The Chilean ski resort and hot springs that caught Monopoly’s eye

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Nevados de Chillán is one of the most famous ski resorts in the south of Chile, with more than 10,000 hectares to do winter sports and enjoy hot springs, hotels and luxury cuisine. The best thing? This resort is a few hours away from the airport in Concepción and from Santiago on a plane.

Get ready to enjoy an unforgettable experience, in a place full of striking landscapes, a beautiful clear sky and big mountains that you can only find in the Andes Mountain Range.

Nevados de Chillán caught Monopoly’s eye

The fame of Nevados de Chillán is so big that in 2018, the famous company Hasbro choose it, after public vote, as one of the 22 places to be on the board game in the Monopoly Chile edition. The voting had Chileans as participants but people from all over the world like the United States, Philippines, Brazil, Argentina, Spain, Peru, United Kingdom and Canada could also vote.

If you are a fan of the board game, inside the hotel you can find the plaque of appreciation that proves this story. Ask the workers and hosts!

How do I get to Nevados de Chillán from Concepción?

If you come to Chile by plane, the best option is to land at the Carriel Sur International Airport in Concepción. You can go by transfer or rent a car from there, which you will have to travel two hours and a half in to get to Nevados de Chillán.

It’s a 173-kilometer journey  approximately. During the climb, you will find gas stations, pharmacies, banks, healthcare centers and places to rent snow equipment. Remember to always check the weather conditions before your trip and always have the necessary precautions to go to the mountains.

You can also get there by car from Argentina, going through the Pichachén pass, located in the district of Neuquén. Here you can find everything you need to know to cross through the Andes Mountain Range into our country.

Requirements to enter Chile

Travel to Chile Plan

What can I do in Nevados de Chillán?

Ski resort

Photo: Sernatur audiovisual bank

Nevados de Chillán has one of the most complete ski resorts in South America, with more than 10,000 hectares where you can use it for all kinds of winter sports.

You can find 500 areas with strict security parameters, with more than 20 ski slopes and 13 ski lifts. You can also find ski and snowboard schools with top-level instructors as well as an area for beginners, perfect to learn or go with your family.

Outside of the designated areas, you can find backcountry areas, where you can enjoy off-track winter sports. In this place, being responsible is really important because you are outside of the security zone and immediate help may not be available.

Click here to see the prices for the ski resort.

Natural hot springs

Photo:  @multiviajes.cl

Enjoy a thermal bath and leave everything behind meanwhile you relax amid magical landscapes. Nevados de Chillán has three places with thermal pools: Valle Hermoso, Parque de Agua and Nevados Hotel.

  • Valle Hermoso has three outdoor pools with spaces to cook barbecues and have picnics. The daily pass has a cost from 25,000 CLP (about 27 USD) and children until 12 years old come in for free. Click here for more information.
  • Parque de Agua has four thermal pools: three outdoors and one indoor. They also have a café, a spa and a bar. The daily pass has a cost from 35,000 CLP (about 38 USD) and children until 12 years old come in for free. Click here for more information.
  • The thermal pools of Nevados Hotel are only for guests.

Hotels and top-level cuisine

Photo: Sernatur audiovisual bank

In Nevados de Chillán you will find top-level accommodation, with a variety of cuisine spaces and wellness services like spa and massages.

You can stay at Nevados Hotel or at Alto Nevados Hotel, where each one has easy access to the snow slopes. You can also rent an apartment in Valle Hermoso or rent a motorhome to camp in the middle of the mountains.

Check programs and prices by clicking here.

 

 

Red footbridges and ancient forests: the most famous hot spring in Chile

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If you are crossing the Andes Mountain Range from Argentina looking for a location that mixes wild nature, architectural designs and relaxation, you will love the Geometric Hot Springs, considered the most famous hot spring in Chile.

Located in the middle of Villarrica National Park, this place is much more than just a hot spring: it’s a visual, sensory and spiritual experience.

