The previously colonial cities of Santiago and Valparaiso provide fantastic bases from which to learn about this country’s tumultuous history. Among historical trips worldwide, those in Chile are among the most fascinating, challenging and rewarding. However, to get the best out of Chile historical tours, it is essential to understand and learn about the events following the Pinochet-led 1973 military coup. Even an exploration of Indigenous culture must take the Pinochet years into account as the regime did not encourage expressions of pride in Indigenous heritage.

Chile History Tours

When you are in the capital Santiago, you will wish to visit the poignant Museum of Memory and Human Rights. You can learn about the details surrounding the 1973 CIA-backed military coup d'etat and bear witness to the indomitable human spirit that can triumph over adversity.

Paradoxically, the17 years of anti-democratic, violent oppression and cultural suppression were also years of economic ‘Chicago School’ experimentation. This laid the foundation for the country’s ‘economic miracle’ which bore fruit when democracy returned in the nineties. Chile, along with Uruguay, became the strongest economy (on a per capita basis) in Latin America.

Historical Trips of Pablo Neruda’s Houses

Strongly linked to Chile’s president Allende, assassinated in 1973, was the poet-politician Pablo Neruda. On a Chilean historical tour, you can visit three houses previously owned by the Nobel laurate: La Sebastiana, La Chascona and Isla Negra. La Sebastiana is in the beautiful, hilly, port town of Valparaiso, where the vistas kindled Neruda's poetic genius. La Chascona, in Santiago, is an architectural masterpiece that captures the essence of Neruda's bohemian spirit. Finally, visit Neruda's favourite abode, at Isla Negra, overlooking the idyllic sandy bay.

Tours of Chile’s Colonial History

The historical barrios of Chile’s main cities reflect the country’s colonial past. On tours of Chile, you will stay in Santiago and stroll through the cobblestone streets of Barrio Lastarria, where colonial buildings adorned with wrought-iron balconies and vibrant courtyards transport you to a bygone era. See the neoclassical grandeur of the La Moneda Palace, an iconic symbol of Chile's history and seat of government. At the same time, those with an eye for history will be gripped by the story of Bernado O'Higgins who fought for Chilean and Latin American independence.

The historic quarter of Valparaíso is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Lose yourself in the interconnected alleys of Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción, where colourful houses cling to the hillsides, revealing a blend of European and Latin American influences. The historic heart of Valparaíso pulsates with a bohemian energy, enticing visitors with its unique cafes, vibrant street art and captivating vistas of the Pacific Ocean.

Linked to Chile’s colonial history is the country’s expertise in winemaking. The Spanish colonists introduced the first vines in Chile in the 1500s. ‘Noble’ grape varieties from France were introduced in the 1800s and modern winemaking techniques were introduced in the late twentieth century. Chile is now a world-leader in viniculture.

Indigenous Pre-Columbian Archaeology and Art

Latin America tours often include trips to learn about Indigenous ancient history and culture. In Chile, you can visit fascinating archaeological sites such as Pukará de Quitor near the town of San Pedro de Atacama. This ancient fortress stands proudly against the backdrop of the Atacama Desert. Wander through its weathered stone walls, bearing witness to centuries of history, and imagine the stories of the Atacameño people. In Santiago, you will find the Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art (Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombiano) where ancient art from Central and South America is studied and displayed.

Historical tours of Chile can introduce you to great pre-Columbian ancient civilisations and show you the remnants of a colonial era. You can come to understand something of the collective trauma experienced during the Pinochet era. And you can come to understand how poetry, technology, entrepreneurship, and viticulture have had a role in shaping this incredible nation.

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