Chile
Spectacular Easter Island
Easter Island is famous the world over for its mythical statues. However, the scenery, from volcanic cones to massive cliffs and secluded beaches, is another great reason to visit this fascinating island. Here’s a photo of Ahu Tongariki, the largest platform with 15 statues (or moai), with impressive cliffs as a backdrop.
Read the accompanying post: “Things to See and Do on Easter Island“.
The salt canyon in the Valley of the Moon
The salt canyon is located in the Valley of the Moon (Valle de la Luna) near San Pedro de Atacama, Chile. The salt canyon was carved by an ancient river which carried huge amounts of salt and other minerals down from the mountains. The river dried up and what remains are the salt crystals which cover the surface of the canyon. From afar, the canyon looks like it’s covered in a thin layer of snow. Walking through the canyon is a bewildering experience. Stop for a minute and listen. The expansion of the salt crystals results in a cracking plastic-like sound. Imagine that cracking sound and multiply it by a thousand. The whole canyon cracks in what seems like a giant symphony!
Read the accompanying post: “A Desert Full of Wonders“.
The Valley of the Moon
The whole canyon is covered in a layer of salt
The salt-covered walls of the canyon were like a giant orchestra
The Serrano glacier in Patagonia
The Serrano glacier is one of numerous glaciers that flows down from the Southern Icefield in the Bernardo O ‘Higgins National Park in Chilean Patagonia. The glacier flows into a small lake which is connected by a small river with the Seno Ultima Esperanza (or Last Hope Sound) near the town of Puerto Natales – the gateway to the Torres del Paine National Park.
Read the accompanying post: “Patagonia – Home of the Gods Part II”
The magnificent cemetery of Punta Arenas
One of the most serene spots in the Chilean town of Punta Arenas is the municipal cemetery. Beautifully sculpted European cypress trees lead visitors along paths lined by ornate mausoleums of the city’s founding families, immigrants and a monument containing the remains of the last Selk’nam Indians who used to live in this region.
Read the accompanying post: “Patagonia: Home of the Gods Part II“.
The El Tatio geysers
The El Tatio geysers in northern Chile is, at 4,500m, one of the highest-elevation geyser fields in the world. It’s a popular attraction for visitors to the nearby desert town of San Pedro de Atacama. Visitors have to get there at the break of dawn to see the geysers – temperatures at this elevation and time of day are far below freezing but the azure blue sky and the surreal landscapes (including the giant termite-hill like fumaroles) make it an unforgettable experience.
Read the accompanying post: “A Desert Full of Wonders“.
