Valparaíso

Quilpué

Quillota

San Felipe

Hanga Roa

Viña del Mar

Villa Alemana

San Antonio

Los Andes

Hacienda La Calera

Limache

La Ligua

San Esteban

Cartagena

Llaillay

Easter Island, also known as Rapa Nui, is a small island located in the southeastern Pacific Ocean, and is part of the territory of Chile. It is best known for its enigmatic stone sculptures, known as Moai, which are among the most recognizable cultural icons of the Pacific. The Moai are monolithic human figures that range in height from 4 to 33 feet, and were carved by the Rapa Nui people between the 12th and 17th centuries.

The island was likely settled by Polynesian sailors in the 4th or 5th century, and over time the Rapa Nui people developed a complex society and culture, which is evident in their art, architecture, and written records. The island was later visited by Dutch and Spanish explorers, and the population declined dramatically due to slave raids and disease brought by the visitors. In the late 19th century, the island was annexed by Chile, and today the Rapa Nui people are considered a distinct ethnic group and a recognized indigenous people.

Easter Island is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is protected as a national park. Visitors to the island can admire the Moai, as well as other archaeological sites and cultural landmarks, and learn about the unique history and culture of the Rapa Nui people. The island is also known for its beautiful beaches, scenic hiking trails, and abundant wildlife, and is considered a destination for eco-tourism. Despite its remote location, Easter Island continues to be a popular destination for tourists and is considered one of the most mysterious and intriguing places in the world.

Easter island

Perched between the sea and the sky, the Ascensor El Peral is one of Valparaíso’s most iconic funiculars, carrying passengers from the bustling Plaza de la Justicia near the port up to the artistic Cerro Alegre. Since opening in 1902, this charming wooden lift has connected the lower port area with the historic hills above, offering not only a practical means of transportation but also a panoramic journey through time and history. Today, it remains one of the city’s most beloved landmarks and a must-visit experience in Valparaíso’s UNESCO World Heritage area.

The Ascensor El Peral was inaugurated on December 7, 1902, making it one of the earliest of Valparaíso’s more than 30 funiculars built during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Designed to ease access between the city’s steep hills and its port, it quickly became an essential part of everyday life for residents.

Built by Federico Page, the funicular was originally powered by a water counterbalance system before later being converted to electricity. Over the decades, it endured earthquakes, modernization efforts, and temporary closures—but thanks to careful restoration, it continues to operate with much of its original charm intact.

Interesting Facts
- The Ascensor El Peral connects Plaza de la Justicia (in the lower city) to Paseo Yugoslavo, a beautiful terrace overlooking the bay.
- The upper station opens near the Museo de Bellas Artes de Valparaíso (Palacio Baburizza) a stunning art museum housed in a 1916 mansion.
- The funicular covers a 70-meter track and climbs a 36° incline, taking about one minute to reach the top.
- The original wooden cars have been carefully restored, preserving the look and feel of early 20th-century Valparaíso.
- The ride offers spectacular views of the harbor, the hills, and the colorful houses that make the city so unique.
- In 1998, the Ascensor El Peral was declared a National Monument of Chile, recognizing its cultural and historical value.

Travel Tips
- Location: Between Plaza de la Justicia (Calle Urriola) and Paseo Yugoslavo, in the Valparaíso Historical Center.
- Operating Hours: Typically open daily, though hours can vary seasonally—check locally before visiting.
- Fare: Very affordable, around a few hundred Chilean pesos—a nostalgic and scenic bargain.
- Accessibility: The lower station is easily accessible from the port area and main streets; the upper station connects to several walking routes on Cerro Alegre.

Nearby Attractions:
- Palacio Baburizza (fine arts museum)
- Paseo Yugoslavo, one of Valparaíso’s most beautiful viewpoints
- Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción, filled with murals, cafes, and boutique hotels
- Photography Tip: The best view is from the upper platform—especially at sunset when the golden light reflects on the bay below.

Valparaiso

Ascensor El Peral

Stretching along Chile’s scenic Pacific coast, the Coastline of Viña del Mar (Costa de Viña del Mar) is one of South America’s most charming and glamorous seaside destinations. Known as the “Garden City” (Ciudad Jardín) for its lush parks, palm-lined avenues, and blooming flower beds, Viña del Mar combines beach relaxation, coastal beauty, and urban sophistication. With golden sands, elegant architecture, and a lively cultural scene, its coastline has been attracting visitors for over a century—making it the crown jewel of Chile’s central coast.

Founded in 1874, Viña del Mar originally developed as a resort town for Chile’s elite, who built summer homes overlooking the ocean. Its proximity to Valparaíso—Chile’s historic port city—helped it grow quickly into a popular holiday retreat. By the early 20th century, Viña del Mar had established itself as a symbol of elegance, with grand hotels, manicured gardens, and beautiful promenades lining the sea. Today, it remains one of Chile’s top beach destinations, known for its modern vibe and timeless charm.

Interesting Facts
- Viña del Mar hosts the International Song Festival, one of the most famous music events in Latin America, held every February at the Quinta Vergara Amphitheater.
- The city’s emblematic flower clock (Reloj de Flores) near Caleta Abarca Beach welcomes visitors with colorful floral designs that change seasonally.
- Its name, Viña del Mar, means “Vineyard by the Sea,” reflecting the area’s early agricultural roots.
- The coastline features a mild Mediterranean climate, with cool ocean breezes year-roundperfect for leisurely strolls along the promenade.

Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit:
December to March (summer) for beach activities and festivals.
April to November for quieter visits and coastal walks.
- Getting Around: The Metro Valparaíso connects Viña with nearby Valparaíso; taxis and buses also run frequently along the coast.
- What to Bring: Sunscreen, light layers (evenings can be cool), and a camera for the stunning sunsets.
- Dining: Don’t miss local seafood specialties like ceviche, reineta, and empanadas marinas at seaside restaurants.
- Nearby Attractions: Explore Valparaíso’s colorful hills, Concon’s sand dunes, or take a wine tour in the Casablanca Valley.

Vina del Mar

Coastline of Vina del Mar

Chile

Valparaíso

Cities in Valparaíso

Valparaíso

Quilpué

Quillota

San Felipe

Hanga Roa

Viña del Mar

Villa Alemana

San Antonio

Los Andes

Hacienda La Calera

Limache

La Ligua

San Esteban

Cartagena

Llaillay

Explore Valparaíso