Easter Island

Dear reader,
To Latitud 90, travelling is a learning experience
that transforms people; it is because of this that we
developed this information guide about inspiring
Chile, to give you the chance to encounter the places,
people and traditions in most encompassing and
comfortable way, while always maintaining care for
the environment.
Chile offers a lot do and this catalogue serves as a
guide to inform you about exciting, adventurous,
unique, cultural and entertaining activities to do
around this beautiful country, to show the most
diverse and unique Chile, its contrasts, the fascinating
and it’s remoteness.
Due to the fact that Chile is a country known for its long
coastline of approximately 4300 km, there are some
extremely varying climates, landscapes, cultures and
natures to explore in the country and very different
geographical parts of the country; North, Center,
South, Patagonia and Islands.
Furthermore, there is also Wine Routes all around the
country, plus a small chapter about Chilean festivities.
Moreover, you will find the most important general
information about Chile, and tips for travellers to
make your visit
Please enjoy reading further and get inspired with this
beautiful country…
The Great North
The far north of Chile shares the border with Peru and
Bolivia, and it’s known for being the driest desert in
the world.
Covering an area of 181.300 square kilometers, the
Atacama Desert enclose to the East by the main
chain of the Andes Mountain, while to the west lies
a secondary mountain range called Cordillera de la
Costa, this is a natural wall between the central part of
the continent and the Pacific Ocean; large Volcanoes
dominate the landscape some of them have been
inactive since many years while some still present
volcanic activity.
The Atacama Desert and surroundings are very
interesting and amazing; diverse landscapes and
a world of activities are presented to the desert
travelers. San Pedro de Atacama is the most known
village, located at 2.438 km above the sea level, in
one of the many oases in the Atacama Desert; the
population contains about 2.500 inhabitants and is
considered as the archeological capital of Chile due to
its extreme location, and the large number of ruins of
their previous civilizations.
Besides San Pedro de Atacama, the great north is
the location where La Fiesta de la Tirana takes place,
one of the most colorful, attractive and beautiful
religious celebration in the world; this is a celebration
that combines music, dance and religion in a sacred
ceremony between July 12th and 17th, to pray and to
celebrate La Virgen del Carmen (Del Carmen Virgin),
mother of the desert. Takes place in the small village
of La Tirana, multiple dance groups dress up with
beautiful hand made customs that can be admire
dancing around the streets of the village. Every year
this celebration calls thousands of visitors, Chilean
and foreigners.
Lauca National Park
Located in Chile’s far north, in the Andean range
part of the Atacama Desert. This Global Biosphere
Reserve has a dry climate with well-defined day and
night thermal variations. This park is well-known for
being home to a great wealth of flora and fauna, its
highly interesting culture and history, and sites of
uncultivated beauty.
Trekking on the in-active Parinacota volcano
The Parinacota volcano is probably one of tourists’
favourite mountains in the north of Chile. It is not
only its height that makes it so interesting, but also its
stark beauty that takes your breath away. In contrast
to the dirt road ascents of most volcanoes in the
north of Chile, the Parinacota offers for a change a
glacier-covered summit and therefore an ascent with
crampons and ice axe. Trekking on this volcano is
definitely an amazing experience.
Birdwatching
With more than 130 different bird species living in this
park, Lauca is one of the best places for bird watching Moon Valley (Valle de la Luna):
This valley has a breathtaking desert landscape, which
in Chile.
is the result of centuries of winds and floods on the
sand and stone of the region. The large sand dunes
Chungará Lake
The most spectacular feature in Lauca is the beautiful and stone formations mimic the surface of the moon,
Lago Chungará, one of the world’s highest lakes. This giving the region its name, which translates to ´Valley
lake counts with unique fauna, such as wonderful of the Moon´. There are also dry lakes where the
flamingos and parinas, with a shinning rose colored in composition of salt makes a white covering layer of
its feathers, and wild ducks. Its green waters reflects the area. The valley was declared a Nature Sanctuary
the summit of the impressive parinacota volcano, in 1982 for its great natural beauty and strange lunar
which has a huge glacier which starts at its 5200 landscape. This area is perfect for hikes, bike tours
meters of height and ends in an impotent crater, of and visits by busses or vans.
300 meters wide.
Death Valley (Valle de la Muerte)
The incredible death-valley with its spectacular
sand dunes is located to the east of San Pedro. It is
a desolate place, where forms and strange colors
presage a place, which is devoid of life. To get to this
mountainous and sandy valley you have to go through
the Cordillera de la Sal where natural sculptures can
be admired. Also this valley is excellent for hiking and
sightseeing.
El Tatio Geysers del Altiplano
One of the most fascinating is visiting the Tatio Geysers
up in the Andes. These geysers are about a twohour drive from San Pedro and are most active right
around sunrise. These geysers are created by a huge
geothermal field of hot mineral water beneath the
surface of the earth that is highly pressurized by the
movement of tectonic plates beneath the mountains.
Sandboarding
Besides that the Death Valley is a spectacular place to
visit, it is also the perfect place for sandboarding. It is
a marvelous location and some of the popular places
are the dunes at the end of the valley. The dunes have
an inclination of 40 to 150 meters slope length.
Stargazing
Because of its high altitude, nearly non-existent cloud
cover, dry air, and lack of light pollution and radio
interference from the very widely spaced cities, this
desert is one of the best places in the world to conduct
astronomical observations. Several Astronomic
centers are located near San Pedro de Atacama and
visitors can be part of a unique experience watching
the stars in these centers or in the middle of the
desert.
Note: Be aware of the fact that the temperature
in this valley’s can be very low in the night so be
Termas de Puritama (Puritama Thermal Springs)
The thermal springs are located near San Pedro and it prepared and bring some warm clothe to put on.
consists of a series of eight large pools of water with
a temperature of 33.5º C (92º F). Wooden walkways
connect the pools and the water at Puritama is
exceptional, in that it springs forth from the driest
desert in the world.
San Pedro is located 1.670 kms north from Santiago
de Chile. To get there, you will first have to reach to
Calama, the nearest airport.
San Pedro is about an hour and a half away from
Calama and is connected by an excellent highway and
a surprising landscape.
Calama boasts an airport. Through LAN Airlines
there are five daily flights from Santiago during
the weekdays. Also Sky Airlines often boards from
Santiago to Calama.
Where to Stay in Atacama?
Where to Eat?
Alto Atacama 5* (All Inclusive)
Tierra Atacama 5* (All Inclusive)
Awasi 5* (All Inclusive)
Explora Atacama Larache 5* (All Inclusive)
Altiplánico (B&B)
Casa Atacama (B&B)
Kimal (B&B)
Adobe: Serve both national & international food
La Estaka: Serve Chilean and vegetarian food
Blanco: Serve International food
The Small North
The southern part of the Atacama Desert it’s call Small
Desert or Norte Chico in Spanish, it’s the connection
between the northern part of Chile and the central
regions.
