Choose from 124 Fun Things to Do in Chile
ShowingFilter 61-80 of 124 listings.
Nao Victoria Museum (Museo Nao Victoria)
Visitors to the Nao Victoria Museum can travel back in time and experience the real-life thrill of a 16th-century sailing experience. Opened in 2011, this destination is celebrated by locals for promoting national identity and preserving much of what makes this area so unique. Visitors can wander through four real-life replicas of famous ships: the Nao Victoria, James Caird, HMS Beagle and Schooner Ancud—boats that played an important role in the discovery of Magallanes. Guides are included in the cost of admission, which makes for rich storytelling while travelers explore the ships.
Practical Info
The museum is located in Tres Puentes Wetland, about four miles (seven kilometers) from Punta Arenas, on the Strait of Magellan near Route-Y-565. It’s easy to catch a taxi from Punta Arenas, and museum staff members will happily call one for your return trip if necessary.
Address: 7,5 Km North on Y-565, Punta Arenas, Chile
Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
Admission: Adults $6, Children $2
From $ 49
National Library (Biblioteca Nacional)
Built in 1925, Chile’s National Library is home to an extensive collection of rare books and valuable manuscripts that date back to the early 1800s. Its luxe interior spans two floors, which boast marble staircases and ornate sculptures of some of the country’s most famed artists. The impressive French neoclassical building is also home to the nation’s National Archives.
Travelers who visit the vast open rooms lined with historic texts and open study tables say the iconic building in the center of Santiago offers a rare opportunity to travel back in time. And the silent stacks prove a stark contrast to the electricity of the city streets that lie right outside its doors.
Practical Info
The library is located on Avenida Libertador Bernardo O’Higgins 651. It is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. and Saturday from 9:15 a.m. until 2 p.m. It is closed on Sundays. It is accessible via public transportation by taking the metro to the Santa Lucia station.
Address: Avenida Libertador Bernardo O'Higgins 651, Santiago, Chile
From $ 50
Mercado Central (Central Market)
The interior, wrought-iron construction of the Mercado Central looks like it could contain a greenhouse, but with the masonry outside, this building houses local eateries, a few fruit and vegetable stands, the occasional roaming musician, and just a sampling of souvenir stands, though in total there are more than 200 locales. The building dates back to 1872, and is consistently named as a must-see in Santiago. In fact, in 2012, National Geographic named it as the 5th best market in the world.
Due to its central location, and the fact that it is often visited by tourists, it has also become a hub for pickup and drop off for a number of different tour services.
Inside the market, there are several restaurants serving local specialties, which mainly revolve around fish. There is the larger-than-life centolla or king crab, which the waiter cracks for you as you wait, or flavorful (raw) sea urchins served with plenty of onion, cilantro, lemon juice and olive oil. Or if you want something hearty, try anything called a budín or chupe, which will be thick, creamy soups and casseroles served in the typical greda (terra cotta) dish. If you’re feeling more austere, try grilled fish with a salad, but don’t pass up on what is probably Chile’s favorite appetizer, machas a la parmesana, which are razor clams served au gratin.
Practical Info
Most activity in the Mercado Central is focused around lunch, from about noon and on. But if you want a traditional Chilean experience, come here in the wee hours of the morning (best done in a group and on weekends) for a steamy paila marina (brothy fish and seafood soup), when people are just coming out of clubs, and vendors are just starting their long work days.
Address: Mercado Central de Santiago, Santiago, Santiago Metropolitan Region, Chile
From $ 22
Matetic Vineyard
Matetic Vineyard is located in the San Antonio Valley, a Chilean wine region about 120 kilometers west of the capital Santiago. With its abundant sunshine, cool breezes from the Pacific Ocean and irrigation by fresh water from the Andes, the region offers the perfect climate for growing wine. Additionally, high temperature fluctuations between day and night force the roots of the vines to penetrate deeply into the soil to provide themselves with nutrients, a fact that gives the grapes grown in the valley a strong and distinctive flavor. Matetic’s wines are known for their elegance as well as the intensity of the pure fruit and several well-known vintages are produced here, such as Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Riesling and Pinot Noir.
