15 Best Places to Visit in Chile for an Unforgettable Adventure

From the edge of the driest desert on Earth to the icy fingers of Patagonia’s southern glaciers, Chile unfolds like a living tapestry of extremes. This long, narrow strip of South America surprises at every turn, think salt flats shimmering under high-altitude skies, vineyards tucked between rolling hills, colorful coastal towns buzzing with energy, and ancient forests shadowed by snow-capped volcanoes.

Whether you're a thrill-seeker chasing mountain trails or a curious traveler eager to dive into indigenous traditions and bold cuisine, Chile offers a landscape and a story for every kind of journey.

In this guide, we’ll explore the most remarkable places to visit in Chile, destinations that not only impress but also leave a lasting impression on the soul.

1. Torres del Paine National Park

If you're looking for the best place in Chile for epic natural beauty, Torres del Paine tops the list. Located in the heart of Patagonia, this national park is a world-famous playground for hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers.

Towering granite peaks, bright blue glaciers, and mirror-like lakes define the landscape. Trek the legendary W Circuit or take in the views with a day hike to the Base of the Towers. Along the way, you might spot guanacos, condors, or even a puma.

Why go: It’s Chile’s most iconic outdoor destination — raw, remote, and jaw-droppingly beautiful.

Tip: Visit in spring (October–November) or early autumn (March) to avoid crowds and enjoy mild weather.

2. Atacama Desert

The Atacama Desert is not just the driest place on Earth, it is also one of the most surreal. From the salt-crusted valleys of the Moon and Mars to flamingo-dotted lagoons and steaming geysers, the landscape feels like another planet.

Add in dazzling night skies some of the clearest in the world and it's easy to see why this is one of the best places to go in Chile.

The desert town of San Pedro de Atacama is your gateway to it all, offering access to tours, stargazing sessions, and local culture.

Why go: There’s nowhere else like it perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Tip: Pack for temperature extremes; desert nights can be freezing even in summer.

3. Santiago

As Chile’s capital, Santiago is more than just a stopover it's a vibrant city where culture, history, and modern life collide. Nestled in a valley between the Andes and coastal mountains, Santiago offers world-class museums, a thriving food scene, and easy access to nature.

Climb Cerro San Cristóbal for sweeping city views or explore the artsy Bellavista neighborhood for street art and live music. It’s a great base for day trips to nearby wine valleys or the Andes.

Why go: A cosmopolitan city with natural beauty on its doorstep.

Tip: Visit during Chile’s summer (December–February) when the city is lively and the skies are clear.

4. Valparaíso

Bohemian, gritty, and full of character, Valparaíso is Chile’s cultural soul. This colorful port city, just a short drive from Santiago, is famous for its steep hills, graffiti-covered streets, and historic funicular.

Wander through the labyrinthine alleys of Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción, where every wall tells a story through street art. Valparaíso’s mix of faded grandeur and youthful creativity makes it one of the best places to go in Chile for art lovers and free spirits.

Why go: A UNESCO-listed gem that celebrates chaos, creativity, and charm.

Tip: Wear good walking shoes, the hills and cobblestones are no joke.

5. Chiloé Island

Step into a world of myths, misty forests, and coastal villages on Chiloé Island. Located in southern Chile, this island is known for its unique culture, wooden churches (many UNESCO-listed), and palafitos colorful houses on stilts.

It is a place where folklore and nature intertwine; legends of ghost ships and forest spirits are still whispered here. Explore national parks, try curanto (a traditional seafood feast), or spot penguins on the shore. Chiloé is one of the best places in Chile for an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Why go: A magical mix of nature, culture, and storytelling.

Tip: Bring a rain jacket, the island’s weather can change quickly.

6. Lake District

Chile’s Lake District is a stunning stretch of snow-dusted volcanoes, glacial lakes, and lush forests perfect for outdoor lovers. This region, located between Temuco and Puerto Montt, feels like a slice of the Alps with a South American twist.

Towns like Frutillar and Puerto Octay showcase German-style architecture and lakeside charm, while national parks like Vicente Pérez Rosales offer world-class hiking, kayaking, and scenic drives. The views of Osorno Volcano rising above Lake Llanquihue are unforgettable.

Why go: It’s ideal for nature, water sports, and a peaceful retreat surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

Tip: Visit in the Chilean summer (December to February) for the best weather and full access to outdoor activities.

7. Pucón

Pucón is the adventure capital of Chile, nestled beside Lake Villarrica and dominated by the smoking cone of Villarrica Volcano. Whether you want to hike, ski, raft, or soak in hot springs, this small town has it all.

It is one of the best places to go in Chile for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. During summer, the beaches along the lake fill with sunbathers, while in winter, the volcano becomes a hub for skiing and snowboarding.

Why go: A perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and jaw-dropping natural surroundings.

Tip: Climb Villarrica Volcano with a licensed guide for an unforgettable experience you might even peek inside the crater.

8. Puerto Varas

Puerto Varas offers a peaceful blend of lakeside charm and Old World heritage, all framed by volcano views that never quite leave the horizon. Perched on the southern edge of Lake Llanquihue, this town is known for its German roots, seen in everything from steep-gabled houses to pastry shops serving up slices of kuchen.

The snow-capped cones of Osorno and Calbuco rise in the distance, setting the scene for slow walks along the waterfront, day trips to Petrohué Falls, or hikes through the lush trails of Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park.