In this particular part of the Atacama Desert a really
amazing phenomenon happens, the flowered desert,
this is a climate phenomenon that consist in the
blossoming of a wide variety of flowers between the
month of September and November, occurs because
of an unusual level of rainfall reach the seeds and
bulbs that have been in a latent or dormant state and
causes them to germinate and flower in early spring.
It is accompanied by the proliferation of insects, birds
and small species of lizard.
The flowering desert is a popular tourist attraction
with visitors from all over the world who travel
to Chile to experience how the driest desert in
the world transforms into a multicolored garden.
This phenomenon is linked to weather conditions,
therefore is not certain to occur every year.
The Small North is also home of the Elqui Valley, known
worldwide for its clear ski and privileged weather, its
located at the east of La Serena City, its the perfect
destination for those looking to connect with nature
and enjoy a different kind of vacation experience.
Valle del Elqui
There are many ways to experience this destination,
and a visit to the pisco plants is a good place to start.
Tours offer a great opportunity to learn about the
production process, taste this grape distillate and shop.
Valle del Elqui has attracted a number of people who
are looking to live far from the hectic pace of city life.
Given that this place is a source of healing energies,
it’s easy to find accommodations that offer alternative
therapies, including reiki, meditation and massages.
The beautiful landscapes of the nearby Cochiguaz
If you’re a fan of adventure sports, try the local Valley are home to a center that focuses on mysticism
trekking routes, horseback riding excursions and and alternative therapies.
paths for bike and Jeep tours.
To complete this journey of the senses, visit the
Vicuña and Pisco Elqui are surrounded by vineyards Mamalluca Astronomy Center. The pure Valle del
and have excellent restaurants and “picadas” (small Elqui air, and the desert air also allows for some
local restaurants), which serve everything from spectacular stargazing opportunities, with many
roasted goat to organic cuisine. Ask the locals for astronomical centers just a few miles from La Serena
recommendations, especially when it comes to and Coquimbo cities.
marmalades, empanadas, pan amasado (kneaded
bread) and manjar.
La Serena
This Chile’s second oldest city, founded by Pedro de
Valdivia in 1543. The city is well known for its pleasant
year-round climate, its pure air, its great scenery, its
beautiful white beaches and superb seafood.
Water activities
Other popular water activities besides swimming
include sailing, surfing and windsurfing. Playa
Totoralillo (one of the beaches) is rated highly for its
surf breaks and windsurfing potential.
The beaches
A swathe of wide sandy beaches stretches over the
coast of La Serena. There are so many beaches that
you could visit a different beach every day for a twoweek vacation. Even though strong rip currents make
some unsuitable for swimming, there is plenty of
choice.
Stargazing
The clear air of this region has made it a hotspot for
observatories like La Campana, Cerro Tololo, La Silla
and Cerro Mamalluca. This centera are visitable and
offer guided tours an astronomy lessons.
Flowered Desert
You can visit the flowered desert taking a guides tour
The archeological museum
from La Serena, the place It’s about 2 and a half hour
The crescent-shaped archaeological museum makes from the city, between the town of Vallenar and the
an ambitious attempt to corral Chile’s pre-Columbian city of Copiapo.
past. Its highlights include Atacameña mummies,
a hefty 2.5m-high moai (large anthropomorphic
statues) from Easter Island and interesting Diaguita
artifacts that include a dinghy made from sea-lion
hide.
LAN Airlines flies five times Sun-Fri and four times on
Saturday from Santiago de Chile to La Serena. Flight
duration is 1 hour. Sky Airlines flies three times daily
from Santiago.
Buses leave several times every hour from Santiago to
La Serena. The trip takes 7 - 8 hours.
Where to Stay?
Enjoy Coquimbo 5* (All Inclusive)
Francisco de Aguirre 4* (B&B)
Central Chile is the cultural nucleus of the country.
All of Chile’s largest cities are located here, as are
most of its universities and industries, its vineyards,
finest agricultural lands, colonial and early republican
architecture.
It’s capital, Santiago, is the point of entry for nearly
all international arrivals. This modern city is situated
closely to several spectacular beach cities which are
famous touristic spots. Here follows an informative
description of Chile’s capital and two beautiful beach
cities that are also part of the central region.
American, and incredibly cheap
Iglesia de San Fransico
The Church of San Francisco, built between 1586 and
1628, is the oldest standing building in Santiago, having
miraculously survived three devastating earthquakes.
The highlights are the museum and the convent, the
latter with its idyllic patio planted with flora brought
from destinations as near as the south of Chile and as
far away as the Canary Islands.
Santiago
foot) statue of the Virgin Mary, erected here in the
1930s. The park extends into the cerro’s skirts, and
Santiago, the capital of Chile, is the fifth largest city also encompasses the National Zoo and two pretty
in South-America. It is one of the most modern cities public pools, both excellent options for families.
of the continent, home to approximately 6 million
inhabitants with over a third of all Chileans. The Museo de Bellas Artes
country is known for its attractive sites, its ski centers, This museum is home to one of the world’s largest
the beautiful beaches, its vineyards and many more. collections of paintings, sculptures and tapestries
of renowned artist Jean Lucrat. The museum was
established in 1880, making it the oldest in SouthAmerica.
Cerro San Cristobal (mountain)
The best sweeping views over Santiago are from the
peaks and viewpoints of the Parque Metropolitano, Metropolitan Cathedral and Plaza de Armas
better known as Cerro San Cristóbal. The park Between 1748 and 1775 this impressive temple
is Santiago’s largest green space, but it’s still was built and in 1951 it was declared as a National
decidedly urban. Walking trails, picnic spots, and an Monument. It’s a beautiful and serene building and
amphitheater are all dwarfed by the 22-meter (72- the architectural splendor almost beats its spiritual
Ski
As you might know, Chili is a paradise in the winter
if you love skiing. Less than 40 miles from Santiago
is one of the best places situated for skiing; Valle
Nevado. This mountain of the Andes is home to
many ski fanatics each year and is recommendable to
people who like to ski from each level (basics to highly
significance. The cathedral is situated on the west advanced).
side of the Plaza de Armas.
Barrio Lastarria (Neighborhood)
Mercado Central
This impressive bohemian neighborhood of
Considered one of the most beautiful public buildings cobblestone streets and European architecture has
of its time in terms of scale, use and technological plenty of interesting shops, cozy restaurants and
application. It’s a building with unique architecture entertaining bars. It is a place full of art, independent
and street musicians accompany a plethora of dining design stores and book stores that make the Lastarria
options, where seafood is abundant in this South district a unique place in Santiago.
American food court.
