Chile is not just a destination of extreme nature and imposing landscapes: it’s also a privileged stage for experiencing sports.
In our country, you can participate in marathons and triathlons in extreme landscapes, as well as watch soccer, tennis, and surfing competitions at world-class venues. From the Atacama Desert in the north to Patagonia in the south, passing through cities with excellent infrastructure, here we tell you about sports tourism in Chile.
Photo: Sernatur Los Ríos
What are the main sporting events in Chile?
1. Ironman 70.3 Pucón: South America’s Most Iconic Triathlon
Every year, during the first days of January, Pucón transforms into the epicenter of sports tourism in Chile with its legendary Ironman 70.3 Pucón.
This race is world-famous as “the most beautiful race in the world”: a challenge where you swim, bike, and run with privileged views of Lake Villarrica and the imposing nature of the Araucanía Region.
Additionally, starting in 2026, the challenge will expand throughout the south of the country with new editions in Puerto Varas and Valdivia, increasing the number of spots for those who want to take part in this extreme competition.
2. Santiago Marathon: Running with the Andes in the Background
Every May, the Santiago Marathon brings together thousands of runners from around the world in a massive race through the capital.
Considered one of the country’s main sporting celebrations, this competition attracts participants from around the world in distances of 10K, 21K, and 42K. Its route through iconic avenues, along with the energy of the crowd and the imposing Andes Mountains as a backdrop, position it as a must-see on the South American calendar.
3. Patagonian International Marathon: Running at the End of the World
The Patagonian International Marathon is a legendary event that brings together runners from over 70 countries in Torres del Paine, one of the most pristine landscapes on the planet. With views like Paine Grande and the Cuernos del Paine, the route offers distances of 42K, 21K, 15K, and 10K, combining technical challenge with the unique beauty of Chilean Patagonia.
The event takes place in early September. For 2026, there are still spots available for those looking to experience one of the main sporting events in Chile in the midst of Patagonian nature.
4. Rally Chile Biobío: Speed in the Southern Forests
The Biobío Region has established itself as the motorsports capital of South America by hosting the WRC Rally Chile Biobío, the only round of the World Rally Championship on the continent. This competition stands out globally for its technical and fast routes that wind through dense timber forests and offer spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, challenging the world’s best drivers in a privileged natural setting.
The event, which typically takes over the southern routes in late September, turns the city of Concepción and its surroundings into a hotbed of adrenaline.
5. ATP Santiago: Tennis at the Foot of the Mountains
The Chile Open is a key stop on the “Golden Swing,” the prestigious South American clay court tour. Every year, this ATP 250 tournament brings together top figures from the circuit in San Carlos de Apoquindo, Santiago.
What makes this sporting event in Chile unique is its imposing backdrop: the Andes Mountains. Visible from the venue, it creates a unique setting that transforms every match into an unforgettable experience for tennis fans.
6. Surfing in Pichilemu: World-Class Waves
Pichilemu is a city recognized as the world surfing capital. Its waves, especially at Punta de Lobos, attract elite athletes year-round. For this reason, it hosts international championships such as the Punta de Lobos Pro and the big wave tournament Lobos por Siempre.
It’s worth noting that you don’t need to be a professional to experience surfing in Chile. In Pichilemu, you’ll find surf schools where beginners of all ages can take lessons and connect with the vibrant local culture.
7. National Soccer Championship
Soccer is the most popular sport in our country, and matches in Chile’s First Division are the sporting events with the largest attendance. With 30 matchdays throughout the year, 16 teams compete in a tournament that mobilizes thousands of fans across Chile.
From north to south, each city has its stadium and its representative club in the tournament. If you’d like to experience one of the greatest passions of our territory, attending a match is an authentic way to experience the local culture.
