In the far north of Chile, close to the Argentine and Bolivian borders, San Pedro de Atacama is the gateway to one of the world’s most extreme environments: the Atacama Desert. This guide will help you plan your trip and find the best that the town has to offer.
Spend four days taking advantage of the natural beauty of the town and hinterlands of San Pedro de Atacama. Visit geysers, volcanoes, valleys and salt flats on this trip around the arid Chilean plateau and be wowed by the formidable grandeur of the Andes at every turn.
Spend your trip exploring San Pedro de Atacama, a laid-back oasis town on the edge of the driest desert on the earth. Revel in the stark beauty of the desert landscape, marvel at the dramatic scenery, and enjoy some of the world's best stargazing while enjoying the cozy hospitality and art in town.
Mountain bikers, this one's for you! Cycle through the Atacama Desert off the beaten path and into areas not yet accessible by vehicle, only currently frequented by llama and goat herds. Small villages, geysers, lagoons, valleys, archaeological ruins, Andean wildlife, and spectacular panoramas crowned by dormant volcanoes await!
Explore the Atacama desert in the Antofagasta region of Chile, starting at San Pedro de Atacama, a laid-back oasis town on the edge of the driest desert on the earth. Revel in the stark beauty of the desert landscape and marvel at the dramatic scenery while enjoying the cozy hospitality and art in town.
This journey in the Atacama desert takes you to some of the most spectacular desert scenery on the planet. You’ll see sputtering geysers, salt flats where flamingoes roam, and gorgeous sunsets over otherworldly rock formations. This Chilean adventure is for active-minded travelers, with biking and hiking among astonishing Andean landscapes.
One destination that should be on any traveler's list of must-visit desert landscapes is Chile's northern Atacama region. It's an arid, high-altitude desert filled with incredible natural wonders, including salt flats, geysers, lunar landscapes, painted mountains, and towering volcanoes. This quick six-day itinerary covers the highlights, including stops in the remote colonial outpost of San Pedro de Atacama, tours of the Moon Valley, stargazing, visits to natural hot springs, and traveling to indigenous villages.
The north of Chile and Argentina are packed with natural wonders, plus rich colonial and Indigenous history. You'll experience it all on this 10-day itinerary, beginning with tours of Santiago and the coast before jetting north to the geysers, lagoons, and lunar valleys of the Atacama Desert. Then hop the border into Argentina and stroll the colonial streets of Salta, followed by adventures around the famed northern deserts.
Explore two spectacular regions of Chile where few travelers venture on this nine-day itinerary. After checking out Santiago, you'll fly to the Atacama desert—an oasis in the driest part of the world known for geysers, salt flats, and starry skies. From here, head to Patagonia, where you'll experience Torres del Paine National Park via a range of activities while staying in a fully sustainable EcoCamp.
On this itinerary, you'll get to experience the two most beautiful regions of Chile: the northern Atacama Desert and southern Patagonia. Your adventure begins in the capital city of Santiago, where you'll glean insight into the culture on a city tour. Then, it's off to the north and the otherworldly desert landscapes of Atacama. You'll visit geyser, lunar valleys, and even do some high-altitude stargazing. Finally, you'll head to Chile's unspoiled Patagonia region, where you'll visit one of the most unique sites on the continent: the marble caves of Lago General Carrera.
This 10-day trip takes you through some of Chile's most dramatic high desert landscapes. Arrive in Santiago, then head to San Pedro de Atacama. Go stargazing in Cuchabrache, visit a traditional Indigenous village, explore the Atacama Salt Flat, and go hiking at Punta del Inca. Trek to Río Grande Village and explore the Altiplanic Lagoons, then hike through the Rainbow Valley and visit the Tatio Geysers before heading home.
Immerse yourself in the colorful tiny town of San Pedro de Atacama and discover geysers, volcanoes, valleys, and salt flats amidst the arid Chilean desert. Lose yourself in the cosmopolitan city of Santiago, walk through its many squares, and marvel at the diverse architecture that makes this city a unique metropolis in Latin America all while being wowed by the grandeur of the Andes.