La Vega
Very close to the above described Central Market, ‘La
Vega Market’ is located. Nowhere in Santiago feels
more South American than La Vega. This is Santiago’s
main market, set in a shady part of town next to the
Mapocho River. It is gloriously and chaotically Latin
Viña del Mar
beautiful museum that displays archaeological finds
from Easter Island along with Mapuche silverwork,
This city, which was founded in 1874, is also known anthropomorphic Moche ceramics and old-school
as the Garden City. It has grown into Chile’s most insect cases.
luxurious beach resort town attracting visitors from
all over the world. Since the 1800s, inhabitants of Museo Municipal de Bellas Artes
Santiago have gathered to Vina’s beaches in order to Situated in the neo-Gothic–styled Vergara Palace.
escape the city’s summer heat. Some come for the The museum has an interesting collection of 17th- to
languid tropical atmosphere, its charming character, 19th-century European and Chilean art that includes
its incredible stretches of white beach sand or its works by Murillo, Modigliani, Rubens and Sorolla y
Bastida. Major concerts and the celebrated Festival
tremendous offer of cozy restaurants and bars.
Internacional de la Canción are held in the striking
concrete amphitheater in the grounds.
Go to the beach
If you don’t mind a crowdie place, the beach and the
accompanying boardwalk offer a variety of things Valparaiso
to do. Sunbathing on a stretch of white sand, while
enjoying refreshments and ice cream, is by far out the In 2003 this city was declared a World Heritage Site, due
most popular activity in this city. ‘Las Salinas’ is an to its historical importance, natural beauty, original
example of an incredible beach that is known for the architecture and layout. This is where Chile’s main
calmest water in the area.
harbor is situated and besides it’s gorgeous beach,
Valparaiso is famous for its nightlife. Furthermore,
Enjoy a plate of fresh fish
this principal port has a natural history, fine arts and
Since this city is situated at the coast, there are many maritime museums are justly famed.
astonishing restaurants with delicious fishplates.
3. Visit the museums
La Sebastiana (Pablo Neruda’s House)
- Museo de Arqueología e Historia Francisco Fonck is This four-story home, offering 360 degree views of
the city, is highlighted by “the jar of smoke,” a round,
post-modern fireplace designed by Neruda (famous
Chilean poet) himself. Even the people who don’t
know much about him, tend to say that it was an
amazing experience and definitely a visit worth.
Muelle Prat (Prat Wharf)
This place is situated at the foot of Plaza Sotomayor,
the main square of Valparaíso. Muelle Prat is the only
wharf where the public can closely watch the loading
and unloading of the ships from a safe distance. You
will find a typical handicrafts market at this wharf and
boat trips around the harbor can also be taken from
here.
Iglesia La Matriz del Salvador church
The first stone was put in 1559 and is situated in
the middle of the city. It receives a big affluence of
tourists for its historical interest. The church was in
construction five times, because it had to survive
the sequences of pirates, tempests and earthquakes.
The last reconstruction was in 1837. In 1971 it was
declared historical monument and now it is part of
the Humanity Heritage Area.
To Santiago:
To Viña del Mar & Valparaíso:
There are many airline companies departing from
various airports around the world with a direct
flight connection. These are the airline companies
that reach Santiago (SCL) airport: PAL, Aerolíneas
Argentinas, Aeromexico Aerovías de México, Air
Canada, American Airlines, Air France – KLM, Avianca
Aerovías del continente americano, Copa Compañía
panameña de aviación, Delta Airlines , Gol, Iberia,
LAN, SKY, TACA, TAM and Qantas.
Since the roads can be congested, a bus from Santiago
is most convenient. The ride from the University of
Santiago station takes an hour and a half, and you
arrive in Viña, a twenty-minute walk from the beach.
To the Ski Resorts:
There are many transfers from different parts of
Santiago, really early in the morning, it depends to
wich resort you go. The best way is booking a transfer
And these are the most important destinations in and out with the resort you are going.
they depart from: New York, Los Angeles, Miami,
Mexico City, La Habana, Caracas, Quito, Lima, La Paz,
Montevideo, Buenos Aires, Sao Paulo, Río de Janeiro,
Madrid, Frankfurt, Sydney, Auckland.
Where to Stay in Santiago?
Where to Stay in Valaparaiso?
Grand Hyatt 5*
Noi Hotel 5*
W Hotel Santiago 5*
Atton Hotels 4*
Le Reve (Boutique)
Palacio Astoreca (Boutique)
Domus Mare (Boutique)
Grad Hotel Gervasoni (Boutique)
Where to Eat in Santiago?
Café Turri: Bohemian cafe & restaurant
Portofino: Sea food
El Galeón: Sea food
Confitería Torres: Typical and classic chilean food
CueroVaca: Steak house
El Apero: Chilean food
La Casa Vieja: Chilean food
Perla del Pacífico: Sea food
Where to Eat in Valparaiso?
Where to Stay in Viña del Mar?
Sheratton Miramar 5* (All Inclusive)
Domus Mare (Boutique)
Casa Doca (Boutique)
Lakes & Volcanoes
The Chilean Lake District is a zone in Southern Chile
defined by its many lakes in the Andean foothills. It’s
the expression of nature in its inimitable beauty and
surprising exuberance.
Among volcanic cataclysms, iceberg sculptures,
rain and snow, torrential rivers, natural hot springs,
temperate rain forests and crystal clear lakes, we
find a landscape in movement, one that is constantly
modeled and changing before our eyes.
Pucon
Pucón is a small touristy town in the middle of the
southern Lake District of Chile. The unrivaled location
by the beautiful lake Villarrica and imposing Villarrica
volcano makes it one of the most popular tourist
attractions in Chile. The village is used as a base for
all excursions that are being organized nearby. For
many years, Pucón was an exclusive place to visit,
frequented by high society and foreign fishers, artists
and intellectuals. It still maintains a little of this ‘upper
class’ stigma to it for Chileans, though there are now
many hostels and activities aimed at backpackers.
The town
Most of the activities that are exciting in Pucon are
adventurous and outside the city. Inside the town
itself you can head down to the lakeside beach and
visit the main square with a miniature stream train
that goes around it. Also there is a small wharf (Muelle
Municipal La Poza) with some benches in front in
order to admire the lake or the volcano.
Climbing the volcano:
The biggest attraction in Pucon is climbing the
Villarrica volcano which you can climb up and down
in a day.
Mapuche Museum
A small, private museum that houses an array of
Mapuche artifacts, including musical instruments,
masks, rock sculptures, pipes, and other items
representative of Mapuche culture and history.
Volcanic Caves (Spelunking)
After a short hike uphill, you’ll find this cave halfway
up Volcán Villarrica, right next to a very basic visitor
center. The place first opened up in 1968 as a cave for
spelunkers to explore, but eventually tourism proved
more lucrative. A short tour takes you deep into the
electrically illuminated cave via wooden walkways that
bring you close to the crystallized basalt formations.
Natural Spa & Wellness
Chile is volcano country, and around Pucón are
numerous natural hot springs. ‘Termas Geométricas’
is one of the best. Seventeen natural hot-spring pools,
many of them secluded, dot the dense native forest.
Each thermal bath has its own private bathrooms,
lockers, and deck.
