#1 Pose at Mano del Desierto

Constructed by Chilean artist Mario Irarrazabal, Mano del Desierto or the Hand of the Desert is a 36-foot-tall structure of a hand that looks like it’s reaching for the stars from its sandy surroundings. It can be found in the Atacama Desert and is a popular sight to see for visitors traveling the Pan-American Highway. Built with concrete and iron, the artist has said that the exaggerated size of the hand is to emphasize human helplessness and vulnerability. Many visitors enjoy stopping near the structure and taking fun photographs with the large hand – if anything, the photographic opportunity offers a great memory of a trip to Chile.

#2 Meeting Moai at Easter Island

Culture, adventure and a paradise destination to rest are just a part of what awaits you on Rapa Nui (Easter Island). Moai statues were built to honor chieftain or other important people who had passed away. They were placed on rectangular stone platforms called ahu, which are tombs for the people that the statues represented. The moais were intentionally made with different characteristics since they were intended to keep the appearance of the person it represented. Come discover its intriguing moai and the authentic spirit of this culture still present in its people.

#3 Visit World's Biggest Copper Mines

Go on a tour of Chuquicamata, one of the world’s biggest open-pit copper mines. Arrange a tour with Codelco, the company that runs the mine, giving you the opportunity to visit and have a better understanding of its facilities and place. You will learn about copper extraction processes and you’ll be able to take pictures next to the enormous trucks that work there.

#4 Marvel the most impressive Glaciers

Over 80% of Latin America’s glaciers are in Chile. Therefore, the Chilean Patagonia offers hundreds of tours and excursions to view these impressive glaciers but a few of the glaciers you must visit are the Grey Glacier at Torres del Paine National Park, Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers at Bernardo O’Higgins National Park, Explorers’ Glacier at Laguna San Rafael National Park, and the Hanging Snowdrift at Queulat National Park. 

#5 Discover the Colorful of Valparaiso

Bohemian and colorful, Valparaiso’s maze of hills has long inspired poets and writers. You’ll discover something new at every turn: a gem of a building, a remarkable art gallery or some little gastronomic ‘find’. Revel in the crazy architecture of this World Heritage City. Stroll along its narrow streets, climb its endless staircases, ride its historic funicular elevators and enjoy panoramic views from its many lofty lookout points. Feel the excitement in the air at one of the city’s many carnivals, or celebrate New Year in spectacular style at Valparaiso’s ocean-front fireworks party.

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