Chile is a South American Country defined by mountains and valleys, beaches and deserts that offer mysteries and adventures. This is the place of extremes and it gets overwhelming to decide how to discover Chilean gems. So, if you are planning a trip to Chile, here are the activities you can do and places you can explore. Your Chile itinerary must include Easter Island, Torres del Paine, Atacama Desert, and Santiago city. Each place has a plethora of things to do in Chile and deserves a place in your plan. So, follow this Chile travel guide and make the best of your time - 

1. Marvel at the ancient mystery at Easter Island 

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Taking a tour of Easter Island heads is definitely one of the best things to do in Chile. If you are one of those who wonder where is Easter Island, then this tiny Chilean island is in the south-eastern Pacific Ocean. Home to hundreds of huge stone-carved human figures, these Easter Island statues were created by original inhabitants of the island Rupa Nei people in 1200 AD. UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Ahu Tongariki, Ahu Akivi, and Ahu Tahai are scattered around the island and are perfect for mysterious adventure. 

2. Discover what Chiloé Island has to offer

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Step on Chiloé Island and you will get to experience a unique amalgamation of culture and nature. Some of the best Chile attractions like Iglesia de Tenaún, Church of Chonchi, and Church of San Francisco, Castro can be found here. Visit the historic wooden churches, soak in the view from Islotes de Puñihuil Natural Monument, explore hiking trails that take you in the heart of different nature preserves, and get a glimpse of true Chilean life. 

3. Go for stargazing in the Atacama Desert

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Chile has managed to turn one of the driest places on earth into something extraordinary. The Atacama Desert, where Mars-like landscapes welcome you and stargazing opportunities are plenty, is a must for your Chile trip. You can go mountain biking, watch flamingos at Los Flamencos National Reserve, visit El Tatio geyser, and be amazed by the landscapes of Valle de la Luna here. And of course, this Chile guide cannot be complete without mentioning exquisite Salar de Atacama salt flats.

4. Plan a hiking trip in the Cajón del Maipo

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Be it the rich birdlife, lush greenery, or rugged landscapes, Cajón del Maipo casts its magical spell with a plethora of options. Some of the top things to do in Chile can be found in this canyon. A paradise for campers and hikers, activities like rafting, canoeing, and skiing are also popular here. You can consider taking a day-trip from Santiago to Cajón del Maipo to make the most of your time. 

5. Be in the heart of nature at Torres del Paine

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Torres del Paine is the place that plays an important role in Chile tourism with its beauty. This is the national park where boating through the huge glaciers, walking the famous ‘W’ route, hiking some of the most challenging trails, and enjoying breath-taking sunsets on the lagoon is possible. When you are wondering what to do in Chile, all you have to do is head off to Torres del Paine National Park to choose from an array of options. Be it the turquoise water, white-blue glaciers, or green valleys that call your name, it is bound to be a vibrant affair here. 

6. Explore the city of Santiago 

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Santiago is a bustling city hidden in the valley with a backdrop of Andes peaks and proximity to Chilean Coast. This makes sure that you find numerous things to do in Santiago, Chile during your vacation. Go to the top of San Cristóbal Hill and Santa Lucía Hill to get a bird’s eye views of the cityscape. Stop by Plaza de Armas to enjoy its architectural beauty and go to the Central Market to be a part of the local landscape. Do not forget to take a tour of Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino along with Museum of Memory and Human Rights Here! 

7. Meet hundreds of penguins at Isla Magdalena

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If you think tiny Isla Magdalena can be skipped, then you cannot be more wrong. Home to one of the largest colonies of Magellanic penguins, this island will take you in another world. You can only spend a couple of hours here on a guided tour and are not allowed to go beyond marked paths in order to protect the penguins. But, for those who are looking for unique Chile tourist attractions, it is all worth the efforts. 

8. Discover the wonders of Cavernas de Marmol

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I do not know why only a few people are talking about these spectacular Cavernas de Marmol. These marble caves are located on the border of Chile and Argentine on the Lake General Carrera. The walls carry exquisite shades of blue, pink, and white where azure waters and dancing sunrays add a surreal grace to every corner of Cavernas de Marmol. Visit these caves during your Chile vacation and you will get to witness an otherworldly beauty. 

9. Be charmed by the beauty of Puerto Varas 

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The city of Puerto Varas is the perfect destination for the Bravehearts. If you are up for hiking active volcanos, then Calbuco and Osorno welcome you with open arms. Kayaking or fishing in summers and skiing in winters here are some of the best things to do in Chile. Puerto Varas is the place where you will get to see the combination of German-inspired buildings and traditional Chilean lifestyle. So, do not miss a chance to explore this lesser-known city in Chile. 

10. Be mesmerized by the cascading Petrohué Waterfalls 

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Even though every national park in Chile has equally striking sites for you, Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park will take your breath away with its majestic Petrohué Waterfalls. Hiking here to soak in the water of the falls and enjoying a postcard-perfect backdrop of Osorno Volcano is something you should add in your Chile itinerary. From a relaxing picnic to tiring hikes, the area around Petrohué Waterfalls is perfect for everything! 

11. Soak in the Bohemian vibes in Valparaiso

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As you explore the old streets of Valparaíso, you slowly understand why famous poet Pablo Neruda was inspired by this city. When it comes to things to do in Valparaiso, Chile, it is a colorful mix of beaches where you can go surfing and places like La Sebastiana Museo de Pablo Neruda where you can get a glimpse of Neruda’s life. As it has something for every type of traveler, your Chile travel will introduce you to quirky murals and street art while offering a peaceful getaway in Viña del Mar Botanical Garden. 

12. Take a free guided tour of Chuquicamata Mines 

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This Chile travel guide will tell you about the largest open pit copper mine of Chuquicamata which is hidden in the plain sight from decades. It will be a unique experience to tour this mine and understand how it works on such a giant scale. Keep in mind that Chuquicamata Mines tours are usually conducted on weekday afternoons and need to be booked in advance. 

With so many interesting things to do in Chile, your trip to this South American country will be full of adventures!