Outdoor sports
The village and its surroundings is a very popular spot
for outdoor sports. You can easily spend the whole
week enjoying the following activities: horse riding,
quad driving, mountain biking, skiing (in the winter),
canoeing, fly fishing and rafting.
Huerquehue National Park
This park is situated 33 km from Pucon. It´s a beautiful,
pre-Andean park with an area of 12,500 hectares,
characterized by its mountainous geography and
crystalline lakes and lagoons. Easily accessible in the
summer, this park offers the visitor a wide range of
recreational options, from simply admiring nature
to camping and sport activities. There are some
incredible views from the park, like the Pucon river
to the Villarrica volcano. If you are lucky enough, you
may even catch a glimpse of the majestic condor.
Puerto Montt
Puerto Montt is the capital of the Lake District. It was
founded in 1853 by Vicente Pérez Rosales. Its present
name was given in honour of the President at that time,
Manuel Montt. The inhabitants of the place worked
mainly on larch explotation and currently Puerto
Montt has about 175.000 inhabitants. Because of
its strategic position this city constitutes the starting
point to move to the tourist-attractive places in the
south in general. In addition, the port links it to the
most southern cities, and its International Airport “El
Tepual” with the most important air terminals in the
country.
Lahuen Nadi Park
This forest is well-known because of the oldest trees
in the world. This park is home of the second longest
living plant on earth; The Alerce. It’s is an indigenous
conifer that can live several thousand years and
thrives in moist climates. It is a great spot to hike and
see the old protected species of Pine.
Visit Puerto Varas
Resting on the shore, Puerto Varas is one of the
most emblematic cities in Chile and one of the most
beautiful ones on Lake Llanquihue. Just 20 kilometers
away from Puerto Montt, Puerto Varas gathers the
poetry of its rosebushes and the typical regional flora
with the streets that end at its magical waterfront.
Furthermore, the local casino in Puerto Varas is one
of the most beautiful ones of Chile.
Osorno volcano
This volcano is located 60 kilometers northeast of
Puerto Varas and has a height of 2652 meters. Its
great height makes it visible throughout the whole
province of Osorno. Although considered one of the
most active (11 recorded eruptions) of the Andean
volcanoes Orsono hasn’t erupted since 1869. The
upper slopes are covered with glaciers and it is
continually snow covered. This volcano is also the
excellent spot for skiing.
Park Vicente Pérez Rosales
This national park covers about 2,530 km2 and is
almost entirely situated in the Andes mountain chain.
The famous “Petrohué Waterfalls” and the lake, “Todo
los Santos” are part of this wonderful national park.
It’s situated 50 kms away from Puerto Varas.
To Pucon:
The easiest way to get to Pucon is via Temuco Airport.
From Temuco airport there are multiple busses that
go straight to Pucon. Furthermore, there are also
busses and planes leaving from Santiago to Pucon.
To Puerto Montt:
Via International Airport “El Tepual” with the most
important air terminals in the country.
Where to Stay on the Lake District?
Huilo Huilo Natural Reserve 5* (All Inclusive)
Cumbres Puerto varas 5* (All Inclusive)
The Cliffs Preserve 5* (All Inclusive)
Patagonico Hotel 5*
Antumalal Hotel (Boutique)
2 Lagos Lodge (Boutique)
The Chilean Patagonia offers all the dramatic
landscape one would expect from the world’s
ultimate land’s end. Here the South American
continent falls away in a dazzling explosion of
islands, glaciers, icebergs and mountains. It is truly
one of Mother Nature’s grand finales.
it’s just you and the wild nature that serves as a
backdrop to such diverse activities as fly-fishing,
trekking, cycling, mountain climbing, rafting,
kayaking and horseback riding.
Maggiorino Borgatello Museum
This museum was constructed in 1893 by the Salesian
missionaries. It is maintained today through voluntary
contributions. The museum has exhibits the region’s
history, flora and fauna, indigenous tribes, mineralogy,
and the work of the missionaries.
Punta Arenas
live more than a thousand sea lions, cormorants,
skuas, among others.
Punta Arenas, 3hrs20min by Air from Santiago, is the
capital of Magallanes province which comprehends
from Cordillera del Paine on the north to Cape Horn
on the south. Founded in 1848, Punta Arenas became
the urban, commercial, cultural and social center
that spread all over Magallanes. Punta Arenas is the
farthest south continental city in the world
Fitz Roy Farm Ranch
This ranch is located 95 kms northwest from Punta
Arenas on Isla Riesco Coast which is reachable by a 5
min ferry ride. During this ride you can enjoy the sight
to the fiords, Otway and Skyring gulfs and the end of
the Andes mountain range.
Magdalena Island and Marta Island
Located 25 miles north of Punta Arenas, in the middle
of the Strait of Magellan, Magdalena Island is a natural
reserve of Magellan penguins, cormorants, and other
birds which peacefully coexist with sea-lions. Between
October and March they occupy almost the entire
island, and are a unique sight. On nearby Marta Island
Fenton Lookout Hill
Mount Fenton, located just 9 kilometers west of Punta
Arenas offers during spring and summer seasons
the possibility to perform entertaining walks in a
marvelous environment of native forest.
Salesian Museum
This museum belongs to the Salesiano Monsenor
Fagnano school of Puerto Natales. It has a collection
of embalmed animals arranged in sets to show the
different animals of Patagonia. The museum’s funder,
Antonio Romanato, was a prominate curate famous
for his taxidermy that expanded the scope of the
museum.
Nao Victoria Museum
The Nao Victoria Museum is an interactive proposal
that allows visitors to relive the history of the great
navigators and explorers of our region (Magallanes,
Williams and Shackleton to date) Their ships are
rebuilt with historical certainty, all ships also feature,
copies of hardware, sailing rig and even some life-size
mannequins as well as clothing and weapons of the
age.
Puerto Natales
historical photographs of the town’s development.
Puerto Natales is a small town that is situated
approximately 250 km from Punta Arenas. The town
was founded in 1911. Even though it’s a small town,
there is a lot to do in the town and its surroundings.
La Cueva del Milodon (Spelunking)
One of the main atractions is La Cueva del Milodón
which is situated 24 kms north from Puerto Natales.
It’s a cave which is 200 meters deep, 80 meters wide
and holds a replica of the animal whose remains were
found by Captain Eberhard.
Torres del Paine
Torres del Paine is a national park in the Extreme South
region of Patagonian Chile and features mountains,
lakes and glaciers. The centerpieces of the park are
the three Towers of Paine, three spectacular granite
peaks shaped by the forces of glacial ice. The National
Park covers 181.000 hectares is perfect for:
Trekking: Torres del Paine is one of the world’s
most famous trekking destinations. You can see
snow covered mountains, trek on glaciers, walk
through beautiful valleys, see waterfalls, and have
lunch by crystal-blue lakes all in one day. The park
is famous for its two amazing trekking circuits: the
‘W’ and the ‘Circuit’.
