Top 5: Natural Attractions in Chile

The long, drawn-out shape of Chile means the nation spreads over an incredible number of different latitudes, affording it a huge number of different climates and environments.

Chile stretches from the southernmost point of South America to its border with Peru, from icy fjords to the driest desert in the world. As a result there is a huge amount for nature lovers to experience in Chile, and here are five of the top attractions.

Torres del Paine National Park © Leonardospencer | Dreamstime

Torres del Paine National Park

The spectacular natural beauty of the natural park is best seen on the famous five-day W trek. After trekking to glaciers and lakes, take in the centerpiece of the park, the towers which give it its name.

Palafitos of Chiloe Island © Jeremy Richards | Dreamstime

Chiloe Island

This mysterious island is home to a proud, independent people that maintain a separate identity from the rest of Chile. The misty shores and rolling green hills offer something different to the visitor as well.

Pucon Beach © Brizardh | Dreamstime

Pucon 

The town of Pucon sits on the edge of Lake Villarica, nestled in the Andes near the border with Argentina. The scenery is simply stunning, and the town serves as a base for rafting trips and other active pursuits.

Valle del Elqui, Vicuna © Jesse Kraft | Dreamstime

Valle del Elqui

Visit the town of Vicuna in the Valle del Elqui, as famous for its landscapes as it is as the birthplace of Chilean national spirit pisco and world-renowned writer Isabel Allende.

Valle de la Luna, Atacama Desert © Brizardh | Dreamstime

Valle de la Luna, Atacama Desert

Way up near the border with Bolivia is the Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley), an other-wordly landscape part of the driest desert in the world, the Atacama. Spectacular rock formations make for an awe-inspiring day trip from nearby San Pedro de Atacama.