Touring in Chile

Chile stretches for over 2,500 miles along the spine of South America, from the parched deserts of the north to the icy waters of Tierra del Fuego in the south. Vibrant cities, spectacular mountain scenery and world class wine regions make this one of Latin America’s most rewarding countries, and the sheer distances involved mean that an escorted tour is a smart choice. Way out west in the Pacific Ocean, don’t forget about Easter Island, home to a unique Polynesian culture and the mysterious moai statues.

Chile’s sophisticated capital, Santiago, sits roughly halfway along the length of the country and is home to some 40% of the population. Northern Chile is defined by the starkly beautiful landscapes of the Atacama Desert, one of the driest places on Earth, while to the south are the dramatic Chilean Fjords and the jagged peaks of Patagonia. The glaciers and granite spires of Torres del Paine National Park are particularly stunning, while the chilly waters of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago are prime whale-watching country and offer a stepping stone to the icy wastes of Antarctica.

Touring Highlights of Chile

• The Atacama Desert is the driest place on earth outside of the polar regions, and the landscape is so otherworldly that this is where Mars rovers are tested before launching them into space.
• Polynesian settlers arrived on Easter Island around a thousand years ago after paddling an astonishing distance across the Pacific in dugout canoes. The island is now part of Chile, but Polynesian culture and language endures, as do the mysterious moai statues.
• Patagonia is a spectacular land of aquamarine lakes, colossal glaciers and plunging fjords, from the jagged peaks of Torres del Paine to the windswept Tierra del Fuego archipelago.
• Chile’s capital, Santiago, is an eminently likeable city with plenty of lovely plazas, parks and elegant old buildings, fast emerging as a top destination for foodies.
• Visit wine regions such as the Aconcagua and Maipo Valleys and learn more about the Chilean wine industry, which dates back to the 1550s. And, of course, don’t miss the chance to try a bold Cabernet Sauvignon or a fruity Chardonnay!