Chile is divided into 16 regions, each with its own cultural, historical, and geographical identity. From the arid deserts of the north to the icy landscapes of Patagonia, each region tells a unique story of Chile's rich heritage and diverse climate zones.
Regions are identified by Roman numerals (I to XVI) and the Metropolitan Region (RM), roughly from north to south. The most populous is the Santiago Metropolitan Region; the largest by area is Magallanes, which includes Chilean Antarctica.
Use the map and the list to the right: click a region on the map or its name in the list to zoom in, then click the region again to see population, capital, and area (2024 Census).
| Code | Region | Capital | Area (km²) | Population (2024 Census) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I | Tarapacá | Iquique | 42.225,8 | 369.806 |
| II | Antofagasta | Antofagasta | 126.049,1 | 635.416 |
| III | Atacama | Copiapó | 75.176,2 | 299.180 |
| IV | Coquimbo | La Serena | 40.579,9 | 832.864 |
| V | Valparaíso | Valparaíso | 16.396,1 | 1.896.053 |
| VI | O'Higgins | Rancagua | 16.387,0 | 987.228 |
| VII | Maule | Talca | 30.296,1 | 1.123.008 |
| VIII | Biobío | Concepción | 37.068,7 | 1.613.059 |
| IX | Araucanía | Temuco | 31.842,3 | 1.010.423 |
| X | Los Lagos | Puerto Montt | 48.583,6 | 890.284 |
| XI | Aysén | Coyhaique | 108.494,4 | 100.745 |
| XII | Magallanes | Punta Arenas | 132.297,0 | 166.537 |
| XIV | Los Ríos | Valdivia | 18.429,5 | 398.230 |
| XV | Arica y Parinacota | Arica | 16.873,3 | 244.569 |
| XVI | Ñuble | Chillán | 13.178,5 | 512.289 |
| RM | Metropolitana | Santiago | 15.403,2 | 7.400.741 |
Región de Arica y Parinacota
Once part of Peru, it became Chilean territory after the War of the Pacific (1883). Rich in pre-Columbian cultures (Aymara, Chinchorro mummies).
Desert climate with mild, warm temperatures year-round. Known as the "city of eternal spring."
Región de Tarapacá
Key region in the saltpeter boom of the 19th century, later annexed from Peru after the War of the Pacific.
Extremely arid desert climate, hot days, cool nights, and little rainfall.
Región de Antofagasta
A Bolivian territory until 1879, when it became part of Chile. Copper mining has dominated since the 20th century.
Desert climate with coastal influence. Mild on the coast, dry and hot inland.
Región de Atacama
Known for mining (silver at Chañarcillo in 1832) and agriculture in its valleys. Strong colonial and indigenous heritage.
Desert climate but with fertile valleys and occasional rainfall. Warm days, cool nights.
Región de Coquimbo
Known for agriculture, colonial churches, and pirate stories along its coast. La Serena is one of the oldest cities in Chile (1544).
Semi-arid, with sunny, dry weather and mild winters.
Región de Valparaíso
The port of Valparaíso flourished in the 19th century as a major stop for ships before the Panama Canal opened. UNESCO World Heritage site.
Mediterranean climate – warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters.
Región Metropolitana de Santiago
Founded in 1541, Santiago became the political, economic, and cultural capital of Chile.
Mediterranean climate – hot, dry summers and cool, rainy winters.
Región del Libertador General Bernardo O'Higgins
Named after Bernardo O'Higgins, independence leader. A mix of agriculture and mining since colonial times.
Mediterranean climate with warm summers and rainy winters.
Región del Maule
Historic site of independence battles (1814 Battle of Rancagua nearby). Known for traditional agriculture and wine.
Mediterranean, slightly colder and rainier than Santiago.
Región del Biobío
A zone of historic conflict between the Spanish and the Mapuche. Later an industrial center with Concepción as capital.
Mediterranean to temperate, with high rainfall in the coastal and mountain zones.
Región de Ñuble
Formerly part of Biobío, became a region in 2018. Important for crafts, farming, and folk traditions.
Mediterranean with continental influence – warm summers, cold winters with frost.
Región de La Araucanía
Stronghold of the Mapuche people, who resisted Spanish and Chilean conquest until late 19th century ("Pacification of Araucanía").
Temperate with abundant rainfall, lush forests, and snowy winters in the Andes.
Región de Los Ríos
German immigration in the 19th century shaped its architecture and culture. Capital Valdivia was rebuilt after the 1960 earthquake (largest ever recorded).
Rainy temperate climate, lush forests, and rivers.
Región de Los Lagos
Settled by German immigrants in the 19th century. Chiloé Island preserves unique folklore and wooden churches (UNESCO).
Rainy temperate climate with oceanic influence. Cool and wet year-round.
Región de Aysén del General Carlos Ibáñez del Campo
A remote Patagonian frontier, colonized late (20th century) with cattle ranching and settlers from Chiloé.
Cold oceanic climate – abundant rain, strong winds, and snowy winters.
Región de Magallanes y de la Antártica Chilena
Gateway to Antarctica. Punta Arenas flourished in the 19th century with sheep farming and international trade. Torres del Paine is world-famous.
Subpolar oceanic climate – very cold, windy, and harsh, but slightly milder in Punta Arenas.
From the arid deserts of Arica and Antofagasta to the rainy forests of Los Ríos and Los Lagos, and finally to the icy landscapes of Patagonia and Antarctica, Chile's 16 regions showcase a unique blend of history, climate, and culture. Each region offers distinct experiences for travelers, from ancient archaeological sites and colonial architecture to modern cities and pristine wilderness areas.
Understanding these regional differences is essential for planning your Chilean adventure, whether you're interested in historical sites, natural wonders, or cultural experiences. Each region's unique identity contributes to Chile's remarkable diversity within its long, narrow geography.
Rent a car and start your journey through these incredible destinations.
Browse Our Fleet
