Chile flag

Chile

History

A government junta took power, changing Chile's political direction.
Chile declared independence or statehood, marking a decisive political break.
Chile's sovereignty gained formal recognition.
The current constitution came into force, setting the basic framework for today's Chile.
South America thumbnailPart ofSouth AmericaMore countries, cities and routes.
CapitalSantiago
Population20.2M
Area756,102 km2
CurrencyChilean peso

Short facts

RegionSouthern South America / Andes
LanguageSpanish
Time zoneCLT (UTC-3/UTC-4)
Drives onRight

Worth seeing

  • Atacama Desert: The driest non-polar desert on earth, famous for stargazing and moonlike landscapes.
  • Patagonia & Torres del Paine: Dramatic granite towers, glaciers, and wild wind in the world's end wilderness.
  • Easter Island: Remote Pacific island with its iconic moai statues and Polynesian culture.

Find a city in Chile

Showing all cities

Santiago thumbnailSantiagoCity

Planning questions

What is Chile known for?Atacama Desert, Patagonia & Torres del Paine, Easter Island.
What is the capital?Santiago.
Which language is useful?Spanish.
When is the national day?18 September.
How should I browse it here?Start with the facts, jump to linked cities, then check events and topics.

Upcoming events

Chile Independence Day and Fiestas Patrias thumbnailChile Independence Day and Fiestas PatriasSep 2026 ยท Chile

Use Santiago as the first planning anchor for Chile, then compare the city, food and worth-seeing notes on this page.

Food & drink

Street food thumbnailStreet foodSignature dishWine thumbnailWineLocal drink

Known for

Atacama DesertPatagonia & Torres del PaineEaster IslandSantiagoStreet foodWine
Eurovision Song Contest thumbnailMusic & CultureFestivals, concerts and cultural calendars.South America thumbnailSouthern seasonsPatagonia, pampas, vineyards and seasonal trip planning.