Exploring the regions of Chile

Discover the regions of Chile with Latin Routes Product Executive, Oliver Pryse

Chile is one of those destinations where every region feels completely different.  The regions of Chile boast vast deserts, glacier-filled fjords, volcanoes, vineyards and remote wilderness combine to create a country that rewards curiosity and adventure.

In my role as Product Executive at Latin Routes, I spend time researching the destinations, experiences and hotels that truly stand out across Latin America. Chile is a country I always enjoy returning to because of the sheer variety it offers travellers.

Below are some of the regions of Chile I most enjoy including in itineraries, along with the experiences and hotels I believe help travellers connect more deeply with each destination.

From star-filled desert skies and volcano-framed lakes to remote Patagonian wilderness and celebrated wine valleys, these are some of my favourite regions, experiences and places to stay across Chile.

Atacama desert

The Atacama Desert feels otherworldly from the moment you arrive. Towering volcanoes rise above shimmering salt flats, geysers erupt through frozen morning air and wind-shaped valleys glow gold and red at sunset. It is a region where the scenery constantly changes, yet every landscape feels more dramatic than the last.

“Every part of the Atacama feels different,” says Oliver. “You can spend the morning watching steam rise from high-altitude geysers, then end the day amongst flamingos on mirror-like lagoons before heading out beneath some of the clearest night skies on Earth.”

Things to do

Stargazing in the Atacama

San Pedro de Atacama is widely considered one of the best stargazing destinations on the planet thanks to its high altitude, dry climate and exceptionally low light pollution. The region is also home to the world-famous ALMA Observatory, the most powerful radio telescope on Earth.

Joining a guided stargazing excursion here is an unforgettable experience, particularly during periods with little moonlight when the skies are at their clearest.

Exploring the desert landscapes

The Atacama’s landscapes constantly shift from one dramatic setting to another. Highlights include:

• Moon Valley with its sculpted rock formations and golden dunes
• Salar de Atacama, Chile’s largest salt flat
• Chaxa Lagoon, known for its flamingos and reflective waters
• El Tatio Geysers, one of the highest geyser fields in the world
• Piedras Rojas, where vivid red volcanic rock contrasts against blue lagoons and snow-capped peaks

Oliver’s favourite stay in the Atacama

Nayara Alto Atacama

“A stay at Nayara Alto Atacama really connects you with the landscape,” says Oliver. “The adobe design blends beautifully into the desert surroundings, and after a day exploring, it feels like a genuine oasis.”

Set amongst striking red rock scenery, Nayara Alto Atacama combines luxury with immersive desert experiences, from expertly guided excursions to its own dedicated stargazing viewpoint.

For travellers looking for a more traditional desert stay close to the centre of San Pedro de Atacama, Oliver also recommends Hotel La Casa de Don Tomás.

The Austral Highway

The Carretera Austral, or Austral Highway, cuts through some of the wildest scenery in Chilean Patagonia. This remote route winds past turquoise rivers, ancient forests, hanging glaciers and mirror-like lakes, revealing landscapes that still feel largely untouched by mass tourism.

“This is the side of Patagonia that still feels wonderfully remote,” explains Oliver. “The landscapes are spectacular, but it’s also the feeling of travelling through somewhere untouched that makes the Austral Highway so special.”

Things to do

Visit the Marble Caves

The Marble Caves are among Patagonia’s most photographed natural wonders. Accessible by boat or kayak, these swirling blue caverns have been shaped over thousands of years by the turquoise waters of General Carrera Lake.

Spot pumas in Patagonia National Park

Patagonia National Park is increasingly recognised as one of the best regions of Chile to potentially spot pumas in the wild.

“Nothing is ever guaranteed with wildlife,” says Oliver, “but the rewilding work carried out by Tompkins Conservation has transformed this area. Restoring prey populations and protecting the landscape has helped create one of the best environments in Chile for puma sightings.”

The Chacabuco Valley is considered one of the best areas for wildlife viewing.

Queulat National Park and the Hanging Glacier

One of the Austral Highway’s most iconic sights is the Hanging Glacier in Queulat National Park. Suspended dramatically between steep mountain slopes, the glacier feeds powerful waterfalls that cascade into the valley below.

Explore Caleta Tortel

Caleta Tortel is unlike anywhere else in Chile. Instead of streets, the village is connected by an intricate network of wooden boardwalks overlooking remote Patagonian fjords.

The area is also known for the dramatic Baker-Neff river confluence, where bright turquoise water collides with glacial milky-blue currents.

Oliver’s favourite stays along the Austral Highway

Explora Patagonia National Park

“With just a handful of rooms and incredible access to Patagonia National Park, Explora offers a really intimate experience,” says Oliver. “The guiding is exceptional and the focus on conservation is something that really stands out.”

Part of the Conscious Routes Collection, Explora Patagonia National Park combines sustainability with expertly tailored explorations in one of Chile’s most remote regions.

El Pangue Lodge

Located beside Lake Risopatron, El Pangue Lodge was built using native hardwoods by local carpenters, creating an authentic base from which to explore the surrounding forests and fjords.

Entre Hielos

For travellers venturing to Caleta Tortel, Entre Hielos offers a comfortable and welcoming stay right in the heart of one of Patagonia’s most unique villages.

Chilean Lake District

The Chilean Lake District is one of the country’s most picturesque regions, where snow-capped volcanoes tower above deep blue lakes and thick temperate rainforest. Alongside the scenery, the region is shaped by strong Mapuche traditions, relaxed lakeside towns and a slower pace of travel.

“This region has a completely different atmosphere to Patagonia further south,” says Oliver. “You still have incredible scenery, but there’s also a strong cultural identity, charming lakeside towns and fantastic food.”