This seven-day itinerary affords just enough time to take part in one of the most epic journeys in South America: the multi-day 4x4 adventure from San Pedro de Atacama, in northern Chile, to the town of Uyuni, in southern Bolivia. Your journey starts in the town of San Pedro, an ancient desert outpost in Chile's northern Altiplano (high plateau) region. You'll take a tour of the lagoons around the Atacama Desert, and then you'll embark on the four-day journey to Uyuni. Along the way, you'll be awestruck by the seemingly endless salt flats, towering volcanoes, and painted mountains. You'll even overnight in a guesthouse made out of salt!
This week-long itinerary allows you to experience central Chile's major cities and wine regions and the arid desert landscapes in the country's north. First, you'll arrive in Santiago and take a city tour before discovering the nearby wilderness and wine country. Then, it's a trip to the coastal seaport and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Valparaíso. Afterward, you'll jet off to the Atacama Desert in the north, where you'll visit the Indigenous villages, geysers, painted mountains, salt flats, and lunar landscapes for which the region is deservedly famous.
Explore two regions of Chile where few travelers venture on this 9-day itinerary. After checking out Santiago, you'll fly to the northern coast for day trips to offshore islands and Elqui Valley wine country. From here, head to the Atacama desert—an oasis in the driest part in the world known for its geysers, salt flats, and starry skies. If that's not enough, you'll also meet local indigenous communities on a guided cultural excursion.
Explore the geysers, volcanoes, valleys and salt flats of San Pedro de Atacama. Discover the unique lake district including the Osorno Volcano, the tiny town of Frutillar and the mythical Chiloe Island.
On this scenic Chilean adventure, explore several regions of the country over the course of nine days. Begin in Santiago, and tour the landmarks and markets. Then, embark on two day trips—one to the neighboring towns of Viña del Mar and Valparaíso, followed by an excursion to explore the beauty of Maipo Valley. Next, venture into the Atacama Desert region to discover the valleys, geysers, and villages, along with memorable sunrises, sunsets, and stargazing.
This itinerary allows you to experience the major cities and wine regions of central Chile and the arid desert landscapes in the country's north. First, you'll arrive in Santiago and take a city tour before discovering the nearby wilderness and wine country. Then, it's a trip to the coastal seaport and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Valparaíso. Afterward, you'll jet off to the Atacama Desert in the north, where you'll visit the Indigenous villages, geysers, painted mountains, salt flats, and lunar landscapes for which the region is deservedly famous.
From cosmopolitan Santiago to cosmic stargazing in the Atacama Desert, this brilliant seven-day itinerary takes you from the capital city to the world's largest salt flat. Taste typical Atacameño dishes with a local family, wander the lunar landscapes of Moon Valley, taste sustainably-grown Chilean wine at the source, and spot flamingoes on Chaxa Lagoon. Along the way, you'll discover the rhythms of daily life in remote Atacameño villages and support the work of local and Indigenous guides.
This 12-day trip to Chile takes you through several areas—the capital city, desert landscapes, coastal towns, and ancient islands. First, go sightseeing in Santiago, followed by a journey through the Atacama Desert region. Then, visit the coastal neighboring towns of Viña del Mar and Valparaíso and tour the stunning Maipo Valley. The finale leads you on an adventure through historical Easter Island, from moai stone figureheads to beautiful beaches.
The lunar landscapes of Chile's Atacama Desert take center stage on this weeklong family adventure. Start with a tour of Santiago, then climb the hilltop neighborhoods of Valparaíso by vintage funicular. Fly north to reach the otherworldly expanses of the Atacama Desert, where a kid-friendly itinerary of excitement and exploration awaits—from stargazing with high-powered telescopes to diving into buoyant salt pools, watching powerful geysers erupt, and deciphering ancient rock art.
Have an alternative honeymoon with this biking and hiking adventure trip through gorgeous Chile. Arrive at Santiago, Chile's lively and eclectic capital before beginning a bike tour through the vineyards of Casablanca. Alternate physical activity with wine tours as you cross this region's magnificent landscapes. Then, you'll change it up by traveling to the Atacama Desert. One of the driest places on earth, this desert presents challenges and beauty in equal parts, and is perfect for hiking.
