Top destinations to explore in Chile, from urban sophistication to breathtaking nature

With the majestic Andes rising to the east, the crashing Pacific to the west, stunning Patagonian fjords to the south, and vast deserts in the north, Chile offers a diverse natural playground that adventure enthusiasts long for.

This narrow South American nation is also home to lively cities, mysterious islands, and expansive vineyards featuring top-tier wineries. Below, we highlight 10 must-see locations.

1. San Pedro de Atacama

Prime gateway to the Atacama Desert

When the lush oasis of San Pedro emerges from the stark landscape of the Atacama Desert, it initially seems like a mirage. As you wander through the narrow lanes of this quaint adobe village, you discover that the slender chañar trees conceal a resort town that appeals to both affluent travelers and rugged backpackers alike.

Just outside of San Pedro, you’ll find otherworldly valleys, snow-capped peaks, towering sand dunes, ancient petroglyphs, steaming hot springs, and lagoons filled with flamingos. You could easily spend a week here without running out of things to do. For those who love to check off record-holders, don’t miss the highest geysers in the world and the largest ground-based astronomy facility.

Insider tip: Always consider altitude when planning your excursions, leaving attractions at higher elevations in the Andes (such as the El Tatio geysers) for the latter part of your stay.

2. Rapa Nui (Easter Island)

Top destination to explore Polynesian culture

This small volcanic island in the heart of the expansive Pacific Ocean boasts an impressive global reputation, primarily due to the 887 monumental human figures (known as moai) that stand watch over its crystal-clear waters. The enigma surrounding how the ancient Rapa Nui civilization constructed and transported these colossal statues has captivated visitors for generations.

However, the island offers more than just an open-air museum of ancient artifacts. You can enjoy an evening immersed in Polynesian music at a local dance performance, relax beneath the palm trees at Anakena Beach, and savor fresh tuna ceviche at Hanga Roa's restaurants—all perfectly positioned for stunning sunset views over the Pacific Ocean.

Insider tip: Plan for at least three days to explore the island, but ideally extend your stay to a full week to fully appreciate the archaeological sites, engage in snorkeling, swimming, and experience the vibrant Polynesian culture.

3. Santiago

Best destination for nightlife

Chile’s vibrant capital serves as a cultural hub, with its historic center showcasing top-notch museums, elegant theaters, and palm-lined squares. Notable districts for visitors include Barrio Yungay (known for street art), Barrio Italia (ideal for shopping), Lastarria (great for leisurely walks), Providencia (perfect for resting), and Vitacura (excellent for dining). As night falls, areas like Bellavista and Barrio Brasil come alive, with locals partying until dawn at clubs playing everything from Latin trap to K-pop, EDM, and Reggaeton.

Santiago serves as an excellent hub, offering a variety of activities just an hour from the city. You can experience whitewater rafting in Cajón del Maipo, enjoy Cabernet in the Maipo Valley, or hit the slopes at some of the finest ski resorts in the Southern Hemisphere.

Local tip: LGBTIQ+ travelers should check out Bombero Núñez street, filled with bars, clubs, and performance venues where drag queens keep the party going until the early hours. If you're planning to dance, remember: arriving before midnight is a no-go!

4. Pucón

Top destination for hiking and skiing on a volcano

For those seeking adventure, few places rival the range of experiences in Chile. This scenic resort village in the Lake District is one of South America's most enticing adventure hotspots. Thrill-seekers can don crampons to summit an active volcano or lace up their boots to ski back down. Leave behind city worries and hike among ancient araucaria trees atop the Andes, or relax in a hot spring nestled within a temperate rainforest. Rent a kayak to glide across a sparkling emerald lake to a secluded cabin, or tackle the whitewater rapids en route to a craft brewery. This area, deeply rooted in Mapuche culture, is also the ideal spot to immerse yourself in the traditions of Chile’s largest Indigenous community.

5. Valparaíso

Top spot for breathtaking views and vibrant street art

This quirky coastal city west of Santiago has a unique way of enchanting visitors (and throwing a wrench in their travel plans). Perhaps it’s the panoramic vistas from accommodations perched on the city’s 42 hills? Or the narrow streets lined with UNESCO-listed buildings adorned in colorful street art? Maybe it’s the century-old funiculars that whisk travelers into the sky? Whatever it may be, Valparaíso exudes a raw charm that can become surprisingly captivating.

Local tip: Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción are the most secure and pleasant hills to use as your base for exploring Valparaíso. They’re also the most vibrant, showcasing some of the city’s most stunning murals.

6. Aysén

Ideal destination for a true escape

If you have plenty of time and patience, the remote area of Aysén presents pristine landscapes and timeless towns that are disappearing in other parts of the world. There’s just one main road here, the Carretera Austral, much of which is unpaved, especially as you head further south. In some places, there’s no road at all, requiring a car ferry to continue your journey. This is the tradeoff for exploring the lesser-known parts of Patagonia, but the rewards are significant: expansive mountain ranges, deep fjords, lush rainforests, and immense ice fields adorned with sparkling glaciers.

7. The Colchagua Valley

Top destination for wine enthusiasts

No other wine region in Chile matches the prestige and tourist amenities of the Colchagua Valley. Located around the quaint city of Santa Cruz, approximately three hours south of Santiago, this area features numerous luxury resorts, gourmet dining options, and, of course, vineyards that cater to wine aficionados from around the globe. The wineries themselves are architectural marvels, ranging from majestic columned estates to modern glass tasting rooms adorned with priceless artwork. Colchagua is renowned for its red wines, particularly Carmenere and Cabernet Sauvignon, while many wineries also offer white varieties sourced from their coastal vineyards.

8. Chiloé

Top destination for mythology and folklore

Did you know that the potato originates from this unique, peanut-shaped island off northern Patagonia? Culinary tourism centered around the island's vibrant native potatoes flourishes in Castro, the capital, renowned for its picturesque stilt houses known as palafitos.

However, potatoes aren't the only draw. Explore coastal trails leading to secluded beaches, visit UNESCO-listed wooden churches, or immerse yourself in the island’s rich mythology featuring ghost ships and forest gnomes.

9. Parque Nacional Torres del Paine

Top destination for hiking

A quick search for Patagonia images will reveal that many are taken in this stunning national park in southern Chile, known for its iconic granite towers that symbolize the entire region. Most visitors come to hike the renowned five-day W Trek or stay in luxurious all-inclusive lodges offering guided adventures. With massive glaciers, shimmering turquoise lakes, and the world's highest concentration of pumas, you'll never run out of stunning sights here.

Local tip: For those looking to stray from the usual trails, adventurous hikers might want to explore the Dientes Circuit on Isla Navarino, a remote 53km (33-mile) trek that's the southernmost hiking circuit on the planet.

10. The Elqui Valley

Top spot for stargazing and pisco

This lush valley on the southern edge of the Atacama Desert is the heart of Chile’s pisco production, featuring several distilleries where you can dive into the world of this cherished brandy (and enjoy a few sours). You'll also find craft breweries and charming wineries for gathering goodies for sunlit picnics by the Elqui River. As night falls, this International Dark Sky Sanctuary reveals some of the clearest skies on the planet. Many hotels provide glass roofs and telescopes, allowing you to explore the cosmos just like leading astronomers do at the Valley’s high-tech observatories.

Local tip: Situated at an altitude of 1650 to 2206 meters (5413-7237 ft), Viñedos de Alcohuaz ranks among Chile's highest wineries. Here, you'll find innovative and stunning wines, all served in a Bond-esque underground tasting room.