Santiago is a large city with a laid-back atmosphere. It’s surrounded by the gorgeous Andes Mountains and is your gateway to wine regions, Patagonia and even Easter Island.

But don’t just use Santiago as a starting point, there are many reasons to stick around and explore the city for a while.

The heart of the city is a historic gem, featuring old colonial buildings in neoclassical styles, as well as world-class museums, stunning urban parks, and bustling markets.

To find out the best of the best things to do in Santiago, we interviewed Emily from Don’t Call Me Gringa who first came to Santiago in 2005 as a study abroad student, and decided not to leave!

Emily shares with us her insider tips on what to do in Santiago, including the best places to see, eat, stay, drink, and explore.

Why visit Santiago?

Santiago’s has got a lot of attention as a city that’s really coming into its own. It’s got great museums and cultural events, delicious food, local crafts and of course, plenty of wine.

Chile is a gorgeous country with a huge variety of landscapes, and Santiago is the jumping off point to all that, whether you’re thinking deserts, glaciers, wine regions, or even Easter Island.

Santiago is not just a stopping point to explore other parts of Chile, it also has a vibrant atmosphere and welcoming locals. Not to mention a great gastronomy scene for those foodies who love to try new things.

With a high police presence and a low crime rate, it’s a safe South American city that tourists can feel comfortable in.

If you’re looking for a city with a laid-back atmosphere and plenty of things to do, then Santiago is for you.

Things to Do in Santiago

Now you know a little bit about what makes Santiago a great place to visit, it’s time to introduce you to the top attractions in the city!

1. Take the Funicular up to San Cristobal Hill

On a clear day, take the funicular up San Cristóbal hill to enjoy the views of the city. Taking the funicular up to Cerro San Cristobal in Santiago, Chile is an amazing experience.

Located on a hill overlooking the city and accessed from Metropolitan Park, the views are absolutely stunning.

On the hill rests one of the most iconic religious landmarks in Santiago—the statue of the Virgin Mary, which dates back to 1908.

Visitors can also take in breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains in the distance. The hill also contains several gardens and parks with lush vegetation and wildlife, along with cultural monuments such as colonial-style buildings, statues of historic figures from Chile’s past, and even a replica of Michelangelo’s David!

But it’s more than just a site for views, it also has a rich history, since it used to be an indigenous ceremonial site and was later occupied by Spanish colonial forces during their occupation of South America.

You can also ride a cable car from Metropolitan Park to San Cristobel too. But don’t just skip the park, take some time to explore the largest urban park in Latin America!

It also has a botanical gardens, or if you’re looking for fun things to do in Santiago with kids, take them to the zoo.

2. Learn About Human Rights Politics at Museum of Memory and Human Rights

If you’re interested in politics, the human rights museum Museo de la Memoria, or Museum of Memory and Human Rights, is a must-see for any history aficionado.

The museum celebrates human rights and exposes the atrocities of past wrongs committed by the Pinochet dictatorship.

Visitors can explore the permanent exhibits, which span decades of Chile’s turbulent past. By taking part in interactive installations and multimedia displays, visitors gain an intimate understanding of how human rights were violated during this period in history.

There are also temporary exhibitions throughout the year that provide further insight into the country’s tumultuous times. For those who are interested in the culture and history of Chile, the Museum of Memory and Human Rights is an ideal spot to learn about its past, present, and future.

3. Explore the Neighborhoods of Santiago

I often say one of the best ways to get to know a city is to wander around on foot. There are some neighborhoods in Santiago that are best explored on your own two feet.

The most notable area to explore is Plaza de Armas, the old city center in Santiago’s downtown. Here you will find some of the most notable pieces of neoclassical architecture, including the Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral, the Central Post Office Building, and Palacio de la Real Audiencia de Santiago (the government building).

The Bellas Arte neighborhood is full of bars and cafés that make for perfect people watching. Nearby Barrio Bellavista has some great restaurants and good nightlife.

