The Chiloé Archipelago is a treasure trove of wooden churches, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. These architectural marvels are built using traditional wood joinery without a single nail, showcasing the unique craftsmanship and cultural fusion of the region. Blending Spanish design with local techniques and materials, these churches embody a distinctive architectural style in the Americas and a harmonious blend of European and indigenous cultures.
Every town in the Chiloé Archipelago exudes beauty and tranquility. Here are some must-visit spots on Chiloé Island:
1️⃣ Castro, the largest city and capital of the archipelago, offers a convenient and vibrant lifestyle. Within walking distance, you’ll find large supermarkets, bustling markets, Chinese stores, and a central bus station. The iconic San Francisco Church, with its striking yellow and blue facade, is a must-see.
Castro is also famous for its unique stilt houses, known as “palafitos,” which are built on the seaside or riverbanks and supported by stilts. These brightly colored homes create a picturesque and charming scene. The Municipal Market of Castro is a lively hub where you can sample all kinds of local produce and get a taste of everyday life.
2️⃣ The Muelle de las Almas (Pier of Souls) in Cucao is steeped in the legends of the Mapuche, an indigenous people of southern South America. According to their beliefs, after death, souls come to this place and call out to the ferryman, who will guide them across to the other side. Standing at the end of the pier, facing the vast and surging sea, one can feel a profound sense of emptiness and connection to the spiritual world.
Transport: Tickets are available daily at the bus station. A round trip costs 10,000 pesos, and it takes 2 hours to reach the national park. There is only one bus at 1 PM to the pier, returning at 5 PM.
❗️It is recommended to take the 9 AM bus to the national park, where the entrance fee is 7800 pesos.
After spending two hours there, take the 1 PM bus to the pier. The entrance fee for the pier is 3000 pesos, and it takes about an hour to walk from the bus stop, which is an easy and enjoyable stroll.
❗️Don’t miss the wooden church in the town of Cucao, which adds to the area’s rich cultural heritage.
3️⃣ Nercon, Chonchi, Puqueldon, and Detif can be explored in a single day. However, fewer buses run on weekends, so it’s best to plan your visit from Monday to Friday.
4️⃣ Dalcahue, Curaco De Velez, Achao, and Quinchao can also be visited in one day, but Quinchao is more remote with limited bus services, so hitchhiking or skipping it might be necessary for the return journey. Curaco De Velez has recently been repainted from green to pink, giving it a fresh and delightful look.
Nearby, there’s a salmon restaurant that stands out in the culinary landscape of Chile, offering delicious meals for 7500 pesos. The owner is extremely friendly and serves a generous vegetable salad. It was a first-time experience trying king oyster mushroom sashimi, which was surprisingly delightful.
5️⃣ Tenaún, with fewer buses on Sundays, is best visited from Monday to Saturday. Unfortunately, we didn’t get to visit, but it’s definitely worth adding to your itinerary.
6️⃣ Other charming locations, such as Quellón, are well-connected with hourly bus services, making it easy to visit their picturesque churches. We also embarked on a scenic boat ride to Puerto Cisnes, a hidden gem that evokes the enchanting beauty of Hallstatt! With ample time, you’ll find an abundance of captivating sights and experiences to discover.
