2026 Chile Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in January)

🏔️ A must-visit pilgrimage hiking destination｜120 km panoramic photography hike in Patagonia, opening the door to wilderness and freedom Some say Outdoor enthusiasts who haven't been to Patagonia Always lack a gust of wind in their soul, A glacier, A silent mountain This is the end of the world, A wilderness where wind and light write poetry, The ultimate dream for hikers once in a lifetime 🔹 ▫️The wind will tell you what vastness means ▫️The glacier tells you what eternity means ▫️The mountains teach you what the silence of the soul means This is not a tourist spot, It is the closest appearance of the Earth to a "primordial planet" 🌟 Not a pieced-together route, but a deeply refined dual-country hiking route truly belonging to Chinese hikers, crafted from years of scouting experience in South America >> Chile · Torres del Paine National Park Route A globally classic hiking route ✔️Torres del Paine Peaks — like blades cutting through the sky ✔️French Valley — a 360° theater of snow-capped mountains and glaciers ✔️Grey Lake Glacier — ice-blue fragments of time >> Argentina · Fitz Roy Camping A truly hardcore wilderness ritual ✔️Fitz Roy golden sunrise ✔️Lake Pollone and glacier hike ✔️Southern Hemisphere 50° starry sky and Milky Way photography ————— 📸 Photography lovers rejoice｜Every shot looks like a movie still >> Fitz Roy “light explosion” moments >> Patagonia storm clouds epic shots >> Pure ice blue of Grey Lake Glacier >> Argentina side Milky Way without light pollution Designed pacing based on wind direction, lighting, and camera positions, so you won’t miss a single ray of divine light. ⛺ About the pace · Not rushing, but feeling the journey ▫️Avoid crowds, enjoy exclusive shooting times ▫️Carefully arranged campsite locations facing snow mountains/lakes ▫️Lightweight hiking + professional alpine camping, focused on experience ————— 🗓️ Seasonal guide Best hiking: October to April (spring, summer, autumn in the Southern Hemisphere) ✨ We believe true hiking is not just “walking through,” but “walking into” Into the wind, Into the breath of glaciers, Into Patagonia’s never-repeating sunrises and starlight Itinerary D1: Arrive at Puerto Natales, Chile D2: W Route: Day 1 hike at the base of Torres del Paine D3: W Route: Day 2 hike to French Valley viewpoint D4: W Route: Day 3 hike to Grey Lake viewpoint D5: Puerto Natales, Chile to El Chaltén, Argentina D6: El Calafate to El Chaltén D7: Argentina hiking Day 1: Lake Pollone and glacier D8: Argentina hiking Day 2: Three Lakes D9: Argentina hiking Day 3: Lake Torre D10: Argentina hiking Day 4: Return to El Chaltén D11: El Chaltén departure

The **Atacama Desert** in northern Chile is renowned as the driest desert in the world, with a climate that ranks among the most arid on Earth. This barren yet awe-inspiring region is a dream destination for nature explorers and photography enthusiasts. 🌍🏜️ The Atacama Desert boasts a variety of natural wonders, including volcanoes, high-altitude lakes, salt flats, and hot springs. Situated at an altitude of over 4,000 meters, it offers a unique climate and environment. Visitors can marvel at star-filled skies, surreal landscapes, and enjoy adventurous activities. 🌟 Highlights of the Atacama Desert Salt Flats: The salt flats of the Atacama Desert feature endless stretches of shimmering white terrain. Watching the sunset here reveals stunning color changes created by the interplay of sand and salt. Tatio Geysers: Located in the high-altitude region of the desert, the Tatio Geysers are a geothermal area where visitors can experience hot steam and springs amidst dramatic temperature contrasts. Early morning visits are recommended. Atacama Highlands (Laguna Miscanti and Laguna Miñiques): These high-altitude lakes offer pristine natural beauty, surrounded by mountainous terrain and towering volcanoes, creating breathtaking scenery. Stargazing: The Atacama Desert is one of the world's best stargazing locations, with a night sky filled with countless stars. Numerous observatories provide opportunities for close-up views of celestial wonders. Hiking and Sand Dunes: Adventurous activities like hiking up sand dunes are popular in the Atacama Desert. **Barrancas de Chile** is particularly suitable for hiking and mountain biking. 🕒 Travel Tips Best Travel Seasons: Spring and autumn are ideal for visiting. Summers can be extremely hot, while winter nights are very cold. Mild weather during spring and autumn makes these seasons perfect for exploration. Sand Dune Hiking: When hiking sand dunes, bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. Prepare for temperature changes by packing extra clothing. Stargazing: For stargazing, warm clothing is essential as nights can be chilly. Guided tours at observatories enhance the experience. Weather Variations: The Atacama Desert's high-altitude location means unpredictable weather. Check forecasts and pack waterproof jackets and warm clothing for outdoor activities. Activity Reservations: Book tours like cruises, boat trips, and stargazing experiences in advance. Summer is a busy season, so early reservations are recommended.

