Top 8 family activities in Chile

What could excite a child more than volcanoes spewing smoke, crackling glaciers, lush rainforests, and dazzling white salt flats?

Chile is a geological marvel, featuring the world's driest desert, the clearest skies, and the tallest mountains outside the Himalayas. At its core are vibrant cities filled with top-notch museums and expansive parks that are enjoyable for both kids and adults. With a little patience – and some basic Spanish – this slender South American nation offers a fantastic backdrop for a family adventure. Here’s what you should know about traveling with family in Chile.

Is Chile suitable for kids?

While Chile might not be widely recognized as a child-friendly destination, like many Latin American countries, it has a strong focus on family values. Multigenerational trips are typical among local travelers, with grandparents often joining their children and grandchildren. Consequently, families visiting from abroad will find a warm welcome, along with numerous dining and accommodation options tailored to their needs.

Generally, parents traveling with kids – including expectant mothers – can expect priority seating on public transport. Young people typically offer their seats to those who are pregnant or with children. Almost every park or plaza in Chile features a playground, and many restaurants provide special menus for kids. If you visit during the summer (January and February) or the winter school break (July), you'll discover fairs, regional events, and museum exhibits specifically designed for vacationing schoolchildren.

A significant challenge in Chile is that few places – aside from larger or internationally-operated hotels – have English-speaking staff or provide information in English. However, many families view this as a chance to introduce their children to a second language.

What are the best locations in Chile for kids?

When traveling as a family in Chile, it’s often best to stick to well-known destinations, as these are typically the most accommodating for children. Santiago, home to a third of the country's population, offers an abundance of family-friendly attractions. However, world-class locations like Parque Nacional Torres del Paine in Patagonia, San Pedro de Atacama in the northern desert, and Rapa Nui (Easter Island) in the remote Pacific also welcome families. Another lesser-known gem that is extremely popular among Chilean families is the Lakes District, filled with hot springs, dense forests, and enchanting accommodations.

Top activities in Chile for babies and toddlers

Explore a fairy-tale wonderland in the Chilean rainforest

Imagine a hotel designed like a Christmas tree at the end of a wooden boardwalk leading to another hotel resembling a pinecone. This whimsical scenery awaits you at Huilo Huilo, a private 1000-sq-km (386-sq-mile) biological reserve nestled beneath the volcanoes of Chile’s southern Lakes District.

The enchanting atmosphere of this forested resort features fairy-tale elements, from the elf-like creatures depicted on park signs to the surreal architecture throughout. During the day, you can trek easy trails leading to spectacular waterfalls or engage in hands-on art experiences with local artisans. In the evening, parents can relax at the on-site craft brewery.

Take a ride to the summit of Santiago’s expansive urban park

A trip to the top of Santiago’s Parque Metropolitano is a quintessential experience, providing breathtaking views of the city and the Andes Mountains rising in the background. You can reach the peak via a charming 100-year-old funicular or a modern cable car, both of which are sure to delight toddlers. Once you arrive, don’t miss out on trying a mote con huesillo, a beloved Chilean delicacy made of peach juice and husked wheat berries. As you stroll back down the hill, you’ll encounter several imaginative playgrounds, including the fantastic Plaza de Juegos Gabriela Mistral, along with summertime pools, shaded picnic areas, and a small zoo.

Top activities in Chile for families

Unravel the enigmas of Rapa Nui

Few places on Earth are as rich in legends and enigmas as Rapa Nui (Easter Island), home to nearly 900 iconic monolithic heads called moai. Most of these incredible statues are found at archaeological sites just a short walk from the island's main roads, so there’s no need for long hikes unless you decide to scale one of the dormant volcanoes—a relatively easy half-day trek that energetic kids might enjoy. In the evenings, families can engage in Rapa Nui body painting or attend various Polynesian dance performances.

Explore Santiago’s numerous children’s museums

Santiago boasts a wealth of children’s museums that many international visitors may not know about. Aspiring young artists should visit Museo Artequin, an interactive art museum set in a stunning cast-iron building that served as Chile’s pavilion during the 1889 Paris World’s Fair. For more hands-on experiences, check out Museo Interactivo Las Condes, which features constantly changing audiovisual exhibits, or Museo Interactivo Mirador, an entertaining and educational science museum. Centro Cultural La Moneda, located beneath the presidential palace, is another fantastic option for families, featuring seven gallery spaces focused on educational programs. Keep in mind that while the exhibits are visually engaging, most signs are in Spanish.

Take the kids for a skiing adventure in the Andes

If your family enjoys ski vacations back home, consider doing the same during the winter months in Chile! Some resort hotels, like Hotel Termas Chillan at the Nevados de Chillan ski center, offer complimentary daycare for young children and afternoon kids' club activities—all included in the nightly rate. Additionally, most ski resorts have at least one English-speaking instructor available for daily lessons.

Get ready for fun at Fantasilandia

While it may not rival the vast and cutting-edge theme parks found in Asia, the Middle East, or the US, Fantasilandia is much more budget-friendly and a must-visit for any child who loves roller coasters and thrilling rides. With 40 unique attractions—including a dozen exhilarating carnival rides—you can easily spend a whole day enjoying the park. Plus, it’s conveniently located right in Santiago, making it an easy addition to your itinerary.

Top activities for tweens and teens in Chile

Embark on a hike in Patagonia

Visitors often link Parque Nacional Torres del Paine—Chile’s most famous national park—with its renowned 5-day W Trek, which offers views of calving glaciers, vibrant turquoise lagoons, and towering granite peaks. However, there are also numerous half-day and full-day hikes suitable for the entire family, including portions of the W Trek itself. Despite its remoteness, no other area in Chilean Patagonia boasts such extensive tourist infrastructure, making it an ideal destination for adventurous families.

Discover the world’s driest nonpolar desert

Do you know any teenagers eager to leap down massive sand dunes and float in tranquil salt lakes while gazing at the clearest skies? If so, San Pedro de Atacama might be the perfect spot. This charming Andean resort town is situated in the world's driest nonpolar desert and offers a week’s worth of attractions nearby, including a lunar-like 'Moon Valley' renowned for its stunning sunsets, cliffs adorned with ancient petroglyphs, and bubbling geysers from Earth's highest geothermal complex. A trip here promises both educational value and thrilling adventure.

Essential tips for traveling in Chile with children

Renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, Chile encourages families to include at least one outdoor adventure in their travel plans. Glamping has gained popularity here, offering a wonderful blend of comfort, affordability, and immersion in nature. In urban areas, many attractions offer free entry for young children or reduced rates alongside adult tickets. Additionally, numerous large hotels or resorts may provide complimentary babysitting services or organized kids' activities, although these are typically conducted in Spanish.

While the majority of travel in Chile is done by car, bus, or plane, a new high-speed train service—the fastest in South America—is set to enhance travel through the Central Valley between Santiago and Chillán by late 2023, providing an exciting option for train enthusiasts of all ages. Keep an eye out for more train services in the future, as the country invests significantly in its rail system.