The best cities in Chile according to what type of traveler you are

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In Chile you will not only find a variety of unique landscapes, which run from imposing glaciers to the driest desert in the world, but also multicultural, modern and colonial cities with an amazing architecture.

If you’re prepared to go on your dream trip, we will show you the city in Chile that you must visit according to what type of traveler you are. Urban, bohemian fans of nature, adventurers and chill, everyone has a place in our country!

Santiago, the capital of urban explorers

Santiago, the capital of Chile, is the perfect destination for urban and cultural travelers. Travelers who enjoy the noise of big cities will consider Santiago a diverse offer.

You can visit museums such as the Museum of Memory and Human Rights, the National Museum of Fine Arts or National Natural History Museum. Moreover, for shopping and cuisine fans, neighborhoods like Bellavista and Lastarria offer a wide variety of restaurants, bars, attractive shops and markets.

Urban adventurers can also enjoy spectacular views from the San Cristobal hill or Santa Lucia hill, which are located in the center of the city, and it’s perfect for a short walk or to take a stroll outdoors.

Valparaíso: A destination for bohemians

Valparaíso is a colorful and vibrant city that attracts especially bohemian and artistic travelers. Its architecture is unique, narrow streets are filled with urban art and its famous hills are perfect for those who look for an authentic cultural experience.

The port of Valparaiso, with its scenic elevators and with a lot of bars and restaurants, invites us to dive into its mazes full of history. Moreover, travelers interested in history and culture can visit Pablo Neruda’s house, La Sebastiana, and the National Maritime Museum, that gives the city a unique vibe of history and creativity.

Punta Arenas is for nature and adventure lovers

If you are a traveler looking for big adventures in incredible and challenging natural environments, we recommend you visit Punta Arenas, the entrance to the Magallanes Region and the Chilean Antarctic.

With its proximity to the Torres del Paine National Park and the well-known Isla Magdalena, where you can see penguins, it is a world class destination for travelers who are looking for outdoor activities such as hiking, fauna observation and navigation.

Tourists can also explore the Strait of Magellan, a key point in the history of navigation. For travelers who love extreme fauna and impressive landscapes, Punta Arenas is a unique experience at the end of the world.

Get to know Concepción, the city for rock fans

Concepción is key city for travelers interested in history, culture and music of Chile, especially those who enjoy instruments like guitar, bass and drums. That’s why it is known as the city of rock!

It is one of the main cities in the Biobío Region and it’s surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes such as Nonguén National Park, which offers ecotourism activities.

Travelers interested in the local culture can also enjoy music and theatrical festivals that stay for the whole year. Moreover, its closeness to the shore and ocean allows travelers to enjoy nearby beaches, like Dichato or Ramuntcho Beach.

Relax and natural connection in San Pedro de Atacama

Romantic Experiences San Pedro

San Pedro de Atacama, located in the driest desert in the world, is perfect for adventure travelers who want to explore unique and impressive landscapes.

A few kilometers away from Calama, where the closest airport is located, you’ll get to know the Moon Valley, with Altiplanic Lagoons and Tatio geysers, one of the biggest geothermal lands in the world.

In this environment you’ll find unique relaxing activities such as taking a bath in the hot springs of Puritama, floating in the salt waters on Cejar Lagoon or contemplating the stars at some of the local astronomic observatories, thanks to the clear skies and the low light pollution. The connection with nature is actually there!

Valdivia for ecotourism lovers

Valdivia is a perfect destination for travelers interested in ecotourism, history and colonial culture. This southern city, surrounded by lakes, forests and parks, offers a back-to-outdoor experience through activities like hiking and sailing trips on the Calle-Calle and Valdivia rivers.

You’ll get to know the Selva Valdiviana, a rainy forest located at the end of the world. In fact, it is the most southern in this category.

Travelers that enjoy history and architecture can also explore the German heritage in the city, visible in its buildings, breweries and typical cuisine. We recommend you visit the Botanical Garden at the Universidad Austral, the local museum, the Saval Park and the famous brewery Kunstmann.

