What is the best vacation destination in South America? Reasons to visit Chile

With its glaciers, deserts, Polynesian culture, and one-of-a-kind scenic routes, Chile is the best destination in South America for your next vacation.

While names like Argentina, Brazil, or Colombia often come to our minds when we talk about tourism in the region, Chile stands out for offering a unique diversity and unforgettable experiences all within a single territory.

Stretching over 4,200 kilometers from north to south, the longest country in the world offers everything —from the driest desert on the planet to ancient glaciers and the eighth wonder of the world, Torres del Paine. Every corner brings together all the landscapes you could imagine in a single trip.

What is the best vacation destination in South America?

Chile is the best destination in South America and a dream place for your next vacation! This was determined at the latest World Travel Awards, known as the “Oscars of Tourism”, where, after a popular vote, our country won five categories: the Leading Green Destination, the Leading Adventure Destination, the Leading Nature Destination, Most Romantic Destination, and Leading Cruise Destination.

Here are three reasons why our country stands out as the top choice for anyone looking for a trip you’ll remember for the rest of your life.

1. The most romantic desert in South America— Perfect for a Couple’s Getaway

San Pedro de Atacama is the getaway to landscapes that seem like they are from another planet and the most romantic destination in South America. We are talking about the Atacama Desert. Here you can admire starry skies and enjoy the moment with that special someone you love so much.

From the rock formations of the Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley) to the turquoise waters of the altiplanic lagoons, every corner of San Pedro enchants its visitors. There you’ll find colors, textures, and desert landscapes unlike anywhere else in the region.

It’s also home to one of the largest geothermal fields in the world—the Tatio Geysers—a natural wonder where columns of steam rise more than 10 meters high. Don’t miss the Puritama Hot Springs, a place with warm, natural waters to enjoy on your own or with others amid beautiful desert lands.

San Pedro de Atacama stands out from any other tourist attraction thanks to its clear night skies 90% of the year and minimal light pollution.

These conditions make it a prime destination for lovers of astrophotography and astro-tourism. In addition, world-class observatories such as ALMA are located there, placing Chile at the forefront in this field.

2. Rapa Nui: Polynesian Magic and the Best Beach in Chile

Rapa Nui is one of the most remote inhabited islands in the world. Its magic and ancient culture are part of what makes Chile the best vacation destination in South America.

Located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, 3,700 kilometers from mainland Chile, this Polynesian territory captivates visitors with its rich history, nature, and the warmth of its  people. It’s ideal for children, as it’s home to the best beach in Chile —Anakena.

In addition to facing a group of moai statues resting on a ceremonial platform, Anakena Beach features calmness and has semi-warm waters. Enjoy the sun and an incredible view while the little ones swim!

One of the main attractions on the island are the moai statues. There are almost 1,000 statues carved from volcanic rock, some of which stand over 10 meters high  and weigh up to 80 tons.

In the quarry of the Rano Raraku volcano, there are more than 300 sculptures in various stages of construction. Their construction remains a great mystery, but experts believe that they were carved for religious and spiritual purposes.

With its volcanic geography, Rapa Nui is a destination that invites visitors to adventure and exploration. From horseback riding to Maunga Terevaka to its volcanic caves, every corner offers unparalleled natural beauty that only Easter Island has.

It also stands out for its marine biodiversity and crystal-clear waters—with visibility reaching up to 60 meters. This makes this Polynesian territory one of the best places for diving and snorkeling.

3. Glaciers, Fjords, and the Eighth Wonder of the World

The extreme south of Chile has a geography that is unique in South America. Its rugged, deeply indented coastline gives our country one of the largest fjords on Earth.

Chile has more than 26,000 glaciers, accounting for about 80% of all those in South America. This makes us the ultimate vacation destination for adventurous spirits who  love life in nature and beautiful landscapes untouched by humans.

In the heart of Chilean Patagonia lies the eighth wonder of the world. The Torres del Paine National Park is one of the most beautiful and unique destinations worldwide. Its impressive granite massifs, formed 12,000,000 million years ago, along with lakes, forests, and glaciers, create one of the most stunning landscapes in the world. It’s a paradise for those seeking tranquility, adventure, and trekking.

You can enjoy its famous trails, from multi-day circuits such as the “O” and the “W” to day hikes such as Base Torres. The diversity of experiences found in Chilean Patagonia is one of the reasons why our country is the best destination in the region.

We can’t talk about the Chilean Patagonia without mentioning its flora and fauna. Thanks to its lush southern forests and fjords, it’s an ideal environment for a wide variety of species. You’ll be able to see how pumas, condors, and guanacos coexist in this wild yet enchanting