To get off the beaten path a bit, head to Barrio Yungay, stopping at restaurant Boulevard Lavaud to pick up a map for a self-guided walking tour of the picturesque neighborhood.

You can also find free walking tours if you prefer to be taken around by a knowledgeable guide.

4. Try Chilean Food

I wouldn’t have believed it back in 2005, but it’s true that today Santiago has some great food.

Thanks to an influx of Peruvian immigrants, pretty much any Peruvian restaurant here is authentic and delicious.

If you’re ready for something different, head to the Patronato neighborhood for cuisine from kebabs to Korean served up by recent immigrants.

Chilean food is hearty, and my favorite place for a nice meal is Ana María in the República neighborhood.

Just as much a staple of the Chilean diet and easier on the budget, Chilean sandwiches from Dominó are giant, greasy and covered in avocado.

And of course, being near the coast, Santiago is well known for its excellent seafood.

5. Check out the Nightlife in Bellavista

Bellavista is the place to go for things to do in Santiago at night. It has lots of bars and discos – remember, don’t call it a nightclub unless you’re looking for a strip joint!

There are also some good clubs and bars around the street Orrego Luco in Providencia.

Along the street Tobalaba, just south of the metro station of the same name, you’ll find a variety of bars. Moloko is a hip bar with a great cocktail list, but I still say Ecléctico has the best mango sour in Santiago.

6. Check Out the Markets in Santiago

I love markets, so I send everyone to Mercado Central (Central Market), the fish market, and La Vega, the fruit and vegetable market.

You will find tourists, but these are also working markets where santiaguinos do their shopping.

Mercado Central is a great lunch stop, but make sure to eat around the edges rather than in the center – same food, lower prices!

For crafts, don’t miss Pueblito Los Dominicos. The setting is peaceful, the artists themselves are there to talk to you, and while the prices can be a bit higher, quality is ensured.

7. Attend Fiestas Patrias

Chile’s major holiday is called Fiestas Patrias or el dieciocho, the independence day-related national holiday surrounding September 18th.

It’s a week-long party featuring outdoor festivals called fondas where you’ll find food, drink, entertainment and games.

All that plus the start of spring means everyone in the country’s in a great mood and ready to celebrate!

8. Try Pisco Sours

Make sure you try plenty of pisco sours, which are similar to margaritas but with pisco, a grape-based brandy, instead of tequila.

Pisco is only made in the 4th region of Chile and part of Peru, and for both countries the question of who it really belongs to is a matter of national pride and argument. Chilean or Peruvian, pisco sours are delicious!

9. Take a Day Trip to The Mountain Villages

If you’re going to take a day trip from Santiago, it’s got to be wine tasting at one of the quaint villages in the Andes. Whether in the Colchagua Valley to the south or Casablanca Valley on the way to the coast.

For souvenir shopping, take a day trip to Pueblito Los Dominicos, an artisan village in the foothills of the Andes.

Sometimes the hustle and bustle of the city can be a bit overwhelming, so these quiet mountain villages offer a beautoful rural escape. Plus, it’s always fascinating to see how people live in rural Chile.

10. Take a Day Trip to Valparaiso

Another great day trip would be to one of the most vibrant cities in Chile, Valparaíso. It’s known for its colorful buildings and coastal beaches. It’s a great place to kick back and enjoy the ocean breeze and great colors.

It’s also famous for its street art, which is a popular hobby among young people in the city. If you’re someone looking for a hipster vibe and a young crowd, then take a trip to Valpo.

It’s also a lot less touristy than other cities in Chile, so you will be met with a more local vibe.

11. Go Wine Tasting in Concha y Toro

Chilean wine is world famous, so why not make sure to learn about its history, production methods, and secrets behind its taste?

Nestled in the picturesque area of Pirque, you’ll find the Viña Concha y Toro, which is one of the most important vineyards in the world.

It produces some of the countries most exquisite and famous wines.

On a guided tour of the vineyard, you’ll be taken to the summer gardens that once belonged to the owner’s old summer house, which is home to more than 25 different grape varieties.

