Chile Travel Guide

Plaza de Armas

The Plaza de Armas is both the heart of Santiago and the historical center, a square hemmed in by impressive Spanish colonial public buildings, including the 18th-century Cathedral and elaborate main post office that was once the Spanish governors' residence. The square became the hub of administrative, commercial and social life when the city was founded in 1541 and today it remains the center of life in the city. Never a dull place to be by day with its constant activity and throngs of people entertained by buskers and local artists, the evenings are just as lively when passers-by can become embroiled in chess games on temporary tables set up under the trees.

Chilean Museum of Pre-Colombian Art

Spanning 4,500 years and about 80 pre-Colombian civilizations of South America the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino (Chilean Museum of Pre-Colombian Art) is a fascinating place to spend a few hours. Located in the old Royal Customs House, the exhibit displays are well lit and beautifully arranged throughout four rooms set around a central courtyard. The collection provides an informative insight into the cultures of the Incas, Mayans, Aztecs and other once proud civilizations of the continent, illustrating their artistic diversity.

Mercado Central

Santiago's colorful Mercado Central, housed in an 1872 wrought iron structure, has a fruit and vegetable market as well as a buzzing fish market where an assortment of glistening fish is packed onto the tables. Mussels, oysters and clams sit in buckets among an unidentifiable variety of crustaceans and tentacled creatures. The fishmongers demonstrate their skill at gutting and filleting amid a cacophony of frenzied buying. The best time to visit is at lunchtime when a delicious sampling of the wares can be enjoyed in the happily chaotic atmosphere of the central hall.

Cerro San Cristóbal

Cerro San Cristóbal is a 2,752-foot (860m) hill jutting out of the city and on a clear day affords magnificent views of the surrounds and across to the Andes. The easiest way to the top is by funicular, but there is also a teleférico (cable car), bus or a path leading up from the bottom through the forested slopes. There are many walkways and at the summit is the 70-foot (22m) high statue of the Virgin Mary to mark where the Pope held a mass in 1987. There is also a small zoo, picnic sites and an outdoor swimming pool. The cerro is situated within the Santiago's biggest open space, Parque Metropolitano, and is a peaceful place, an escape from the never-ending noise of traffic in the city below.

Reserva Nacional Los Flamencos

Within the Reserva Nacional Los Flamencos is the Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon), a surreal landscape of salt peaks formed by uplifted lake sediments that have been shaped into dramatic formations by wind erosion. With a surreal blend of pastel colors the valley is even more enchanting at sunset. A striking feature of northern Chile's geography is the shimmering and apparently endless salt lakes that are home to many bird species. The Salar de Atacama in the reserve has a lagoon, Laguna Chaxa, which supports three species of flamingos as well as other bird life. The salt lake also affords good views of the volcanoes in the Andean chain of mountains on the near distant altiplano.

El Tatio Geysers

At an altitude of 13,760 feet (4,300m), El Tatio is one of the world's highest geyser fields. Best viewed at sunrise when there are changes in atmospheric pressure, the steaming fumaroles are spectacular, shooting up clouds of steam 35 feet (112m) into the air. Mineral deposits left behind after the evaporation of the boiling water have formed other interesting structures on the thin crust of the geyser field. It is also possible to bathe in the hot geyser water in a small pool, however parts of the field are very dangerous with only a thin crust over nearly boiling mud so it is always a good idea to visit the geysers with a knowledgeable guide.

Parque Nacional Chiloé

Following in the footsteps of Darwin after 150 years, the visitor will find an isolated but wildly beautiful assortment of rolling hills, native forests and pristine coastline in Parque Nacional Chiloé. It is home to the Chilote fox, the rare pudú (miniature deer) and over 100 species of birds, including the Magellanic penguin. The park offers a variety of walking trails, through forests and under twisted tepú trees, along miles of unspoiled coastline or along nature trails that lead up onto the hills for superb views of the surrounds. One of the draws of the hiking trails in Chiloé is the wide selection of short hikes, making it a good activity even for visitors who aren't in the best shape. The park is also home to several Huilliche Indian communities. The information center at the entrance has good displays on the flora, fauna and the traditions and folklore of the Huilliche people.

Parque Nacional Torres del Paine

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the 180,000-hectare (442-acre) park is the pride and joy of southern Chile. The park takes its name after the towering granite pillars that rise over 6,560 feet (2,000m) above the Patagonian plains. It is a hiker's paradise with many excellent, well-developed trails through astounding changes in scenery. Turquoise lakes and roaring waterfalls, forests and magnificent rambling glaciers, icy rivers, daisy-filled meadows, harsh mountain passes and plenty of wildlife, including the protected guanaco (wild relative of the llama), are some of its attractions, while visitors can try their hand at outdoor activities like horseback riding, sailing and kayaking, rock climbing and fly-fishing.

Parque Nacional Laguna San Rafael

Created in 1959, Parque Nacional Laguna San Rafael covers an area of 6,726 square miles (17,420 sq km) and includes the Northern Patagonian Ice Field. It was named for the San Rafael Lagoon that was created by the retreat of the San Rafael Glacier, and has been designated a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. A fjord more than 10 miles (16km) long is one of the park's principle attractions, along with some of the highest peaks in Patagonia, several glaciers, lakes and a rich variety of bird and sea life. While the majority of visitors to Laguna San Rafael never set foot on land, the magificent views from the boat are such that will stay with you for a lifetime.

Castro

Castro is the main town on Chiloé Island, famous for its colorful rows of palafitos (stilted houses) lining the estuaries, excellent seafood and traditional handicrafts. With an eclectic blend of Chilote culture and modern development, Castro is a popular summer destination for Chilean and Argentinean tourists and has a laid back holiday feel to it. One of the town's most interesting features is the San Francisco Church, painted in dazzling pastel colors. The town itself is full of interesting sights however, including craft markets, the regional museum, and the MAM Gallery. There are a range of restaurants and shops, and a few bars and clubs to keep the fun going at night. The town also provides access to the nearby islands of the Chiloé archipelago and the Parque Nacional Chiloé.

Puerto Montt

Capital of the Lake District, Puerto Montt is the embarkation point for stunning cruises to the fjords of the glacial Chilean coastline and is the gateway to the island of Chiloé and Chilean Patagonia. Its architecture is Middle European with unique wooden designs and predominantly high-pitched roofs and ornate balconies. Many of the older, traditional houses can be spotted with their distinct patchwork of weather resistant shingles, made from the Alcerce Tree. Puerto Montt has a marvelous craft market, a good place to buy Chiloén handicrafts, and the outstanding seafood is not to be missed. Well worth a visit, too, is the local cathedral, with its large rosary made from fishnet floats above the confessional.

Chilean Tierra del Fuego

At the very tip of Patagonia, beyond Chile and even South America, lies the archipelago of Tierra del Fuego, whose name translates to 'Land of Fire'. It's a dramatic name for a dramatic place, as the harsh winds of the sub-polar climate sweep over rocky mountains, sparse tundra, and hardy forests. Tierra del Fuego is an increasingly popular ecotravel destination, and adventurous travelers come to see wildlife that includes sea lions, foxes, condors, owls, and firecrown hummingbirds. Hiking and camping are popular activities, and the archipelago offers some of the best trout fishing in South America.

Much of the tourism in Tierra del Fuego revolves around 'southernmost' things: the port town of Puerto Williams claims to be the southernmost city in the world, while the southernmost cathedral and temple are located in Punta Arenas. While Cape Horn is widely thought to be the southernmost island in South America, that title actually goes to The Diego Ramírez Islands, which are nesting grounds for many species of southern seabirds, including albatross, penguins and petrels.

Magdalena Island Penguin Reserve

A paradise for birdwatchers, Magdalena Island Penguin Reserve is located 21.7 miles (35km) south of Punta Arenas. Magdalena Island is a natural bird sanctuary, and is home to more than 100,000 birds, including 95 percent of the world's population of Magellanic Penguins as well as cormorants and seagulls. Because it is a sanctuary, the only facilities on Magdalena Island are for scientific research and not tourism. Guided tours are available to see the penguins in their natural habitat, and the lighthouse at the Environmental Interpretation Center provides stunning panoramic views of the region. There are ferries available from Puntas Arenas, which take approximately two hours each way and provide snacks and coffee.

Wine Country

Chilean wine enjoys a good reputation with sommeliers all around the world, with its popularity soaring in the last decade. Central Chile's Mediterranean climate is ideal for vineyards, and some of the best wine comes from the Central Valley, around Santiago. Wine tasting tours are a popular attraction in Santiago, and there are many wineries to choose from. Valle de Maipo, Valle de Casablanca and Valle de San Antonio are the closest to the city, and there are nearly 30 wineries alone in Valle de Maipo. Wine country in Chile stretches for many miles along the coast however, from Valle de Elqui in the north to Valle de Malleco in the south.

Wine country is an especially beautiful region in the summer, and it is possible to hire bicycles to tour the area. Some groups of wineries have banded together to offer established tours along 'wine routes', of which the Colchagua Valley is the most popular. Many tour operators in Santiago offer wine tasting packages as well.