Keep reading! We invite you to discover it.

Main photo by: @Termas_geometricas

Geometric Hot Springs, a hidden paradise between mountains and native vegetation.

Imagine that you are walking along red wooden footbridges, leaning over a narrow passage of volcanic rock, steam dancing around between big Chilean rhubarbs, natural waterfalls and trees older than any city. This is what the Geometric Hot Springs has to offer, only a few hours away from the border with Argentina and from the Mamuil Malal pass.

This thermal center with a unique design was created by the Chilean architect Germán del Sol and it blends in a perfect way with the surroundings. The result: 17 natural hot springs that reach 45°C  made to relax at any time of the year, even when snow falls between June and September.

The most famous hot spring in Chile

The Geometric Hot Springs has become one of the most famous places on Instagram and social media, because of the red footbridges contrasting with the intense green of the rainy forest, creating a movie scenery. Influencers, photographers, backpackers and travelers looking for authentic experiences put this place on the international map.

As well as the relaxation and beautiful landscapes, you can enjoy a healthy snack at the café inside, walk along the footbridges or just spend time gazing at the steam that rises between the centenary trees. This place is open all year and is perfect for a romantic getaway, solo traveling or with friends.

Are you looking for renewing energies, to take unique pictures and to have an unforgettable experience? The Geometric Hot Springs are waiting for you and they are closer than you think.

How do I get to the Geometric Hot Springs?

From San Martín de los Andes or Villa La Angostura, the most direct crossing is through the Mamuil Malal pass (check the state before crossing). You will first arrive in Pucón, and from there it is a short drive to Coñaripe area, to the feet of the Villarrica volcano.

All of the journey is part of the adventure, with imposing views and lovely towns!

If you are going from Santiago, you have to go by plane to Temuco Airport, rent a car or hire private transportation to get to your final destination.

It’s not Tibet: The most energetic place is located in Chile

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About 60 kilometers from La Serena, the Elqui Valley is located, a Chilean place known by many as the “new Tibet” in which year after year, it surprises travelers that are looking for a reconnection with themselves amid one of the clearest and starry skies in the world.

This valley, where Chilean pisco is also born, combines impressive landscapes, ancestral mysticism and an energy that seems to come out from this very land.

It has become a magnet for spiritual seekers, astronomers and curious travelers from all over the world. We invite you to know why!

Kundalini energy and its arrival in Chile

Have you heard of kundalini energy? This is a belief from the spiritual traditions of India, focused on the vital and spiritual strength.

According to these beliefs, kundalini energy is also present on Earth and every 13,000 years, it changes its location. For a long period of human history, this energy was located in Tibet, southwest China, but now, it has moved to Elqui Valley, to one of the most well-known towns, Cochiguaz.

This phenomenon has promoted spiritual tourism in this valley of the Coquimbo region, attracting visitors from all over the world that are interested in yoga retreats, meditation and holistic practices.

A portal between hemispheres?

One of the most fascinating myths about the Elqui Valley is that Cochiguaz, located between hills at 1,500 meters (4,921 feet) above sea level is connected with Tibet.

According to local myths, both places are located at the geographic antipodes, meaning that they are at extreme opposites points on the Earth.

This alignment has given cause to legends about energetic portals and the mysterious disappearance of Buddhist monks that, according to the locals, were secluded on the Cancana hill and never returned.

The stupa of enlightenment

Source: @Estupa_iluminación

If you liked this story, you should go visit the Stupa of enlightenment, a Buddhist monument in Cochiguaz. It is the biggest in Chile and a true symbol of spirituality and serenity. You can visit this monument from Monday to Sunday (they close on Wednesdays), between 10:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.

To get there, take the route from La Serena to the inside of the Elqui Valley. Once you are in Montegrande, take a turn to Cochiguaz and keep driving until the end of the paved way. You will see the stupa in all its glory!

Apart from its architectural beauty, this location irradiates a special energy. It’s the ideal place to meditate or simply to just contemplate the Andean landscape. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, comfortable clothes and an open mind.

