special editorial promotion
Torres del Paine
spice up south america
add chile!
Amazing landscapes and welcoming locals are ready to impress you. Chile’s contrasting landscapes provide a banquet of astounding beauty. The north is home to the planet’s driest desert, while fertile valleys and vibrant cities line the centre. The south is a fantasy land of lakes and volcanoes, culminating in the shimmering glaciers and soaring peaks of Patagonia, and just a short flight to the world’s coolest place – Antarctica. Here are some of our favourite experiences waiting for you. 1. DELVE INTO THE ATACAMA DESERT Step back in time and into another world in San Pedro de Atacama. Clear skies make distant, snow-capped volcanoes seem touchable, and the intense colours of the Altiplano lakes make every view worthy of a postcard. 2. CHILL OUT IN SANTIAGO’S NEIGHBOURHOODS The variety and diversity of Santiago comes alive in its ‘barrios’. Stroll the lanes and cobbled plazas, chat to the locals, and savour the delights in the cafes and shops along the way. –126–
3. FIND PEACE IN HOT SPRINGS HIDDEN IN VIRGIN FORESTS Explore wild and remote National Parks away from the tourist trail then relax in a natural hot spring as you watch the stars dance across the night sky above you. 4. FEEL THE SPIRIT ON CHILOE Lonely Planet chose Chiloe as one of its 10 best destinations. The island´s rich culture is reflected in its unique buildings, gastronomy, and mythology including witchcraft, ghost ships and forest gnomes. 5. ESCAPE TO THE UNTOUCHED PARADISE OF AYSEN Get off the beaten track and drive through the remote and wild Aysen region. Evergreen forests, lakes and rivers, hidden valleys and the Andes are your backdrop. Meet the people, experience the culture and fall in love with this secret area. 6. UNEARTH THE MOAI MYSTERIES ON EASTER ISLAND The most remote island in the world is
home to 900 of these mysterious sculptures. Standing up close, trying to understand their meaning as the howling trade winds blow is a unique and very special experience. 7. BE INSPIRED BY THE PEAKS IN CHILEAN PATAGONIA Chilean Patagonia is a magical land of volcanoes and lakes, glaciers and gauchos, and the famous granite towers and horns. Explore its remote valleys on foot staying in spectacularly located cabins or indulge in a luxurious stay in one of its fabulous lodges. LAN Airlines operates seven one-stop flights each week from Sydney to Santiago, Chile, with connections to over 115 destinations in South America. LAN also offers non-stop flights between Sydney and Santiago four times a week in codeshare partnership with oneworld partner airline. www.forwardtravel.com.au/chile vacationsmag.com