The small town of San Pedro de Atacama is a scenic oasis in the Atacama Desert, surrounded by the imposing volcanic peaks of the Chilean altiplano and located close to several major archaeological and natural attractions. The fascinating ancient sites of Tulor and Quitor, the enthralling Atacama Salt Flat, the jaw-dropping turquoise Altiplanic Lagoons, and the other-worldly Tatio Geysers all lie nearby, and as a result, the village has become a significant tourist destination. Despite its small size it encompasses a wide range of restaurants; however, it is also known for its ‘western feel’ and retains an old-world charm. History enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the atmospheric 17th-century Iglesia San Pedro. However, it is really the breathtaking surroundings that make this destination special.
Santiago, the vibrant capital of Chile, is situated in the country's Central Valley, with the impressive Andes Mountains providing a spectacular natural backdrop. A dynamic cosmopolitan metropolis, the city combines rich history and culture with contemporary urban living, offering travellers an engaging introduction to Chile. Visitors can explore the historic Plaza de Armas, admire the architecture of La Moneda Palace and enjoy panoramic city views from Cerro San Cristóbal. Santiago also boasts a diverse culinary scene, lively neighbourhoods such as Bellavista and Lastarria, and an excellent selection of museums and galleries. Beyond the city, travellers can discover the renowned vineyards of the Maipo Valley, explore the Andes through mountain excursions and ski resorts, or take a day trip to the Pacific coast.
Torres del Paine National Park is a Chilean National Park comprising mountains, glaciers, lakes and rivers. The Cordillera del Paine is the centrepiece of the park. It lies in a transition area between the Magellanic sub-polar forests and the Patagonian Steppes. The park is located 112 km north of Puerto Natales and 312 km north of Punta Arenas. Bernardo O'Higgins National Park is its neighbour to the west, while Los Glaciares National Park is located to the north in Argentine territory.
As previously described
With its dramatic blue glaciers, vibrant forests, cascading waterfalls, aquamarine lakes, mighty rivers and towering jagged peaks, Chile’s Southern Patagonia is widely considered to be the final frontier of travel with some of the last truly untouched natural areas on earth. The heart of this sparsely populated and ruggedly beautiful area is the Torres del Paine National Park, featuring a massif crowned with otherworldly horn-shaped peaks, surrounded by pristine lowlands where the huaso countrymen, or baqueano, practice age-old cattle herding traditions. Whether you are keen to hike through rugged landscapes, see penguins by the thousands, or horseback ride across the breathtakingly beautiful steppe, Chilean Patagonia is an ideal destination for travellers seeking an unforgettably wild and impossibly scenic adventure.