 

 

Chile in 7 days: From the snow in the Andes to a desert full of contrasts

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Travel around Chile in 7 days with this amazing itinerary full of activities and unique
destinations in our country.

In just one week, we will take you on a tour of its most spectacular landscapes, from the
Atacama Desert to the magical snow-capped Andes Mountain Range, without forgetting to
enjoy every moment.

So, if you have a week to get lost in a paradise full of nature, culture and adrenaline, here is
the perfect itinerary for you!

Let’s travel around Chile in 7 days.

 

Day 1: Welcome to Santiago, the “heart” of central Chile

Picture of a store in Italia Neighborhood. Credits: Sernatur.

We start with the capital city, Santiago! After your arrival, take some time to rest and go out
and walk through its main neighborhoods.

If you are staying in districts in the eastern part of Santiago like Providencia, Las Condes,
Vitacura, or Ñuñoa, you can walk or take the subway to attractions such as the Costanera
Center lookout or the San Cristóbal Hill with its funicular. You will have a panoramic view of
the capital and a view of the Andes Mountain Range in both!

During the afternoon, we recommend you take a walk through Bellavista Neighborhood,
famous for its bars, art, and a nightlife that will surprise you. There you will find La Chascona,
one of the house museums of the Chilean poet and Nobel Prize in Literature, Pablo Neruda.

Another alternative is to get to know the Barrio Italia (Italy Neighborhood), which is located a
few meters away from the Parque Bustamante or Santa Isabel subway stations. You will find
stores, bars, and plenty of entertainment.

 

Day 2: Get to know the snow a few kilometers away from the capital

One of the advantages of visiting Santiago is that a few kilometers away from our main city,you will have several alternatives to visit the snow. Keep in mind that the season usually takes place between the months of June and September!

At ski resorts like Valle Nevado, Portillo, El Colorado or La Parva, you can enjoy a day full of
activities in the snow, whether you like skiing, snowboarding, or just enjoying the view with a
nice cup of hot chocolate.

You can find more information about where to get your tickets, prices, and other details
here.

 

Day 3: San Pedro de Atacama and the driest desert in the world

If there is a place in Chile you must visit, it is is San Pedro de Atacama. Located 1,550 kilometers away from the capital, this destination is famous for being situated in the Atacama Desert, which is considered the driest in the world. This contrasts with its flora and fauna diversity, landscapes, salt flats, and even natural hot springs.

Despite its geographical distance, flights from Santiago to Calama, the nearest city to San Pedro, last little more than two hours. You will then have to take a transfer or a private vehicle from the airport, which run frequently. Always prefer official or authorized transport for your safety.

One of the must-sees is the tour to the Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley), where apart from enjoying from a desert landscape, you will see the best sunset of all San Pedro de Atacama.

The Moon Valley tour can be done in one day and includes visits to the Kari Lookout or the Coyote Stone, where you can appreciate the immensity of the Atacama desert and see the best sunsets, according to tourist guides and locals.

It is important that you wear comfortable clothes, appropriate footwear, bring water and all the necessary elements to prevent sun radiation, like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Remember to only hire tourist services registered with Sernatur!

Check out  other must-do activities here, how to get to San Pedro and everything you should know before your visit.

 

Day 4: The amazing Tatio Geysers

If you are visiting San Pedro de Atacama, you can’t miss the Tatio Geysers, one of the largest geothermal fields in the world. It is especially fascinating in the early morning hours, when the fumaroles rise towards the cold sky and create a visual effect difficult to describe because of how striking it is.

The excursions to the Tatio Geysers are comforting, but you must take the following considerations into account since you will be at a height over 4,000 meters above sea level.

Remember to eat well the previous night, drink plenty of water, and wrap up warm in layers with thermal clothing, mainly because the temperature is usually below 0°C.

In the afternoon, you can relax in the Puritama thermal waters, for a refreshing bath surrounded by nature and desert scenery.

