What to See in Chile: 15 Must-See Places

Chile is a destination of contrasts, featuring deserts, mountains, glaciers, volcanoes, forests, and coastlines. If you’re wondering what to visit in Chile, you’ll find options for all kinds of travelers. The country stretches over 4,000 kilometers from north to south, so your itinerary will depend on the time you have available and the season. In this blog post, you’ll discover 15 tourist attractions in Chile that are worth considering for your first visit.

1. Santiago: History, Culture, and Cuisine

Santiago is the main international entry point and a great base from which to start your trip. Among its main attractions are the Plaza de Armas, the Palacio de La Moneda, the Santa Lucía and San Cristóbal hills, as well as neighborhoods like Lastarria and Bellavista.

You can also explore museums, markets, restaurants, and cultural centers. From the capital, it’s possible to take day trips to the coast, the vineyards, and the mountains.

2. Valparaíso: Art and Heritage by the Ocean

Valparaíso is one of the must-visit places in Chile if you’re looking for culture and architecture. The city is known for its hills, historic funiculars, colorful houses, and street art. Its historic district was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts tourists year-round. You can also combine a visit to Valparaíso with a trip to Viña del Mar on a day trip.

3. Casablanca Valley: Chilean Wines

The Casablanca Valley is an ideal stop for those who enjoy wine tourism and gastronomy. Located between Santiago and Valparaíso, it’s known for its vineyards, particularly those growing Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay.

You can visit wineries, learn about their production processes, and participate in tastings. A guided tour allows you to explore different vineyards without worrying about driving.

4. Cajón del Maipo: Mountains Near Santiago

A short distance from Santiago lies the Cajón del Maipo, known for its mountains, rivers, and mountain scenery. The El Yeso Reservoir is one of its main attractions.

The destination also offers hiking, outdoor activities, and hot springs. You can get there by car or book a tour from Santiago. If you’re interested in visiting this destination from Santiago, we recommend checking out our Tours to Cajón del Maipo. 

5. Elqui Valley: Nature and Astronomy

In the Coquimbo region further north lies the Elqui Valley, a great option for those seeking scenic views, tranquility, and clear skies. Vicuña and Pisco Elqui are among the main points of interest. You can visit astronomical observatories, tour vineyards, and explore villages and the Gabriela Mistral Museum.

6. Arica: The Far North 

Arica is one of the most attractive destinations in northern Chile. The city combines beaches, cultural heritage, and desert landscapes. Among its main attractions are the Morro de Arica, the Chinchorro and El Laucho beaches, and the Azapa Valley.

You can also explore the legacy of the Chinchorro culture and take excursions to the Altiplano. Flights are available from Santiago to Chacalluta International Airport. If you’re interested in this destination, check out the Tour to Arica. 

7. San Pedro de Atacama and the Desert

Much further north lies San Pedro de Atacama, in the heart of the Atacama Desert. This is one of the best places to visit in Chile because of its unique landscapes and the flowering desert, which, during rainy years like this one, blooms in September. 

The desert features volcanoes, salt flats, high-altitude lagoons, and rock formations. Among the best-known sites are the Valley of the Moon and the Tatio Geysers.

8. Easter Island: Rapa Nui Culture

Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island, is one of the most unique destinations in Chile. Its moai statues and archaeological sites reflect the history of a Polynesian culture that developed over centuries. Notable sites include Rano Raraku, Ahu Tongariki, and Anakena. 

9. Pucón: Volcanoes, Lakes, and Adventure

Pucón is one of Chile’stop tourist destinations for those seeking nature, adventure, and adrenaline. The city is located on the shores of Lake Villarrica and offers views of the volcano of the same name.

Here you can go rafting, hiking, kayaking, zip-lining, and enjoy other outdoor activities. You can also visit historic national parks, soak in hot springs, and go birdwatching along the Trancura River. 

10. Puerto Varas and Lake Llanquihue

Puerto Varas combines lakefront scenery, volcanoes, and German-influenced architecture. From its waterfront, you can see the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes. You can also visit Frutillar and the Petrohué Falls. A practical option is to use Puerto Varas as a base for exploring the Los Lagos Region and its various attractions in the surrounding area.

11. Chiloé Island: Culture and Traditions

Chiloé is one of Chile’s most interestingtourist destinations for those seeking local culture. The island is known for its wooden churches, stilt houses, markets, cuisine, and mythology. Castro, Ancud, and Dalcahue are some of the towns you can include in your itinerary.

To get there, you can fly to Mocopulli Airport, near Castro. You can also travel to Puerto Montt and continue by road and ferry. If you want to see several attractions in just a few days, you can check out our Tour to Chiloé.

12. Carretera Austral

The Carretera Austral is one of the greatest experiences for nature lovers. The route winds through the forests, rivers, lakes, mountains, and glaciers of Chilean Patagonia.

Coyhaique, Puerto Río Tranquilo, and Lake General Carrera are some of its top destinations. You can explore different sections by car or through organized tours.

13. Torres del Paine: Chilean Patagonia

Torres del Paine is one of Chile’s most internationally renowneddestinations. The park combines mountains, glaciers, lakes, and vast expanses of Patagonian steppe.

Among its main attractions are the Torres del Paine, Lake Grey, and the French Valley. To get there, most travelers fly from Santiago to Punta Arenas, the region’s capital. They then continue by road to Puerto Natales and the park.

Check out our Tour to Torres del Paine, which offers trekking options and excursions throughout the park.

14. Puerto Natales: Gateway to Patagonia

Puerto Natales is one of the main bases for exploring Torres del Paine. The city is located next to Seno Última Esperanza and offers lodging, restaurants, and excursions.

From here, you can take boat trips to glaciers, visit ranches, or continue on to the park. There are also excursions to other parts of Patagonia. 

15. Punta Arenas and Tierra del Fuego

Punta Arenas is a gateway to Chile’s southernmost mainland. The city has a rich history linked to seafaring and the Strait of Magellan.

You can visit the Municipal Cemetery, the Magallanes Regional Museum, and take excursions to Tierra del Fuego. The area also offers access to scenic landscapes and nature reserves.

How to Plan a Trip Through Chile?

The country’s vast size makes it difficult to see all of Chile’s tourist attractions in a single trip. For a first visit, you can combine Santiago with San Pedro de Atacama and a destination in the south, such as Torres del Paine or Easter Island—the destinations most sought after by travelers.

The best itinerary will depend on the season, your budget, and the activities you want to do. If you’re looking for places to visit in Chile, start by selecting two or three regions. Then, check flight connections and the time needed for each destination.