Sailing and Kayaking: In this national park is a great
way to see some of the less accessible parts of this
natural reserve as you can take in the wilder, and
more secluded, areas which aren’t accessible by
trekking. This park is also ideal for fly fishing, climbing
and horseback riding.
Historical Museum
Puerto Natales’ museum has natural history items
(mostly stuffed animals), archaeological artefacts
such as stone and whalebone arrowheads and spear
points, plus a Yahgan canoe, Tehuelche bolas and
San Rafael Glacier
The San Rafael Glacier is one of the major outlet
glaciers of the Northern Patagonian Ice Field in
southern Chile and is the tidewater glacier nearest
the equator. It calves into the Laguna San Rafael and
is contained within Laguna San Rafael National Park.
Watersports at the Futaleufu river
This river is known for its deep blue waters created
by glacier till deposited in the river, and for its white
water currents, which attract rafters and kayakers
from around the world. This river is perfect if you like
watersports and will definitely entertain you as in no
other river can.
By air: Sky Airline and LAN Airlines have several
daily flight alternatives to Carlos Ibañez del Campo
Airport, located 22 km north of the city of Punta
Arenas. The arrival time is about 3 to 5 hours from
Santiago, depending on whether direct or scales. At
the airport, transfers and taxi services will bring you
to the city.
By land: The region has no direct land access
connecting the region with the rest of the country,
so it must be done through Argentina. The border,
Southern Integration, is 196 kilometers from Punta
Arenas, connecting through the CH route 255, then
take Route 9 south.
Where to Stay in Punta Arenas?
Plaza Hotel 4*
José Nogueira Hotel 4*
Cabo de Hornos Hotel 4*
Where to Eat in Punta Arenas?
La Tasca: Serve typical patagonian meals
Sotito’s: Typical patagonian meals & bar
Where to stay in Puerto Natales?
The Singular 5* (All Inclusive)
Remota 5* (All Inclusive)
If Patagonia (Boutique)
Costa Australis 4*
Indigo (Boutique)
Altiplánico Sur 4*
Where to Stay in Torres del Paine National Park?
Hoteria Las Torres 5* (All Inclusive)
Lago Grey 5* (All Inclusive)
Tierra Patagonia 5* (All Inclusive)
Awasi Patagonia 5* (All Inclusive)
Explora Patagonia 5* (All Inclusive)
Patagonia Camp 5* (All Inclusive)
Río Serrano 5* (All Inclusive)
Chile is a country with many islands. However, the
most popular, spectacular and beautiful island are
Easter Island, Chiloé Island and the Robinson Crusoe
Island. These impressive islands offer a lot to do and
are definitely worth a visit!
Easter Island
This island is one of the most isolated islands in the
world. It is situated approximately 2.300 miles from
the Chilean coast and is most famous for its mysterious
giant stone statues, called Moai. About 1.000 Moai
are scattered around this Polynesian island. They were
carved out of volcanic rock and transported all over
the island. Besides these statues, the island is also
known for its impressive 3 volcanic craters, its unique
lava creations, its brilliant blue water, the incredible
beach and its friendly inhabitants, named Rapanui.
Horseback riding
Since the island has more horses than people on the
island, there is plenty of opportunity to go horseback
riding. A popular trip is a short ride to the highest point
of the island for an impressive 360-degree panorama
view of the Pacific.
Enjoy the beach
Even though Easter Island has only one sandy beach,
it is a very beautiful and special one. The water is
brilliantly blue and has the perfect temperature for a
quick dip or a full day of swimming. The beach, named
´Anakena Beach´, is situated on the north side of the
island and is perfect for sunbathing.
Moais
People come to the island primarily for the Moai.
These incredible monolithic statues have a very Tapati Festival
interesting and mysterious story and will definitely This festival is a celebration of local customs and
traditional sport. It is held for two weeks every
impress you.
February and consists of horse racing, spear throwing,
statue carving, singing and dancing. Some of these
Hiking
Easter Island is perfect if you love to hike. There are events are open to the public during this festival and
beautiful farm roads and walking paths that cross normally attract a lot of visitors.
the island offering dozens of routes for hikes that
vary from a walk in the park to sweaty slow-motion Spelunking
This beautiful island is also known for its numerous
marathons.
caves that are best explored with the assistance of a
local guide. They aren’t huge, but offer spectacular
archeological intrigue and stunning scenery.
Diving and Snorkeling
Numerous beautiful diving and snorkeling trips are
being organized around the island. The visibility
around the island is incredible and many divers daily
make use of this wonderful opportunity.
Surfing
The island with its beautiful wavy water gives guests
visiting the island the opportunity to surf at several
popular spots around the island.
Stargazing
Due to the fact that the island is isolated far away
from its neighbors, this island is perfect for stargazing
as long as the tropical cloud doesn’t get too thick.
Only one airline, LAN Airlines, flies to Easter Island.
Flights originate from Lima (Peru), Santiago (Chile) and
Papeete (Tahiti) and take about 5 hours. The airline
schedule is seasonal, with more flights scheduled
during the week in the austral Summer (DecemberFebruary).
Cruise ships do visit Easter Island, but usually stop
only for a few hours, which is not enough time to get
even a slight feel for the place.
Private sailboats occasionally visit the island, but
special permission to land is required.
Where to Stay in Easter Island?
Hare Noi 5* (All Inclusive)
Hangaroa 5* (All Inclusive)
Taha Tai 4*
Iorana 4*
Chiloe Island
Chepu, 35 km south-west of Ancud, is a great way to
peacefully navigate the rivers and observe the wildlife.
Chiloé Island, an archipelago, is the largest island of
Chile and the second-largest island in South America
after Tierra del Fuego (partly Chilean and partly
Argentinian). In part because of its physical isolation
from the rest of Chile, Chiloé has a very special
architecture and local culture. The Spanish who
arrived in the 16th century, and Jesuit missionaries
who followed, constructed hundreds of unique
wooden churches in an attempt to bring Christianity
to the archipelago. The result was a mix of Catholicism
and indigenous Chilean beliefs. Also on this island
there is a lot to see and do.
Fuerte San Antonio
This is the last Spanish foothold in Chile which fell
to local forces in 1826. There’s not much left but a
well-preserved wall, but the views and historical
significance are impressive. The juxtaposition of the
cannons with the sea and beyond will make a great
picture. A small path above the main area will bring
you to even better vantage points. Furthermore,
there’s a somewhat secluded beach, Playa Gruesa,
behind the north wall.
The Regional Museum Ancud
It is a small, but impressive museum with a collection
Chiloe National Park
This national park is located in the western coast of of artifacts and exhibits, which weave together the
the island in the region of the lakes. It has 43.057 islands’ history from the indigenous past through the
hectares of extension and it´s an important refuge for arrival of the Europeans and the 1960 earthquake.
forestall species. It has an impressive geography with
mountain that are over 800 meters high, and multiple Quinchao Island
rivers and lakes. Furthermore, it’s ideal for hiking, Quinchao island is located five minutes on a ferry (200
horseback riding, flora and fauna contemplation and meters) from Dalcahue. It’s one of Chiloé’s most visited
and largest islands and a ferry goes every 10 minutes.
photography.