 

Day 5: Enjoy southern Chile and its dreamlike landscapes!

During your fifth day of adventure, you will have to go back to Calama to take a new flight bound for southern Chile. Unlike the north, in this area you will find dense forests, glaciers, rivers, and lakes.

An excellent alternative is to land at the Carrier Sur International Airport in Concepción. You can take a transfer or rent a vehicle from there, which you will have to travel in two and a half hours to get to Nevados de Chillán, a ski and snowboard resort which has hotels.

We recommend you spend your first day enjoying its facilities and the incredible natural thermal waters it offers. Find out here how to get there and other necessary information for your visit.

 

Day 6: Snowboarding or hiking?

One of the virtues of the Las Trancas Valley, where Nevados de Chillán is located, is that it has an extended snow season where the hills are covered with a great white blanket.

Given these natural conditions in the area and the large infrastructure, you can take snowboarding classes to learn everything you need about this sport. It is truly an art to handle the board!

Another alternative to do in the middle of 7 days traveling around Chile is to explore more of the valley through hiking trails that offer amazing panoramic views.

You will travel through lenga and coihue forests, and you will be able to enjoy mountain landscapes and crystal-clear rivers. Finally, a visit to the Las Trancas Valley lookout will give you an amazing view of the surroundings. This itinerary combines adventure, relaxation, and nature, offering a unique experience in one of the most beautiful destinations in Chile.

Remember to book your activities with  tourist services registered with Sernatur.

 

Day 7: The end of the journey and the ideal souvenir

After so many adventures, it is time to go back to Santiago and start on your journey back. Make the most of the last day to look for an incredible souvenir that can help you to remember the experience of visiting Chile.

For you or a loved one, Chilean wine is excellent, and it will certainly be a highly appreciated present. You will find award-winning varieties worldwide in shopping malls, vineyards, and wine bars.

A fine Carmenere wine, an almost extinct strain that was reborn in Chile, stands out for its deep, dark color, smoothness and versatility in pairing with red meats, pasta with rich sauces, or specialized dishes.

 

Exclusive vineyards in Chile: a luxury that makes the world fall in love

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The Colchagua and Casablanca valleys, located in the center of the wine tradition of Chile, have been the epicenter of viticulture, offering a unique experience for the wine and high class vineyards lovers

In these valleys, you can find some of the most prestigious vineyards in the country, such as VIK, Clos Apalta, ViuM anent and Matetic

These wine proposals combine excellence, innovation and respect for the environment to offer worldwide class wines to the customers.

Four exclusive vineyards in Chile to visit in 2025

VIK: In honor of designer wines

Located in the Millahue valley, in the center of Colchagua, VIK vineyard is a synonym of exclusivity and in honor of designer wine.

There is a sustainability focus, and the vineyard has positioned itself as one of the most important ones in Chile thanks to the quality of its wines, which stands out because of its complexity and elegance, as well as for of its cuisine and representative hotel Vik Chile Retreats.

Imagine staying in a hotel that appears to emerge from nature itself, with 360° views from the vineyards and dreamful landscapes. Every corner of this place is designed to offer the best architecture and art, standing out because of its spectacular gold ceiling made of titanium, a piece of art by Frank Gehry and Richard Serra, inspired by the mountains and typical wind from our country.

They also have spa experiences, horse riding through the vineyards, short walks and food tasting.

VIK contact:

Clos Apalta: The jewel of the Colchagua valley

Clos Apalta, another of the exclusive vineyards in Chile, is located in one of the most privileged terroirs of the Colchagua valley. Known for its iconic property located in a canyon, the vineyard managed to stand out internationally with high-class wines, which are reflected due to the passion for biodynamic viticulture.

If you are looking for an exclusive experience that combines luxury, nature and a total focus on the wine world, Residencia Clos Apalta is the perfect destination for you. Located in the natural Amphitheatre in the center of one of the most emblematic vineyards in Chile, this private household offers a personal and singular staying.

