Chile

Chile stretches 2500 miles from the world's driest desert in the North to the bleak isolation of Tierra del Fuego in the South but the average width of the country, from the sea to the Andes, is just 100 miles.

Whether you are cruising through the fjords, skiing in the British summer, hiking in Torres del Paine or exploring the Atacama Desert, a holiday in Chile is special.

Our tours set out the best of the mainland but an extension to Easter Island makes all the difference.

The South: South of the capital the scenery becomes more verdant. With the Andean mountains as a constant guide, you pass through the lush fruit-growing regions to the Lake District. This part of the country is exceptionally beautiful with lakes, snow-capped volcanoes, dense forests and thermal springs.

The most exciting way to explore the fjords South of Puerto Montt is by cruise ship. Punta Arenas is the most southerly city in Chile and the gateway to Antarctica and Tierra del Fuego, the end of the world.

The North: Many of the places of interest north of Santiago are on the coast - pretty fishing towns (and great seafood) and good beaches. However the Andes always hold hidden treasures and the Atacama Desert is definitely not to be missed. Right in the northern tip of the country is Lago Chungara, the highest lake in the world from where one can easily cross the border into Peru or Bolivia.

Last Updated: Tuesday October 16 2007