Chile has enchanted us with its stunning landscapes, cultural diversity, and the warmth of its people. For several weeks our journey took us through the wild expanses of Patagonia, along the famous Carretera Austral, to the vibrant capital Santiago, and across the arid plains of the Atacama Desert. The longest country in the world offers a great variety that is hard to summarize in a list. Nevertheless, some places have particularly stuck in our memory—places that still make us smile when we think back on them.
In this list, you will find not only well-known and popular travel destinations in Chile but also a selection of lesser-visited attractions and hidden gems, off the beaten tourist paths.
Puerto Raúl Marín Balmaceda: Penguins, dolphins, and unspoiled nature
Nestled between volcanoes on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other lies Puerto Raúl Marín BalmacedaJust 80 kilometers from the main north-south axis, time seems to pass a little slower here. Originally planned for a short stay of three days, we end up staying a whole week. After this, we only reluctantly say goodbye to this sleepy gem.
Here’s why a visit to Puerto Raúl Balmaceda is worthwhile:
Pure Nature – Experience Penguins and Dolphins Up Close: One of the absolute highlights of Puerto Raúl Marín Balmaceda is its fascinating wildlife. The place is a paradise for animal watching. Here, you can find Magellanic penguins and dolphins, which can be observed directly from the beach – an experience that truly doesn’t happen every day. Camping on the beach and seeing these animals swim by right in front of your doorstep was one of the most special experiences of our trip!
A Place of Tranquility – Away from Noise and Hectic Life: Puerto Raúl Marín Balmaceda is a true oasis of peace. Surrounded by nature, the gentle sound of waves, and the coziness of Chilean rural life, you are far away from noise and hustle. Only a few people venture here. In this authentic, down-to-earth atmosphere, we let our souls unwind and thoroughly enjoyed doing nothing.
Outdoor Adventures – Kayaking and Hiking: For those who want to be a bit active alongside relaxation, Puerto Raúl Marín Balmaceda also offers some opportunities. The center of the island is covered with dense rainforest, through which several shorter hiking trails lead. Additionally, there’s the chance to explore nearby islands by kayak while observing penguins, dolphins, and sea lions up close.
National Park Patagonia: Hiking in the Heart of the Patagonian Andes
Der Patagonia National Park is undoubtedly one of the most impressive national parks in Chile and a true hiker's paradise. Nestled in the nature of the Patagonian Andes, it offers spectacular landscapes characterized by dramatic mountain ranges, crystal-clear lakes, and vast Patagonian steppe.
Here are some reasons why Patagonia National Park is one of our highlights:
The Flora and Fauna – A Paradise for Animal and Nature Lovers: Once one of the largest estancias (farms) in Chile, the park now protects around 253,000 hectares of land. It is one of the most important conservation areas in the region, providing a home to guanacos, vicuñas, condors, and pumas. The vegetation is characterized by robust Patagonian shrubs and wildflowers. A wild beauty along the Carretera Austral.
Experience Solitude and Nature – Hiking Away from Tourist Crowds: While other, more well-known national parks in Chile, such as Torres del Paine, are regularly overrun by tourists, this park is far less visited. Patagonia National Park is ideal for those seeking the tranquility and seclusion of nature. The hiking trails are less frequented, allowing you to wander through breathtaking landscapes for hours without encountering another soul. The further you venture into the park (towards the Chilean-Argentinian border), the more isolated and remote it becomes.
Crossing Paso Roballo – One of the Most Beautiful Road Trips Between Argentina and Chile: For those traveling with their own car or a rental vehicle, there’s an opportunity to reach or exit the park via Paso Roballo. This small border crossing between Chile and Argentina is one of the most scenic road trip routes connecting both countries. Those leaving Chile via Paso Roballo will need a Salvoconducto. It should be applied for online a few days in advance. The entire route is not only an adventure in itself but also a fantastic way to discover even more of the wild, untouched beauty of the region in both countries.
Chiloé: An island full of magic, tradition and impressive nature
Chiloé is an island full of magic and tradition, characterized by a unique mix of breathtaking nature and cultural treasures. The harsh climate, often riddled with clouds of fog and regular rainfall, as well as the green, gently rolling hills give the island a mystical atmosphere. From old wooden churches to charming fishing villages to wild coastal landscapes - Chiloé is an island like no other and one of our absolute highlights on the entire trip.
This is what makes the island of Chiloé so special:
UNESCO wooden churches - contemporary witnesses to the island's history: One of the cultural highlights on Chiloé are the historic wooden churches, which have been declared a world cultural heritage site by UNESCO. A total of 16 churches on Chiloé and the neighboring islands are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The churches are clad on the outside with traditional wooden shingles. Inside, the churches are usually colorful and magnificently decorated with complex colorful frescoes and religious depictions.