You will learn about the growing methods of the grapes and wander around the old wineries, including the “Casillero del Diablo” the most famous wine producer in Chile and around the world.

And of course, you will get to taste a few wines on this tour, too.

12. Check out Palacio de la Moneda (La Moneda Palace)

Visiting the Palacio de la Moneda is one of the top things to do in Chile for those looking to explore the cultural heritage of this country.

The palace itself is grand and architecturally impressive, boasting 250 years of history. It features intricate stonework and archways and contains a wealth of artworks, sculptures and artifacts that tell the story of Chile’s past.

Within the palace there are also several museums which showcase priceless artifacts from across the world, including ancient Greek coins, paintings by famous Chilean artists and medieval armour.

Visitors can also explore the gardens surrounding the palace which are the perfect place to relax and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

13. Get Cultured at National Museum of Fine Arts

The National Museum of Fine Arts in Santiago is a must-see for art lovers. It houses an impressive collection of Chilean and international artwork, ranging from the 16th century to modern day.

Visitors can wander through the galleries and take in pieces by Jean Lucrat, Morisot, and more.

There is also a large selection of sculptures, photographs and prints, as well as interactive programs that explore the works of art in detail.

It was founded in 1880 and has since become one of Latin America’s most important cultural centers – it is easy to see why the National Museum of Fine Arts should be on your list when visiting Santiago.

14. Check out the Views from Sky Costanera

The Sky Costanera is a remarkable landmark in Santiago that shows how the city is moving with modern times.

It was designed by renowned architects Alejandro Aravena and Gustavo Grobocopatel and was built to be a symbol of progress for Santiago’s citizens.

Standing at 300 meters tall, it’s one of the tallest skyscrapers in Latin America and offers stunning 360 degree views of the Andes Mountains and the city skyline.

Aside from admiring its impressive architecture, you can also take an elevator up to its observation desk or enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants located within the building.

15. Explore the National Museum of Natural History

The National Museum of Natural History is great place to learn about the country’s unique and diverse ecosystems.

You can explore the numerous exhibits featuring various species of flora and fauna from the region, as well as learn about the history of Chile’s geography through interactive displays and artifacts.

The museum also houses a permanent collection of fossils from prehistoric animals, providing insight into the evolution of life on earth.

16. Go Skiing at Santiago’s Ski Resorts

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Santiago, then you should consider checking out some of the nearby ski slopes, which offer top-class skiing all year round.

Just outside the city is the Valle Nevado ski resort, which is only a 1.5 hour drive away from downtown.

This resort has the highest slopes in Chile and boasts the best snow in South America, with trails of various difficulties, making it perfect for any level of skiier. And the best part is, you can ski any season.

If you’re looking for somewhere a little closer to the city for skiing, Portillo is a ski slope designed for one-day skiiers. It has ski rentals, lift passes and ski schools, but doesn’t have as many trails as Valle Nevado.

17. Hike up Cerro Santa Lucia Hill

Cerro Santa Lucía is the perfect spot for a hike. First and foremost, the hill offers a breathtaking view of the city’s skyline, and it was once used as a lookout by Spanish conquistadors but has now been converted into a beautiful public park with winding staircases and numerous paths for exploration.

There are many fascinating historical relics scattered around the hill, such as an old military fortifications from the 1800s, ancient cannons from the War of Chilean Independence, and statues of Chilean heroes.

The top of Cerro Santa Lucia Hill also contains an important monument of a stone plaque with the paragraph that Pedro de Valdivia, the founding father of Santiago, send to Charles V to tell him of their new conquered land.

18. Learn About Poet Pablo Neruda at La Chascona Museum

The La Chascona Museum is located in the Barrio Bellavista neighborhood and was the former home of Nobel Prize-winning poet and politician Pablo Neruda. It is used to house his personal collections of art and artifacts that date back to the early 20th century.

Here you can explore a wide variety of cultural items such as books, photographs, ceramics, furniture, jewelry and much more.

In addition to its incredible displays of historical artifacts and artworks, visitors can also learn about Neruda’s life story and his political impact on Latin America.