🏔 Into the Serene Snowy Mountains of Patagonia in October --- 📍 Travel Summary A tranquil snowy mountain with no one around, just the wind, clouds, lakes, and me. A 4-day, 3-night journey through the W Trek in Patagonia, walking my own path. --- ✨ Travel Highlights Travel Period: Early October (right at the start of the trekking season, with a peaceful atmosphere) Trekking Route: W Trek, 4 days and 3 nights, averaging 20km per day Highlights: The grandeur of nature in the land of winds, Patagonia Special pastel-like clouds painted across the sky The solitude of camping and trekking through snowy mountains Finale: Witnessing a majestic sunrise at the Torres del Paine viewpoint at dawn --- 🚶♂️ Travelogue In early October, Patagonia had just opened its trekking season, and the trails were almost empty. The three of us barely spoke, walking at our own pace except at the campsites. That solitude, as if walking alone, strangely filled my heart. Snow-covered mountains stretched out in all directions, but the low altitude meant snow-covered paths were rare. Strong winds whipped up sprays over the lakes, and the sky was adorned with soft, pastel-like clouds. One of those cloud photos even won an award in a meteorological photo contest for its uniqueness. --- After reaching the Italiano campsite, we climbed to a midpoint without our gear. Unlike the Himalayas, the vast lakes and the black-and-white divided rocky mountains were striking. The fierce winds made it clear why this place is called the "land of winds." --- 😅 A Small Mishap On the last day, we missed a "shortcut," which led to a grueling descent and climb back up. To make matters worse, I had an upset stomach and had to detour to a hotel restroom. Climbing that steep slope before sunset left no room for rest. --- 🌅 The Best Moment At 4 a.m., with a flashlight in hand, we ascended to the Torres del Paine viewpoint. As the sky gradually brightened, although the three peaks were partially obscured by clouds, the mystical harmony of the lake and peaks was breathtakingly beautiful. The sense of accomplishment after the 4-day journey was indescribable. --- 🍷 The Finale Back in Puerto Natales, we celebrated our trek completion with steak and wine, promising, "Someday, let's return here with our families." This experience later inspired me to take on a 17-day trek in the Himalayas.

A 3-night, 4-day journey in the heart of Patagonia: The story of the first two days --- 🛫 Starting Point: Arrival in Puerto Natales Departing early morning from El Calafate, Argentina, crossing the Chilean border, and arriving at Puerto Natales, the gateway to the W Trek. This small fishing village is perfect for a one-night stay before the trek, offering easy access to essential camping gear and food supplies. 💡 Travel Tips - Prices are relatively high, so sharing the cost of gear and food with companions can help save money. - The bus terminal is a 20-minute walk from the town center, so taxis are unnecessary. --- 🚢 Day 1: Starting the W Trek from the West After paying the entrance fee at the national park, we chose the westward starting route. The ferry ride offered breathtaking views of Patagonia's majestic landscapes, a moving experience in itself. First Trek: 11 km (one way), gentle slopes, approximately 3–4 hours. After reaching the campsite, we went on a day hike to the Grey Glacier viewpoint. 💡 Highlights - Beware of the extremely windy sections—hats are a must! - The glacier and massive icebergs seen from the viewpoint were like scenes from a movie. - The charred forest and closed-off areas due to past wildfires were a somber sight. --- 🏕 Camping Under the Stars Dinner consisted of ramen and beer brought from El Calafate, paired with a glass of local boxed wine. The campsite showers were either scalding hot or freezing cold—no in-between! 😂 We even found Made in Korea gas canisters—a delightful surprise on the other side of the globe. --- 🚶♂️ Day 2: A Relaxed Route on Mostly Flat Terrain The day began with a downhill section, followed by a 7.6 km trek to the free Italiano campsite. Although the total distance for the day was 18.6 km, the flat terrain made it less physically demanding. Leaving the glacier behind, we were greeted by clear blue skies and the vast, awe-inspiring landscapes of Patagonia. --- 📍 To be continued… The next installment will cover the third day and the grand journey toward the Paine peaks.

