Presskit English

PRE

SS K

IT

Chile is a land of diversity and contrasts. Its geography distinguishes it from other destinations. It’s a tri-continental country, possessing territories in America, Antarctica and Oceania.

Its territory runs 4,300 kilometers along a narrow strip between the Andes Mountain Range and the Pacific Ocean.

It also offers a wonderfully varied mix of landscapes and climates that range from natural wonders like the most arid desert in the world, to glaciers and straits in the Pacific Ocean. There

a world class

tourist

destination

are few experiences as rewarding as admiring gigantic masses of ice, or contemplating one of the clearest skies on the planet.

The country is divided into five geographic and climatic zones. The north, marked by the presence of the Atacama Desert; Santiago and the Central Valley, characterized by its Mediterranean climate; the southern zone of lakes, rivers and volcanoes; the extreme south, which includes the Chilean Patagonia and the Antarctic territory; and, finally, the islands, with highlights including Easter Island, Robinson Crusoe, and ChiloĂŠ.

PRESSKIT ENGLISH

INDex A. GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT CHILE

C. TOURISM OPPORTUNITIES

1.

1. SPORTS AND ADVENTURE

INTRODUCTION

2. LOCATION 3. WHY CHILE?

5. HEALTH & WELLBEING Ventisquero Puyuhuapi Hot springs at Puritama

Exploring “Torres del Paine” National Park Volcanoes and salt flats at “San Pedro de Atacama”

4. WHAT YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT CHILE Fly fishing in rivers and fjords 6. URBAN LIFE Getting lost in the hills of Valparaiso 2. NATURAL INSPIRATION Puerto Natales and its culinary renaissance

B. A DESCRIPTION OF THE “MACROZONES” OF CHILE 1. THE NORTH AND THE ATACAMA DESERT

The colors of the flowering desert Roaming the neighborhoods of the Chilean capital Trips to the White Continent Complete R & R next to Llanquihue Lake

2. EASTER ISLAND, ROBINSON CRUSOE AND CHILOÉ 3. SANTIAGO AND CENTRAL CHILE 4. LAKES, RIVERS, AND VOLCANOES 5. THE PATAGONIA

D. WHAT IS “TURISMO CHILE” 3. WINES & FLAVORS The pisco trail in the Valle del Elqui The vineyards of Maipo by bicycle Flavors of the Sea

4. CULTURE AND HERITAGE The amazing culture of Easter Island The colors of the “Tirana” Festival Chile as a world astronomical power

PRESSKIT ENGLISH

E. CONTACT US

subtropical climate. The main airport in Chile

to bottom between 17º29’57’ and 56º32’ south

is Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport

latitude, and shares borders with Peru to the

in Santiago, which has direct connections to all

north, Bolivia to the northeast, the Pacific

the capitals of South America, along with ma-

Ocean to the west, Argentina to the east, and

jor cities in North America, Europe, Australia,

fades into Cape Horn on the way to Antarctica

and Asia, with the national airline called LAN

in the south.

being the most active company offering flights

1. INTRODUCTION

others. Despite the fact that Chile was the last

Chilean population. The primary group resides

Capital

Chile also has island territories in the Pacific

company which offers domestic routes within

The government of Chile is a multiparty de-

in the region of the Araucanía: the Mapuche

Santiago de Chile

Ocean, such as the Juan Fernandez Archipelago,

Chile and some routes in South America.

mocracy whose president is elected directly

(“people of the earth”), with a little more than

by a majority of the voters in a first or second

600,000 members, make up 87% of the total

radas” (meaning unfortunate in Spanish as they

All flights originating from outside the country

voting round. Presidential terms last for 4 years,

native population. Other smaller native groups

756.096 Square km

are uninhabited), as well as the better known

arrive first at the Arturo Merino Benítez Inter-

and presidents cannot be reelected to a second

exist, such as the Aymara in the north, the

Density

Easter Island (geographically and culturally

national Airport of Santiago, and from there

consecutive term.

Chonos and Huilliches, known worldwide for

22,62 hab/km2

considered Polynesian), bringing the country’s

flights can be taken to various points across the

The main export industries in Chile are mining

their hospitality on the island of Chiloé, and

total land mass to 756,096 square kilometers.

country. Domestic flights include the following

(especially copper), forestry and wood products,

the Yamanes and Alacalufes in the Patagonia

Official Language Spanish

Besides the extensive desert territory and the

destinations: Arica, Iquique, Antofagasta, Cala-

wine, fishing, fruits, and fresh flowers. Chile

and “Tierra del Fuego.” As for Easter Island, its

majestic Patagonia, the country also claims a

ma, Copiapó, La Serena, Concepción, Temuco,

has signed 56 different types of treaties (19 free

indigenous population numbers approxima-

strip of the Antarctic continent, comprising

Valdivia, Osorno, Puerto Montt, Balmaceda y

trade agreements, 28 economic association

tely 3,800, and they are considered ethnically

1,250,257.6 square kilometers, known as the

Punta Arenas.

agreements, 7 economic complementation

Polynesian. Its members speak Rapa Nui, their

Coin Chilean Peso Literacy Rate 96%

agreements, and 2 partial agreements) with

native tongue, as well as Spanish.

Entertainment and cultural options have pro-

In terms of national religious beliefs, 70% of the

Politic Regime Democratic, presidential. Elections every 4 years

to the 90th west meridian, and stretching

nations such as the United States, Japan, Chi-

down to the South Pole itself. Due to terri-

gressively diversified what Chile has to offer to

na, or economic blocs like Mercosur and the

country considers itself Catholic, 15% Protestant

Territorial Division

torial possessions being spread across these

tourists, such as a number of festivals throug-

European Union.

or Evangelical, 1% Jehovah’s Witnesses, and the

three continental areas, Chile defines itself as

hout the year, which blend old traditions with

a “tricontinental” country.

avant garde arts and masterpieces. A cuisine

Official Name

nous peoples today only represent 4.6% of the

República de Chile

rest are statistically insignificant. Literacy rates

Population 17.248.450 inhabitants (june 2011) Total Surface

Religion 86% christian / catholic

15 regions, subdivided into 52 provinces.

to international destinations. Sky Airlines is a

the Islands of Sala y Gómez and the “Desventu-

Chilean Antarctic Territory, bounded by 53rd

The true origin of the word “Chile” is unknown,

in Chile are high, at 96%. The economic growth

however, it is believed the term is derived from

and prosperity of the 1990s helped produce a

The country’s capital is Santiago, situated

unique feature that is present in hundreds of

the quechua o aymara “chili,” which means

flourishing middle class, and the poverty index

at 2,062 kilometers from the northernmost

restaurants from north to south.

“confine” or “end of the world”…or possibly an

stands at about 17%.

regional capital (Arica) and 3,090 kilometers

that starts with fresh seafood as its base is a

imitation of a bird call, “chilay, chilay.” Another

from the southernmost regional capital (Punta

This culinary affair is amplified by a wide variety

version of the word’s origin comes from the

Arenas). The city was founded in 1541 by the

of wines originating in the country’s northern

Incas, since it is said that when the Spanish

Spanish explorer Pedro de Valdivia and today

valleys, central area, and increasingly (within

explorer Diego de Almagro started his overland

contains the densest urban conglomerate of the

the last 5 years or so) from small vineyards in

expedition south (from Peru), the Incas told

country, with a little over 7 million inhabitants.

the south. Varietals range from the whites

him he was going to “Tchili,” meaning “cold” or

These defining extremes in longitude explain

Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay in the valleys

“snow.” The last 2 versions date to the 18th cen-

the incredible variety of climates found within

of Limarí, Casablanca, Leyda, and Bio Bio along

tury: one is from Abate Molina, author of a book

Chile. While in the north an arid climate pre-

with the red grapes Carmenère, Cabernet Sau-

called “A Listing of the Geographic, Natural, and

vails, with annual averages of 20 degrees Celsius

vignon and Syrah from the valleys of Maipo,

Civil History of Chile,” which claims that the

(sometimes with huge differences between

Colchagua, Maule, and Curicó.

word comes from term “Trih” or “Chih,” which

daily highs that can reach 30 degrees Celsius

was what the indigenous used as a name for

and nightly lows bordering the freezing point)

a bird with yellow specks; the second version

and little to no rain, the central portion of the

coming from the writer Diego de Rosales, who

country clearly has a Mediterranean climate,

affirmed that “Chile” was the name of an Indian

with four identifiably separate seasons, except

chief from the Aconcagua Valley. The majority

in the highest of altitudes in the Andes. Towards

of the population of Chile is “mestizo,” or mi-

the south the climate becomes very wet, and

xed blood, thanks to the union of indigenous

in the southernmost extremes some areas can

peoples with Spanish colonists, and, later on,

be classified as having a cold steppe climate, allowing significant snowfall during the winter.

PRESSKIT ENGLISH

s antia g o & the central z one

country to be conquered by Europeans, indige-

la k e s , ri v er s & v olcanoe s

GENERAL

while the island territories generally have a

nous spine of the Andes. It extends from top

pata g onia and the e x treme s o u th

England, Ireland, Italy, and Croatia, amongst

The Chilean Antarctic territory is clearly polar,

Latin America, parallel to the long mountai-

ISLANDS

due to European immigration from Germany,

Chile is located in the extreme southwest of

T H E N O R T H & T H E ATA C A M A D E S E R T

2. LOCATION

T CHILE U O B A N IO T A M R O GENERAL INF

90°

53°

T H E C H I L E A N A N TA R C T I C p enin s u la

3. WHY CHILE? “Chile, o una loca geografía” (“Chile, Or Some

bles, which ensure a speedy and reliable connection with the world.

