Loading place details...

Things to do in Chiloé Archipelago

Discover the best attractions and experiences Chiloé Archipelago has to offer

🏛️

Historic Monuments

Chiloé’s history is written in its wooden churches and distinctive waterfront architecture. Explore remarkable examples of seafaring life and regional craft.

Wooden Churches of Chiloé (UNESCO World Heritage)

A group of uniquely carved wooden churches scattered across the archipelago, famed for their design and history.

Castro Palafitos (Stilt Houses)

Iconic wooden homes built on stilts above the water, lining Castro’s shoreline.

Iglesia de Achao

Historic wooden church on Isla Quehui, one of the archipelago’s celebrated religious structures.

🖼️

Museums

Learn about Chilote life, maritime heritage and local culture through a few dedicated museums across the islands.

Museo Regional de Ancud

Exhibits on Chiloé’s history, maritime heritage and regional life.

Museo de las Tradiciones Chilotas

Displays rooted in Chilote crafts, folklore and everyday life.

Museo del Artesanado Chilote

Showcases traditional woodwork and artisanal techniques from the archipelago.

Religious Monuments

Religious sites showcase the distinctive woodcraft and coastal spirituality that define Chiloé.

Iglesias de Chiloé (Wooden Churches)

A hallmark of the archipelago’s heritage, celebrated for their wooden architecture.

Iglesia de Achao

An iconic wooden church on Isla Quehui, part of the sacred ensemble of Chiloé.

Iglesia de San Francisco, Castro

Historic church serving as a focal point of Castro’s religious life.

🌳

National & Theme Parks

From protected coastal landscapes to forested reserves, Chiloé’s parks offer dramatic scenery and wildlife.

Parque Nacional Chiloé

Coastal and forested landscapes with diverse wildlife and hiking trails.

Parque Tantauco

Private nature reserve featuring long trails, lakes and coastal viewpoints.

🏘️

Neighborhoods

Explore the charm of Chilote towns and neighborhoods where daily life and history mingle.

Castro (Palafito district)

Historic waterfront area with stilt houses and scenic views.

Dalcahue

Quaint town known for its market, wooden houses and riverside charm.

Chonchi

Coastal town with a long pier, church and lively local culture.

💸

Free Things to Do

Delightful experiences that don’t require an entry fee and reveal Chiloé’s natural beauty.

Castro waterfront palafitos viewing

Walk along the water and admire the iconic stilt houses from the shore.

Cucao Beach walk

Roam along the wide sandy beach and enjoy the sea breeze.

Coastal sunset strolls in Quemchi

Relaxing evenings by the water with scenic views.

🍷

Gastronomy

Chiloé’s cuisine centers on seafood, earthy flavors and time-honored cooking methods.

Curanto

Traditional seafood and meat dish cooked in a hole in the ground with hot stones.

Paila marina

A hearty seafood soup reflecting the archipelago’s bounty.

Empanadas Chilotas

Savory turnovers filled with local ingredients and flavors.

🌃

Nightlife

Evenings can be relaxed with local music, dances and casual waterfront venues.

Cueca nights at Castro plazas

Traditional Chilean dance evenings in public squares.

Live folk music at local peñas (Castro/Ancud)

Informal venues offering regional songs and storytelling.

Evening waterfront strolls with street performances

Ambient shows and markets along the coast at dusk.

🎭

Entertainment

Cultural experiences and performances showcase Chilote arts and storytelling.

Theatre and cultural performances in Castro

Seasonal plays and concerts in local cultural venues.

Folk shows and handicraft demonstrations

Live demonstrations of traditional Chilote crafts and music.

Festival activities in Dalcahue

Local celebrations featuring food, music and traditional performances.

Sports

Adventure and water-based activities highlight the archipelago’s outdoor spirit.

Kayaking around the Chiloe archipelago

Paddle through calm coves and along rugged coastlines.

Penguin watching at Puñihuil

Boat or shore-based wildlife viewing of penguin colonies.

Hiking in Tantauco Park trails

Explore forested trails and scenic overlooks.

🧭

Off the Track

Step off the typical routes to discover lesser-known corners and local ways of life.

Ruta de las Iglesias de Chiloé

Scenic route connecting several of the archipelago’s wooden churches.

Boat trip to Isla Quehui and Isla Meul

Visit small islands with traditional villages and coastline.

Cheese and seafood farm visits in Lemuy Island

Hands-on experiences with local producers and flavors.