Chile, the world's narrowest country at 4,270 km long but 177 km wide, is wedged between the Andes and Pacific, with the range covering 80% of its length and peaks like Ojos del Salado (6,893 m)—the highest volcano—and Aconcagua (6,961 m) on the border. The Central Valley averages 500 m, flanked by coastal Cordillera de Nahuelbuta (1,600 m). Formed by subduction 200 million years ago, the Atacama Desert in the north is the driest place, with no rain for 400 years. Patagonian fjords span 1,800 km, while the Antarctic Peninsula extends Chile's claim. This dramatic topography includes 42 national parks, with Andean huemul deer and unique Atacama giant cacti.
