Chile

Stretching its way down South America’s eastern coast, Chile is among the continent’s most prosperous countries and welcomes more than two million visitors a year.

With the vast and dry Atacama Desert to the north, the Pacific Ocean caressing the east coast and the Andes Mountains stretching along the spine of the country, it’s little wonder Chile holidays offer incredible natural diversity and beauty, including forests, glaciers, mountains.

The Marble Caves (Cuevas de Marmol) are a simply stunning natural masterpiece. Hidden beneath a peninsula in Lago Carrera General, by the small town of Puerto Rio Tranquilo, the turquoise waters reflect sunlight onto the caves’ ceilings, creating a truly unique and mesmerising spectacle.

Outdoors enthusiasts will adore the hiking options holidays in Chile have to offer. Torres del Paine – a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve towards the south of the country – provides 250 kilometres of trails to explore, as you traverse mountains, valleys, glaciers and crystal-clear lakes. Just don’t forget to watch out for the pumas! Accommodation in the Reserve is as diverse as the landscape, with expensive luxury hotels, camping or refugios (basic cabins) the options.

The lively city of Iquique in the north of the country provides the best options for beach holidays in Chile. Playa Cavancha is a great spot for both watersports and sunbathing.

But in Santiago, Chile boasts a world-class city too. Glass skyscrapers, mountain ranges and historic buildings are just a few of the sights the capital has to offer. Its European influence coupled with ancient tradition makes it a charming and unique city.

Take a trip up Sky Costanera, a skyscraper with a 360-degree viewing platform at nearly 1,000 feet, providing breath-taking views across the city and the Andes. You can also enjoy great views from the top of San Cristobal Hill which, luckily, can be accessed via a cable car if you don’t fancy the walk.

Meanwhile, just 90 minutes outside Santiago’s borders, you can ski and snowboard at Valle Nevado, plus it’s a great spot for hiking and biking in the summer months.