It also has a cozy cafe where guests can enjoy delicious food before or after exploring the museum.

Getting To & Around Santiago

Public transportation in Santiago is efficient and modern. The metro is easy for tourists to use, and the bus system which gets you everywhere isn’t too hard to figure out.

If you decide to get a taxi, be sure to make sure the taxi is metered as some drivers like to take this off and charge you whatever.

When it comes to flying to Santiago, TACA is usually the cheapest air option from the US, although LAN/American and Delta offer better schedules. 

If you’re in the northeastern US, check out Air Canada – they have some great deals.

A popular route for people traveling South America is to take the bus from Mendoza, Argentina, which gives you great views as you cross the Andes.

Best Time to Visit Santiago

If you can come in September and catch some of the dieciocho celebrations, do it.

Winter is grey and smoggy, so I wouldn’t suggest coming in June or July, and if you don’t like heat, you want to avoid January and February.

March-May and August-December are great.

Where to Stay in Santiago

When it comes to finding a place to stay in Santiago, it can be a bit overwhelming narrowing down the options.

For budget travellers, my favorite hostel in Santiago is Eco-Hostal Tambo Verde – great location, a social atmosphere, clean and comfy rooms, and it’s eco-friendly.

If you’re looking for more high end places to stay in Santiago, The Hotel Magnolia is a boutique 5* hotel that always seems to please. Plus it’s in a great location in downtown.

For more places to stay in Santiago choose from the largest range of hotels, apartments, and guesthouses with our partner Booking.com. You get free cancellation on most rooms, and in most cases you only pay when you stay.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Santiago

I love Santiago because it’s always evolving! The city I live in now is not the city I came to many years ago, and experiencing the transformation is a lot of fun.

I hope this guide helped you plan your trip to Santiago and gave you some ideas for what to do in the city.

It’s truly a hidden gem in South America and just waiting to be explored!

Tours in Santiago

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While Chile is a top destination in South America for many, most people come to Chile for Patagonia, access to Easter Island, and to explore its vast landscapes.

People don’t often think of cities in Chile as being a place to stop and stay a while, but we’re here to change that perception.

When I flew to Santiago, I went with an open mind and without any set expectations. It was my starting point, but by no means my only stop. It inspired me to check out more Chilean cities and I learned they had so much more to offer.

After spending some time in the best cities in Chile, it quickly became one of my favorite South American countries. In this guide, I have listed all the cities in Chile that inspired me and why they make a great stop on any Chilean itinerary.

Cities in Chile to Visit in 2023!

Each city in Chile offers something unique and special. They are for any type of traveler, whether you’re a person who appreciates the arts just as much as they do a day surfing at the beach or a treking through the mountains.

So without further ado, here are the best cities I highly recommend visiting in Chile and why they’re ideal as a holiday destination.

1. Santiago

Most of my Chile trip was spent living like a local in Santiago. There is so much to do in Santiago, I hardly know where to begin.

For one thing, the architecture alone will leave you fascinated for days. One of my favorite things to do was explore the different Santiago neighborhoods.

El Golf resembles Miami, while Brasil is as Bohemian as you can get. I lived in the Lastarria barrio which was perfect for my bohemian interests and big city living.

Both the Museo de Artes Visuales Museo Arqueológico de Santiago are located here and Museo de Bellas Artes and Parque Forestal are a short walk away.

My favorite view of Santiago is from the top of the Santa Lucia hill. Entry is free and it proved the perfect place for me to gather my thoughts and write.

2. Valparaíso

Don’t even get me started on Valparaiso. I’m so in love with this city that I seriously contemplated moving here simply because I found it so inspiring.

During the winter, I was able to get a truly local experience. There are hardly any tourists around but there is a lot of street art, which is one of the highlights of Valparaiso.

After speaking with a local resident, I learned that this street art in considered a hobby of many young people in Valpo. The high quality of these artworks barely resembled a hobby; I was hooked.

3. Reñaca

I’ve personally never gone surfing although it was a childhood dream of mine to become a pro surfer. Regardless of skill, Reñaca and Viña del Mar are two beaches that are popular among surfers.

