Chile Travel
Museam Houses Pablo Neruda
Located just 10 kilometers from Viña del Mar, in the hills of Valparaíso, La Sebastiana is one of Pablo Neruda’s iconic houses and a window into the life and imagination of one of Chile’s most celebrated figures. Born in Parral on July 12, 1904, and passing away in Santiago on September 23, 1973, Neruda was a prolific poet, writer, diplomat, and politician of the Chilean Communist Party. He served as a Senator for the First Provincial Grouping “Tarapacá and Antofagasta” between 1945 and 1950, and later as Chile’s ambassador to France under President Salvador Allende Gossens. Today, La Sebastiana, along with his other houses—Isla Negra on the coast and La Chascona in Santiago—stands as a vibrant testament to his extraordinary life and legacy.
Cerro Alegre & Cerro Concepción (Valparaíso)
Distance from Viña del Mar: 12 km
Recommended time: 3–4 hours
These neighboring hills grew in the 19th century as homes for European immigrants, whose influence remains visible in the architecture, cafés, and churches. Today they form Valparaíso’s most walkable cultural district, filled with murals, viewpoints, and boutique shops.
Cajón del Maipo
Distance from Viña del Mar: 180 km
Recommended time: Full day (8–10 hours)
A mountainous canyon southeast of Santiago, historically used as a route by Andean travelers. Today it offers hot springs, hiking trails, and impressive views of the Andes—ideal for nature lovers.
Concón Dunes
Distance from Viña del Mar: 12 km
Recommended time: 1.5 – 2 hours
These coastal dunes, formed naturally over thousands of years by ocean winds, are one of the last remaining dune fields in central Chile. Today they are a protected landscape offering sweeping views of the Pacific, gentle walks along sandy ridges, and unforgettable sunsets.
Flower Clock (Viña del Mar)
Distance from city center: 1 km
Recommended time: 30–40 minutes
Inaugurated in 1962 for the FIFA World Cup hosted in Chile, this functioning clock built entirely with seasonal flowers has become one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. A classic spot for photos and a pleasant stop while touring the coastal area.
Portillo Ski Resort
Distance from Viña del Mar: 160 km
Recommended time: Full day
One of the oldest ski resorts in South America, hosting Olympic teams since the 1960s. Its turquoise Inca Lake and high-altitude scenery make it a stunning destination year-round.
Siete Tazas National Park
Distance from Viña del Mar: ~330 km
Recommended time: Full day
A protected area featuring a series of natural volcanic rock pools and waterfalls formed over centuries. The park offers hiking trails surrounded by native forest and pristine river landscapes.
La Serena & Valle del Elqui
Distance from Viña del Mar: 480–500 km
Recommended time: 2–3 days
Founded in 1544, La Serena is one of Chile’s oldest cities, known for its colonial churches and calm beaches. Nearby, the Elqui Valley—famous for its clear skies and pisco production—offers observatories and small towns with deep cultural and astronomical heritage.
Mamalluca or Tololo Observatories (Coquimbo Region)
Distance from Viña del Mar: 450–500 km
Recommended time: Full day
Located in one of the world’s best spots for astronomical observation, these observatories provide guided tours that highlight Chile’s scientific leadership in astronomy.
Humboldt Penguin National Reserve (Isla Damas / Punta de Choros)
Distance from Viña del Mar: 550 km
Recommended time: Full day
A marine sanctuary home to Humboldt penguins, sea lions, dolphins, and diverse birdlife. Visitors can take boat tours to clear-water islands rich in wildlife and natural history.
Chiloé Island
Distance from Viña del Mar: 1,150 km
Recommended time: 3–4 days
A mystical archipelago with UNESCO-listed wooden churches, palafito houses, and rich folklore. Fishing traditions, unique cuisine, and green landscapes make Chiloé one of Chile’s most distinctive cultural destinations.
Torres Del Paine and Puerto Natales
Distance from Viña del Mar: Flights needed (3–4 hours to Punta Arenas then bus)
Recommended time: 3–5 days
One of the world’s most famous national parks, established in the 1950s. Its granite towers, glacier lakes, and vast steppe make it a bucket-list destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Carretera Austral
Located over 1,400 kilometers south of Viña del Mar, the Carretera Austral—or Austral Highway—is a unique destination, offering more than 1,200 kilometers of breathtaking natural beauty. The Austral Highway captivates all visitors, whether by car or bicycle, with its unspoilt landscapes and the rarefied air that only those fortunate enough to be acquainted with this route can experience.
San Pedro de Atacama
Distance from Viña del Mar: Flights needed (2 hours to Calama + 1.5 hour drive)
Recommended time: 3–5 days
Located in the world’s driest desert, this historic oasis town is surrounded by surreal landscapes—geyser fields, salt flats, and ancient archaeological sites. Ideal for stargazing and exploring unique desert formations.
LACEM 2025 