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The 20 Best Places to Visit in Chile

dientes de navarino wanderung in chile

With so many incredible places to visit in Chile, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. This guide highlights the must-see destinations across the country, making it easier to plan your Chile trip. From vibrant cities to stunning national parks, breathtaking trekking trails, and hidden gems, these locations will ensure an unforgettable travel experience.
 
I’ve traveled through Chile four times, exploring 13 of its 15 regions, and I’ve discovered some of the best places to visit. To make the most of your Chile adventure, I recommend planning a trip of at least two to three weeks. If you’re traveling independently, taking a Spanish course can be a huge help in navigating the country and interacting with locals.

Map

Use this map to plan your trip to Chile. Each place mentioned in this post is marked on the map below to help you plan your route more efficiently, from the Atacama Desert in the north to the glaciers of Chilean Patagonia in the south. Whether you're looking for hiking trails, national parks, or cultural hotspots, this map will help you explore the country’s most stunning locations.

Map of places to visit in Chile

This map highlights the top places to visit in Chile, including famous national parks, scenic trekking routes, and vibrant towns. The capital, Santiago, is also marked as a key starting point.


1. Atacama Desert

Sunset in the Moon Valley near San Pedro de Atacama
Sunset in Valle de la Luna, located in the Atacama near San Pedro de Atacama. One of the must-see places to visit in Chile’s north.
Let’s kick off this travel guide to the best places to visit in Chile in the far north. The Atacama Desert is the driest desert in the world but still offers a lot to see: the fascinating Moon Valley, flamingos in high-altitude lagoons, sandboarding down massive dunes, volcanic landscapes, and arguably the clearest night skies on the planet.

From the town of San Pedro de Atacama, you can also continue your travel adventure with a multi-day trip to Uyuni or head directly to Salta and northern Argentina. If you’re into thrill and fun, I can highly recommend sandboarding at sunset. Definitely one of the most unique ways to experience the atacama desert!

Tour Options

There are plenty of tour packages you can book in advance, making it easy to explore the area around San Pedro without hassle:

Accommodation

San Pedro de Atacama is one of the more touristy places to visit in Chile, so accommodation prices tend to be higher than elsewhere in the country. That said, hotel standards have improved a lot over the years, and most places now offer decent breakfast as part of the package. I’ve stayed in various hotels and guesthouses here on my trips, and these are my top recommendations:

BudgetRatingReasons to stay

Hostal Mamatierra
€€9.2great atmosphere, lovely owners, rich breakfast

Hostal Sonchek
€€9.0good location, very clean
La Casa de Jos退€9.2helpful staff, pool, great breakfast
Hotel La Casa de Don Tomás€€€€9.0Awesome breakfast, pool, good restaurant
Hotel Pascual Andino€€€€+9.4modern, luxurios ressort with pool, great breakfast


2. Valparaíso

Valparaíso, photographed from Pablo Neruda’s residence
Valparaíso is one of the most colorful places to visit in Chile, pictured here from Pablo Neruda’s home.
This vibrant port town with its many hills and iconic street art is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. When I first traveled South America, Valparaíso (together with Viña del Mar) was my final stop, and a great place to slow down a bit.

During your stay, I recommend exploring the central hills like Cerro Concepción and Cerro Alegre. You’ll find plenty of cafés, galleries, and some of the best views in town. Make sure to hop on one of the old-fashioned funiculars. It's a fun and very local experience. The maritime museum is also worth a visit if you’re curious about chilean naval history.

Accommodation

Since many of the best hotels and guesthouses are built on the hills, expect excellent views over the city and bay. Casa Volante was my home base here and a solid pick for anyone looking to explore cultural highlights and local nightlife. Below are a few more great options for your trip:

BudgetRatingReasons to stay

Casa Volante
8.6great location, good breakfast selection, budget friendly
La Casa Piola9.3lovely atmospehere, rooftop terrace, good value for money
Pontoval B&B€€9.8pool, good breakfast, modern interior
Hotel Winebox€€€9.0unusual accommodation (remodelled shipping containers), great view and good breakfast
Zero Hotel€€€9.2Hotel with lovely garden and terrace, good breakfast


3. Santiago de Chile

View of the sights in Santiago de Chile
The capital Santiago is the perfect stopover on the way to other places to visit in Chile.
Most trips to Chile begin in Santiago. Even though many travelers head south or north quickly, it’s worth staying 2–3 nights in the capital to recover from the long flight and get a first taste of the country. Santiago offers a mix of urban buzz, local culture, and impressive mountain views (on clear days).

