What is the geographical nature of Chile?
Chile is characterized mainly by plains bordered by two mountain ranges: the Andes Cordillera to the east and the Coastal Cordillera to the west. The territory also features plateaus and hills, and lies within the Pacific Ring of Fire.
Relief and topography of Chile
Chilean territory is characterized by contrasting geography dominated by three major relief units :
- Central plains : constitute most of the habitable territory
- The Andes Cordillera : eastern mountain range that forms the backbone of the country
- The Coastal Cordillera : western relief less elevated along the Pacific Ocean
Between these two cordilleras also extend plateaus and hills that complete the Chilean geographical mosaic.
Seismic and volcanic activity
Chile occupies a particular position in the Pacific Ring of Fire, which explains its intense geological activity. This geographical situation makes the country one of the most seismic zones in the world, with numerous active volcanoes along the Andes cordillera.
Key points
This unique geography between ocean and mountain gives Chile exceptional climatic diversity, from the Atacama Desert in the north to the glaciers of Patagonia in the south.