There is a lot to experience in Chile. While it measures only 220 miles at is widest point, keep in mind that the country extends about 2,700 miles from north to south – roughly the distance between Seattle and Washington, D.C.
Long Weekend
Devote at least one day to Santiago, then make the trip 75 miles west to Valparaiso for a day. Spend your last day or two, visiting wine centers Colchagua Valley (www.rutadelvino.cl) or Maule Valley (www.valledelmaule.cl).
One Week
Add to the above: 2 to 4 days in the Lake District or Torres del Paine National Park. Alternately head to San Pedro de Atacama, the adobe-lined desert hub, to explore salt flats, geysers, and pre-Columbian ruins.
Two weeks
Spend two days apiece in Santiago and Valparaiso; 1 day in wine-country; 3 days backpacking Torres del Paine, 2 days exploring the Lake District, and 3 das in San Pedro. End with another day in Santiago.
