Chile attractions

Get to know the cultural history and heritage of Chiloé and its people at the Regional Museum of Ancud, also known as Museo Chiloé. The museum’s collection traces the development of the Chilean archipelago, starting from the first inhabitants who settled there more than 6,000 years ago.

Temuco’s Museo Regional de la Araucanía may be small, but it’s home to an excellent collection of exhibits and artifacts. Inside the century-old landmark, the works on display shed light on the Indigenous peoples of the Araucania region, as well as the Spanish colonists.

The islands of Chiloé are filled with historical treasures, but the Museo de Arte Moderno Chiloé (MAM) offers an alternative view of cultural life in the archipelago. As Chiloé Island’s only contemporary art museum, its mission is to promote and preserve contemporary art by hosting rotating exhibitions of Chilean and international art and by supporting artists through residencies.

Discover Chiloé’s wild side at Tantauco Park (Parque Tantauco) in the far south of the archipelago’s Greater Island of Chiloé (Isla Grande de Chiloé). It’s located at what’s considered the northern border of Chilean Patagonia. Thanks to the remarkable biodiversity of its Valdivian temperate rainforest, the park is a top ecotourism destination.

The rugged beauty of Nevado Tres Cruces National Park (Parque Nacional Nevado Tres Cruces) draws visitors to the high desert of Chile’s Atacama region. With soaring peaks— including Chile’s highest, Ojos del Salado—and lagoons, the park is home to an array of wildlife, such as flamingos in summer, vicuñas, guanacos, giant and horned coots, and, occasionally, condors and pumas.

In the remote highlands of northern Chile, Laguna Roja (Red Lagoon) is an otherworldly body of water with a deep crimson hue. Surrounded by rugged landscapes and shrouded in mystery, this unique natural phenomenon is a hidden gem. Visiting Laguna Roja lets you experience one of Chile's most enigmatic and surreal natural wonders, far from the beaten path.

History buffs will enjoy exploring the Museo Historico y de Armas (History and Weapons Museum) in Arica. Perched atop the Morro de Arica, the museum recounts the events of a key battle that took place on the same site in 1880 during the War of the Pacific.

Dive into the world beneath the waves at Arica’s Sea Museum (Museo del Mar de Arica). By showcasing the region’s rich maritime heritage, this small but fascinating museum offers visitors a glimpse into the history and culture of the sea, and its influence on Arica.

Corazones Beach (Playa Corazones) is a rocky and rugged destination south of the North Chilean city of Arica. The beach is known for its stunning ocean views, sea caves, and wildlife-spotting opportunities—and it reportedly has some of the best sunset views in the area.

The closest beach to the city center, Arica’s curve-shaped El Laucho Beach (Playa El Laucho) is known for its calm and inviting waters. A popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of the city, El Laucho is the ideal destination for a quick beach escape while visiting Arica.