Antarctica Holidays

From the Atacama Desert in the north to the Antarctic gateway in the south, Chile has the sort of epic landscape to make even the most seasoned traveller take notice. Occupying a remarkably long slither of land running over 4000 km down the west coast of South America, the Andes form the backbone of this breathtaking country, separating it from Bolivia and Peru to the north and Argentina to the east.

Chile is characterised by an astounding array of dramatic landscapes that roughly form four distinct regions. At the northern end, the arid and beautiful earthen tones of the Atacama Desert stand in marked contrast to the lush and fruitful vineyards of the central valley, which is also home to Chile's modern capital, Santiago. Further south, the wine lands give way to the forests, mountains and volcanoes of the tranquil lake district, while completing the southern segment of the country, Chilean Patagonia plays host to the immense peaks, fjords and glaciers of the Torres del Paine National Park. Chile is also the natural gateway to Easter Island, which is located nearly 4000 km off its west coast.

Chilean Patagonia - Torres Del Paine & The Southern Fjords

The looming peaks of the Paine Massif are without doubt amongst some of the most lingering images of the country. These stunning granite towers are the jewel of Chile's national park - Torres del Paine - a vast array of windswept plains, irresistible to hikers and climbers. The area is also home to several Magellanic penguin colonies and herds of guanacos. The vast Campo de Hielo Sur southern ice field (outsized only by those in Antarctic and Greenland) extends into Grey Glacier and icebergs calve off into Lago Grey. Numerous cruise options are available providing the opportunity to explore the breathtaking fjords, flanked by forests and ice-filled glacial lakes.

Northern Chile

Few environments could contrast more markedly than the vast snowy wilderness of the Antarctic and the arid, rust coloured Atacama Desert in northern Chile. The Northern Atacama Altiplano is the driest desert on earth and is characterised by the warm glow of red rock and sand. Natural wonders abound here with the Atacama salt flats, home to flocks of vibrant flamingos, vying for attention along with the spouting El Tatio geysers and natural hot springs as well as the nearby 'Valley of the Moon'. This latter attraction has a haunting atmosphere and is a must see of the region. The North is also where you will find the Lauca National Park rimmed by snow-capped volcanic peaks and boasting the emerald-coloured Lake Chungara.

The Central Valley

Stretching south 400 km or so from the nation's capital, the Central Valley is Chile's wine growing district producing the country's increasingly popular and palatable wines. The lush and fertile landscape is dotted with vineyards and orchards, at the heart of which lies the Colchagua Valley. To the West of Santiago lie Valparaiso and Vina del Mar, Chile's most popular coastal resort area and home to some beautiful sandy beaches. Near to Santiago to the east are the rugged gorges and rushing rivers of the picturesque Maipo Valley. Providing easy access to the Andes, day excursions are possible.

The Lake District

Chile's Lake District is ideal for those looking for a more adventurous option. Fishing, white-water rafting, mountain biking, trekking and horse riding all provide a thrill for those wishing to expend a little energy, while those looking for a less hectic option can enjoy the stunning scenery of mirrored lakes, striking waterfalls and bubbling hot springs. The majestic snow-capped volcano Osorno stands majestic against country's second largest lake Lago Llanquihue. There is a distinctly German influence in this area and is also famous for myths and legends and is dotted with little wooden churches, chapels and 'palafitos' (timber houses built on stilts at the waters edge). Lake crossings provide access through the Andes to Bariloche in Argentina. The archipelago of Chiloe is easily reached from Puerto Montt.

Easter Island

The Moai monolithic statues of Polynesian Easter Island, or Rapa Nui as it is known locally, are undoubtedly the symbol of one of the most mysterious and curious cultures known to man. Easter Island is located about 4000 km west of Chile and is serviced by flights from Santiago several times a week.

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