Viña del Mar tends to be a bit crowded during high season. Reñaca is mainly a residential neighborhood a short bus ride away from Viña del Mar.

Despite the cold waters, there was a surfing class going on and I was tempted to jump in and join myself. During the warm weather, locals and travelers enjoy the beach for tanning, swimming and outdoor sports.

While you are there, make sure to check out the local seafood cuisine. It was some of the best I had in all of Chile.

4. Santa Cruz

Part of my time in Chile was unfortunately spent being sick. I think it was a combination of things but mainly due to the fact that I was going from 90 degree weather to much colder temperatures.

Instead of spending a day skiing like my boyfriend and I planned, we opted for a more cultural experience – wine tasting.

A local friend who we met in Santiago offered to drive us about two hours south to Santa Cruz for lunch and wine tasting at Viu Manent Winery.

I used to horseback ride as a kid so I thoroughly enjoyed our horse carriage ride through the fields almost as much as the wine itself. Our lunch was held a few minutes drive away at the famous Hotel Santa Cruz.

You had me at wine

5. Cerro Providencia

If you are craving a little nature and these other cities haven’t quite done it for you, head straight to Cerro Providencia and trek through the mountains.

It’s located just east of Santiago, making it easily accessible for the city dweller. The climb is popular due to it not being terribly challenging but it does offer quite a spectacular view.

6. Pucón

Although more of a town, Pucon has to be featured on this list as it offers so much to anyone visiting Chile. Located in the Araucanía Region, it’s a great destination for those seeking to experience nature and adventure.

With its beautiful snow-capped Andes mountains, glaciers, volcanoes, pristine glacial lakes and lush green forests, Pucón is the perfect place for outdoor activities.

From skiing and snowboarding on the Villarrica Volcano or kayaking on Lake Villarrica to hiking through Huerquehue National Park, there are plenty of adventure sports to take part in.

Visitors can also soak in the thermal hot springs at Huife or explore nearby Conguillio National Park where ancient Mapuche ruins can be found.

Pucón’s vibrant history dates back centuries when it was inhabited by the indigenous Mapuche people who held strong spiritual beliefs about the powerful forces found within nature.

This unique cultural heritage still resonates with visitors today who come to explore and appreciate this special part of the world.

7. Castro

Chile’s coastal town of Castro is a must-see destination for travelers looking to experience the country’s rich history and vibrant culture.

It’s located on Chiloé Island, and is a historic city home to some of Chile’s oldest World Heritage Sites including the Church of San Francisco and the Palafitos de Castro stilt houses.

The unique architecture reflects the area’s Spanish colonial influences, making it a great spot for history buffs to enjoy some sightseeing.

If you prefer the outdoors, you can find a range of activities such as kayaking, whale watching, and fly-fishing.

Aside from its diverse attractions and activities, Castro is also home to a lively cultural scene with festivals, such as “Castro’s Festival Costumbrista”, which celebrates the customs of the island of Chiloe, and features local music, art, food, and theater.

8. Puerto Varas

Puerto Varas is another city in Chile that’s great for travelers looking to experience both nature and history.

The city is located in the foothills of Osorno Volcano, which looms at an altitude of 2,652 meters above sea level, on the shores of Lake Llanquihue, one of the largest and most beautiful lakes in South America.

It’s nestled in Chile’s lake district, which covers for 344 square km and crosses between two provinces, Ninth and Tenth regions. There are 12 major lakes in the lake district, but Lake Llanquihue is the biggest.

Puerto Varas was founded by German settlers in the mid-19th century, giving it an interesting mix of Germanic colonial buildings and traditional Chilean culture.

Visitors can explore the area’s rich history through museums, hiking trails, and boat tours.

Nature lovers will delight in the stunning views that this region has to offer with its diverse landscape ranging from lush glacial forests to snow-capped peaks.

Adventuresome travelers can enjoy kayaking, hiking, climbing trails, skiing, fishing and sailing trips on Lake Llanquihue or explore its nearby rivers and active volcanoes.

