A Travel Freedom Podcast Guest Post
Travel and tourism is booming – according to Groupon an astonishing 6.4 trillion GBP is spent in the sector every year. In South America, Chile is one of the main countries that tourists are flocking to in increasing numbers – and it’s not hard to see why. Chile is a country bursting with the beautiful and unexpected – a holiday playground boasting incredible cultures, intimate moments and jaw-dropping landscapes. Stretching over a few thousand kilometres, this slender slice of land expands from ice-rimmed peaks to hot, dusty
desert lands, cradling countless spectacular sights and experiences between them.
Whether you’re looking to hike irresistible mountainscapes, gaze at exotic wildlife or laze on warm sun-soaked shores, Chile contains a pinch of adventure to go with every desire. Here are five of the most unmissable places you’ll find.
1. Santiago
The capital of Chile and haven to wine lovers from around the globe, Santiago is a vibrant city located right between the Pacific and the Andes mountains. Besides being an ideal weekend romantic getaway by the beach, this is also a great place to do some shopping, visit local pisco sour bars and soak up some indigenous culture. And if you’re here in the summer, skiing on the Andes is a brilliant way to enjoy the scenic views and wildlife all around. The city itself is a maze of quaint roads, with soulful street art around every corner. Santiago is also popular for its rich variety of natural attractions, delectable street food, and collection of stunning museums – a fantastic combination for a memorable adventure.
2. Torres del Paine National Park
The rugged, majestic peaks of the Torres make for the perfect Instagram-worthy finish to a challenging hike. Featuring serene blue-green icy waters, the beauty here often leaves travellers wonder struck at the raw power of nature’s best kept secrets. The park, also known by locals as ‘the end of the world’ is a world heritage site that attracts countless hardy nomads every year. If you’re looking for an adventure here, make sure to travel light – wear strong hiking boots, take sunscreen and pack a few quick-drying clothes to take with you.
3. Elqui Valley
While many tourists visit Chile’s Norte Chico to lounge on the soft sands at La Serena’s beaches, not all of them find the beauty waiting off the beaten track hidden at Elqui Valley. This ethereal destination, besides being the country’s top pisco-producing area, is also a prime location for star gazing and admiring the Chile eclipse. And if you’re feeling adventurous, Elqui Valley is also a great place to do some horseback riding or go camping under the star-studded skies. Other things to do here include pisco tasting and exploring the renowned Gabriela Mistrál museum.
4. San Pedro de Atacama
Located in Chile’s remote northern corners, this is a mesmerising desert scape featuring jaw-dropping topography and beautifully clear skies throughout the year. Book a trip here for an indulgent vacation packed with glorious sunsets, beautiful views and luxurious thermal baths. Top attractions here include the Church of San Pedro and the R. P. Gustavo Le Paige Archaeological Museum. This city is also the best gateway into the Atacama desert where countless escapades await the daring wanderer.
5. Valparaiso
A bustling holiday ground for the bold and artistic, this little coastal city overflows with rich culture, fascinating urban design and excellent street art. Valparaiso is Chile’s second largest city and is blessed with a smattering of heavenly beaches and gorgeous natural beauty. Travellers here can enjoy some truly delicious seafood, great nightlife and even get a taste of true Bohemian culture. Other attractions here include the stunning harbour, historic museums, and opulent shopping malls.
