There is more than enough in Chile alone for an extremely varied holiday, but a trip in conjunction with one of its near neighbours can be a spectacular combination. To the north, San Pedro de Atacama into Bolivia is an incredible journey over martian terrain and past colourful lagoons ending up at the dazzling salt flats of Uyuni. Alternatively, crossing the ochre red deserts of the Andes east to west links the Atacama with Salta and the fertile wine producing valleys of northern Argentina.
From Santiago it is possible to fly into any other country in Latin America, making even a Galapagos cruise combinable with a tour of Chile. Closer to the Chilean capital though, Mendoza is a short flight or land transfer across the Andes. For the connoisseur this is an opportunity to experience wine production on both sides of the border with the snowy peaked backdrop of the mountains framing the vineyards on both sides.
To the south and in Patagonia there is lots to see in both Chile and Argentina, and many itineraries will seamlessly combine the highlights in each. In the lake district the famous lakes crossing by land and water from Puerto Varas to Bariloche is a fabulous journey showcasing the volcanoes of Chile and the verdant Alpine towns of Argentina. Further south Torres del Paine on the border with Argentina connects perfectly with El Calafate and the Perito Moreno glacier, as well as El Chaltén slightly further up the road for those looking for more trekking options.
For an alternative way of seeing some of the most remote parts of Patagonia, expedition cruises operate between Tierra del Fuego and mainland Chile. Navigations depart from Punta Arenas or Puerto Natales in Chile, and Ushuaia in Argentina allowing access to the untouched wilderness that remains in the Americas southernmost tip.