The
myriad of islands of the Chiloé Archipelago lie
off the coast of N. Patagonia & the Southern Lake District but a visit is
like taking a step
back in time. Colonized over 300 years prior to nearby Puerto Montt,
life in the islands revolves around the rhythms of harvests and tides.
The area has a rich history, including 17th century pirate attacks, Darwin's
visit on The Beagle and an extensive missionary past, resulting in over 150
impressive wooden churches (16 of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites).
The region's rich
cultural life is accompanied by a
diverse natural beauty that includes
endless beaches, a rugged Pacific coast that is home to a unique penguin
colony (the only place in the world where Humbolt and Magallanic penguins
next side by side), countless bays that are home to a fascinating maritime
culture and dense native forest broken by picturesque rolling farmlands. The islands of Chiloé
are THE place for travelers looking to be immersed in a warm and hospitable
culture in lovely surroundings with Mother Nature always present.