In the historic center, you’ll find several important landmarks, including the cathedral and a bronze statue of Pedro de Valdivia, the city's founder. Santiago is also a great starting point for day tours into the nearby Andes or the vineyards just outside the city. If you're planning to travel deeper into Chile, this is also a good place to organize the next legs of your trip—whether heading to Patagonia or the Atacama.

Tours

You’ll find a range of excellent day tours that give you a solid intro to Santiago and its surroundings:

Accommodation

Over the years I’ve stayed in a few different spots in Santiago, from cozy hostels to stylish boutique hotels. Most recently, I picked Tambo Verde in the Bellavista district. A great mix of comfort and location. Here are my top picks to help you plan your stay:

BudgetRatingReasons to stay
Eco-Hostal Tambo Verde$9.5good atmosphere, lovely hosts, solid breakfast
Casa Bellavista$+9.0central location, modern, good breakfast
One NK Apartments$$9.2very modern, good location next to metro, rooms with balcony

Hotel Los Españoles Plus
$$$9.0comfortable, rooftop terrace with pool, great breakfast


4. Punta de Lobos

View of Punta de Lobos near Pichilemu
Pichilemu is the chilean surf capital, and Punta de Lobos is one of its most spectacular spots to watch surfers ride massive waves.
This low-key beach town on the Pacific has become a real hotspot for surfers from all over the world. But even if you’re not planning to hit the waves, Punta de Lobos is still one of the most relaxed attractions in Chile – perfect for a laid-back afternoon by the sea or a sunset stroll.

You’ll see locals and travelers hanging out on the cliffs, admiring the views, and soaking up the fresh ocean breeze. It’s one of those corners of the country that feels off the beaten path yet still welcoming.

Accommodation

Hotels and hostels in Pichilemu are a bit more basic, but prices are lower than in most other tourist spots. If you prefer more comfort, check out Hotel Mar y Vino: definitely worth it for the views and vibe!

BudgetRatingReasons to stay
Kom Hostal (meine Wahl)8.3very friendly owner, great central location, very affordable
Hostel Moreno8.6good location, lovely terrace, excellent breakfast
Hotel Mar & Vino€€€8.0central location, modern interior, breakfast included, great restaurants and bars on the ground floor


5. Villarrica Volcano

Villarrica volcano near Pucón
Villarrica is the landmark of Pucón in Chile’s Zona Sur.
The hike up Villarrica is an absolute must if you’re traveling through the Zona Sur of Chile. In summer, the area can get quite busy, so I recommend visiting during the shoulder season to enjoy Pucón and the surrounding nature at its best.

Climbing the volcano isn’t always possible due to changing activity levels, but even when the summit is off-limits, it’s still worth coming here. There are plenty of hot springs nearby to relax in—perfect after a long day of exploring the region…or post climbing the volcano.

Tour

You can book the Villarrica volcano climb in advance here:

Accommodation

Pucón has a beautiful setting and offers plenty of great places to stay. On my last trip, I stayed at Newen Bed and Breakfast—the modern room and excellent breakfast were a real treat. Here are my top accommodation picks:

BudgetRatingReasons to stay
Chili Kiwi Lakefront Backpackers$9.0good value for money, great location at the lake, good atmosphere
Lucky's Hostel$$9.6central location, sympathetic hosts, breakfast included
B&B HMüller$$9.4cozy, helpful staff
Newen B&B (my choice)$$8.8great central location, modern and cozy interior, good breakfast, very good value for money
Hotel Küyen-Ko$$9.0family run hotel, rustic
Maki Hotel$$$9.2modern boutique hotel, great breakfast


6. Conguillío National Park

Steve is standing in front of the sierra nevada panorama at conguillio national park
Located in the east of the country Conguillío National Park is one of the most scenic places to visit in Chile. The trail to Sierra Nevada is a must for hikers!
The small, sleepy town of Melipeuco is still flying under the radar when it comes to international tourism. Just outside the town you’ll find the spectacular Conguillío National Park, featured in countless guidebooks thanks to its striking scenery and ancient forests.