Plaza de Armas

The Plaza de Armas is both the heart of Santiago and the historical center, a square hemmed in by impressive Spanish colonial public buildings, including the 18th-century Cathedral and elaborate main post office that was once the Spanish governors' residence. The square became the hub of administrative, commercial and social life when the city was founded in 1541 and today it remains the center of life in the city. Never a dull place to be by day with its constant activity and throngs of people entertained by buskers and local artists, the evenings are just as lively when passers-by can become embroiled in chess games on temporary tables set up under the trees.

Chilean Museum of Pre-Colombian Art

Spanning 4,500 years and about 80 pre-Colombian civilizations of South America the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino (Chilean Museum of Pre-Colombian Art) is a fascinating place to spend a few hours. Located in the old Royal Customs House, the exhibit displays are well lit and beautifully arranged throughout four rooms set around a central courtyard. The collection provides an informative insight into the cultures of the Incas, Mayans, Aztecs and other once proud civilizations of the continent, illustrating their artistic diversity.

Mercado Central

Santiago's colorful Mercado Central, housed in an 1872 wrought iron structure, has a fruit and vegetable market as well as a buzzing fish market where an assortment of glistening fish is packed onto the tables. Mussels, oysters and clams sit in buckets among an unidentifiable variety of crustaceans and tentacled creatures. The fishmongers demonstrate their skill at gutting and filleting amid a cacophony of frenzied buying. The best time to visit is at lunchtime when a delicious sampling of the wares can be enjoyed in the happily chaotic atmosphere of the central hall.

Cerro San Cristóbal

Cerro San Cristóbal is a 2,752-foot (860m) hill jutting out of the city and on a clear day affords magnificent views of the surrounds and across to the Andes. The easiest way to the top is by funicular, but there is also a teleférico (cable car), bus or a path leading up from the bottom through the forested slopes. There are many walkways and at the summit is the 70-foot (22m) high statue of the Virgin Mary to mark where the Pope held a mass in 1987. There is also a small zoo, picnic sites and an outdoor swimming pool. The cerro is situated within the Santiago's biggest open space, Parque Metropolitano, and is a peaceful place, an escape from the never-ending noise of traffic in the city below.

Reserva Nacional Los Flamencos

Within the Reserva Nacional Los Flamencos is the Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon), a surreal landscape of salt peaks formed by uplifted lake sediments that have been shaped into dramatic formations by wind erosion. With a surreal blend of pastel colors the valley is even more enchanting at sunset. A striking feature of northern Chile's geography is the shimmering and apparently endless salt lakes that are home to many bird species. The Salar de Atacama in the reserve has a lagoon, Laguna Chaxa, which supports three species of flamingos as well as other bird life. The salt lake also affords good views of the volcanoes in the Andean chain of mountains on the near distant altiplano.

El Tatio Geysers

At an altitude of 13,760 feet (4,300m), El Tatio is one of the world's highest geyser fields. Best viewed at sunrise when there are changes in atmospheric pressure, the steaming fumaroles are spectacular, shooting up clouds of steam 35 feet (112m) into the air. Mineral deposits left behind after the evaporation of the boiling water have formed other interesting structures on the thin crust of the geyser field. It is also possible to bathe in the hot geyser water in a small pool, however parts of the field are very dangerous with only a thin crust over nearly boiling mud so it is always a good idea to visit the geysers with a knowledgeable guide.

Parque Nacional Chiloé

Following in the footsteps of Darwin after 150 years, the visitor will find an isolated but wildly beautiful assortment of rolling hills, native forests and pristine coastline in Parque Nacional Chiloé. It is home to the Chilote fox, the rare pudú (miniature deer) and over 100 species of birds, including the Magellanic penguin. The park offers a variety of walking trails, through forests and under twisted tepú trees, along miles of unspoiled coastline or along nature trails that lead up onto the hills for superb views of the surrounds. One of the draws of the hiking trails in Chiloé is the wide selection of short hikes, making it a good activity even for visitors who aren't in the best shape. The park is also home to several Huilliche Indian communities. The information center at the entrance has good displays on the flora, fauna and the traditions and folklore of the Huilliche people.

Parque Nacional Torres del Paine

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the 180,000-hectare (442-acre) park is the pride and joy of southern Chile. The park takes its name after the towering granite pillars that rise over 6,560 feet (2,000m) above the Patagonian plains. It is a hiker's paradise with many excellent, well-developed trails through astounding changes in scenery. Turquoise lakes and roaring waterfalls, forests and magnificent rambling glaciers, icy rivers, daisy-filled meadows, harsh mountain passes and plenty of wildlife, including the protected guanaco (wild relative of the llama), are some of its attractions, while visitors can try their hand at outdoor activities like horseback riding, sailing and kayaking, rock climbing and fly-fishing.

