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OrongoFollowing the crisis of the tribal wars, the Rapa Nui people reorganized their society through the cult of the Birdman. Each family would send the chief of its lineage to compete in the daring quest for the egg of the manutara, a migratory bird that nested on the islets that you can see from the ceremonial village of Orongo. The competitors had to descend the cliff and swim (sometimes among sharks) to the islet of Motu Nui, find the bird's first egg, and bring it back to Orongo intact. Whoever completed the challenge first by presenting the treasure to the king would be dubbed Tangata Manu (Birdman) and win special privileges for his tribe. Ranu RarakuYou'll find Ranu Raraku volcano, the cradle of the Moai, across Easter island from Hanga Roa. This volcano was formed in the wake of activity from Maunga Terevaka. It was chosen by the people of Rapa Nui to provide the materials for their monumental carved stone statues thanks to the relative softness of its rocks. Hanga RoaMost of the hotels, restaurants, bars and nightclubs on Easter Island are located in Hanga Roa. The town also has two banks, crafts shops, a supermarket, art galleries, a gas station, rental agencies for cars and motorcycles and an information center.
AnakenaNo trip to Easter Island is complete without a visit to Anakena, the beach where the first Polynesian immigrants arrived to Easter island. It is also where they settled. Anakena is a marvel beach because of its warm and placid turquoise waters, white coral sands and palm trees (brought over from Tahiti in the 1960s) as well as the unique character offered by its two Ahu sites and their respective Moai statues.  PutreIs hard to believe that are villages or towns in Andean Altiplano. Going up from Arica through arid and lonely landscapes, lies Putre village, with its buildings dating from the seventeenth century, such as church which was built in 1670 and restored in 1871. In February Putre celebrates its Carnival, August 15, Virgen de la Asunta feast and last weekend of November, Cristo Rey procession, times when you can dance to Tarka (a kind of flute ) sound. Nearby are Socoroma, a village where still living traditions of indigenous peoples and conquerors such as Aymaras and Incas. Parinacota, Isluga, Colchane and Cariquima, towns that share the same stone and adobe architecture, some with more colonial style and where still live traditional customs and festivals. At Socoroma is celebrated its carnival with dancings and horse racings, and the Cruz de Mayo religious feast in its church, built in 1560. Isluga, an Aymara ceremonial center is deserted, but its attractions are Isluga Pucara and Usamaya cemetery. Arica2,070 kilometers from Santiago, Arica is known as the "city of eternal spring". Its coolest months averaging 15 ° C temperature. Misty dawn, but sun rises and dryness will remind you the surrounding desert. It does not record more than 0.4 mm of rain per year. Arica is, by its geographical position, the first or the last city of Chile, according  from all points of view: it is  northernmost city in the country. Typical border population, situated a few kilometers from neighboring Peru, is the most beautiful cities of Parinacota. IquiqueCity of Iquique, that in local ancient language means "where sea wolves and birds sleep," belonged to Peru before Pacific War. It was in November 23, 1879 when Chilean army conquered it and from that moment this city, that began to beautify by nitrate exploitation and commercial fishing success, didn't stop growing. Political decision to turn Iquique in Free Trade Zone (now there works the renowned "Zofri") granted it economic growth that drove the creation of industries according to the new needs of city. Elqui ValleyThe course that follows Elqui river to La Serena's beaches goes through about 140 km between hills full of vineyards and villages which for years have combined agriculture with tourism. Elqui Valley is one of the most popular destinations for nature lovers and those looking to relax in different ways. The Elqui Valley focuses its business on growing grapes, fruits, cereals, fodder and vegetables. In addition, sheep cattle and has deposits of iron and copper. However, tourism has gained a privileged position in recent years, so it has excellent accommodation and restaurants. CoquimboThe emblem of Coquimbo's soccer team, Coquimbo Unido, is the face of a ferocious pirate. According to local legend, several such characters crossed the Strait of Magellan to the beaches of Coquimbo to bury their treasure. Whether the stories are true or not, the city's inhabitants have held on to the adventurous, boisterous spirit of those seafarers of old, who hobbled ashore on their peg legs, cutlasses in hand. La SerenaLa Serena is one of the loveliest and liveliest cities in Chile’s northern region. Its attractions include excellent hotel and dining options, beaches, historic tours and proximity to the Elqui and Limari valleys. Though it is often linked to the