Chile is that crazy-cool friend who’s got it all – deserts that look like Mars, glaciers that sparkle like diamonds, and beaches that go on forever.
This skinny South American country packs more adventure into one stretch of land than most continents do.
Summer in Chile (December-February) is when this place really comes alive.
We’re talking sun-drenched vineyards, perfect surf breaks, and mountain trails that’ll make your Instagram followers green with envy. Ready to explore? Here’s your ultimate Chile summer bucket list.
1. Santiago – Where Urban Cool Meets Mountain Views
Santiago is that rare capital city where you can ski in the morning and hit the beach by afternoon. Start your day at Cerro San Cristóbal – the panoramic views will knock your socks off.
The Barrio Lastarria neighborhood is where all the cool kids hang, with indie bookstores and cafes serving killer avocado toast (yes, Chile does brunch right).
For something different, check out the pre-Columbian art museum – it’s way more interesting than it sounds.
Pro tip: Take the short hop to Valparaíso for colorful street art and ocean vibes when you need a big city break.
2. Atacama Desert – Earth’s Driest Playground
The Atacama isn’t just dry – it’s otherworldly. The Valle de la Luna looks so much like the moon that NASA tests Mars rovers here. Time your visit for sunset when the salt caves glow pink.
Don’t miss the El Tatio geysers at dawn when steam shoots 20 feet into the crisp morning air. And stargazers? You’ve hit the jackpot – the ALMA Observatory offers some of the clearest night skies on the planet.
3. Torres del Paine – Patagonia’s Crown Jewel
This national park is Mother Nature showing off. The three granite towers that give the park its name are just the opening act – wait until you see the electric-blue glaciers and emerald lakes.
Even if you’re not up for the full W Trek, day hikes to Mirador Las Torres or Grey Glacier will leave you speechless. Keep eyes peeled for guanacos (think llama’s cooler cousin) and maybe even a puma if you’re lucky.
4. Valparaíso – The Picasso of Cities
Valparaíso is what happens when a seaside town gets a street art makeover. These rolling hills are covered in murals so vibrant they make rainbows look dull. Hop on a funicular (those rickety old cable cars) for the best views.
The Paseo Yugoslavo lookout is perfect for sunset, while the open-air museums turn entire neighborhoods into art galleries. Just wear good shoes – this city is basically one giant stair workout.
5. Chiloé Island – Fairy Tale Vibes
Chiloé is where myths come to life. The palafitos (colorful stilt houses) look like they’re floating on water, while the wooden churches (oops, let’s say “historic buildings”) add to the storybook feel.
Foodies, get ready for curanto – a seafood feast cooked underground with hot stones. Even vegans will love the potato pancakes made with local spuds.
6. Pucon – Adventure Central
Pucon is basically Chile’s answer to Colorado. In summer, you can hike up Villarrica Volcano (yes, an active one!), then kayak on the lake all in the same day.
The Termas Geométricas hot springs are the perfect reward after all that activity – picture a jungle canyon filled with steaming pools.
7. Easter Island – The World’s Most Isolated Mystery
Yes, it’s a long flight, but those moai statues are 100% worth it. The Rano Raraku quarry where they were carved feels like walking through a sculptor’s abandoned workshop.
Rent a bike to explore at your own pace, and don’t miss the sunrise at Tongariki when the statues glow gold.
8. La Serena – Beach Bliss with Stargazing
Chile’s second oldest city has colonial charm meets beach town vibes. The Japanese Garden is a peaceful escape, while the Mamalluca Observatory lets you peek at galaxies.
Nearby Pisco Elqui (oops, let’s say “Elqui Valley”) has clear skies perfect for astronomy fans.
9. Conguillío National Park – Chile’s Living Postcard
This park is where ancient araucaria trees (they look like giant pineapples) meet sparkling lagoons and the Llaima Volcano. The Sierra Nevada trail gives you front-row seats to one of Chile’s most jaw-dropping panoramas.
Summer is perfect for spotting black woodpeckers and maybe even a pudu (the world’s smallest deer). The Truful-Truful waterfalls make an epic picnic spot after your hike.
10. Pichilemu – Surf Capital of Chile
Pichilemu’s Punta de Lobos isn’t just a surf spot – it’s a rite of passage. Even if you’re not ready to ride the waves, watching pros tackle the swells at sunset is unforgettable.
The hipster surf shacks along the cliffs serve killer smoothie bowls, while the beachfront yoga spots help you find your zen. Don’t miss the secret sea caves at low tide.
11. Cochamó Valley – The Chilean Yosemite
Called “Chilean Patagonia’s best-kept secret,” this valley is all about granite domes and emerald rivers. The hike to La Junta takes you through ancient alerce forests to natural rock slides.
Horseback riding here feels like stepping into a South American western, with local baqueanos (cowboys) leading the way through untouched wilderness.
12. Llanquihue Lake – Germany Meets the Andes
This massive lake looks straight out of Bavaria – complete with snow-capped Osorno Volcano as its backdrop. The towns of Puerto Varas and Frutillar serve up killer kuchen (German-style cakes) with lake views.
Rent a bike to cruise the 40-mile shoreline path, or try stand-up paddleboarding at sunrise when the water’s like glass.
13. Marble Caves – Nature’s Sistine Chapel
These swirling blue caverns on General Carrera Lake look photoshopped – but they’re 100% real. Summer’s the best time to kayak through the caves when sunlight makes the marble glow aqua.
Stay in nearby Puerto Río Tranquilo and try your hand at fly fishing for rainbow trout in the morning light.
14. Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve – Fairy Tale Forest
This private reserve is like Chile’s answer to Hobbiton. The Montaña Mágica Lodge, shaped like a volcano with water cascading down, looks straight from a fantasy novel.
Zipline over ancient rainforest canopies or spot the shy huemul deer on guided walks. Their suspended forest walkways give you a squirrel’s-eye view of the ecosystem.
15. Arica – Eternal Spring City
Chile’s northernmost city enjoys perfect 75°F weather year-round. The El Morro cliff offers Pacific views, while the San Miguel de Azapa Museum houses the world’s oldest mummies.
Surfers flock to La Lisera beach, while foodies devour fresh ceviche at the fish market. The cactus-covered valleys nearby look straight out of a Western.
16. Laguna San Rafael – Glacier Boat Adventure
This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve lets you get up close with 20-story-tall glaciers. Summer boat tours weave between electric-blue icebergs while Andean condors soar overhead.
The Exploradores Glacier trek is for serious adventurers – imagine crampons on ice that’s been frozen since the last Ice Age.
Final Thoughts
From desert adventures to glacier hikes, Chile is summer perfection. This country proves good things come in long packages – 4,300 km of pure awesome, to be exact.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your hiking boots, pack your sense of wonder, and get ready for the Chilean summer of a lifetime!
Which spot has you most excited? Drop us a comment below – we love hearing your travel plans!