Discover the best islands in Chile offering incredible natural beauty, unique flora and fauna, and fascinating history and culture for an unforgettable holiday experience.
Chile, a country known for its incredible natural diversity, has a number of exotic islands rich in history, culture, and unique ecosystems.
From remote islands in the Pacific Ocean to wild and pristine sub-Antarctic islands, each island in Chile has a different appeal. If you are a nature, adventure or history lover, here are the best islands in Chile that you should put on your travel list.
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1. Damas Island: A Paradise for Wildlife Lovers
Damas Island is one of three islands that make up the Humboldt Penguin National Reserve, along with Choros Island and Chañaral Island.
Covering more than 800 hectares, the island is home to a variety of wildlife species, such as Humboldt penguins, sea lions, dolphins and sea otters.
Visitors can take a boat tour to see the wildlife up close before finally disembarking on a white sandy beach with turquoise water.
However, in order to maintain the ecosystem, swimming activities have been prohibited in this area. Damas Island is the perfect destination for those who want to enjoy the beauty of nature while observing wildlife in their natural habitat.
2. Robinson Crusoe Island: An Island with a Legendary History
The island is part of the Juan Fernández Archipelago and gets its name from the true story of Scottish sailor Alexander Selkirk, who was stranded here for four years. His story later inspired Daniel Defoe’s classic novel Robinson Crusoe.
As a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the island is home to an extraordinary array of endemic flora and fauna, with 64% of the island’s plants found nowhere else in the world.
The sight of the giant cliffs and the unique biodiversity make Robinson Crusoe a must-visit for adventure and history lovers.
3. Easter Island: The Mystery of the Moai and Rapa Nui Culture
Easter Island (or Rapa Nui) is one of the most famous tourist destinations in the world. Located 3,800 km off the coast of Chile, the island is known for its more than 800 Moai statues, giant stone monoliths that remain a mystery to this day.
The uniqueness of Easter Island lies in its Polynesian culture which is different from mainland Chile.
In addition to visiting archaeological sites such as Ahu Tongariki and Rano Raraku, tourists can also enjoy stunning views of the Rano Kau volcano and dive in the clear waters that harbor an abundance of marine life.
4. Mocha Island: The Legend of Moby Dick and Its Natural Beauty
Mocha Island is known as the inspiration for Herman Melville’s novel Moby Dick. In the past, this island was a migration site for a giant albino sperm whale nicknamed Mocha Dick.
Today, 45% of Mocha Island is a national reserve, making it one of the best conservation areas in Chile. The island has long, pristine beaches, dense forests, and very little human intervention.
If you are looking for a place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the modern world, Mocha Island is the perfect choice.
5. Chiloé Island: Traditions, Architecture and Natural Landscapes
Chiloé Island is the largest island in the Chiloé archipelago and has a unique cultural and architectural richness.
The island is famous for its palafitos (colourful stilt houses), historic wooden churches (some of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites), and mystical legends deeply rooted in the local community.
In addition to culture, Chiloé also has a dense Valdivian rainforest, national parks, and beautiful beaches. The island’s culinary specialties, such as curanto, a seafood dish cooked in a hole in the ground with hot stones, are also a must-try.
6. Wellington Island: Unspoiled Natural Beauty
Wellington Island is Chile’s third largest island, but it is still relatively unknown to tourists. Located in Bernardo O’Higgins National Park, the island has one of the most pristine ecosystems in the world, with endemic fauna, dense forests, and terrain that is almost untouched by humans.
One of the main attractions is the Pío XI Glacier, the largest glacier in South America and is constantly growing. Travelers can explore the island’s waters by boat or kayak to see the natural wonder up close.
7. Navarino Island: Home to the World’s Southernmost Town
Navarino Island, located near Cape Horn, is home to Puerto Williams, the world’s southernmost town. The island has spectacular scenery with the jagged Navarino mountains, subantarctic forests, and abundant marine life.
One of the main attractions here is the “Dientes de Navarino”, an extreme hiking trail that takes 4 days and offers views of the Beagle Channel, the blue lagoon, and dramatic rock formations.
If you are a lover of trekking and wilderness adventure, Navarino Island will provide an unforgettable experience.
Chile is a country that is home to many beautiful and exotic islands, each with its own uniqueness.
From Easter Island with its mysterious Moai statues, Robinson Crusoe Island with its adventure stories, Socotra Island with its otherworldly landscapes and unique biodiversity, to Navarino Island with its wild sub-Antarctic landscape, all of these islands offer an unusual and amazing travel experience.
For lovers of nature, history, culture and adventure, exploring Chile’s best islands is the best way to experience the beauty and diversity of this country that stretches along the west coast of South America. So which islands catch your eye the most?