Parque Nacional Laguna San Rafael

Created in 1959, Parque Nacional Laguna San Rafael covers an area of 6,726 square miles (17,420 sq km) and includes the Northern Patagonian Ice Field. It was named for the San Rafael Lagoon that was created by the retreat of the San Rafael Glacier, and has been designated a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. A fjord more than 10 miles (16km) long is one of the park's principle attractions, along with some of the highest peaks in Patagonia, several glaciers, lakes and a rich variety of bird and sea life. While the majority of visitors to Laguna San Rafael never set foot on land, the magificent views from the boat are such that will stay with you for a lifetime.

Castro

Castro is the main town on Chiloé Island, famous for its colorful rows of palafitos (stilted houses) lining the estuaries, excellent seafood and traditional handicrafts. With an eclectic blend of Chilote culture and modern development, Castro is a popular summer destination for Chilean and Argentinean tourists and has a laid back holiday feel to it. One of the town's most interesting features is the San Francisco Church, painted in dazzling pastel colors. The town itself is full of interesting sights however, including craft markets, the regional museum, and the MAM Gallery. There are a range of restaurants and shops, and a few bars and clubs to keep the fun going at night. The town also provides access to the nearby islands of the Chiloé archipelago and the Parque Nacional Chiloé.

Puerto Montt

Capital of the Lake District, Puerto Montt is the embarkation point for stunning cruises to the fjords of the glacial Chilean coastline and is the gateway to the island of Chiloé and Chilean Patagonia. Its architecture is Middle European with unique wooden designs and predominantly high-pitched roofs and ornate balconies. Many of the older, traditional houses can be spotted with their distinct patchwork of weather resistant shingles, made from the Alcerce Tree. Puerto Montt has a marvelous craft market, a good place to buy Chiloén handicrafts, and the outstanding seafood is not to be missed. Well worth a visit, too, is the local cathedral, with its large rosary made from fishnet floats above the confessional.

Chilean Tierra del Fuego

At the very tip of Patagonia, beyond Chile and even South America, lies the archipelago of Tierra del Fuego, whose name translates to 'Land of Fire'. It's a dramatic name for a dramatic place, as the harsh winds of the sub-polar climate sweep over rocky mountains, sparse tundra, and hardy forests. Tierra del Fuego is an increasingly popular ecotravel destination, and adventurous travelers come to see wildlife that includes sea lions, foxes, condors, owls, and firecrown hummingbirds. Hiking and camping are popular activities, and the archipelago offers some of the best trout fishing in South America.

Much of the tourism in Tierra del Fuego revolves around 'southernmost' things: the port town of Puerto Williams claims to be the southernmost city in the world, while the southernmost cathedral and temple are located in Punta Arenas. While Cape Horn is widely thought to be the southernmost island in South America, that title actually goes to The Diego Ramírez Islands, which are nesting grounds for many species of southern seabirds, including albatross, penguins and petrels.

Magdalena Island Penguin Reserve

A paradise for birdwatchers, Magdalena Island Penguin Reserve is located 21.7 miles (35km) south of Punta Arenas. Magdalena Island is a natural bird sanctuary, and is home to more than 100,000 birds, including 95 percent of the world's population of Magellanic Penguins as well as cormorants and seagulls. Because it is a sanctuary, the only facilities on Magdalena Island are for scientific research and not tourism. Guided tours are available to see the penguins in their natural habitat, and the lighthouse at the Environmental Interpretation Center provides stunning panoramic views of the region. There are ferries available from Puntas Arenas, which take approximately two hours each way and provide snacks and coffee.

Wine Country

Chilean wine enjoys a good reputation with sommeliers all around the world, with its popularity soaring in the last decade. Central Chile's Mediterranean climate is ideal for vineyards, and some of the best wine comes from the Central Valley, around Santiago. Wine tasting tours are a popular attraction in Santiago, and there are many wineries to choose from. Valle de Maipo, Valle de Casablanca and Valle de San Antonio are the closest to the city, and there are nearly 30 wineries alone in Valle de Maipo. Wine country in Chile stretches for many miles along the coast however, from Valle de Elqui in the north to Valle de Malleco in the south.

Wine country is an especially beautiful region in the summer, and it is possible to hire bicycles to tour the area. Some groups of wineries have banded together to offer established tours along 'wine routes', of which the Colchagua Valley is the most popular. Many tour operators in Santiago offer wine tasting packages as well.

