5 reasons why everyone is talking about Chile right now

It’s no surprise to seasoned travelers to hear that Chile has been named Best International Destination in the inaugural Forbes Travel Awards 2026. Spanning 4,300 kilometers along the western edge of South America, this incredible country offers an almost surreal diversity of experiences, from the driest place on Earth to ancient glaciers, cities, and otherworldly islands. But what makes Chile stand out from other destinations, aside from its incredible natural beauty, is the way in which nature, culture, adventure, and accessibility are blended together. Here are five compelling reasons why Chile is one of the best international destinations in the world.

Atacama Desert, which is often called the place that most resembles Mars, is a place of otherworldly beauty with its position as the driest non-polar desert in the world contributing to its Martian-like appearance. Travelers to the area can experience the moon-like landscape of the Valle de la Luna, see steam rise dramatically from the El Tatio geysers, and even see flamingos wading through salt lagoons. But perhaps one of the most magical experiences to be had in the Atacama is the incredible stargazing that can be enjoyed from its location.

In the remote south, the wild wilderness of Patagonia stretches as far as the eye can see. This is a place where the earth touches the sky and where adventure travelers come to make their dreams come true. At the heart of it all is the Torres del Paine National Park, a place that is renowned throughout the world for its towering peaks of granite, its beautiful lakes, and its long-distance walks along the W and O tracks. For nature lovers, adventure seekers, and photographers, Patagonia is the ultimate destination.

Chile has a long coastline along the Pacific Ocean, and it has a lot to offer, including rugged shores, quaint fishing villages, and hidden beaches. One such place is in the bohemian town of Valparaíso, where the arts scene is alive and kicking, and the town is a kaleidoscope of colors and music. Easter Island, also known as Rapa Nui, is a remote outpost in the Pacific Ocean, where the famous moai statues stand guard, one of the greatest archaeological mysteries in the world.

Chile is a world-class wine producer, and its vineyards are as picturesque as they are world-class. Maipo Valley and Colchagua Valley are known for producing top-notch quality Cabernet Sauvignon and Carménere varieties. The geography of Chile, surrounded by the mountains and the sea, is the perfect place to create a world-class wine region.

At the heart of it all is Santiago, a capital city that is both modern and vibrant. Surrounded by the majestic Andes Mountains, Santiago offers a combination of the old and the new. It has a lot to offer, and it is a great place to stay, as it is only a few hours away from anything you might want to do, such as skiing in the mountains, relaxing at the beach, and visiting the vineyards.