The winery was founded by the Matetic family in 1999 and due to the high quality standards and the specialization in biodynamic farming, Matetic Vineyard managed to soon become one of the leading wineries in Chile. There is no use of chemical pesticides and additionally, the fertilizer comes from the waste of the farm’s own animals. Equally balanced and eco-conscious is a visit to Matetic Vineyard. Visitors not only get to experience the wine making process and sample fine wines, but are also encouraged to enjoy the serene countryside and go exploring on horseback or mountain bikes. The vineyard also hosts a hotel called La Casona, a stunning colonial country home, as well as a restaurant specialized in complimenting the wine with a range of typical Chilean dishes.
Practical Info
Matetic Vineyard covers roughly 120 hectares west of the Chilean capital Santiago. The winery is best reached by car. From Santiago, follow route 68 towards Valparaiso and take the Algarrobo exit. From there, follow signs to Lagunillas and San Antonio.
Address: Chile
From $ 111
Museum of Archaeology and History Francisco Fonck
Visitors to the Museum of Archaeology and History Francisco Fonck, or the Fonck Museum for short, are greeted by two original moai from Easter Island. The museum was founded in 1937 and named after German physician and archeologist Dr. Francisco Fonck Foveaux, who was based in Chile.
The archaeological collections displayed on the first floor of the museum cover everything from Rapa Nui cultural relics from Easter Island to archaeological items from the cultures of the Peruvian Andes. Natural history takes center stage on the second floor, including an arthropod collection, entomology area and several exhibits on the ecosystem of Easter Island and the Valparaiso coast.
Practical Info
The Museum of Archaeology and History Francisco Fonck is open seven days per week except on select holidays.
Address: 4 Norte 784, Viña del Mar, Chile
Hours: Sun 10 am-2 pm
Mon-Sat 10 am-6 pm
Admission: Adults: 2500 pesos; Children: 500 pesos
From $ 18
Palacio de Bellas Artes
Constructed in 1910, at the height of Latin America's frilly neoclassical-meets-art nouveau architectural wave, the graceful Palacio de Bellas Artes still strikes an imposing figure amidst modern Santiago's cold skyscrapers. Its ornate stone facade, which would do any cathedral proud, and permanent artistic merit make it the perfect home for the National Museum of Fine Arts.
The permanent collection, displayed in the Palacio's soaring chambers, begins with the Spanish Colonial era and traces Chile's cultural development through the styles of its artistic masters. Temporary exhibitions come from around Chile and the world.
The MAC (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo), Santiago's contemporary art museum, is also here. While it University of Chile-operated institution may lack the gravitas of the neighboring Fine Arts Museum, exhibits can be a lot more fun.
Practical Info
The Palacio de Bellas Artes is located on the northern edge of the historic district, five blocks from the Plaza de Armas, close to the river. This busy neighborhood isn't the easiest to navigate with a car, but there are several metro stops nearby. The L5 green line serves the Bellas Artes stop, right in front of the building.
The Palacio's entry fee is included as part of a Turistik, which gives you a day's access to double-decker buses that circuit past most of Santiago's attractions. Guided Spanish-language tours of the museum can be arranged for groups with one week advanced notice.
Address: Parque Forestal s/n Casilla 3209, Santiago de Chile, Chile
Hours: Open Tuesday - Sunday 10am - 6:50pm
Admission: Ch600
From $ 38
Milodon Cave (Cueva del Milodon)
In 1896, German explorer Eberhard Hermann entered a cave and found strange remains inside, the fur and bones of the extinct Mylodon sloth. Named after the giant ground sloth found within, Milodon Cave (Cueva del Milodon) is the largest of several caves within Cueva del Milodon National Monument. But the sloth wasn’t the only inhabitant of the caves. Remains of other extinct species, including a saber-toothed cat and a dwarf horse, as well as evidence of human habitation from as early as 6,000 BC have been found within the caves.
As visitors enter the monument, they’re greeted by a full-size replica of the mylodon sloth, standing 13 feet (4 meters) tall. The mylodon was said to resemble a giant bear, though the mammal was in fact a very large herbivore that went extinct over 10,000 years ago. A viewing point atop the cathedral-sized cave affords visitors views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers and the Eberhard fjord.