This national park is definitely a highlight in the east of the Araucanía region. One of the best hiking trails is the Sierra Nevada trek, taking you through old Araucaria forests with fantastic views of the Llaima volcano and the lakes below. If you love hiking and nature, this park should be high on your list of attractions to visit in Chile!


7. Puerto Varas

The main attraction near Puerto Varas is Osorno Volcano, which looks strikingly similar to Japan’s Mt. Fuji
The main attraction near Puerto Varas is Osorno Volcano, which looks strikingly similar to Japan’s Mt. Fuji
Speaking of volcanoes – here’s another iconic one! Puerto Varas is a charming town with strong German roots. You’ll notice this not just in the architecture but also in the abundance of delicious cakes.

The nearby Osorno volcano is a must-see in this part of the country. Unlike Villarrica, you don’t need hiking boots to get amazing views – you can drive quite far up and enjoy the scenery without breaking a sweat.

Tours

There are several great tours you can book in advance from Puerto Varas:

Accommodation

I stayed at a cozy B&B just a short walk from the lake and town center. Prices in Puerto Varas tend to be a bit higher, but the town has a lot of charm and is one of the safer places to visit in Chile.

BudgetRatingReasons to stay
MaPatagonia Hostel9.6great location, kitchen well equipped, lovely staff
Casa Apel9.1spacious rooms but cozy and very clean
B&B Puerto Austral€€9.0great location right at the lake, helpful staff, beautiful rooms
Hotel Dein Haus€€€9.0unique panorama, great breakfast
Hotel Cumbres Puerto Varas€€€€9.2exclusive resort in great location, comfortable rooms and rich breakfast


8. Chiloé Island

View of Castro on Chiloé Island
Chiloé played an important role in the settlement of Patagonia. You can still experience the island’s unique craftsmanship in Castro!
Chiloé Island lies just south of Puerto Montt and is one of the most unique places to visit in Chile. I didn’t make it here until my most recent trip, and I immediately regretted not coming sooner.

The best base for exploring the island is the town of Castro. Known for its colorful stilt houses (palafitos), iconic wooden churches, and great food scene, it offers the best infrastructure for travelers on Chiloé.

Chiloé National Park and the Muelle del Tiempo trail
Chiloé National Park shows off the wild and stunning side of this special island. Hiking to the Muelle del Tiempo was one of my highlights in Chile!

Tours

If you’re short on time, you can also book a day trip from Puerto Varas to Chiloé:

Accommodation

For a real local experience, try staying in one of the stilt house hotels (I recommend Sizigia):

BudgetRatingReasons to stay
Estación Hostel9.6Great location, very friendly owners happy to share tips on restaurants and places to visit, shared kitchen, optional breakfast for a small fee
Palafito Hostel€€9.0More like a small B&B, located in a traditional palafito, cozy modern rooms, good breakfast included
Alma Chilota€€€9.4Palafito right on the water with a stunning panoramic view from the living room, great atmosphere, excellent breakfast included
Sizigia Hotel€€€8.8Boutique hotel in a beautiful waterfront location, modern rooms with amazing views, good breakfast included – one of my favorite cafés with a lovely outdoor terrace is on the ground floor


9. Pumalín National Park

Chaitén volcano in Pumalín National Park
The Chaitén volcano plays a tragic role in the history of the region and sits in the heart of Pumalín National Park
This spot —and the following highlights— are for true adventurers, since they are located in one of the most remote areas of chilean Patagonia: the Carretera Austral. On the way from Puerto Montt to Chaitén, you’ll cross the rugged coast by ferry three times and pass right through Pumalín National Park.

