
High desert and snow capped Andean peaks in August make Chile one of the most beautiful and awarded travel destinations on the Planet. Photo credit: Tom Winter
Chile is a very long, narrow country in South America, but what it lacks in width, it makes up for in fun and adventures. The cold Pacific Ocean surrounds the entire west coast of the country, while the looming snow covered Andes mountains to the East, create a natural border with Argentina. While the northern portion of the country can be extremely hot, the areas in the deep south (yep, Patagonia!) are colder than anywhere else in Chile.
Over the past several years, Chile has been rewarded with numerous travel awards and recognitions as adventures can be found at every turn. Chile is quickly becoming the top travel destination for adventure travelers on the planet.
Here is a break down of recent praises and awards from major media sources.
Lonely Planet’s Top Country to Visit in 2018
Lonely Planet has recently recognized Chile as the best country to visit in 2018 due to the extraordinary landscapes that are available there. Not only that, but 2018 is the year that marks two hundred years of independence. Lonely Planet recommends that visitors spend some time in Chile as they explore both the heat of the Atacama Desert, the wild region of Patagonia, and everywhere in between. Skiing powder in the Andes in August anyone?
World Travel Awards – Best Adventure Travel Destination in South America
Chile has been awarded the best adventure travel destination in South America since 2015. Yes, 3 years running and could very well make it 4 years if it wins in 2018. According to The Wall Street Journal, the World Travel Awards are basically the Oscar for the tourism industry and anyone that has been to Chile can honestly say that this award is well-deserved. In order to qualify for this award, a country needs to have a large variety of physically challenging adventures that take place in exotic and remote locations, and Chile offers plenty of them within their diverse country.
Outside’s Best International Adventure Hub for 2015
Outside Magazine has been ranking adventurous travels for more than four decades now, so they know the best when they see it and experience it. They have quite a few favorite things about Chile including the wide-open spaces, hiking and sailing adventures, mountain biking, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, snowboarding from June to October, and the opportunity to stay at a retreat in the middle of a vineyard.

Rough Guide Reader Award 2017 for Coolest City
The readers of the Rough Guide have spoken when it comes to the coolest city in the world, and Santiago, Chile made the list as runner-up in 2017! Second only to Osaka, Japan, the voters believe that this city is no longer just a home-base for exploring the remote areas of the country, as it is now a world-class destination itself. Visitors will love the diversity of restaurants and nightlife, the flourishing cultural scene that is continuously expanding as well as the many historic attractions and museums within the city itself. Discover Santiago here.
Anyone that hasn’t been to Chile yet will want to book their trip for 2018. This is the year when Chile is going to receive even more awards and recognitions, because the country is continuing to turn into a dream destination for people all over the world.
Chile Travel Tip: Did you know winter in Chile is July-September? Avoid the busy summer months by skipping out on visiting in January and February. That’s right, remember it’s the southern hemisphere…Do something a bit more unique. Discover what to do in Winter in Chile.