It’s the perfect place to get away and to navigate in the serenity of landscapes, surrounded by mountains and vineyards, while you enjoy the peace that a single and special place can offer. Every room in this household, acknowledged by Relais & Châteaux since 2011, offers impressive views from the vineyards of Apalta and the mountains around you. From the soft light of dawn to the last flickering of the sunset, the natural beauty will keep you company throughout the day, creating a perfect environment to lay down, reflect and disconnect.

Moreover, you can enjoy a gastronomic experience in the gourmet restaurant, where the cuisine merges with the local flavors, offering a feast for every sense. And if you are a wine lover, the food tasting room, equipped with state-of-the-art technology that will allow you to know closer the secrets of Clos Apalta, while you share your passion for wine with hedonic people and experts from all the world.

Clos Apalta contact:

Viu Manent: Tradition and state of the art in every bottle

Viña Viu Manent, with more than 80 years of history, has achieved a perfect balance between tradition and innovation. Located in the Colchagua valley, this vineyard has stood out because of the production of high-class wines which reflect the family legacy and love for terroir.

Vibo Wine Lodge in the Viu Manent vineyard offers a unique experience that combines luxury, comfort and wine tourism in one of the most prestigious destinations in Chile.

Imagine waking up surrounded by the magnificent vineyards of Malbec, in a peaceful and chill environment where every corner is designed to offer an intimate connection with nature. It will be incredible to enjoy one of the most exclusive vineyards in Chile!

Viu Manent contact:

Matetic: The perfect combination of nature and wine

Viña Matetic, in the Casablanca valley, is another reference of the luxury wine in Chile. Founded in the early 2000’s, the vineyard has consolidated itself quickly as one of the best organic and biodynamic wine producers in the country.

With a philosophy based on respect for nature and authenticity of terroir, Matetic has positioned its wines on international markets. You can stay in the hotel boutique that brings back the traditions and local identity of the year 1900, when the main building was built.

It has wide rooms, a swimming pool, sophisticated spaces. It’s perfect to have an authentic and different experience!

Viña Matetic contact:

 

The best cities in Chile according to what type of traveler you are

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In Chile you will not only find a variety of unique landscapes, which run from imposing glaciers to the driest desert in the world, but also multicultural, modern and colonial cities with an amazing architecture.

If you’re prepared to go on your dream trip, we will show you the city in Chile that you must visit according to what type of traveler you are. Urban, bohemian fans of nature, adventurers and chill, everyone has a place in our country!

Santiago, the capital of urban explorers

Santiago, the capital of Chile, is the perfect destination for urban and cultural travelers. Travelers who enjoy the noise of big cities will consider Santiago a diverse offer.

You can visit museums such as the Museum of Memory and Human Rights, the National Museum of Fine Arts or National Natural History Museum. Moreover, for shopping and cuisine fans, neighborhoods like Bellavista and Lastarria offer a wide variety of restaurants, bars, attractive shops and markets.

Urban adventurers can also enjoy spectacular views from the San Cristobal hill or Santa Lucia hill, which are located in the center of the city, and it’s perfect for a short walk or to take a stroll outdoors.

Valparaíso: A destination for bohemians

Valparaíso is a colorful and vibrant city that attracts especially bohemian and artistic travelers. Its architecture is unique, narrow streets are filled with urban art and its famous hills are perfect for those who look for an authentic cultural experience.

The port of Valparaiso, with its scenic elevators and with a lot of bars and restaurants, invites us to dive into its mazes full of history. Moreover, travelers interested in history and culture can visit Pablo Neruda’s house, La Sebastiana, and the National Maritime Museum, that gives the city a unique vibe of history and creativity.

Punta Arenas is for nature and adventure lovers

If you are a traveler looking for big adventures in incredible and challenging natural environments, we recommend you visit Punta Arenas, the entrance to the Magallanes Region and the Chilean Antarctic.

