Chile Itinerary & Travel Guide - Santiago + Atacama Desert
Days 1-4: Santiago - Art and Culture Exploration
Day 1: Arrival in Santiago
Arrive in Santiago, settle into your accommodation, and enjoy a relaxing evening. Consider staying in and exploring the Bellavista neighborhood for its vibrant street art and cozy cafes. Hike or take the funicular to Cerro San Cristobal for panoramic views of Santiago, or in the evening, take a walk along the Mapocho River and admire the city lights.
Day 2: Lastarria District + Museum of Fine Arts
Visit the Chilean National Museum of Fine Arts, showcasing an impressive collection of Chilean and international art. Stroll through the Lastarria district, known for its charming streets, boutiques, and art galleries. Enjoy dinner at Bocanáriz, a wine bar with an extensive selection. Hike or take the funicular to Cerro San Cristobal for panoramic views of Santiago. After, visit the Sanctuary and reward yourself with a delightful meal in the nearby neighborhoods.
Day 3: Barrio Italia and Plaza de Armas
Spend the afternoon in Barrio Italia, known for its vintage shops and art spaces. Snag a pick-me-up cup of coffee at Café de la Candelaria. You could even spend some time at the Bellas Artes Museum, appreciating Chilean and international art. Immerse yourself in history at Plaza de Armas, exploring the Cathedral and Presidential Palace. Enjoy lunch at Mercado Central, savoring fresh seafood dishes.
Find the restaurant Catedral 1081 on Catedral Street to indulge in a delicious Peruvian chicken meal.
Day 4: Pre-Columbian Art Museum and Santa Lucía Hill
Visit the Pre-Columbian Art Museum to delve into Chile's indigenous history. Take a leisurely stroll up Santa Lucía Hill for panoramic views of the city. In the evening, dine at Castillo Forestal for a cultural and culinary experience. End the day with a leisurely stroll through Barrio Lastarria, discovering charming cafes, street art, and the vibrant atmosphere.
Pre-Columbian Art Museum
Days 5-11: San Pedro de Atacama - Desert Wonders
Day 5: Arrival in San Pedro de Atacama
Arrive in San Pedro de Atacama and relax after your journey. Indulge in a meal at Adobe, known for its innovative use of local ingredients and the BEST steak frites we’ve ever had. Overall, the food in San Pedro was AMAZING, with a wide range of cuisine you will plentiful choices during your stay. Consider renting a 4x4 vehicle for easy navigation on your own time through the Atacama.
most perfect steak frites at Adobe
Day 6: Valle De La Luna and Valle De Arcoiris
Start with breakfast at Roots! Explore the Moon Valley (Valle de la Luna) for otherworldly landscapes and colors. Later, visit Rainbow Valley (Valle de Arcoiris) a geological wonder of rainbow-hued hills. Be careful of popped tires! Enjoy a meal at Blanco Restaurant, offering Andean cuisine.
scrambled egg breakfast at Roots
Day 7: Tropic of Capricorn and Laguna Miscante and Miniques
Embark on a journey to the Tropic of Capricorn sign on the highway while you continue to Laguna Miscante and Miniques for beautiful volcanic lakes for stunning views surrounded by Flamingoes. Have lunch at Baltinache, a local favorite with a cuisine of Indigenous Fusion.
Day 8: El Tatio Geysers
Wake up early to experience the geothermal wonders of El Tatio Geysers at sunrise. Keep an eye out for Vicuña on your drive up! When we visited, the El Tatio Park pool was closed so check out Puritama Hot Springs nearby for some relaxation. End your day at La Casona, a restaurant with a cozy atmosphere.
Days 9-11: Atacama Desert Exploration
Explore local markets for artisanal crafts and fresh produce, definitely think about going home with a poncho! Visit sites like Pukará de Quitor and Tulor for archaeological wonders. Enjoy sunset at the Valle de la Muerte to reflect on the incredible landscapes and your unique experiences.
we both went home with an alpaca poncho!
Days 12-14: Santiago - Final Cultural Soiree
Day 12: Return to Santiago
Return to Santiago and unwind. Spend the afternoon at Parque Metropolitano (the largest urban park in Chile) with walkways through green space, cable cars, a zoo, historic statues, multiple pools for a dose of nature. Have dinner at Zully, offering Chilean-Mediterranean fusion.
Day 13: Santiago's Civic District
Explore Santiago's civic district, including La Moneda Palace and Plaza de Armas. Visit the Museum of Memory and Human Rights for a poignant look at Chile's history. End the day with dinner at Castillo Hidalgo, a historic venue with stunning city views.
Day 14: Farewell with a Flair
Visit the Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art for a cultural farewell. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Emporio La Rosa for delectable desserts. Take a taxi to the airport and depart with fond memories of Chile's rich cultural tapestry and warm hospitality.