The Island of Quinchao is a mosaic of grassland hills
with small towns spread out among them.
The wooden churches
The simple and elegant wooden churches of Chiloé
rival the beauty of any European cathedral. Chiloé
Island is famous for these churches, with more than
50 structures surviving. 16 of these were named as
World Heritage Sites in December 2000, preserving
the island’s unique culture and history.
Feria Artesanal (Market)
Even though this market seems to offer the same
wooden trinkets as every fair in Chile, the main hall
also has a nice selection of typical Chilean woolen
socks, scarves, hats, jackets, etc. some of which may
serve you well if you haven’t prepared for Chiloé’s
weather. There’s also some seafood and this is the
Kayaking
Kayaking in the wetlands of the Dead Tree Valley, in place in town to stock up on the island’s famed liquors.
There are daily flights from Santiago to Puerto Montt.
Shuttles and ferries run between El Tepual airport
(Puerto Montt) and Ancud and Castro, which are
located 82km from one another.
Where to Satay in Chiloe?
Refugia Hotel 5* (All Inclusive)
Parque Quilquico (All Inclusive)
Palafito 1326 (Boutique)
Robinson Crusoe Island
Robinson Crusoe Island is the main island of the Juan
Fernández Archipelago and boasts a rich history. Since
its discovery by Spanish navigator Juan Fernández in
1574, it became an icon among sailors and a place of
refuge for corsairs and pirates, who would use this
piece of paradise to stock up on supplies. There is an
interesting development of the flora and fauna of the
island and boasts a lot of activities to do and beautiful
places to visit.
Diving and snorkelling
Robinson Crusoe’s marine ecosystem is quite nearly
as unique as its terrestrial ecosystem, and every bit
as beautiful. Excellent visibility, steep sea cliffs, vast
schools of endemic fish species, and abundant spiny
lobsters attract connoisseurs to this little-known dive
paradise.
Horseback riding
The island has a very steep and rocky terrain with
beautiful sights. However, it’s perfect for horseback
riding because all the horses and mules on the island
are stronger and can handle this type of terrain.
Various excursions will take to all parts of the island.
Fishing
This island is the perfect place for fishing. Species
like Breca, Vidriola and Pampanitos are easy to see
and many different fishing spots are popular on the
island. Furthermore, it is quite an experience to do
this between all the local fishermen of the island.
Visit to the town of San Juan Bautista
This village has about 600 people and it has several key
points of historical, natural and cultural interests, such
as the sectors (that in February 2010 were affected
by the Tsunami), the new square implemented by the
municipality, the cemetery, the patriots caves, the
area impacted by bullets of the battle of the Dresden
and Santa Barbara’s fort, national monument that
dates back to the 18th century. It is also very popular
to visit goldsmiths of black coral and craftsmen who
work the leather of fish.
Trekking
Besides visiting different spectacular view-points
while horseback riding, it is also very popular to
hike/trek on the island. Exciting hikes to view-points
such as the ‘Sal si Puedes’ view point, the Centinela
view point and the Selkirk view point is very special.
Furthermore, native forests with unique flora and
fauna can be encountered during a hike.
There are various options to travel from Santiago to
the island. This can be done via private companies,
which are quite expensive, or by charter flights with
two different companies. However, these don’t depart
very often. Just 2 charter flights per week depart on
Tuesday and Friday with Ata and Lassa
Where to Satay in Robinson Crusoe?
Crusoe Island Lodge 5* (All Inlcusive)
The Wine Routes
Chile has been producing wines since, approximately,
the mid-sixteenth Century and is nowadays recognized
internationally as a major wine producer and exporter.
The country is well-known for its amazing wine
routes. Their tours through the vineyards and tasting
workshops of their luscious wines are the perfect way
to make visitors experience Chile’s wine culture in a
unique way.
The magnificent Wine Routes gives insight into the
great tradition and reputation of Chilean wines, all of
which originate from French stock where some of the
most famous vineyards in the world can be visited.
Today there are 12 wine valleys like, Aconcagua,
Cachapoal, Casablanca, Colchagua, Elqui, among
others, creating a great variety of vines such as,
Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah,
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Riesling, and Cármenère.
Besides San Pedro de Atacama, the great north is
the location where La Fiesta de la Tirana takes place,
one of the most colorful, attractive and beautiful
religious celebration in the world; this is a celebration
that combines music, dance and religion in a sacred
ceremony between July 12th and 17th, to pray and
to celebrate La Virgen del Carmen (Del Carmen
Virgin), mother of the desert. Takes place in the
small village of La Tirana, multiple dance groups
dress up with beautiful hand made customs that
can be admire dancing around the streets of the
village. Every year this celebration calls thousands
of visitors, Chilean and foreigners.
Casas del Bosque | Casablanca Valley
Alta Cima | Lontué Valley
Casa Marin | San Antonio Valley
AltaCima is a family-run boutique winery located in
the Lontué Valley (Province of Curicó in the Maule
Region) approximately 200 kilometers south of
Santiago. They produce Late Harvest (Chardonnay)
and several red and white wines with grapes such
as Carmenere, Syrah, Gewurztraminer, Cabernet
Sauvignon and Merlot. At Alta Cima it’s possible to
enjoy a tour through the enterprise (vineyards, wine
cellars, etc.) including an explanation about the way
everything is being executed, various wine tastings,
visit their farm (chickens, sheep, ducks, etc.) and enjoy
a lunch or dinner.
Viña Casa Marín is a family-owned winery located
in the San Antonio appellation, only 4 kms from the
coast. It was founded by Maria Luz Marín whose goal
was to provide innovation to the local wine industry.
Nowadays she accomplished this by her focus on
premium wines which are a reality with the new
“terroir”. It has been described as one of the “most
daring and innovating” vineyards in the country. Casa
Marin produces Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Sauvignon
Gris, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Noir, and Syrah. The
winery offers many activities for wine tourists, varying
from a short visit to a few days, such as visiting a
museum, horseback riding, kayaking, sport fishing
and much more.
Anakena | Cachapoal Valley
Anakena is situated in the Alto Cachapoal Valley. The
goal of the owners was to offer fine and innovative
wines that characterize the New World.
Today the winery counts with vineyards in different
valleys and strives to always offer excellence and
high quality. Anakena wines are now consumed in
morevthan 50 countries around the world and are
consistently recognized by the most demanding
international wine critics. They received a Sustainability
Certification by Wines of Chile, and their Gran
Reserva line is “carbon neutral”. Anakena produces
Chardonnay, Viognier, Riesling, Pinot Noir, Merlot,
Syrah, Carbernet Sauvignon, Camenere, Sauvignon
Blanc, Carignan, and Malbec. Anakena boasts various
types of tours that can include tastings, horseback
ridings, a lunch/dinner and a visit to their Sales Room.
