Chile is one of the HOTTEST travel destinations this year with a record 5.4 million international visitors expected. Lonely Planet have even ranked it as one of the best places in the world to travel in 2016!
The rapid growth of Chile as a tourist destination has fueled the economy with the development of more hotels and tourism facilities to meet the growing demand.
So, why is Chile oh so HOT right now?
1.) It's Cheap!
The value of the dollar means that coming from the US, you’ll have more spending money which = more exploring, shopping, eating and nicer hotels. The Chilean unit of currency is the peso (CH$). Bank notes come in denominations of 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10,000 and 20,000 pesos. Coin values are one, five, 10, 50, 100 and 500 pesos, although one-peso coins are fast disappearing, and even fives and tens are uncommon. Current Conversion Rate (Buy/Sell) CLP/USD = 651.11.
2.) It’s Easy to Get There
Chile is becoming more and more accessible with American, Delta and LATAM offering direct, daily flights to Santiago from many US cities.
3.) You Can Pre-Book National Park Campsites
The growing popularity of the stunning Torres del Paine National Park means that you can now book refugios and campsites in advance, so you don’t have to worry about not being able to find a place to sleep once you’re there.
4.) It’s a Gateway to the Rest of South America
It’s a great base from which to explore the rest of South America.
5.) Your Winter Escape
Chile is in the southern hemisphere so when it’s cold and wet back home you can pop down to Chile to enjoy a second warm and dry summer or even experience Christmas and New Year’s on the beach!
6.) Stunning Scenery
Many photographers rank it as one of the best countries in the world for photography so you can snap up some pics that’ll take your Instagram, Pinterest, and other social media to the next level.
7.) Unique Wildlife
Whales, Orcas (Killer Whales), Seals, Alpacas, Pumas (Puma tracking tours) and Penguins are just some of the animals you can see in Chile.
8.) It’s an Outdoor Adventurers Paradise
Stunning beaches, volcanoes, glaciers, impenetrable forest and the stunningly snow-capped peaks of the Andes are all waiting to be explored. Chile has it all!
9.) Pochito (the happy-drowsy feeling following a satisfying feast)
Pronounced po-chee-to, this Chilean slang word perfectly describes how you’ll feel after tasting Chilean cuisine. With world class wine in Chile, soulful dishes and modern takes on traditional favorites, Chile will be a favorite with the foodies.
10.) It’s A Top Destination to Celebrate New Year’s Eve
The picturesque seaside city of ValparaĂso is home to the biggest New Year’s Eve fireworks show in all of Latin America. If you’re looking for a large party, join 1 million people for a 3-day beach bash with live music and confetti-filled streets. Don’t forget to wear yellow underwear! Traditionally, it’s good luck.
While Chile’s tourism officials are busy developing more hotels and tourism facilities to handle its new HOT status, get busy planning your next adventure by downloading our FREE Chilean and Patagonian itinerary and travel information.