Chile 🇨🇱 is an underrated country Deserts, glaciers, grasslands, oceans, culture... It has everything you want. I only learned about this country through "Divas Hit the Road 6." I didn't expect it to be so fun. Here's a Chile 🇨🇱 travel guide for you 🤲 · Recommended attractions ✅: 1⃣️ Torres del Paine National Park: Named one of the "Top 5 Most Beautiful Places in the World" and one of the "50 Places to Visit in Your Lifetime" by National Geographic. It has lakes, glaciers, grasslands, and forests, and is a famous nature reserve and hiking destination. Lonely Planet once called its trails the "best hiking routes in the world." · 2⃣️ Patagonia Icefield: A 20,000-year-old icefield that connects to the Antarctic ice sheet. Visitors can witness the glacially eroded coast and the fusion of ice and seawater. · 3⃣️ Atacama Desert: Known as the "driest place on Earth," it is one of the driest regions in the world. It has natural landscapes such as salt lakes, highland lakes, geysers, and the Valley of the Moon, as well as a pure night sky, making it an excellent place for stargazing. · 4⃣️ Easter Island: Famous for its mysterious Moai statues, it is a unique cultural site in the world. · 5⃣️ Santiago: The capital of Chile, a vibrant city with rich museums, cultural activities, and cuisine. · 6⃣️ Valparaíso: The second largest city in Chile, known for its harbor, bay, street graffiti, and vintage elevators. · 7⃣️ Wine regions: Chile's Maipo Valley and Colchagua Valley are famous wine regions, offering winery tours and wine tasting experiences. · 8⃣️ Chiloé Island: Known for its wooden churches, cuisine, and natural scenery, it is a charming place to explore Chilean myths and legends. · 9⃣️ Pucón: Located in the Lake District, it is a paradise for adventure travelers with its volcanic backdrop and lakes. · Recommended itinerary ✅: Day 1-2⛳: Explore Santiago, including Plaza de Armas, Santiago Cathedral, National History Museum, and Pre-Columbian Art Museum. Enjoy the city night view at Cerro Santa Lucía or Cerro San Cristóbal in the evening. · Day 3⛳: Head to Valparaíso to experience this artistic port city and admire street graffiti and historical buildings. · Day 4-8⛳: Choose to visit one of Easter Island, Torres del Paine National Park, or the Atacama Desert. · Recommended food ✅: 🔹 Parmesan Machas: A classic Chilean appetizer. 🔹 Chilean Empanadas: Chile's "national dish" with a variety of fillings. 🔹 Grilled Chicken: Grilled with charcoal or wood, with a golden crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. · Travel tips ✅: 🔸 October to April is the best time to explore the beauty of Chile. 🔸 A valid US/Canada visa for more than six months allows visa-free entry to Chile. 🔸 The official currency of Chile is the peso. Remember to exchange some before you leave.

This is a place that backpackers traveling through South America must pass by. 'San Pedro de Atacama' The indescribable natural scenery made of salt and crystals must be seen in person. The scenery that has not changed for billions of years amplifies the mystery of nature. The place that the main character loved the most in the drama 'My Love from the Star'!

I came here because all the locals I met in Chile recommended it. I always go to places that are good! Puerto Varas, a tourist city and resort in Chile. It is the best place to enjoy the mountains, rivers, and the sea all at once, centered around the Osorno Mountain, which can be seen from anywhere in the town. If you love nature, it is a place where you can come for a day and stay for several days.

San Diego is the heritage of modernity. The dynamic and international 'Santiago' highlights Chile's culture and holds an important international art festival with its unique taste and color activities. The best way to explore the city is to visit the original art galleries on the street, stores with innovative designs and crafts fairs, as well as restaurants, bars and cafes. Don

Walking in Puerto Varas, the so-called 'the city of roses', you will find unique traditional Germanic architecture, as well as modern residential areas with well-organized gardens. If you an adventure lover, this place is suitable for you! Kayaking and fishing are some of the activities you can surely enjoy. Rent a bike from Puerto Varas to get to Saltos del Petrohué and enjoy a

Chilo é, tierrade tradici ó nyleyendas 'a land of myth, legend, tradition and unparalleled cuisine. Know that Chilo é will enter a magical world full of amazing cultural and natural wealth. Chilo é will surprise you since you first set foot on the big island. It is found that its poetic and picturesque 'palafitos' was built in the water in the colorful houses with long wooden po

There is a Moon Valley in the Atacama Desert of Chile, named after its geological and similar lunar surface. During the day, the Moon Valley is hot and the tourists are in a constant stream, and the cold winds in the night are unremarkable. There is a secret in the Moon Valley, which is to look at the valley on the full moon night. Under the moonlight, the ore in the rock will sparkle, and the stars everywhere will echo the stars of the moon, just like walking in the universe. San Pedro de Atacama is a small travel agency that can book a group to go to the moon. 70,000 pesos 4 tours. Many people will go to the sunset group of the brightness of the month. Because the sunset here is particularly spectacular. I also saw self-driving, but it seems that there are not many ~ it is recommended to report to the group to save trouble. Take more water and dress more!

There are rivers and lakes in the place where graffiti is there, and there are places where there are rivers and lakes! The gates of Graffiti Mountain City are like the hidden magic entrance in Harry Potter. From the narrow to the one-passage alley to the old-fashioned elevator, the elevator rises at a 45-degree angle, and it really enters the legendary [Chile] graffiti art holy place - Valparaiso ~ This small town is less than 2 hours drive from San Diego and can be used for a day trip. It used to be a village of Indians and later became a colony of the Spanish. As a result, the style has changed dramatically and it has become such a diverse and colorful city. The local public transportation is very developed. You can take the bus directly to the San Diego bus terminal (every half an hour, there is a lot of car to worry about)~ Go to Valparaiso to find the elevator entrance into the mountain city. How to find the specific entrance, can only rely on you to ask the locals ~ I am also brought into the city full of hahahaha this hill town "devil ghost" rampage, everywhere is a surprise ~ absolutely you Another world that can't be imagined! ! !

Driving on the border between Chile and Bolivia, stopping on the way to the snow-capped mountains, plateaus, lakes, llamas... I met a wounded, treacherous little fox, and divided it into a piece of meat... Nature is like a Pandora's box. There is wind in the box, there is snow, there are mountains, there is water, there is sunshine, there are life, everything is changed, crushed, reorganized, and then smashed with the seasons. Reorganize... No one can read all this change, so there are a thousand kinds of scenery in the eyes of a thousand people... I didn't cry, but my nose couldn't stop. Traffic: You can book directly from the small town of San Pedro de Atacama in the Atacama Desert ~ one day trip, start early in the morning and return at night. The price is between 70-120 US dollars, depending on how you go to the local area to bargain with the travel agency. The scenery there is beautiful, personal feeling, more suitable for driving. So if you have the ability, you can rent a car and enjoy the scenery along the way! Ps: Remember to wear thick clothes! The wind is very big, huge cold!

It is important to visit a scenic spot in the Baie National Park in Chile. The guide told us that during the summer tourist season, this viewing platform that can be photographed with Xueshan listened to 10 tourist buses in minutes, and said that 50 people would line up for photography. The most interesting cognition of the peak travel is to go up the stairs after entering the Baine National Park. It is said that the wind speed here can reach 120 meters per second in summer, and many tourists will be turned over by the wind. Although the summer temperature will be a few degrees warmer than the present, but after all, it is the wind from the glacier, in fact, it really hangs on the skin, and the average temperature of 0 to 3 degrees is not much different. Why did the name "Baiine Paine" come from? In fact, in the local language, Paine means "blue". Here is blue, the mountain is blue, the sky is blue, and "Bene" is named. Of course, in the late autumn, a lot of colors were added to Benedict. In addition to the wrong peak, you can choose to visit Baiyuan in the late autumn. You must not miss the one-night stay in the Baie National Park and the glaciers of the famous Glacier. Since Benee National Park can be rated as "the 50 places that must be visited in the world", its power is naturally amazing. As a flower that is still rippling in the aftermath of the shock, I hope that everyone can see such a beautiful scene.

In this southernmost, hardest-to-reach, and most pristine and vast small town on Earth—Puerto Williams, Chile—we boarded the "Silver Sea Endeavour" cruise ship and finally began the long-awaited Antarctic adventure😆 The boarding time was originally scheduled for 12 noon, but to avoid the winds and waves of the Drake Passage and choose the best sailing time, the ship decided to move the boarding up to 6 a.m. before dawn. We rushed from the seaside cabins to the pier. With the enthusiastic and orderly guidance of the staff, we quickly completed the procedures and became the first passengers to board. This cruise ship would accompany us through the next 11 days at sea. The rooms on the ship are spacious and fully equipped. On the bed were the bright red down jackets, backpacks, the cruise itinerary, and the captain’s introduction, all gifts from the ship. Although our small group of four traveling independently had arrived smoothly, the main tour group from the travel agency had not yet flown in from Santiago, Chile. Additionally, the ship’s maintenance and resupply at the dock were slower than expected, so we unfortunately missed the best window to cross the Drake Passage. At this time, the sea was getting rough, and to ensure the safety of everyone on board, the captain decisively adjusted the route, diverting to the Beagle Channel to first explore the fjords of Tierra del Fuego while waiting for the waves to calm. Who knew that waiting would last a full two days. Polar journeys are always full of uncertainties—sudden weather changes and increased waves often disrupt plans—but for those who love surprises and adventure, it should be a wonderful experience. Honestly, we liked these uncertainties too. Although we are all over sixty and no longer young, we remain curious about the world. Even better, most of us are retired, with plenty of time and patience to embrace and digest whatever happens. This trip is accompanied by like-minded classmates and friendly neighbors. Outside the window are snowy peaks, glaciers, and quiet fjords; inside, we sit around drinking tea and chatting happily. Mealtimes offer delicious dishes from various countries, and we eat and drink to our heart’s content. In the evening, the lounge is filled with piano music and singing, and two neighbors who played on the community ping-pong team have now played on the Antarctic cruise... Fellow travelers find rare calm and warmth in the wait. The captain held a welcome cocktail party as scheduled, with everyone dressed formally, raising glasses in celebration, and the ceremony brought together the camaraderie and anticipation of all aboard. At this moment, we are not only explorers but also visitors and companions of nature. The ship’s staff constantly monitor the weather and sea conditions, protecting everyone’s safety with professionalism and caution. Passengers also look out for each other and share their experiences, turning the wait into an opportunity for communication and connection. In this remote and pure land, kindness among people, respect for nature, and tolerance for the journey together weave a stable and beautiful beginning. We are still quietly waiting for a safe and comfortable crossing opportunity. This unexpected stay also allows us to more deeply appreciate the beauty of the journey—not only in the destination but in the people we travel with, the hearts we share, and the calm and hope ready to embrace uncertainty at any moment😌

⛰️God’s eye view of Santiago｜A timeless glance from the summit of Cerro San Cristóbal 📍Address: Pío Nono 450, 7520291 Providencia, Región Metropolitana ✨Giant Virgin Mary statue overlooking the entire city from the summit 🚡Cable car gliding through the sea of clouds, full of comic book vibes 📌Cerro San Cristóbal Tips: ✅A must for the lazy—round trip by little train and cable car ✅Don’t forget to order Mote con Huesillo at the mid-mountain café! A local specialty peach and oat drink

🕐11/28 — 12/8 🚢 Cruise Line & Ship Type: Lindblad Expeditions - National Geographic Resolution 💰$15,394 per person (including round-trip airfare from Santiago, Chile to Ushuaia and one night’s hotel stay in Santiago, Chile) At the beginning of the year, I was inspired by NG’s ship to Antarctica in the company’s workplace group and quietly added it to my travel list. But by the time I started planning the year-end trip, we had missed all the discount periods. Following the spirit of saving where possible and spending where necessary, we booked the cheapest cabin: for NG’s Endurance and Resolution ships, even the cheapest cabins have large windows + bay window sofas and can easily open two large suitcases, so for us who spend all day outside, not having a balcony was absolutely no problem! 📷 Cameras can be rented for free on board, you just need to bring your own large-capacity memory card, which is really a big plus 👍 🇦🇶 The weather in Antarctica changes very quickly, and I’m really glad we chose NG’s ship: because of a storm in the Pacific, our ship changed the original plan and headed straight south, crossing the Antarctic Circle to find a shelter! At this time, other ships were all hiding near the northern part of the peninsula to avoid the storm. When we set off, the waves in the Drake Passage were 20 ft, but it had no impact on our itinerary, and we departed on time~ Passenger capacity of the cruise is also very important: our last Zodiac Cruise allowed all guests to go ashore for the tour at the same time, then rendezvous with the big ship in the Lima Channel and continue landing. 🍽️ Food: I have to say that although NG’s ship focuses more on adventure than lounging and luxury, the food is definitely not lacking, every meal was delicious 😋 I originally thought I would lose weight on the cruise, but now that we’re about to disembark, I’m almost gaining weight. I’ll post a record of the daily meals later~ (There were a few soups so good that I directly asked the chef for the recipes, and he kindly printed them out for me) The whole ship is functional: there is only one main dining room + one small restaurant (serving only breakfast and light lunch), two small saunas, one lounge for “lectures” + final party, one library, a small gym, and two or three massage rooms. So if you want to lounge and relax, options are limited. Base Camp has plenty of space, and every time we went out and came back from expeditions, it never felt crowded; the deck and the captain’s bridge are also spacious with wide open views, making it very convenient for bird watching, whale watching, and enjoying iceberg scenery 👍 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 The guests on board are generally older, but all very energetic, and many are photography experts, so you can learn a lot from chatting with them 👍 🈯️ For booking, you can go through the official website or contact them for more consultation and discounts, and it’s very convenient to get in touch. Highly recommended 👍

I stumbled upon a ship on my birthday by accident. So, I ate my birthday meal with the Drake Passage as my companion, which was followed by a night I almost rolled out of bed. Chile - Puerto Williams 8:21 AM Right now, I'm on a Silversea charter flight bound for Puerto Williams. Due to weather conditions, we were crammed onto the plane at the last minute, and our flight itinerary was adjusted. After turning off my first alarm at 6:40 AM and hearing birthday wishes, I was about to calmly wash up when there was an urgent knock on the door, informing me that I needed to assemble immediately for the flight. My brain immediately went into overdrive, and I used every ounce of my energy to finish washing up, closing my suitcase, going downstairs to assemble, checking my visa, and grabbing breakfast from the restaurant within ten minutes. All of this, which should have been perfectly organized, happened before the flight, originally scheduled to depart at 9:00 AM. Drake Passage 9:40 PM I felt the endless rise and fall of the Drake Passage across the ship's deck, like feeling its heartbeat. We've been on the Drake Passage for a day now. Rather than saying I celebrated my birthday in Antarctica, it would be more accurate to say that Antarctica gifted me a romantic experience. Another Antarctic has been added to my world of mountains, rivers, lakes, and seas.