The landscapes and wildlife are incredible here, with much of the area covered in temperate rainforest. The park offers several rewarding hikes, well-maintained campsites, and scenic trails. One of the best things to do is hike up to the Chaitén volcano—the very one that devastated the nearby town during its eruption years ago. Standing on the crater rim really gives you a sense of nature’s force.

You can see more from this section and the rest of Patagonia in my Patagonia video documentary:

Landscape near Chaitén along the Carretera Austral
The landscape around Chaitén definitely deserves a spot on your list of places to visit in Chile!

Accommodation:

Along the Carretera Austral, staying in small family-run guesthouses is the norm. Here are my personal recommendations for a cozy and authentic stay in Chaitén:

BudgetRatingReasons to stay
Tenchita Homestay$$8.8simple private rooms, breakfast included, lovely hosts
Paraiso Patagonico$$8.6great hosts, nice breakfast, very clean
Chucao Bosque y Cabanas$$8.9Chalet's in the forrest in the outskirts of Chaiten, helpful staff
Tranqueras del Monte$$$8.1comfortable accommodation with great breakfast and a lot of space, perfect for families and small groups


10. Futaleufú

Futaleufú – one of the most beautiful rivers in Patagonia
Futaleufú is located east of the Carretera Austral and considered one of the most beautiful rivers in Patagonia!
Many experts consider the Rio Futaleufú one of the best rivers in the world for white water rafting – and I’d agree. If you’re looking for some real white water adventure in Chile, this is the place to go. Rafting is not only fun, it also gives you an unforgettable view of one of Patagonia’s most stunning river landscapes.

I went on a multi-day rafting trip here and highly recommend it. The trip wasn’t just thrilling—it also gave me the chance to truly disconnect and soak in the natural beauty of the region.

Accommodation:

To start your rafting trip well-rested, here are my recommended places to stay in Futaleufú:

BudgetRatingReasons to stay
Hostería Futaleufu$9.1location, atmosphere
Hostal Las Natalias$$8.8beautiful surrounding, friendly staff
Hotel El Barranco$$$9.3breakfast, upscale hotel with pool


11. Queulat Glacier

Queulat National Park along the Carretera Austral in Patagonia
The Carretera Austral is full of Patagonia’s hidden gems!
Also located in the northern section of the Carretera Austral is the small town of Puyuhuapi, sitting beautifully on a fjord. It’s the perfect base for a short trip to the nearby hanging glacier of Queulat.

In Queulat National Park you can follow a short trail that takes you to a spectacular viewpoint overlooking the glacier. I recommend starting the hike as early as possible to enjoy the view before the day tours arrive.

Accommodation:

As with many other towns in this part of Patagonia, I found a place to stay on the spot right after arriving. That said, many accommodations are now available for online booking and I recommend booking in advance in the summer months:

BudgetRatingReasons to stay
Hostal Robinson$8.7simple but cozy private rooms, lovely hosts
Hostal Scarlett$8.3great value for money, helpful staff
Los Mañíos Del Queulat$$8.6cozy, delicious breakfast and good in-house restaurant
Eco Cabañas Wanderlust$$8.8beautiful bungalows just outside of Puyuhuapi
Cabanas Senderos Puyuhuapi$$$9.5spacious bungalows with great breakfast - ideal for families and groups


12. Cerro Castillo

The summit of Cerro Castillo is the highest peak in the region and attracts adventurous hikers
The summit of Cerro Castillo is the highest peak in the region and attracts adventurous hikers with its hanging glacier and turquoise lagoon.
For hiking lovers, the trek to Cerro Castillo is considered a true hidden gem in Patagonia. Some even say the multi-day trek around the castle-shaped mountain massif rivals Torres del Paine. I totally agree—on my last trip, this hike was one of my personal highlights in Chile.

Accommodation:

The only bookable and highly recommended place to stay is the Cerro Castillo B&B, which is located close to the park entrance and the start of the trail.


13. Marble Caves

The Marble Caves of Puerto Río Tranquilo are absolutely breathtaking
The Marble Caves of Puerto Río Tranquilo are absolutely breathtaking
Puerto Río Tranquilo sits on the shore of South America's second-largest lake and is a spectacular place to visit. Just a short boat ride from town lies one of the most unique natural chilean wonders: the “Capillas de Mármol,” or Marble Caves. As you can see in the photo, the journey to get here is well worth it and this spot definitely belongs on any list of places to visit in Chile and Patagonia.

