Chile in pictures

Covering 4,300km of South America’s western coast, Chile holds within its skinny borders a huge variety of climates and landscapes. It’s the awe-inspiring scenery that provides the greatest appeal: from wildlife-filled countryside, scorched volcano-dotted desert, fertile lake-land to a Patagonian wilderness strafed by enormous glaciers, this is a country of fantastic diversity.

Moon Valley, Atacama Desert

A trip to the Moon Valley offers surreal landscapes of wind-eroded rocks where visitors are treated to a captivating spectacle: landscapes are lit up in different shades of pink, crimson and mandarin by the setting sun. We recommend climbing to the tallest dune to see the valley at the height of its magic.

Lake District

The glimmering Lake District is a picturesque landscape of sapphire lakes framed by imposing volcanoes and snow-capped mountains. Divided into north and south, the southern Lake District includes the traditional island of Chiloé whose simple way of life has been protected for centuries by its remote location.

Easter Island

Isolated and mysterious, Easter Island captivates all those who learn about its history and heritage. The most striking of the island’s features are the 900 moai statues which dot the landscape in a seemingly haphazard manner. One of the most iconic shots of Easter Island is taken at Ahu Tongariki, the largest stone platform on the southeast coast with 15 moai standing tall and looking inland.

Elqui Valley

Set in the heart of the mountains, the Elqui Valley is a gorgeous oasis of orchards and vineyards. The contrast between this lush valley floor and the immense rock formation is overwhelming. The star gazing experience is equally overwhelming: the region’s clear skies and dry atmosphere help create a magical display of southern constellations and milky galaxies. It is one of the astronomical centres of the world with 5 observatories in La Serena, two built especially to receive visitors.

Patagonia

A world of variety and contrast can be found in Chile’s most popular destination. The jewel in the crown and most recognised image of the region is Torres del Paine: three fingers of jagged rock jutting out from a landscape of creaking glaciers, turquoise lakes and thick forest.

Santiago

For many visitors flying into Chile, the capital city will be the first sighting of the country - and it is an impressive one. Surrounded by mountains, the peaks over 5,000m create a dramatic contrast with the modern skyscrapers.

Browse our holidays to Chile.

Last updated: 16 Jun 201 7

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