With its proximity to the Torres del Paine National Park and the well-known Isla Magdalena, where you can see penguins, it is a world class destination for travelers who are looking for outdoor activities such as hiking, fauna observation and navigation.

Tourists can also explore the Strait of Magellan, a key point in the history of navigation. For travelers who love extreme fauna and impressive landscapes, Punta Arenas is a unique experience at the end of the world.

Get to know Concepción, the city for rock fans

Concepción is key city for travelers interested in history, culture and music of Chile, especially those who enjoy instruments like guitar, bass and drums. That’s why it is known as the city of rock!

It is one of the main cities in the Biobío Region and it’s surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes such as Nonguén National Park, which offers ecotourism activities.

Travelers interested in the local culture can also enjoy music and theatrical festivals that stay for the whole year. Moreover, its closeness to the shore and ocean allows travelers to enjoy nearby beaches, like Dichato or Ramuntcho Beach.

Relax and natural connection in San Pedro de Atacama

Romantic Experiences San Pedro

San Pedro de Atacama, located in the driest desert in the world, is perfect for adventure travelers who want to explore unique and impressive landscapes.

A few kilometers away from Calama, where the closest airport is located, you’ll get to know the Moon Valley, with Altiplanic Lagoons and Tatio geysers, one of the biggest geothermal lands in the world.

In this environment you’ll find unique relaxing activities such as taking a bath in the hot springs of Puritama, floating in the salt waters on Cejar Lagoon or contemplating the stars at some of the local astronomic observatories, thanks to the clear skies and the low light pollution. The connection with nature is actually there!

Valdivia for ecotourism lovers

Valdivia is a perfect destination for travelers interested in ecotourism, history and colonial culture. This southern city, surrounded by lakes, forests and parks, offers a back-to-outdoor experience through activities like hiking and sailing trips on the Calle-Calle and Valdivia rivers.

You’ll get to know the Selva Valdiviana, a rainy forest located at the end of the world. In fact, it is the most southern in this category.

Travelers that enjoy history and architecture can also explore the German heritage in the city, visible in its buildings, breweries and typical cuisine. We recommend you visit the Botanical Garden at the Universidad Austral, the local museum, the Saval Park and the famous brewery Kunstmann.

Iquique, the paradise of extreme sports

Iquique is known for being the capital of adrenaline for adventure travelers. Located in the Atacama Desert, this coastal city is famous for its extreme sports, specially sandboarding, paragliding, surfing and stand-up paddle.

Travelers who look for strong emotions will find a wide variety of outdoor activities in Iquique.

Moreover, its colonial architecture in neighborhoods like Baquedano and the relaxing vibe makes the city a perfect place for those who like to combine adventure and resting. Iquique is also famous for its closeness to Isluga Volcano National Park.

Do not go to Carretera Austral without knowing this

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If you have already decided that your next trip is going to be the Carretera Austral in Chile, we will show you where it starts, how to travel around, its unmissable places and all the information that you should know.

The Carrera Austral, known as the most beautiful scenic route in the world, is a highway located in the south of Chile. It starts in the district of Puerto Montt and 1,247 kilometers later, there is a glacier bed near Villa O’Higgins.

It is ideal to hire a vehicle and start your dreamful road trip in Chile. You will love its forest, fauna, reserves, glaciers and national parks!

Where does it begin and how do I get to the Carretera Austral?

The Carretera Austral begins in Puerto Montt, a city where you can arrive by airplane, taking the flight that goes from Santiago to El Tepual airport.

However, the real starting point for the Carretera Austral is Hornopirén, which is less than three hours by land from Puerto Montt airport. Some of its unmissable places are Rio Blanco waterfall, Hornopirén National Park and El Manzano cove.

The Carrera Austral has forests, glaciers and national parks. Photo: Sernatur audiovisual bank.

Unmissable places on the Carretera Austral

The the Carretera Austral is known around the world for its unique beauty, and because it will always show you something new. Whether it’s a small town that you have never heard of, a different landscape or the people you meet on the way, you will love everything.

