If summer is synonymous with disconnection and nature, our country is home to some of the most spectacular and popular destinations. Between beaches, forests and mountains, Playa La Virgen, Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve and Cerro Castillo National Park are essential destinations for those seeking adventure, tranquility and Chilean landscapes worth sharing.
What was once discovered by backpackers and trekking enthusiasts is now prolific in the form of viral videos on social networks. Images of turquoise waters, lush forests, and high-altitude trails transform these landscapes into environments coveted by travelers of all types. From the arid north to Patagonia, these enclaves define a new map of Chile’s summer.
Northern white sand beaches and turquoise waters
Playa La Virgen, 73 kilometers from Copiapo, stands out as one of the most attractive beaches in northern Chile. Its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters have received thousands of mentions in social media posts. The spa offers activities such as diving, fishing, and snorkeling, while the clear skies make for sunset walks and stargazing.
To avoid crowds, we recommend visiting between 8am and 11am or after 4pm. To enjoy the sunset. If you’re traveling from Santiago, you can fly to El Roa Airport in Calama and drive to the beach from there. There are also tours from Copiapo that include transportation and a guide. If you want to stay for more than a day, there are campsites and cabins near the beach, especially during high season. During high season, we recommend reserving a nearby campground or cabin in advance.
Enchanted Forest of Los Rios Region
Located in the south of the country, the Wirowilo Biological Reserve protects over 100,000 hectares of Valdivia temperate forest. This environment includes waterfalls, trekking routes, suspension bridges, and a deer farm visible from an elevated walkway, one of the most shared points on the network.
The reserve also offers activities such as canopy, kayaking, horseback riding and rafting on the Huy River. Some of the most frequently visited trails include Llararca Falls, La Leona, Botanico, and Sendero de los Espiritus.
The main access is via National Route 203. From Santiago, you can either fly to Pichoy Airfield (Valdivia) or take a bus to Panguipuri (Valdivia) and then continue overland to the reserve.
Patagonia trekking and glaciers
Cerro Castillo National Park in the Carretera Austral stands out for its steep mountains, brick forests and lagoons with turquoise waters. The most popular walk is the 6-8 hour journey to Laguna Cerro Castillo, which is widely shared by trekking and photography enthusiasts.
Those looking for a longer experience can continue the entire circuit over three to four days. Access from Coyhaique is via Route 7 South, a 3-hour drive to Villa Cerro Castillo. Due to the terrain conditions and lack of public transportation, we recommend hiring a local guide.
Connected by road or plane, these destinations allow you to explore Chile’s natural diversity. This summer’s most talked about landscapes – coasts, forests and mountains – are now within the reach of those brave enough to discover them.
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