Plaza de Armas

The Plaza de Armas is both the heart of Santiago and the historical center, a square hemmed in by impressive Spanish colonial public buildings, including the 18th-century Cathedral and elaborate main post office that was once the Spanish governors' residence. The square became the hub of administrative, commercial and social life when the city was founded in 1541 and today it remains the center of life in the city. Never a dull place to be by day with its constant activity and throngs of people entertained by buskers and local artists, the evenings are just as lively when passers-by can become embroiled in chess games on temporary tables set up under the trees.

Chilean Museum of Pre-Colombian Art

Spanning 4,500 years and about 80 pre-Colombian civilizations of South America the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino (Chilean Museum of Pre-Colombian Art) is a fascinating place to spend a few hours. Located in the old Royal Customs House, the exhibit displays are well lit and beautifully arranged throughout four rooms set around a central courtyard. The collection provides an informative insight into the cultures of the Incas, Mayans, Aztecs and other once proud civilizations of the continent, illustrating their artistic diversity.

Mercado Central

Santiago's colorful Mercado Central, housed in an 1872 wrought iron structure, has a fruit and vegetable market as well as a buzzing fish market where an assortment of glistening fish is packed onto the tables. Mussels, oysters and clams sit in buckets among an unidentifiable variety of crustaceans and tentacled creatures. The fishmongers demonstrate their skill at gutting and filleting amid a cacophony of frenzied buying. The best time to visit is at lunchtime when a delicious sampling of the wares can be enjoyed in the happily chaotic atmosphere of the central hall.

Cerro San Cristóbal

Cerro San Cristóbal is a 2,752-foot (860m) hill jutting out of the city and on a clear day affords magnificent views of the surrounds and across to the Andes. The easiest way to the top is by funicular, but there is also a teleférico (cable car), bus or a path leading up from the bottom through the forested slopes. There are many walkways and at the summit is the 70-foot (22m) high statue of the Virgin Mary to mark where the Pope held a mass in 1987. There is also a small zoo, picnic sites and an outdoor swimming pool. The cerro is situated within the Santiago's biggest open space, Parque Metropolitano, and is a peaceful place, an escape from the never-ending noise of traffic in the city below.

Reserva Nacional Los Flamencos

Within the Reserva Nacional Los Flamencos is the Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon), a surreal landscape of salt peaks formed by uplifted lake sediments that have been shaped into dramatic formations by wind erosion. With a surreal blend of pastel colors the valley is even more enchanting at sunset. A striking feature of northern Chile's geography is the shimmering and apparently endless salt lakes that are home to many bird species. The Salar de Atacama in the reserve has a lagoon, Laguna Chaxa, which supports three species of flamingos as well as other bird life. The salt lake also affords good views of the volcanoes in the Andean chain of mountains on the near distant altiplano.

El Tatio Geysers

At an altitude of 13,760 feet (4,300m), El Tatio is one of the world's highest geyser fields. Best viewed at sunrise when there are changes in atmospheric pressure, the steaming fumaroles are spectacular, shooting up clouds of steam 35 feet (112m) into the air. Mineral deposits left behind after the evaporation of the boiling water have formed other interesting structures on the thin crust of the geyser field. It is also possible to bathe in the hot geyser water in a small pool, however parts of the field are very dangerous with only a thin crust over nearly boiling mud so it is always a good idea to visit the geysers with a knowledgeable guide.

Parque Nacional Chiloé

Following in the footsteps of Darwin after 150 years, the visitor will find an isolated but wildly beautiful assortment of rolling hills, native forests and pristine coastline in Parque Nacional Chiloé. It is home to the Chilote fox, the rare pudú (miniature deer) and over 100 species of birds, including the Magellanic penguin. The park offers a variety of walking trails, through forests and under twisted tepú trees, along miles of unspoiled coastline or along nature trails that lead up onto the hills for superb views of the surrounds. One of the draws of the hiking trails in Chiloé is the wide selection of short hikes, making it a good activity even for visitors who aren't in the best shape. The park is also home to several Huilliche Indian communities. The information center at the entrance has good displays on the flora, fauna and the traditions and folklore of the Huilliche people.

Parque Nacional Torres del Paine

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the 180,000-hectare (442-acre) park is the pride and joy of southern Chile. The park takes its name after the towering granite pillars that rise over 6,560 feet (2,000m) above the Patagonian plains. It is a hiker's paradise with many excellent, well-developed trails through astounding changes in scenery. Turquoise lakes and roaring waterfalls, forests and magnificent rambling glaciers, icy rivers, daisy-filled meadows, harsh mountain passes and plenty of wildlife, including the protected guanaco (wild relative of the llama), are some of its attractions, while visitors can try their hand at outdoor activities like horseback riding, sailing and kayaking, rock climbing and fly-fishing.