With its wide variety of activities and breathtaking scenery, Puerto Varas is one of the best cities in Chile because of its diversity.

9. La Serena

La Serena is a beautiful city in Chile located right next to the Pacific Ocean.

It was founded in 1544, making it the second oldest city in Chile and boasts an impressive colonial heritage, with cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses in neo-colonial architecture that are sure to delight any visitor.

La Serena features many historical attractions such as the monuments San Francisco de Asis and El Faro, both of which overlook the city from their hilltop perches.

La Serena is also home to numerous beaches, beach resorts, and parks, making it a perfect destination for beachgoers and nature lovers.

At night, visitors can enjoy the thriving nightlife, with many casinos or live music events happening nightly throughout town.

La Serena is a laid-back city that has something for everyone, making it an ideal vacation spot for those looking for a bit of relaxation combined with fun and adventure.

La Serena is one of the best places for astronomers as it’s the gateway to the Elqui Valley, which is known to have clearest skies in the southern hemisphere.

10. Arica

Arica is a beautiful city that offers travellers the perfect combination of culture and nature.

With its long and fascinating history, there are plenty of historic sites to explore, such as the ruins of Azapa Valley, the old Fort with its ancient cannons, and San Marcos Cathedral.

For adventure seekers, Arica offers many different activities like snorkeling in the bay, surfing on the sandy beaches or taking a hike up El Morro on the peninsula for incredible views over the city.

It’s also known for its vibrant, cultural festivals throughout the year, such as the buzzing Arica Carnival.

It’s also the gateway to the Lauca National Park for those who want to see some of Chile’s breathtaking scenery.

Arica is known for its mild climate year-round so visitors can enjoy a beach day any day they choose.

Being located near Peru and Bolivia makes it easy to visit these other countries too while enjoying all that Arica has to offer during your stay.

12. Concepción

Concepción is a large city in Chile known for its mysterious beauty and fascinating history.

Located on the banks of the Bíobío River, it offers a wealth of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures and natural attractions.

With its colonial architecture, spectacular coastal views and vibrant university scene, Concepción is an ideal destination for those seeking exciting activities and a unique travel experience.

The city was founded in 1550 by Spanish colonizers who named it after the Virgin Mary, Nuestra Señora de la Asunción.

Its captivating culture is filled with fascinating stories about brave conquistadors and their battles against indigenous tribes.

You can explore historical sites such as the National Museum of Natural History or take a tour of one of the many 18th century monuments.

Concepción also provides plenty of opportunities for visitors to get active outdoors.

From mountain biking to trekking through nearby forests or sailing along the Bíobío River, there’s something for everyone to enjoy that showcases Chile’s stunning landscapes.

13. Rapa Nui

Rapa Nui is a destination like no other. With its fascinating ancient history and remarkable culture, if you have the means to go there, you simply should.

Rapa Nui, otherwise known as Easter Island, was once inhabited by a thriving Polynesian people who built hundreds of remarkable massive stone statues known as moai, which are now world famous.

The island’s traditional culture also remains strong today with vibrant festivals and ceremonies throughout the year.

In addition to its rich history and culture, visitors can explore stunning beaches fringed with palm trees and crystal blue waters filled with colorful fish.

With its fascinating history and exciting activities, Rapa Nui is a great place for vacationers who want to experience something truly unique.

14. San Pedro de Atacama

Although it’s a town, San Pedro de Atacama should not be missed off any Chile trip. It’s the gateway to the Atacama Desert, the world’s driest desert, as well as the Salar de Atacama salt flats.

Also in the desert is many geologic wonders, such as the Tatio Geysers, the largest geyser field in the world, which is about 1.5 hours drive from the town of San Pedro de Atacama.

Also nearby is the Los Flamencos National Reserve, which is home to the Valle de la Luna, a valley known for it’s moon-like landscape with rugged sand dunes and distinct rock formations that look like craters.

