Central Chile Holidays

Central Chile

Encounter the big personalities of Chile’s largest cities, discover valleys latticed with vineyards, relax at beach resorts and learn about the cult of Chilean cowboys.

Central Chile is the country’s heartland, where its two largest cities sprawl out to fringes marked by emerald vineyards, the coastal range toward the west and the Andes to the east. Discover the vibrancy of Santiago and Valparaíso, experience the pastoral beauty of the Central Valley or make your way to seaside villages and ski resorts.

The historic old town of Santiago is enclosed by the urban spread of Chile’s capital city, where skyscrapers emerge from the winding colonial streets. See some of the country’s best-preserved neoclassical architecture and visit fascinating museums dedicated to pre-Columbian cultures, natural history and art. 

Just under 90 minutes’ drive northwest from Santiago is Valparaíso. This coastal city retains its 19th-century grandeur in its magnificent mansions and heritage-listed hilltop neighbourhoods, which have been renewed by the colourful touch of street art. Ride the city’s scenic old funiculars and enjoy unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean.

Further afield, you’ll find the quiet beauty of the Central Valley’s rural landscapes. Visit historic haciendas or join a local rodeo to see the Chilean huaso, or cowboy, in action. 

Explore the city of Concepción, which sits on the Bío Bío River and is dotted with historical relics from clashes between the Spanish and the Mapuche.

See old-growth forests and remote Andean waterways in Los Lagos. Beautiful Vichuquén and the Maule Valley are renowned for their wines and pastoral scenery.

Venture up into the coastal hills to the west to find picturesque lakes, such as Lago Rapel, or pass over the ridge to reach the charming seaside towns of the Pacific Coast. Pichilemu is popular spot with surfers, while Viña del Mar is renowned for its indulgent resort beaches.

Travel east to explore the Andean landscape on a horseback-riding tour or go hiking in the Reserva Nacional Altos del Lircay. Soothe your muscles after a day of walking or skiing in the hot springs of Nevados de Chillán.

Central Chile is easily accessible via the international airport in Santiago. Intercity buses are a cheap way to explore the region. Visit between October and March to avoid high rainfall in the southerly regions of Central Chile. 

On Independence Day, September 18, head to rural Central Chile to visit outdoor ballrooms filled with local cowboys dancing the cueca.