Chiloé is located in the Los Lagos region in southern Chile. It is the main island in the Chiloé Archipelago, a group of over 40 islands that extends along the Pacific Ocean.
To get to Chiloé, you can take a flight from Santiago to Castro (Mocopulli airport) or a ferry from mainland Chile, crossing the Chacao channel.
The geographical location of Chiloé gives it a unique biodiversity and varied landscapes. Here you can see sea lions, foxes, pudus (the world's smallest deer), and monitos del monte (a type of marsupial).
Chiloé National Park is a biodiversity haven with forests and beaches. You can spot the kodkod (güiña), the Andes skunk, or different bird species like the chucao or chimango. The park offers picnic and camping areas, hiking trails, and viewpoints. There are gentle walks suitable for the whole family and more challenging routes for adventurers.
Get ready to delight your palate with the unique flavors of Chiloé. Try the famous curanto, a feast of seafood, meats, and vegetables cooked underground. Enjoy the native potatoes, which have been cultivated on the island since ancient times, or taste milcao, the traditional potato pancakes.
The churches of Chiloé are famous because they are built in wood using ancestral techniques. UNESCO declared them World Heritage Sites. These churches are not only places of worship but also living testimonies of history and culture.
Exploring these 16 churches is like traveling back in time. Each one has its own story and personality. From the imposing San Francisco church in Castro to the charming Santa María de Loreto church in Achao, the Tenaún church, with its three towers, and the Quinchao church, one of the largest and oldest.
San Francisco church in Castro
Santa María de Loreto church in Achao
Tenaún church
Quinchao church
Explore the channels and fjords of Chiloé by kayak or in a traditional boat. Observe marine fauna, such as dolphins, and enjoy the tranquility of its waters.
Chiloé is a paradise for bird lovers. Visit the wetlands and observe unique species, such as the black-necked swan and the Chilean flamingo.
Palafitos are traditional houses built on stilts in the water. Tour the neighborhoods of Castro and Dalcahue and marvel at these colorful constructions.
Participate in one of the many local festivals and immerse yourself in the culture. Traditions like the Minga or the Fiesta de San Juan are perfect for learning about the island's traditions.
Visit the markets and workshops of local artisans and take home a unique souvenir from Chiloé. From wool weavings to basketry and wood carvings, Chilota handicrafts reflect its rich culture.
The history of Chiloé is as rich and fascinating as its landscape. From the ancient indigenous peoples to the arrival of Spanish colonizers, each chapter has left a mark on the island.
Indigenous people: The first inhabitants of Chiloé were the Chonos and the Huilliches, who lived in harmony with nature and developed a culture rich in mythology and traditions.
Spanish colonization: In the 16th century, the Spanish arrived in Chiloé and began building the famous wooden churches. The island became an important strategic and commercial point during the colonial era.
Independence and modernity: After Chile's independence, Chiloé has known how to maintain its traditions, such as festivals and legends, while embracing modernity.
Interested? Plan your trip and discover everything Chiloé has to offer.