There aren’t many places on Earth with a climate as dynamic and dramatic as Chile’s. Its deserts, glaciers, and mountain ranges attract visitors from around the world, each searching for a unique and extreme adventure. Its cities are rich with history and bohemian charm—perfect for the traveller with an unshakeable case of wanderlust. To fully enjoy all that Chile has to offer, follow our guide to this breathtaking Latin American hot (and cold) spot.
Begin your trip in Santiago, the capital city
set in a valley surrounded by snow-peaked mountains. With your SWISSGEAR La Sarinne Expandable Hardside suitcase rolling effortlessly on its 360° spinner wheels, stroll down Paseo Bandera. This pedestrian walkway was once Santiago’s most congested street. Now, it’s a rainbow promenade decorated with a kaleidoscope of color by Chilean artist Dasic Fernandez.
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Leave your suitcase at the hotel and strap on your SWISSGEAR Waistbag to keep your passport and credit card safe with RFID dedicated pockets. Stop first in Constitution Square, a newly redesigned community meeting spot, before exploring the Plaza de Armas. This commonly used Latin American phrase means “square of weapons.” Early city planners often designed squares like this, surrounding an open plaza with important government buildings that could double as protection in an attack. This square was built at the same time as Santiago’s founding in 1541 but is now the site of numerous attractions like the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Royal Palace which houses the National History Museum, and many shops offering artisanal items.
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The culinary opportunities in Santiago are unique and varied. We recommend trying the La Corina’s Mangonada, a refreshing mix of mangos, lime juice, chili powder, and a pickled fruit sauce called Chamoy. Chile is also known for its delectable sandwiches like the Pan con Chicharrón from Donde Guido or the Mechada served at Local Paraiso. After dark, enjoy the best Chilean nightlife at Patio Bellavista, an open-air network of bars, restaurants, and shops. For a last view of the city, hike to Castillo Hidalgo on top of the Santa Lucia Hills. Originally used as a fortress, dungeon, and barracks, it is now the best vantage point to see both the Andes mountains and the cityscape.
For your first encounter with the majesty that is the Chilean landscape, spend some time exploring Cerro San Cristobal (aka Parque Metropolitano), the largest green space in the Santiago area. Depending on your specific destination, the hills are accessible by funicular or cable car. Be sure to visit the Jardín Botánico Mapulemu (botanical garden), the Jardín Japonés (Japanese garden), the Chilean National Zoo, and the 72-foot statue of the Virgin Mary that overlooks an amphitheater.
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Once you’ve had enough of the city, strap on the SWISSGEAR Rainproof Backpack and head out into Chile’s breathtaking wilderness. Start off easy with the beaches of Viña del Mar. With its temperate Mediterranean-like climate, this city is the perfect beach destination. The Playa del Sol, Playa Acapulco, and the family friendly Playa Caleta Abarca are all close by. After the beach, head out to San Pedro de Atacama, a town in the middle of the desert and the ideal pitstop on your way to the Valley of the Moon and Death Valley. These two desert locations mimic the conditions on the Moon and Mars and offer some of the most awe-inspiring celestial views for passionate stargazers. You can also take a tour of the salt caves in the Valley of the Moon or catch an epic sunset from Death Valley.
Keep extra outer gear in your backpack as you travel through changing climates to experience more of Chile’s natural wonders. At El Tatio Field, go on a trekking adventure to see volcanoes, geysers, and hot springs. Visit Machuga Village, a popular hiking destination where llamas and alpacas roam, or Laguna Chaxa, a lake in Las Flamencos National Reserve where you can usually find a flock of flamingos. If you’re searching for Magellan Penguins, stop at Punta Arenas, a city near the southern-most tip of Chile, and take a shore expedition or mountain bike adventure. Finally, for the more daring adventurer, Torres de Paine National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to view glaciers that are sadly melting twice as fast as they were a decade ago. The best time to visit is during the warm season from October to April, when you can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, boating, and glacial tours by kayak.
If you’re heading to Chile this summer, make sure SWISSGEAR is part of the trip. With durable, expertly-crafted backpacks, shoulder bags, totes and luggage, SWISSGEAR has what it takes to take on the wild, majestic beauty and diverse cultural playground of Chile. To shop the complete collection, visit www.swissgear.ca.
