Chile

Stargazing in the driest desert in the world (near San Pedro de Atacama)... Millennial glaciers in the southernmost part of the planet... Enchanted forests... Lakes set at the foot of massive volcanoes... <br /> <br /> This is Chile, where islands full of legends, skiing come summer, great wine-making traditions, the world’s largest swimming pool, prime surfing, eclectic architecture and a burgeoning culinary scene make this destination one that’s as exciting as it is diverse.<br /> <br /> Mountains provide a magnificent setting for capital Santiago: an energetic, easily explored city, with the nearby vineyards of the Casablanca Valley and the colourful port of Valparaiso (with its multi-coloured houses, hilly streets and iconic funicular railways) perfectly placed for an easy day trip.<br /> <br /> In the far south, Patagonia’s Torres del Paine is one of Earth’s most beautiful places; while at the other extreme – literally, being as far north as you can go – is Chile’s other wonderland, the Atacama Desert, a strange, unearthly landscape of salt flats, lakes, volcanoes and geysers, particularly haunting around the famous Valle de la Luna.<br /> <br /> All too soon though, it’s time to transfer back to Santiago to head home – although Chile’s awe-inspiring sights will stay with you forever!

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

CAPITAL CITY | Santiago
TIME DIFFERENCE | GMT -5 hours
BEST TIME TO VISIT | Oct-Mar
CURRENCY | Chilean Peso