Crazy Geography”) by Chilean author Benjamín

Another interesting feature of Chile is the stability of the nation’s

Subercaseaux, from 1940, is perhaps one of the

democratic system. As one of the countries with the fewest inte-

books that has best defined Chile. Extending

rruptions in its republican history in Latin America, its consistent

more than 4,329 kilometers in a long strip

growth is based on political agreements concerning the needs of

confined between the Pacific Ocean and the

modernization and national development, resulting in practical

Andes Mountains, its silhouette form is like a

terms in many commercial and social agreements that confirm

mosaic of natural wonders. It’s no wonder then

its status as a vigorous and flourishing country. For this very

that there are 363,000 square kilometers of

reason, Chile is seen has having a high level of internal security,

desert, over 4,200 kilometers of coastline, the

and is often labeled one of the most secure countries in South

longest and youngest mountain chain on the

America, where the most frequent worry is how to best spend

planet (with average heights of around 4,000

time exploring its vast territory.

meters, or about 13,000 feet above sea level), 14 million hectares of national parkland and

On a final note, entertainment and culture are essential parts of

22,000 square kilometers of ice, all combined

the indomitable Chilean spirit, noticeable thanks to a calendar

into different regions that, according to legend,

full of holidays and parties throughout the year, mixing tradition

“God made to sum up of all creation.”

and modernity in the arts, along with bohemian elements that unite national and international influences, in other words, the

The country is divided into five geographic

options are limitless. And for the lovers of luxury, the oceans offer

and climactic zones. While the north is known

an ample and diverse range of delicacies that are found from north

for the Atacama Desert (the world’s driest),

to south, blessing the country with unique delights. All of this,

the central portion, in the Andes Mountains,

along with its bountiful valleys that produce award-winning va-

boasts the majority of the best ski resorts in the

rietals like Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenère and Sauvignon Blanc

country. In the south, skiing and snowboarding

(and others), have given rise to a saying: Chile can express itself

aren’t the only activities- whitewater rafting

not only with crazy geography, but with unforgettable flavors.

and hiking are also popular, and the countryside becomes dense and awe-inspiring. Finally, in the southernmost areas, including the Patagonia and the Chilean Antarctic, nature, along with fields of glaciers and thousand year old ice, blend to form breath taking scenery, which

W H AT

WHERE

January

New Year´s

Chile

January

Huaso Festival

Olmué

Lastly, let’s not forget about the country’s nu-

Esquila (shearing) Festival

Patagonia

merous islands, like the mythological Chiloé, or

January

Santiago a Mil Festival

Santiago

the island known for the story of a shipwrecked

February

Tapati Rapa Nui

Isla de Pascua

February

Traditional Chiloé Festival

Chiloé

February

Viña del Mar Festival

Viña del Mar

February

Wine Harvest Festival

Valle del Elqui

world’s most intriguing treasures.

MAR

APR

NOV

DEC

Snow

Cloudy

Rain

Sunny

C° 10·14

15·20

21·25

26-+

Rapa Nui

F° 50·59

60·68

69·77

78-+

T R A N S P O R TAT I O N A N D D I S TA N C E S

Puerto Natales

Torres del Paine

Antarctica

2 54 km

391 km

990 km

3 hr s

6 hr s

Calama

Isla de Pascua

Valparaíso

Colchagua

Pucón

Puerto Varas

Punta Arenas

1575 km

3 800 km

12 0 km

17 7 km

789 km

1016 km

30 9 0 k m

P u n ta Arenas

2 h 30 min

Curicó

Santiago’s international airport, the work of Chile’s modern labor force becomes apparent.

April

Wine Harvest Festival

Santiago

The complete attention given to infrastructu-

April

Rancagua Champion

Rancagua

re, and the general network of highways and

June

We Txipantu ( Mapuche New Year)

buildings, mean ease of movement across the

June

San Pedro and San Pablo

Atacama

San Pedro de Atacama

July

La Tirana Festival

La Tirana

113 km

Septiembre

Independence Day

Chile

December

Andacollo Virgin

Andacollo

December

Cultural Carnivals

Valparaíso

Santa Cruz

note: At night, the temperatures

extreme south

Talca

with thousands of kilometers of fiber optic ca-

OCT

average temperature

Wine Harvest Festival

including abundant wireless Internet hotspots,

SEP

Patagonia and the

March

Internet connectivity throughout its territory,

AUG

Santiago and the Central Zone

Wine Harvest Festival

comfortable. By itself, Chile has satellite and

JUL

sharply (2 - 4°C or 35 - 39°F )

Wine Harvest Festival

country, making travelling simple, secure, and

JUN

in the Atacama Desert drop

March

on Chile’s recent history. Upon arriving at

MAY

The north and the Atacama Desert

March

But other characteristics have left their mark

PRESSKIT ENGLISH

WHEN

January

Rapa Nui (Easter Island), arguably one of the

FEB

Lakes, Rivers and Volcanoes

F estivals

can be explored by boats and even cruise ships.

adventurer, Robinson Crusoe, or the mystical

JAN

C L I M AT E

Santiago

2 h 10 min 24 hr s

Temuco

Calama 2 hr s

5 h 40 min 1 h 30 min

2 h 30 min

1 h 20 min

1 h 45 min

9 hr s

15 hr s

3 h 30 min

ut Chile

ow Abo n K ’t n id D u Things Yo

Chile is the safest and most stable

Chile is the only wine-producing

02.

03.

10.

11.

country in Latin America, according

country in the world unaffected by

Chile. The ancient indigenous group

the south, in the “Golfo Corcovado,”

ters of subterranean lava tunnels have

covering over 240,000 square kilome-

to the “Global Peace Index,” an annual

the Filoxera pest, which destroyed

called the Chinchorro, in the northern

are the only known location in the

been mapped out, making them one

ters, but the population density never

study conducted by the NGO Vision of

many grape varietals in other parts of

part of the country, started mummify-

world where blue whales congregate

of the most extensive cave systems on

exceeds 1 inhabitant per square kilom-

Humanity .

the world. Carmenère, a grape once

ing its dead sometime between 7,000

to feed. More than 150 species have

Earth.

eter and 50% is designated a Wild Pro-

thought extinct, is still found in Chile

and 2,000 years before the Egyptians.

been identified.

01.

Mummification was first performed in

The waters to west of Chiloé and to

On Easter Island more than 7 kilome-

12.

The Chilean Patagonia has a surface

tected Area.

and is now considered its signature grape.

04.

05.

06.

13.

The “Campos de Hielo,” or Ice Fields,

The Straits of Magellan are the only

14.

15.

drink a glass of Chilean wine every.

of view, Chile is one of the most fas-

toes in the world originate in Chile.

located in the Patagonia are the third

place outside of the waters of Antarc-

of the best destinations to visit by the

day.

cinating places on the planet. About

The country is also the number one

largest continental ice fields in terms

tica where humpbacked whales gath-

New York Times.

50% of its plant life and 20% of its ani-

global exporter of grapes, number

of area; alter those found in Antarctica

er to feed.

mal life is unique to the country.

two for salmon, trout, avocado, and

and Greenland.

9.8 million people around the world

From a biological and botanical point

More than 99% of all harvested pota-

Santiago was recently chosen as one

plums, and number three for kiwis, raspberries, and blackberries.

07.

08.

09.

16.

17.

18.

holds claim to the clearest skies in

been named World Heritage Sites by

places to visit in the world by Lonely

is covered by more than 1,750 glaciers.

through a 1,000 kilometer long strip

of viticulture valleys stretching from

the Southern Hemisphere for view-

UNESCO, nine geographic areas that

Planet. It has sixteen World Heritage

of land between the Andes Mountains

north to south in 14 different viticul-

ing stars. Some of the world’s most

are Biosphere Reserves, and twelve of-

churches, recognized as archeologi-

and the Pacific Ocean, spreading out

ture areas, which produce more than

important astronomical observatories

ficial wetlands according to the RAM-

cal masterpieces, many of them con-

over an area of 363,000 square kilom-

10 million hectoliters of wine per year.

are here, like “Paranal,” “la Silla,” and

SAR scale.

structed without nails.

eters.

The northern portion of the country

the Atacama Large Millimeter Array, or project “ALMA.”

PRESSKIT ENGLISH

Chile has five cultural sites that have

Chiloé was selected as one of the best

Three percent of the surface of Chile

The world’s most arid desert runs

Chile has more than 1,200 kilometers

MACRO ZONES 01 02 03 04 05 PRESSKIT ENGLISH

the north & the atacama desert Islands rapa nui, robinson crusoe y chiloĂŠ santiago & the central zone lakes, rivers & volcanoes patagonia & the extreme south

S E N O Z O R C MA 1. THE NORTH & THE ATACAMA DESERT The Atacama Desert covers the administrative regions of Arica and Pari-

Chile is blessed with the Southern Hemisphere’s clearest skies, and

nacota (Capital: Arica), Tarapacá (Capital: Iquique), Antofagasta (Capital:

they’re ideal for professional and amateur astronomers alike; visitors

Antofagasta, and known for the town of San Pedro de Atacama), Ata-

will encounter everything from observatories dedicated to tourists to

cama (Capital: Copiapó), and lastly, the region of Coquimbo (Capital: La

hotels that offer telescopes for their guests.

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Serena).

But when you go beyond political regions you can see how fascinating, mysterious, and overwhelming the north of Chile is. The trip from the desert coast up to the “Altiplano” (high altitude plains), is breath taking and requires boundless energy, thanks to the endless salt flats, geysers, deep green oasis, extensive beaches, volcanoes, and of course the imposing Andes Mountains themselves.

