The sights of Chile are considered very interesting and unusual, which is explained by the large extent of the country and the variety of climatic zones. It is unique from a natural point of view, because in the landscapes there are both mountains covered with snow, and deserts, flat areas of the surface with dense forests. What to see in Chile? You can’t say it in two words. A separate article should be devoted to this topic.
What is the first thing to see in Chile?
The country boasts the highest quality highways, an extensive network of railway tracks, as well as convenient air service. This means that no matter what attraction in Chile you decide to see, it will not be difficult to get to your destination.
1. The Andean Christ
The majestic statue is a symbol of well-being and tranquility on the Bermejo Pass
The monument was erected in honor of the Redeemer of Man, for more than 100 years it has been located on the territory separating Chile and Argentina. Once upon a time, a war almost broke out between these states, for a long time they could not define their borders. The end of the conflict was the grand opening of the majestic monument, which brought together residents of the two states, as a result of which a settlement agreement was signed. If you don’t know what to see in Chile, you can start with the statue of the Andean Christos.
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2. Valle de la Luna
The bizarre landscape of the Moon Valley
In the vicinity of the city of San Pedro, this place is one of the most popular among tourists. It is represented by an accumulation of sand mixed with rocks and salts. For thousands of years, all this has been polished by winds and masses of water, resulting in something iridescent in a variety of colors and textures. Why did the valley get such a name? Because it has amazing similarities with the surface of the moon’s celestial body. In the valley, tourists are not left indifferent by the breathtaking scenery. The highlight is the dry lakes, salt-covered rocks, rock slopes playing in the sunlight. Rocks that change their shape about a thousand times a day deserve special attention. To the question of what to see in Chile, the answer is simple: visit the moon valley.
Official website: https://chile.travel
3. Easter Island
Moa Stone Statues on Easter Island
It is 3,514 km away from the mainland, and the land area is known for stone statues made of compressed ash. They are exposed along the shore, and their eyes are directed to the ocean. The look of the statues is creepy, but at the same time fascinating. It is still a mystery how the 10 m high idols got there. Studies have shown that moai were made in quarries in the central part of the island. In any case, a trip to Easter Island will be fascinating and interesting. Every year there is a big celebration.
4. The city of Santiago
Modern high-rise buildings of the city of Santiago
This is another place that is really worth visiting in Chile. The settlement is considered the capital of the described state, in 1541 it was founded by the conquistadors. It’s nice to be in Santiago because its streets are perfectly clean. It is noteworthy that the old houses, decorated in a colonial style, look good with modern buildings in the form of skyscrapers. And the background is simply mesmerizing, these are the majestic snow-covered Andes. What to see in Chile, namely in the capital? To get to know the city, it makes sense to visit museums and palaces. But in order to appreciate all the available attractions, one day is not enough, because the city contains the history and culture of the whole country.
5. San Cristobal Hill
San Cristobal Hill Cable Car
This is one of the main attractions of Chile, it is located in Northern Santiago. When you get to the top of the hill, you can visit the observatory, admire the statue of the Virgin Mary, and also see with your own eyes part of the sanctuary of the Immaculate Conception. A bird’s-eye view of Santiago is best done from an observation deck. The appearance of the unknown world is represented by small houses with orange roofs, snow-white cathedrals. Winding streets, palm trees, and tropical plants are characteristic. Where to go in Chile while staying on San Cristobal Hill? It’s worth a walk in the botanical garden, visit the wine museum and the zoo, where flamingos, real giraffes, and meerkats live.
Official website: https://www.parquemet.cl
Feel the atmosphere of Chile in this beautiful video!
6. Lauka National Park
Volcanoes and Lake Chungara in the Lauca Alberto National Park….
In the Aymara language, the name means “water grass”. The park was created in 1970 on the basis of the Forest Reserve of the same name. The total area exceeds 137 thousand hectares. What is there in the park area? It is represented by endless steppes, the foothills of the Cordillera range, as well as the plateau of the same name with the famous lake, Titicaca. In 1981, this landmark of Chile was included in the UNESCO list. If you take into account the recommendations of experienced tourists, you can put up a tent in the surrounding water areas of the national park and meet the wonderful dawn. In the adjacent territory there is a historical monument Tambo de Chungara, which is a kind of checkpoint. Do not miss the opportunity to walk through the streets of the small town of Parinakota, explore the caves at the base of the rocky slopes. This landmark of Chile contains many more interesting things.
