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Chile


Chile is a country of breathtaking landscapes and incredible diversity, stretching from the vibrant streets of Santiago to the otherworldly beauty of the Atacama Desert.

While many know Chile for Patagonia, the country has so much more to offer families, from colourful coastal cities like Valparaíso to unique natural wonders like the Concón Dunes and the iconic Hand of the Desert.

Chile is perfect for families who love adventure, nature, and discovering places off the beaten path. Whether you’re exploring street art, running through sand dunes, or marvelling at the moon-like landscapes of the Atacama, Chile is full of unforgettable experiences for both kids and parents.

A woman and two children stand in front of the massive 'Hand of the Desert' sculpture (Mano del Desierto) in Chile’s Atacama Desert. The giant stone hand rises from the barren, sandy landscape under a bright blue sky with wispy clouds, surrounded by distant, arid mountains.
Hand of the Desert
Concon Dunes

Language


The official language is Spanish, and while English is spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic Spanish phrases will make travelling easier, especially in smaller towns.
Some common phrases are:
Hello – Hola (OH-lah)
Thank you – Gracias (GRAH-syahs)
Please – Por favor (pohr fah-VOHR)
Do you speak English? – ¿Habla inglés? (AH-blah een-GLAYS?)

currency


Chile uses the Chilean peso (CLP) as its official currency. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to carry cash for smaller shops and more remote areas.

Best Time to Visit

Chile’s seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere. Summer (December to February) is great for exploring the coast and Atacama Desert, while spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Winter (June to August) brings snow to the Andes, perfect for skiing and mountain adventures.

At a glance

Our experience in Chile

I didn’t know much about Chile before our trip—aside from seeing photos of Patagonia—but after nearly three weeks exploring the country, I was blown away by how stunning and diverse it is. From vibrant street art in Valparaíso to the otherworldly landscapes of the Atacama Desert, it’s a country that surprised us at every turn. Since my kids were still small, we skipped Patagonia’s challenging hikes and focused on other parts of the country, and we loved every minute.

The Concón Dunes was a definite highlight for my kids—they could’ve spent days running up and down those massive dunes. But the real surprise was the Atacama Desert – a place I hadn’t even heard of until I started planning the trip. It turned out to be one of the most fascinating places we’ve ever visited, with towering cacti, moon-like landscapes, turquoise salt flats, and vicuñas wandering by the roadside. We even made the long drive to see the famous Hand of the Desert—a trek that was totally worth it.

Chile is full of unexpected adventures, and it’s a place we’d love to return to. The mix of nature, culture, and wide-open spaces makes it an unforgettable destination for families.

  • Transportation Tip: We rented a car twice in Chile, and it was the easiest way to explore the coast and the Atacama Desert. For a smooth rental experience, we recommend Discover Cars.
Explore

Chile

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