Sauvignon, Carmenere, Malbec, Syrah, Sauvignon
Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot and Cinsault. De Martino
Founded in 1993 by Juan Cuneo Solari in Casablanca boasts a tour, the possibility to dine, a gift shop with
Valley, it is one of the few family wineries of the valley. crafts and typical products from the region and
Being a boutique winery and working with small several tastings.
quantities, they maintain the necessary practices to
produce the best quality of wines. The production Errazuriz | Aconcagua Valley
reaches 75,000 cases per year and over 80% of it is
exported to the most demanding markets abroad. Casa Errázuriz was founded in 1870 in the Valle de
del Bosque produces Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Aconcagua, 100 kms north of the capital city, Santiago.
Blanc, Syrah, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Carmenere, and He sent for the finest clones from France, and with
Cabernet Sauvignon. Besides tastings and a tour, they tenacity and perseverance transformed this barren
also boast bike activities, a picnic experience and they land into a world-class vineyard. Errazuriz produces
Sauvignon Blanc Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Camernére,
have a restaurant.
Merlot, Sangiovese,, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Errazuriz’s wine tours include tastings and food pairing
De Martino | Maipo Valley
activities.
It was established in 1934 in the Maipo Valley where
the conditions for wine production are perfect. The
family business grew tremendously over the years and
there are nowadays about 300 hectares organically
managed. Their challenge is to produce wines
reflecting their origin and showing Chile´s incredible
diversity. Being the first to export Carmenere in 1996
they now offer their quality wines in over 30 countries
around the world. De Martino produces Cabernet
Loma Larga | Casablanca Valley
The interest in wine in the Diaz family goes back to
the 19th century. Don Manuel Joaquín Díaz Escudero
Alvarez de Toledo, grandfather of the owners of Loma
Larga personally brought French strains from his
tours of Bordeaux, which were planted with the help
of French winemakers in his estate, “Chacra Victoria”,
now located in the heart of Santiago city. With the
intention of keeping this wine tradition alive, the family
began planting vines in their estate in Casablanca
in 1999. Loma Larga produces Syrah, Cabernet
Franc, Malbec, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and
Sauvignon Blanc. Loma Larga provides the possibility
to do horseback riding, various wine tastings, a tour,
dine possibilities and a helicopter flyby to watch the
vineyards from above.
Matetic | Casablanca Valley
In 1999, the Matetic family decided to diversify
their business ventures and enter the world of wine,
confident in the virtues of the climate and soils in
the Rosario Valley. With a firm conviction in the vital
importance of maintaining a strong professional
team to guide every step of the project, the family
incorporated external consultants into the project
in 2000 to ensure that Matetic wines achieve the
highest quality. Matetic produces Chardonnay,
Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, Gewürztraminer,
and Riesling. Matetic has an hotel, provides various
outdoor excursions (hikes, horseback rides, biking,
etc.) and various tours an tastings.
Miguel Torres | Curicó Valley
In 1979, the hundred year-old wine-making company
Miguel Torres, acquired a small winery in Curicó
Valley. Today, the 100 hectares acquired turned into
445 hectares of vineyards. They benefit from excellent
weather conditions, allowing them to produce sublime
wines.
This family business, striving to maintain the tradition
and passion for wines over the years, is a major
and well-recognized winery in Chile. Miguel Torres
produces Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenere, Syrah,
Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Tempranillo, Carignan,
Gewürztraminer, Merlot, País, Pinot Noir, and Riesling.
Miguel Torres boasts tours, a restaurant, a visitor
centre, an exposition centre, a tasting centre, a guest
house and sales facilities in Chile.
Pérez Cruz | Maipo Valley
During the last century, the Pérez Cruz family started
to develop the agricultural activity with a high level of
dedication and professionalism. They took advantage
of the capacities and enthusiasm of each member of
the family to maintain this passion for this common
interest.
Don Pablo Pérez Zañartu, prominent Chilean business
man, bought the Fundo Liguai de Huelquén located
in the Maipo valley, and managed to create a strong
familial interest for the countryside and wine making.
Thanks to the excellent conditions of the ground and
the climate of the Fundo Liguai, Doña Mariana Cruz
Costa and her sons created the project Viña Pérez
Cruz. Perez Cruz produces Cabernet Sauvignon,
Carmenere, Petit Verdot, Syrah, and Cot. Perez Cruz
boasts various tours through the enterprise including
tastings.
Located in Maipo Valley, it benefits from a unique
ecosystem allowing them to produce Premium Wines.
Their wines are faithfully representative of New World
wineries, providing excellent quality and consistence
in each bottle produced. Tarapaca produces Cabernet
Sauvignon, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Carménère,
Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay among others.
Tarapaca boasts various tours through the enterprise
including tastings.
Tipaume | Cachapoal Valley
Since 1996, Tipaume is one of the first organic and
biodynamic wineries established in Chile. In an small
estate just at the footsteps of the Andes mountains,
in the Cachapoal Valley, the French agronomist
Yves Pouzet developed this family project, a lifetime
dream. The purpose of both wines is producing great
wines but not forgetting the natural essence of their
terroir. Their wine, made in amphoras “Grez”, comes
from one of our family last name. Tipaume & Grez
are made from the blending of Cabernet Sauvignon,
Tarapacá | Maipo Valley
Carmenere, Merlot, Lacryma Christi and Viognier.
Viña Tarapacá was established in 1874, in the foothills Tipaume boasts a tour and tastings.
of the Cordillera de los Andes, creating wines reflecting
a century-long tradition and contemporary elegance.
Undurraga | Maipo Valley
William Cole |Casablanca Valley
Undurraga was founded in 1885. With plants brought
back from France and Germany, and under the
supervision of a French viticultor the first vineyards
were created in Santa Ana, Valley de Maipo. Today,
with more than 125 years of tradition, Undurraga
is present in more than 70 countries. Undurraga
produces Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc,
Merlot, Pinot Noir, Riesling, Gewürstraminer,
Carménère, and Chardonnay. Undurraga boasts
wine routes that include a visit to the park and the
vineyards, a soil analysis test pit, vinification of the
plant, entertainment garden, the underground cellars,
lunch possibilities, and tasting.
The winery was built in 1999, deep within Casablanca
Valley, and is architecturally reminiscent of old Chilean
missions of the southwest American Indian pueblo.
The winery’s capacity of 2.4 million liters is provided
by 98 stainless steel tanks allowing them to fulfill their
mission: producing the finest possible wines using
modern technology and meticulous attention to every
processing detail. William Cole produces Sauvignon
Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Carmenere, Cabernet
Sauvignon and Merlot. William Cole boasts tastings
and visits to the vineyards and the wine cellars.