Practical Info
The easiest way to reach Milodon Cave is by taxi from Puerto Natales. Most offer a set rate to the national monument.
Address: Ruta y-290 kilómetro 8, Puerto Natales, Patagonia, Chile, Chile
Hours: High season (Apr-Oct) 8am-7pm, and Low season (May-Sep) 8:30am-6pm
Admission: 4,000 pesos (high season); 2,000 pesos (low season)
From $ 64
Maggiorino Borgatello Salesian Museum
This 1,700-square-foot mecca of Patagonia heritage covers an entire history, culture and tradition in just four floors. Travelers can explore the well-organized galleries created by Salesian missionaries back in the late 1800s and learn about the rich ethnology, archaeology, wildlife and diversity of the region.
Visitors rave about the Cave of the Hands replica, which is displayed in a room dedicated to Southern Patagonia, and many applaud the museum’s honest handling of colonists, too. The Salesians made every effort to preserve artifacts from the Ona, Tehuelche, Alacalufe and Yamana people, while also explaining the impact of European colonists on local traditions and the role of pioneers in helping to create modern day Punta Arenas.
Practical Info
The museum is located on the corner of Bulnes Avenue and Bories Street, next to the Maria Auxiliadora Sanctuary.
Address: Av. Bulnes 336, Punta Arenas, Chile
Hours: Tues-Sun 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 3-6 p.m.
Admission: Adults $4, children under 12 free.
From $ 33
Moon Valley
With its parched desert plains and wind-sculpted topography, it’s easy to see how Moon Valley (Valle de la Luna) earned its name. The sharp sandstone peaks, glittering salt deposits, and crater-like depressions make for some dramatic photographs, and watching the sunset over the valley is an unforgettable experience.
The Basics
Located just outside the town of San Pedro de Atacama, Moon Valley is the main attraction for most visitors to the Atacama Desert. Half-day tours typically set out in the afternoon, leaving time to explore the valley’s natural wonders before climbing to the top of Big Dune to watch the sunset over the lunar landscapes below.
Guided tours that include Valley of the Moon often stop at nearby attractions such as Atacama Salt Lake (Salar de Atacama), Salt Mountain Range (Cordillera de la Sal), and the Tres Marías rock formations, while multi-day tours leave time to explore such farther-flung sights as the Red Stone Desert, Cejar Lagoon, and the El Tatio geyser field.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Moon Valley and the Atacama Desert are must-visits for nature lovers.
- Pack sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water as there’s little shade in the desert, but bring warm clothing for the evening hours too, as temperatures can drop quickly, even in summer.
- Most of the desert roads are unpaved and the terrain uneven, so a 4WD is advisable, and comfortable walking shoes are a must.
- Cell phone service is scarce throughout the desert, and Wi-Fi is only available at a few hotels in San Pedro de Atacama.
How to Get There
Moon Valley lies at the heart of the Atacama Desert in northeastern Chile, around 11 miles (17 kilometers) west of the town of San Pedro de Atacama. There’s no public transport to the valley itself, although regular taxis, shared taxis, and tours run from San Pedro de Atacama. The closest airport is in Calama, from which buses run to San Pedro de Atacama, 60 miles (98 kilometers) away. You can rent cars in town.
When to Get There
The most popular time to explore Moon Valley is during the summer months (December–February), but winter (June–August) visits can be equally rewarding, although temperatures can plummet below freezing at night. Sticking around until sunset is a must, and most tours set out in the afternoon to ensure a sunset view.
Los Flamencos National Reserve
Moon Valley is part of Los Flamencos National Reserve, although the main reserve actually lies around two hours’ drive east of valley. Additional park highlights include a hike around the Tara Salt Flat (Salar de Tara), bird-watching at the Miscanti and Miñiques lagoons, and the tamarugo forest of Toconao. Common wildlife sightings include Chilean, James, and Andean flamingos, as well as vicunas and red foxes.