Parque Nacional Laguna San Rafael

Created in 1959, Parque Nacional Laguna San Rafael covers an area of 6,726 square miles (17,420 sq km) and includes the Northern Patagonian Ice Field. It was named for the San Rafael Lagoon that was created by the retreat of the San Rafael Glacier, and has been designated a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. A fjord more than 10 miles (16km) long is one of the park's principle attractions, along with some of the highest peaks in Patagonia, several glaciers, lakes and a rich variety of bird and sea life. While the majority of visitors to Laguna San Rafael never set foot on land, the magificent views from the boat are such that will stay with you for a lifetime.

Castro

Castro is the main town on Chiloé Island, famous for its colorful rows of palafitos (stilted houses) lining the estuaries, excellent seafood and traditional handicrafts. With an eclectic blend of Chilote culture and modern development, Castro is a popular summer destination for Chilean and Argentinean tourists and has a laid back holiday feel to it. One of the town's most interesting features is the San Francisco Church, painted in dazzling pastel colors. The town itself is full of interesting sights however, including craft markets, the regional museum, and the MAM Gallery. There are a range of restaurants and shops, and a few bars and clubs to keep the fun going at night. The town also provides access to the nearby islands of the Chiloé archipelago and the Parque Nacional Chiloé.

Puerto Montt

Capital of the Lake District, Puerto Montt is the embarkation point for stunning cruises to the fjords of the glacial Chilean coastline and is the gateway to the island of Chiloé and Chilean Patagonia. Its architecture is Middle European with unique wooden designs and predominantly high-pitched roofs and ornate balconies. Many of the older, traditional houses can be spotted with their distinct patchwork of weather resistant shingles, made from the Alcerce Tree. Puerto Montt has a marvelous craft market, a good place to buy Chiloén handicrafts, and the outstanding seafood is not to be missed. Well worth a visit, too, is the local cathedral, with its large rosary made from fishnet floats above the confessional.

Chilean Tierra del Fuego

At the very tip of Patagonia, beyond Chile and even South America, lies the archipelago of Tierra del Fuego, whose name translates to 'Land of Fire'. It's a dramatic name for a dramatic place, as the harsh winds of the sub-polar climate sweep over rocky mountains, sparse tundra, and hardy forests. Tierra del Fuego is an increasingly popular ecotravel destination, and adventurous travelers come to see wildlife that includes sea lions, foxes, condors, owls, and firecrown hummingbirds. Hiking and camping are popular activities, and the archipelago offers some of the best trout fishing in South America.

Much of the tourism in Tierra del Fuego revolves around 'southernmost' things: the port town of Puerto Williams claims to be the southernmost city in the world, while the southernmost cathedral and temple are located in Punta Arenas. While Cape Horn is widely thought to be the southernmost island in South America, that title actually goes to The Diego Ramírez Islands, which are nesting grounds for many species of southern seabirds, including albatross, penguins and petrels.

Magdalena Island Penguin Reserve

A paradise for birdwatchers, Magdalena Island Penguin Reserve is located 21.7 miles (35km) south of Punta Arenas. Magdalena Island is a natural bird sanctuary, and is home to more than 100,000 birds, including 95 percent of the world's population of Magellanic Penguins as well as cormorants and seagulls. Because it is a sanctuary, the only facilities on Magdalena Island are for scientific research and not tourism. Guided tours are available to see the penguins in their natural habitat, and the lighthouse at the Environmental Interpretation Center provides stunning panoramic views of the region. There are ferries available from Puntas Arenas, which take approximately two hours each way and provide snacks and coffee.

Wine Country

Chilean wine enjoys a good reputation with sommeliers all around the world, with its popularity soaring in the last decade. Central Chile's Mediterranean climate is ideal for vineyards, and some of the best wine comes from the Central Valley, around Santiago. Wine tasting tours are a popular attraction in Santiago, and there are many wineries to choose from. Valle de Maipo, Valle de Casablanca and Valle de San Antonio are the closest to the city, and there are nearly 30 wineries alone in Valle de Maipo. Wine country in Chile stretches for many miles along the coast however, from Valle de Elqui in the north to Valle de Malleco in the south.

Wine country is an especially beautiful region in the summer, and it is possible to hire bicycles to tour the area. Some groups of wineries have banded together to offer established tours along 'wine routes', of which the Colchagua Valley is the most popular. Many tour operators in Santiago offer wine tasting packages as well.