Things to do

Explore around Puerto Varas

Puerto Varas is one of the Lake District’s most attractive towns, framed by views of Osorno Volcano and Llanquihue Lake.

Nearby highlights include:

• Petrohué Falls
• Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, Chile’s oldest national park
• Gentle walking trails and excellent photography opportunities
• German-influenced towns such as Frutillar, known for traditional wooden architecture

Adventure around Pucón

Pucón is one of Chile’s best regions for adventure travel, surrounded by volcanoes, forests, lakes and thermal springs.

“It’s a fantastic area for active travellers,” says Oliver. “You can spend your days hiking, rafting or exploring the national parks, then unwind in hot springs in the evening.”

The region is also an important cultural centre for the indigenous Mapuche people, with opportunities for respectful and authentic cultural experiences.

Explore Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve

Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve protects vast areas of temperate rainforest filled with waterfalls, wildlife and walking trails.

One of the region’s most distinctive properties is the remarkable Nothofagus Hotel.

Oliver’s favourite stays in the Lake District

&Beyond Vira Vira

“Vira Vira offers something really different,” says Oliver. “It combines luxury and adventure with a genuine connection to the local landscape and culture.”

Located within a working estate in the Araucanía region, the lodge offers farm-to-table dining, extensive activities and even its own boutique cheese factory.

Nothofagus Hotel

Set within the rainforest canopy, Nothofagus is one of the most unusual and visually striking hotels in Latin America. Its circular wooden structure is inspired by the Southern Beech trees that dominate the surrounding forest.

Hotel Puelche

Built in a traditional alpine style with just 21 rooms, Hotel Puelche provides a welcoming base for exploring the Lake District around Puerto Varas.

Southern Patagonia and Torres del Paine

Southern Patagonia delivers the kind of scenery that stays with you long after you return home. Jagged granite peaks rise above turquoise lakes, glaciers spill through vast valleys and the weather can transform the landscape within minutes. At the heart of it all sits Torres del Paine National Park, one of the most celebrated natural regions in Latin America.

“For many travellers, Torres del Paine is the image people immediately associate with Patagonia,” says Oliver. “The granite peaks, glaciers and wildlife are every bit as impressive in real life.”

Things to do

Explore Torres del Paine National Park

Torres del Paine offers world-class scenery and walking opportunities ranging from gentle trails to the famous multi-day W Trek.

The park is also one of the best wildlife destinations in Latin America, with frequent sightings of guanacos and Andean condors, alongside chances to spot foxes, rheas and even elusive pumas.

Beyond hiking, visitors can also enjoy:

• Horse riding with local baqueanos
• Boat trips across glacial lakes
• Kayaking excursions
• Wildlife photography

Cruise through Patagonia with Australis

An Australis expedition cruise allows travellers to explore remote fjords, channels and islands that are otherwise difficult to access.

“Seeing Patagonia from the water gives you a completely different perspective,” explains Oliver. “You’re surrounded by glaciers, mountains and wildlife with very few signs of civilisation.”

Depending on the season, wildlife sightings can include penguins, sea lions, dolphins and even humpback whales.

Oliver’s favourite stays in Southern Patagonia

Las Torres Patagonia

Located within Torres del Paine National Park itself, Las Torres offers direct access to some of the region’s most iconic hiking routes.

“The location is fantastic,” says Oliver. “You’re right at the heart of the national park, and there’s a real focus on authentic Patagonian culture and conservation.”

The family-owned property offers all-inclusive programmes featuring guided walks, horse riding and immersive local experiences.

Tierra Patagonia

Part of the Conscious Routes Collection, Tierra Patagonia sits beside Lake Sarmiento with sweeping views across the national park.

Designed to blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape, the lodge combines luxurious comfort with expertly guided excursions throughout Patagonia.

Chilean winelands

After the dramatic landscapes of the desert and Patagonia, Chile’s wine regions offer a softer and more relaxed side of the country. Rolling vineyards stretch beneath the Andes, boutique wineries welcome visitors for long lunches and tastings, and luxurious retreats create the perfect setting to slow the pace of travel.

“Chile’s wine regions work brilliantly either as a standalone escape or at the end of a longer adventure holiday,” says Oliver. “After exploring Patagonia or the Atacama, it’s the perfect place to slow down and unwind.”

Things to do

Wine tasting experiences

Wine experiences can range from informal tastings at boutique vineyards to full gastronomic experiences paired with Chilean cuisine.

Many vineyards can also be explored by bicycle or through guided excursions to neighbouring wineries.

Oliver’s favourite stays in the winelands

Casa Real Santa Rita

Located around 90 minutes from Santiago Airport, Casa Real Santa Rita combines vineyard experiences with historic elegance.

Set within extensive landscaped grounds, the converted mansion house is now recognised as a National Monument and offers an ideal final stop before flying home.

VIK Chile

“VIK feels incredibly exclusive because of its setting,” says Oliver. “You have panoramic vineyard views in every direction, excellent food and wine, and plenty of activities beyond traditional tastings.”

Set within a vast nature reserve in the Cachapoal Valley, VIK Chile combines contemporary architecture with luxury experiences including horse riding, walking trails, cooking classes and spa treatments.

Planning your Chile holiday

One of Chile’s greatest strengths is the sheer variety of experiences available within a single trip. Travellers can combine deserts, glaciers, volcanoes, lakes, wildlife and vineyards into one unforgettable journey.

“Chile rewards travellers who want variety,” says Oliver. “You can experience landscapes that feel completely different from one another, yet everything connects together into one incredible country.”

Whether you are looking for adventure, wildlife, culture, luxury lodges or dramatic natural scenery, the regions of Chile offers experiences unlike anywhere else in Latin America.

To start planning your tailor-made Chile holiday, speak to our Travel Specialists or explore our Chile holidays online.

Browse our Chile Holidays