Visit the Valparaíso region for watersports, mountain adventures and wildlife spotting. Explore bohemian beach towns, chic coastal resorts and cities that originated in Chile’s colonial period. The Valparaíso region forms part of central Chile, stretching from the slopes of the snow-covered Andean peaks through fertile plains to the shimmering Pacific Ocean.
The region’s capital is Valparaíso, a lively port city of colorful hillside neighborhoods surrounding a sweeping bay. Established as a Spanish-era port city, today it’s a favored creative home for artists and poets. Admire colonial-era landmarks and grand plazas in the historic downtown. Ride multiple funiculars into the hills to discover a maze of steep stairways, streets lined with brightly painted homes and open-air art galleries.
Extending north and south from Valparaíso are miles of glorious coastline highlighted with eclectic towns. Travel north to stylish Viña del Mar, Chile’s Garden City and the home of fashionable beach suburbs such as Concón and Reñaca. Relax in the shadow of huge sandstone cliffs at Maitencillo and indulge in the luxury hotels of Zapallar.
South of Valparaíso, Algarrobo has one of the world’s largest swimming pools, over 3,280 feet (1,000 meters) long. Walk in famous Chilean poet Pablo Neruda’s footsteps at Isla Negra. Spot birdlife in Reserva Nacional El Yali. Experience Chile’s surf culture at Matanzas, Pichilemu and Punta de Lobos.
Inland, Portillo is a popular winter sports center in the foothills of 22,841-foot-tall (6,962-meter) Aconcagua. Spot eagles, foxes and mountain cats while hiking scenic trails in Parque Nacional La Campana. Walk around a placid lake to picnic sites in Reserva Nacional Lago Peñuelas.
Getting around the region is easy using Chile’s large network of intercity buses. Rent a car to reach smaller towns and remote coastal areas.
Extend your stay to visit Valparaíso region’s far-flung islands. Join trekking and scuba excursions on Isla Robinson Crusoe, part of the Juan Fernández Archipelago. Gaze in awe at the beguiling moai statues of the Rapa Nui people on Isla de Pascua (Easter Island).