Address: Ruta B-241, San Pedro de Atacama, Chile
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 26
Parque de Las Esculturas
This peaceful park along the Mapocho River features several different types of sculpture, from representational to geometric and abstract, in natural materials such as stones, and also some of more distinctive pieces, such as a yellow cage-like structure, and a large metal cube made of parallel bars. The sculpture park is easily found by exiting the metro at Pedro de Valdivia and heading north, and you will recognize immediately that you are headed in the right direction as you cross over the Mapocho river on a bridge that is also dotted with sculptures. Alternatively, on your way out of Cerro San Cristobal, take a taxi or walk down to the Pedro de Valdivia side and walk a few peaceful blocks through the tony Pedro de Valdivia Norte neighborhood before entering the park.
The park is a quiet place for a picnic or to sit in the shade, and on clear days, there is a great view of the Andes to the east. A new administration building on the north side of the park can help you out if you have any questions, and just outside the park to the west is one of the city’s new Plazas Activas, a set of human powered, gym-like equipment if you want to get an outdoor workout in.
Practical Info
The park generally closes at dusk, but in January, the Providencia (the neighborhood the park is in) Jazz Festival is held there for a few nights. Didn’t get a ticket? Do what many other neighbors do, and pull up a chair or blanket outside. The acoustics are fine on either side of the fence.
Address: Av. Santa Maria, Santiago 2201, Chile
From $ 38
Ojos del Salar
To understand the meaning of the words Ojos de Salar, you just need to know that a salar is a salt plain or lake and the ojo is its eye. In this case, the eyes of the salt plain are two small, perfectly round, freshwater lakes that open up seemingly in the middle of nowhere, about 20 miles from the town of San Pedro de Atacama. They are accessed from a sandy road, and these two freshwater lakes are commonly visited as part of a larger trip to two other lakes in the area, the Laguna de Cejar and Laguna Tebenquiche.
On still days, the Ojos del Salar act as perfect mirrors that reflect the desert. Tours to the area usually head out in the afternoon and stop here before moving on to other lakes, including Cejar, in which you can take a dip and enjoy the last bit of sunlight with with a cocktail in hand, if you can put down your camera for that long.
Practical Info
Although the lakes are close to San Pedro de Atacama, it makes sense to take a tour, as there are many criss-crossing paths in the area and it is easy to get lost. Winds rise and temperatures drop quickly here, so dress appropriately.
Address: Chile
From $ 39
National History Museum
Between Santiago's Central Post Office and the Municipalidad, the National History Museum (Museum Historico Nacional) is housed in what was once the Palacio de la Real Audiencia, which was designed by Juan Jose de Goycolea y Zanartu and built by the Spanish Empire between 1804 and 1807 to house the Royal Courts of Justice.
Today the grand old rooms are dedicated to showcasing the eclectic remnants of Chile's past — the exhibits are divided into the themes including Mapuche silverwork, colonial furniture and art, textiles, weapons, and photography. And on a visit, you'll see everything from sewing machines to period clothes and furniture.
The ground floor is dedicated to conquest and colony, and upstairs you'll learn more about Chile's struggle for independence through to the industrial revolution and the 1973 military coup. But the only evidence you'll see of Pinochet is a stash of his presidential sashes.
Practical Info
On Plaza de Armas, the National History Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 5:30pm. Entrance costs CH$600 but is free on Sundays. The nearest metro station is Plaza de Armas.
Address: Región Metropolitana, Santiago, Chile
Hours: Tue-Sun 10am-5:30pm
Admission: CH$600, Free on Sundays
From $ 36
Osorno Volcano
Nicknamed the King of the South, snow-capped Osorno Volcano is one of Chile’s most visible landmarks. Towering over Lake Todos Los Santos and Lake Llanquihue, the conical volcano can be seen from as far off as Chiloé. The volcano’s near perfect shape is the result of some 40 craters scattered along its base. The volcano has erupted 11 times during the 18th and 19th centuries, but always in these craters; never at its peak.
Today, a windy road leads visitors to the base of a ski resort, where chairlifts ferry passengers to a point near the volcano’s peak — a worthwhile excursion even for non-skiers simply for the stellar views of the alpine lake below. Experienced climbers can make the full-day trek to the summit of Osorno.