Palafitos – tradition on stilts: Another striking feature of Chiloé are the palafitos, the colorful wooden houses on stilts that can be found along the coast in towns like Castro. These architectural landmarks reflect the islanders' close connection to the sea. For generations, people here have lived in harmony with the sea and the palafitos are a symbol of this traditional way of life. The space under the stilts served and still serves as a place for boats used for fishing and transportation. Some palafitos now house restaurants and hotels. For visitors, the Palafitos offer a special photo opportunity, especially from the outside.
Pure nature – breathtaking coastal and landscape panorama:: Sanft geschwungene grüne Hügel, Sandstrände und majästätische Klippen. Chiloé bietet eine beeindruckende Vielfalt an Landschaften. Die wild-romantischen Küstenlandschaften Chiloés sind nicht nur ein Highlight für Fotografen, sondern eignen sich auch perfekt für Wanderungen, Kajakfahren oder Vogelbeobachtungen. Die ausgedehnten Wälder und Küstengebirgsketten bieten endlose Möglichkeiten, die atemberaubende Natur zu erkunden und dabei die Stille der Insel zu genießen. Nirgendwo sonst haben wir so viele Delfine beobachten können, wie an den wilden Küsten Chiloés.
Santiago de Chile – A pulsating adventure between history and modernity
Santiago de Chile is a lively and dynamic metropolis that combines modern architecture with historic charm. Surrounded by the majestic Andes to the east and rolling hills and wineries to the west, Santiago offers impressive landscapes in the immediate vicinity as well as exciting city life. The Chilean capital is a true cultural center where history, cuisine and art come together. Santiago is without a doubt one of the most exciting cities on our trip and there is certainly something to enjoy for everyone.
That's why we liked Santiago de Chile so much:
Historic Center - A look into Chile's history:Santiago's historic center is the perfect place to learn more about the history of Chile and the capital. The Plaza de Armas is home to impressive colonial buildings, including the Santiago Cathedral. A short walk leads directly to the Palacio de la Moneda, the presidential palace.
Another highlight in the historic center is Cerro Santa Lucía, a small hill in the middle of the city's historic center. From there, you have a spectacular view over the skyline of Santiago and the majestic Andes mountains in the background. It is the perfect place to admire the city from above.
Cerro San Cristóbal – Panoramic views of Santiago and the Andes: For even more breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding Andes, we recommend a visit to Cerro San Cristóbal. It rises 880 meters above Santiago and offers a wonderful view of the entire city and the peaks of the Andes. Cerro San Cristóbal can be climbed on foot or easily reached by cable car or cog railway. Whether it's a hike or a cable car ride - the view from above is sure to enchant you!
Santiago’s Barrios – Diverse neighborhoods with charm: Santiago is a city of contrasts, where each barrio (district) has its own charm and character. It is particularly exciting to discover the differences between the individual barrios during leisurely walks. Each neighborhood has its own vibe - from historic streets to modern hotspots.
Among the barrios, Barrio Italia is our absolute favorite! The trendy district offers Italian flair and a creative scene. Cozy cafés, design shops, and art galleries are lined up here. The relaxed vibe makes the district the perfect place to stroll, relax, or end the evening with a cozy glass of wine.
In addition to Barrio Italia, there are many other interesting neighborhoods. For example, Bellavista, the nightlife district, which attracts visitors with its colorful street art and numerous bars and restaurants. Or Lastarria, a cultural hotspot that invites you to feast with art galleries, cozy cafés and a diverse restaurant scene.
Culinary Discoveries in Santiago – the Mercado Central: Santiago is a true paradise for foodies. The city not only offers a variety of restaurants, but also numerous markets. The Mercado Central is particularly known for fresh seafood and fish. The Pacific is not far away and Santiago is supplied with fresh fish every day. The historic building itself, with its impressive metal construction, is already a highlight and a landmark of the city worth seeing. While you're here, be sure to stop by one of the restaurants in the market area and try typical Chilean fish dishes.
Carretera Austral – spectacular road trip through Patagonia
The Carretera Austral is more than just a road - it's an unforgettable road trip through some of Chile's most rugged and impressive landscapes. It runs 1,350 kilometers from Puerto Montt in the north to VillaO’Higgins in the south. It is often described as the most beautiful highway in the world. Along this route you will find an impressive density and variety of breathtaking nature, national parks, and charming remote villages. Here are some of our highlights. Note that this list is definitely incomplete and there are many other places worth seeing along the Carretera Austral.
Pumalín National Park – A paradise for nature lovers: The Pumalín Park is located directly on the Carretera Austral. Founded by American environmentalist Douglas Tompkins, the park offers an incredible variety of flora and fauna. A total of 402,392 hectares of temperate rainforest are protected here. This makes it the largest private nature reserve in Chile. Hiking trails lead through these ancient rainforests. A highlight is the hike to the active Chaitén volcano. From here you have a spectacular view of the sea and the clouds of smoke that rise from several places.