Iquique, the paradise of extreme sports

Iquique is known for being the capital of adrenaline for adventure travelers. Located in the Atacama Desert, this coastal city is famous for its extreme sports, specially sandboarding, paragliding, surfing and stand-up paddle.

Travelers who look for strong emotions will find a wide variety of outdoor activities in Iquique.

Moreover, its colonial architecture in neighborhoods like Baquedano and the relaxing vibe makes the city a perfect place for those who like to combine adventure and resting. Iquique is also famous for its closeness to Isluga Volcano National Park.

Do not go to Carretera Austral without knowing this

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If you have already decided that your next trip is going to be the Carretera Austral in Chile, we will show you where it starts, how to travel around, its unmissable places and all the information that you should know.

The Carrera Austral, known as the most beautiful scenic route in the world, is a highway located in the south of Chile. It starts in the district of Puerto Montt and 1,247 kilometers later, there is a glacier bed near Villa O’Higgins.

It is ideal to hire a vehicle and start your dreamful road trip in Chile. You will love its forest, fauna, reserves, glaciers and national parks!

Where does it begin and how do I get to the Carretera Austral?

The Carretera Austral begins in Puerto Montt, a city where you can arrive by airplane, taking the flight that goes from Santiago to El Tepual airport.

However, the real starting point for the Carretera Austral is Hornopirén, which is less than three hours by land from Puerto Montt airport. Some of its unmissable places are Rio Blanco waterfall, Hornopirén National Park and El Manzano cove.

The Carrera Austral has forests, glaciers and national parks. Photo: Sernatur audiovisual bank.

Unmissable places on the Carretera Austral

The the Carretera Austral is known around the world for its unique beauty, and because it will always show you something new. Whether it’s a small town that you have never heard of, a different landscape or the people you meet on the way, you will love everything.

Anyhow, there are some destinations considered as “unmissables” by the most experienced travelers. Get to know them!

Carretera Austral

The Marble Caves are an unmissable part of the Carretera Austral in Chile. Photo: Sernatur audiovisual bank.

Carretera Austral map

If you have already made up your mind to travelon the Carretera Austral from north to south and to have unique adventures, you have to consider that there are different entry points and ways to move around.

You can move around by vehicle, bicycle or ferry!

Do I need a VISA for Chile? Entry requirements for the European Union

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If you are keen on coming to Chile from a European country, you must know the entry requirements for our country. We will answer your questions!

If you are from Spain, Germany, France, Italy or from the United Kingdom, and you are planning on traveling to Chile this year, it is necessary that you know every entry requirement for Chile, with attractive nature located at the end of the world.

Do I need a VISA for Chile?

While some countries from around the world need previous authorization to enter Chile or a VISA, the majority of the nations of the European Union don’t need it if the stay is up to 90 days.

As a result of this, if you have a Spanish, German, French, Italian, or British passport, you won’t have to go through any additional procedure.

Bear in mind that if you want to stay for more than 90 days in the country, you may ask for an extension for your stay at the Servicio Nacional de Migraciones, dependent on the Home Office.

Requirements to come to Chile

Even if a VISA is not necessary if you come from a European country, you must meet other requirements.

  • Have ready your hotel booking in order to be verified, or an invitation letter signed in the presence of the Chilean notary. Always prefer accommodations registered with Sernatur, which you can check on the search section clicking here.
  • You also must show your certification of finances through a copy of the bank account or otherwise, to certify the possession of, at least, USD $ 46per day to stay in Chile.
  • Have your passport or your ID to hand, as appropriate. Click here for more information.

Mandatory requirements to enter Rapa Nui

Once you are in Chile, you will be probably interested in visiting Rapa Nui Island and getting to know the stunning moais, its culture, cuisine and traditional dance. You may know that this territory has its own requirements which are summarized below.

  • You must fill out a Unique Entry Form in advance to land on Rapa Nui. You can find the document clicking here.
  • Have your return ticket ready with a limit of 30 days, including the departure and arrival dates.
  • Book a tourist service registered with SERNATUR , or an invitation letter processed by the Provincial Delegation
  • A guide is required to enter the facilities and lands which belong to the Rapa Nui National Park
  • Get your ticket to have a look at the Rapa Nui National Park online here.
  • You cannot enter with Melliferous products (derived from honey)

From One Piece to Pokémon! References to Chile in animes

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The most famous animes and mangas in history have their eyes on Chile and constantly make incredible references to our country.

