Wherever your tastes may lie, Chile is sure to have an outdoor activity that will capture your attention. Thanks to its eclectic geography and its wide range of different climates, Chile boasts a truly incredible array of prime outdoor activities for people of all ages, sensibilities and levels of fitness. Whether you prefer sea kayaking, fly fishing, trekking, mountaineering, skiing or any other type of outdoor activity, there are sure to be plenty of opportunities to do it in Chile. Below, you can find information about enjoying various types of activities in this truly unforgettable South American country.

Photo Credit: Juan Anzola

Trekking Around

Chile’s national parks network is truly incredible. As a result, it’s easy to find well-maintained paths and other opportunities for hiking in safety. All the while, you’ll be able to take in many unforgettable views. In the north, Pan de Azucar National Park serves as the perfect gateway to the extremely arid Atacama Desert. In the south, you’ll find the world’s southernmost national park, the Cabo de Hornos National Park. Even far out at sea, at Easter Island, the Chilean national park system serves to impress; Rapa Nui National Park boasts plenty of mesmerizing trekking opportunities.

Photo Credit: Erik De Leon

Reach for the Stars: Mountaineering

If mountain climbing is your thing - and you’re looking for a real challenge - Chile will not disappoint. Indeed, approximately 80% of the country is covered by mountains. You never have to go very far in order to do some really invigorating mountain climbing. The Andes Mountains dominate the country of Chile, while a long network of cordilleras can be found along its extremely long coastline. Virtually anywhere you go in Chile, you’ll be able to see breathtaking vistas of snowcapped peaks. If the urge to climb up into them strikes, you’ll have plenty of chances to do so.

Photo Credit: Sergio R. Nuñez C.

Explore Fjords via Sea Kayak

Water sports of all kinds are popular in Chile, but one kind in particular really captures most people’s hearts: sea kayaking. Chile has compelling ties to the sea, thanks to its amazingly long coastline. While sea kayaking along the coast is great, there are even more exciting opportunities in the far south. Northern Patagonia, in particular, offers some unforgettable routes for those who are serious about sea kayaking. A bevy of archipelagos also makes for some interesting maneuvers by sea, so be sure to pinpoint the perfect spot.

Photo Credit: Simon Hallett

World-Class Fishing

Fishing has been a popular pastime in Chile for years. Fly fishing is especially popular; if you enjoy the sport, you will love what Chile has to offer. The country’s famous Lakes Region has ample opportunities to catch some amazing fish; down south, the waters of Patagonia make for some topnotch fly fishing. For an especially memorable experience, you should try fly fishing amongst the country’s breathtaking network of fjords. In terms of variety, the waters of Chile are teeming with many different types of fish. From delectable trout to savory salmon - and with plenty of unique species in between - Chile is a world-class fishing destination.

Photo Credit: Juan Carlos Labarca

Topnotch Winter Sports

Thanks to the many different mountains that dot the landscape, Chile is a natural place to engage in some amazing winter sports. From skiing to snow boarding, you can take your pick from a wide network of prime locales. In the heart of the Andes, a first-class resort like Valle Nevado is sure to keep you and your traveling companions busy. For those who don’t want to venture too far from Santiago, El Colorado ski resort is a prime choice. No matter where you do it, there’s nothing quite like snow boarding and skiing in Chile.

Photo Credit: Cyril Bèle

An Extreme Sport You've Never Heard of

In addition to the wide range of traditional sports activities that can be enjoyed in Chile, the country is a prime location for one exceptional extreme sport: canyoning. Although it is relatively unheard of, it’s the perfect option for those who want to press the envelope in terms of excitement. Basically, it involves jumping from high cliffs and making your way through various canyons in certain parts of the country. For adventurous types, it is the perfect way to top off a fun- and sports-filled time in this captivating country!