Due to unfavorable sea conditions at Puerto Aysen, the travel plan was adjusted to a different itinerary—adaptability is key! 👍 Puerto Chacabuco is a port connecting to the eastern Pacific Ocean. The journey passes by the scenic shores of Lago Portales (Portales Lake), featuring picturesque landscapes and charming pastoral cabins, creating a breathtakingly beautiful view like a painting. The winds at the shores of Lago Portales are quite strong, and there’s a local hidden gem, the Cascada Lipi waterfall, a secret spot cherished by locals and rarely visited by tourists.

The ultra-long flight from Shanghai to Buenos Aires, Argentina, operated by China Eastern Airlines with a stopover in Auckland, has finally launched. Has anyone already flown it? How was the experience? This route will make more travelers' Antarctic dreams come true! Speaking of Antarctica, besides the Argentina and Brazil itinerary I mentioned last time, many friends have asked Summer: "What about combining Argentina 🇦🇷 and Chile 🇨🇱 together?" Argentina + Antarctica + Chile 28-day itinerary to copy directly: Day 1: Arrive in Buenos Aires Day 2: Buenos Aires city tour, fly to Puerto Iguazu at night Day 3: Full-day tour of Iguazu Falls on the Argentine side Day 4: Fly from Puerto Iguazu back to Buenos Aires, then connect to Ushuaia Day 5: Visit the world's end post office in Ushuaia during the day, prepare to board the ship in the afternoon Days 6-13: Explore the Antarctic continent Day 14: Return to Ushuaia, fly to El Calafate Day 15: Full-day tour of the Perito Moreno Glacier I mentioned before that after Antarctica, the Perito Moreno Glacier is optional because you might experience aesthetic fatigue. But some friends said, since I’ve come all this way flying tens of thousands of kilometers to Argentina, I want to spend a day at Perito Moreno Glacier! So here’s a day reserved for it! Day 16: Cross the border from El Calafate to Puerto Natales When Summer was helping friends plan the trip, someone asked: "Is one day really needed just for crossing the border?" The drive from El Calafate to Puerto Natales takes 5-6 hours, plus customs time, so it basically takes a whole day! Day 17: Depart from Puerto Natales, full-day bus tour in Torres del Paine Day 18: Full-day hike to the Torres del Paine towers Day 19: Fly from Puerto Natales to Santiago Day 20: Fly from Santiago to Easter Island Day 21: Full-day tour of the eastern coast of Easter Island 🗿 Day 22: Full-day tour of the southern and western coasts of Easter Island 🗿 Day 23: Return from Easter Island to Santiago Day 24: Day trip to the graffiti town Valparaiso from Santiago Day 25: Fly from Santiago to Calama, then drive to Atacama Day 26: El Tatio Geysers + sunset at Moon Valley 🌙 Day 27: Altiplano lagoons + Red Stone full-day tour Day 28: Return from Atacama to Santiago, or head north to the Uyuni Salt Flats, the "Sky Mirror" Most travelers who want to combine Antarctica with Argentina and Chile will definitely visit Torres del Paine; After Torres del Paine, everyone ends up in Santiago, making trips to Easter Island and Atacama super easy! For more South America + Antarctica itinerary planning and assistance, DM 📩 Summer. I’m Summer, an outdoor-loving backpacker. Follow me, and let’s chat about South America and travel. If you’re looking for travel buddies or the latest travel info for Central America, South America, and Antarctica, feel free to join the group.

Thanksgiving finally unlocked a new country, arriving at Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia, Chile🏞️ 🧑‍✈️New York✈️Santiago✈️Puerto Natales The whole trip takes 12.5 hours Complaining a bit about LATAM’s strike forcing us to reschedule… South American airlines operated normally ☁️The weather inside Torres del Paine is really unpredictable. During the three days we were there, we experienced everything from sleet to an 8-level gale to warm weather perfect for short sleeves. If you go in November, bring plenty of clothes. 🚗 We chose to rent a car in Puerto Natales for self-driving and hiking for a day. Renting a car in Puerto Natales is quite reliable, with almost no deposit required, but the roads are really bad… Plus, there’s no signal inside the park, so for self-driving, be sure to do these three things: 1️⃣ Download offline maps on Google in advance 2️⃣ Manage your fuel carefully; there’s no refueling inside the park. The nearest place is at the Rio Serrano Hotel at the park entrance, which supplies a limited amount before 6 PM 3️⃣ Learn how to change a tire beforehand and check your tires before setting off. We had a flat tire on the first day due to the poor road conditions P1 The Rio Serrano Hotel is quite recommended; it’s one of the better value options inside the park. The restaurant food and wine are excellent, and they even offer free roasted whole lamb every day🐑