Plaza de Armas

The Plaza de Armas is both the heart of Santiago and the historical center, a square hemmed in by impressive Spanish colonial public buildings, including the 18th-century Cathedral and elaborate main post office that was once the Spanish governors' residence. The square became the hub of administrative, commercial and social life when the city was founded in 1541 and today it remains the center of life in the city. Never a dull place to be by day with its constant activity and throngs of people entertained by buskers and local artists, the evenings are just as lively when passers-by can become embroiled in chess games on temporary tables set up under the trees.

Chilean Museum of Pre-Colombian Art

Spanning 4,500 years and about 80 pre-Colombian civilizations of South America the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino (Chilean Museum of Pre-Colombian Art) is a fascinating place to spend a few hours. Located in the old Royal Customs House, the exhibit displays are well lit and beautifully arranged throughout four rooms set around a central courtyard. The collection provides an informative insight into the cultures of the Incas, Mayans, Aztecs and other once proud civilizations of the continent, illustrating their artistic diversity.

Mercado Central

Santiago's colorful Mercado Central, housed in an 1872 wrought iron structure, has a fruit and vegetable market as well as a buzzing fish market where an assortment of glistening fish is packed onto the tables. Mussels, oysters and clams sit in buckets among an unidentifiable variety of crustaceans and tentacled creatures. The fishmongers demonstrate their skill at gutting and filleting amid a cacophony of frenzied buying. The best time to visit is at lunchtime when a delicious sampling of the wares can be enjoyed in the happily chaotic atmosphere of the central hall.

Cerro San Cristóbal

Cerro San Cristóbal is a 2,752-foot (860m) hill jutting out of the city and on a clear day affords magnificent views of the surrounds and across to the Andes. The easiest way to the top is by funicular, but there is also a teleférico (cable car), bus or a path leading up from the bottom through the forested slopes. There are many walkways and at the summit is the 70-foot (22m) high statue of the Virgin Mary to mark where the Pope held a mass in 1987. There is also a small zoo, picnic sites and an outdoor swimming pool. The cerro is situated within the Santiago's biggest open space, Parque Metropolitano, and is a peaceful place, an escape from the never-ending noise of traffic in the city below.

Reserva Nacional Los Flamencos

Within the Reserva Nacional Los Flamencos is the Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon), a surreal landscape of salt peaks formed by uplifted lake sediments that have been shaped into dramatic formations by wind erosion. With a surreal blend of pastel colors the valley is even more enchanting at sunset. A striking feature of northern Chile's geography is the shimmering and apparently endless salt lakes that are home to many bird species. The Salar de Atacama in the reserve has a lagoon, Laguna Chaxa, which supports three species of flamingos as well as other bird life. The salt lake also affords good views of the volcanoes in the Andean chain of mountains on the near distant altiplano.

El Tatio Geysers

At an altitude of 13,760 feet (4,300m), El Tatio is one of the world's highest geyser fields. Best viewed at sunrise when there are changes in atmospheric pressure, the steaming fumaroles are spectacular, shooting up clouds of steam 35 feet (112m) into the air. Mineral deposits left behind after the evaporation of the boiling water have formed other interesting structures on the thin crust of the geyser field. It is also possible to bathe in the hot geyser water in a small pool, however parts of the field are very dangerous with only a thin crust over nearly boiling mud so it is always a good idea to visit the geysers with a knowledgeable guide.

Parque Nacional Chiloé

Following in the footsteps of Darwin after 150 years, the visitor will find an isolated but wildly beautiful assortment of rolling hills, native forests and pristine coastline in Parque Nacional Chiloé. It is home to the Chilote fox, the rare pudú (miniature deer) and over 100 species of birds, including the Magellanic penguin. The park offers a variety of walking trails, through forests and under twisted tepú trees, along miles of unspoiled coastline or along nature trails that lead up onto the hills for superb views of the surrounds. One of the draws of the hiking trails in Chiloé is the wide selection of short hikes, making it a good activity even for visitors who aren't in the best shape. The park is also home to several Huilliche Indian communities. The information center at the entrance has good displays on the flora, fauna and the traditions and folklore of the Huilliche people.

Parque Nacional Torres del Paine

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the 180,000-hectare (442-acre) park is the pride and joy of southern Chile. The park takes its name after the towering granite pillars that rise over 6,560 feet (2,000m) above the Patagonian plains. It is a hiker's paradise with many excellent, well-developed trails through astounding changes in scenery. Turquoise lakes and roaring waterfalls, forests and magnificent rambling glaciers, icy rivers, daisy-filled meadows, harsh mountain passes and plenty of wildlife, including the protected guanaco (wild relative of the llama), are some of its attractions, while visitors can try their hand at outdoor activities like horseback riding, sailing and kayaking, rock climbing and fly-fishing.