Practical Info
Osorno Volcano is snow-capped year round, so be sure to bring layers to wear at the top.
Address: Puerto Montt, Los Lagos, Chile, Chile
From $ 34
Mapocho Station
Originally constructed between 1905 and 1912, the Mapocho Station was once the heart of Chile's massive, efficient railway system. The beautiful building was all but abandoned after the Valparaiso train shuddered to a stop in 1987, but was restored to its former elegance, complete with a copper roof, in the 1990s.
Today the Mapocho Station is the country's most important cultural center, its spacious interior hosting all sorts of art exhibits, performances, and other cultural activities throughout the year. From highbrow (symphonies, operas) to low (animatronic dinosaurs), there's something for everyone at this iconic Santiago institution.
Practical Info
The Mapocho Station lies at the heart of what was once quite an elegant neighborhood, centered on Iglesia Santo Domingo. Architecture and history buffs will enjoy wandering around, and perhaps visiting Santiago's Central Market. The scene is now a tad scruffy, but the shady park filled with buskers and artisan vendors is a fine place to relax.
While this is a relatively good driving neighborhood, the easiest access is by metro; take the yellow L2 line to the Puente Cal y Canto station. The Spanish-language website has information on upcoming events and exhibitions; click "Centro Cultural" on the home page, then "Cartelera" for an illustrated schedule.
Address: Plaza de la Cultura, Santiago de Chile, Chile
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Fees vary depending on performances and exhibitions
From $ 38
Orongo Village
Perched on the edge of the gigantic Rano Kau crater, the long-abandoned village of Orongo is suspended between two wildly contrasting landscapes. To one side lies the murky crater lake and barren lava fields of an ancient volcano; to the other, the bright blue waters of the Pacific Ocean, dotted with the tiny isles of Motu Nui, Motu Iti and Motu Kau Kau.
Believed to have been used from the late 1600s until the mid 1800s, Orongo was a ceremonial village of the Rapa Nui people, used solely during the annual Tangata Manu, or Birdman Ceremony. Renowned as one of the islanders’ most important events, the ceremony was held in honor of the god Make-Make and included a competition in which villagers paddled out to the neighboring isle of Motu Nui to steal a prized manutara egg and swim back to shore.
Today, visitors can still view a series of petroglyphs honoring the cult of the birdman around the village and also explore the well-preserved ruins of Orongo, home to about 48 low-lying oval stone houses.
Practical Info
Orongo Village is located on the southwestern tip of Easter Island, about five miles (8 km) south of Hanga Roa, and it’s possible to drive or climb the hill to the village. The entrance fee to the Rapa Nui National Park is $60 for all non-Chileans (payable on arrival to the island) and includes entrance to Orongo Village.
Address: Easter Island, Chile
Admission: Rapa Nui Park: $60 for non-Chileans
From $ 63
Museum of Memory and Human Rights
A poignant nod to Chile’s dark past, Santiago’s Museum of Memory and Human Rights serves both as a stark reminder of the atrocities committed during General Augusto Pinochet's dictatorship and a moving memorial to the many that lost their lives.
Inaugurated in 2010, the museum details the harrowing truths behind Pinochet's coup and subsequent rule from 1973 to 1990, and the no-holds-barred accounts of events offers an important insight for those looking to learn more. Chilling stories of human rights abuses, a display of torture devices and video footage of political rallies, speeches and protests, are followed by a candlelight memorial and hundreds of photographs of the victims or ‘disappeared’.
Practical Info
The Museum of Memory and Human Rights is located on Matucana in central Santiago, 3km west of the Plaza de Armas. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm and admission is free.
Address: Avenida Matucana 501, Santiago, Chile
Hours: Tues- Sun: 10am- 6pm
From $ 88
Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedral Metropolitana)
Santiago's Cathedral - or Catedral Metropolitana - is considered one of the finest pieces of religious architecture in South America. This is the Catedral Metropolitana's fourth incarnation (as well as numerous touchups) since a church was first dedicated on this spot in 1561, and must be one of its loveliest.