Anyhow, there are some destinations considered as “unmissables” by the most experienced travelers. Get to know them!

Carretera Austral

The Marble Caves are an unmissable part of the Carretera Austral in Chile. Photo: Sernatur audiovisual bank.

Carretera Austral map

If you have already made up your mind to travelon the Carretera Austral from north to south and to have unique adventures, you have to consider that there are different entry points and ways to move around.

You can move around by vehicle, bicycle or ferry!

Do I need a VISA for Chile? Entry requirements for the European Union

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If you are keen on coming to Chile from a European country, you must know the entry requirements for our country. We will answer your questions!

If you are from Spain, Germany, France, Italy or from the United Kingdom, and you are planning on traveling to Chile this year, it is necessary that you know every entry requirement for Chile, with attractive nature located at the end of the world.

Do I need a VISA for Chile?

While some countries from around the world need previous authorization to enter Chile or a VISA, the majority of the nations of the European Union don’t need it if the stay is up to 90 days.

As a result of this, if you have a Spanish, German, French, Italian, or British passport, you won’t have to go through any additional procedure.

Bear in mind that if you want to stay for more than 90 days in the country, you may ask for an extension for your stay at the Servicio Nacional de Migraciones, dependent on the Home Office.

Requirements to come to Chile

Even if a VISA is not necessary if you come from a European country, you must meet other requirements.

  • Have ready your hotel booking in order to be verified, or an invitation letter signed in the presence of the Chilean notary. Always prefer accommodations registered with Sernatur, which you can check on the search section clicking here.
  • You also must show your certification of finances through a copy of the bank account or otherwise, to certify the possession of, at least, USD $ 46per day to stay in Chile.
  • Have your passport or your ID to hand, as appropriate. Click here for more information.

Mandatory requirements to enter Rapa Nui

Once you are in Chile, you will be probably interested in visiting Rapa Nui Island and getting to know the stunning moais, its culture, cuisine and traditional dance. You may know that this territory has its own requirements which are summarized below.

  • You must fill out a Unique Entry Form in advance to land on Rapa Nui. You can find the document clicking here.
  • Have your return ticket ready with a limit of 30 days, including the departure and arrival dates.
  • Book a tourist service registered with SERNATUR , or an invitation letter processed by the Provincial Delegation
  • A guide is required to enter the facilities and lands which belong to the Rapa Nui National Park
  • Get your ticket to have a look at the Rapa Nui National Park online here.
  • You cannot enter with Melliferous products (derived from honey)

From One Piece to Pokémon! References to Chile in animes

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The most famous animes and mangas in history have their eyes on Chile and constantly make incredible references to our country.

One Piece, Pokémon, and Knights of the Zodiac are some of the Japanese animes that have referred to or mentioned Chile during their time on air.

Just like Pirate Luffy from One Piece, our country is one of the main characters in these animations that have captivated the international audience with their adventures, jokes, and airtime.

One Piece and its tight relationship with Chilean wine

Chilean wine is internationally known by winemakers, consumers, and lovers of this drink.

In countries like Japan, it is common to see shelves in supermarkets, convenience stores, department stores, and liquor stores, filled with this grape wine.

Chilean wine is so famous in Japanese lands that in episode 509 of the anime One Piece titled “Contact! The Great Swordsman Mihawk – Zoro’s Struggle of Willpower,” you can see a bottle of Chilean wine with the written phrase “Tarapacá,” name of one of the 15 Chilean regions. This happens in minute 4:57 of said episode.

It is known by the fans of the series that its creator, the mangaka Eiichirō Oda, loves wine.

One of the characters from One Piece, the marine lieutenant commander, Fullbody, even has that name because of the concept of “full body,” which is given to wines of great texture and weight in the mouth, but it would not be weird for him to be a fan of the national wine. It is really delicious!