One Piece, Pokémon, and Knights of the Zodiac are some of the Japanese animes that have referred to or mentioned Chile during their time on air.

Just like Pirate Luffy from One Piece, our country is one of the main characters in these animations that have captivated the international audience with their adventures, jokes, and airtime.

One Piece and its tight relationship with Chilean wine

Chilean wine is internationally known by winemakers, consumers, and lovers of this drink.

In countries like Japan, it is common to see shelves in supermarkets, convenience stores, department stores, and liquor stores, filled with this grape wine.

Chilean wine is so famous in Japanese lands that in episode 509 of the anime One Piece titled “Contact! The Great Swordsman Mihawk – Zoro’s Struggle of Willpower,” you can see a bottle of Chilean wine with the written phrase “Tarapacá,” name of one of the 15 Chilean regions. This happens in minute 4:57 of said episode.

It is known by the fans of the series that its creator, the mangaka Eiichirō Oda, loves wine.

One of the characters from One Piece, the marine lieutenant commander, Fullbody, even has that name because of the concept of “full body,” which is given to wines of great texture and weight in the mouth, but it would not be weird for him to be a fan of the national wine. It is really delicious!

Mewtwo and Probopass, the Chilean Pokémon

Thanks to Mew’s DNA on February 6th, one of the most iconic and powerful Pokémon was created, Mewtwo. What only a few people know is that this psychic type was born on Isla Nueva, a territory that belongs to Chile in real life.

Isla Nueva is an insular territory in the south of Chile, in the southeastern part of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago at the southernmost tip of South America.

Another reference to Chile in the anime is related to Probopass (in the main picture), a fourth-generation Pokémon inspired by the Moais of Rapa Nui. It also wears a pukao on its head, or a hat made of red volcanic scoria.

The Chilean Knight of the Zodiac

You have surely heard of the adventures of Saint Seiya and the Knights of the Zodiac, but you probably do not know that one of its characters is Chilean!

We are talking about Scylla Io, who appeared in the anime in episode 102, when he faced Andromeda Shun to protect the Pillar of the South Pacific.

According to the manga that inspired the Knights of the Zodiac, Scylla Io was born on the island of San Félix, part of the Juan Fernández Archipelago. Moreover, during his teenage years, he lived in Santiago and studied at the Instituto Nacional, one of the most emblematic educational establishments in our country.

“Traditional Route” in Chile, Unique Products and Their Cultural Heritage Value

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If you have come this far, it is because you want to learn in-depth about Chile’s “Traditional Route,” which is made up of products created by artisan women that you can find only in our country.

Chilean craftsmanship directly reflects the culture and traditions rooted in our territory from north to south, from the mountains to the sea. When you buy Chilean craftwork, you also bring a piece of our country into your home.

Keep reading and discovering their manufacturers, who brought unique and unrepeatable works of art to life.

The amazing wheat braiding of Itata

The products made of wheat straw use a single braid technique, which combines naturally dyed straw with trees and fruits native to our territory.

This craft of braiding wheat is one of the symbols of Chile, and it comes from the district of Ninhue in the Itata Valley, Ñuble region. As a matter of fact, the chupalla, a traditional hat used by the Chilean huaso, is crafted using this technique that local families have preserved.

According to the artisan Marcela Parra, the elaboration process is complex, and the product is handmade from start to finish. It starts with harvesting old wheat that is only sowed in the Itata Valley, and after that, the colchanera women start braiding it. In that way, unique products, like wall decorations, baskets, chupallas, and others, are crafted.

Wheat espigueros made by Marcela Parra. Photo: Red Artesanía.

Traditional Pottery from Quinchamalí

In Chile, you will find Quinchamalí pottery, also from the Itata Valley. These pieces are known for their striking black color and distinctive decorative shapes.

The dyeing of this ancestral technique is made of horse guano and was created by our native peoples, mainly by the Mapuche. It is still alive, thanks to the talented hands of the artisans.

