Chile-5-day-itinerary

August 8, 2024

Chile Travel Itinerary: 5-Day Adventure

Arrival: Arrive at Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) in Santiago
Visa Requirements: Citizens of the US, Canada, EU countries, and Australia do not need a visa for tourism or business stays up to 90 days. Check with your local Chilean embassy or consulate for requirements.
Getting Around: Take a taxi or Uber from the airport to your hotel in the city center (approximately $10-$15 USD)
Hotel: Stay at a hotel in the Providencia neighborhood, such as the Pullman Santiago or similar
Evening Activities:
- Explore the trendy neighborhood of Lastarria and its many bars, restaurants, and shops
- Visit the iconic Plaza de Armas and surrounding historic buildings

Transportation: Take a bus or taxi from Santiago to Valparaíso (approximately $5-$10 USD)
Morning Activities:
- Explore the colorful streets of Valparaíso’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Visit the iconic La Sebastiana house, now a museum and former residence of Pablo Neruda
Afternoon Activities:
- Take a funicular ride to the top of Cerro Concepción for panoramic views of the city
- Wander through the narrow streets and alleys of the old town
Evening Activities:
- Enjoy dinner at one of Valparaíso’s many seafood restaurants
- Explore the lively nightlife in the neighborhood of Bellavista

Transportation: Take a bus or taxi from Valparaíso to La Serena (approximately $20-$30 USD)
Morning Activities:
- Visit the stunning Cathedral of La Serena, one of the oldest and most beautiful in Chile
- Explore the historic center and its many colonial-era buildings
Afternoon Activities:
- Relax on the beach at Playa del Inglés, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike
- Visit the nearby town of Coquimbo, known for its seafood market and beautiful coastline
Evening Activities:
- Enjoy dinner at one of La Serena’s many restaurants serving traditional Chilean cuisine

Transportation: Take a bus or domestic flight from La Serena to Pucon (approximately $50-$100 USD)
Morning Activities:
- Visit the stunning Lake Villarrica, located in the heart of the Andes mountain range
- Explore the town of Pucon and its many shops, restaurants, and outdoor activity centers
Afternoon Activities:
- Take a boat tour on Lake Villarrica or rent a kayak to explore the lake’s many inlets
- Visit the nearby Hot Springs, a natural hot spring located in the midst of a forest
Evening Activities:
- Enjoy dinner at one of Pucon’s many restaurants serving traditional Chilean cuisine

Transportation: Take a bus or domestic flight from Pucon back to Santiago (approximately $50-$100 USD)
Morning Activities:
- Visit the iconic San Cristóbal Hill, offering panoramic views of the city
- Explore the trendy neighborhood of Bella Vista and its many shops, restaurants, and bars
Afternoon Activities:
- Return your rental car or take a taxi back to the airport for your departure flight
- Last-minute shopping or relaxation at your hotel

Additional Tips and Information

Chile is generally a safe country to visit, but petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas. Be mindful of your belongings and keep valuables secure.
Tap water is not always safe to drink in some areas, so stick to bottled or filtered water.
Weather: Santiago’s climate is Mediterranean, with warm summers (Dec-Feb) and mild winters (Jun-Aug). Valparaíso and La Serena have a similar climate. Pucon has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons.
Don’t forget to try traditional Chilean dishes such as Pastel de Choclo (corn pie), Chupe de Mariscos (seafood stew), or Asado de Tira (beef ribs).
Consider purchasing a Chile SIM card or portable Wi-Fi hotspot for reliable internet access during your trip.