The town itself is small and quiet, but it’s so ideally located near to some of Chile’s top adventures, it simply cannot be skipped.

15. Puerto Natales

The last city in Chile on this list you must visit is Puerto Natales.

Located at the southern tip of Chile, on the edge of Torres del Paine National Park which extends into Argentina, it was founded in 1911 by the Chilean Navy and has remained an important port town ever since.

The stunning natural landscape surrounding the city offers a wealth of opportunities for exploration, including glaciers, mountains, and fjords to explore.

In addition, the city also boasts a number of interesting historical sites, including Punta Arenas, which is North America’s southernmost city.

Visitors can go kayaking or take boat tours through the Patagonian fjords to experience some of the most breathtaking views imaginable.

For those looking for something more cultural and interactive, there are a variety of museums and art galleries located throughout Puerto Natales including Museo del Mar y la Naturaleza de Magallanes.

Overall, Puerto Natales offers visitors an incredible range of experiences, from outdoor adventure to cultural exploration.

Best Time to Visit Chile

Chile is a country that can be visited all year round, but you will find fewer crowds and great weather in the shoulder seasons of spring (September – October) and autumn.

Autumn (March, April, May) still has snow in Patagonia, so you might want to opt for summer time (November to January) if you want to add some hiking on to your trip.

Winter (May – August) is not the ideal time to visit because of snow, but if you just stick to the cities, you’ll still have an enjoyable time.

Final Thoughts on Cities in Chile to Visit

Chile’s geography reminded me a lot of California, with everything from beaches, to mountains, to wineries, to deserts.

So if one city doesn’t quite do it for you, there are plenty of others that offer the chance to escape to the beaches, or head out on nature walks and outdoors hiking.

Chilean cities are not just a vibe in themselves, but a great base to explore some of Chile’s iconic landscapes and nature spots.

We hope this guide helped you decide which cities in Chile to add to your itinerary and helped you plan your trip.

Have you been to Chile before? Can you add to this list? Let us know in the comments!

My name is Anthony and I’m from TheTravelTart.com (say hi to me @TheTravelTart on Twitter). I write about the funny, offbeat, and weird aspects of world travel today.

Caz and Craig have been silly enough to let me write a guest post for them about some of the awesome travel experiences in South America.

If you haven’t been there yet, you have to go, as this colourful continent offers up a feast of great adventures. And they don’t need to necessarily be the most famous ones like Machu Picchu in Peru, or Carnival in Rio.

To work yourself up for a South American feast, I’d strongly suggest checking out the awesome movie called ‘The Motorcycle Diaries‘, which recounts a journey Che Guevara undertook with his best mate across South America on a barely roadworthy two wheeled beast.

You will be wanting to buy a motorbike to do their trip as well!

Here is a list of some great South American experiences I’ve personally come across in my travels.

1. Watch a soccer game in Buenos Aires, Argentina

If you thought your local derby in whatever sport you follow can be a bit tense at times, then if you’re ever in Buenos Aires, try and catch a soccer (football) game there and see how insane the fans are there.

I had to be searched by two sets of riot police before entering a game between Boca Juniors and Estudiantes – while an overhead helicopter kept an eye out for hooligans.

Before the game had even commenced, dedicated fans risked almost certain death by scaling tall black steel barriers and barbed-wire to place their feverishly hand-painted banners – not that the police were watching anyway.

I then spent the next couple of hours suffering industrial deafness from the roar of the Boca Juniors fans, in combination with the band in the crowd that consisted of dozens of bass drums and an entire horn section.

Singing was prevalent throughout the entire match, even at half time when there was no action on the field. The stands were shaking from the fans jumping up and down in anticipation of a goal.

If you want to see the definition of ‘passion’, then a soccer game in Argentina is the first one that comes into my head! An experience I will never forget.

As another example, I talked to an Italian backpacker who witnessed the superclasico between Boca Juniors and River Plate at the River Plate Stadium the week before.

He was in the home team area (River Plate) when they scored a goal. Everyone rushed to the front to let out their emotions, and he lost his footing. He had to grab onto something – someone’s T-Shirt, and ripped it clean off him. Not that the punter cared – his team had won!

