10 Must-See Places in Chile

South America Picture the continent of, there is a country that runs along the long thin Pacific Ocean that runs from south to north, and that's it. Sili. The country, separated from the rest of the continent by the Andes Mountains, amazes those who see it with its magnificent geography filled with mountains, deserts, glaciers, lakes and islands, and fills those who do not see it with the desire to go. At the north end of the country is the Atacama Desert, which is kilometers in size, and Patagonia, the land of glaciers, at the south end. 

Besides its mind-blowing geography, Chile is also the most economically powerful country in South America. It reminds me of our country with the people being happy, smiling, helpful and friendly. They also love Turkish TV series, and they are not empty towards us. 

If you are thinking of traveling to Chile, I have listed the top 10 places for you to add to your travel list. 

1. Capital Santiago – Santiago De Chile 

The capital city of Chile, Santiago, was established almost in the middle of the country between the Andes Mountains and the ocean. With short trips from the capital, you can easily reach the wine trails, the Andes or the ocean. With its many museums, squares, promenades, and bohemian neighborhoods that have become increasingly popular in recent years, Santiago offers a selection of places to visit for all tastes and budgets. Santiago satisfies both the eyes and the stomach with its rich options for eating and drinking. 

There is an Atatürk Monument in Santiago. Take a look at my article where I explained the details about the monument: Monument to Mustafa Kemal Ataturk in Santiago.

2. Atacama Desert

One of the first places that comes to mind when Chile is mentioned is the Atacama Desert, the driest desert in the world. A part of the desert, which is spread over thousands of square kilometers, is also in Bolivia. Moon Valley attracts travelers with its interesting rock formations and red soil. Salt flats and geysers, on the other hand, give the feeling of an out-of-this-world place. You can stay in the city of San Pedro de Atacama, at the very beginning of the desert, and cycle through the valleys, enjoy the hot water pools in the hot springs, ski on the sand dunes, and enjoy the magnificent views, especially at sunset. 

3. Valparaiso 

The port city of Valparaiso, located only 1,5-2 hours from the capital Santiago, is Chile's most colorful city. Neighborhoods of the city, which are on the UNESCO protection list, can be reached by elevator, and are famous for their murals that cover almost all the walls. Also, the famous Chilean poet Pablo Neruda has a house here that you can visit as a museum. 

4. Easter Island

Easter Island, one of the most isolated islands in the world, is located within the borders of Chile. The island is a unique place for photographers, history and geography enthusiasts. Located 3500 kilometers away from the mainland, the island is famous for its statues, which are up to 9 meters high, spread over the whole island. I liken these statues to the statues in Nemrut. The only difference is that there are about 1000 gigantic statues on the island.

5. Wine Route 

Have you heard of the reputation of Chilean wines? The wines made from Carménère, Syrah and Pinot Noir grapes are making a name for themselves around the world. Wine routes in the country; It has alternatives where you can visit both short-term and long-term, wine tasting, participate in the vintage, and visit the valleys with beautiful vineyards. Wine routes are located around Santiago. 

6. Torres Del Paine National Park

Torres Del Paine National Park, located in Chilean Patagonia, is a paradise for trekkers. The national park got its name from the 3 tower-shaped rocks at the end of the walking route called the W route. Seeing the towers at the end of the route accompanied by lakes and glaciers is the reward of the park. Note that when the weather is clear you can see the towers, otherwise you may encounter fog and clouds at the end of the road. 

7. Pisco Elqui

One of the important drinks of Chilean culture is Pisco. Pisco Elqui is where the national Pisco drink is made. Pisco cannot be shared between Peru and Chile, it is considered the national drink of both countries. Pisco is a drink made from grape juice. In Pisco Elqui, you can take tours of the distilleries and have a tasting. As in many parts of Chile, nature is very beautiful here, you can take nature walks.  

8. Lake District

Chile's lakes region boasts dazzling landscapes with its many lakes, snow-capped mountains and volcanoes, as its name suggests. In this region, there are many opportunities to do activities such as rafting, zipline, canoeing, volcano trekking, nature walk. You can also take daily or long-term nature walks. 

9. Tierra Del Fuego

Tierra Del Fuego means the end of the world. This is the closest settlement to Antarctica. The inhabitants of this region are penguins, sea lions, whales and dolphins. This is one of the most pristine places in the world. You can join boat tours to witness the beauty of nature. 

10. Chiloe

Chiloe Island is one of the places that attract attention with its colors and culture. The 16 wooden churches, which are on the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage list, have made this region famous. It is one of the beauties of Chile with its colorfully painted houses built on wooden piers and its nature, with its isolated and still life-like life. 

Chile is definitely one of the countries where nature is generous. He has only one curse and that is earthquakes. Let us remind you that earthquakes occur very often in the country.

Details of my 23-day South America tour route. Check it out too.

Edited version of this article Skyroad Magazine Published as the cover story in the January 2021 issue.