Colorful culture meets vibrant nature in this tantalizing region.
Surrounded by the magnificent snow-capped Andes, Santiago, the nation’s capital - and Chile’s largest city - is a dream destination. It's well-known for its vibrant nightlife and spectacular street dancing and boasts unmissable landmarks like Plaza de Armas, the Metropolitan Cathedral and the monumental La Moneda Palace. However, it’s by visiting Santiago’s colorful neighborhoods that travelers start to get a sense of the city’s unique character. You’ll also find traditional Chilean dishes such as empanadas (filled pastries), pastel de choclo (beef and corn casserole), and Cazuela de Ave (Chilean chicken stew) all over the city.
Ready to explore a little further afield? Just 72 miles (116 km) away is the kaleidoscopic coastal town of Valparaiso, where you can ride the funiculars, explore the UNESCO-listed historic quarter and enjoy some of the most breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Not far from Valparaiso is La Campana National Park. There are some great hiking trails, and light-footed explorers might even spot a huemul or two. Along with big cats like pumas and an abundance of birds, wildlife species are abundant here. It is fitting, considering its iconic Cerro La Campana, where Charles Darwin famously hiked.
Just over an hour's drive from Santiago is Cajón del Maipo, a wild and mountainous area perfect for hiking and horseback riding. It also has some steamy hot springs! Sporty travelers can reinvigorate their senses with a spot of surfing in the laidback coastal town of Pichilemu before toasting their adventures with a refreshing glass of Carmenere from the Colchagua Valley; this is Chile’s lesser-known but exceptional wine-producing region.
Your Luxury Northern Chile Trip Ideas
All of our Chile itineraries include visits to Central Chile, specifically Santiago, which is home to leafy parklands, rich history, colorful street art, chic cafes and excellent museums. The Chile Family Holiday, Chile Honeymoon, Classic Chile Tour and Luxury Chile Holiday itineraries also visit Valparaíso, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a colorful coastal city.
Chile Honeymoon
Santiago, Valparaiso, Casablanca, San Pedro de Atacama, Easter Island (Rapa Nui).
Discover MoreTwo-Week Luxury Holiday in Chile
Santiago, San Pedro de Atacama, Punta Arenas, Puerto Natales, Valparaíso, San Antonio Valley.
Discover MoreChile Luxury Holiday
Santiago, San Pedro de Aatacama, Casablanca, Torres del Paine National Park.
Discover More11-Day Family Trip to Chile
Santiago, Atacama, Santiago, Puerto Varas, Futangue.
Discover MoreTwo-Week Chile Adventure Holiday
Casablanca, Mallin Colorado, Puerto Natales, Torres del Paine National Park, Santiago.
Discover MoreWhen to go to Central Chile
Whether you’re strolling the streets of Santiago, visiting vibrant and colorful Valparaiso or sampling some of Chile’s signature wines in Central Valley, spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are great times to travel here. That’s because the milder temperature also attracts slightly smaller crowds.For context, Santiago’s average monthly temperature is around 15-20°C outside the hottest summer months.
But despite being the time when most tourists flock to the region, summer is still a beautiful time to travel here — the peak summer months run from December to February.
WEATHER CHART:
- Excellent
- Good
- Poor
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Enquire OnlineYour Luxury Accommodation Options in Central Chile
Wayfairer only partners with hotels that meet our standards for luxury and responsible tourism. Here are some of our favorites in Central Chile:
Hotel AWA
Hotel AWA is an independent family project located in Chile at the entrance to Patagonia, looking on...
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