Chile: From Pumas to Peaks, Desert to Island
Chile stretches like a spine down the edge of South America, from the lunar landscapes of the Atacama Desert to the glacier-carved wilds of Patagonia. It’s a country of extremes, home to the world’s driest desert, towering volcanoes, rich wine valleys, remote islands, and some of the most dramatic trekking on the continent.
This long, slender country offers an extraordinary diversity of experiences. Whether you’re stargazing in the Atacama, hiking past ice fields in Torres del Paine, sipping Carménère in the Central Valley, or tracing ancient stories on Easter Island. Chile is wild, sophisticated, and utterly captivating.
Highlights of Your Chilean Journey
Patagonia: Explore Torres del Paine National Park, where pumas roam beneath jagged granite spires, and trails wind through pampas, glacial lakes, and lenga forests. Lodge-to-lodge treks, boat rides past blue icebergs, or simply relaxing in luxury eco-retreats there’s nowhere else quite like it.
Atacama Desert: A surreal landscape of salt flats, geysers, and wind-sculpted canyons. Ride horses across the altiplano, soak in thermal springs, or stay in stylish adobe lodges near San Pedro. The clear skies here are among the best in the world for stargazing.
Lake District: South of Santiago, this lush region blends emerald lakes, snow-capped volcanoes, and traditional Mapuche culture. It’s perfect for gentle hikes, kayaking, and slow travel. The scenery is serene and the pace relaxed.
Santiago: Chile’s capital has come into its own with world-class restaurants, sleek museums, and leafy neighbourhoods. It’s also the gateway to the Andes and wine valleys making it a perfect stop that combines well with almost any trip.
Easter Island: Rapa Nui is one of the world’s most remote inhabited islands, famous for its moai statues and Polynesian culture. Hike volcano rims, visit ancient ceremonial sites, and feel the energy of this storied place.
Off the Beaten Track
While Torres del Paine and the Atacama are firm favourites, we’ve found some lesser-known gems. Head further south to Aysén for even wilder Patagonia, where few others go. Or explore Chiloé, a misty island of palafito houses, fishing villages, and coastal traditions.
We also love to use small commercial flights and insider connections to link regions effortlessly, flying between the desert, lake region and the far south without retracing steps.
Cuisine & Culture
From fresh ceviche on the coast to hearty Patagonian lamb stews, Chile’s food scene is full of surprises. Pair it with bold red wines from the Maipo or Colchagua valleys or try a pisco sour at sunset. You’ll also find a deep Indigenous and European cultural mix with vibrant festivals, artisan crafts, and real warmth in the welcome.
Best Time to Visit
October to April (Spring/Summer) – Ideal for Patagonia and the Lake District, with longer days and clearer skies.
March to May (Autumn) – Wine regions are at their best, with harvest in full swing.
Year-round – Atacama and Santiago are great almost any time, and Easter Island has a mild climate
Our Top Tips
Don’t underestimate the distances – we often suggest short flights or helicopters to keep the journey seamless and inspiring.
Bring layers – you can go from desert sun to mountain chill in a single day.
Our favourite lodges are often in the middle of nowhere, chosen for both their location and the depth of guiding they offer.
Let us help plan a slow, meaningful journey. From walking with a private puma tracker to sharing a meal with a Mapuche family, Chile offers memories that last.
Regional Highlight: Ecuador & The Galápagos
For those seeking to extend their South American adventure, Ecuador offers a captivating contrast to Chile. Wander through the colonial streets of Quito, explore artisan markets in the highlands, or hike among volcanoes in the Avenue of the Volcanoes. And of course, the Galápagos Islands are remote, wild, and unlike anywhere else and are just a short flight away. It’s a natural extension for travellers looking to pair culture, nature, and off-grid island life in one seamless journey.