Chile is one of the most unique countries in the world. This narrow stretch of land, more than 3,500 miles from north to south, but only 350 from the Pacific Ocean to the Andes, has all of the major climates of the world, some of its tastiest fruits, and some of its most dramatic, and I mean DRAMATIC, landscapes. Here are our top five favorite things about Chile.

5. Valparaiso
San Francisco of the south, Valparaiso has the grit of a port and the art of a capital. With some of the finest street art in the world, it is a great place to walk if you can stand the hills. Tired of walking? No worries, dozens of elevators throughout the city will take you to splendid views of this colorful sea side town that was once home to Chile's greatest poet: Pablo Neruda.

4. Vineyards
Chile's climate and soil are perfect for growing grapes. It's rich agricultural tradition is perfect for making those grapes into world-famous wine. The latest trend is producing organic wine throughout Chile's three main wine-growing regions.

3. Empanadas
With dozens of options for ingredients, including seafood, the Chilean version of this popular Latin America filled pastry is simply the best. Olives and eggs are usually added to the ground beef or another main ingredient. Empanadas are available road-side and in the finest restaurants in Chile.

2. Camelids
New World relatives of the camel, or camelids, are common in Patagonia. You might see a guanaco (pictured here with some penguins), or a vicuña, an alpaca, or even a llama. But don't confuse these four-leggeds with the huemul, the Andean dear, endemic to the region and sadly endangered.

1. Glaciers
Chile has some of the largest glaciers in the world. In some cases one can navigate iceberg clogged lakes or bays to approach the tongue of a river of ice stretching for hundreds of miles. Glaciers around the world are receding, so don't wait to see them, they might not be there when you get around to it.

Ready to experience Chile for yourself?

Learn from Travel brings you an educational and culturally-immersive adventure that will stimulate your mind and your palate: Culture, Wine, and Glaciers in Chile November 17th to 27th. You'll experience the seaside charm of Valparaiso, slush organic wine around your tasting glass, walk the woods with an Indigenous Mapuche guide, and hike through some of the most dramatic landscapes on earth. Take advantage of discount pricing before April 30th.

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We specialize in responsible, culturally-immersive, educational travel. You'll meet amazing people, go way off the beaten path, and never forget this travel experience. Go! Learn!