Nature of Chile - national parks and reserves for active recreation

Chilean nature is amazing and diverse. It has Northern desert terrain, southern ice in the majestic Andes, serene lakes, rapid rivers, and endless waters of the Pacific Ocean. Magnificent Chilean pines and evergreen Andean shrubs, king penguins and black-necked swans, whales, and camels are found here. A large part of the country is a paradise for lovers of nature and animals, as civilized life is concentrated mainly in urban areas, leaving vast spaces intact.

What you need to know about Chile prior to visit - advices

1. Chileans like jocking, but their humor is kind of special and may seem insulting. For example, in Chile it is normal to make fun of shortcomings of …
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What could feel better than walking among hundreds of clumsy and curious penguins? You can watch the friendly birds on Magdalena Island near Punta Arenas shore. This place is a natural refuge safe for marine animals and birds. In addition to penguins, here you can see gulls, cormorants, and other birds. The island has a lighthouse offering wonderful views. There are regularly organized Magdalena Island tours, and to reach the island, you have to cross the Strait of Magellan, which in itself is an exciting adventure.

Patagonia National Park is vast steppes, mountain peaks, crystal clear lakes, virgin forests, and beautiful lagoons. It is home to foxes and cougars, as well as to such endangered animals as the South African deer, the Geoffrey cat, the Andean condor, and many others. And if you're lucky enough, you can see some of them. Making noise, smoking, picking flowers and lighting fire are prohibited here. Nevertheless, this is a great place for hiking (with or without a guide), mountain biking, bird watching, overnight stays and just enjoying nature. The park has a tourist lodge and campgrounds for rest and recreation. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

What to see and what to visit in Chile with children

Sooner or later, one question arises before all those traveling with kids: how to entertain small researchers? Activities for children should be fun …
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Another national park in Patagonia, Torres del Paine, attracts hikers with its mountains, valleys, lakes, and glaciers. In this park, you can book tours varying in duration - 9 or 11 hours, 5 or 8 days. It is good for kayaking, horseback riding or going on a three-hour journey amid shining icebergs on a beautiful modern ship.

Lauka National Park, a nature reserve with large mighty volcanoes, is located in the Andean range. It is inhabited by fluffy llamas and more than a hundred species of birds - local flora and fauna is very diverse. Here it is nice to walk and climb mountains, but beginners should be aware of the thin air at high altitudes. Those wishing to have a swim can plunge into hot springs of Aguas Calientes in Los Lagos. Visitors are offered to choose between artificial and natural pools. Excursions for those interested in local nature are often organized in this place.

Shopping in Chile - best shopping places, what to buy?

Chile is a great place for shopping, as here you can find big shopping malls, colorful markets, and countless souvenir shops. Most shops are open from …
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The northern town of San Pedro de Atacama is located in the middle of the desert. Here you can see wonderful lagoons and grand volcanoes covered with snow. There are also hot geysers here. You can always go on guided tours, and those who wish to explore surroundings on their own are advised to visit the Moon Valley, the entrance to which is guarded by amazing quartz sculptures - "The Three Marys". The valley is famous for its salt caves and cratered terrain. There is another area with the gloomy name of Death Valley with a surreal landscape where you can try sandboarding.

El Morado Natural Monument is a protected area located an hour’s drive from Santiago, in Cajón del Maipo. Due to weather conditions, the park is closed from May to September. The best time to visit it is from December to March. El Morado is a high hill where twelve-hour tours are organized for 100 USD. For physically strong travelers only. Here you can observe a lot of beautiful birds, including amazing Hummingbird.

When and where to 'hang out' in Chile - festivals and celebrations

Chilean holidays and festivals are always amazing and full of color. Throughout the year, Chile hosts a number of holiday festivals. It can be said …
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Of course, every traveler traveling in Chile must visit legendary Easter Island famous for the mysterious Moai statues. whose purpose is shrouded in mystery. However, the island can offer not only the ancient statues but also fantastic views of wonderful local landscapes. Here you can explore Ana Kakenga Cave known for its "windows" overlooking the sparkling water, visit the ancient village of Orongo once inhabited by the indigenous people, and have a picnic on the pink sand of Anakena, a small clean beach where excellent cocktails are served in a bar.

This article about nature and national parks of Chile is protected by the copyright law. You can re-use the content, but only under the condition of placement of an active link to www.orangesmile.com.

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Fantastic City Tours and Excursions in Chile

Reference information

Map of all parks

National and city parks of Chile
♥ National Park 'Alberto De Agostini' . On the map Show on the map

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♥ National Park 'Alerce Andino' . On the map Show on the map

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♥ National Park 'Alerce Costero' . On the map Show on the map

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♥ National Park 'Archipielago Juan Fernadez' . On the map Show on the map

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♥ National Park 'Bernardo O’Higgins' . On the map Show on the map

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♥ National Park 'Bosque Fray Jorge' . On the map Show on the map

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♥ National Park 'Cabo de Hornos' . On the map Show on the map

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♥ National Park 'Chiloe' . On the map Show on the map

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♥ National Park 'Conguillio' . On the map Show on the map

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♥ National Park 'Corcovado' . On the map Show on the map

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Famous places and sights of Chile

Ojos del Salado

From the series “The Highest Mountain Lakes of the Planet”

The highest volcano and the highest mountain lake in the world have the same names - Ojos-del-Salado. The highest point The water source is located at the altitude of 6 390 meters above sea level. The tiny lake has formed in one of the crater of Ojos-del-Salado volcano. The size of the lake is quite modest, its maximum diameter is about 100 meters, and the depth reaches only 10 meters. Since the volcano is regarded as more idle, the excursions are regularly carried out on its slopes. Only a few tourists dare to take a long hike to the Vulkankrater.

The Polish mountaineers were the first to conquer the volcano in 1937. Today, only well-trained travelers can climb up to the crater. You can see not only the wonderful sight of the natural origin, but also the ancient sacrificial altars of … Read all

Escondida

From the series “Giant Artificial Quarries of the Planet”

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All unique sightseeing Chile

Nature of Chile - national parks and reserves for active recreation

Fantastic City Tours and Excursions in Chile

Famous places and sights of Chile

Ojos del Salado

Escondida

Photogallery of Chile

Cultural sights in regions of Chile

Chile: Map of sightseeing in regions