Here lies the Atacama Desert, the driest on the planet, and a striking contrast with the fertile valleys of Azapa or Elqui off to the south, the oasis in Pica, or Lauca and Pan de Azúcar National Parks.

Other must-see destinations include the desert dunes, the town of La Tirana, famous for an annual festival that is one of the most colorful in the north, the endless beaches of Pan de Azúcar, the beautiful village of San Pedro de Atacama, and, almost bordering the central area of the country, the National Forest Reserves of Fray Jorge and Valle del Limarí, which are important because of their biodiversity.

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San Pedro de Atacama is a town known as a springboard for excursions to different landmarks in the area, such as the Valley of the Moon, the Atacama Salt flats, high altitude lakes, the Tatio Geysers, and other points of interest. For those interested in archeology, the town offers the Padre Gustavo Le Paige Archeological Museum, which features numerous and significant pre-Hispanic relics and even mummies.

The north of Chile has the ideal climate and beaches for surfing, para gliding, or simply enjoying the sight of marine wildlife, such as the Humboldt Penguin, dolphins, walruses, and other ocean creatures, all of which are observable in the Punta Choros National Reserve, in the region of Coquimbo.

The climate in this part of Chile has preserved, for thousands of years, the Mummies of Chinchorro (the oldest of the world), where you can also find, in pristine conditions, petro glyphs and geoglyphs, with the

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most famous known as the “Giant of Atacama.”

S A N P E D R O D E ATA C A M A 1. la tirana 2.

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L A GU N A C E J A R 3.

VA L L E D E L A M U E R T E 4.

2. ISLANDS RAPA NUI, ROBINSON CRUSOE & CHILOÉ RAPA NUI ISLAND This island, of volcanic origin, is politically part of the Region of Valparaíso, and comprises 180 square kilometers at a distance of 3,256 kilometers from the mainland coast and 5 hours by air from Santiago. It has traditionally been called “Rapa Nui” or “Te Pito Te Henua” (the World’s Navel) by its native inhabitants. It is considered the world’s most remote inhabited island, set in the middle of the Pacific Ocean and discovered rather by accident by the Dutchman Jacob Roggeween in 1772 on Easter Sunday, which explains its name in Western cultures. In 1888, Policarpo Toro claimed possession of the island on behalf of the Chilean govern-

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ment. Today approximately 5,000 people live there.

On Easter Island you can find totally inactive volcanoes, caves, and beautiful scenery in general, and what undoubtedly keeps attracting thousands of tourists annually, the gigantic sculptures called the “moai.”

This Polynesian territory contains more than 600 moais, ranging in height from 5 to 12 meters, which the islanders once built to worship their ancestors. They are spread out on platforms known as “Ahus,” many of which are damaged or have been destroyed due to ancient island conflicts among the different clans or thanks to the course of nature itself. Today many consider the island the largest open air museum in the world, which is why Rapa Nui National Park was named an UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The lava caves end as cliffs, which anyone can explore. The most popular are “Ana Te Pahu” and “Ana o Keke,” with the latter also known as the Cave of the Virgins, since it was the place where the Rapa Nui women were once enclosed in order to be purified before getting married.

The crater of the Rano Kau volcano is unparalleled experience, as is a

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tour of the ancient ceremonial town of Orongo, and very much worth the trip.

Beyond the archeological factor and nature itself, the “living culture” is what today is more present than ever and continues to attract attention.

There are myths, legends, and traditions vividly transmitted even today: dances, music, the language, festivals, and food. Every February the islanders hold the traditional festival called Tapati, in which inter-team competition revives ancient traditions and shares part of the island culture with the tourists that arrive during that time.

“Rapa Nui” invites visitors to roam the island on horseback, bicycle, or excursions on foot. For surfing enthusiasts, the island provides one of the best environments for that sport, as well as crystalline waters that are perfect for scuba lovers. It is said to be one of the planet’s best places

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for underwater wildlife observation.

R A N O rara k u 1.

E A S T E R I S L A N D , B I K E 2.

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R A PA N U I C O S T U M E 3.

A N A K E N A 4.

ROBINSON CRUSOE ISLAND The island of Robinson Crusoe is one part of the Juan Fernandez Archipelago, and lies at 667 kilometers off of the coast of San Antonio in the 5th region (the region of Valparaíso). The only town, named San Juan Bautista, has a mere 600 residents that are extremely hospitable and welcoming to tourists. It has a humid subtropical climate; humid enough to allow it to have an annual average temperature of 15 degrees Celsius.

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The island was declared a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1977 based especially on its unique flora and fauna. About 70% of all of these species are plants, while around 25% are fish. There are 218 species of native plants, 136 are exclusive to the island. The national park has a surface area of 9,571 hectares and also includes the islands of Santa Clara and Alejandro Selkirk.

Its natural features include impressive hills, cliffs, marine caves, and a crystal blue sea that’s perfect for scuba diving. The interesting thing about this place, and its plant life, is that they are all species that are estimated to be over 2 million years old, which was transported by air, water, or birds from places like New Zealand, Hawaii, the Patagonia, and the Andes Mountains. Once on the island, they evolved directly into their current form, converting the island in a hidden paradise.

Among it wildlife, the two haired sea lion stands out, which is alone on the island, along with the Juan Fernandez lobster, which inhabits the rocky bottoms of the sea and is the main source of sustenance for those who live on Robinson Crusoe.

It’s also worth mentioning the importance of the history that surrounds

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the island ever since it welcomed its most famous resident during the 18th Century: Alejandro Selkirk, who after an argument with the captain of his ship was abandoned and left to his own devices on the island and managed to survive alone for more than four years. Once he was rescued and returned to England, his story was the inspiration for Daniel Defoe to write his most famous novel, Robinson Crusoe.

Winter brings abundant rains, especially between May and September, so the best time of the year for visiting Juan Fernandez is generally from November until April.

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R O B I N S O N C R US O E I S L A N D 1. / 4.

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CHILOE ISLAND In 2011 Lonely Planet selected Chiloé as one of the world’s most interest-

The area known as Puñihuil, 27 kilometers (about 16 miles) south of An-

ing places for vacationing. The island’s geography is made up of fields,

cud, features a new sustainable tourism project focused on the care of

forests, and the sea, with a unique culture reflected in its architecture,

the local fauna. This is the only place where you can find a penguin col-

food, mythology, and the warm welcome of its residents, who them-

ony made up of two different species, both the Humboldt Penguin and

selves are descended from a mix of the Spanish settlers and the Huilliche

the Magellan Penguin. The area also boasts, along with the nearby “Gol-

people.

fo Corcovado,” the largest concentration of blue whales in the Southern Hemisphere, with over 100 individual whales having been identified.

Chiloé sits at precisely 1186 kilometers (about 712 miles) from Santiago

1

and 90 kilometers (54 miles) southwest of Puerto Montt. The ferry voyage is about 30 minutes crossing the Chacao Channel, which separates the mainland from the northern coast of the Big Island of Chiloé, one of about 30 islands comprising the archipelago of the same name.

The “palafitos,” the local term for the colorful houses constructed on “stilts,” or posts in the water, are one of the island’s biggest attractions, as well as its wooden churches, all built in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Although there are over 80 fine examples of this unusual architectural style, only 16 were chosen by UNESCO as deserving of Cultural Heritage Monument status.

Ancud, Castro and Quellón are the island’s main towns, and as is to be expected they all offer fine fish and seafood dishes in their restaurants (prepared in the local style of course), extensive artisan fairs that feature products like locally-grown wool, and a number of festivals steeped in local tradition, which are especially common in the summer.

Chiloé is known for being a very rainy place, and that’s part of the island’s enchantment; with very changeable skies and nearly impenetra-

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ble forests, the latter being especially prominent on the western side of the island. That’s where you’ll find Chiloé National Park, which is a preserve for the Valdivian forest (named for its similarity with forests near the mainland town of Valdivia to the north), thousand year old larch trees and peat bogs. If you’re looking for them, there are established camping areas and hiking trails too.

Towards the southern end of the island there is a private natural park called Tantauco, featuring 118 thousand hectares (nearly 291,500 acres) for preservation, ecosystem restoration and sustainable tourism, right in the middle of eternally green forests, cypress trees that are well over 100 years old and giant peat bogs. “Caleta Inio” is the name of the small town where local residents live, many of which live off of the “pelillo” harvest; a type of algae that is often sold for a handsome price. Tantauco has a guest house with six rooms and, for the true campers, 24 sites that are totally isolated from each other for the best possible care of the

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landscape.

D alcah u e 1.

C A S T R O 2.

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PA L A F I T O S I N C A S T R O 3.

TA N TA U C O PA R K 4.

3.

SANTIAGO & THE CENTRAL VALLEYS

Santiago, the country’s capital and the capital of the Metropolitan Re-

Santiago is a city bordering on 7 million residents, a reflection of its in-

gion, covers a surface area of 15,403 square kilometers, which makes it

creasing modernity and national progress during the last 20 years, and

the smallest political region of the country but at the same time the

as such the selection is a varied as the needs of those who live there. On

most populated, with over 6 million inhabitants, possessing (according

the way to the mountains, about 40 minutes away in the vicinity, there

to the last census in 2002) 40,1% of the nation’s population. It’s also the

are four world-class ski resorts: Valle Nevado, La Parva, Farellones, and

only region of the country that is landlocked and without access to the

El Colorado. Portillo, as well, is considered one of the top destinations

Pacific Ocean.

for skiing in South America, and is located 150 kilometers from the capital, on the route towards the town of Los Andes, with an environment

Santiago is a diverse, modern, and cosmopolitan city. Its privileged lo-

endowed with the beauty of a lake called Laguna del Inca. The extensive

cation within the area let you spend the morning at one of several ski

Andes Mountain Chain provides fantastic ski runs, in terms of quality,

resorts found up in the heights of the Andes, while coming down in the

diversity, and/or complexity. For the bold among us, when a slope is

afternoon to enjoy the beaches that the central portion of the country

missing a chairlift, you can always take a helicopter and drop down on

offers. But if you want to discover the wonders of this urban conglom-

virgin powder by Heliski. On the other hand, for snowboarders and free-

erate, a good place to start would be one of its more than 100 theat-

style skiers, El Colorado and Valle Nevado have great “Snowparks,” full

ers, multiple movie screens, the acclaimed Municipal Theater (complete

of jumps, ramps, pipes, and rails. All of these ski resorts have first class

with a healthy dose of opera, ballet, and concerts), the numerous shop-

facilities, some even boast open air pools, spas, and gyms, guaranteeing

ping outlets like the boulevard Alonso de Córdova (with the exclusive

a good time for both families and couples and, of course, winter sports

stores Armani, Salvatore Ferragamo, Louis Vuitton, etc) or historic bohe-

fans.