Nayadet Núñez is one of them, known by the Chilean State as a Living Human Treasure. She is a well-known Chilean potter who has dedicated her life to preserving and renovating the rich tradition of Quinchamalí pottery.

Her efforts were worthy of the Regional Craftsmanship Award in 2022, a testimony to her commitment to the culture and art of her land.

Nayadet is part of the artisanNow platform, which seeks to reduce inequality and generate sustainable financial freedom for thousands of artisan women in Chile and Latin America, strengthening their economic autonomy and preserving their cultural identity.

Nayadet Núñez poses next to one of her creations. Photo: UPA Chillán

Rari mane and its colorful art

And what about those butterflies? How can we not see them, since the horsehair butterflies in the Maule Region will never go unnoticed. This type of craftsmanship is made in a small town in Central Chile named Rari, which was recognized by the World Crafts Council as a World Craft City.

Once these natural fibers are cleaned, the local artisans begin weaving and creating beautiful pieces inspired by the flora and fauna surrounding them.

A total of 45 artisan women from Rari participate in the project and digital platform Artesanías Chilenas, where their products can be purchased.

In addition to these beautiful butterflies, they elaborate other products such as necklaces, earrings, and glass markers, among others.

“The Must-See Sites in Chile” Arrives on YouTube to Show Our Destinations

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Chile Travel and Chile es Tuyo have teamed up to launch “The Must-See Sites in Chile,” a new web series hosted by the renowned athlete and TV personality, Pangal Andrade.

Starting today, the first two episodes of this exciting production will be available on Chile Travel’s YouTube Channel.

In “The Must-See Sites in Chile,” Pangal Andrade invites us to discover the most amazing spots of our country.

Through six episodes full of adventures, the athlete and nature enthusiast takes us to diverse landscapes, cultures, and flavors that make Chile a unique destination in the world.

What will you see in “The Must-See Sites in Chile”?

  • A complete tour: Pangal takes us to explore the regions of Tarapacá, Aysén, Ñuble-Maule-Biobío, Los Lagos, O’Higgins, and Atacama in six stunning episodes full of adventures.
  • More than just landscapes: The series not only shows the most important tourist destinations but also introduces us to the people who live in these places and brings us closer to their rich cuisine.
  • Guaranteed adventure: Chile has been recognized as the Best Adventure Destination in South America, and in “The Must-See Sites in Chile” we will be able to enjoy the adrenaline and excitement offered by our landscapes with activities such as sandboarding, rafting, and paragliding.

Where can you watch “The Must-See Sites in Chile”?

The first two episodes of “The Must-See Sites in Chile” will be available on the Chile Travel YouTube Channel. A new episode will be uploaded every two weeks.

Click here and access the full list.

Chilean cuisine: Why is it one of the best in the world?

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For lovers of food and fine dining, Chile is an incredible destination. Our complex geography and great extension give us unique diversity filled with colors, scents, and flavors which are out of this world.

Gastronomic websites such as Taste Atlas rank us among the 32 best cuisines in the world, while specialized rankings like The Best include national restaurants on their lists.

What makes Chilean cuisine so special? Why is it considered to be one of the best in the world? Keep reading and discover the secrets of our national cuisine.

Chilean cuisine, from the sea to your table

We are privileged in Chile! With more than 4,300 kilometers of coastline in a straight line and huge seamounts, we have species of fish, shellfish, and seafood that you will not find in any other part of the world.

The environmental conditions like the cold Humboldt current, which covers a large part of our territory, and the rich minerals of the depths of the Pacific Ocean, allow for the growth of delicious seafood.

We recommend:

At restaurants and in seafood markets across Chile, you will find oysters, scallops, clams, sea urchins, crabs, abalones, and red sea squirts, as well as fish with an incredible flavor like conger, hake, and even tuna from the island of Rapa Nui (Easter Island) which is located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.

Moreover, you cannot leave Chile without trying lobster from Juan Fernández and Chilean king crab.

Ancestral cuisine filled with tradition

Creole cuisine in Chile is filled with tradition and culinary heritage that comes from our native peoples like the Mapuche, Aymara, Rapa Nui, Atacameño, Quechua, Colla, Diaguita, Chango, Kawésgar, Yagán, and Selk’nam.

