Chile Things to Do

While the Northern Hemisphere bakes in the hottest summer on record, savvy skiers are headed south to hit the slopes in Chile’s icy Andean highlands. These glacial mountains and snowcapped volcanoes are topped with more than 20 ski centers, ranging from posh resorts to community-operated spots and everything in between.

The southernmost city in the Americas, Punta Arenas, Chile is seen by most travelers as merely a gateway to the Antarctic. But this convenient town at the Chile’s glacier carved tip, overlooking the Straits of Magellan, has plenty to recommend.

Chile’s signature dishes come from up and down the 6435-kilometer (3990-mile) coastline, not just Patagonia. Here are just a few favorites to get you started.

Chile’s second city, known for its dramatic hills and magnificent ocean views, has plenty of family-friendly activities. Keep in mind that the city’s steeply pitched topography setting can be difficult for little ones unused to the climb (and its uneven sidewalks make strollers a challenge, at best). But with beautiful parks, festive beaches and plenty to see and do, you and your family can have a fantastic time.

Despite its stunning setting and sleek, ultra-modern air, few would characterize the capital of Chile as an endless assortment of tourist attractions on par with, say, Cancun. This is part of its charm, and it invites the casual traveler to enjoy a gorgeous bottle of wine or delightful night out without any sort of Disney-esque pretensions.

At the same time, Santiago makes a most comfortable base—with wonderful theaters, museum and great food—for exploring the dramatic Chilean landscape all around.

In the heart of beautiful Barrio Bellavista, with its tree-lined streets, artsy shops and bohemian galleries, you’ll find the former house of Nobel Prize-winning poet Pablo Neruda and his beloved La Chascona. The airy abode was built by Santiago’s favorite son for his mistress, and later wife, singer Matilde Urrutia.