Flanked by the Andes Mountains—which separate the country from Argentina—on one side, the South Pacific Ocean on the other, Chile is less than 200km wide yet stretches 4,200km from north to south. 

As a result, dry deserts in the north roll into lush plains, wine valleys and lakes in the country’s center, before frozen Patagonia further south. Culture and wildlife combine in Chile to create one of South America’s top destinations. 

The capital, Santiago de Chile, is a modern city with plenty of restaurants and day trips to the Central Valley, bohemian Valparaíso, and the beach resort of Viña del Mar. However, the main highlights of Chile lie in its variety of landscapes. 

In the ethereal Atacama Desert and Moon Valley you’ll find the best stargazing in the Southern Hemisphere, though clear night skies can also be found in the Lake District and Patagonia further south. 

While there, visit Torres del Paine National Park for scenic walks, lagoons, mountains and picture-perfect viewpoints, or Chilean Patagonia where icebergs and glaciers, Penguin colonies and pine forests offers some of the most pristine wilderness in South America. 

Away from the mainland true archaeological wonders of the world and be found on Easter Island. Here, look forward to ancient Moai statues, pre-historic temples, jaw-dropping volcanic craters, plus watersports, cultural traditions, fine food and unforgettable sunsets to round off each day.