Mewtwo and Probopass, the Chilean Pokémon

Thanks to Mew’s DNA on February 6th, one of the most iconic and powerful Pokémon was created, Mewtwo. What only a few people know is that this psychic type was born on Isla Nueva, a territory that belongs to Chile in real life.

Isla Nueva is an insular territory in the south of Chile, in the southeastern part of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago at the southernmost tip of South America.

Another reference to Chile in the anime is related to Probopass (in the main picture), a fourth-generation Pokémon inspired by the Moais of Rapa Nui. It also wears a pukao on its head, or a hat made of red volcanic scoria.

The Chilean Knight of the Zodiac

You have surely heard of the adventures of Saint Seiya and the Knights of the Zodiac, but you probably do not know that one of its characters is Chilean!

We are talking about Scylla Io, who appeared in the anime in episode 102, when he faced Andromeda Shun to protect the Pillar of the South Pacific.

According to the manga that inspired the Knights of the Zodiac, Scylla Io was born on the island of San Félix, part of the Juan Fernández Archipelago. Moreover, during his teenage years, he lived in Santiago and studied at the Instituto Nacional, one of the most emblematic educational establishments in our country.

“Traditional Route” in Chile, Unique Products and Their Cultural Heritage Value

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If you have come this far, it is because you want to learn in-depth about Chile’s “Traditional Route,” which is made up of products created by artisan women that you can find only in our country.

Chilean craftsmanship directly reflects the culture and traditions rooted in our territory from north to south, from the mountains to the sea. When you buy Chilean craftwork, you also bring a piece of our country into your home.

Keep reading and discovering their manufacturers, who brought unique and unrepeatable works of art to life.

The amazing wheat braiding of Itata

The products made of wheat straw use a single braid technique, which combines naturally dyed straw with trees and fruits native to our territory.

This craft of braiding wheat is one of the symbols of Chile, and it comes from the district of Ninhue in the Itata Valley, Ñuble region. As a matter of fact, the chupalla, a traditional hat used by the Chilean huaso, is crafted using this technique that local families have preserved.

According to the artisan Marcela Parra, the elaboration process is complex, and the product is handmade from start to finish. It starts with harvesting old wheat that is only sowed in the Itata Valley, and after that, the colchanera women start braiding it. In that way, unique products, like wall decorations, baskets, chupallas, and others, are crafted.

Wheat espigueros made by Marcela Parra. Photo: Red Artesanía.

Traditional Pottery from Quinchamalí

In Chile, you will find Quinchamalí pottery, also from the Itata Valley. These pieces are known for their striking black color and distinctive decorative shapes.

The dyeing of this ancestral technique is made of horse guano and was created by our native peoples, mainly by the Mapuche. It is still alive, thanks to the talented hands of the artisans.

Nayadet Núñez is one of them, known by the Chilean State as a Living Human Treasure. She is a well-known Chilean potter who has dedicated her life to preserving and renovating the rich tradition of Quinchamalí pottery.

Her efforts were worthy of the Regional Craftsmanship Award in 2022, a testimony to her commitment to the culture and art of her land.

Nayadet is part of the artisanNow platform, which seeks to reduce inequality and generate sustainable financial freedom for thousands of artisan women in Chile and Latin America, strengthening their economic autonomy and preserving their cultural identity.

Nayadet Núñez poses next to one of her creations. Photo: UPA Chillán

Rari mane and its colorful art

And what about those butterflies? How can we not see them, since the horsehair butterflies in the Maule Region will never go unnoticed. This type of craftsmanship is made in a small town in Central Chile named Rari, which was recognized by the World Crafts Council as a World Craft City.

Once these natural fibers are cleaned, the local artisans begin weaving and creating beautiful pieces inspired by the flora and fauna surrounding them.

A total of 45 artisan women from Rari participate in the project and digital platform Artesanías Chilenas, where their products can be purchased.

In addition to these beautiful butterflies, they elaborate other products such as necklaces, earrings, and glass markers, among others.