7. Churches of Chiloe Island
The bright facade of the wooden church of St. Francis on the island of Chiloe
The land area is located in Patagonia, namely off the southern coast of Chile, in contact with the Pacific Ocean. There is a unique historical monument on its territory, demonstrating the architecture of the XVIII – XIX centuries. Catholic churches in the area were built by the Spaniards in order to convert the local population to Christianity. The buildings show us the European Middle Ages and at the same time the culture of the local Indians. Most importantly, they are all built without the use of nails. The trip to Chiloe Island will be interesting.
8. Magdalena Island
The Old Lighthouse and the Magellanic Penguin Colony of Magdalena Island
This landmark of Chile has gained worldwide fame due to the huge number of penguins that live on a small piece of land. It is located in the Strait of Magellan. The island is inhabited only by penguins, so the only building there is an old lighthouse. There are hiking trails fenced with ropes throughout its territory. If you dreamed of taking a photo with a real penguin, then you are on Magdalena Island.
9. Valparaiso City
Colorful buildings on the hills of Valparaiso
This settlement is the main port of the state. It is located in a bay with the same name, which is surrounded by mountains on all sides. In their reviews, many tourists note that the most vivid impressions remain from exploring the city, because it is the “keeper” of the indescribable spirit of antiquity. Among the attractions in the city there is Sotomayor Square, a mausoleum monument dedicated to Captain Arturo Prat. Museums and the building of the Maritime Ministry also attract attention. On the Muelle Pratt embankment, you can buy souvenirs, grab something at a snack bar or have a full meal at one of the highly rated restaurants.
10. Sewell Mining Town
The abandoned mining town of Sewell Pablo Viojo
Today, the settlement is uninhabited, it is located in the Chilean mountains, not far from the capital. At one time, the mining settlement was used all year round, but now it is considered a World Heritage Site. The houses were built of wood, the finished structures were painted in bright shades. The architecture was modeled after the 19th century, only in some buildings modernism can be traced. What to see in Chile in 1 day? Head to the mining town located on the slopes of the Andes. By the way, it was founded in 1904 for the purpose of copper mining.
11. Vina del Mar Botanical Garden
Green area of the Botanical Garden of Viña del Mar Nereidas
This is not just a tourist attraction in Chile, but a great place to relax, reconnect with nature. Work is constantly underway there aimed at preserving the flora of the south-central part of the country. The total area of the garden is 395 hectares, and there is a 32-hectare park on its territory. There you can admire more than 280 varieties of trees, a huge collection of plants, of which there are more than 1170 species. The garden is one of the best attractions, because in addition to visual enjoyment, it gives you the opportunity to have a picnic, there are specially equipped places for this. Various events are often held on its territory, including outdoor concerts.
12. Pumalin Nature Park
The landscape of the Pumalin Nature Park
This is one of the few nature reserves located on the territory of the described state. The local infrastructure is assessed as well developed. This is manifested in the availability of hiking trails, the well-established work of the information center, and the arrangement of campsites. If you use the services of guides in Chile, you can learn the history of the appearance and development of the natural park. The local nature is wild and pristine, however, despite this, farms, cheese factories, and honey production are located on the territory of the park area. There are small shops for tourists, there is even a restaurant and a tent camp.
Official website: https://www.parquepumalin.cl
13. Ojos del Salado Volcano
Snow cover of the Ojos del Salado volcano sergejf
It is considered the highest on the whole earth, its peak rises to the heavens at 6893 m. The last eruption of the volcano dates back more than a thousand years ago. When a small ash release occurred in 1993, it was “reclassified” into an active one. This landmark of Chile has several more records. This point is the highest in the country, and it also has the highest lake on Earth. A permanent snow cap does not form on the top. Polish climbers were the first to climb the volcano, and on the way up they discovered several sacrificial altars. This suggests that for the ancient Americans it was a sacred mountain.
14. Humberston and Santa Laura
The buildings of the ghost towns of Humberston and Santa Laura
To date, these are the distressed saltpeter developments, which are located in the north of the country. In 2005, it was decided to include them in the UNESCO list. The factories are located in the Atacama Desert. The enterprises went bankrupt during the Great Depression, the event occurred in 1929. The main reason was the development of ammonia synthesis. Excursions to Chile on the topic of abandoned factories are often organized.
