Ranging for more than 4000 kilometres north to south, from the arid Atacama Desert, through the super-picturesque Lake District, to the sheer drama of Patagonia, Chile is a wonderland for adventure travel. Product Manager Lisa Spratling rates this amongst her favourite countries and here she offers her tips to enhance your trip of a lifetime.

1). Never pass on a pisco

As a popular aperitif, although some would argue it’s the national drink of Chile, pisco sour is a must try. A wonderful combination of local brandy, lemon juice, sugar and ice… shaken not stirred, pisco is a Chilean tradition and the ideal way to kick-start your evening. Give a pisco a whirl and it could be the start of a Chilean holiday-drink romance.      

2). Pack your paperbacks

There's nothing like a Spanish phrase book to break down barriers so use your holiday as a free language course and you’re guaranteed a smile as Chileans will really appreciate you making an effort. Don't forget the compulsory Motorcycle Diaries so you can follow Che Guevara on his epic journey and, if you are feeling poetic, some Pablo Neruda. 

3). Know your guanacos from your alpacas

The whole country offers a fantastic opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts, from the splendour of your first condor, to the fun of watching rheas run and gaining the expertise to spot the difference between guanacos, alpacas and elusive vicunas. And trust me… everyone returns home with more llama selfies than anticipated!

4). Wrap up for all weathers

Chile stretches for a whopping 4300km from the driest place on the planet to the (nearly) coldest. Pack your layers and a few pieces of multi-use clothing. A buff will protect your head from the sun and keep your neck or ears warm when hiking. Quick drying, zip-off trousers are fantastic for changeable climates, while a fleece gilet offers a spot of extra warmth on chilly evenings. Expect all four seasons every 24 hours!

5). Cook up some congrio or a curanto

Baked, grilled or stewed congrio is absolutely delicious and don’t let the fact that it’s conger eel put you off. If you’re offered the chance to sample a traditional curanto feast then grab it. This is Chile’s oldest dish and consists of either meat or fish or sometimes both, cooked over hot rocks in the ground with vegetables or potatoes. Finally, salmon ceviche is my all-time favourite, marinated in citrus juice and spices and paired with a glass of Chilean Merlot - a match made in heaven.                          

6). Ditch the digital and enjoy a detox

The beauty of Chile is the limited or non-existent phone signal in some areas. Take that as a blessing in disguise and enjoy the breath-taking scenery and, more importantly, the company of your fellow travellers. The constant beeping of a phone takes away the whole reason of having a holiday – so relax, get off the grid, and go with the flow.

7). Enjoy it because you’re in it for the long haul

Chile isn’t a short hop away, but don’t let that put you off. Remember this is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure holiday so why not arrive a day early and spend some extra time exploring new and exciting surroundings. After a good night’s sleep you’ll wake up feeling fresh and ready to start your Chilean adventure.       
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In Patagonia at the southern tip of Chile choose between these amazing trekking holidays which show off some of the wildest landscape in South America.

Patagonia Paine Circuit or Patagonia Spires and Ice