The Discoverer VALPARAISO

Valparaíso. The unofficial cultural capital of Chile. With its eclectic street art and steep hills, this city is edgy and charming, a full-blown artistic expression of the highs and lows of Chilean culture. Stretched along the sea, and offering unbeatable vistas of vibrant buildings and rolling ocean waves, this sunny city is one of our favorite South American treasures.

Valpo," as the locals call it, is built on a series of hills or “cerros”, making this city a vertical challenge. There are a few tourist attractions to catch your eye, but time is better spent exploring the hills. Climb the decorated stairs or ride a rickety funicular to the top. Each cerro holds a new wonder, from Nobel-winning author Pablo Neruda’s house and stunning vistas of the sea, to architectural wonders and incredible street art.

The city is one of the most important ports in Chile, so checking out the seaside activity is a must. Catch a boat ride from Muelle Prat. You won’t find any luxury cruises here, but you’ll have a blast on an old fishing boat with the locals. Look out for sea lions and get some picture-perfect views of the colorful houses from the water. Afterwards, hit up a local beach, like Las Torpederas, for a little sun and relaxation.