There are few places in the world who say I have completely lost my breath and lost my words. When I first started traveling at age 13, everywhere I went was an incredible adventure. But after so many trips in the last few years, I have become more and more selective in places I consider to be the “best” for something. But if you think you might travel to Chile, I can promise you it is worth your time. In fact, I think Chile is my favorite country in everything in South America.
Chile is the longest country in the world, spanning 2,610 miles from north to south. 80% of the country is covered in mountains. Not only for dramatic views, but also for amazing adventure activities! In addition to climbing the ski resorts in Mount Andean, and the volcano of Atacama, the world’s drier desert, there are plenty of world-famous hikes.
Chile, Atacama Desert
As the driest desert in the world, Atacama is a spectacular sight. As such, this is one of the most popular stops for travelers to Chile. Located in the north, it is extremely popular to combine a visit to Atacama with a visit to Salt Flat (Salade Uyuni) near nearby Bolivia.
read more: Visit the dryest places in the world.
Torres del Payne, Chile
Located south is Torres del Payne National Park, perhaps my favorite natural exhibit in the whole world.
read more: Hiking to French Valley, W Trek and Torres del Payne.
Easter Island, Chile
If there is a place that is more mysterious and charming like Easter Island, I would love to know about it. This mystical island is home to many myths and legends, and is an adventurous escape.
Bale Nevad, Andes Mountains, Chile
Do you fantasize about skiing and snowboarding? We drive to Mount Andean, just over an hour’s drive from Santiago’s Chilean capital.
read more: Andean Mountain Snowboarding.
Geiser Eltatio, Chile
When you’re in the Atacama Desert, say yes to travel all day. There’s so much to discover! It’s one of the earliest departure day trips (my mind somehow reminds me of the 5am alarm clock), but it’s worth it for you for a while!
read more: Exploring the Atacama Desert.
Santiago, Chile
…Because other capitals of the world are covered in snow-capped mountains! ?
read more: Top 6 Things to Do in Santiago.
Volcanic Hotels in Chile
Chile is full of active and inert volcanoes (many of which can be climbed – many opportunities in the Atacama Desert in the north) but will it be better than the volcanic hotels you can actually stay in? Probably not!
Grey Glacier, Chile
Back south there’s more to it than hiking. Often, the biggest part of hiking at Torres del Payne is the hiking itself and the surround challenges nearby, but the unrealistic views where you can enjoy the immediate vicinity of the double trekking and the area itself. This is a place where you can’t spend enough time. (Image: Marks Mayo).