Parque Nacional Laguna San Rafael

Created in 1959, Parque Nacional Laguna San Rafael covers an area of 6,726 square miles (17,420 sq km) and includes the Northern Patagonian Ice Field. It was named for the San Rafael Lagoon that was created by the retreat of the San Rafael Glacier, and has been designated a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. A fjord more than 10 miles (16km) long is one of the park's principle attractions, along with some of the highest peaks in Patagonia, several glaciers, lakes and a rich variety of bird and sea life. While the majority of visitors to Laguna San Rafael never set foot on land, the magificent views from the boat are such that will stay with you for a lifetime.

Castro

Castro is the main town on Chiloé Island, famous for its colorful rows of palafitos (stilted houses) lining the estuaries, excellent seafood and traditional handicrafts. With an eclectic blend of Chilote culture and modern development, Castro is a popular summer destination for Chilean and Argentinean tourists and has a laid back holiday feel to it. One of the town's most interesting features is the San Francisco Church, painted in dazzling pastel colors. The town itself is full of interesting sights however, including craft markets, the regional museum, and the MAM Gallery. There are a range of restaurants and shops, and a few bars and clubs to keep the fun going at night. The town also provides access to the nearby islands of the Chiloé archipelago and the Parque Nacional Chiloé.

Puerto Montt

Capital of the Lake District, Puerto Montt is the embarkation point for stunning cruises to the fjords of the glacial Chilean coastline and is the gateway to the island of Chiloé and Chilean Patagonia. Its architecture is Middle European with unique wooden designs and predominantly high-pitched roofs and ornate balconies. Many of the older, traditional houses can be spotted with their distinct patchwork of weather resistant shingles, made from the Alcerce Tree. Puerto Montt has a marvelous craft market, a good place to buy Chiloén handicrafts, and the outstanding seafood is not to be missed. Well worth a visit, too, is the local cathedral, with its large rosary made from fishnet floats above the confessional.

Chilean Tierra del Fuego

At the very tip of Patagonia, beyond Chile and even South America, lies the archipelago of Tierra del Fuego, whose name translates to 'Land of Fire'. It's a dramatic name for a dramatic place, as the harsh winds of the sub-polar climate sweep over rocky mountains, sparse tundra, and hardy forests. Tierra del Fuego is an increasingly popular ecotravel destination, and adventurous travelers come to see wildlife that includes sea lions, foxes, condors, owls, and firecrown hummingbirds. Hiking and camping are popular activities, and the archipelago offers some of the best trout fishing in South America.

Much of the tourism in Tierra del Fuego revolves around 'southernmost' things: the port town of Puerto Williams claims to be the southernmost city in the world, while the southernmost cathedral and temple are located in Punta Arenas. While Cape Horn is widely thought to be the southernmost island in South America, that title actually goes to The Diego Ramírez Islands, which are nesting grounds for many species of southern seabirds, including albatross, penguins and petrels.

Magdalena Island Penguin Reserve

A paradise for birdwatchers, Magdalena Island Penguin Reserve is located 21.7 miles (35km) south of Punta Arenas. Magdalena Island is a natural bird sanctuary, and is home to more than 100,000 birds, including 95 percent of the world's population of Magellanic Penguins as well as cormorants and seagulls. Because it is a sanctuary, the only facilities on Magdalena Island are for scientific research and not tourism. Guided tours are available to see the penguins in their natural habitat, and the lighthouse at the Environmental Interpretation Center provides stunning panoramic views of the region. There are ferries available from Puntas Arenas, which take approximately two hours each way and provide snacks and coffee.

Wine Country

Chilean wine enjoys a good reputation with sommeliers all around the world, with its popularity soaring in the last decade. Central Chile's Mediterranean climate is ideal for vineyards, and some of the best wine comes from the Central Valley, around Santiago. Wine tasting tours are a popular attraction in Santiago, and there are many wineries to choose from. Valle de Maipo, Valle de Casablanca and Valle de San Antonio are the closest to the city, and there are nearly 30 wineries alone in Valle de Maipo. Wine country in Chile stretches for many miles along the coast however, from Valle de Elqui in the north to Valle de Malleco in the south.

Wine country is an especially beautiful region in the summer, and it is possible to hire bicycles to tour the area. Some groups of wineries have banded together to offer established tours along 'wine routes', of which the Colchagua Valley is the most popular. Many tour operators in Santiago offer wine tasting packages as well.