Viña del Mar forms part of an ongoing Pacific Ocean coastal urban center, built around the estuary of the Marga Marga.

It is a popular tourist destination, with one of the most visited beaches in Latin America. It is also home to the Festival de la Canción Internacional - e industrial, a well known musical festival which takes place in February each year.

Many of the regions main roads come together on the Autopista del Mar, which unite the many local agricultural populations. With regards to its industrial activities, they include of sugar refinement, vegetable oil, fruits and petrochemical production, as well as wine, textiles and soap.

The city includes beautiful mansions, luxurious hotels, parks and gardens, social clubs, a casino, a municipal theatre, sporting facilities (such as the horseracing track and the famous Valparaíso Sporting Club) as well as many beaches. The palace on the Cerro Castillo is the summer residence for the Chilean president.

Situated 112 km northwest of Santiago, the city lies on a large bay facing the Pacific Ocean. It has a population of around 275,000 inhabitants.

It is an important maritime port and industrial center, and one of the largest cities of the country. Among its economic activities are food processing and the production of fabrics, clothing, leather, petrochemical and metal products.

Valparaíso is the seat of legislative power, and offers a great variety of beautiful and picturesque places - squares, hills, varied quarters, small fishing creeks, beaches, avenues and streets full of twists and turns which offer the visitor typical landscapes full of beauty and nobility.

Foreign travelers must pass through customs inspection when entering the country. If you are carrying only personal items you shouldn't have any problems, as long as you do not possess: 

• Fruits, seeds, vegetables or non-processed animal products.
• Firearms, ammunition or explosives.
• Illegal drugs