Things to Do in Chile

About Chile

Chile runs impossibly thin between the Pacific and the Andes' snow-capped peaks. The world's driest desert sits hours from pristine glacial valleys, and modern Santiago's glass towers give way to ancient Mapuche forests before lunch. You can sip excellent Carmenère while watching condors soar over otherworldly landscapes. Valparaíso's rainbow-colored hillside neighborhoods are worth the trip. Street art covers the walls. The city tells stories of resilience through murals and graffiti that locals have painted over decades—some political, some just beautiful. Chilean hospitality is genuine. Share empanadas with locals in a Santiago mercado or listen to fishermen's tales in remote Patagonian villages, and you'll see what draws people back. Every sunrise brings something new: Easter Island's mysterious moai at dawn, or marble caves reflecting turquoise waters. Chile doesn't offer destinations. It offers transformation.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Book long-distance buses with premium companies like Turbus or Pullman for comfort between cities. For Patagonia, rent a 4WD vehicle in advance as roads can be challenging and rental availability is limited in remote areas.

Money: Use Chilean pesos (CLP) exclusively outside major tourist areas. ATMs charge high fees, so withdraw larger amounts less frequently. Credit cards work in cities but carry cash for markets, small restaurants, and rural locations.

Cultural Respect: Greet with a kiss on the right cheek, even in business settings. Chileans dress conservatively and value punctuality. Learn basic Spanish phrases—English isn't widely spoken outside tourist zones, and locals deeply appreciate the effort.

Food Safety: Try traditional empanadas, fresh seafood, and local wines without worry—food safety standards are excellent. Avoid tap water in rural areas and stick to bottled water. Street food is generally safe in established markets.

When to Visit

Chile's diverse geography creates distinct regional seasons. December to March (summer) offers the best weather nationwide, with temperatures ranging from 75-85°F in Santiago and 60-70°F in Patagonia, making it ideal for trekking and outdoor activities. However, expect peak season pricing (30-50% higher) and crowds at major attractions. April-May and September-November provide excellent shoulder seasons with mild temperatures (60-75°F in central regions), 25% lower accommodation costs, and beautiful autumn colors or spring blooms. Winter (June-August) brings rain to central Chile and temperatures of 45-60°F, but offers perfect skiing conditions in the Andes and is the only time to visit northern Chile comfortably, where Atacama temperatures drop to pleasant 60-70°F. Patagonia is best avoided in winter due to harsh weather and limited services. Key festivals include La Tirana Festival (July 16), celebrating indigenous culture in the north, and Fiestas Patrias (September 18-19), Chile's lively independence celebration with rodeos, folk dancing, and traditional foods. Wine harvest season (March-April) offers special tastings and events in Maipo and Colchagua valleys. For Easter Island, avoid July-August due to strong winds and rain.