Chile's ultimate road trips: From deserts to glaciers
Chile's diverse landscapes, from the driest desert in the north to the icy glaciers in the south, offer unforgettable road trips. This article delves into five scenic drives that highlight the country's stunning natural beauty and cultural richness. Each journey presents a unique adventure, showcasing deserts, lakes, ancient forests, fjords, and vineyards, reflecting Chile's geographical diversity and cultural heritage.
The Atacama Desert Route
The journey through the Atacama Desert offers a surreal experience with its otherworldly landscapes. Starting from San Pedro de Atacama, travelers encounter geysers, vast salt flats, and lagoons home to flamingos. The striking contrast of the desert's red hues against the blue skies creates an unforgettable driving experience. This route unveils the stark beauty and vastness of the desert.
The Lakes District Adventure
The journey through Chile's Lakes District is akin to navigating a storybook landscape, filled with deep blue lakes, majestic volcanoes, and timeless forests. The path stretching from Puerto Montt to San Carlos de Bariloche in Argentina unveils breathtaking vistas. It also offers chances to delve into charming towns dotted along the route, enriching the travel experience with cultural discoveries.
Carretera Austral: The ultimate road trip
The Carretera Austral, a legendary route, extends over 1,200 kilometers through the heart of Patagonia. It meanders through pristine forests, skirts along fjords, and passes glaciers and turquoise rivers. Beginning in Puerto Montt and culminating in Villa O'Higgins, this drive showcases nature's untouched beauty. It offers travelers a glimpse into the raw, unspoiled wilderness of Chile's southern reaches.
Coastal wonders of northern Chile
This scenic drive along Chile's northern coast highlights the dramatic landscapes where vast deserts meet the Pacific Ocean. Starting from Iquique and heading south to Antofagasta, the journey includes passing by eerie ghost towns such as Humberstone. It also features breathtaking coastal views at Punta de Lobos, where desert dunes dramatically plunge into the sea, creating a stunning visual contrast.