Accommodation:

As with many other towns along the Carretera Austral, you can find simple guesthouses here. In summer, however, it’s a good idea to book in advance:

BudgetRatingReasons to stay
Los alamos$8.2value for money, central location
APART HOME COSTANERA$$8.9hospitality, central location
Apart Hotel y Cabañas Valle Exploradores$$$7.4central location
Chelenko Lodge$$$8.4incredible remote location by the lake


14. Patagonia National Park

View over Lago Cochrane from the nearby viewpoint
View over Lago Cochrane from the nearby viewpoint.
Patagonia National Park is the centerpiece of the conservation efforts launched by Douglas Tompkins. It’s home to the vast, raw beauty that makes Patagonia so special: glacial lakes, powerful rivers, epic mountain views and an incredible variety of wildlife. It's no wonder this park is among the most scenic places to visit in Chile.

The town of Cochrane is a great base for hikes in the park, especially with the Tamango sector located right on its eastern edge. From here, you can also access other areas of this massive park. Depending on the season, local transport and tour options are available from Cochrane.

Accommodation:

Cochrane now offers a small but solid selection of places to stay. Due to limited capacity, it’s smart to reserve ahead of time:

BudgetRatingReasons to stay
Hostal Lejana Patagonia (my choice)$8.0best value for price, good breakfast, basic rooms in very central location
Cabañas Rincon del Sur$$$9.4spacious but cozy bungalow located on a hill overlooking Cochrane
Kalfu Patagonia$$$$9.5modern apartments, good location, solid breakfast, great atmosphere
Hotel Último Paraíso$$$$9.6friendly staff, cozy, good breakfast


15. Tortel

Wooden walkways in Tortel
Wooden walkways in Tortel
Caleta Tortel is known for its wooden walkways and maze-like paths. The entire village is built on stilts over the water and is connected only by boardwalks and stairs – you won’t find any streets here. While wandering the wooden walkways, you’ll also come across statues commemorating the town’s founders who came all the way from Chiloé.

Its location at the end of a fjord and the unique wooden architecture make Tortel one of the most unforgettable Destinations in southern Chile.


16. O'Higgins Glacier

The O'Higgins Glacier at the southern end of the Carretera Austral
The O'Higgins Glacier at the southern end of the Carretera Austral
Villa O'Higgins is a place few travelers include in their Chile itinerary. That’s exactly why it’s so special – you’ll likely encounter only a handful of fellow adventurers here. Just getting there takes several days, so take your time.

Besides the glacier excursion, you can also start another unique adventure from here: the border hike to El Chaltén.

Accommodation:

To explore the attractions at the southern end of the Carretera Austral, I recommend staying at El Mosco Hostel. Due to the remote location, reservations are usually not necessary (this applies to dorms and camping). If you’re looking for more comfort, check out the Rumbo Sur lodge – a stylish mix of rustic charm and luxury, complete with a hot tub.

BudgetRatingReasons to stay
El Mosco Hostel-great atmosphere, best value for money, solid breakfast (private rooms)
Puesto Canogas Hostel€€9.6great breakfast, lovely hosts, good location
Hotel Rumbo Sur€€€€9.1very comfortable, exclusive lodge with good breakfast and great service


17. Torres del Paine

An unforgettable view of the Torres peaks in Torres del Paine National Park
An unforgettable view of the Torres peaks in Torres del Paine National Park
One of the most iconic places to visit in Chile is Torres del Paine National Park. A true paradise for trekking enthusiasts, landscape photographers, and nature lovers. You can explore the park through guided tours, day hikes, or multi-day treks.

Check out my Torres del Paine trekking guide for tips on how to plan your independent outdoor adventure.