Viu Manent | Colchagua Valley
Viu Manent is a Chilean winery owned by the Viu
family. It was founded in 1935 when the Catalonian
immigrant Miguel Viu-García and his two sons Agustín
and Miguel Viu-Manent founded Bodegas Viu in
Santiago de Chile. It’s situated in Colchagua valley. This
traditional estate included 150 hectares of vineyards
planted to noble, pre-phylloxera vines, as well as a
winery and manor house. Viu Manent produces Pinot
Noir, Merlot, Carménère, Malbec, Syrah, Cabernet
Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Viognier,
and Semillon. Viu Manent boasts a restaurant, a
winery cafe, an equestrian club, a food & wine pairing
studio and an Emporio shop.
VIK | Apalta Valley
Our wine lovers will have the pleasure to taste the VIK
Icon wine, an excellent blend of Cabernet Sauvignon
and Carménère, produced with a holistic concept:
the synergy between a great terroir with 12 different
valleys, high precision viticulture, high technology,
passion, art and architecture. You will discover a
one-of-a kind winery and enjoy a private barrel wine
tasting. We also invite you to connect you with the
peaceful of nature in a horseback riding, mountain
biking or trekking. The Vik Experience will not leave
you indifferent! Vik produces Cabernet Sauvignon,
Carménère, Syrah, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. VIK
offers wine tastings, horseback ridings, mountain bike
rides, gastronomy, accomodation, guided tours and
visits to neighboring vineyards.
Chile takes a great deal of pride in its long history,
impressive geography, unique culture, and its religious
and indigenous roots. A warm, open and fun-loving
people, Chileans are always ready to celebrate. Any
number of festivals and cultural celebrations take
place in Chile year-round, and some of the most wellknown and exciting of those draw visitors not only
from around the country but from around the world.
From north to south Chilean people welcomes you to
witness the essence of its celebrations and enjoy the
colorful and majestic of Chilean traditions.
Tapati (Easter Island)
On mystical Easter Island, the ‘Tapati’ festival sees
painted bodies become art. A queen is chosen for
the festival from amongst the young people, who
compete for the honor in swimming and canoeing
competitions using small boats and rafts made of
reeds. The teams prepare traditional costumes,
songs and dances, and share the stories of myths
and legends in oral narrations. Body painting, called
´Takona´, is the festival’s chief characteristic, where
the islanders paint their bodies with symbols of their
mythic origins using natural pigments. Physical skill
is also put to the test in the ´Haka Pei´ competition,
in which the most daring young men hurl themselves
at great speed down a mountain, sliding with banana
tree trunks.
La Tirana
La Tirana is a small town in the northern Tarapaca
Region, near the city of Iquique. Its annual festival,
‘Fiesta de la Tirana’, has acquired an importance that
spreads far beyond the itself. It has become Chile’s
most celebrated festival, visited by both local pilgrims
and tourists. On June 12 to 17 each year, dancers and
musicians enact the diablada, the ‘dance of the devils’,
and a carnavalesque dance for exorcising demons.
The dance troupe, wearing fearsome costumes and
masks, move to the rhythm of drums and flutes, with
the leader of the troupe setting the pace with toots
on a whistle. The festival demonstrates a synthesis
between local indigenous religions and Catholicism,
also paying homage to the Virgen del Carmen, or
‘Our Lady of Mount Carmel’. Descendants of the
Atacameño, Kunza, Aymara and other indigenous
peoples arrive at the Virgin’s sanctuary in processions,
making promises in exchange for blessings. Masses
are said in the church while in the surrounding area
there are stalls with handicrafts and food, and dancing
throughout the day.
La Semana Valdiviana (Valdivian Week)
There are more festivals in February. In southern Chile,
the region of lakes and thousand-year-old forests,
the residents of Valdivia celebrate the founding of
their city on February 9, 1552 in the festival of La
Semana Valdiviana. “On the Calle-Calle River the
moon is dancing,” goes a local song. And each year
on February 9, scores of vessels make the river come
to life, captivating Valdivians and visitors from all over
Chile and abroad. The garlanded ships compete for
the prize of most glamorous vessel of all, and are the
perfect setting for crowning the Queen of All Rivers.
A fireworks display closes the festival, while along the
riverbank people enjoy street performances, dining
and beer drinking, the latter a reminder of the cultural
influence of the German immigrants who began to
arrive in the region in the 1800s.
Grape Harvest Festival
The prestige of Chilean wine is celebrated in a special
way in the central zone. Preparations begin with the
arrival of summer, and the festivities culminate during
the final weeks of March. The Grape Harvest Festival
of the city of Curicó is probably the most impressive
of all. A religious ceremony blesses the first batch
of pulped grapes, followed by a parade. The Grape
Harvest also chooses a Queen, who is weighed on
a balance against bottles of wine while a contest
is held between grape stompers. Each competing
team stomps 20 kg of grapes for ten minutes, until
the fruit is converted into juice. Applause and shouts
of encouragement follow the stompers’ energetic
progress as they compete to crush all the grapes and
produce the largest quantity of juice they can.
Fiestas Patrias - National Holidays
On the 18th and 19th of September, Chile’s National
Holidays’ celebrations take place. The coming Spring
is anticipated by open-air ramadas, shelters with
roofs made of tree branches, and fondas, refreshment
stands offering typical dishes, meat or cheese
empanadas, cider and red wine. Under the shelter
of the ramadas people dance the cueca, the national
dance of Chile. It is found with small local variations
throughout Chile, and consists of pairs of dancers
waving handkerchiefs in the air to depict couples
courting and flirting. The people commemorate the
First Assembly of the Government, which marked the
beginning of Chile’s independence on September
18th, 1810, and military triumphs are celebrated with
a parade, presided over by the President, in Santiago’s
Parque O’Higgins. The Chilean flag is displayed on
houses and apartments and children fly kites and play
with marbles and spinning tops. They have hopscotch
competitions and greased pole climbing contests.
There are horse races, Chilean style – bareback, the
rider holding onto the horse’s mane – while rodeos
are held in traditional rings.
Fiesta de La Virgen de Andacollo
The Festival of the Virgen of Andacollo, in the northern
town of Andacollo, is a popular religious festival
celebrating copper, Chile’s greatest natural resource.
Andacollo was a settlement of Molle people, who
are related to the Incas and developed agriculture
and exploited the copper resources. In their native
language of Quechua, ‘anta’ means copper, and
‘coya’ means monarch, and the Virgen of Andacollo
is thus known as the Queen of Copper. The festival,
held each year on 24th - 26th December, is one of the
most widely-attended religious festivals in Chile, with
dances and pledges to the Virgin.
Carnaval Andino Con la Fuerza del Sol
The Carnaval Andino Con la Fuerza del Sol, or “the
Andean Festival with the Strength of the Sun,” is one
of the most influential and entertaining of a string of
festivals that take place in February in Chile’s northern
region. Hosted in the city of Arica, Con la Fuerza del
Sol is a three-day festival that celebrates the peaceful
blending of Spanish and indigenous cultures in the
Andes, as well as Catholic and indigenous traditions.
Chilean, Peruvian and Bolivian participants come
together to celebrate with lavish costumes, dance
groups and brass bands, which compete for the favor
of the audience.
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