Discover Chile's famous Atacama Desert and Lake District on this 11-day adventure. Tour the historic capital Santiago before delving into the Atacama's otherworldly landscapes, exploring its lunar-like salt flats, flamingo-filled lagoons, and spurting geysers. You'll stargaze and ride desert buggies, soak in geothermal pools, and end with a trip to Chile's lush Lake District for bird spotting on Chiloé Island.
Nine to 11 days is the most popular trip length for Chile travelers interested in visiting both Santiago and the Atacama Desert, especially when also including Torres del Paine. If you're not interested in Torres del Paine, seven to eight days is enough for your Santiago and Atacama Desert trip. A fast-paced highlights trip is possible in four to six days for travelers with limited time. Check out the below favorite Santiago and the Atacama Desert trips.
Experience remote deserts, sparkling lakes, and soaring volcanoes on this family-friendly 10-day tour through two of Chile's most spectacular regions. Get your bearings in Santiago before heading north to the otherworldly Atacama Desert, where the kids can swim in salt lagoons, stargaze under clear night skies, and bounce through the dunes on a buggy tour. Jet south to Patagonia next and dive into the famous Lake District with kayaking, hiking, and penguin-spotting adventures.
Explore moonscapes in northern Chile and icy landscapes in the south during this 10-day family adventure. Learn about the stars as you gaze up at the Atacama Deserts' clear night skies, and pack your swimsuits to splash in high-altitude lagoons and salt pools. Then it's off to Chile's southern tip and the wilds of Patagonia, where you'll walk among the country's largest penguin colony, hike the trails of Torres del Paine National Park, and sail along the towering walls of an ancient glacier.
Go from the glittering skylines of Santiago to the lunar landscapes of the Atacama Desert and the glacial rivers of Patagonia on this 10-day Chilean adventure. You'll start by seeking out Santiago's colonial heart and eating fresh seafood in colorful Valparaíso before leaving civilization in the dust for the northern deserts. Explore adobe villages, steaming geysers, and star-studded skies before jetting south to Puerto Río Tranquilo to kayak through marble caves and spot wildlife on a Patagonian glacier cruise.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the Andes on this 12-day South American intinerary. Starting in Chile, you'll tour the bustling capital of Santiago and explore the arid Atacama Desert before flying north up the coast to Peru. After sampling the culture and cuisine of Lima, discover the rich Incan history of Cusco and set out to explore the iconic archaeological sites of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.
Explore some of South America's most astonishing landscapes on this 11-day nature tour of Chile. First, head north to Atacama to ride e-bikes and buggies through the desert, watch the sunrise over steaming geysers, and gaze at stars through powerful telescopes. Then, go south to the glacial terrain of Patagonia to spend several days climbing and hiking through lakes, forests, and peaks in Torres del Paine National Park.
Chile may be a small country geographically, but it's filled with some of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in South America and the world. Over a quick nine days, you'll discover the furthest reaches of this ecological paradise, from the otherworldly landscapes of the northern Atacama Desert to the native lenga forests and active volcanoes of the rugged Lake District, which is also known as the "doorstep to Patagonia." And to kick it all off, you'll discover Santiago and Valparaíso, two of Chile's most beautiful cities.
Stretching thousands of miles in length, Chile can feel a world away with its mountains, glaciers, deserts, and rugged coastline. This 12-day trip hits the highlights with a series of unique guided tours. Move at a relaxed pace as you make your way from the Atacama Desert in the north, to Patagonia in the south. You'll also make urban stops in Santiago, Valparaiso, and upscale Viña del Mar for two days of beachy fun.
Explore regions on both ends of Chile's latitudinal spectrum with this 10-day itinerary. After getting a taste of Santiago, fly north to the Atacama desert—an oasis in the driest part of the world known for geysers, moonscapes, and starry skies. Then, fly all the way south to Patagonia's Punta Arenas, where you'll meet a penguin colony before finishing in Torres del Paine National Park for a range of activities and wildlife viewing.
