Chile is the ultimate destination for those who love contrasts—where snow-capped volcanoes meet arid deserts, and glaciers spill into the ocean under skies so clear they could rival the Milky Way. If you're looking for a unique and safe adventure in 2025, Chile is calling your name.
From its breathtaking landscapes to its world-class food and wine, Chile offers an experience that will stay with you long after the trip is over. Here's why this South American gem should top your travel list.
Adventure awaits
Chile’s diverse geography means there’s something for everyone. Start in the Atacama Desert, the driest non-polar desert on Earth. Here, you’ll find the Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley), salt flats teeming with flamingos, and natural hot springs. And when night falls, it’s stargazing like you’ve never seen before, thanks to some of the clearest skies on the planet.
In Patagonia, Torres del Paine National Park offers epic trekking opportunities, glaciers, and emerald lakes. Whether you’re up for the famous W Trek or prefer a scenic drive, the park’s beauty is undeniable.
Culinary delights
Chile’s food scene is a blend of tradition and innovation. For seafood lovers, dishes like ceviche and king crab are must-tries. If you’re more of a meat lover, the asado (Chilean barbecue) will delight your taste buds.
Wine aficionados will feel like they’ve found heaven. The Casablanca, Maipo, and Colchagua Valleys are home to some of the finest wineries in the world. Be sure to sample Carménère, a red wine unique to Chile, once thought extinct.
Where to stay
Whether you’re looking for boutique charm or a luxurious retreat, Chile has accommodation options to suit your taste. Here are three of my top picks:
Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa, San Pedro de Atacama
Built on the site of an old cattle corral, this eco-luxury property combines modern comfort with traditional Atacameño design. Enjoy panoramic views of the Licancabur Volcano, a world-class spa, and easy access to Atacama’s natural wonders.
The Singular Patagonia, Puerto Natales
A National Monument turned luxury hotel, this restored 20th-century cold storage plant offers industrial-chic interiors with cozy touches. Located near Torres del Paine, The Singular Patagonia features gourmet dining and jaw-dropping views of the fjords.
BordeBaker Lodge, Puerto Bertrand
Situated along the scenic Carretera Austral, BordeBaker Lodge offers seven cozy rooms built with native wood, each boasting impressive views of the turquoise Baker River. The lodge emphasizes sustainability, using LED lighting and recycling programs, and provides a tranquil retreat with activities like fishing, rafting, and hiking.
Lorraine’s Top Travel Tips
- Pack Layers: Chile’s geography means diverse climates, from the dry heat of the Atacama to the cool winds of Patagonia. Bring versatile clothing.
- Try a Pisco Sour: Chile’s national cocktail is a refreshing mix of pisco, lime, and sugar—a must-try.
- Learn Basic Spanish: While Santiago is English-friendly, many remote areas are not. Knowing phrases like hola(hello) and gracias (thank you) will go a long way.
- Book ahead: Popular areas like Torres del Paine fill up fast, especially during peak season (November–March).
- Use offline maps: Cell service can be spotty in remote areas, so download maps before you go.
Getting There
From Canada, there are direct flights to Santiago from Toronto and Vancouver with Air Canada and LATAM Airlines. Once in Santiago, domestic flights make it easy to reach Chile’s regions. LATAM, Sky Airline, and JetSMART offer affordable flights to destinations like Punta Arenas (Patagonia) and Calama (Atacama).
Why Chile in 2025?
Chile’s commitment to sustainable tourism, along with new eco-friendly lodges and expanded flight routes, makes it a top destination in 2025. With cultural events celebrating the 50th anniversary of Pablo Neruda’s Nobel Prize win, the timing couldn’t be better.
So, pack your hiking boots, a sense of adventure, and an appetite for incredible food and wine. Chile isn’t just a destination—it’s a story you’ll be telling for years to come.
Email me at lorraine@lorrainesimpson.
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