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mian neighborhoods, specializing in artisan crafts and wares, with the Bellavista district as the flagship example.

Finally, when heading to the northwest of Santiago, on to the coast, you run into the bohemian port town of Valparaíso and its twin city by the

Other interesting options include the historic downtown area, where

bay, Viña del Mar. It takes barely 2 hours to get there from Santiago, af-

you can visit the presidential palace “La Moneda,” originally named so

ter crossing the renowned viticulture valley of Casablanca. Like a zigzag-

for being used as the official mint during the colonial era. Below street

ging labyrinth, 44 hills crown one of the oldest cities in Chile. With sev-

level, there’s the “Centro Cultural Palacio La Moneda,” opened in 2006,

eral areas declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO, a quick ride up and

which offers free access to visual and audio heritage exhibits that are

down the city’s hundred year old cable car elevators (often used by locals

both domestic and international in character, featuring both permanent

to get back up to their homes) is a must. There are also boutique hotels

and seasonal exhibitions (http://www.ccplm.cl/). In the same part of

which keep their doors open every year on the hills called Cerro Alegre or

town, points of interest include the “Plaza de Armas,” the Museum of

Cerro Concepción, offering an excellent choice for overnight stays. Other

Pre-Columbian Art (http://www.precolombino.cl/), or the Cathedral of

must sees are the Catholic and “dissident” cemeteries, the Prat Pier and

Santiago, good spots to visit before having lunch in the Central Mar-

strolls along the bay, the different swaying lookouts wedged between

ket and enjoying the variety of seafood and fish hauled in fresh from

the hills, the wide range of culinary options-ranging from avant garde

the Chilean sea. Afterwards, the afternoon is a perfect time to head off

to century old bars-and, of course, one of Nobel Laureate Pablo Neruda’s

to the National Museum of Fine Arts, (www. mnba.cl), a French styled

favorite houses, where he wrote “I love Valparaíso, for all those things

structure that was inaugurated for celebrating the Chilean centennial in

you keep within and yet radiate, my bride of the sea.”

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1810, and then finishing off the day by visiting one of the homes of Nobel Laureate Pablo Neruda, or the Metropolitan Park, the largest urban park

Viña del Mar is a mere 10 minutes from Valparaíso, an ancient haven

in Chile and one of the biggest in the world (measuring 722 hectares),

for the more well off members of Chilean society, its aristocratic ori-

where you can snap great photos of Santiago from the heights or visit

gin helps it maintain an unmatched beauty and elegance. Its long and

the city’s zoo.

wide beaches, its cared-for coastline, and outstanding array of hotels and food make it one of the favorite destinations for visitors from San-

One of the most traditional viticulture (wine-producing) areas in Chile

tiago. One of the city’s symbols is its casino, started in the 1930’s, and its

is the Valley of Maipo, where there are currently about 20 vineyards, and

tradition is only comparable to its level of quality, since it’s considered

as one of the most established wine regions in the country, many offer

one of the world’s most complete and modern. An essential trait of the

tastings. When it comes to enjoying food, Santiago is not lacking in its

“Garden City” is the International Music Festival every year in “Viña,” cel-

selection of bars, pubs, and restaurants, which range from international

ebrated every February, and that has, during the last 50 years, served as

dishes, to “criolla” food (a mix of Spanish and indigenous traditions),

a platform for international and folkloric competition for five magical,

to the latest trends from the phenomenon of molecular gastronomy.

music-filled nights during the Chilean summer.

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S A N T I A G O 1.

H O T E L W, S A N T I A G O 2.

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VA L PA R A í S O 3.

C O LC H A GU A VA L L E Y 4.

4.

LAKES, RIVERS, AND VOLCANOES

The area of lakes, rivers, and volcanoes represent the gateway to the

the union of traditions of Mapuche origin, the Spanish influence, and

Patagonia and the extreme south. This area covers 4 of Chile’s political

the important German colony thrive together, characterizing the archi-

“regions” Bio Bio, la Araucanía, de los Ríos, and de los Lagos, with the

tecture and idiosyncrasies of the city. Valdivia has a watershed with

capital of each being Concepción (Chile’s second largest city), Temuco,

more than 250 kilometers of navigable rivers, which allows travel by

Valdivia, and Puerto Montt, respectively. The extensiveness of this area

boat and, in some parts, the use of kayaks, which yield a different view

makes each city and its surroundings have their own attractions. In

of the city. The city also has a casino, with over 33,000 square kilometers

Concepción, for example, besides getting to know one of the south’s em-

and the 5 star Pedro de Valdivia hotel, which give its guests practically

blematic cities, you can visit Lota, an old coal mining town 9 kilometers

limitless choices.

away, a good place to learn about the labor history of Chile, by visiting the 14 hectares of Isidora Cousiño Park. The next stop is “Chiflón del Dia-

Lastly, the extreme end of this zone is home to the capital of the Lakes

blo” (“The Devil’s Wind), the world’s only naturally ventilated mine that

Region, Puerto Montt, with 2 other nearby sights to see, Puerto Varas to

is found under the sea. You can visit the mine’s museum or go directly in

the north and the mythic island of Chiloé to the south.

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to the mine through one of the tourist circuits.

In Puerto Montt leisure activities revolve around adventure sports, like One thing you can’t miss any time of the year is the resort “Termas

navigating between islands (by day you can go to the islands of Puluqui,

de Chillán,” situated at 82 kilometers towards the mountains depart-

Quenu, or Tabón), fishing for sport or excursions in the national parks.

ing from the town of the same name (Chillán). Just before reaching the

Heading south you’ll cross the Channel of Chacao, an unforgettable ex-

“Termas” (hot springs) resort, you run into the Valley of “Las Trancas,”

perience and the entrance to the legendary island of Chiloé, full of myths

with gorgeous views, native trees, waterfalls, and “fumaroles,” or nat-

and tall tales. Ironically, just half an hour north is where Puerto Varas

ural openings in the earth that emit gases from the volcano Chillán.

lies, known as one of the cities with the strongest German influence

Everything turns white in winter, and mere minutes from here you find

in the country. During even a short visit you’ll notice the German style

“Nevados de Chillán,” the next door neighbor ski resort of “Termas de

architecture, plus the traditional German pastries like küchens, choco-

Chillán,” which features 28 designated runs for all types of winter sports,

lates, cakes, or homemade marmalades.

while in summer options vary from trying out Chile’s first mountain casino to thermal spas to the zip line, a popular favorite.

The volcano Osorno serves as a nice backdrop, standing at a height of over 2,500 meters (8,200 feet), and is visible from the town of Osorno

The next point to highlight is Temuco, the city with the highest concen-

down to Chiloé. Likely because of its incredible beauty, Puerto Varas is

tration of the indigenous mapuche population in the country (including

one of the most important tourist towns in Chile, with surrounding

the surrounding communities), a proud indigenous tribe that put up

villages displaying a strong German influence that also has a certain

fierce resistance to both Incan and Spanish invasions. Temuco is an hour

beauty, such as Frutillar or Puerto Octay. If you want to jaunt over to

and 20 minutes from Santiago by plane, and 7 by car.

the beach, a visit to Ensenada or Petrohué is at hand, or for a bi-national

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adventure, tries the “Cruce de Lagos” tour, which commences in Puerto Don’t miss the towns of Villarrica, Pucón, or Curarrehue, 90 kilometers

Varas itself and comes to an end in Bariloche, Argentina.

away from Temuco. Enjoy the southern charm of Villarrica Lake, the bustling night life in Pucón o Curarrehue; learn about the “rucas” in the Mapuche community of Kilaleufú, a type of house that stands as a monument to indigenous architecture and is ideal for making contact with the ancient culture. For those interested, the Dreams Casino is in Temuco, complete with a 5 star hotel, bar, spa, and more than 500 gaming machines, plus the hot Springs of Coñaripe ( 150 km from Temuco), where unspoiled nature and medicinal waters will revive your spirits among crystal blue river waters. Other possibilities include adventure sports, where the Huilo Huilo nature preserve allows you to experience and savor the heights by canopy, hiking, or horse riding, or more.

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Farther south you find the capital of the region of the rivers (“de los Ríos”), Valdivia. Two hours by plane and 10 hours driving from Santiago, p u c ó n 1. r í o tranc u ra 2.

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lanalh u e , ara u co 3.

H er q u eh u e national par k 4.

5.

