If you aren’t already convinced that Viña del Mar is the perfect location for an international internship, check out our article on the Top Activities in Viña del Mar, or keep reading to find out how you can further explore Chile on the weekends when you are not working at your internship placement!
If you were to fold the long country of Chile in half like a piece of paper, Viña del Mar would be just in the middle. This location allows the perfect balance and accessibility of activities both in and around the Viña del Mar area and outside this urban part of the country altogether. From the mountains to the desert, there is something for everybody in Chile. Get started on your journey today!
Valparaiso
As another coastal town in Chile located northwest of Santiago, Valparaíso is sometimes considered to be the twin of Viña del Mar. They are both relatively the same in population, although there are several key differences that set them apart. Valparaíso, commonly called Valpo, is famous for its brightly painted buildings, vibrant art scene, and historically bohemian culture. This city is probably most notorious for its graffiti and street art, and a visit here will always constitute a fantastic walking tour. Be sure to bring your camera and eye for design — this town is sure to wow you!
Santiago
How could you possibly visit the coastal part of this beautiful country and not step foot in its capital? Santiago de Chile is a South American capital city that sets itself apart from the others. It is arguably much more modern and industrial, but it also has its fair share of beautiful colonial architecture, street art, and museums. As a bonus, it is also nestled among the Andes mountains, and has some great day trip options for hiking, skiing, and snowboarding!
The Beach Towns
If you just can’t get enough of Chile’s seaside vibes, try out a weekend in a beach town — bit smaller than your beach city of Viña del Mar. Some great options include Algarrobo, Quintay, and Rocas de Santo Domingo to the South and La Serena, Zapallar, and Cachagua to the North. All are accessible by bus up or down the coast, and they are sure to provide a very relaxing and sunny atmosphere.
The Desert
If you are really lucky and have ample time to spend on a bus, you will be able to venture north into Chile’s San Pedro de Atacama desert! This stretch of arid earth goes on for miles and takes up much of the northern half of the country, but a trip to just one of the many national parks in the area is absolutely worth it. There is so much more to it than just desert — explore salt flats, geysers, mountains, and even public art located far out in the middle of nowhere! The view of the stars at night will be unbelievable, and the experience will be unforgettable.
The Mountains
If you are even luckier and have the opportunity to visit the ominous and famed Patagonia region of Chile, by all means take advantage of it. Access to this region is a bit more difficult than it is to reach the desert, but a long bus ride, flight, or even ferry makes it worth it to see one of the world’s final frontiers. Get up close and personal with glaciers, visit with penguins and other cold-weather wildlife, and test your personal limits with a hike in Torres del Paine National Park, or any other park trails you can make it to. This is truly the place to put yourself out there.
The possibilities for adventure and exploration in Chile are endless, it is just up to you to get outside your comfort zone and take advantage of them. Are you ready to get started interning in Chile with World Endeavors? Get in contact with us today or submit your application!
Posted by World Endeavors on December 15, 2016
World Endeavors believes that international travel has the power to change lives, broaden horizons, and deepen intercultural understanding. The world is undergoing rapid changes, with societies becoming more interconnected and environmentally aware; at the same time a more challenging global economy inspires in many a need to reach out and make a positive difference while seeking personal growth opportunities. There has never been a better time than now to travel abroad.