This 13-day trip combines two bucket-list items in Chile, rarely visited by tourists. Kick-off with a day in Santiago before you're jetting off again—this time to the South Pacific. Halfway between Tahiti and Chile, Easter Island is graced with white sand beaches and 600+ mysterious statues carved from volcanic rock. The second half of the trip takes place in a high-altitude desert on the mainland with sand dunes, geysers, hot springs, and starry skies—perfect for sipping Chilean wine.
This extensive 12-day itinerary covers the major highlights of north, south, and central Chile—the Lake District, Torres del Paine National Park, and the Atacama Desert. The Lake District is famous for its charming villages, Prussian-blue lakes, and snow-capped volcanoes. Torres del Paine, on the other hand, is the crown jewel of national parks to explore in Patagonia. Throw in a visit to a Patagonian penguin colony and a jaunt to the mystical and beautiful island of Chiloé, and you have the perfect Chilean adventure.
Explore three distinct areas of Chile with this 10-day itinerary. After getting a taste (literally) of the big city and its nearby wine region, fly north to the Atacama desert—an oasis in the driest part of the world known for geysers, moonscapes, and starry skies. You'll then base yourself in a German-style lake town while taking day trips to volcanoes, waterfalls, and an exotic rainforest along the coast.
On this itinerary, you'll get to experience the many different faces of Chile. You'll have the opportunity to explore Chile's culturally-rich cities, taste premium Chilean wine, and take in some of the country's most stunning landscapes. First, tour Santiago along with the colorful coastal cities of Viña del Mar and Valparaiso. Next, explore the world-famous wine regions surrounding Santiago - you'll learn all about how Chilean wine is made, and more importantly, how it tastes. Then it's off to the north and the otherworldly desert landscapes of Atacama. You'll visit geysers, lunar valleys, and even do some high-altitude stargazing. Finally, you'll head to Chile's unspoiled Patagonia region, where you'll visit one of the most unique sites on the continent: the marble caves of Lago General Carrera.
Experience three distinct regions in Chile with this 12-day itinerary that combines culture and outdoor adventure. After a taste of Santiago and its nearby wine region, fly north to the Atacama desert known for geysers, moonscapes, and starry skies. You'll then fly south to the Chilean Lake District for volcanoes, waterfalls, and a road trip to Chiloé Island—a burgeoning foodie destination with coastal hiking trails.
This 10-day itinerary takes you from Chile's capital to two of its most dramatic and secluded destinations. After touring the modern metropolis of Santiago and visiting the colorful seaside towns of Valparaíso & Viña del Mar, change gears and set out toward one of the most remote islands on earth. Spend three days discovering the iconic monoliths and windswept beaches of Easter Island, then return to the mainland to end your trip among the breathtaking landscapes of the Atacama Desert.
Thin and uniquely long in shape, it can be hard to know where to start in a country like Chile. This 13-day itinerary explores three distinct regions known for urban culture and outdoor adventure. After a taste of Santiago and its nearby wine region, fly north to the driest desert in the world known for geysers, moonscapes, and starry skies. Then fly south to the Lake District for volcanoes, waterfalls, and a road trip to Chiloé Island—a booming food destination with coastal trails.
Experience Chile's beautiful extremes on this 10-day journey. Begin your adventure in the Atacama Desert—a region characterized by its lunar landscapes, geysers, salt flats, and starry skies. Next, head south to Patagonia to experience Torres del Paine National Park. Here, you'll enjoy an in-depth exploration of the park's natural beauty, including a hike to the base of the iconic towers and an up-close look at the majestic Grey Glacier during a boat tour.
This diverse 10-day itinerary takes you on a journey from south to north as you visit three of Chile's most iconic regions. Start in remote Patagonia, where you'll explore the granite peaks, azure lakes, and rushing waterfalls of the famed Torres del Paine National Park. Sample the culture and cuisine of the capital in Santiago, then end your adventure in the far north—stargazing under desert skies and discovering the otherworldly landscapes of the Atacama.
For most travelers, nine to 11 days is the perfect amount of time for a Chile trip with stops in Santiago, the Atacama Desert, and Torres del Paine. If you don't mind a fast-paced journey, you can see the highlights of this route in less time—as few as seven or eight days. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—some favorite itinerary extensions include Punta Arenas, Puerto Varas, or Easter Island. Keep reading for more inspiring Santiago, Atacama Desert, and Torres del Paine itineraries.