THE PATAGONIA & THE EXTREME SOUTH

The Patagonia comprises the political regions of Aysén (Capital: Coy-

ern Ice Field). The national park has 242,242 protected hectares that are

haique) and Magallanes and the Chilean Antarctic (Capital: Punta Are-

visited annually by more than 100,000 tourists.

nas). If you combine both of them, they cover more than 240,000 square kilometers, including the Antarctic territory. The unusual thing in this

Punta Arenas lies on the northern Banks of the Strait of Magellan; it’s a

case is that in all of this territory, there are only 223,000 people, which

dynamic city that serves as the springboard for many cruise ship routes

gives you an idea of the amount of land untouched by the human pres-

and even for flights visiting the “Tierra del Fuego” or making the trek to

ence.

Antarctica. On the other side of the strait, you’ll find “Tierra del Fuego” (Land of Fire), a huge island accessible by boat or single prop planes

This area, the southernmost of Chile, goes from Puerto Montt to Antarc-

where you’ll arrive to Porvenir, the main town on the island. Tierra del

tica. The scenery holds indescribable beauty, mixing thousand year old

Fuego was first spotted in 1520 by Hernando de Magallanes, when it was

and virgin forests, islands, fjords, snowfields, and glaciers.

still inhabited by the Selk’nam, the island’s indigenous tribes.

The “Carretera Austral” (Southern Highway) starts here, an unpaved road

Visiting Antarctica, the southernmost point on Earth, is the experience

that snakes along the coastal fjords and passes dense forests, ancient

of a lifetime. The pristine and intensely pure snow blurs in with the fierce

glaciers, and an intense and crooked mountainous countryside. It’s a

sky blue, and you would be excused if you confused the two. Despite the

road with little traffic and the feeling of total adventure, often as the

severe cold, a rich ecosystem here thrives, which includes walruses, sea

only human present in the midst of such an imposing natural environ-

lions, penguins, whales, orcas (killer whales), and lots of different birds.

ment, it makes you realize the smallness of humanity, especially in front

With the outline of a finger that points north, the famous Cape Horn

of the majestic wildlife found here.

is the most dangerous pass for the ships that journey through these

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waters. The Antarctic Peninsula harbors the scientific bases of 9 counFjords can be viewed if you look closely, and you’ll notice how polished

tries, where the enormous biological and mineral resources of the white

and sculpted they are from the last glacial era, complete with canals and

continent are studied. You can stop and tour the investigative centers

hundreds of islands immersed in dense vegetation. Along with other

on the Chilean bases, located on Presidente Frei and Rey Jorge Islands.

types of wildlife, you’ll find sea lions, dolphins, and marine birds such as the Imperial or Red Crow, plus Magellan Penguins, and more. Few navigable regions of the world can compare to the fjords of Chile; passengers on cruise ships enjoy scenic views without any other boats obstructing the view. Farther south, the Serrano, Balmaceda, and Grey glaciers, along with the channels near “Tierra del Fuego” and the Beagle Canal,

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offer unparalleled views.

In the extreme south, the “Pampa” (plains) dominates the landscape on both sides of the Andes, which fade away at the extreme southern tip of the Americas, coming to an end near the Torres del Paine National Park, which was declared a National Park in 1959 and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1979. This amazing destination is internationally known as one of the most beautiful, unique, and pollution-free places on the planet.

Its primary attractions are the impressive relief, lakes, and wildlife, which make it the optimal site for ecotourism and adventure sports.

Some example of this wildlife are pumas, hundreds of different kinds of birds, guanacos (mammals similar to llamas), condors, huemules (Chile’s national animal that’s similar to a deer), and foxes. Nature here is also generous with waterfalls, colorful lakes, glaciers, whitewater rivers that are ideal for fishing and the ever-imposing “Campo de Hielo Sur” (South-

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A N TA R c T I C A 1.

L A g o G E N E R A L C A R R E R A 2.

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T O R R E S D E L PA I N E 3.

PU N TA A R E N A S 4.

EXPERIENCE

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01 02 03 04 05 06

SPORTS & ADVENTURE NATURAL INSPIRATION FOOD & WINE CULTURE & HERITAGE HEALTH & WELLNESS LEISURE LIFESTYLE

VOLCANOES AND SALT FLATS IN SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA

S E R U T N E V D A S SPORT

The Atacama Salt Flats are the largest saline deposit and the fifth largest in the world, being over 100 kilometers long and 80 kilometers wide. Its rough white surface hides extensive brackish waters.

This crust has opened in some spots to give way to small lakes where flamingos and other interesting species have been able to adapt to the altitude. There’s no shortage of things to do, one option is riding bikes on a route that goes from downtown San Pedro 8 kilometers to the small Cejar Lake, where the water is so salty that human bodies always float. Another possible field trip is to visit The Flamingos National Reserve during the last hour of daylight. The pinkish evening light that falls on the white salt flats and the brown surrounding volcanic walls is an experience you cannot miss. San Pedro de Atacama has more than 375 attractions, and one alternative for seasoned travelers is to climb one of the volcanoes that are part of the Andes Mountain chain.

One of the defining characteristics that make

Colorado, and La Parva) are 50 minutes from

Chile stand out on the map is its shape: a long

the Chilean capital, all of which have prime

and narrow stretch of land squeezed between

facilities in terms of hotels, restaurants,

the Pacific Ocean and the Andes Mountains.

equipment rental and ski and snowboarding

Thanks to its longitude and the ocean and

schools.

mountain influence, it unites an incredible

EXPLORING TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK

“El Láscar” volcano, at 5,600 meters (17,000 feet) above sea level, is the most active in the area, and perhaps for that reason, the most at-

One of the great draws of Torres del Paine Na-

tractive. It’s set at a distance of 70 kilometers

tional Park are the towering “horns” that give

to the southeast of San Pedro and guarantees

variety of climates and scenery, including

Towards the south, the Lakes and Volcanoes

their name in Spanish to the park and are a

a unique experience-observing live volcanic

beaches, mountains, deserts, forests, steppes,

Macrozona has even more winter sports and

favorite for many mountain climbers.

activity from the edge of a crater.

valleys, lakes, rivers, volcanoes, fjords, and ice

snow activities, with the added benefit of be-

fields, which make the country an adventure

ing able to ski in native forests or the on the

Its trademark black rock is the result of tec-

The Licancabur Volcano is only 60 km east of

and open air sports destination not to be

outskirts of active volcanoes, and then later

tonic forces and the glaciers that have sculpt-

San Pedro. It stands at almost 6,000 meters

missed.

on relaxing in hot springs and spa resorts.

ed them. The area has a network of trails for

(19,000 feet) above sea level, with a lake and

There are plenty of rivers and lakes for kayak-

travelling by foot, each with varying levels of

archeological remains at the top. This climb

ing, rafting, windsurfing, and sailing.

difficulty.

requires at least two full days and sufficient

different degrees of difficulty for all tastes and

The Patagonia is recognized worldwide as

One of the most well-known is the W, a trip

budgets. In the “Macrozona” of the north you

a land of adventure and outdoor activities.

that takes about 10 days and passes, amongst

can try your hand at activities like sand board-

It’s quite common to see cyclists taking on

other features, the valley of the Grey Glacier.

ing and driving 4x4 vehicles on the gigantic

the 1,200 kilometers of the “Carretera Aus-

To ride a bike through the park there are

dunes, hiking in the high altitude plains and

tral” (Southern Highway), sports fishermen

mountain bike trails with gorgeous panoram-

mountain climbing up to the tall peaks of the

struggling with enormous trout and salmon

ic views, crystalline colored lakes and steep

Andes, with Ojos del Salado, the highest ac-

in rivers like the Puelo, Simpson, and Baker,

drops among the rocks. Another possible ac-

tive volcano in the world. The coast is known

mountaineers scaling dangerous peaks like

tivity is kayaking the Serrano River and ex-

for surfing, windsurfing, and scuba diving.

San Valentín (the highest in the Patagonia),

ploring virgin valleys while surrounded by im-

or hiking lovers who, with backpack on hand,

mense foliage and even glaciers. Among the

The Santiago Macrozona and surrounding

roam the trails of parks like those in Torres del

range of excursion options is taking a stroll

areas have the largest skiable surface in the

Paine or Dientes de Navarino (on the “Tierra

on the beach towards Grey Lake and observing

Southern Hemisphere, known for quality

del Fuego” island), the southernmost hiking

the giant ice floes or also navigating up to the

powder snow and modern infrastructure. The

trail in the world.

front of Grey Glacier.

There are numerous choices from north to south, with the option to try activities with

main ski resorts (Valle Nevado, Farellones, El

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acclimating in order to attempt a trek to the top.

FLY FISHING AMONG THE RIVERS AND FJORDS

The amazing rivers, lakes, and fjords of the Lakes Region and the Patagonia Region offer never ending opportunities for fly fishing.

Due to the low population density and the extensive amount of land, these regions gift tourists with the optimal conditions for fishing giant trout, with an incomparable wild background and total solitude to boot.

As Chile is one of the most geographically diverse nations on Earth, the natural environment of the regions that are apt for fishing is equally diverse. The seasons for sports fishing lasts from November to May. There are dozens of all-inclusive lodges from Puerto Montt to Tierra del Fuego. The majority of these tourist facilities have some type of boats for navigating shallow rivers, horses, and even helicopters to get the hardest points to access, which also allows visitors to move to other places, depending on the weather conditions.

A new feature for the area are the luxury yachts that are primarily for fly fishing, and can ride among the fjords of Chile. For those who decide to merely accompany these avid sportsmen or women to the end of the world, there are other recreational opportunities like hiking or heliski.

