Chiloé

Chiloé is an archipelago in southern Chile, within the Los Lagos Region. It comprises Chiloé Island and numerous smaller islands, lying off the coast of the mainland and separated by channels and straits. The archipelago has a wet, temperate climate and landscapes that range from marshlands and forests to rocky shores. It is connected to the mainland mainly by ferries, while a bridge across the channels has been proposed and discussed.

Chiloé has a long history of indigenous settlement before Spanish contact, with groups such as the Chono and Huilliche living in the region. In the colonial era the Jesuits established missions that helped shape the archipelago’s culture and architecture. Chiloé is renowned for its wooden churches, many of which are part of the Churches of Chiloé UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for palafitos, stilt houses built along the waterfront. Local culture preserves distinctive maritime traditions, folklore, and a cuisine that features seafood, roots, and the traditional curanto dish cooked in a ground pit.

Economy and environment: The economy is based on fishing and aquaculture, including salmon farming, plus forestry and tourism. The archipelago sits within the Valdivian temperate rainforest and contains protected areas such as Chiloé National Park and Tantauco Park, which help preserve biodiversity and landscapes.

Notable features: The archipelago is known for its damp climate, wooden architecture, and unique cultural landscape that attracts visitors seeking history, nature, and regional cuisine.