We recommend:

Chilean ancestral cuisine is well-known for using ingredients like quinoa, cooked wheat, corn, pine nuts, and cochayuyo (seaweed). It also tends to use mushrooms with amazing flavors like changles and digüeñes.

Haute cuisine and fusion food

The wide variety of ingredients and raw materials produced in Chile, as well as the creativity and professionalism of our chefs, have led to the success of haute cuisine restaurants in our biggest cities and tourist destinations like Santiago.

We recommend:

The latest gastronomic ranking of The World’s 50 Best, ranked seven Chilean restaurants in the top 100 in Latin America.

They highlighted the proposals of Boragó (5), Yum cha (54), Pulpería Santa Elvira (57), La Calma By Fredes (62), Demencia (66), Casa Las Cujas (72), Olam (78), and Karai by Mitsuharu (98). All of these restaurants are in Santiago, the capital of Chile.

Photo: [@Boragoscl]

The Chungungo, the most tender animal in Chile

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The chungungo (Lontra felina), also known as sea otter or chinchimén, has been crowned the new ambassador of Chilean fauna, and no wonder.

This small carnivorous mammal, considered one of the most tender mammals in Chile, conquers hearts with its fluffy fur, big eyes, and playful behavior. In addition, its choice highlights the importance of protecting the coastal biodiversity of our country, as it is one of the most endangered species of extinction.

Photos: @turismos_orca

Chungungo characteristics

The chungungo is the smallest member of the otters, reaching up to 90 cm in length (including its tail) and an average weight of 3 to 5 kg. Its fur is thick and dark brown, protecting it from the water’s cold. It is an expert swimmer with webbed feet and a streamlined body designed to explore coasts and coves in search of its favorite food: fish of different families, mollusks, crustaceans, and sometimes birds and small mammals.

This solitary and territorial animal usually lives in natural shelters such as caves or rock crevices. Unlike other otters, it rarely ventures offshore, preferring to stay close to the coast.

Where can Chungungo be seen?

The chungungo inhabits the Pacific coast exclusively, from Perú to the Magallanes region in Chile. Its best sightings occur in protected areas such as:

  • Pan de Azúcar National Park (Atacama Region): Its coves and rocks are ideal to observe this tiny swimmer.
  • Chiloé Island: It is commonly seen in coastal areas such as Cucao or Quellón.
  • Fjords of Patagonia: From Aysén to Magallanes, the chungungo finds refuge in the calm channels and fjords.

Photos: @lagartija_sin_cola

Care and threats of the Chungungo

The chungungo faces multiple threats that have reduced its population, so it is classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

  • Coastal pollution: Plastic and chemical waste affect their habitat and food source.
  • Poaching: In the 20th century, intensive hunting was done for the fur industry.
  • Intensive fishing: Reduces food availability and can lead to bycatching.
  • Construction of roads and works near marine ecosystems.
  • Animals such as dogs and cats attack the populations (adults and young) when they are on the rocks.
  • The destruction of this species’ habitat directly impacts their diet, affecting the kelp forests. The extraction of huiros and seaweed leaves the crustaceans, fish, and mollusks that depend on this vegetation to survive unprotected, depriving the chungungo of one of its primary food sources.

To protect it, it is essential to respect its environment: avoid littering on beaches, promote responsible tourism, and support conservation initiatives.

Photos: @felipe.wildphotography

Chungungo: New Chilean wildlife ambassador for the year 2025

With more than 2,000 votes, and thanks to an initiative promoted by the Jane Goodall Institute Chile Foundation and the Museo Interactivo Mirador (MIM), the chungungo was chosen as an ambassador of Chilean Wildlife Day 2025 because it represents the richness and fragility of marine fauna. His election seeks to raise public awareness of the need to protect our coastal ecosystems and conserve the unique species that depend on them. This small symbol of resilience and natural beauty reminds us of the importance of preserving our biological heritage for future generations.

Do you dare to discover the chungungo and join in its protection? If you visit their habitats, do it with respect and affection, leaving only footprints and taking away unforgettable memories.

