Chile

Chile is often described as a geographic miracle, a narrow strip of land that encompasses almost every climate zone imaginable. For families, this translates into a giant outdoor playground where geography textbooks come to life. From the arid dunes of the north to the glacial fjords of the south, the country offers high-adventure landscapes that remain accessible and safe for traveling with children.

In the north, the Atacama Desert provides a surreal backdrop that feels like another planet. Families can base themselves in San Pedro de Atacama to explore the Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley), where children can run down giant sand dunes and walk through salt caves. The region is also one of the world's best places for stargazing; many observatories offer tours specifically designed for younger astronomers to view the rings of Saturn or the craters of the moon through powerful telescopes. During the day, trips to high-altitude lagoons reveal flocks of pink flamingos and grazing vicuñas.

Moving central, the capital, Santiago, is a modern metropolis with sprawling green spaces. Take the cable car up San Cristóbal Hill for panoramic views of the Andes, or visit the interactive Mirador Interactive Museum (MIM). Just a short drive toward the coast lies Valparaíso, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its steep hills. Kids enjoy riding the creaky but reliable ascensores (funicular elevators) and spotting vibrant street art on every corner. Nearby seaside towns like Viña del Mar offer beaches and botanical gardens.

The south offers a different kind of magic. The Lake District, centered around Pucón and Puerto Varas, is lush and green. Here, you can hike through Araucaria forests, view the smoking cone of the Villarrica Volcano, and relax in natural thermal hot springs that act as giant warm swimming pools. Further south lies Patagonia. While the full trekking circuits in Torres del Paine can be demanding, plenty of easier day hikes allow families to see the granite towers, azure lakes, and local wildlife like guanacos and rheas. Boat trips to majestic glaciers provide a comfortable way to witness the ice fields without strenuous hiking.

Practical Considerations: Chile is one of the safest and most developed countries in South America. The water is generally safe to drink in major cities, and the healthcare system is high quality. Distances are vast, so families often rely on domestic flights to hop between regions. When it comes to food, even picky eaters usually enjoy empanadas (savory pastries) and the famous completo hot dogs. Remember that seasons are reversed compared to the Northern Hemisphere; January and February are peak summer months, while July offers world-class skiing in the Andes.