Queulat National Park - The Hanging Glacier: Queulat National Park is famous for its hanging glacier, which dramatically breaks off a rock face and flows into a thundering waterfall. This impressive natural wonder is one of the most spectacular sights in the region. There is a fantastic view of the glacier from the road. If you want to experience the beauty up close, you can marvel at the glacier up close as part of a hike.
Futaleufú – A paradise for adventurers: The charming town of Futaleufú is picturesquely surrounded by steep mountain slopes and lush forests on the border between Chile and Argentina. It is best known for the river of the same name, one of the world's best whitewater rafting rivers. The impressive rapids and crystal-clear waterways make the river a magnet for rafting fans from all over the world. The region also offers fantastic opportunities for hikes through nature, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Cerro Castillo National Park – A lesser-known gem:Cerro Castillo National Park is often touted as the “new Torres del Paine”. Compared to its more famous southern neighbor, Torres del Paine, Cerro Castillo National Park is significantly less visited. This makes it an ideal destination for hikers looking for peace and untouched nature. The hikes in the park lead through breathtaking landscapes, past turquoise lagoons and the imposing peaks of Cerro Castillo.
Catedral de Mármol (Marble Cathedral) - A unique natural wonder: The Marble Cathedral, “Catedral de Mármol” in Spanish, is one of the most spectacular sights along the Carretera Austral. These caves and arches were washed into the marble cliffs of Lake General Carrera over thousands of years. These are particularly impressive when exploring as part of a kayak tour. This offers the opportunity to marvel at the fascinating rock formations up close. If you prefer a more leisurely experience, you can also visit it on a boat tour. However, there is no possibility of paddling into the caves.
More exciting destinations along the Carretera Austral
There are countless sights along the Carretera Austral. We would have liked to visit a few more, but we simply didn't have the time for them.
Laguna San Rafael National Park and San Rafael Glacier: The San Rafael Glacier in the national park of the same name calves into a lagoon, with huge icebergs falling into the water.
Caleta Tortel: The remote village of Caleta Tortel is famous for its wooden footbridges and walkways that connect the entire village.
Villa O’Higgins: Villa O’Higgins marks the southern end of the Carretera Austral. Hikes to the O'Higgins Glacier start from here, and there is the option to hike to Argentina via a challenging trail. Villa O’Higgins is a dead end. If you drive this far, you have to drive back a bit.
Malalcahuello: A natural paradise at the foot of the Lonquimay volcano
The idyllic Malalcahuello nature reserve is nestled in the Andes and is a small, relatively unknown natural paradise. We got the insider tip in a small shop in Temuco. Malalcahuello attracts with a spectacular volcanic landscape that is ideal for both adventure and relaxation. The famous Conguillío National Park is nearby, but Malalcahuello itself also offers a lot to discover.
Lonquimay Volcano – Impressive scenery and adventure:The imposing Lonquimay volcano is the landmark of Malalcahuello. In summer there are hiking trails that lead through the fascinating lava stone landscape and in winter the volcano is transformed into a ski area. If you've always wanted to ski on an active volcano, this is the right place for you. The climb to the crater is not easy. A less demanding tour leads to the neighboring Crater Navidad, northeast of the main crater. This short hike offers spectacular views over the lava fields and surrounding volcanoes.
Araucaria forests – prickly tree giants:The region is also known for its araucaria forests, among other things. These ancient trees are among the oldest tree species in the world. The falling araucaria seeds can be collected and used in a similar way to pine nuts. Araucaria seeds are an integral part of the cuisine of the Mapuche, the local indigenous population.
Hot springs – relaxation in a natural environment:Where there are volcanoes, there are usually hot springs. You can find some of these “termas” around Malalcahuello that invite you to relax.
Conguillío National Park and Llaima Volcano – A trip into the wild beauty of Chile:In the immediate vicinity of the nature reserve you will find the Conguillío National Park. This protects the regional araucaria forests and is home to crystal-clear lakes and several volcanoes. The active Llaima volcano dominates the backdrop of the park. There are some wonderful hikes here, through the araucaria forests and to beautiful lagoons.
Conclusion: Chile offers the right destinations for every travel taste
Chile is a country of extremes and diversity - from the barren Atacama Desert, to the green, remote regions of Patagonia. Whether you're exploring the vibrant capital of Santiago, hiking through the wilderness of Patagonia National Park or enjoying the tranquility of the coast of Chiloé, Chile offers the perfect place for every taste and level of adventure.
You may have noticed that some of the most famous tourist destinations such as Torres del Paine National Park or the Atacama Desert are not on our list. We visited both places, but they are not among our personal highlights. This is mainly because these goals were too crowded for us. We prefer places that are spared from the masses of tourists, where we can intensively experience and enjoy the peace and seclusion of nature. Our list therefore includes destinations that have particularly touched us and that we would visit again and again.
Have fun planning your own trip through this impressive country in South America.