nearby city of Coquimbo, La Serena’s architecture sets it apart. The city’s picturesque, colonial-style old quarter makes for an interesting visit, with buildings that offer plenty of terrific photo opportunities. Visit its Archaeological museum and the churches and bell towers that makes this city so distinctive, including the Cathedral, the San Agustin Convent, the Church of San Francisco (a national monument dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries), and the Church of Santo Domingo (18th century). You can wind up your tour with a visit to the Parque Japones, the largest Japanese park in South America. ValparaisoYou can use all of these words and many more to describe Valparaiso, but the truth is that this city escapes definition. But let's start with the basic facts: Valparaiso is Chile's largest port and one of its oldest, dating back to 1536. Though some claim that there are 42, no one knows exactly how many hills circle the bay of Valparaiso. Whatever the number, there are many of them, and each is filled with multicolored houses perched at crazy angles connected by a gigantic labyrinth of streets, long staircases and lookout points. Between these hills and the sea lies a downtown area filled with beautiful architecture, narrow streets and even trolleybuses. Renaca ConconThe neighborhoods of Vina del Mar's northernmost sector have become part of the tradition of the Valparaiso coastal region. Located just 7 km from the "Garden City," Renaca is central Chile's most fashionable summer destination, with crowds of beautiful young people, countless outdoor activities, dozens of good restaurants, a vibrant nightlife and a blend of sun and surf that makes it the perfect place to practice water sports. Zapallar MaitencilloIf you're looking for quiet beaches with soft sands and big rocks, fishing holes and a good selection of restaurants and accommodations, head north along the coast of Vina del Mar for about 57 km to the small town of Maitencillo. The most stunning summer homes in the area sit atop the small hills that run into the wide beaches. The waterfront boasts several renowned restaurants and pubs that are very crowded in summer. Cajon del Maipo and Pirque15 km southeast of Santiago, after passing La Florida and Puente Alto counties, Los Andes hypnotizes all looks. Mountains, with peaks over 5,000 meters, will increasingly narrowing on G-25 route that winds and climbs surrounded by Maipo river. Cajon del Maipo has become a capital oasis for who want to breathe fresh air and avoid the hustle and bustle of Santiago. Impressive to see as a few kilometers from Santiago arise small and peaceful mountain villages where you can rediscover nature, eating traditional Chilean food and experience outdoor activities through various adventure sports groups in the sector. BellavistaBellavista is a city area of Santiago, located between north bank of Mapocho river and San Cristobal hill, with Pio Nono street as its backbone. In its beginning was a Catholic and aristocratic area, while today is a popular cultural center with several bars and international cuisine. Bellavista highlights over others by its bohemian reputation and has a clear urban appeal, thanks to its unique architecture. Ski ResortsSnow always accompanies winter in Santiago and is the most awaited guest in cold months that start in June with first rains. Major ski resorts in Santiago that are located above 2,000 meters turn white and invite all who love skiing and snowboarding adrenaline rush. If you want to tour the best ski resorts in South America, you should only travel 40 kilometers east of Santiago downtown and enter Andean relief. There emerged most famous ski resorts like Farellones, El Colorado, La Parva and Valle Nevado. All feature hotel facilities, restaurants, equipment leasing, tracks and slopes for all levels, from apprentices to experts who slip "off track". PichilemuPichilemu means "grove" in Mapuche language, and was originally a village of natives who lived by fishing and collecting. Its origin as a spa dates back to 1885, when Mr Agustin Ross Edwards began construction of important architectural buildings, which is currently a heritage neighborhood of Pichilemu, highlighting the Agustin Ross Cultural Center and Ross Park, both declared National Monuments. Due to its geographical characteristics, south coast of Santiago ends in steep cliffs and high presence of winds from Pacific ocean cause a strong surge that attracts those who enjoy streams. In fact, it is common see in its waters many fans and professionals with their surfboards, windsurf or kitesurf performing remarkable tricks. San FernandoSan Fernando is located next to Pan-American highway and has about 45 000 inhabitants. It was founded in 1742 as Villa de San Fernando de Tinguiririca.  