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| Image: Subsecretaria de Turismo |
The Chilean village of Ralco has been recognized as one of the 55 Best Tourism Villages in the world, an honor granted by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in November 2024. This international recognition highlights rural destinations that are shaping the future of sustainable and community-based tourism.
In its fourth edition, held in Colombia, the UNWTO selected 55 villages from more than 260 nominations across over 60 member countries. These communities stand out for their ability to combine authentic local culture, natural beauty, and responsible tourism practices.
It’s easy to see why Ralco earned its place on the list. Nestled in the Andes Mountains of Chile’s Biobío Region, Ralco blends pristine nature, ancestral Pehuenche culture, and rich biodiversity—making it a hidden gem for travelers seeking both adventure and cultural depth.
Selection Criteria
Villages were evaluated according to a series of sustainability and management criteria, including:
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Cultural and Natural Resources
- Promotion and Conservation of Cultural Heritage
- Economic Sustainability
- Social and Environmental Sustainability
- Tourism Development and Value Chain Integration
- Governance and Tourism Prioritization
- Infrastructure, Connectivity, Health, and Safety
These standards ensure that each selected village exemplifies a balanced and responsible tourism model that benefits local residents and visitors alike.
A Glimpse into Ralco’s History and Culture
Ralco is home to the Pehuenche people, one of the Mapuche groups who have lived in the Andes for centuries. Deeply connected to the Araucaria forests and the piñón (the edible seed of the monkey puzzle tree), their traditions, crafts, and way of life are central to Ralco’s identity.
Travelers can explore this heritage at the Museo Pewenche, an excellent starting point to learn about the community’s history, art, and spiritual relationship with nature. Many local families also open their homes or workshops to visitors interested in learning ancestral weaving, wood carving, and traditional cuisine.
How to Reach Ralco
Ralco is located in the commune of Alto Biobío, about 150 km east of Los Ángeles, the nearest urban center with transportation and services.
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By Air: The closest airport is María Dolores Airfield in Los Ángeles, though it operates limited flights. The best option is Carriel Sur International Airport in Concepción, which offers regular flights from Santiago and other major Chilean cities.
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By Road: From Concepción (around 126 km to Los Ángeles), travelers can continue to Ralco by rural buses or car rental, following the scenic Route Q-61-R through forested valleys and mountain views.
Natural Wonders
Ralco’s setting in the Andes is nothing short of breathtaking. The Ralco National Reserve is home to majestic mountains, crystal-clear rivers, and native forests filled with endemic flora and fauna, including several endangered species.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy:
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Hiking and trekking along well-marked trails
- Birdwatching in pristine ecosystems
- Sport fishing in glacial rivers
- Relaxing in natural hot springs nearby
The reserve also provides a chance to see the iconic Araucaria trees, a symbol of southern Chile’s wilderness.
Commitment to Sustainable Tourism
Ralco’s recognition as one of the world’s best tourism villages is rooted in its strong environmental and cultural stewardship. The local community actively promotes eco-friendly practices, limits overdevelopment, and encourages visitor education about conservation.
Visitors can take part in eco-tours, community-led excursions, and cultural exchange programs that directly benefit local families. Ralco’s model demonstrates how tourism can support preservation instead of exploitation.
Unique Experiences
What makes Ralco unforgettable is the opportunity to experience authentic rural life in the Chilean Andes:
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Relax in natural thermal baths surrounded by forested peaks.
- Join Pehuenche craft workshops and learn traditional techniques.
- Taste local dishes made with piñones, wild herbs, and river trout.
- Stay in eco-lodges or rustic cabins managed by local families.
The warmth and hospitality of the Pehuenche community make every visit to Ralco a deeply personal and enriching experience.
Travel Tips
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Best Time to Visit: From October to March (spring and summer), when weather conditions are ideal for outdoor activities.
- Access: About a five-hour drive from Concepción.
- Accommodation: Options include eco-lodges, guesthouses, and mountain cabins, many offering guided excursions and local cuisine.
Chile’s Presence in the Best Tourism Villages Program
Chile has stood out consistently in the UNWTO Best Tourism Villages program, participating in all four editions.
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2021: Pica and Puerto Williams
- 2022: Puqueldón
- 2023: Barrancas, Pisco Elqui, and Caleta Tortel
- 2024: Ralco joins the list, reaffirming Chile’s commitment to sustainable rural tourism.
With this recognition, Chile now has six villages that embody the harmony between community, culture, and conservation.
Final Reflection
Ralco is more than a destination—it’s a living example of how tourism can preserve nature and empower local traditions. For travelers seeking authentic experiences, stunning landscapes, and genuine cultural encounters, Ralco is truly one of the best rural places to visit in Chile.
Location
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