Resting in a valley surrounded by the snow-capped Andes and the Chilean Coast Range, Chile’s vibrant, cosmopolitan, the capital city of Santiago is famous for its beautiful parks, a wealth of historical attractions, and exciting arts and music scenes. The Cerro San Cristobal Park, the largest green space in the city, lies on a hill and is reached by a funicular ride. It offers visitors stunning sweeping views of the city, as well as a picturesque botanical garden and two huge swimming pools. The colonial Plaza de Armas, in the old town centre, is a delight to explore with its numerous Neoclassical buildings and museums, most notably the home-turned-museum of renowned poet Pablo Neruda. Visitors can also look forward to wonderful live shows, concerts and exhibitions.
Valparaíso is a colourful port city on Chile's central Pacific coast, spread dramatically across steep hills overlooking a broad natural bay. Its historic quarter is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its distinctive late-19th-century architecture, winding streets and historic funiculars. The city's hills, particularly Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción, are known for brightly painted houses, street art, galleries, cafés and viewpoints across the harbour. Travellers can explore the historic neighbourhoods on foot, ride the heritage elevators and discover murals around almost every corner, while the city's port heritage and lively cultural scene add further character. With its bohemian atmosphere, colourful hillside streets and Pacific setting, Valparaíso offers a distinctly different urban experience from nearby Santiago.
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.