15. Torres del Paine National Park
A picturesque corner of the Torres del Paine National Park
It is notable for its incredibly beautiful mountain landscapes, which have no analogues in the whole world. What are the famous peaks of Patagonia, which are often found on advertising booklets, and even book covers. Torres del Paine is one of the main attractions not only because of its mountains. You can also see rivers, waterfalls, glaciers and lakes in the park. All over the world, this place is deservedly considered the most beautiful and unique. There, the flora and fauna have been preserved untouched by human activity, which is amazing. Where to go in Chile while in the Torres del Paine Park? It makes sense to pay attention to the famous peaks “Los Cuernos” and “Las Torres”. Their shape is modeled by the force of the wind, the movement of glaciers.
Official website: https://www.parquetorresdelpaine.cl
16. San Rafael Glacier
The icy river flowing into the San Rafael marine Lagoon
This landmark of Chile is one of the main ones of natural origin. The area of the mass of ice of atmospheric origin is 170 km2, and the height of the wall reaches 70 m. It is part of the Northern Patagonian glacial field, which at one time formed around the mountain peak of San Valentin. If you crave interesting places, then you should go to the glacier. This is a great opportunity to take a closer look at the cold blocks with bizarre shapes.
17. The city of Pukon
The city of Pukon and its surroundings
This place is considered the capital of active tourism. The settlement itself cannot be called large, however, there is a lake, a volcano on its territory, and a wide variety of active sports are offered. Don’t know what to see in Chile already? Do you think you’ve seen everything? You’re wrong. In the city of Pukon, the presence of inspiring natural energy is noted. It was founded back in 1883 with the aim of using it as a military fort, namely to protect the eastern borders of the state. When the first hotel appeared on the territory of the settlement, it began to attract even more tourists. You can get there by boat from Villarrica (a town nearby). Pukon is an ideal place for those who love fishing and admiring the beautiful scenery.
18. Lake District
A land of lakes and volcanoes, unique in its beauty
Another name of Chile’s landmark is “Seven Lakes”. As it has already become clear, we are talking about a whole system of reservoirs of different sizes. The most popular are those around which picturesque towns are located. The lake district offers a lot of interesting entertainment. You can choose rafting or fishing, horseback riding, rock climbing and even yachting. The Pukon Ski Resort is located nearby. The description says that there are 9 lifts, 20 slopes for downhill skiing. There are no problems with renting special equipment.
Sights of Chile: what else to visit in Chile?
The first to describe the sights of Chile, which must be viewed without fail. And now let’s figure out what is worth seeing in Chile if the vacation is not over yet.
19. La Portada Natural Monument
A unique arch created by nature
It belongs to the naturally educated, is under state protection. The monument has the form of an arch 43 m high, 23 m wide, 70 m long. Its base is represented by a black andesite stone, and the presence of sedimentary rocks is noted around. Even experienced guides in Chile cannot accurately name the age of the fossils, there are suggestions that it varies between 2-35 million years.
20. Elka Valley
Green vineyards in the Elki Valley
It is considered the birthplace of the grape brandy pisco, it is a famous Chilean drink. Its unique composition involves mixing lime juice, sugar, and eggs. The valley, covered with vineyards, is located along the river of the same name. You can stay in neighboring towns, and if you like the starry sky above your head, then you can camp.
21. Portillo Ski Resort
The slopes of the Portillo ski resort
What to see in Chile for true lovers of snow, relaxing holidays? An excellent option is a resort located on the shore of a picturesque lake. Keep in mind that the ski resort there lasts from mid-June to October.
22. The city of Puerto Varas
The city of Puerto Varas and Lake Llanquihue against the backdrop of the Andes and the Calbuco volcano
It is worth walking along it to admire the magnificent views of the Osorno volcano and the colonial-style houses. This is a great place for fishermen, lovers of rafting and horseback riding.
23. The Hand of the Desert
The giant Mano de Desierto Hand in the Atacama Desert
It is a sculpture in the Chilean Atacama desert, symbolizing the vulnerability, loneliness and helplessness of a person in the sands. If you decide to go to the desert, make sure that you have everything you need (water, food, sun protection).
No less useful is information about hotels in Chile, the level of service in them, and the cost of rooms. You can find it on special websites where you can book apartments.
Read also about the best sights of Costa Rica and be inspired for your further journey through the countries of America!
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