Travel to the furthest reaches of Chile for outdoor adventures in the arid northern deserts and southern Patagonia. This 10-day luxury itinerary begins with tours of the otherworldly landscapes in the Atacama Desert, followed by a trip south for trekking in Patagonia's Torres del Paine National Park. It's not all roughing it, however, as during the journey, you'll stay in 5-star hotels and dine at some of the world's best restaurants.
Explore Chile from several angles with this 10-day kid-friendly tour of its highlights. Starting in vibrant Santiago, you'll make your way through the otherworldly landscape of the Atacama Desert and view the world's clearest night skies. Head back to Santiago and take a trip up the Cajón del Maipo into the Andes before relaxing on a tour of Chile's finest wine and cuisine in the Casablanca Valley and Valparaíso. With some classic beach time thrown in for good measure, this trip has something for all ages.
Travel from Chile's sun-blasted deserts to its lush Lake District on this weeklong luxury tour. The adventure begins in the capital, Santiago, where historic city tours and gourmet dining at world-class Boragó await. Next, escape to the world's highest and driest desert, the Atacama, where you'll stargaze and explore otherworldly salt flats and moon-like valleys. End in Puerto Varas, your base for scenic flights over the Lake District's volcanoes, forested valleys, and national parks.
See another side of South America on a 10-day tour of Chile that will take you from the northern altiplano deserts to the South Pacific—in luxurious, 5-star style. It starts with the highlights in Santiago and a trip to the colorful coastal enclaves of Valparaíso and Viña del Mar. Then, fly north to explore the lunar valleys of the Atacama before jetting off to Rapa Nui (Easter Island) for active adventures amid the legendary moai.
Experience two different sides of Chile on a quick but luxurious adventure around its northern deserts and South Pacific islands. After a quick taster of Santiago, you'll dive into the altiplano salt flats and geological wonders of the Atacama Desert—complete with a morning hot-air balloon ride—before jetting off to the remote beauty of Rapa Nui (Easter Island). Along the way, you'll stay in some of the country's finest 5-star hotels and embark on a series of customized private experiences.
Discover Chile's contrasting landscapes on this luxury 10-day tour. Start with historic city tours and gourmet dining in Santiago, then escape to the remote Atacama Desert to explore its never-ending salt flats, lagoons, and moon-like valleys, waking for dawn hot-air balloon rides and stargazing by night. The adventure ends in the lush Lake District, where you'll admire the volcano-and-lake spotted landscape with private helicopter, seaplane, and kayaking tours.
Travelers to Chile typically plan a trip for 12 to 15 days when combining Santiago, Easter Island, and the Atacama Desert with Torres del Paine. If you're not interested in Torres del Paine, 10 to 13 days is enough for your Santiago, Easter Island, and Atacama Desert trip. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as a week to nine days. For the best itineraries, including Santiago, Easter Island, and the Atacama Desert, keep reading below.
Twelve days to two weeks is the most popular trip length for Chile travelers interested in visiting Santiago, the Atacama Desert, and Puerto Varas, especially when also including Torres del Paine. If you're only headed to Santiago, the Atacama Desert, and Puerto Varas, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in nine to 10 days. With less time, it's still possible to see the highlights in as few as seven to eight days. Read on for the best itineraries, including Santiago, the Atacama Desert, and Puerto Varas, and beyond.
Introduce your intrepid little ones to three of Chile's standout destinations on this family-friendly two-week tour. Start in Santiago to stroll historic plazas and parks, ride funiculars through the hills of Valparaíso, and taste Chilean wine (and grape juice) at local vineyards. Then, it's off to the Atacama Desert for lunar landscapes, ancient petroglyphs, and steaming geysers. Jet south into Patagonia to wrap up your trip with kid-focused outdoor activities in the land of mountains, glaciers, and penguins.