It was most recently rebuilt in the 1750s, with the help of Italian architect Joaquín Toesca, who designed the baroque-fringed neoclassical facade that set the standard for subsequent structures around the Plaza de Armas.
It was most recently rebuilt in the 1750s, with the help of Italian architect Joaquín Toesca, who designed the baroque-fringed neoclassical facade that set the standard for subsequent structures around the Plaza de Armas.
Yet, as impressive as the stone exterior is, it is the resplendent vault and richly adorned altar, inside, that really inspires. A small museum of religious artifacts adjoins the main church.
Practical Info
The Catedral Metropolitana has dominated the west side of the Plaza de Armas for centuries, and is the official heart of the city, from which all other points around Santiago are measured. Driving in this busy neighborhood isn't recommended, but the metro's L5 green line drops you at Plaza de Armas, in front of the main facade of Santiago's Cathedral.
While the interior is worth a look any time, consider visiting for one of the cathedral's organ concerts, played on an ornate instrument the size of some homes. These are held several times a month; check the paper, or ask at the church, to find out about upcoming events.
Address: Plaza de Armas, Santiago de Chile, Chile
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 22
Parque Arauco
Santiago’s Parque Arauco mall is huge. Set on two levels, there are more than 20 restaurants, and you’ll see global brands like Starbucks, Nine West, and the Gap dotted along its two floors. There’s also a luxury stores district where you can shop at the likes of Louis Vuitton, Dolce & Gabbana, Burberry, Mont Blanc, and Emporio Armani, and there’s an entertainment zone that includes a cinema with 3D, 4D, and premium screens, an ice-rink, a bowling alley, and Mori Cultural Center and Theater.
Parque Arauco is also home to an outdoor boulevard with restaurants and stores. And after 9pm in the evening, live music performances often take place al fresco, too. Other notable spots include Chilean department store giants like Falabella, Ripley, and Almacenes Paris, and Tottus supermarket.
Practical Info
To reach Santiago’s Parque Arauco by public transport, take the subway to Escuela Militar (line 1), then transfer to bus 11 or 20 — they stop at the mall. Foreign visitors can pick up cards with exclusive discounts and benefits at over 100 of the mall’s stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Address: Parque Arauco 5501-5545, Maipú, Región Metropolitana, Chile 5601, Chile
Hours: Retail Stores: Mon-Sat 10am-9pm, Sundays & Holidays 11am-9pm
From $ 38
Nordenskjold Lake
In the early 20th century, Swedish explorer Otto Nordenskjold discovered a blue alpine lake that would later be named after him. Located within Torres del Paine National Park, the lake is famous for its beautifully colored waters, as well as its outfall, the Salto Grande waterfall.
While the national park is famous for its multi-day hiking circuits, visitors can make a shorter, easier day hike to Mirador Nordenskjold, an overlook offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The trail passes through fields of wildflowers in the spring, and it also brings hikers up close to the Salto Grande waterfall.
Practical Info
Find the trailhead to Mirador Nordenskjold near the catamaran marina in Pudeto.
Address: Puerto Natales, Magallanes, Chile, Chile
From $ 86
Maipo Valley
Often called the Bordeaux of South America, Maipo Valley is home to a number of Chile’s most beloved wine producers. In the 1800s, wealthy travelers headed off to France and returned with international vines that they planted in Chile’s mineral rich soil. Today, these Maipo estates are among the nation’s top vineyards and an ideal place for travelers looking to sample the nation’s favorite reds and whites.
Wines with acidic sweetness and true balance can be found in Alto Maipo, near the eastern edge of the Andes. The area, which is home to Pirque and Puento Alto, is among Maipo Valley’s top destinations for fruit-forward vintages. Crisp whites and bold Cabernet Sauvignons come from Maipo Bajo, near the town of Talagante. Wine-loving travelers will also find Merlot, Chardonnay and Carmenere varieties on a tour through what is, without a doubt, one of Chile’s most iconic wine regions.
Practical Info
Maipo Valley is located south of Santiago at the northern tip of the Central Valley. It’s separated from Argentina’s famous Mendoza region by the picturesque Andes Mountains.
Address: Santiago, Chile
From $ 42