Ranking with the 5 places in Chile that you must visit in 2025

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Here you have a ranking with the five places in Chile that you must visit in 2025 according to international press, with details about its location, how to get there, entry prices and more. These destinations offer unforgettable experiences, from unique natural landscapes to cultural and urban adventures. Book in advance!

Cochamó: The Yosemite of South America

National Geographic has compared Cochamó with the famous Yosemite National Park located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range in California, highlighting its granite walls ideal for climbing, and its biodiversity, home of species such as the huemul and the pudú. The Cochamó Valley received its first protection and was declared Nature Sanctuary: “The new natural sanctuary, which will likely expand, protects 11,400 hectares of coastal wetlands, Andean glaciers and evergreen forests”.

  • Location: Llanquihue District, Los Lagos Region, southeast of Puerto Varas.
  • How to get there: From Santiago, take a flight to El Tepual, the closest airport to Puerto Montt and Puerto Varas. The latter is the ideal place to take ground transport to the town of Cochamó (approximately 2 hours).
  • Prices: The Access to the valley is free, but it is mandatory to register and book camping in advance during peak season. Camping fees from $8,000 CLP per night.
  • Tickets: Bookings at Bookings Cochamó Valley.

Photos: @nemventures_

The Abastos Route: Among the greatest places in the world

Time magazine included the Abastos Route on their list of the greatest places in the world for 2025, highlighting the work of its farming communities with the purpose of strengthen the local economies with the commercialization of gastronomic tourism experiences: “But true luxury is relishing her maritime banquet at a fishing shack nestled between the rocks and the waves”.

  • Location: Secano of the O’Higgins Region, in the center of Chile, which covers the districts of: Navidad, Litueche, La Estrella, Marchigüe, Paredones, Pichilemu, Pumanque, Lolol, and the western part of Chépica and Santa Cruz.
  • How to get there: To get to this route you must head towards San Fernando, in the O´Higgins Region along Ruta 5 Sur, take Ruta 90 to the coast, heading to Santa Cruz. From there you travel along the I-72 highway to Lolol. If you want to go to Paredones (Bucalemu) you can stay on the same route. From there you must take the I-60 highway to Pumanque (27 minutes by car). Once you finish the tour you must take the Tuta I-72 and Ruta 90 to Marchigüe (28 minutes by car). From there you can go back to Santa Cruz along Ruta 90.
  • Prices: The prices depend on the route you choose and range from $25,000 CLP.
  • Tickets: Bookings at Abastos Route. There are currently nine different experiences along the route, and three more in preparation for the 2024-25 summer season.

Photos: @rutadelosabastos

Santiago: The lead city in South America

Winner at the World Travel Awards as best destination in South America, Santiago shines for its mixture of modernity and tradition, as well as its views of the Andes. It is located only one hour and a half from the beach or the snow.

  • Location: Metropolitan Region, political and social capital of Chile.
  • How to get there: Santiago is the main entry point to Chile, with direct flights from many cities in the world.
  • Prices: Visiting emblematic sites like the San Cristóbal Hill or La Moneda Palace is free. Access to the Sky Costanera, for example, has a price of $18,000 CLP for adults and $6,000 CLP for kids.
  • Tickets: You can get tickets for attractions like the Sky Costanera on their official websites.

Photos: Sernatur Photobank

Ski Centers: The best prices in the snow

The Clarín highlighted the Chilean ski centers as the most accessible in South America. Places like Valle Nevado, La Parva, El Colorado and Corralco combine quality and competitive price: “Another significant advantage when choosing Chile as snow destination is the possibility of paying in US dollars without additional taxes. That way you can estimate a budget in a more effective way and fully enjoy your stay.”

  • Location: Mainly in the Metropolitan and Araucanía regions.
  • How to get there: From Santiago, Valle Nevado, El Colorado, and La Parva are located approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes by car. Corralco is located 2 hours from Temuco.
  • Prices: The daily tickets depend on the place you want to visit. Make the most of the offers during the low season.
  • Tickets: Buy directly on the ski centers websites such as Valle Nevado, El Colorado, La Parva and Corralco.

