Chile Holidays

Chile stretches across so many climates that there’s always somewhere good to go. November to March is the best time for Patagonia and the Lake District, with the warmest weather and longest days. The Atacama Desert can be visited all year, with crisp, clear skies for stargazing in the southern winter (June to August). March and April are harvest time in the wine valleys. Tell us when you’d like to travel, and we’ll suggest the best route.

British travellers visiting Chile for less than 90 days don’t need a visa. When you arrive, immigration will record your entry and give you a Tourist Card (Tarjeta de Turismo), which may be on paper or electronic. Keep it safe: you’ll need it when you leave the country, and hotels may ask to see it, as foreign visitors paying in US dollars are usually exempt from Chile’s 19% hotel tax. Entry rules can change, so for the latest requirements, see the UK government’s travel advice for Chile

Easter Island is one of the top cultural attractions to tick off on holidays to Chile. The remote landmass is famed for the fascinating megalithic statues known as Moai, which lie along its coastline. They are said to represent ancestral chiefs who were believed to be direct descendants of the gods.

Santiago is another of the top cultural attractions to tick off while on holiday in Chile. Almost half of the country’s entire population lives in this buzzing cosmopolitan destination. Here you can visit the Royal Court Palace (home to the National History Museum) and the Metropolitan Cathedral, which traces back to the 18th century.

Another of the best cultural spots to visit during Chile holidays is the wine region. This area produces some of the most highly regarded wines in the world, thanks to its remarkable soil diversity and varying microclimates. It’s no surprise that wine plays a significant role in Chilean culture.

Prepare to embark on the culinary adventure of a lifetime during your holiday in Chile. The country’s remarkable biodiversity, multiple climates and diverse landscapes leave a wealth of exciting ingredients at the fingertips of Chileans, which results in a magnificent variety of local dishes.

One of the most famous local specialities is empanadas. They consist of crispy dough stuffed with ingredients like beef, onions and raisins, which is then baked or fried. Another classic Chilean dish is Cazuela.

This hearty delicacy features a stew filled with beef, chicken or lamb, along with pumpkin, corn and potato. Typical ingredients to expect throughout dishes during your holiday to Chile include squash, potatoes, onions, rice and tomatoes. You’ll also find most plates garnished with fresh coriander or parsley, and plenty of excellent seafood along the coast.