During Pre-Columbian days, the country of Chile was a mix and match of various people from different ancient cultures.  The topography was directly responsible for the character of the various groups, even to the dramatic extend of them being subject to the aggression of the Inca Indians.  The farmers to the north were the Aymara who tended herds of Llama and Alpaca while cultivating maize.  Then the coastal areas were primarily where fishermen worked, the mountain regions consisted of the Diaguita Indians, and then to the center and south were the Araucarian Indians, who were barely touched by the invasion of the Incas.  Heading to the remote south part of Chile there were different groups of archipelagic fishers and hunters. 

By 1494, all of the territory to the west of Brazil had been given to Spain in accordance with the Spanish-Portuguese Treaty.  Then, a major task of conquering Chile was given to Pedro de Valdivia, who was able to reach Mapocho Valley in 1541.  That same year, Santiago, Chile was founded with many other great cities following to include Concepcion, La Serena, Valdivia, Valparaiso, and Villarrica.  Unfortunately, just a few years later, much of the native population was wiped out by infectious diseases.  However, the Mestizo population, which is the offspring of the Indian unions and Spanish, were forced into tenant laborers, living on massive estates.  Interesting, in the 1960s, many of these people were still in existence. 

Although there was serious unrest in the 1960s and 1970s, under new leadership, the copper economy of Chile began to rise in the 1990s.  The country would again face problems with leadership in the late 1990s and early 2000s but today, this country is fighting back to rebuild and with success.  Unlike earlier years, Western tourists are less conspicuous than they would be in places such as Bolivia and Peru. 

There are many wonderful Chilean art galleries, museums, and a thriving theater scene.  In addition, folk music is a very valued outlet for the country’s oppressed population.  The food in Chile is amazing but varies widely depending on the region.  For example, there are some areas that are rich in seafood, beef, and fruit and vegetables while other areas prefer delicacies such as blood sausages, intestines, and udders. 

Some of the more popular dishes of Chile include Empanadas, which are large turnovers filled with various types of meats, vegetables, and various other fillings.  Corn tamales, called Humitas are also a favorite dish but these too vary in technique and filling.  The one dish that is standard in every home and restaurant is called Lomo a lo Pobre.  This dish consists of a huge piece of beef that has been topped with two fried eggs and then covered with chips.  Then, Curanto is an excellent stew made from chicken, beef, shellfish, lamb, pork, and potato, which is absolutely delicious. 

The country of Chile is a narrow strip that extends more than 2,600 miles all the way from the north desert region to the south glacial region.  Chile is also bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west and on the east are the famous Andes. Then, the eastern border is shared with Argentina while the northern part of Chile borders with Bolivia and Peru.  All along the country, the widest part is just 124 miles.  Because Chile rises to almost 20,000 feet above sea level, you see amazing diversity through the land.  For example, you could be looking up at snow-capped volcanoes and then down to deep river canyons.  Easter Island is also under the control of Chile, which is one of the offshore territories, along with Juan Fernandes and the island of Tierra del Fuego to the south. 

Just as the topography is so varied, so is the flora and fauna, much which is protected by national park systems.  Within the parks, you would find the Vicuna, a cousin of the Llama, pelicans, penguins, flamingos, sea lions, and many other wonderful creatures.  For plant life, there is the beautiful monkey puzzle tree, cypress trees, the rare alerce trees, and more.  All around is lush, greenery and some type of life form. 

Again, because Chile has such unique and varied topography, the climate also varies depending on the region.  You would find arid temperatures to the north, a nice Mediterranean climate in the heart of the country, and then in the Chilean Patagonia, snow, wind, and rain.  From May to August, expect to experience cooler temperatures whereas the month of January is warm with temperatures around 80 degrees and rainy. 

Chile has many wonderful places to see such as Santiago, which is actually a very modern city.  There, you will discover a variety of street vendors, lively nightclubs, fine restaurants, and then just about an hour away, outstanding white water rafting, pristine beaches, and spectacular skiing.  La Serena is a magnificent beachside city for people who love spending time in the sun.  This city in Chile also offers several vineyards and museums. 

One of the most popular national parks in Chile is called Parque Nacional Puyehue, which is a wonderful place to visit.  There are dense forests where puma live, volcanic scenery, and abundant bird life.  Additionally, if you enjoy hiking, there are a number of nature trails, as well as thermal springs and water falls, and even ski resorts.  Now, if you enjoy getting off the beaten track a little then you might consider Rapa Nui on Easter Island, which is the most remote inhabited island in the entire world.  In fact, you could sail almost 1,200 miles in any direction and never spot inhabited land.  Today, there are just 2,000 people living on Easter Island, most being of Polynesian descent. 

You can also enjoy mountain biking, horseback riding, climbing, and a number of other outdoor activities in many regions of Chile.  Other exciting things to do include attending Fiestas Patrias held in September or the Fiesta de la Virgin del Rosario, one of the strangest of festivals in Chile but fun just the same.  Although you would enjoy traveling to Chile throughout the year, your best time to travel is in the month of March when temperatures and climate is ideal.