Itinerary planned three months in advance Booked campsites, hotels, flights, buses, tours... dozens of segments in total Training physical fitness, purchasing equipment... A trip well worth it! Itinerary: Day 0 Fly to Chile Day 1 Arrive in Chile, fly to Puerto Natales, stay in town to prepare Day 2 Take a bus to Lago Grey Hotel, take the Navigation Cruise to Grey Camp, hike 5 hours to PG Camp for accommodation Day 3 Hike the British Valley, stay at French Valley Camp Day 4 Hike to Chileno Camp Day 5 Wake up early to watch the sunrise at the Three Towers, descend to the entrance to take the shuttle, then take the Bussur bus to Natales, then transfer to Punta Arenas Day 6 Join the penguin tour, fly back to Santiago in the afternoon Day 7 Fly to Easter Island in the morning, rent a car and explore on your own in the afternoon Day 8 Full-day tour of Easter Island Day 9 Easter Island sunrise tour, half-day tour, fly back to Santiago in the afternoon Day 10 Free day in Santiago, visit San Cristobal Hill and Plaza de Armas, eat king crab, fly back at night Day 11 Arrive in the Bay Area

📍Address: General Holley 2343, Providencia 💥Unbelievable! You can actually eat such authentic rice noodles in Chile!! The soup base flavors are so many it’s hard to choose—sour and spicy, tomato, golden broth, kimchi… each one is so rich and flavorful, one bite instantly transports you back to China~ 🍜 Tons of condiments! Maximum happiness! The snacks are also super abundant: brown sugar glutinous rice cakes, appetizing small radishes, fried crispy pork… paired with a cup of handmade milk tea, perfectly cures the Chinese stomach~ 💌 Sisters in Chile, hurry up!! Remember to go early, it’s super crowded during meal times~

After finally fulfilling our wish to visit Argentina's Perito Moreno Glacier Park, we returned to the town of El Calafate in the afternoon to continue our journey to Antarctica. In the evening, we took a 6-hour bus ride to Puerto Natales, Chile, heading to the world-famous Torres del Paine National Park 🇨🇱 Torres del Paine National Park is known as the "Eighth Wonder of the World" and is also one of National Geographic's "50 Places to See Before You Die." Blue peaks, emerald lakes, snow-capped glaciers and meadows, forests, waterfalls, and streams create breathtaking and soul-stirring scenery. Here, you can feel a stunning solitude that calms restlessness and clears the mind. Personally, I think this place can be compared to the United States' Yellowstone National Park or Canada's Banff National Park. Although their landscapes differ and their sizes vary greatly, all leave visitors awestruck, marveling at nature's craftsmanship. Torres del Paine is also a paradise for hiking enthusiasts, with the "W Circuit" and "O Circuit" often talked about fondly by adventurers. We had originally signed up for a 23-kilometer one-day short hike, but due to bad weather in El Calafate, Argentina, we had to switch to self-driving. A one-day self-drive itinerary was just right, and we were able to see most of the sights. Fortunately, we had an all-around capable driver sister who drove for seven to eight hours that day, making it very relaxing for us. We enjoyed watching the scenery from the car and stopping to take photos, which was quite pleasant 😌 We kept hearing that the severe weather a couple of days earlier had tragically caused several hikers to lose their lives, leading the park to suspend long-distance hiking trails. Thinking about it now gives me chills. Although I regret not hiking, it reminds me how small and fragile we are in the face of nature, and how we must respect and adapt to it. The park’s most famous three granite peaks, the "Torres" (Towers), soar like spires into the sky. Some people endure hardships to hike and see them up close, while others may unexpectedly encounter them around a corner. Different paths offer different views, but no matter how you see the Torres, the shock and emotion of their majestic presence are equally real and precious.

#skitrip Chile’s Hidden Gem Ski Resort | 🇨🇱 Ski Portillo The mountains are calling, and I must go! 🏔️ After dreaming about shredding these epic slopes for ages, I finally made it happen—and trust me, it was SO worth it! If you crave a quick ski adventure, guess what? Day trips are totally doable here! We kicked things off early, leaving the city at 6am, and arrived at Portillo Ski Resort in just 3 hours. Heads up: There are tons of big trucks queued for customs at the base, so hit the road early to dodge heavy traffic. Lift tickets are priced similarly to Valle Nevado (around 60,000 Chilean pesos), and gear rental goes for about 55,000 pesos. Portillo isn’t the biggest ski place, so you can explore all the runs in half a day—but OMG, the scenery is next-level! Riding the lift gives you insane views, winding above wild mountain roads and looking out over Inca Lake (Laguna del Inca), which just chills in the center of the resort. The cliffside trails meet the seriously majestic Andes mountains for an unreal vibe. It’s honestly SO beautiful and SO worth it! 🤩❄️🏂 Basic Info: Ski Portillo Address: Ruta 60 CH, km 102, Los Andes, Valparaíso, Chile Opening Hours: 8am–5pm (seasonal—check updates on trip.com!) Tip: Book your tickets and rentals ahead via trip.com to lock in the best deals and keep things chill! Ready for your own wild snow adventure? Put Portillo on your bucket list and thank me later!

