In the Andes outside Panguipulli, in the region of southern Chile's lakes and volcanoes, the waters of Lake Pirihueico offer an adventurous and little-used portal between Argentina and Chile.

The special biological diversity of the Juan Fernández archipelago is best experienced with a pair of flippers or a sturdy pair of boots.

The route of the 2012 Dakar Rally traverses the beautiful extremes of northern Chile's Atacama Desert, offering drivers stunning views of the desert backcountry as they cross sand dunes and ancient pack routes between Copiapó and Arica.

The biggest party of the night will be in Chile's bohemian port city of Valparaíso, with a dazzling firework display and thousands of revelers on the streets.

For the third year running, Chile made the list of the world's top 10 "best ethical destinations," compiled by the Ethical Traveler.

The muted colors of the arid peaks surrounding the Elqui Valley mark a distinct contrast with the rolling green vineyards and fertile cultural history in this travel destination in northern Chile.

The Araucanía Region is home to an important offering of companies and businesses aimed at developing Mapuche tourism experiences.

Many business moguls, Hollywood actors, politicians and royals have visited Chile in search of some of the world's most unique landscapes, as well as top class hotels and adrenaline-pumping outdoors activities.

The 2011 Dakar Rally wasn't just the wildest, most extreme endurance automobile race of the year - it was also the "greenest" in the event's history, with solar powered electricity, recycling and biodegradable tableware.

Successful tourism companies are key to making sure local communities can enjoy the tangible benefits of tourism-related development.