This two-week Chilean adventure will take you to its most scenic regions: the northern deserts, coastal wine country, and the wilds of southern Patagonia. And though this itinerary is jam-packed with outdoor activities, you won't sacrifice anything in terms of comfort—it's first-class treatment the whole way. Stay in luxury hotels and dine at the finest restaurants in between astronomy tours, visits to salt flats, glacier hikes in Torres del Paine, wine tours in the Casablanca Valley, and more.
Throughout the long expanse of Chile are diverse landscapes ranging from glaciers and Patagonian peaks to arid deserts and vast salt flats. On this two-week luxury tour, you'll embark on adventures through such high-altitude deserts, plus fly south for a bit of fun in the Lake District, a region famous for its charming Germanic towns and snowcapped volcanoes. An added treat includes a few days in the capital of Santiago for gourmet dining, wine tasting, and sightseeing.
Delve into Chile's diverse culture and natural landscapes over two weeks, beginning with a visit to Santiago. The capital is your gateway to the wineries and villages of the lush Cajón del Maipo region, Colchagua Valley, and Isla Negra. Head to La Serena next to stargaze at the Mamalluca Observatory, tour pisco distilleries in the Elqui Valley, and cruise the Humboldt Penguin National Reserve. End in the arid Atacama, where you can sandboard desert dunes, ride a hot-air balloon, and brave "Death Valley" by bike.
This 13-day itinerary covers the major highlights in and around the Andes, including the northern Atacama Desert, the central Lake District, and Torres del Paine National Park. There's even a break for wine tasting in Chile's famous vineyards. This is a partial road trip, so you can set your own schedule and explore however and wherever you like.
Monumental archaeological mysteries, natural phenomena, and urban life are all part of this 11-day Chilean itinerary. From sprawling Santiago to the awe-inspiring Atacama Desert and Easter Island, each moment of your trip will offer opportunities for memorable experiences. Travel by air, car, hot-air balloon, bike, and horseback for a dynamic adventure through South America and across the South Pacific.
This comprehensive 15-day tour allows visitors to see the most interesting cities and regions in the whole of Chile. Moreover, some of this adventure is of the self-drive variety, meaning you'll get to hop behind the wheel and make it a road trip. It begins in the capital of Santiago with excursions to nearby Valparaíso and Viña del Mar, two of the most beautiful coastal cities in the nation. Then, it's off to the high-altitude deserts of the northern Atacama and its otherworldly landscapes. The tour culminates with road trips in the Chilean ecological wonderland known as the Lake District.
This 15-day odyssey will take you to some of Chile's most fascinating sites and spectacular landscapes. Get to know the bustling city of Santiago, see the driest desert in the world at San Pedro de Atacama, marvel at glaciers in Torres del Paine National Park, and learn about Chile's colonial history in the scenic lakeside town of Puerto Varas. Cap off your adventure with a food tour of Santiago's best restaurants and a trip to Colchagua Valley wine country.
Feed your adventurous soul with this 15-day tour of Chile. Begin in Santiago with bike tours of the city and visits to Chile's wine country for tastings of its best varietals. Then, it's off to the Andes Mountains and the Atacama Desert, where you'll travel through the mystical Moon Valley and swim in saltwater lagoons. Fly south to Patagonia to see the penguins of Magdalena Island in Puntas Arenas, then close the trip by hiking the mountains and glaciers of Torres del Paine National Park.
Explore Chile's beautiful extremes on this 11-day itinerary. After getting a taste of Santiago, fly north to the Atacama desert—an oasis in the driest part in the world known for its geysers, moonscapes, and starry skies. Then, travel south to Patagonia's Torres del Paine National Park to challenge yourself on the W-trek, a world-famous route that will take you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes the park has to offer.
Experience the scope of Chile on a grand tour of three of its most famous regions: Santiago, the Atacama Desert, and southern Patagonia. In Santiago, tour colonial landmarks before flying north to Atacama, where you'll stargaze on the Altiplano, see spouting geysers, and embark on a desert safari. The third act takes you to Patagonia to visit penguin colonies, explore massive glaciers, and hike around the soaring peaks of Torres del Paine before returning north for some wine tasting to send you off in style.