S P ORT s & A D V ENTURES

M O T O R CYC L I N G

DIVING

HORSEBACK RIDING

cav in g

K AYA K I N G

M O U N TA I N CLIMBING

SU R F I N G

g olf

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BIKING

FISHING

C A N O PY RIDES

WAT E R SP O R T S

raftin g

T R E KK I N G

mo u ntain bi k e

SANDBOARDING

A E R I A L SP O R T S

SK I I N G

DESERT COLOR

N O I T A R I P S N I L A NATUR

The flowered desert is a unique climactic phenomenon that occurs in the Atacama Desert where diverse displays of wildflowers appear between the months of September and November.

An environment that normally seems to be devoid of plant or animal life is suddenly invaded by native species that color the dry sands with intense violets, pinks, and yellows.

The beauty behind this natural event that transforms the normal dryness in this area into a giant multicolored garden gets lots of attention thanks to the rarity of this mix of geographies and images that are highly uncommon together.

This phenomenon is especially noticeable along the coast of the Atacama Region, about 800 kilometers north of Santiago, from south of the town of Vallenar to just north of the city of Copiapó. When regional rainfall is above

The 4,300 kilometer length of Chile helps to

spite the dryness, life springs forth in oasis,

ciers (the ice fields are the third largest exten-

average during the winter, more than 200

establish incredible climactic diversity, with

valleys, even forest, and, every so often, huge

sions of continental ice after Antarctica and

species, the majority native, take advantage

desert, Mediterranean, temperate, tundra,

stretches of the desert burst forth in an array

Greenland), rivers, lakes, forests, steppe, and

of the extra water and flourish in the spring,

and sub polar zones, and within each some

of colorful flowers. The north of the country

of course the wildlife, with humpback and

managing to attract thousands of travelers

variation depending on the distance to the

also is endowed with the clearest skies for star

blue whale watching a treat that is not to be

and fanatics. The strong rains and unusual

coast or mountains. This doesn’t even include

gazing, salt flats, hot springs, geysers, volca-

missed.

snowfalls that affected the area this year are

the subtropical climate of Easter Island and

noes, sand dunes, solitary beaches and an un-

the Juan Fernandez Archipelago or the polar

ending diversity of animal life.

an omen of a brightly flowered desert, a deOne of the main traits of Chilean geography is the sheer number of islands, with approxi-

climate of the Chilean Antarctic Territory.

As the distance from the equator increases,

mately 4,000 stretched out along the length of

The range of climates and the morphology of

the

the country. Three in particular can be singled

Chile have given the country a unique per-

change, giving way to fertile valleys well-suit-

sonality, putting in one country a plethora of

ed to agriculture, as well as the production of

environments and natural attractions. From a

Chile’s renowned wines. In the south, dozens

Resting at hundreds of kilometers from the

biological and botanical point of view, Chile

of lakes, rivers, forests, and volcanoes blend

mainland in the middle of the Pacific Ocean,

is one of the world’s most fascinating places,

together, where thousand year old trees make

the Juan Fernandez Archipelago can be found,

with 50% of the plant life and 20% of the ani-

their presence known, like larch trees and the

along with Easter Island, culturally belonging

mal life being exclusive to the country.

Paraná pine.

to Polynesia. In the south, where the conti-

There are 9 geographical areas considered

In the Patagonia, in the extreme south, there

Biosphere Reserves, 12 RAMSAR category wet-

are still places that have never been touched

lands (important on an international level due

by human footsteps. The Chilean Patagonia

to ecological, botanical, zoology, and hydro-

is spread over 240,000 square kilometers, the

logical factors) and 19% of the nation’s terri-

population doesn’t exceed one person per

tory is protected in the form of natural parks

square kilometer, and 50% of the territory is a

or reserves.

Wild, Protected Area.

The Atacama Desert, in the north, is consid-

The land never fails to surprise from end to

ered the most arid desert in the world. De-

end, with fjords and channels, mountains, gla-

climate

and

vegetation

progressively

out for their unique culture and biodiversity.

nent breaks into pieces, the Archipelago of

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Chiloé also holds it own.

light for photographers.

JOURNEY TO THE WHITE CONTINENT

COMFORT ON THE SHORES OF LAKE LLANQUIHUE

The Antarctic cruise ship season gets under-

Llanquihue Lake sits at some 17 kilometers to

way in November, when optimal conditions

the north of the city of Puerto Montt, and is

are present for navigating the planet’s ex-

surrounded by picturesque towns likes Puer-

treme southern seas.

to Varas, Frutillar, Ensenada, and Puerto Oc-

The scenery is unique and unparalleled, with

tay. It’s Chile’s second largest lake, providing

an amazing variety of wildlife for observing,

a wide range of scenery and activities for any

filming, and snapping photos, and the animals

taste. Whitewater rafting in the area rivers,

never fail to amaze for their ability to thrive in

hiking the trails of national parks, ascending

such a challenging and hostile environment.

the outskirts of Osorno Volcano and trying your luck at the casino in downtown Puerto

Antarctic Dream and Antártica XXI are polar

Varas are all on the table.

region specialists, navigating and exploring the most spectacular points of interest among

This area was settled in the 19th century by

the Southern Shetland Islands and the Ant-

German immigrants, who brought their style

arctic Peninsula, offering three types of pro-

and have put their touch in the architecture,

grams, such as “The Classic,” which includes

pastries, meats (especially pork), and artisan

11 days and 10 nights, the exclusive “Polar Ant-

beers. Puerto Varas is known as the “City of

arctic Circle,” comprising 14 days and 13 nights,

Roses,” thanks to the incredible numbers of

and the new “Fly & Sail” for 8 days and 7 nights,

this type of flower that decorate its streets.

which includes air transportation to or from

Boutique hotels, fine handicraft shops, and

Punta Arenas, and a stop in Ushuaia. There is

gourmet chocolates are on the menu.

also an abundance of activities to do, like kayaking, which will allow you to see thousand year old icebergs up close or camp on the Antarctic coast and then go mountain climbing and hiking among the glaciers.

Every voyage is synonymous with exploration.

From the comfort of every corner of the ship or while doing one of these excursions, you’ll get a glimpse of whales, penguins, and of course the gorgeous white scenery that shows off all of the glory of this spectacular continent.

NATURAL INS P IRATION

ASTRONOMY

cr u i s e s hi p terminal

g ey s er

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naT ional par k

loo ko u t/ p hoto s ite

s alt flat

v olcanoe s

birdwatchin g

botanical par k

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nat u ral mon u ment

flora and fa u na / nat u re re s er v e

beach

FOOD & WINE

The morphology, or geographical develop-

Cachapoal, Casablanca, Colchagua, Curicó,

ment of Central Chile, nestled between the

Elqui, Limarí, Itata, Maipo y Maule, all of which

Andes Mountains and the Pacific Coast, along

allow excursions and tours to learn about the

with the four defined seasons, the fertile val-

history, the production process for each vari-

leys, and special factors like the noticeable dif-

etal, and the chance to sample exquisite food

ference between day and night temperatures,

and wine pairings known as a “maridaje”.

have helped wine production flourish since the arrival of Spanish Conquistadors.

Chilean cuisine is a rich mix of old traditions and ingredients used by the original natives,

In the late 1980’s, wine production here began

with European preparation methods and ten-

to use more modern technology and vine-

dencies, essentially Spanish, which stand out

yards started specializing in the production of

for their simplicity and purity.

wines that could compete on a world stage. In just a few short years, Chile has become one

The Pacific Coast is one of Chile’s greatest as-

of the world’s top wine exporters and a fantas-

sets, for the impressive variety of both fish and

tic producer of premium wines, enhanced by

seafood. There are traditional recipes that vary

specialized methods.

from north to south, with seafood steamed over hot stones on the ground.

Every valley holds its own unique morphological and climactic conditions, which nourish and prime the wines that are crafted there.

For example, the acclaimed Valley of Colchagua is the best producer of red wine varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenère, and Syrah. In the Valley of Casablanca you’ll find the best examples of good white wines, including Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir.

In Chile there are ten wine “routes” according to their denomination of origin: Aconcagua,

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THE PISCO TRAIL IN THE VALLEY OF ELQUI

THE VINEYARDS OF MAIPO BY BIKE

FLAVORS OF THE SEA

Winery tours are already established phenom-

“La Bicicleta Verde” (The Green Bicycle) has

The Pacific Coast is one of Chile’s greatest

ena, but a new tourism tendency has been

been around for three years, and since that

assets, which in terms of its cuisine means

gaining followers lately: tourism that revolves

time has been enabling foreign tourists visit-

there’s a never-ending array of seafood op-

around the “pisqueras,” or pisco production fa-

ing Santiago to roam the streets of the city

tions, like the conger eel, hake fish, and sea

cilities, which lets you study the history and

and nearby vineyards by bicycle, offering a

bass, which are prepared in many different

production process of pisco. As the place with

more environmentally friendly way to explore

ways, plus more unusual treats like Juan Fer-

the greatest concentration of grape planta-

the area.

nandez Island lobster, or the “Pisci” fish from Easter Island, with unique and unmatched

tions for making this spirit, the Valley of Elqui is a prime area for doing a tour.

