While residing in a serene saltwater lagoon deep in the vast Atacama Desert, an elusive James’s flamingo submerges its head to stir up crustaceans from the delicate sea of turquoise below. Accompanied by its flock, the bird takes a moment to savour its freshly caught snack before taking flight, effortlessly gliding through the air against a backdrop of snow-capped volcanoes.
No matter what time of year you visit Chile, you’re bound to enjoy special moments just like this. The Latin American country is a nature and scenery lover’s paradise. Home to stunning landscapes, including the flamingo-populated salt lakes, the country offers the perfect overview of the Andes Mountains and is a treasure trove of natural wonders throughout the year.
A magical land of geological formations and diverse wildlife – the Atacama Desert
The Atacama can be visited 12 months a year, but in the dry season (May to September), you can especially enjoy its awe-inspiring scenery. Atacama is the driest desert in the world. So, you’re able to comfortably explore wind-sculpted canyons and active volcanoes without ever worrying about getting wet!
The wildlife here ranges from vicuñas to vizcachas and culpeo foxes.
Perhaps the most sought-after species among wildlife enthusiasts, though, is the afore mentioned flamingo. Three variations – Andean, Chilean and James’s – each reside in areas like Laguna Chaxa, choosing their habitat based on factors like seasonal food availability. As a result of the red carotenoid pigments in their diets, they receive their signature pink hue.
When dusk falls and the nocturnal nightlife comes out to play, look up towards the inky black sky, where a sea full of constellations stare right back at you. Stargazing is the perfect way to end your time here, observing the universe through the naked eye or even a high-powered telescope.
From iconic islands to wonderful winelands and lovely lakes – excellent additions for your Chilean adventure
Hopping on over to Rapa Nui (Easter Island) introduces you to the region’s iconic Moai statues. Ranging in height of up to 40ft tall and weighing in at more than 50 tonnes, the monolithic figures are an extraordinary sight to behold. Whereas in the Winelands, a vineyard is a fantastic gateway to the wonders of Chilean gastronomy, allowing you to pair traditional dishes – such as cazuela – with a fragrant tipple. Heading south to the Lake District continues your adventure towards pristine waterfalls and virgin forests. Petrohué is the pick of the bunch, best visited between October and April, with the backdrop of Osorno Volcano.
A vast region home to spectacular nature and rare wildlife – the Chilean Patagonia
October to April is also ideal for hiking in Torres del Paine, Patagonia. Gaze into the glass-like reflection of an icy lake or trickling stream, taking in the radiant reds and yellows of the trees which stare right back at you, with towering peaks looming overhead from a distance.
If you trek the Hunter’s Trail here, you may even be fortunate enough to spot pumas. The elusive big cat roams the Patagonian steppe in search of guanacos – so have your binoculars at the ready!
Puma tracking requires plenty of patience and a little bit of luck, but there are some things to keep in mind to boost your chances. The predators are often most active at dusk, night, and dawn, so waking up early may lead to a sighting. Knowing where guanacos are can also help aid your cause, as the camelids produce a loud warning sound when they feel threatened. Ultimately, following the instructions of your professional guide is best for spotting them.
While exploring, look out across the awe-inspiring glaciers and rugged plains across the Andes Mountains. As you press on higher up, you’ll immerse yourself in these stunning surroundings and potentially come across various mammals with thick, woolly fur before returning.
A lesser-visited and populated area of untamed splendour – Aysén
To get the full picture of Patagonia, however, add Aysén to your ever-growing bucket list of places to visit in the country. This lesser-visited subregion provides some of the wildest parts of Patagonia. The scenery along the Carretera Austral is stunning, cutting through the various glaciers that line the region. If you’re really looking to explore, a self-drive itinerary is perfect as the roads are easy to navigate, and you can go for hours without seeing another person!
Exploring the southern wilds between staggering peaks and turquoise fjords – Australis Cruises
Not only are Patagonia’s lands breathtaking, but so are the fjords towards the south.
By embarking on an Australis Cruise in Southern Patagonia from the end of November to the beginning of March, you get to explore the wilds of the region and reach places only accessible via ship. The country enjoys its summer during this period, bringing with it longer days and better weather so that you have more time to explore the extraordinary sights. Pristine sub-polar forestry, azure glaciers and rugged snow-capped mountains all seem to shine in the glowing sun from high up above.
Exploring the remote terrain on foot gives you a closer look at the abundant wildlife, too, including penguins, elephant seals and an amazing array of birdlife. You can also jump on a zodiac cruise and visit uninhabited islands home to some of the world’s rarest species.
So, whether it’s exploring the Atacama Desert’s otherworldly landscapes or observing Patagonia’s abundant wildlife, Chile is a captivating place that has something for everyone.
Ready to experience Chile?
At Rainbow, our Latin America Travel Specialists live and breathe their target destinations, many having deeply immersed themselves there for numerous years. If you’re inspired to embark on an adventurous holiday to Chile, call Rainbow Tours on 02045 872 146.
