September 18th marks the beginning of a time of celebration in Chile. Every year, thousands of Chileans take to the streets to salute the national holidays (Fiestas Patrias) or “the eighteen” (dieciocho) as it is also known.
It is a celebration to commemorate the beginning of Chile’s independence.
Volcan Osorno from Puerto Varas
We have found that there is a lot to admire about Chile, especially the stunning natural landscapes.
The phenomenal Torres del Paine, Patagonia
Our time in Chile has been filled with travel and exploration in the North and South regions. In the North of Chile there is a magical, arid desert with coasts of beaches. The South is an extreme climate, consisting of The Andes mountains and lush, green trees.
Architecture of San Pedro de Atacama in the Antofagasta Region
Natalie’s favorite
Recently I finally got to experience the remarkable desert in the North in San Pedro de Atacama. With all of the rain this year, the desert was filled with rolling hills of flowers. I had never seen anything like it! I was captivated by all of the different types of flowers and colors. It was as if a painter had intentionally brushed the mountains with pinks, purples, yellows, and even blue. I hope to visit the North again to view the various beaches along the coast. It was a trip that I will never forget and the feeling of the magical desert here will remain in my mind forever.
Phenomenal sunset from Valle de la Luna, Atacama DesertLittle penguin chicks with their mama in a penguin hide on Isla Magdalena, Patagonia
Stephanie’s favorite:
Ooh, super-tough call. You can’t really compare the North and the South and pick a favorite. That’d be like comparing apples and oranges – or peras y manzanas, here in Chile! I absolutely loved the gorgeous sunsets and open skies of the north. But… the South has penguins! You already know my obsession with penguins. So, I *loved* Isla Magdalena in Patagonia, but Atacama is gorgeous. Chiloé is pretty fantastic, too. I’m surprised it’s always overlooked by tourists – It’s magical! I’m also a big fan of Pisco Elqui, especially for night photography. But the wine region is also great (because, wine.) And Valpo has amazing character… but then there’s the incredible waterfalls in Pucon. And the mountain pass between Portillo and Mendoza, Argentina is amazing too.
Another gorgeous Atacama sunset in Guatin, outside San Pedro de Atacama
Below are spectacular photos taken throughout the years in Chile. Enjoy!
The Milky Way as seen from San Pedro de Atacama. It really is THAT dark there!
What is your favorite place in Chile to which you’ve traveled? Let us know in the comments below!
If you would like to purchase a limited edition fine art print of the images above please contact us at info@stephaniemillner.com.
Felices Fiestas from Stephanie Millner Photography!
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