By: Bec Harris
“Chile has everything,” says travel expert David Smyth from Forward Travel.
Stretching from the world’s driest desert to the icy peaks of Patagonia, Chile offers an unmatched range of landscapes. Smyth explains, “It’s a really long, thin country that runs down the west coast of South America, almost as long as Australia is wide.”
That means travellers can experience deserts, snow-capped mountains, vineyards, beaches, and glaciers all in one country.
Top Three Must-See Regions
When asked where to go first, Smyth doesn’t hesitate. “You’ve got to do the Atacama Desert up north, spend time around Santiago in the wine region, and then head down south to Patagonia.”
Each region shows off Chile’s diversity, from surreal salt flats and flamingo-filled lagoons to world-class wineries and stunning fjords.
If you’re looking for something less touristy, David recommends driving the Carretera Austral. “It’s often overlooked because it’s off the beaten track, but it’s spectacular,” he says. “You can take it at your own pace and see some of the most amazing scenery in the country.”
Getting There Is Easier Than You Think
Many travellers don’t realise you can fly directly from Australia to Chile. “Latam and Qantas both operate flights,” David explains. “It’s about a 14-hour trip from Sydney to Santiago.”
From there, you can explore the rest of South America or stay to enjoy Chile’s unique mix of nature, food, and culture.
A Food Lover’s Paradise
Chile’s cuisine reflects its geography. “It’s a big meat country,” Smyth says. “You’ll find hearty dishes with beans, corn, and vegetables.”
Seafood is also a highlight thanks to Chile’s long coastline. “You won’t be disappointed,” he adds. “And don’t forget to try Chile’s famous wines or a pisco sour if you like cocktails.”
Planning Your Chilean Adventure
Chile’s length means climates vary drastically. Smyth advises travellers to plan around the seasons. “You can’t visit Patagonia in March or April it’s too cold. Decide what you want to see, because you probably can’t do it all in one trip.”
He also suggests flying between regions to save time. “It’s a safe, well-structured country, but distances are big a bit like Australia.”
Why Chile Should Be on Your List
From desert dunes to glacier lakes, Chile promises adventure for every kind of traveller. “It’s one of those places that just has everything,” David says.
Whether you’re sipping wine in Santiago, hiking in Patagonia, or stargazing in the Atacama, Chile delivers unforgettable experiences and it’s now easier than ever to get there.
Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine.
Feature image: Canva
