Cristobal Del Solar earns four-stroke win at The Ascendant presented by Blue

Daily Wrap Up

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Chile native Cristobal Del Solar earned his first Korn Ferry Tour title Sunday at The Ascendant presented by Blue, finishing 22-under at TPC Colorado for a four-stroke win over Brian Campbell and Matthew Riedel.

Del Solar trailed 54-hole leader Matt McCarty by three strokes into Sunday, but the Florida State alum stormed to the top of the leaderboard with a final-round, 6-under 66 that included eagles at the par-5 fifth and 15th holes, from 33 and 40 feet respectively. He finished in style with a chip-in birdies at the par-3 16th and par-4 18th holes.

Earlier this year, Del Solar made history as the first player to shoot 57 in a PGA TOUR-sanctioned event; the seven-year pro carded 13-under 57 in the opening round of the Astara Golf Championship presented by Mastercard in Bogota, Colombia.

Now, Mr. 57 is headed to the PGA TOUR.

Final-round notes

• Cristobal Del Solar (first/-22) becomes the 12th first-time Korn Ferry Tour winner this season.
• Del Solar’s victory marks his sixth top-10 of the season, tying Max McGreevy for the most top-10s on Tour this season.
• Matthew Riedel (T2/-18), who finished No. 4 in the 2024 PGA TOUR University Ranking, posts his best finish in what was his fifth start (and third made cut) on the Korn Ferry Tour; he entered the week with a season-high finish of T34/Memorial Health Championship presented by LRS.
• Brian Campbell (T2/-18) records his fourth runner-up finish in a Korn Ferry Tour event, as well as his second runner-up finish of the 2024 season (P2/Astara Golf Championship presented by Mastercard).
• Alistair Docherty (fourth/-17) birdies the final hole in regulation to tie his career-high finish (T4/2024 Memorial Health Championship presented by LRS), moves out of a six-way T5 and into a solo-fourth finish, a difference of 45 points on the 2024 Korn Ferry Tour Points List.
• Only two of the seven 54-hole leads of three-plus strokes this season have been converted into victories (Ryan Gerard/BMW Charity Pro-Am presented by TD SYNNEX/led by three, won by six; John Pak/Compliance Solutions Championship/led by seven, won by three).
• Christo Lamprecht (T5/-16), who finished No. 2 in the 2024 PGA TOUR University Ranking and earned fully exempt Korn Ferry Tour membership for the remainder of the 2024 season, closes in 6-under 66 and converts his first made cut on Tour into a top-five finish.
• University of Colorado alum and Korn Ferry Tour winner Jeremy Paul (T5/-16) birdies three of the final four holes (Nos. 15, 17, 18) and posts his first top-10 since winning the season-opening The Bahamas Great Exuma Classic at Sandals Emerald Bay, also records his second top-10 in three starts at The Ascendant presented by Blue (T3/2022).
• Two-time Korn Ferry Tour winner Trevor Cone (T5/-16) posts a second consecutive top-10 and his fifth top-10 of the season; he did not have more than two top-10s in a single Korn Ferry Tour season prior to this year.
• Open qualifier Will Chandler (T10/-15) converts his third made cut of the season into his first top-25 finish on the Korn Ferry Tour and, subsequently, a spot in next week’s Price Cutter Charity Championship presented by Dr Pepper.
• Australian Karl Vilips (T13/-14), who finished No. 10 in the 2024 PGA TOUR University Ranking, records a top-25 in his Korn Ferry Tour debut and earns a spot in next week’s Price Cutter Charity Championship presented by Dr Pepper.