This action-packed 16-day itinerary takes you from the bustling capital to the iconic Torres del Paine National Park. Start the trip with free time in Santiago, followed by a day trip to Viña del Mar and Valparaíso. Your next stop is the Atacama Desert, where you can discover its lagoons, rock formations, and starry skies. Then, meet the resident penguin colony on Isla Magdalena before heading to the national park for guided tours and solo hikes. Return to Santiago for a guided culture tour to finish the adventure.
Experience the highlights of diverse and beautiful Chile in less than two weeks. Begin in the capital Santiago with some sightseeing, before flying off to the Atacama Desert. Discover the lagoons, geysers, salt flats, and more. Then, fly to Punta Arenas for your Patagonian adventure. Visit the native wildlife of the islands, and then head into Torres del Paine National Park for two days of private tours. The final leg takes you to Easter Island to explore the ancient moai figureheads, volcanoes, and stunning beaches.
Travelers flock to Chile from all over the world to visit three principal regions, and this 11-day itinerary has all of them covered. First, it's a trip to the north of the country and the Atacama Desert, where you'll do some stargazing and tour the otherworldly landscapes. Then, it's a flight to the southern Lake District and its enormous lakes, wild rivers, and snowcapped volcanoes. Finally, you'll end up in the far south, in Patagonia, where you'll spend a day exploring the most famous national park in the country: Torres del Paine.
Is it possible to experience the highlights of a famously diverse and beautiful country like Chile in just under two weeks? In this instance, yes. Over 13 days, you can visit all the wonderful sites that have graced the covers of travel magazines for years. You get it all: the northern Atacama Desert, Patagonia—even the far-flung mystical island of Rapa Nui, better known as Easter Island to us foreigners. So pack a bag, get your hiking gear ready, and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.
To first-timers in Chile, visiting this country is like happening upon a great secret. Its natural beauty is as diverse as it's extensive. Throughout the length of this narrow, 2,653-mile (4,270-km) country, there are high-altitude deserts, a lake region abounding with volcanoes and wild rivers, and, of course, the primal and unspoiled beauty that is Chilean Patagonia. You'll get to visit all three of these regions on this extensive 15-day itinerary, and you'll even find time for wine tasting.
There are few natural events as spectacular or memorable as a full solar eclipse, and on this 13-day tour of Chile in December 2020 you'll watch the amazing event from the clear skies of Pucon. As well as dedicating a full day to watching the eclipse, you'll tour many of Chile's other highlights, including the modern capital Santiago, the historic port city of Valparaíso, the excellent wineries of the valleys, and the unparalleled natural beauty of the Atacama Desert, plus much more. This comprehensive tour fits in a lot of different sights and experiences and is sure to be memorable.
Most travelers will find that 10 to 13 days is perfect for a well-paced Chile trip with stops in Santiago, the Atacama Desert, Torres del Paine, and Punta Arenas. It's also possible to hit the highlights in a week to nine days if you don't mind a fast-paced journey. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another region like Puerto Varas, Valparaíso, or Easter Island. Get inspired with the below Santiago, Atacama Desert, Torres del Paine, and Punta Arenas trip ideas.
Most travelers will find that 12 to 15 days is perfect for a well-paced Chile trip with stops in Santiago, Easter Island, Atacama Desert, and Torres del Paine. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—some favorite itinerary extensions include Punta Arenas or Valparaíso. Get inspired with the below Santiago, Easter Island, Atacama Desert, and Torres del Paine trip ideas.
Discover the incredible diversity of Chile's landscapes on this action-packed two-week adventure. Get to know the vibrant capital of Santiago, then head into the arid and otherworldly environs of the Atacama Desert. Venture south to Patagonia to hike to the towering peaks of Torres del Paine National Park before flying across the South Pacific to explore the mysterious icons and windswept coastlines of Easter Island.
The secret's out: Chile is one of the most naturally beautiful countries in Latin America, which places it high in the running for one of the most naturally beautiful countries in the world. This two-week adventure covers three of its most incredible regions. The first major stop on the itinerary is the northern Atacama Desert, which is famous for its lunar landscapes, steaming geysers, and expansive salt flats. Then, it's off to Torres del Paine, the most-visited national park in Chilean Patagonia. Finally, you'll visit Rapa Nui, or Easter Island as it's commonly known, to discover the secrets of its great stone idols.
