Hotels Chile See great deals
The sights of Chile are considered very interesting and unusual, which is explained by the great length of the country, the variety of climatic zones. In natural terms, it is unique, 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? In a nutshell, you can't say. This topic should be devoted to a separate article.
What to see in Chile in the first place?
The country boasts the highest quality roads, an extensive network of railroad tracks, as well as convenient flights. This means that no matter what sight of Chile you decide to see, it will not be difficult to get to your destination.
1. Andean Christ
The majestic statue is a symbol of prosperity 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 a war almost broke out between these states, for a long time they could not determine their borders. The end of the conflict was the grand opening of the majestic monument, which brought together the inhabitants 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 Andean Christ statue.
2. Valle de la Luna
The whimsical landscape of Moonvale
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 with a variety of colors and textures. Why did the valley get its name? Because it has amazing similarities with the surface of the celestial body of the moon. In the valley, tourists are not left indifferent to breathtaking landscapes. The highlight are dry lakes, salt-covered rocks, rock slopes, playing in the sun. Rocks that change their shape about a thousand times a day deserve special attention. When asked what to see in Chile, the answer is simple: visit the moon valley.
Official website: http://chile.travel/en/
3. Easter Island
Stone idols of Moa on Easter Island
It is 3514 km away from the mainland, and the land area is known for stone statues made from compressed ash. They are exposed along the coast, and their eyes are directed to the ocean. The look of the statues is creepy, but at the same time bewitching. It still remains 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. Traveling to Easter Island in any case will be exciting and interesting. Every year they have a big party there.
4. 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 the colonial style, look good with modern buildings in the form of skyscrapers. And the background is simply mesmerizing, these are the majestic Andes covered with snow. 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 sights, one day is not enough, because the city has collected the history and culture of the whole country.
5. San Cristobal Hill
Cable car up San Cristobal Hill
This is one of the main attractions of Chile, it is located in North Santiago. Having reached 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 the observation deck. The appearance of the unknown world is represented by small houses with orange roofs, snow-white cathedrals. Characteristic are winding streets, palm trees, tropical plants. Where to go in Chile, staying on the hill of San Cristobal? It is worth taking a walk in the botanical garden, visiting the wine museum and the zoo, where flamingos, real giraffes, meerkats live.
Official website: http://www.parquemet.
Feel the atmosphere of Chile in this beautiful video!6. Lauca National Park
Volcanoes and Lake Chungara in 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 in the park area? It is represented by endless steppes, the foothills of the Cordillera range, as well as a plateau, 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, in the surrounding waters of the national park, you can put up a tent and watch a wonderful sunrise. On the adjacent territory there is a historical monument of Tambo de Chungara, which is a kind of checkpoint. Do not miss the opportunity to walk along the streets of the small town of Parinacota, explore the caves at the base of the rocky slopes. This Chile landmark has a lot more to offer.
7. Churches of Chiloe Island
Bright facade of the Stave Church of St. Francis on the island of Chiloe
The land plot is located in Patagonia, namely, off the southern coast of Chile, in contact with the Pacific Ocean. On its territory there is a unique historical monument demonstrating the architecture of the 18th – 19th 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. A trip to Chiloe Island will be interesting.
8. Magdalena Island
Old Lighthouse and Magdalena 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 area 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. Hiking trails, fenced with ropes, are laid throughout its territory. If you dreamed of taking a photo with a real penguin, then Magdalena Island is for you.
9. Valparaiso
Colorful buildings on the hills of the city of Valparaiso
This settlement is the main port of the state. It is located in the bay with the same name, which is surrounded by mountains on all sides. In their reviews, many tourists note that getting to know the city leaves the most vivid impressions, because it is the “keeper” of the indescribable spirit of antiquity. Of the attractions in the city there is Sotomayor Square, a monument-mausoleum dedicated to Captain Arturo Prat. Museums, the building of the Maritime Ministry also attract attention. On Muel Pratt, you can shop for souvenirs, grab something at a diner, or enjoy a full meal at one of the highly rated restaurants.
10. Mining town of Sewell
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, finished structures were painted in bright colors. The architecture was made according to the model of the 19th century, only in some buildings modernism can be traced. What to see in Chile in 1 day? Head to a mining town nestled on the slopes of the Andes. By the way, it was founded in 1904 for the purpose of mining copper.