Why go: A relaxed retreat where alpine scenery meets Chilean warmth and European flair.

Tip: Don’t miss a lakeside café break with fresh kuchen—the raspberry version is especially popular.

9. Easter Island (Rapa Nui)

Set adrift in the vast Pacific, Easter Island is one of the world’s most remote inhabited places—rich in mystery and ancient craftsmanship. More than 3,500 kilometers from mainland Chile, it’s home to the enigmatic Moai, massive stone figures created by the early Rapa Nui people.

Beyond the statues, the island offers volcanic landscapes, coral-fringed beaches, and a living culture rooted in Polynesian tradition. Whether you're tracing coastal trails or watching the sunrise behind silent stone faces, this isolated island offers a deep, moving connection to history and nature.

Why go: To experience a place where ancient artistry and raw natural beauty meet in extraordinary isolation.

Tip: Head to Rano Raraku to walk among half-carved Moai and see where these giants were born from volcanic rock.

10. Punta Arenas

Nestled at the southern tip of Chile, Punta Arenas is a rugged city that offers a taste of life at the edge of the world. A hub for Antarctic expeditions, it is surrounded by windswept landscapes, historic landmarks, and a unique blend of cultures.

Wander through the charming streets to uncover the stories of explorers who braved the unknown, or take a moment at the beautifully eerie cemetery where many of the city’s early pioneers rest. For nature lovers, a short trip to Isla Magdalena reveals the chance to walk alongside thousands of Magellanic penguins, offering an unforgettable wildlife encounter.

Why go: It’s a true frontier city, perfect for those looking to explore Patagonia or experience the remote beauty of the southernmost reaches of the globe.

Tip: Be prepared for unpredictable weather—bring layers, as conditions can change in an instant, even during summer.

11. Coyhaique & Aysén Región

For travelers seeking untouched beauty and solitude, Chile’s Aysén Region offers a rare escape. The quiet town of Coyhaique serves as the gateway to this remote paradise, surrounded by dramatic fjords, towering mountains, and winding rivers.

Located along the less-visited Carretera Austral, this region is a haven for those craving pristine landscapes, from sparkling glacial lakes to forests that stretch as far as the eye can see. Fly-fishing enthusiasts, trekkers, and kayakers will find their paradise here, with the serene surroundings providing the perfect backdrop for adventure.

Why go: For a chance to immerse yourself in some of Chile’s most rugged and tranquil wilderness.

Tip: Renting a car is the best way to get around—public transportation is limited, and having your own vehicle lets you discover the area at your own pace.

12. Iquique

Iquique is where the desert meets the Pacific, offering sun-drenched beaches, historic charm, and adrenaline-pumping adventure. This coastal city in northern Chile is renowned for its surf culture, colonial architecture, and massive sand dunes, which are ideal for sandboarding.

The free-trade zone attracts shoppers, while nearby Humberstone offers a haunting glimpse into Chile’s nitrate mining past.

Why go: A vibrant mix of beach life, history, and extreme sports in the north.

Tip: Try paragliding off the coastal cliffs. The views over the ocean and city are unforgettable.

13. La Serena & Elqui Valley

La Serena, Chile’s second-oldest city, offers a mix of colonial history and easy access to the coast. But the real allure lies a short drive inland, in the Elqui Valley—a sun-drenched region known for its vineyards, tranquil landscapes, and mystical atmosphere.

Whether you’re touring a pisco distillery, hiking through the arid desert hills, or soaking in the serenity at a stargazing observatory, the valley provides a peaceful retreat with plenty of natural wonders. With over 300 clear nights each year, it’s one of the globe’s premier destinations for stargazing.

Why go: Ideal for those seeking a blend of relaxation, wine, and celestial marvels.

Tip: Don’t miss the chance to book a guided night tour at one of the observatories—the view of the Milky Way is truly otherworldly.

14. San Pedro de Atacama

Though it’s technically within the Atacama Desert, San Pedro deserves its own spotlight. This high-altitude adobe town serves as a base for exploring some of Chile’s most otherworldly landscapes, think geysers at sunrise, flamingo-filled salt flats, and rainbow-colored valleys.

San Pedro has a laid-back, traveler-friendly vibe with great food, boutique hotels, and local markets.

Why go: It’s the best place to go in Chile for exploring the desert’s extremes with comfort and culture.

Tip: Give yourself a day or two to acclimate to the altitude before heading on high-elevation tours.

15. Wine Valleys (Maipo, Casablanca & Colchagua)

Chile’s wine regions are a must-visit for any wine lover, offering a diverse range of flavors and stunning vineyard landscapes. The Maipo Valley, just outside Santiago, boasts some of the country’s oldest and most prestigious vineyards, while Casablanca Valley is renowned for its crisp, cool-climate whites like Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay.

Further south, Colchagua Valley stands out for its bold red wines, including Carménère and Cabernet Sauvignon. Touring these valleys offers more than just fine wine—it’s an immersive experience in a landscape of rolling hills and towering, snow-capped peaks.

Why go: For an unforgettable journey through some of Chile’s finest vineyards, where wine and scenery are equally exquisite.

Tip: Opt for a guided wine tour to make the most of your visit—many offer tastings, food pairings, and insider knowledge from local winemakers.