This trip was such a wonderful surprise! You get to see the desert, Martian landscapes, salt flats, geysers, and starry skies all in one go✨ We stayed in the town of San Pedro for three days and booked five classic tours (in Spanish + English), all with the same company called Layana Travel. Before each tour, the guide creates a WhatsApp group to coordinate details and hotel pickups. Usually, the return drop-off is on the main street. 💡 For this company, we paid 50% upfront and the rest before the first tour. No discounts for card or online payments, but paying in cash (Chilean pesos) or local card transfers gets you a 10% discount. Since the amount was large, we still used a card💳 There are many travel agencies in town, and prices are pretty similar. You can compare yourself (our itinerary, times, and prices are in the last photo). ⚠️ Don’t exchange money at the airport! The airport rate is only 760, while in town it’s about 960. I exchanged at La Llamita (based on other bloggers’ tips), highly recommended. 🗓 Itinerary Day 1 ✈️ Santiago → Atacama early flight 🚌 Bus from Calama Airport → San Pedro (about 1.5h), we booked Transvip directly at the airport, round trip 24,700 pesos/person 🌙 Afternoon visit to Moon Valley Valle de la Luna (3:30 PM - 8:00 PM) (snacks and pisco sour🍸 included). When the sunset hits the rocks, it really feels like you’re on the moon. 🔭 Evening stargazing at Astronomico (9:00 PM - 11:30 PM). Haven’t seen so many stars in a long time, they even helped take star photos—super worth it! ⸻ Day 2 ⛰ Red Stone Valley + Altiplanic Lagoons + Flamingos🦩 PIEDRAS ROJAS (breakfast and lunch included) (6:00 AM - 4:00 PM) The red rocks paired with blue lakes look dreamlike and unreal. The breakfast and lunch are simple but the atmosphere is great🥰 ⸻ Day 3 🌋 Geysers del Tatio (breakfast included) (5:00 AM - 11:30 AM) It’s freezing early morning🥶 Make sure to bring a down jacket! The eruptions before sunrise are truly spectacular! 🏊‍♀️ Salt Lake Laguna Cejar (2:00 PM - 6:30 PM) (snacks and cocktails included), you can float in the water ⸻ Day 4 Morning transfer from town to airport, fly back to Santiago✈️ ⸻ ❗️Atacama has big temperature differences between day and night, so bring clothes for all seasons and a thick jacket! The UV rays are strong, so be sure to apply sunscreen before going out! 🏨 Accommodation is recommended near the main street for convenience. I’ll write a separate post about hotel recommendations~ If you have more time, stay a few extra days—the whole town is super chill.

Restaurant review in Santiago, Chile! This is an Italian restaurant I've been to many times, not because the food is delicious, but because the ambiance is absolutely gorgeous! Casa Dagostino is located at the foot of Santa Maria del Santo Niño, a great choice for afternoon tea on weekends. Address📍 Pedro de Valdivia Norte 0653 Providencia Food: 🌟🌟🌟 Ambience: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Handsome guys and beautiful ladies coming for the food, don't have too high expectations.

Santiago 1-Day Essential Guide｜Check in the History and Panorama of the Heart of Chile 🌟 Itinerary Route (No Backtracking) Plaza de Armas → City Hall Exterior (Former Prison) → Post Office (Former Presidential Palace) → National Museum of Fine Arts → Presidential Palace Exterior → San Cristóbal Hill 📍 Key Highlights + Practical Information • Plaza de Armas: The city center core, free admission, check in the "STGO" letter sculpture + Santiago Cathedral, experience colonial architecture and local life • City Hall + Post Office: 5-minute walk, red walls and white windows of the former prison & vintage dome of the former presidential palace, great photo spots, no tickets required • National Museum of Fine Arts: Free admission, focus on Spanish art collections, great atmosphere for photos by the floor-to-ceiling windows, quiet and less crowded • Presidential Palace Exterior: White building with green dome, watch the guards from a distance for photos, nearby cafes for a break • San Cristóbal Hill: Round-trip cable car CPL$2000 (weekdays) / 2600 (weekends), operating hours 10:00-19:45 (opens at 13:30 on Mondays), climb to the top for a panoramic city view + check in the 14-meter Virgin Mary statue, beautiful sunset views in the evening 🚗 Transportation Tips City center attractions are walkable; for San Cristóbal Hill, it is recommended to take a taxi or bus to the cable car station to avoid detours; Uber is convenient and cost-effective throughout the trip