Exploring Northern Chile

Chile is a funny shaped country: much longer than it is wide. This is why you rarely hear anyone say they're going to visit Eastern or Western Chile, it is always North, South, Santiago, or Patagonia. One area that many people miss when they visit Chile is its skinny northern region, which touches Peru and Bolivia. Here are some great places to go when exploring northern Chile.

Calama. Calama is an expensive and modern town with bus service and an airport, so it is fairly easy to get to. The town itself is nice, but really serves as a hub for its surrounding attractions.

Chuquicamata. Located about 10 miles north of Calama, Chuquicamata is the world's largest open-cast copper mine. Sounds boring, but it is really very interesting. Mines are what drive Chile's economy, and a guide tour of the site can offer a light of insight. You'll also get grew views of the desert pampa and the volcanoes.

Tren del la Muerte: When translated, this name means "The Train of Death" and it goes from Calama to Uyuni in Bolivia. A trip on this train will be long-up to 36 hours, and it will probably be cold and uncomfortable, and will likely not depart or arrive when you expect it to. But it will certainly be an adventure.

San Pedro de Atacama: Similar to Calama, San Pedro de Atacama is mainly a launching point for surrounding attractions. It is a small oasis town with a big sense of history.

Geysers of El Tatio: Geysers are interesting no matter where they are, but in the isolated region of the Atacama Desert they're even more spectacular. They're about 60 miles outside of town. From there you can hike into the volcanoes, but watch out for mines.

Atacama Desert: When you venture into the Atacama Desert, you should be sure to see the Reserva Nacional de los Flamencos, where three of the world's five species of flamingos live. You can also visit the village of Peine, where you can visit some prehistoric caves. You can also head south to the Pan de Azuar, an abandoned railway station.

If you want to head out of Chile, it is easy to cross into three neighboring countries: Peru, Bolivia, and Argentina. For US citizens going into Peru there are no entry requirements. Argentina technically requires and entrance fee, but it is only charged via air entrances. However, to visit Bolivia, citizens of several countries will have to purchase a tourist visa. This can be purchased at the border, but be sure you have all the proper requirements.