Among Chilean specialty tours are those focusing on wine production, desert flora and fauna, trout fishing, stunning Patagonian landscapes and geology

Chile boasts some of the world’s most varied and dramatic landscapes squeezed between the Pacific Ocean and the base of the Andes, one of world’s great mountain ranges. To comprehend Chile’s diverse geography, imagine a single country stretching from Baja California through California, the Pacific northwest coast and up to the Alaskan Panhandle. Chile’s length—including the entire length of its jagged coast and islands—is an amazing 12,606 km in all, making it the 19th-longest country in the world when measured by coastline, and the second-longest in South America.

Once thought of as remote beyond the reaches of most travellers, Chile is now one of the most modern and convenient travel destinations in South America, with contemporary infrastructure and comforts, and an outstanding reputation for safety. Combined with its booming economy and strong peso, that also means prices in Chile are high in comparison with the rest of the continent. Among Chilean specialty tours are those focusing on wine production, desert flora and fauna, trout fishing, stunning Patagonian landscapes and geology.

Modern Chile reflects Spanish, Basque, British, German and Croatian ancestry, but the bulk of the population is mestizo. Even so, there are still a million indigenous Mapuche in the south, a nation that remained autonomous until the late 19th century.

Advisor tips for Chile

Lodges

Explora Atacama –Chile
Well run lodge with philosophy that destination is the attraction and accommodation integral part of the stay with luxurious feel. All inclusive – food, bar, gratuities and touring. - Paul

Explora Easter Island -Chile
Brand new lodge with Explora philosophy that destination is the attraction and accommodation integral part of the stay with luxurious feel. All inclusive – food, bar, gratuities and touring. – Paul

Must Do Experiences

Easter Island –Chile
Trek to Mount Terevka 506 metres above sea level, to see the Island from its highest point. Also visit the island’s largest volcanic crater Rano Kau. - Paul

Atacama Desert –Chile
Drive to the salt pans of Laguna Miscanti and Laguna Miniques – highlight is the fantastic scenery on the cusp of theAndesMountain range. Horse riding through the surrounding desert and sand dunes. - Paul

The Moais Statues – Easter Island
Worth the flying and travelling time to see them – they are awe-inspiring!! - Paul

UNSECO World Heritage sites in Chile

Rapa Nui National Park
Churches of Chiloé
Historic Quarter of the Seaport City of Valparaíso
Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works
Sewell Mining Town