2. Cycle Down The World’s Most Dangerous Road, Bolivia

Many places claim they have ‘The World’s Most Dangerous Road’, but the one I’m talking about is the La Paz to Coroico Road in Bolivia.

This used to be a two lane highway – but it’s barely wide enough for one car width in some places. This ‘Road of Death’ claimed an average of 20 vehicles each year until a new highway opened in 2007 – in fact, the locals were so annoyed off with the old road, that they used the new road even during the construction period!

However, these days, only tourists are silly enough to use this road now via mountain bike trips. The trip is about 70 kilometers long and starts at 4000 metres above sea level (sometimes in the snow), and finishes at 1500 metres above sea level – in tropical forest.

It takes about 6 to 7 hours cycling downhill. The hardest part is a 3 kilometre uphill pedal at 3500 metres – which almost burst my lungs due to the lack of oxygen at that altitude.

Some masochistic people have cycled up road – and this takes about 12 hours. Way more than what my fitness levels allow for!

The drop over the edge is about 600 metres. In fact, about 10 people have lost their lives mountain biking down this magnificent part of Bolivia. But don’t let that put you off. Believe me, it’s worth risking your life to ride this fantastic track!

I was on a high for days after cycling down The World’s Most Dangerous Road – in fact, I wanted to go again!

3. Drink Coffee at a ‘Cafe Con Piernas’ in Santiago, Chile

This is one of the most bizarre travel experiences you will ever have! Cafe Con Piernas literally means ‘Coffee With Legs’.

It’s surprising that something like Café con Piernas took off in a staunchly Catholic country like Chile.

So what is it?

In a nutshell, it’s like visiting a strip joint at 9am in the morning. But you’re there to drink coffee. I visited one in Santiago, Chile on a visit there in 2007.

Some of these coffee drinking establishments are no bigger than a bedroom. As soon as one walks in, you will be greeted by a platform of ladies dressed in skimpy costumes, ready to serve you a caffeine hit.

Note, they don’t actually do any stripping routines – the ladies serve you coffee in costumes more suited to the beaches at Rio de Janeiro.

Café con Piernas is not the domain of just men either – women often go to have their caffeine hit as well. A male version for ladies was experimented with in Santiago temporarily – but miserably failed.

Ironically, the coffee isn’t that expensive – only around $1-2 USD. Cafe Con Piernas really needs to be seen to be believed!

Walk alongside Iguazu Falls in Brazil and Argentina

Iguazu Falls for me is one of those ‘WOW’ places. That’s a big statement to make, but Iguazu Falls lives up to the hype. The falls were created by a volcanic eruption that occurred about one hundred million years ago.

Iguazu Falls are wider than both Niagara and Victoria Falls, which is a heap of water in anyone’s language.

There are about 275 individual waterfalls at Iguazu however this number decreases in the wet season when rain falls down from a great height and the falls merge together.

Iguazu falls requires at least two days to explore the falls by foot – the Brazilian side offers the best panoramic view, while the Argentine side provides a much closer look.

These four great experiences are just a tiny fraction of what South America has to offer.

I find the South American continent addictive because of the incredibly diverse environments there, but most of all, the people know how to make you feel welcome and you will most likely be dragged into some crazy parties there!

Vamos!

More posts about South America:

• 5 Must Visit Destinations in South America
• Travelling South America with a baby – Would you do it?

More Resources for South America:

• Lonely Planet South America on a shoestring
• South America (Insight Guides)

Have you been to any of these places in South America before?

The Travel Tart (sometimes known as Anthony) is a self-proclaimed travel addict who will find any excuse to go travelling. He discovered he really enjoyed traveling the world when he was sent to a former war zone for work – Kosovo – as his first venture outside of Australia and New Zealand. This created a habit of visiting places that most package tourists avoid like the plague. While travelling, he likes risking his life by utilising barely road-worthy forms of transport such as African mini-buses, suicidal Cairo cabs, and flatulent camels.