Top 8 Places to Visit in Chile Before You Die

The best places to visit in Chile before you die are incredibly diverse; from ancient volcanoes to urban parks, Chile is a natural and cultural wonder. This country occupies a stretch of land, from the Andes to the Pacific ocean. Did you know that Chilean territory includes Easter Island, in the Australian sub-continent? The weather in Chile ranges from desert to mediterranean, and there is a temperature to suit all tastes in this diverse country. The capital, Santiago, has something for everyone, from incredible city views atop the hills to art museums and urban parks. If venturing a little further afield, there are plenty of conservation areas and parks featuring stunning natural beauty. There is also a rich architectural history in Chile, and buildings such as Moneda Palace really show off the Spanish influences on this country.

Chile is an incredibly stable country, with a politically-stable atmosphere and a growing economy, but one should always check local news and weather reports before travelling to make sure no nasty surprises lay in store; but for the most part, the best places to visit in Chile that are safe and beautiful are always welcoming of tourism. When venturing into the mountains or forests, be sure to follow instructions from local guides and stick to the paths, and when heading into the cities be sure to stick to well-lit areas at night and avoid confrontation. There is an incredible diversity in prices in Chile, so be sure to shop around for the best deal on hotels and don’t be afraid of checking things like restaurants in advance for their price lists.

Chile could be considered one of the safest countries in the world to live at peace, but if you’re just visiting it’s time to check out this top 8 of places to visit in Chile before you die!

 

8. Torres del Paine National Park

Containing mountains, lakes, and glaciers, this national park has so much to offer it would be impossible to see it all in one go! Many travelers choose to visit the park over several days to fully enjoy what there is to offer, but if you don’t have that time be sure to take a tour or follow one of the paths to see the best of what the park has to offer.

 

7. Lauca National Park

Located in the Andean range of mountains, this park is a protected area but is open to visitors (be sure to check local news before you travel, though). The mountains are stunning and are perfect for more experienced climbers, but walks around the bases of the mountains are sure to excite those less adventurous.

 

6. La Moneda Palace

Meaning ‘coin palace’, this fantastic building is the seat of the Chilean President and several cabinet ministers. It was originally a mint, manufacturing currency, but became the seat of presidential power in 1845. Bombed during the coup, the building has undertaken substantial restoration work.

 

5. Osorno

Osorno is a nearly-9000-feet tall volcano, known worldwide as a symbol of the Chilean landscape. It has not erupted in over 100 years, and the top is covered in snow.

 

4. Plaza de Armas

The main square of Santiago, Chile’s capital city, this square forms the original centre of the grid-pattern that makes up the city’s streets. There are plenty of historic buildings and museums nearby, all with beautiful architecture to look at and cultural significance to the city and to Chile as a whole.

 

3. Santa Lucia Hill

A remnant of a 15-million-year-old volcano, the hill is near the centre of Santiago. The hill contains a park, full of fountains and ornate archways, and the top of the hill provides a very popular view of the city – so get there early to ensure the best view!

 

2. Santiago Metropolitan Park

Santiago Metropolitan Park is one of the largest urban parks in the world, and certainly the largest in Chile, at over 700 hectares. Between 2012 and 2016 the park is undergoing fantastic redevelopment, to make it even more beautiful than it currently is; just be careful of building works!

 

And, the best places to visit in Chile before you die is: Chilean National Museum of Fine Arts

This museum is the central point for Chilean art, as well as the more broad topic of South American art. It contains masterpieces from across the sub-continent, and will have something to suit everyone’s tastes – although behind it is the Museum of Contemporary Art, if that’s more your thing. Located in a beautiful building, this museum is the perfect place to relax after a hard day in the city.

The best places to visit in Chile before you die are, as a rule, open to tourism and incredibly friendly to non-locals who wish to take in their culture. Remember to check local travel reports before traveling to make sure everything is as you would expect, and you’re sure to have a fantastic time in Chile!