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Why go? For the adventurous traveller wanting to get off the beaten track, Chile offers the ultimate playground amid some of the world's most pristine and spectacular scenery. It is generally safer than other countries in South American and its relatively good infrastructure makes travel easy. The diverse landscape of this super-skinny country ranges from the desolate sands of the Atacama Desert in the north, down through the lush valleys and vineyards of the Central Heartland, and the azure waters and ancient forests of the Lake District, to Patagonia’s spectacular mountains and deep glacial fjords. Bordered on one side by the Andes and on the other by the Pacific Ocean, it's feasible to surf and ski in the same day. We've discovered some exciting accommodation, from a luxury colonial hacienda to cosy lodges, friendly guesthouses and the ultimate mountain hideaway. And wherever you are, outdoor action is never far away. Raft and kayak some of the world's wildest waters, hike ancient trails, climb volcanoes or just relax in the hot springs and savour fine Chilean wines. Any Downsides? You won't find the magnificent Inca ruins of Peru or the colourful markets of Ecuador (the atmosphere and prices here are more European) but Chile is definitely the place to find nature at its best and a genuinely warm welcome. Getting there is a long haul, especially from Europe; you really need at least 2 weeks to make it worthwhile. The sheer length of the country makes it difficult to see all in one visit. If limited by time, focus on one region or combine two or three by taking internal flights. Fierce winters in the south limit the visiting season to this area from November-April. Current Weather/Time: In Santiago:  |
Activities * Hiking/trekking: rising to over 20,000 feet, the Andes run the length of the country. National parks, extensive trails and outstanding scenery make Chile a top hiking destination. Treks into the high Andes can be arranged at a friendly guesthouse in the Central Valley. * Horse riding: Argentina may be known as the land of the gauchos, but it is a way of life equally inherent to its neighbour. Riding excursions into the Andes can be arranged at the following hotels. * White-water rafting and kayaking: The Futaleufu in Patagonia offers some of the world's best white waters. Check out the coolest rafting and kayaking trips. Rivers near Pucon or Osorno in the Lake District offer slightly tamer rides. * Canyoning: climbing, hiking and swimming down the country’s innumerable gorges. An excellent way to really get out there, not just off the beaten track, but off any track at all. Try the Gelves Gorge near Futaleufu. * Fly-Fishing: Chile offers some of the world’s best salmon and trout fishing. Stay at a cosy lodge on the edge of Lago Todos los Santos or spend a week with a passionate fisherman on the island of Chiloe. For the ultimate fishing escape, opt for a remote hideaway on the pristine Futaleufu. * Learn Spanish: in fun surroundings at Casa Chueca just south of Santiago. * Climbing/mountaineering: myriad opportunities for climbers and mountaineers. From the popular Lak District volcanoes, including Volcan Osorno, to the ultimate challenge of Torres del Paine. * Skiing: in June/July. Within an hour of Santiago, the resorts of Valle Nevado and Portillo provide excellent skiing. Antillanca, east of Osorno, in the Lake District also has ski facilities. * Wine-tasting: Chilean wines are ranked among South America’s – even the world’s – best. Visit the vineyards just south of Santiago or better still, stay in luxury on a historical wine estate * Culture: the island of Chiloe is known or its folklore, friendly people, markets and unique wooden churches; check out Santiago's colonial architecture and theatre scene. * Cycling/mountain biking: Vast open wildernesses, endless vistas and extensive road network, make Chile a cyclist’s dream. Hardened mountain cyclists should try the Camino Austral, from Puerto Montt downwards. * Birdwatching: impressive array of birds (over 200 species), from soaring Andean condors to the flightless rhea, flamingos to penguins. * Beaches: Beaches for sunbathing and recreational activities in Chile are restricted to its northern coasts. La Serena and Vina del Mar are the best-known resorts. |
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