Best of Chile: Santiago, Atacama and Valparaíso

About the destination: Santiago is the capital and the economic and cultural hub of Chile. Santiago is situated in the central valley of Chile, flanked by the Andes mountain range to the east and the Coastal Cordillera to the west. The vibrant Plaza de Armas is the heart of Santiago. In close proximity, you can find many of the city’s attractions, such as the Cathedral. The Palacio de La Moneda is a must-visit for its significant role in Chilean history, and you can witness the daily changing of the guard. Ascend Cerro Santa Lucia for a breathtaking view of the city and to appreciate its intriguing landscape and baroque architecture. For museum lovers, the Museo Chileno del Arte Precolombino is a must-visit for its Pre-Columbian collection. Santiago's Bohemian district, Bario Bellavista, is teeming with restaurants and bars. La Chascona, one of Pablo Neruda's residences, is also situated here. A short distance from Bario Bellavista is Cerro San Cristobal, ideal for a leisurely hike. Be sure to visit the Mercardo Central, famous for its fresh fish. A cosmopolitan and vibrant city, Santiago has a lot to offer. With great clubs, ample shopping, and fascinating landmarks, Santiago is a fantastic city to explore.

About the destination: San Pedro de Atacama is one of the most popular cultural attractions in Chile. This town is the hub of the Atacama Indian culture, whose ancestors inhabited the desert many years ago. The Padre Le Paige Museum boasts a collection of about 4,000 artifacts, countless mummies, weapons, and pottery on display. Additionally, you can discover a fascinating indigenous culture that thrived in this arid region. It boasts a rich history and geography with a vast natural landscape. The majestic scenery, which includes volcanoes and lakes, is just the start of an incredible and unforgettable tourism adventure.

About the destination: Valparaíso is a city in Chile, situated northwest of Santiago. It is one of the country's most significant seaports and is becoming an increasingly important cultural hub in the Southeast Pacific. The city serves as the capital of both the Valparaíso Province and the Valparaíso Region. Plaza Sotomayor, the city's main square, is home to a large monument dedicated to local heroes and the stunning building of The Armada de Chile. Surrounding Plaza Sotomayor, visitors will find a variety of shops and some of the funiculars that provide a panoramic view of the city. Pablo Neruda's house, La Sebastiana, is perched on a steep hill overlooking the city and harbor. The house and its gardens offer breathtaking views and are filled with memories, poems, books, a wooden horse, and a bar with a nautical theme. Valparaiso is known for its unique architecture, with colorful houses perched on cliffs, surrounded by trees and historic buildings at the base. The city is a joy to explore, with each hill offering its own unique character and community. Valparaiso is a vibrant mix of people, poets, bohemians, and lovers, and is recognized globally as the jewel of the Pacific.