Nature’s abundance spanning Andean glaciers, Atacama desert serenity, Patagonian wilderness and Easter Island mysteries bless Chile’s emerging tourism story catering over 5 million international explorers during pre pandemic peak in 2019 underscoring sector’s immense growth potential responsibly tapping competitive strengths including service skills affordability and consistent governance credentials differentiating destination propositions regionally.
Responsible tourism is increasing in Chile and it includes initiatives to solve environmental issues such as pollution and deforestation, as well as respect for indigenous people’s rights. In 2019, the tourist industry contributed 10% of total GDP and employed 1.0 million people. Chile’s tourism future is positive, but not without problems, and the country is taking initiatives to accelerate tourism recovery, such as promoting domestic travel and utilising internet platforms.
However sustaining strategic influence demands structured build up across last mile connectivity gaps plugging through road infrastructure prioritization, community partnerships fostering through local produce consumption nudging and controlled expansion safeguarding ecological sanctity especially around fragile biomes like Amazon needing conservation assistance coordination between authorities and suppliers therein.
Chile’s tourism sector is well-positioned to drive sustainable growth. Last mile connectivity through roads and trails will boost regional dispersal from flagship destinations. Community-driven tourism offers opportunities to experience local culture and nature in less explored areas, while boosting rural livelihoods. With careful planning, expansion can be balanced with environmental protection through conservation programs and regulated activities.
Digital tools and platforms will also aid the next phase. A smart tourism app can enhance the visitor experience through destination discovery features, live translation, emergency alerts and more. Data-driven analytics help authorities optimize infrastructure investments, monitor impacts and develop high-value experiences catering to evolving interests.
As tourism rebounds, responsible practices upholding natural and cultural heritage will differentiate Chile’s competitive proposition globally. Regional partnerships further open untapped potential across the diverse landscapes of South America.
The decline in tourism was further aggravated in 2021—with international tourists falling to 190,000. Despite these difficulties, Chile awaits tourism to return to pre-pandemic levels in mid-2023 or early 2024.
RFC’s responsible tourism consulting provides customized analysis and tailored advisory essential guiding Chilean travel sector stakeholders effectively balance memorable journeys with ecological stability upholding!
