Chile is the Best International Destination in the Forbes Travel Awards 2026
Chile has achieved a distinction that marks a turning point in its tourism positioning : it was chosen as " Best International Destination " in the first edition of the Forbes Travel Awards .
The recognition , awarded by the Forbes Travel editorial committee, positions the country as a global benchmark for tourism , highlighting its ability to integrate development, sustainability and inclusion within its proposal.
A strategic recognition for Chile
The 2026 edition marks the debut of these awards, conceived as an editorial initiative to distinguish the most influential players in global tourism , according to the Undersecretary of Tourism .
In that scenario, the fact that Chile won the award at its launch is not a minor detail: it implies an early competitive advantage on the international tourism map .
In the main category , the South American country prevailed over prestigious destinations such as Portugal and Japan , consolidating its position as a preferred option for travelers from all over the world.
The award adds to another recent milestone : the country's prominent presence in the December 2025 edition of Forbes , where it was selected as the featured destination in a special publication distributed to subscribers worldwide, allowing the main attractions of Chile to be showcased to a high-profile global audience .
Global impact
This recognition is not just symbolic. It significantly strengthens the country brand , especially in strategic markets like Europe , where interest in authentic and sustainable destinations continues to rise.
In turn, the award reinforces the confidence of international travelers , tour operators , and investors , who see Chile as a territory with high growth potential . All of this is supported by a tourism proposition based on solid pillars such as diverse landscapes , sustainability , and the opportunity to enjoy unique experiences throughout the country.
The Undersecretary of Tourism , María Paz Lagos , explained that, in 2025, "we received more than 6 million international tourists , which represents a growth of 14.6% compared to 2024 and the best performance of the country since 2017."
“ This is a very significant recognition for Chile and for the entire sector. It is an incentive to continue promoting higher quality tourism and to project Chile towards new destinations and markets .”
What to see in Chile: a tour from north to south
One of the main factors behind this recognition is the country's impressive geographical diversity , which allows visitors to experience different landscapes and climates on the same trip.
In the north, San Pedro de Atacama captivates with its desert landscapes , salt flats and privileged skies for astronomical observation , positioning itself as one of the most iconic destinations on the continent.
In the central zone, Santiago presents itself as the main gateway , combining urban life , culture , gastronomy and proximity to the mountain range , making it a strategic point for travelers.
Further south, Puerto Varas stands out as one of the most charming destinations in the country, recognized for its lake landscapes , its German-influenced architecture and privileged views of volcanoes such as Osorno , consolidating itself as a key point of tourism in the southern zone.
In Patagonia , Torres del Paine National Park offers one of the most recognized postcards in the world , with imposing mountains , turquoise lakes and unique biodiversity , consolidating Patagonia as an unmissable destination .
Recognition as Best International Destination at the 2026 Forbes Travel Awards confirms that Chile stands out not only for its natural beauty , but also for its ability to project itself as a sustainable, innovative, and competitive destination that looks to the future. Discover Chile !
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