Tours:

Due to high demand and limited availability of campsites and trail permits, joining a tour is often the easiest way to experience the park. Local tour operators have reserved spots, and you'll save yourself the hassle of organizing everything – this applies to both day trips and multi-day treks including guide services and transportation:

Accommodation:

Yes, the hotels located directly inside the park are pricey – but they also offer truly unique views and experiences that are hard to find elsewhere in Patagonia. If you’re looking for something extra special, these options are definitely worth considering:

BudgetRatingReasons to stay
Ecocamp Patagonia$$$9.1location, glamping at its best
Hotel Lago Grey$$$8.6close to glaciar grey, incredible viewpoints
Hotel Las Torres$$$$7.9tour options, most central location inside the park
Explora Patagonia$$$$$9.8Hands down one of the best and most exclusive places to stay in all of Patagonia!


18. Balmaceda Glacier

Boat tour view of the Balmaceda Glacier
Boat tour view of the Balmaceda Glacier.
The boat tour to the Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers is another unforgettable highlight located just outside Torres del Paine National Park. The tour starts in the town of Puerto Natales and is usually offered as a full-day trip by several local agencies. The package typically includes lunch on a traditional estancia and a whiskey served with glacier ice.

When you are back in Puerto Natales, take a short walk along the waterfront promenade for sunset – here you’ll also find an iconic statue of the Milodón, the prehistoric creature discovered in a nearby cave.

Close-up view of the Serrano Glacier after a short hike
Close-up view of the Serrano Glacier after a short hike.

Tour:

Due to its popularity, it’s best to book in advance. I reserved my spot two weeks ahead with the following company – they offered one of the more affordable packages and I had a great experience:

Accommodation:

Over the years, I’ve stayed in a number of places in Puerto Natales – I actually spent a total of five weeks here during my Patagonia trips. Here are my favorites accommodations:

BudgetRatingReasons to stay
Xalpen B&B$8.7best budget option, modern rooms, awesome panorama from common area, breakfast included (basic)
Yagan House$$9.3relaxed atmosphere, cozy common areas, in-house equipment rental, great breakfast, central location
Hostal Los Pinos$$8.7good location next to central square, great value for money, breakfast included (basic), friendly staff
Hostal Treehouse Patagonia $$$9.9lovely atmosphere, cozy and comfortable rooms, breakfast included, helpful staff
Toore Patagonia (***) $$$9.3well equipped spacious bungalows, modern design, comfortable and cozy, good location
NOI Indigo Patagonia (Boutique Hotel)$$$$7.9mountain lodge style, great location at the waterfront, awesome breakfast, sauna and spa
The Singular Patagonia Hotel (****) $$$$$9.5best hotel in town, luxurious and exclusive experience, pool, spa, incredible breakfast, on-site museum, on-site restaurant (best in town)


19. Isla Magdalena

Isla Magdalena near Punta Arenas is also known as Penguin Island
Isla Magdalena near Punta Arenas is also known as Penguin Island
We’ve now reached Punta Arenas, the largest city in southern Chile. Make sure to leave room in your itinerary for Isla Magdalena – just a short ferry ride away. The small island is home to more than 50,000 penguins, and daily boats operate under strict conservation guidelines to allow short visits.

Before heading to Isla Magdalena, make sure to stroll through Punta Arenas. Look out for the statue of Ferdinand Magellan in the main square, where locals and travelers rub the foot for good luck. From Punta Arenas, it’s also easy to continue your journey to Ushuaia. If time allows, this might even be your gateway to exploring the southernmost destination in Argentina as well.

Accommodation:

Punta Arenas has a good range of smaller hotels and guesthouses with solid value. I’ve used the city as a base multiple times and can therefore recommend several options:

BudgetRatingReasons to stay
Hostal Balmaceda8.0simple but budget-friendly & clean private rooms
Hostal Buenavista Patagonia9.5best value for money in town, nice rooms with good breakfast included
Apart Hotel Endurance€€9.0modern furnished apartments with Kitchenette, breakfast included
Apart Hotel Quillango€€9.1comfortable, spacious apartment in a good location, friendly service, breakfast included
Hotel Ilaia€€€9.2lovely small hotel with cozy atmosphere and great breakfast