Is a services city for surrounding agricultural area  and for Colchagua valley. Located 141 kilometers south from Santiago of Chile. There you can visit San Francisco church, unusual architecture and declared a National Monument, the main square, the Neandro Schilling lyceum and the Government of Colchagua. You can also discover Lircunlauta ranch, a house that belonged to Juan Jiménez de Leon, who donated the land on which stands the city and was declared a National Monument and Hijas de la Caridad de San Vicente de Paul chapel, built between 1884 and 1899. Santa CruzWith almost 35 000 inhabitants, Santa Cruz is the Colchagua valley town that has experienced major changes in recent years. This is due to its importance as one of the largest supplies and services cities for businesses and residents of this great agricultural valley, Santa Cruz has become to a tourism development center that has experienced this valley over the last decade. Santa Cruz is small but warm and welcoming. Also it is the center where you can visit the best attractions of Colchagua. Los AngelesThe city of Los Angeles is located in beautiful central valley does not exceed 150 meters above sea level. It lies between Laja (north) and Biobio (south) rivers, which is why during the colonial era the place was known as "Laja island". Lonquimay & CuracautinCuracautin and Lonquimay cities are connected by Las Raices tunnel, the second longest tunnel in Latin America with 4.5 Km. Both cities have a wide range that reflects  identity of its people, especially Pehuenche because here you can have a  true ancestral cultural experience of our country participating in local rituals. Llaima, Lonquimay and Tolhuaca volcanoes are the stars of postcards and part of major tours on their surroundings. Restless Llaima and Lonquimay attract travelers, curious and scientists who study its high activity every year. TemucoTemuco is located in the center of La Araucania. The capital of this region was last bastion of Mapuche people that faced the white men arrival in Chile. Temuco in Mapuche language means "temu water." Temu is a native treet that can be observed throughout this region next to araucaria, another favorite with visitors.
ValdiviaAt junction of three major rivers, Valdivia shows itself as world's older southern city. Founded in 1552 as a Spanish fort, was invaded by dutch pirates and inhabited by german settlers. This city, which withstood 1960 earthquake and tsunami, the largest recorded in history, still stands today, to walk, taste and enjoy it, especially at night. Valdivia is one of most important Chile cities and is a must-see destination for those who travel along the 5 sur route. A little over 840 kilometers from Santiago, Valdivia geography harmonize daily lives of its inhabitants with rainforest and cultivated fields crossed by streams and rivers that provide moisture to this unique region. Puerto MonttPuerto Montt, located in Reloncavi sound, is a port city that lives on salmon farming, trade and tourism. It is Los Lagos region capital and one of most famous Chile city by its impressive nature surroundings, dominated by forests, lakes, estuaries, islands and especially volcanoes. Puerto Montt has different interesting sites Surrounded by Reloncavi sound, which is entered via 5 sur route. In Puerto Montt surroundings there are several creeks that serve as a perfect place for salmon industry, developed in conjunction with tourism enterprises. Also come to Puerto Montt international cruises, ferries departures to Chiloe and ships that travel to Aysen and Magallanes fjords. Also, it is starting point of Austral Highway. AncudPacific Ocean washes Chiloe island, where Ancud is influenced by its canals and islets inhabited by penguins and marine life. From the earliest settlements on the Chiloe island, Ancud took advantage of its prime location. It was spanish port and fort; the consolidation of trade with the rest of Chile became known as the best naval communication way between island and mainland. Timber trade had its biggest boost in late nineteenth century, which attracted settlers from Europe. In Ancud, and throughout Chiloe island, can enjoy the sea. So there's no better place to taste the best seafood in Chile, large and exotic. Two captive dishes are pulmay and oysters. There is a complete gastronomic offer including restaurants that have their own farms. CoyhaiqueCoyhaique, Aysen capital, is a city that clearly differs from the rest of Chile: customs, landscapes, architecture and people, all seem have emerged from a postcard that still wait to be discovered. The main feature of Coyhaique and Aysen is its varied landscapes that composes it. From shores filled of fjords and channels of Chilean Patagonia, to lush pampas closer to Los Andes. Futaleufu & PumalinFutaleufu, that in Mapuche language means "great river", is located in middle of Los Andes and is a paradise for those who enjoy adventure sports and outdoor activities. Futaleufu River is considered one of the best in the world for kayaking and rafting. If someone are looking for less demanding outdoor activities, can visit the Futaleufu National Reserve that protects two very important species in the area, such as Los Andes cypress and the huemul, deer endemic and native symbol of Chile.
Palena - QueulatThis basin includes Palena Valley and Queulat National Park and from Los Andes to Pacific Ocean, where it appears to fall between forests and fjords of Patagonia. Town of La Junta is the cruxial point of Palena-Queulat Basin and it is a main place of business of north segment of Austral Highway. Here you can find different prices accommodations, restaurants, internet, gas, groceries and mobile phone signal. Punta ArenasTo begin adventure trips to Tierra del Fuego and Magallanes Strait, Punta Arenas is the best starting point to visit these great attractions. You can also walk by its streets and comply with a Magellan tradition: touch the foot of aonikenk indian at Magallanes monument, located in Munoz Gamero Main Square. People say that if a person does it, will return to Patagonia. Torres del PaineThe main attraction of Torres del Paine National Park, Biosphere Reserve, are its famous mountains, sure they have seen portrayed in dozens of postcards. But also surprises with its large trekking circuits through forests, hills, waterfalls and lakes, unique landscapes that are accompanied by the white veil of the Southern Ice Field. Bahia InglesaIn Bahia Inglesa beaches are quiet, white sands contrast with the black rocks that surround and form turquoise water pools. The magic of this beautiful coastline contrasts with desert's vastness that surrounds it. A 81 km and 5 km from Copiapo, Caldera, it attracts many travelers who spend long periods staying in cabins by the sea. In summer is quite hot during the day but at night temperature falls down considerably and demand something warm. Annual average temperature in Bahia Inglesa is about 20°C as a maximum and 7°C a minimum. Puerto NatalesPuerto Natales is located about 250 km northwest of Punta Arenas, where black-necked swans and seagulls greets the visitor from its misty dock, characteristic of this rural and tourist Magallanes city. Located on the banks of  Señoret channel and opposite from Patagonian Andes Mountains, Puerto Natales was a splendor catle center in early 20 century and for years there was only a stopping place for visiting Torres del Paine National Park. Today the situation is totally different and surprise encounter travelers from around the world  enjoying a wide variety of outdoor activities, adventures and excursions that complement with the charm of this small urban center flowing with good gastronomy and excellent hospitality level.
PuconPucon is one of  main tourism centers of Araucania and Chile which lies at Villarrica volcano foot and on eastern shore of Villarrica lake, which is one of first links of a long chain of lakes in southern Chile. At 800 kilometers from Santiago, if it is accessed by 5 sur route or Mamuil-Malal border pass from Argentina, the greenery of the landscape, with attractive flowers that adorn the roads anticipate the beauty of Pucon. Puerto VarasUndoubtedly, Puerto Varas is one of the most emblematic cities of Chile. Just 21 kilometers from Puerto Montt and on shore of Llanquihue lake, Puerto Varas is known as "city of roses" for its large number of these flowers that adorn the streets. City is magical from all points of view and can be enjoyed both day and night and is going through its distinctive german architecture constructions, its modern residential neighborhoods with colorful gardens and beautiful Sagrado Corazón de Jesus Church, another reason to fall in love with Puerto Varas, founded in 1853 by german and swiss settlers and came to populate southern Chile. Quaint and equipped, Puerto Varas offers boutique hotels, lodges and hostels. It also has a casino and a wide array of options, which include beers, meat and lomito (typical Chilean pork sandwich). To purchase, you can explore their craft stores, fabric Southerners and aromatic gourmet chocolate products. At night, city lives in its bars, pubs and casino.  San Pedro de AtacamaSan Pedro de Atacama streets unite mysticism of the ancient cultures of Altiplano with modern tourism. 102 km from Calama, San Pedro de Atacama is a indigenous groups land that develop agriculture and tourism. At mian square stands the ancient church dating from 1774, is revealing its inhabitants customs: cactus wood, adobe and algarrobo beams tied with leather. Nearby is the Gustavo Le Paige Archaeological Museum, where impresses its mummies and objects that reveal the richness of San Pedro's cultures. AntofagastaThe port of Antofagasta, 1377 km from Santiago is the heart of Chilean mining industry. It is in this region of northern Chile where are major copper mines. But near are other treasures. With an average temperature of 16 ° C, near by Antofagasta are spas with long and quiet beaches, such as Mejillones, Hornitos and Juan Lopez. |
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