Chile unveiled: top activities for adventure seekers

With a range of diverse landscapes and experiences to offer, Chile is a top destination for adventure travellers. Its many tourist activities provide with an exciting adrenaline rush and unforgettable memories. In this article, we will have a look at some of the top activities.

Trekking the W circuit in Torres del Paine

Torres del Paine National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is home to the iconic W trek. This multi-day hike takes adventurers through breathtaking landscapes, including the Grey Glacier, French Valley, and the towering Torres peaks. The Torres del Paine W trek typically takes 5 days to complete, and requires a moderate fitness level.

The best time to do the W trek is during the Austral summer (December to February) when weather conditions are most favourable. However, be prepared for strong winds and occasional rainfall. Trekkers can choose to stay in mountain huts or camp along the route. With its stunning vistas and challenging terrain, the W trek is an unforgettable experience for adventure seekers!

Sandboarding in the Atacama Desert

The Atacama Desert, the driest non-polar desert in the world, attracts adventure travellers with its unique landscapes and thrilling activities. Sandboarding is one of the most popular sports here - it involves riding down sand dunes on a specially designed board.

Valle de la Muerte (Death Valley) and Cerro Dragón (Dragon Hill) are two popular spots for sandboarding in the Atacama. Local tour operators offer sandboarding excursions, providing equipment and guidance for beginners. No prior experience is necessary, so it’s an accessible activity for adrenaline enthusiasts of all skill levels.

Whitewater rafting on the Futaleufú river

The Futaleufú River, located in the Los Lagos Region of Chile, is known for its world-class rapids and stunning scenery. The river offers a range of rafting adventures, from gentle rapids suitable for beginners to exhilarating ones that challenge even the most experienced rafters!

Rafting season on the Futaleufú runs from December to March, with January and February being the peak months. Professional guides are available to ensure a safe and fun experience. However, visitors should be prepared for cold water temperatures and have a good level of physical fitness.

Paragliding in Iquique

Iquique is a coastal city in northern Chile, known for its great paragliding opportunities. The city has quite stable weather conditions with consistent thermal winds, which create an ideal environment for this sport. Beginners can enjoy tandem flights with experienced pilots, while certified paragliders can take solo flights and explore the stunning coastline by themselves.

To arrange a paragliding session, visitors can contact local paragliding schools or tour operators. Tandem flights typically last 15–30 minutes and require no prior experience. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. Paragliding in Iquique is not only an adventurous experience, but also an amazing way to experience the beauty of Chile and its nature.

Climbing Volcano Villarrica

Volcano Villarrica is one of Chile’s most active volcanoes, however, brave adventure enthusiasts can enjoy a thrilling climbing experience on it. The climb takes you up to the summit at 2,847 meters and takes roughly 6–8 hours to complete. Once you reach the top, you can enjoy the views of an active crater, surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of lakes and mountains. Keep in mind that joining a guided tour is required for this activity, as you will be provided with the necessary equipment and safety instructions.

Additionally, the volcano is located in the Araucanía region near the town of Pucón, where you can also find some thrilling experiences, such as water sports and hiking trails. The town is often referred to as the adventure tourism hub of Chile, which so many different activities available around!

Horseback riding in the Chilean Patagonia

For a more relaxed yet equally fun adventure, consider horseback riding in the Chilean Patagonia. This activity provides an interesting way to explore the stunning landscapes of this infamous region. You can book a guided horseback tour, which will be led by experienced guides.

The rides can range from a few hours to multi-day excursions, catering to all skill levels. As you ride through the lush terrains of Patagonia, you will get the chance to connect with nature and experience the traditional lifestyle of local cowboys. It truly is a memorable addition to your Chilean adventure!

Surfing in Pichilemu

The charming coastal town of Pichilemu, located in the O'Higgins region, is a top surfing spot due to its favourable weather conditions. The most popular surf spot is Punta de Lobos, with consistent waves throughout the year, but you can find quieter spots around here. Pichilemu is welcoming to surfers of all skill levels - there are schools and rental shops available for beginners, while seasoned pros have all the essential facilities too.

The best time to surf in Pichilemu is from March to May and September to November, when the waves are most favourable. The best part about this town is its laid-back and friendly atmosphere, which visitors simply cannot help but fall in love with.

Final thoughts

Chile truly has no shortage of adventures - travellers from all walks of life can find an activity that will allow them to explore this breathtaking country in a unique and exciting way!