Chile: Long, Narrow Land of Contrasts

Chile, stretching 2,670 miles along South America's western edge but averaging only 110 miles wide, is one of the world's most geographically unique countries. From the Atacama Desert (Earth's driest place) to Patagonian glaciers, Chile encompasses extraordinary landscape diversity.

Geographic Extremes

Chile's length spans 38 degrees of latitude, creating extreme climate and landscape variations. The Atacama Desert in the north receives almost no rainfall, while southern Patagonia has glaciers and fjords. The Andes Mountains form Chile's eastern border, with many peaks over 20,000 feet. Easter Island (Rapa Nui), 2,300 miles offshore, is Chile's most remote territory.

Economic Success

Chile has South America's highest GDP per capita, with a developed economy based on copper mining (Chile produces a third of the world's copper), agriculture (Chilean wine has gained international acclaim), and fishing. Economic reforms have made Chile one of Latin America's most stable and prosperous nations.

Cultural Identity

Chilean culture blends indigenous (Mapuche) and Spanish influences. Pablo Neruda, Chile's beloved poet and Nobel laureate, captured Chilean spirit and landscape in his works. Chilean folk music, featuring the cueca dance, expresses national identity, while modern Chile has vibrant urban culture in Santiago.