Culture and Heritage

"Ethnic tourism" is a great way to discover and learn about a country's native cultures. In Chile's altiplano, inland from Arica, Iquique and Antofagasta, you can explore small towns where the inhabitants still practice the traditions of the Aymara culture (including colorful celebrations). Their daily life is a product of this culture's contact with the Incans and the Spanish conquistadors. You'll marvel at the area's churches, museums and archeological sites where you can learn more about pre-Columbian cultures.

Easter Island offers an opportunity to view the mysterious Moai statues and have direct contact with the Rapa Nui culture, which you can experience to the fullest during the Tapati Rapa Nui celebration that is held each February.

Don't miss the old quarter of Valparaíso, which has been selected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or regional festivities including the central regions' wine harvest, Quasimodo processions and rodeos and the La Tirana celebration in the Atacama Desert.

In the southern part of the country, you'll find organized ethnic tourism options in the areas surrounding Temuco and Osorno, where the Mapuche communities will show you their traditions and offer tours of the natural parks whose conservation they oversee.

If you visit Chiloé, the locals will share their legends with you and let you partake of their culinary offerings. Don't miss the chance to visit the local churches, 16 of which have been declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites.