Friday, July 12, 2024
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Chile, a land of breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture, has become an enticing destination for travelers from 94 countries now allowed visa free entry. With its stunning Andes mountains, picturesque coastlines, and diverse ecosystems, Chile offers a unique blend of natural beauty and adventure. Adding to its allure, this new visa-free policy makes it easier than ever to explore this South American gem. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling streets of Santiago, the serene beauty of Patagonia, or the mystical allure of Easter Island, Chile promises an unforgettable experience for every visitor.
In 2023, Chile welcomed over 3.7 million international tourists. However, this came after a significant downturn in 2020, when the country saw a 75.2 percent drop in international tourism due to the pandemic. The lowest point was in 2021, with only 190,000 visitors. The peak of the decade was in 2017, with more than 6.4 million arrivals. Argentinians made up the largest group of international tourists in 2023, accounting for over 1.2 million arrivals.
Chile’s Travel & Tourism market is set to see substantial revenue growth. By 2024, revenue is expected to reach US$3,275.00 million and is projected to grow at an annual rate of 4.68% until 2028, reaching US$3,933.00 million. The industry is emphasizing sustainable tourism to attract eco-conscious travelers.
Tourism in Chile is managed by the Undersecretary for Tourism within the Ministry of Economy, Development, and Tourism. This body designs and implements national tourism policies and strategies. The National Tourism Service, SERNATUR, executes these policies through its regional offices in Chile’s 16 administrative regions and provincial offices in key tourist destinations such as Easter Island, San Pedro de Atacama, Chiloé, and Puerto Natales.
In May 2024, Chile recorded 675,144 tourist arrivals, down from 731,681 in April 2024. Over the decade, from 2014 to 2024, tourist arrivals averaged 831,938. The highest was in January 2017, with 1,429,187 arrivals, and the lowest in April 2020, with only 60,850.
The decline in tourism during the pandemic led to a 70 percent drop in receipts from this sector in the first pandemic year. Recovery to pre-pandemic levels is not expected until the mid-2020s. The tourism sector’s contribution to GDP decreased by six percentage points in 2020 but is on a slow path to recovery.
Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport: Located in Pudahuel, 15 km northwest of central Santiago, this is Chile’s largest and busiest international airport. It features 35 boarding bridges, 26 remote and cargo parking lots, and two runways. It serves as a hub for LATAM, Sky Airline, One Airlines, Aerocardal, and JetSmart. The airport saw a 21.63% increase in passenger numbers from January to February 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
El Tepual Airport: Serving the tourist area of Puerto Montt, this airport is a gateway to the Chilean Patagonia. Officially inaugurated in 1963, it saw significant development post-Pinochet’s presidency. It supports both domestic and international flights and features essential amenities like shops, restaurants, and car rentals.
1. The Singular Patagonia: Located in Puerto Natales, this hotel blends modern comfort with historical charm, offering stunning views of the Patagonian landscape and a unique experience in a restored early 20th-century cold-storage plant.
2. Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa: Nestled in the Atacama Desert, this eco-friendly luxury hotel provides a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, with top-notch amenities, personalized excursions, and breathtaking views of the desert and mountains.
3. Explora Rapa Nui: Situated on Easter Island, this all-inclusive resort offers luxurious accommodations and guided explorations of the island’s mysterious archaeological sites, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
4. Ritz-Carlton Santiago: Located in the heart of Santiago, this upscale hotel combines modern elegance with exceptional service, featuring a rooftop pool, a full-service spa, and easy access to the city’s cultural and culinary attractions.
5. Hotel Cumbres Lastarria: This boutique hotel in Santiago’s vibrant Lastarria neighborhood offers a blend of contemporary design and local charm, with comfortable rooms, a rooftop terrace, and close proximity to museums, parks, and restaurants.
1. Torres del Paine National Park: Located in the southern Patagonia region, this national park is renowned for its stunning mountains, glaciers, lakes, and rivers. The iconic granite towers and spectacular scenery make it a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.
2. Atacama Desert: Known as the driest desert in the world, the Atacama offers unique landscapes, including salt flats, hot springs, geysers, and lunar-like valleys. Highlights include the Valle de la Luna, El Tatio Geysers, and the picturesque town of San Pedro de Atacama.
3. Easter Island (Rapa Nui): Famous for its mysterious moai statues, Easter Island is a remote volcanic island in the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can explore the archaeological sites, enjoy the beautiful beaches, and learn about the island’s unique culture and history.
4. Santiago: The capital city of Chile, Santiago, offers a blend of modern and historic attractions. Key spots include the historic city center, the vibrant Bellavista neighborhood, the towering Cerro San Cristóbal, and the cultural hub of Lastarria.
5. Valparaíso: This colorful port city is known for its bohemian culture, steep funiculars, and vibrant street art. Wander through the winding streets, visit the historic quarter, and enjoy panoramic views from the hilltops. Valparaíso is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for its unique urban design and architecture.
Tags: Chile, chile travel news, Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport, El Tepual Airport, japan, The Singular Patagonia, Torres del Paine National Park, travel industry, Travel News, UAE, US, visa free, Visa free travel