Bike & Wine Tour is the perfect choice for visit-

flavors.

ing the wine cellars of three of the vineyards The tour itself can take up a full day. The con-

in Alto Maipo. Tastings are done directly from

Travelers who come to Chile in search of fresh

trasts found in this Andean valley are striking,

the barrels of the last winery to be visited,

seafood have all 4,300 kilometers of beaches

because in the midst of the area’s incredible

with the added bonus of the wine being or-

and coast to find it in. Clams, oysters, sea ur-

dryness, very green grapevines penetrate the

ganic. The official tour includes transporta-

chins, pearl oysters, and abalones are all on

Andean mountain ranges.

tion to and from the valley, lunch, the moun-

the menu of the simplest restaurants to local

tain bikes, helmets, and wine samples.

haute cuisine, with a rich fusion of old traditions, like the “Curanto de Chiloé,” seafood

Starting the trip in the morning is recommended, and usually this means departing

The trip starts in Santiago by bus and goes

that’s steamed over hot stones placed on the

from La Serena to a stop in Vicuña, 62 kil-

directly to the Valley of Maipo by way of Pa-

ground.

ometers inland. This is the first mandatory

dre Hurtado Road. Upon arrival, the mountain

stop, made to visit the Capel Facilities Tourist

bike trip runs goes through the premises of

Barbecued Patagonia Lamb is traditional

Center, one of the town’s primary attractions.

the Huelquén, La Montaña, and Perez Cruz

treat from the far south, and the meat is slow

This place has an entire museum dedicated

vineyards. Visitors are granted a private bi-

cooked over the flames of an outdoor fire,

to pisco, with sample of the very first bottles

lingual guide, who informs tourists about

where the get-together that follows often

crafted by the company. The building contin-

the different excursions. Finally, the field trip

ends up getting different groups of travelers

ues to function as a distillery, which permits

comes to an end with a tasting session of the

to talk about their latest adventures. One of

observation of how exactly the liquor is pro-

most important wines and a picnic style lunch

the best things to pair the meat up with is

duced in mass quantities.

offering traditional Chilean fare

a Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon from the Valley of Maipo; these wines have great body and a complexity that perfectly balances out the flavor of barbecued lamb.

F OO D & W INE

V I N E YA R D S

MARKET / FA I R

TRADITIONAL CUISINE

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THE FASCINATING EASTER ISLAND CULTURE

E G A T I R E H & E CULTUR

The more than 600 known Moais (Polynesian island statues) that were carved by the ancient Rapa Nui are spread out throughout the island. The majority of them were sculpted on the quarries of the volcano Rano Raraku.

You can view the giant statues (some measure over 8 meters tall) by heading up the trails the join this part of the national park. From the same spot there’s an incredible panoramic view towards the ocean and the Tongariki ceremonial site. The island has some of the world´s clearest waters, and anyone who wants to take a dip in them by scuba diving will enjoy visibility that ranges from 30 to 60 meters deep. The underwater marine topography is impressive, and full of caves, cliffs, arches, and coral reef fields.

The marine life includes more than 130 species of fish. Apart from the fact that it’s an important archeological site (declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage site in 1995), a big draw is the culture and its traditions, which have

Museums,

culturally-important

buildings,

antique churches, plazas, and parks, artisan

between themselves and the Spanish, and cre-

of the hundreds of writers, painters, and de-

been well maintained and are celebrated an-

ated the Chilean national identity.

signers gathered there, who have fallen in

nually in a February ceremony known as Ta-

love with the city’s hills, full of small, winding

pati.

centers, and picturesque restaurants offering traditional home style fare, all mix with the

The islands of Chile have developed their own

streets, steep stairs, old cable car elevators,

daily hustle and bustle of the cities, and let

identity and culture. The Island of Chiloé, for

overlooks, and colorful houses.

you discover not only the history but also the

example, is known for its food and mythology.

identity of the people.

The “palafitos,” colorful houses built on “stilts,”

Humberstone and Sewell are a testimony to

or posts over water, are one of the big draws

the importance of mining in this country. The

The native peoples, Spanish Conquistadors,

on the island, as well as its churches, all of

first was a small city constructed in 1862 for

and European colonists (who mostly arrived

which were constructed with wood between

nitrate mining. Sewell was founded in 1915

from the 19th century onward) have shaped

the 18th and 19th centuries. There are a hun-

by North American businessmen for copper

the cultural heritage of Chile. This blend of

dred or so of them, but only 16 were declared

companies. It arose right in the middle of the

cultures is reflected in the history, cuisine,

World Heritage Monuments by UNESCO.

Andean mountains and is known as the “City

architecture, traditions, and identity of Chile.

of the Stairs.”

Easter Island is undoubtedly one of human-

Chile has a fascinating past from north to

ity’s great treasures. The Rapa Nui society is

south, with native peoples like the Chinchor-

divided into distinct tribes and classes, first

ro, who were the first to mummify corpses

emphasizing religiosity by worshipping their

in the world with a complex system of death

ancestors (represented by the Moai statues),

rituals, or the Andean tribes that left their

and then adoring a bird man. Today the spirit

mark in stone with their petro glyphs and

of this unique and fascinating culture lives in

geoglyphs, or cultures like the Yámanas and

the traditions of the island’s inhabitants.

Kawéskar that lived by the Patagonian and Tierra del Fuego channels, who braved the

Chile has 5 cultural sites that considered World

chilly local climate naked, or of course the Ma-

Heritage Monuments: the churches of Chiloé,

puche (People of the Earth), who successfully

Easter Island, Humberstone, Sewell, and Val-

resisted the Spanish Conquistadors for over

paraíso. The last one is the city known as the

350 years; all of these groups are direct ances-

cultural capital of the country, due to the fre-

tors who formed part of the mixed blood-line

quent artistic and music festivals and because

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A CULTURAL HERITAGE VISIT TO VALPARAÍSO

CHILE AS A WORLD ASTRONOMICAL POWER

Valparaíso is Chile’s primary port, and from any

There’s no other country in the world that con-

one of its steeply-inclined streets you’ll enjoy a

tains as many projects of global importance re-

privileged view of the bay that bears the same

lated to astronomical observation than Chile.

name and the Pacific Ocean. Its architectural

On the plains of Chajnantor, just a few kilom-

wonders, built on the sides of steep hills, man-

eters from San Pedro de Atacama, there are 66

aged to earn the city the status of a Human

giant parabolic antennas that are 12 meters in

Cultural Heritage Site from UNESCO in 2003.

diameter, all of which are part of the ALMA project, (meaning Atacama Large Millimeter

Several of these old buildings are elegant bou-

Array) a set of telescopes used for viewing the

tique hotels today that, along with restau-

largest astronomical images in the world.

rants that offer foods from around the world have revitalized the alleys and streets of this

The cities of Coquimbo and La Serena, located

city. The city’s touristic and cultural offerings,

about 470 kilometers to the north of Santiago,

avant garde in design, are the perfect location

are a hub of tourism, thanks to being set on

for spending a weekend delighting the senses.

the coast and enjoying a warm climate that

One of the main points of interest is the hun-

consistently attracts thousands of visitors. La

dred year old cable car elevators that go up and

Serena is the gateway to astronomical tour-

down the 44 hills that comprise Valparaíso.

ism, all within an area uniting observatories for star gazing, all under the cleanest and

From “Cerro Alegre” (Happy Hill) you can head

clearest skies in the Southern Hemisphere.

your way down to the Sotomayor Plaza in one of these historic elevators. Hemmed in by a blue building used by the Naval Command, the Prat Pier, a Customs office, and the railroad station, this is the heart of the city. On top of “Cerro Bellavista” (Beautiful View Hill) you’ll encounter “La Sebastiana,” one of the three houses once owned by Nobel Laureate Pablo Neruda.

Another option is to go by foot, up and down the countless sets of stairs to catch a glimpse of the street murals or by paying a visit to the Open Sky Museum.

ET H NI C ITIES M a p u che

87,31 %

R a pa n u i

0,67 %

A imara

7,0 1 %

A lacalu fe

0,3 8%

Atacame ñ O

3,0 4%

C olla

0,46%

Q u ech u a

0,89 %

Y á mana

0,24%

C ULTURE & H ERITAGE

A R C H A E O LO GY

CHAFTS

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hi s t O ric SITE

CHURCH

E T H N O -T O U R I S M

WORLD H E R I TA G E S I T E

folK LO R E

M US E U M C U LT U R A L CENTER

A s tronomical O b s er vation

S S E N L L E W & H HEALT

TOTAL RELAXATION IN HUiLO HUiLO

In Chile there’s a huge variety of scenery and

there are places dedicated to alternative me-

natural attractions, and many of them have

dicinal therapies and meditation, and even

yet to be altered or affected by humans. In the

with air conditioned rooms perfect for doing

middle of remote places, you can find mystic

some of the star gazing that the area is fa-

valleys, hot springs, and spas and hotels exclu-

mous for. The valley is also known as an area

The facilities of a place known as Lawenkon

sively focused on your wellbeing and ready to

that attracts believers in UFOs.

Spa are inside the biological reserve of Huilo Huilo, which has everything that you can im-

help you get some R & R. The extreme south is one of the primary loca-

agine at your disposal to relax, like an indoor

Having more than 4,000 kilometers of moun-

tions for enjoying every bit of what nature has

climate-controlled pool, hydro massages, Ja-

tains and around 500 active volcanoes, a

to offer. One of the best ways to admire the

cuzzis, hydro “therapy” and a sauna. Huilo Hu-

shared feature found from the Atacama Desert

scenery of the Patagonia, the Tierra del Fuego,

ilo lies at a distance of about 860 kilometers

down to the Patagonia area is the hot springs,

and Antarctica is onboard a cruise ship expe-

from Santiago y has roughly 100,000 hectares

ranging from rustic natural wells like Purita-

dition, that promises all of the usual creature

of temperate, wet forest.

ma or Cahuelmó, to luxurious resort centers

comforts of a conventional cruise ship, but

Within the reserve’s territory, there’s a place

like Jahuel, Malalcahuello, Chillán, Puyehue,

whose mission is to get up close and gaze

called Baobab Hotel & Spa, a building that

and Puyuhuapi.

upon the beautiful fjords, wildlife, and enjoy

looks (intentionally) almost exactly like a

the enchantment of the forests and glaciers at

tree, and the Montaña Mágica Lodge, a hotel

the end of the world.

shaped like a volcano that the British daily The

The lakes and volcanoes “Macrozona” has the

Guardian considers to be one of the world’s

densest concentration of hot springs in South America, and they stand out especially thanks

The main tourist draws, like Santiago, Easter

most attention-grabbing structures. A new-

to the natural beauty of native forests and

Island, San Pedro de Atacama, and the Patago-

comer is the Nawelpi Lodge, with 12 luxury

the healing properties of the waters. Plus, in

nia, all boast a thoroughly modern hotel in-

suites that are made of wood and stone, with

places like Chillán, Araucanía Andina, Pucón,

frastructure with spas, where you’ll notice the

a view of the native forest and set near the

and Puyehue, you can relax and enjoy both hot

use of natural products from the Earth itself,

banks of the River Fuy.

springs and winter sports and their respective

such as for alternative therapies that use al-

modern ski resorts.

gae, thermal mud (mud from the hot springs), and even wine.