11. Viña del Mar Botanical Garden
Viña del Mar Nereidas Botanical Garden Green Zone
This is not just a landmark of Chile, but a great place to relax, reunite with nature. Work is constantly being carried out there, aimed at preserving the flora of the south-central part of the country. The total area of the garden is 395 hectares, on its territory there is a park of 32 hectares. 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 provides an 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 Natural Park
Landscape of Pumalin Natural Park
This is one of the few reserves located on the territory of the described state. The local infrastructure is rated as well developed. This is manifested in the presence of hiking trails, the well-established work of the information center, and the well-equipped campsites. If you use the services of guides in Chile, you can learn the history of the emergence and development of the natural park. The local nature is wild, pristine, however, despite this, farms, cheese factories, and honey production fit in the park area. For tourists there are small shops, there is even a restaurant and a campground.
Official website: http://www.parquepumalin.
13. Ojos Volcano del Salado
Snow cover of Ojos del Salado volcano sergejf
On the whole earth, it is considered the highest, its peak rises to the heavens at 6893 m. The last volcanic eruption dates back more than a thousand years ago. When a small ash emission occurred in 1993, it was “reclassified” as an active one. This landmark of Chile has several more records. On the territory of the country, this point is the highest, and it also has the highest lake on Earth. There is no permanent snow cap on the summit. Polish climbers were the first to climb the volcano; on the way up, they discovered several sacrificial altars. This suggests that for the ancient Americans it was a sacred mountain.
14. Humberstone and Santa Laura
Buildings in the ghost towns of Humberston and Santa Laura
To date, these are 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. Businesses went bankrupt during the Great Depression in 1929. The main reason was the development of ammonia synthesis. Tours in Chile about abandoned factories are often organized.
15. Torres del Paine National Park
Picturesque corner of 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 worth, 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, unique. There, flora and fauna have been preserved untouched by human activity, which cannot but amaze. Where to go in Chile while in 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: http://www.parquetorresdelpaine
16. San Rafael Glacier
An icy river flowing into the San Rafael Sea Lagoon
This attraction of Chile is one of the main ones of natural origin. The area of the atmospheric ice mass is 170 km², and the height of the wall reaches 70 m. It is part of the Northern Patagonian Ice Field, which at one time formed around the San Valentin mountain peak. 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. Pucon city
Pucon city and surroundings
This place is considered the capital of active tourism. The settlement itself cannot be called large, however, on its territory there is a lake, a volcano, a wide variety of active sports are offered. Don't know what to see in Chile already? Think you've seen everything? You are wrong. The city of Pucon celebrates the presence of inspiring natural energy. It was founded back in 1883 with the aim of being used 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 (nearby town). Pucon is an ideal place for those who love fishing and enjoying beautiful scenery.
18. Lake District
The land of lakes and volcanoes, unique in its beauty
Another name for Chile's sights is the “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 are located picturesque towns. The Lake District area offers a lot of interesting entertainment. You can choose from rafting or fishing, horseback riding, rock climbing and even yachting. Nearby is the Pucon ski resort. The description says that there are 9 lifts, 20 slopes for skiing. There are no problems with renting special equipment.
Sights of Chile: what else to visit in Chile?
The first to be described were the sights of Chile that must be seen without fail. And now let's figure out what is worth seeing in Chile if the vacation is not over yet.
19. Natural monument of La Portada
Unique arch created by nature
Belongs to the number of 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 it. Even experienced guides in Chile cannot tell the exact age of the fossils, there are suggestions that it varies between 2-35 million years.
20. Elqui Valley
Green vineyards in the Elqui Valley
Considered the birthplace of Pisco grape brandy, it is a well-known Chilean drink. Its unique composition involves mixing lime juice, sugar, eggs. The valley covered with vineyards is located along the river of the same name. You can stop in neighboring settlements, and if you like the starry sky above your head, then you can camp.
21. Portillo Ski Resort
Portillo ski slopes
What to see in Chile for true lovers of snow, a relaxing holiday? An excellent option is a resort located on the shores of a picturesque lake. Be aware that the ski resort there lasts from mid-June to October.
22. Puerto Varas City
Puerto Varas city and Lake Llanquihue in the background Andes and Calbuco volcano
It is worth walking along it to admire the magnificent views of the Osorno volcano, colonial-style houses. This is a great place for fishermen, river rafting and horseback riding enthusiasts.
23. Desert Arm
Giant hand “Mano de Desierto” 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. Having decided to go to the desert, make sure 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 room rates. You can find it on special sites where you can book an apartment.
Read also about the best sights of Costa Rica and be inspired for your further journey through the countries of America!
