From adventure routes to journeys through fjords and glaciers, Chile has plenty to offer those seeking unforgettable experiences in South America.
Chile won four awards at the 2026 World Travel Awards (WTA) South America, known as the “Oscars of Tourism”! The country was recognized as South America’s Best Adventure Tourism Destination, Best Cruise Destination, and Best Green Destination. In addition, Chile’s National Tourism Service (Sernatur) was named the region’s Best Tourism Office.
2026 World Travel Awards: The categories where Chile triumphed
1. Best Adventure Tourism Destination
From the arid Atacama Desert to the glaciers of Patagonia, Chile offers settings for adventure from north to south. You can hike mountain trails, go sandboarding among the dunes, raft down rivers, or kayak across lakes and coastlines. Add to this volcanoes, peaks, and routes that invite you to discover the country through outdoor activities.
- Trekking in Southern Chile: 10 Must-Do Routes
- Magical Heights! 8 Places in Chile That Will Make You Feel Small
- Adventure on Chile’s rivers: kayaking, rafting, and hydrospeed
- Adventures in Chile: Horseback riding, sandboarding, cycling and more
2. Best Cruise Destination
For the second year in a row, Chile was named South America’s Best Cruise Destination. Its routes let you discover the country from the sea: from the ports of Valparaíso, San Antonio, and Puerto Montt to the fjords and glaciers of Chilean Patagonia.
Punta Arenas, Puerto Natales, and Puerto Williams bring travelers closer to the southernmost tip of the continent, while Rapa Nui and the Juan Fernández archipelago expand the possibilities for exploring Chile’s islands.
- Cruises from Chile to explore the Pacific
- Antarctica cruises from Chile: the gateway to the White Continent
- Antarctic Trips from Chile: How to Experience What Michael Douglas and Nicole Kidman Did
3. Best Green Destination
Chile has once again been named Best Green Destination in the region, a distinction it also received in 2024 and 2025. Its 46 national parks and nature reserves protect native forests, wetlands, lakes, and glaciers, as well as habitats home to wildlife such as flamingos, condors, guanacos, and pumas.
These spaces invite visitors to observe wildlife and discover the ecosystems that make Chile a prime destination for connecting with nature.
- Discover Chile’s National Parks: Which one is your favorite?
- Why the Andes Mountains make Chile a one-of-a-kind refuge
- 7 Chilean Salt Flats That Will Amaze You, and How to Visit Them
- They’re so cute! Chile’s most adorable animals and where to find them
4. Best Tourism Office
The fourth award went to Chile’s National Tourism Service (SERNATUR), named South America’s Best Tourism Office 2026. The agency promotes Chile’s tourism offerings, bringing its destinations and experiences to travelers from around the world.
Its work helps showcase the many ways to explore Chile, from outdoor experiences to cultural heritage. This recognition highlights the effort behind promoting the country as an international tourist destination.