Spirituality and mysticism make their mark in Chile too. In the north, in the Valley of Elqui,

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THE HOT SPRINGS OF PURITAMA Thirty kilometers to the north of San Pedro de Atacama is where you’ll find the “Termas de Puritama” (Puritama Hot Springs), derived from waters that come to the surface at 33.5 degrees latitude from a river that bears the same name. The environment is rural, but the sensation of taking a bath at 3,500 meters (11,500 feet) above sea level in the middle of nowhere is very unique experience in the midst of the countryside of the Atacama Desert. Wooden runways connect the different parts of the natural springs, and while you relax in the thermal waters, guides will set up a diverse and bountiful picnic that enhances the high altitude experience; definitely a must see in this oasis of the Chilean north.

HOT SPRINGS AT THE “VENTISQUERO DE PUYUHUAPI”

Right in the midst of Chile’s amazing Patagonian scenery, you’ll find the natural hot spring pools “Termas de Puyuhuapi,” with a temperature between 35° and 44° Celsius (95° and 111° F) and perfect for relaxing after a long day of hiking to the Hanging Glaciers. The best part of this is that during the summer season you can soak up the warm waters while admiring the clear night skies endowed with a seemingly infinite array of stars.

The area of Puyuhuapi is surrounded by thousand year old forests with an impressively diverse range of native species, such as the unique “coigüe” (Chilean Cherry) and the tepa tree, which is found in roughly the southern half of the country. The Queulat and Laguna del Puma National Parks are ideal for forest walks along quiet paths that boast the “nalcas”, Chilean rhubarb, and “chilco”, Chilean fuchsia.

Hot Springs El Ventisquero de Puyuhuapi

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H EALT H & W ELLNESS

H O T SP R I N G

M E D I TAT I O N CENTER

E L Y T S E F I L & E LEISUR

GETTING LOST IN THE HILLS OF VALPARAÍSO

The emblematic Chilean port town offers a lifestyle that remains on the cutting edge of trends in all things related to food, design and the development of boutique hotels. Going up and down the hills in the open air is a true cultural experience, and it’s something you options along the coastal hills.

Santiago is in. It’s also growing in terms of

these mega cities: some of the world’s most

its cultural offerings, cuisine, nightlife, and

active.

designer hotels, and has recently been high-

Cultural centers, theaters, art galleries, librar-

This nocturnal bohemia also pervades cities

lighted in prominent media outlets and tour-

ies, film and documentary festivals, massive

like Iquique, Antofagasta, Coquimbo, La Ser-

ism guides throughout the world.

concert events like Lollapalooza-Santiago was

ena, Viña del Mar, Concepción, Valdivia, Temu-

chosen as the first city outside of the US for

co, and Puerto Natales. To top it off, the party

“Best tourist destination to visit in 2011”.

this multiday concert to take place-and the ac-

continues with plenty of modern casinos that

The New York Times.

claimed Museum of Fashion, have all turned

dot the landscape in or near the country’s

Chile’s capital city into an important artistic

most important cities.

“Santiago, Chile is constantly renewed at the

mecca in South America.

pace of museums, tea salons, art galleries, and a thousand leisure activities.”

Santiago’s cuisine can’t go without mention-

Supplement Ocholeguas, El Mundo

ing either, with its huge selection of bars, pubs, and gourmet restaurants, where the

“Santiago Chile has reinvented itself (…) Today

main event is seafood and fish, meats, and

it wins points with its galleries, festivals, and

international delights, always paired with the

prestigious chefs. Take a trip to this new cos-

best local wines. Some districts and neighbor-

mopolitan star.”

hoods known for food and a bohemian atmos-

Der Spiegel

phere that should be highlighted are Bellavista, Lastarria, República, Yungay, Brasil, Concha

“Santiago se mueve con una energía conta-

y Toro, Italia, and the Nueva Costanera.

giosa y una creciente confianza”.

LonelyPlanet.

But the arts, haute cuisine, and nightlife don’t stay just in Santiago. Valparaíso, with its dis-

Even the British magazine Dazed and Con-

tinctive design and architecture, complements

fused chose Santiago, together with Paris,

the affair with open air artistic festivals, bou-

Rome, Moscow, Munich, Dubai, and Shangai

tique hotels, gourmet restaurants, and dozens

for its project called Satellite Voices, a web

of artist workshops, independent sculptors

site dedicated to sharing the latest events in

and designers, and a healthy array of nightlife

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can feel in each and every nook and cranny.

Bars, cafeterias, museums, restaurants, and, of course, the old cable car elevators, are all part of the charm of this gorgeous port city and its unspoiled view of the Pacific Ocean.

The city’s architectural creations, with everything built on hillsides, earned the city the status of a Human World Heritage Monument

by UNESCO in 2003. But in order to enjoy the city, you have to be willing to go up and down steep stairs or enjoy the ride in one of the hundred year old cable car elevators that traverse parts of the 44 hills comprising the “cultural capital of Chile”.

The literary works of Chilean Nobel Laureate Pablo Neruda have staunch links to the sea.

The inspirational elements of his homes all face towards infinite horizons in the direction of the sea. Valparaíso was a place with great significance for him and some of the establishments and sites that he frequently visited during strolls through the port city still remain.

The restaurant Menzel and antique shop El Abuelo harbor more than just memories of get- together and past reunions, but also are part of a history that’s one of Valparaiso’s strengths as a tourist destination.

PUERTO NATALES AND ITS CULINARY RENAISSANCE

ROAMING THROUGH THE NEIGHBORHOODS OF SANTIAGO ON FOOT

Today this small city in the middle of the wilds

The best method for exploring a city is by

When you approach a street called Merced,

of the Patagonia has turned into a true food

simply walking down its streets. Regardless

you’ll notice the abundance of neoclassi-

mecca that draws thousands of foreign tour-

of municipal boundaries (in Chile each inde-

cal style buildings, and the next mandatory

ists to its streets. It’s a place where a stop to

pendent city is called a “comuna”), Santiago

stop is a little corner ice cream shop called

visit on the way to Torres del Paine isn’t op-

has many neighborhoods and areas that were

“Emporio La Rosa,” and you can even try the

tional.

created in different ways by social interaction.

ice cream flavor that’s based on the flower

Some of these neighborhoods include high

(“La Rosa,” The Rose) that inspired the shop’s

The boutique hotels, which took advantage of

value architectural styles (in historical terms

name.

the building boom of the start of the 20th cen-

at least) and have become city icons.

tury, are a testament to the regional expansion and the gastronomic revolution currently

The mere act of roaming their streets is like a

taking place in Puerto Natales

trip down memory lane. In “Barrio Italia” (the “Italy District”), a traditional neighborhood in

Many of the new “colonists” in Puerto Natales

the municipality of Providencia, for example,

are young entrepreneurs following their pas-

there are no real multistory buildings, but in-

sion for good food. They mix the best ingredi-

stead rows of antique facades from the early

ents from the sea, the land and its incredible

20th century in the front walls of the houses

surroundings, and a high quality of life.

that have been converted into restaurants and design shops.

They make sure that each dish and each beverage contain something that gives you the

In this area there are twenty something fur-

sensation that you are truly enjoying what life

niture restoration shops where workers toil

has to offer in a unique corner of the world.

away outside on the sidewalks, giving the

The food says a lot about both the history and

area a special touch. The neighborhood has a

the people of the city.

selection of restaurants ranging from Italian food to German, Indian, and even Russian, plus small art galleries, bars, kiosks where you can buy flowers and gourmet cafeterias.

Between “Parque Forestal” and General Bernardo O’Higgins Avenue (known locally as “la Alameda”) there’s a gem called “Barrio Lastarria” (the Lastarria Neighborhood) and its main street, José Victorino Lastarria, a small oasis of tranquility in the middle of the busyness of downtown Santiago. The recipe, however, is the same: food and culture. The pride and joy of this district is the Museum of Visual Arts, with contemporary Chilean art collections from the 1960’s onward. The murals of Chilean painter Roberto Matta, next to the plaza Mulato Gil, should not be missed.

LEISURE & LI F EST Y LE

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ca s ino

S H O PP I N G CENTER

NIGHT LIFE

WHAT IS TURISMO CHILE? Turismo Chile is a nonprofit organization that joins the forces of both the public and private sectors to promote Chile as a tourist destination in the global markets. Its efforts consist of streamlining these forces to improve the cost benefit ratio, and promoting Chile internationally, while its management goal is to achieve on one hand create an awareness of Chile as a great tourist destination, along with the commercialization of associated tourism company. Its main mission, from the first day of operations in 1994, is to position Chile in global tourism circles as a stable, safe, exciting, and attractive destination.

CONTACT US! For more information, please visit out web site: www.chile.travel Media center contact: prensa@turismochile.travel +56 路 2 路 429 08 30

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