How much do you know about Chile? Not much? Well, a visit there will have you craving more, especially if you make stops at some of the spectacular islands that are nearby. The diverse landscape throughout this magnificent country will have you wondering if you really haven’t just visited about ten different areas of the world! After all, you will be seeing everything from massive volcanoes to lush forests and glaciers that have been around for centuries. Add in the numerous adventures that you will be taking each and every day, the hospitality of the locals, and the delectable wines that you will enjoy with every meal and you may never leave!
5 Bewitching Islands to Visit in Chile
Chiloé
The vibe on this island is much different than the mainland and you will learn so many new traditions and cultures when you are there. When on this island, you must take the time to see the Chiloé churches, which are all colorful wooden buildings filled with incredible décor. The palafitos are also a must-see and those fishermen’s homes can be found within the harbor of the capital city of the island.
Robinson Crusoe
Robinson Crusoe is the most famous out of all three of the islands within the Juan Fernandez Archipelago of the Chilean Islands. Not many people choose to visit this island, partly due to the stories of Alexander Selkirk, who was the sailor who was stranded there for four years back in the 1700s. You can learn more about this sailor while looking out from the Selkirk Mirador for incoming ships. There are many unique animals on this island too and you must take the time to seek out the Juan Fernandez firecrown, the Magellanic penguins, and the Juan Fernandez fur seals.
Easter Island
Easter Island might be more than one thousand miles from the mainland, but that shouldn’t stop you from seeing the gorgeous sights that this island is known for! As soon as you step foot on this island, you will start to discover a few of the more than eight hundred carved monoliths that have been there for longer than anyone can remember. You will want to see them all, but if your time is short, it is recommended that you seek out Ahu Tongariki and Rano Raraku during your stay.
The Tierra del Fuego Archipelago
These islands may be part of Chile, but when you arrive, you will quickly find out that part of the islands belongs to Argentina as well. A visit to Ushuaia is a must, although to see the best of these islands, a Patagonian cruise is your best option.
Cape Horn Archipelago
A Navy Captain lives on Cape Horn, but that doesn’t mean that it is an island that is easy to reach, for them or anyone else. This is a remote part of the country and you can only get to this island via a small plane or a cruise ship. However, once you arrive, you will find why the journey is worthy of the extra time you spend getting there.
You must take the time to see at least one of these islands during your visit to Chile, although, you may prefer to see them all and skip out on the mainland, due to the uniqueness of what you will see at each one.
