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Palafito Houses - Castro - Chile
Palafito Houses - Castro - Chile

Discover Castro (Chiloe Island), Chile

Wooden Churches. Seafood Delights.

The biggest city on Chiloé and the capital of the archipelago, Castro is located on a bluff overlooking the sea and its famous waterfront palafitos — colourful wooden houses built on stilts. The city blends local traditions and a storied past with a modern, trendy atmosphere and is known for its burgeoning culinary scene and surrounding natural beauty. Whether you wish to take to the water on a kayak tour, visit historic sites and museums or journey inland to explore the windswept and wild interior, this island offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Exciting Shore Excursions

Immerse yourself in authentic experiences with our Shore Excursions, expertly guided by locals.

Snapshots of Castro (Chiloe Island)

A visual preview of the amazing sites that await you.

Gamboa Palafitos Stilt Houses - Castro, Chiloe Island, Chile Gamboa Palafitos Stilt Houses
Quemchi, Chiloe Island, Chile - November 25,2019- Capture of a group of birds called curlew. Migratory birds from southern Chile. Birds on beach shore. Group of birds
Church of San Francisco at Plaza de Armas Square - Castro, Chiloé Island, Chile Church of San Francisco at Plaza de Armas Square
Gorgeous Colored and Wooden Churches, Chiloe Island, Chile. Gorgeous Coloured and Wooden Church
A Wooden Bridge and a Picturesque View of the Traditional Stilt Houses on the Island of Chiloe, Chile Bridge Town

Travel Tips & Interesting Info

Uncover Hidden Gems & Fun Facts

Most colourful place I've seen in Chiloe Island !

Famous For

The island of Chiloé is known for its unique architecture and culture, delicious cuisine and unspoiled landscapes.

Curanto meal, tipical from chiloe island at southern chile

Exquisite Flavours

Curanto is a traditional feast of seafood, meat, and potatoes cooked underground that defines the region. Don't miss the milcao and chapaleles, unique potato dishes.

Gorgeous Colored and Wooden Churches, Chiloe Island, Chile.

Fun Facts

After the Spanish arrived in the 16th century, they built hundreds of small wooden churches on the island. 16 that remain today are UNESCO World Heritage Sites that you can visit. Or tour the Centro de Visitantes Inmaculada Concepción museum in Castro to view replicas of the churches.

Port Name & Location

Port of Castro - Chile

Language

In Castro, Spanish is the primary language spoken. To ask how much something costs, say, ¿Cuánto cuesta…?" "Por favour" means please while "gracias" is thank you and "much gusto" means nice to meet you.

Time Zone

Chile Standard Time UTC/GMT-4

Currency & Shopping

The Chilean Peso is the main form of currency used in Castro. Feria Artesanal is a vibrant waterfront market where you can haggle with vendors for a wide range of goods, including bakestry and woollen products.

Featured Castro (Chiloe Island) Itineraries

Learn More about Castro (Chiloe Island)

Read more on our official travel blog.

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