Photos: Sernatur Photobank

Chilean Volcanoes: The best on the continent

According to La República, the Villarrica, Osorno, and Llaima volcanos stand out for their majesty and trekking possibilities: “Chile, a land of natural and geographical wonders, has some of the most impressive and active volcanoes in the world”.

  • Location: The Osorno volcano is located 47 km from Puerto Varas, and it is located in the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park. The Villarrica volcano is located in the Villarrica National Park, and the Llaima volcano is located inside the Conguillío National Park (148 km from Temuco).
  • How to get there: To the Villarrica volcano, get to Pucón from Temuco (1 hour and 45 minutes by car). Osorno volcano is near Puerto Varas, and you can go to the Llaima volcano from the Conguillío National Park located in the Araucanía Region.
  • Prices: The prices depend on the type of activity you do, such as trekking, and flora and fauna watching, among others.
  • Tickets: Buy online at cl

Photos: @on.vagabonde

Cruce Andino: Sailing among lakes and volcanos in the south of Chile

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Discover beautiful landscapes from the south of Chile by doing the Cruce Andino (Andean Crossing), where you’ll cross the Andes Mountain Range and you’ll get to know magical places such as the Todos los Santos Lake, the Saltos del Petrohué and the ecological village of Peulla, until reaching Puerto Varas.

Whether with by tour operator or on your own, don’t miss the opportunity to go on this journey and take with you an everlasting memory. We will tell you about the amazing destinations that make up the Cruce Andino in Chile here.

Main photo: @gonzarcosb

Peulla will welcome you to Chile

From Bariloche, after a 68-kilometer trip you’ll get to the Vicente Pérez Rosales Border Crossing, where you cross into Chile, and you’ll find the village of Peulla. It’s an ecological town located in the middle of a virgin forest which has different ecotourism activities to bond with nature.

You’ll be able to get to know the Cascada de los Novios, kayak on the Río Negro, walk through the Bosque en Miniatura de las Pataguas or see the impressive Mirador Cerro Techado here.

Horse-riding, rafting, canopy and even tours in helicopter are some other experiences you can have in Peulla.

Todos los Santos Lake and Saltos del Petrohué

Photo: Sernatur Audiovisual Bank

Peulla is located on the west coast of the Todos los Santos Lake, which has turquoise color waters and stunning views of the  Osorno Volcano, the Puntiagudo Volcano and the Tronador Hill.

If you sail for an hour and 45 minutes east, you’ll reach the Saltos del Petrohué, another amazing place on the Cruce Andino, whose flow increases specially during winter.

You’ll find different accommodation services, parking facilities and activities like trekking, kayaking, climbing and rappel.

Puerto Varas: the final spot on the Cruce Andino

With a one-hour trip east on Ruta 225, you’ll reach Puerto Varas,  located next to Llanquihue Lake and the final stop on the Cruce Andino. In this beautiful city, the German cultural heritage can be appreciated through its impressive architecture and gardens.

What can I do in Puerto Varas?

Photo: Puerto Varas Town Hall

You must pay a visit to the Mirador Pedraplén, where you’ll find a gorgeous landscape of the area.  Other musts are the Sagrado Corazón de Jesús Church, the Antonio Felmer Museum and the Likanrayen Princess sculpture, whose exciting story will allow you to learn more about the Mapuche people.

You can also rent a bike and ride along the Llanquihue Lake bike path, 82 uninterrupted kilometers where you’ll go through the beautiful landscapes of Frutillar, Puerto Octay and Las Cascadas.

In terms of cuisine, you’ll find exquisite preparations that capture the German tradition and the comforting native cuisine.

Pieces of advice for your Cruce Andino trip

Everything is ready for your trip through the Cruce Andino in Chile!

  • Keep in mind that it is a very rainy area, so you must take jackets, boots, capes and all the necessary elements to protect yourself, especially if you are looking for somewhere to camp.
  • Keep in mind that stores close early and that many places only accept cash.
  • Always carry snacks and water, and don’t forget to carry your documentation for corresponding procedures.
  • You can get tickets for the national parks in Chile at PasesParques.cl.