20. Isla Navarino

Steve overlooking the peaks of the Dientes de Navarino
One of the most beautiful hikes in chilean Tierra del Fuego is the multi-day trek around the Dientes de Navarino!
From Punta Arenas, you can venture even further south to explore the most remote and adventurous destination in Chile. One way is by taking the 32-hour ferry ride to Isla Navarino – though there’s also a short flight option. Once there, the 4–5 day trek known as the “Dientes de Navarino” is a dream route that I did on my last trip to Patagonia:

This circular trek is demanding and only recommended for experienced hikers. You’ll need to be fully equipped, including GPS and solid camping gear. But if you're up for the challenge, the rewards in this part of the region are unforgettable.

Accommodation:

Even at the end of the world, you’ll find a few good places to stay. Availability is very limited though, so booking ahead is a must. I can personally recommend both El Padrino and Hotel Fio Fio. For something truly unique, check out the Errante Ecolodge:

BudgetRatingReasons to stay
Refugio El Padrino (Hostel & Camping)8.0Simple hostel with dorm rooms and an adjacent campground, shared kitchen, very kind host, great atmosphere, very budget-friendly
Hotel Forjadores€€8.3Cozy, family-run place with warm hosts, excellent breakfast included, central location, transfer to airport or ferry available on request
Hotel Fio Fio€€€9.7Great value for money, modern facilities, very cozy, good breakfast included, helpful hosts
Errante Ecolodge€€€€9.2Ecolodge in an exclusive location, very modern and cozy interior, fantastic breakfast included, unique panoramic view, shuttle service included, on-site restaurant


Chile Tours

Torres del Paine in Patagonia
If you only have 1–2 weeks, joining a guided tour is one of the best ways to see the top places to visit in Chile and Patagonia!
If you want to experience as much as possible but don’t have a lot of time—or if it’s your first big trip to this part of the world—a guided tour can be a great option. No need to stress about logistics, you’ll travel with like-minded people, and get plenty of local insight. These tours also combine well with a bit of independent travel before or after.

After working with G Adventures on trips in Peru, Cuba, Tanzania, Bhutan, and Costa Rica, I can highly recommend their small group tours. They focus on sustainability and support local businesses, which is exactly what I look for when choosing a tour:

  • Highlights of Chile & Argentina – a diverse 10-day tour covering top sights in Chile and a few must-see spots in Argentina. From Santiago to Valparaiso, Pucon, Bariloche, a Gaucho-style asado, and tango in Buenos Aires. Includes some meals, guides, hotels, domestic flights, bus travel, and several tours.
  • Discover Chile & Argentina – a 9-day National Geographic adventure through both countries’ cities and nature. Includes food experiences, waterfalls, lake hikes, and a tango class. Hotels, flights, guides, minibuses, ferry rides, and exclusive NatGeo experiences included.
  • Hike Patagonia XL – an active 14-day tour visiting the top trekking highlights in Patagonia: the W Trek in Torres del Paine, El Chaltén (Fitz Roy, Cerro Torre), and El Calafate (Perito Moreno Glacier). Includes meals, guides, camps, tents, hotels, transport, and porters.
  • Patagonia & Tierra del Fuego – a 14-day tour combining Patagonia’s best with Tierra del Fuego, including the W Trek, Fitz Roy, Perito Moreno Glacier, and Ushuaia. Meals, guides, accommodations, transport, and gear included.
A whiskey with glacier ice is part of the O'Higgins Glacier experience
A whiskey with glacier ice? Yep, that’s part of the O’Higgins Glacier experience!

Places to Visit in Chile: What Are Your Favorites?

With this post, I want to help you plan your trip to Chile. Have you been to Chile yourself? What places to visit in Chile would you personally recommend? If you have any extra tips on restaurants, hotels, hikes, or unique experiences across the country, I’d love to hear them—feel free to reach out via Instagram!


Note: This travel guide about the best places to visit in Chile includes affiliate links. These are all providers and services I personally use and trust. If you book through these links, you can support this blog at no extra cost to you. As always, all opinions, experiences, and sarcastic remarks are my own. If you found this post helpful, feel free to share it or bookmark it for your future travel planning.

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