Where to go Backpacking in Chile!
So you are thinking of backpacking in Chile? Good plan! Chile is a beautiful country with lots to see and do from cycling around the streets of Santiago to seeing the valley of the moon in San Pedro de Atacama, it is a diverse and interesting place to explore. Just grab your backpack and book your bus travel pass and we will help you do the rest!
Backpack Chile, itīs fun and easy! Decide where you want to go and then head off to explore with your Green Toad Bus Travel Pass!
How about starting in Santiago? Santiago is the Capital of Chile and is a great starting point for your Chilean adventure! Santiago has something for everyone, from the bohemian area of Bella Vista, packed with bars and restaurants for a chance to try the famous Chilean drink 'Terremoto', or a visit the famous central fish market to eat the catch of the day or perhaps a visit to the historic Plaza de Armas to have a drink and watch the world go by and then maybe top it all off with some skiing in the nearby mountains!
Some key things to see and do in Santiago......
1. Cerro San Cristobel - For some breathtaking panoramic views over the entire City. If you can head up for sunset on a clear day, prepare to be amazed! Also right in the City centre is Cerro Santa Lucia, a 20 minute walk will also give you some good views!
2. Plaza de Armas - Take a seat at a pavement cafe and watch the world go by! The Plaza is home to arts and entertainment, with street performers and artists creating an amazing atmosphere. The Plaza is also home to Santiago's Cathedral, famed to be the biggest in Chile.
3. La Moneda - Is the Presidential House named La Moneda (the Money) because it was originally the Mint that made Chile's coins for over 100 years. You enter the courtyards very easily and see the grounds, sculptures and fountain which you need to throw a coin in to and make a wish!
4. Mercado Central - Is Santiagos fish market! May not sound too appealing at first sound but you will not only find fish for sale you can eat some of the best seafood in South America in one of the markets many restaurants! Just across the river from the fish market is a whole block of La Vega, Santiagos fruit market!
5. Hot dogs and cafes - Yes, Chile is the home of the Choripan a Chilean institution, the humble hot dog! Santiago has numerous places to try this delight as well as numerous cafes with a rather unusual twist, note the darkened windows before entering and prepare for a semi-naked suprise!
6. Skiing and snowboarding - Santiago is only an hour and a half away from some of the best ski resorts in South America!
Heading North you will reach the seaside resort and port of Valparaiso. Valparaiso is Chile's second largest City and it's busy port. Valparaiso is famed for it's cobbled streets and muraled houses perched along the hilltops which can be accessed by its funicular railway!
La Serena is usually the next stop from Valparaiso. La Serena is a popular summer resort for its long sandy beach. It is also Chiles second oldest town after Santiago. It is a great base for exploring the nearby Elqui Valley not only beautiful countryside but Chile's main wine producing region! La Serena is also home to several Observatories and a visit to an observatory with a pisco sour afterwards should not be missed!
San Pedro de Atacama - Is a small, dusty town but a must see on your trip to Chile specifically for the amazing landscape that surrounds it! Visit the Valley of the Moon or the geysers and then head off towards Bolivia across the nearby Salt Flats.
Southern Chile - Is stunning. If you get a chance to visit Pucon and Torres del Paine National Park on your adventures then do so. Torres National park is one of the most amazing places to see on the Continent and whilst we at Green Toad don't have trips there just yet we will!
By Jo at Green Toad Bus
Chile Travel Passes
Travel Pass from Santiago to San Pedro de Atacama via Valparaiso & La Serena - Frequency: Daily Departures - Minimum No. of People: 1 - Recommen...
US$198.00
Travel Pass from San Pedro to La Paz (via Uyuni) - Frequency: Daily Departures - Recommended minimum duration: 4 days - Route: San Pedro de Ataca...
US$302.00
Travel Pass from San Pedro de Atacama to Arequipa via Iquique, Arica & Tacna - Frequency: Daily Departures - Minimum No. of People: 1 - Recommen...
US$339.00
Travel Pass from San Pedro de Atacama to Foz do Iguacu (via Salta & Puerto Iguazu) - Frequency: Departs San Pedro de Atacama on Wednesday & Sunday ...
US$431.00
Travel Pass from Santiago to Buenos Aires (via Mendoza & Cordoba) - Frequency: Daily departures - Recommended duration: 8 days - Route: Sant...
US$430.00
Travel Pass from Santiago to Buenos Aires (via Mendoza) - Frequency: Daily departures - Recommended duration: 5 days - Route: Santiago -> Mendoz...
US$290.00
