5 reasons to put Chile on your travel bucket list
1. A large majority of climates in one country
Chile is one of the countries with the most extraordinary landscapes in the world, surrounded by high rising Andes and volcanoes. A journey from north to south can take you to enjoy landscapes like from another planet in the Atacama Desert, small fishing villages in Chiloé or untouched wilderness inside the Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia, which is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful nature destinations in South America.
Did you know that Chile makes part of three continents? Indeed, not only does the Chilean territory extends down South America, but also in Oceania (Easter Island), and Antarctica.
Therefore, almost all climates that exist on earth can be found here. In the north is the Atacama Desert, the driest desert in the world, in the lake district there are ancient forests and in the south glaciers and huge areas of ice. The large number of national parks in the country invite you to go trekking, and there are many opportunities for interesting adventure trips.
2. Open nature & vast landscapes
Chile has been relatively isolated from the rest of the world due to its remote location. Therefore, the number of tourists is not as overwhelming as in many other places, and there are areas in the country where you can be the only visitor. It’s also easy to get around by air or car: adventurers can rent a car and explore the famous and breathtaking Carretera Austral.
3. Perfect destination for wildlife watching
The flora and fauna are especially influenced by the varied climate in Chile. Since almost all climates of the earth are present here, vegetation and existing animal species are depending on the climate of the region. Therefore, you can see a wide variety of wildlife in Chile from flamingos in the north in the Atacama Desert, to penguins, sea lions, whales, guanacos and the rare endemic huemul (South Andean deer) in Patagonia.
Also called the “guardian of the Andes”, the puma can be found throughout Chile, from the region of Arica and Parinacota, to Patagonia. With its mysterious charisma it is revered by native cultures all over America. In Mapudungun (Mapuche language) the puma is known as “pangui” or “trapial”, being one of the most sacred animals of the Mapuche along with the condor and the eagle.
The Andean Condor can also be found throughout Chile. Due to its geographical and climatic diversity and its almost 500 different species of birds, Chile is one of the ideal destinations for bird watching enthusiasts.
4. Wine country
Chile is a perfect destination for wine lovers. From the Atacama region in the north of the country to the beautiful valleys Casablanca, Maipo and Colchagua in central Chile near Santiago and the Bío Bío region in the south, Chile produces world-class wines.
The numerous vineyards along the wine routes can be visited and the wine cellars and production can be discovered. Of course, a wine tasting is not to be missed. Many of the wineries are specialized in tourism and offer various tourist attractions such as guided tours, gastronomic programs or even carriage rides and visits to museums.
Try one of the first-class red wines Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot or Carménère, which is exclusively produced in Chile. Or refresh yourself with a cool Sauvignon Blanc white wine
5. Clearest starry sky in the world
It is well known that the Atacama Desert has the clearest and most beautiful skies in the world. And it’s true. Enjoying a night here is an unforgettable experience.
Chile enjoys more than 300 clear days per year and with little or no light pollution in the north, conditions are ideal for stargazing under open skies. For a truly close encounter with the planets, visit one of the many astronomical observatories open to visitors.
Observe constellations, planets, shooting stars, and all kinds of celestial bodies in the spectacular Chilean skies – the clearest in the entire southern hemisphere.