Unveil Chile's diverse highlights from north to south with this far-reaching, two-week family trip. From Santiago, you'll fly to the otherworldly Atacama Desert for stargazing and gentle hikes through its lunar landscapes. Encounter enigmatic moái statues and play on the volcanic beaches of Easter Island, then fly south to Patagonia to finish your adventure amid the penguins of Isla Magdalena and the dazzling mountain landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park.
Immerse yourselves in Chile's natural beauty on this gently paced two-week family adventure that's perfect for families of all ages. Set out from Santiago for a day trip into the lush Maipo Valley, then fly to Easter Island to explore its remote beaches and mysterious statues. Jet south to the Patagonian Lake District for outdoor excursions in its national parks and thermal spas, and end in the country's far north, where the kids can dive into salt pools and spot constellations in the remote Atacama Desert.
Hop between deserts, mountains, and lakes on this two-week family trip through Chile. Bookended with a stay in Santiago, you and the kids will float in salt pools in the Atacama Desert, sail to penguin-filled islands in the Lake District, and visit glaciers and national parks in Patagonia. An itinerary of gentle hikes and scenic boat rides will keep young adventurers entertained, while relaxed excursions like a winery picnic, an alpaca farm visit, and a day trip to colorful, coastal Valparaíso will delight all ages.
Outdoor adventurers rejoice—this curated 15-day itinerary immerses you in the unparalleled natural beauty of Chile. First, you'll head to the far north of the country and tour the otherworldly landscapes of the Atacama Desert. Then it's off to Patagonia and Torres del Paine National Park, home to the most awe-inspiring mountains and unspoiled nature in Chile. You'll then finish the journey far west in the Pacific, amid the mysterious stone idols of Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island.
Experience the best of Chile's landscapes and culture, from Santiago to the Atacama Desert, with this 15-day itinerary. The journey begins with leisure time to explore the capital before heading to northern Patagonia to kayak the Marble Caves and see the San Rafael Glacier. From there, head to Punta Arenas to paddle the Strait of Magellan and see penguins on Isla Magdalena. Continue the trip with Torres del Paine National Park hikes, boat rides to glaciers, and a stargazing tour in the Atacama Desert.
Most travelers will find that 14 to 15 days is perfect for a well-paced Chile trip with stops in Santiago, Easter Island, Atacama Desert, Torres del Paine, and Punta Arenas. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in 11 to 13 days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include Puerto Varas or Valparaíso. See more ideas for Santiago, Easter Island, Atacama Desert, Torres del Paine, and Punta Arenas itineraries below.
"Best" is no hyperbole—this 16-day journey covers the most beautiful and culturally rich areas of Chile, from the mainland to the South Pacific. You'll arrive in the northern Atacama Desert to explore geysers, lunar valleys, vast salt flats, and more. Then, travel south to rugged Patagonia as you visit penguin colonies in Puerto Natales, marvel at massive glaciers, and hike around Torres del Paine National Park before flying to Rapa Nui (Easter Island) to experience its legends and ancient ruins.
This 12-day itinerary combines ancient culture and ancient landscapes with the profound natural beauty of Chilean Patagonia. From the northern deserts of the Atacama region to Torres del Paine National Park, you'll experience the full spectrum of Chile's natural beauty. This also includes a jaunt to Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island. Here, you'll walk in the footsteps of ancient cultures and marvel at the great stone idols—the moaia—that were built to honor ancient tribal chieftains and still stand today.
On this two week trip, you’ll visit many of the classic places that have made Chile an iconic country for travelers and mountaineers alike. You’ll journey to places like the Atacama Desert and the Patagonian glaciers as you discover a land of myths and mountains. You’ll also have the chance to stay in Santiago and Valparaíso to get a sense of Chile’s city life.
Get a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see a total solar eclipse in Chile on this special tour in December 2020. As well as dedicating a full day to viewing the eclipse at Pucon, you'll tour many of Chile's other highlights, from the modern capital Santiago to the historic port city of Valparaiso, and the natural beauty of the Andes. Fit a wide variety of unforgettable experiences into nine days.
