Chile Overview

Chile is quite possibly Latin America’s best kept secret. While at its widest point Chile spans only 365km, its 6435km of coastline traverse a number of geographically diverse regions, providing the country with a unique diversity of climates, terrain, and wildlife. In the far north, near the highest volcano in the world, flamingo-filled lakes surround the driest place on earth. In the south, enormous glaciers flow down into national parks, which protect trees thousands of years old. Between all that, world-renowned vineyards share Chile’s rolling valleys with rheas, guanacos, and pudús. And halfway across the Pacific Ocean, ancient stone giants on Easter Island beg travelers to come and explore one of the most isolated and intriguing isles on Earth.

Yet Chile offers more than incredible natural attractions. Its culture and history are a fusion of Spanish, English, and German influences. This unmistakably European feel is augmented by Chile’s indigenous roots, which add a unique flavor to the cultural mix. The diversity of terrain and climate are echoed in this diverse culture. The desert landscape of the north is inhabited by a laid-back population, while the rolling, fertile hills of the Central Valley host a frantic, high-energy urban lifestyle. And farther south, the rugged, untamed forests and mountains are home to a cultural heritage that mixes the fierce independence of the Mapuche and the resilience of rural farm¬ers. Wherever you go, however, a distinctly Chilean way of life is perceptible—characterized by a rapid, rhythmic incarnation of Spanish and, even more importantly, a strong sense of national identity.

Even from its isolated perch between the Andes mountain range and the Pacific Ocean, Chile has managed to distinguish itself among its sibling nations. It is a country with a long democratic tradition, still struggling to deal with a brutal interlude of authoritarian rule. Yet it has managed to return to steady democracy despite the serious political and social challenges it faces. In fact, over the last few decades, Chile has gained a level of economic stability and development that well surpasses its neighbors to the north and east.

On the verge of taking its place among the leading countries of the world with modern social programs and stronger economic and political ties to both Europe and Asia, Chile offers many of the conveniences and reliability of a developed nation while maintaining the amazing sights and fascinating culture that make Latin America an increasingly popular tourist destination.

When To Go

Chile’s different climatic zones ensure that a variety of weather conditions prevail year-round, making a wide array of activities available at any time of the year. Chile is divided into three significant ...more