13-Day Tour Chile from North to South: Explore Deserts, Lakes, Volcanoes & Wildlife

Embark on a 13-day adventure through Chile, from the vibrant capital of Santiago to the breathtaking Atacama Desert, stunning lakes and volcanoes in Puerto Varas, and the diverse wildlife in Punta Arenas. Discover the jewels of this beautiful country on a journey of a lifetime!

Duration: 13 days
Cancellation: 72 hours
Highlights

Arrival in Santiago

Santiago - Upon arrival at Santiago International Airport, you must approach the local transfer operator to be assigned to a vehicle that will take you to your selected hotel in the city. You are free for the rest of the day to explore the city at your leisure if you want to.

Santiago City Tour

Plaza de Armas - Plaza de Armas is the starting point of Chile, also called kilometer 0, it is the historic heart of Santiago. Here you can admire the Metropolitan Cathedral and other historical buildings that surround the square such as the Municipality, the Post Office and the History Museum.

La Moneda - We will continue to the Palacio de La Moneda, this iconic building is the presidential headquarters of Chile. You can learn about its history and architecture, as well as watch the changing of the guard if it coincides with the tour schedule.

Barrio Lastarria - Then we will go towards the charming Lastarria neighborhood, known for its bohemian atmosphere, cobblestone streets, cafes, art and culture shops. It is an ideal place to walk and explore.

Cerro Santa Lucia - On one side of this picturesque neighborhood is Cerro Santa Lucía. If it is open and time permits, we can climb to a natural viewpoint with gardens and trails that offer impressive panoramic views of the city and the Andes.

Barrio Bellavista - We will continue climbing through the capital until we reach the Bellavista neighborhood, we will explore this vibrant neighborhood, famous for its lively nightlife, colorful murals and picturesque architecture. Here you will also find La Chascona, one of the houses of Pablo Neruda, the famous Chilean poet.

Parque Arauco - Free time to have lunch. On your own.

Pirque - We will leave at 13 hrs to arrive after 40 minutes to Pirque. Here we will be greeted by a guide in Don Melchor square, who will invite us to enjoy a panoramic view of the Pirque vineyard accompanied by a glass of wine, to be able to immerse ourselves in the aromas and flavors that arise from our passage in this centenary winery.

Concha y Toro - We will visit the old park with our glass in the hand while we appreciate the Casona of Pirque, residence of the Concha y Toro family. Here, more than 100 years ago, the largest wine company in the country was born.

We will learn more about the development of the vines, the cultural management, and the technology that together generates a top quality performance. As a flourish, we can taste a glass of Cavernet Sauvignon while we know the old facilities.

Valparaiso and Vina del Mar

Curacavi - We will start our tour from your hotel in Santiago around 08:00 am, on a 120 km trip to the Pacific Ocean. We will appreciate the diversity of the landscape of the Curacaví Valley, to follow the Casablanca Valley, which is best known for the great production of white wine of Sauvignon Blanc strain.

Plaza Sotomayor - We will arrive at Valparaíso, where we will be surprised with its houses anchored in the hills and its picturesque landscapes. We will know the Victory Square, Sotomayor Square, the Monument to the Naval Glories, and the Paseo 21 de Mayo where we will go up to the viewpoint to appreciate one of the most important ports in the country.

Plaza Victoria - Plaza Victoria, also called Plaza de La Victoria, is located in the El Almendral sector of the city plan of Valparaíso. From the second half of the 19th century it became important as a social center of the city.

Paseo 21 de Mayo - We will go up to the viewpoint to appreciate one of the most important ports in the country.

Cerro Alegre - We will take a walk along Cerro Alegre, getting on the different elevators, to blend in with the local environment.
This neighborhood is recognized for its colorful, novel and comfortable architecture mixed with the nature and profuse arrangement of gardens that contribute to accentuate the pictures.

Flower Clock (Reloj de Flores) - We will continue the tour to Viña Del Mar, known as The Garden City.
The first stop is The Flower Clock which has become one of the most popular tourist sites for visitors, and according to the locals, those who photograph themselves with it behind their backs will return to Viña del Mar.

Vina del Mar - Our next stop is the Casino Municipal de Viña del Mar, inaugurated in 1930 to enhance the city today is consider as an historical and architectural interest place.

Playa Renaca - We will take a walk through this beautiful locality of staggered buildings on the slopes of the hills and an extensive beach epicenter of summer fun for locals and visitors.
Here we will have time to take a lunch and walk around the beach (lunch not included).

Quinta Vergara - On our return to Santiago along the coastal path, we will visit the emblematic Quinta Vergara, known for its International Song Festival. We will arrive into Santiago around 6PM.

Arrival in San Pedro de Atacama

Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport - After breakfast at the hotel and depending on the flight schedule, free time until they pick us up to go to the Airport.

Calama - Upon arrival at Calama Airport, you must approach the local transfer operator to be assigned to a vehicle that will take you to your selected hotel in San Pedro. You will have the rest of the day free to relax and explore the town.

Atacama and Altiplanic Lagoons

San Pedro de Atacama - Our adventure begins early, between 06:00 and 06:30 hrs, from your hotel in San Pedro de Atacama, to make the most of the day and immerse ourselves in the amazing diversity of landscapes that await us.

Piedras Rojas - We will ascend to an impressive 4,000 meters above sea level until we reach the Piedras Rojas, a unique geological formation characterized by its intense red rocks that contrast spectacularly with the turquoise waters of the lake that surrounds them. Here you will have the opportunity to explore this surreal landscape and capture stunning photographs.

Lagunas Miscanti y Miniques - We will continue ascending until we reach almost 4,200 meters above sea level, where the impressive Miscanti and Miñiques Altiplanic Lagoons await us. These beautiful high mountain lagoons, located in the Los Flamencos National Reserve, offer dreamlike panoramic views, surrounded by majestic mountains and habitat for a variety of wildlife. It will be a perfect time to watch birds and immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the region.

Iglesia de Socaire - Then, we will go to the town of Socaire.

Laguna Chaxa - Our next destination will be the fascinating Laguna Chaxa, part of the vast Salar de Atacama. This salty lagoon is home to flamingos and other aquatic birds, attracted by its high salt and nutrient content. Here you will have the opportunity to observe these beautiful birds in their natural habitat and marvel at the uniqueness of the fauna and flora of the place.

Salar de Atacama - The Salar de Atacama, the largest salt flat in Chile and one of the largest in the world, will welcome us with its impressive salt landscapes and wide horizons. We will enjoy a delicious breakfast and lunch in a unique setting, while we explore the fascinating salt formations and marvel at the immensity of the landscape.

San Pedro de Atacama - At the end of our exploration, we will return to San Pedro de Atacama, where we will drop you off near the municipal parking lot so you can continue exploring the charming town or return to your hotel on your own. If you prefer, our private service can take you directly to your hotel.

Valley of the Moon

San Pedro de Atacama - We will leave your hotel at approximately 2:30 p.m. (the schedule may change depending on the time of year and weather conditions).

Cordillera de la Sal - We will begin our adventure with an exciting climb to the Great Dune, where we will witness a spectacular panoramic view that encompasses the entire valley and its unique geological formations.
We will continue exploring ancient salt mines and discovering the fascinating history behind this precious resource. Immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of the valley as we walk among curious rock structures and learn about the unique geology of the region.

Valle De La Luna - But the experience doesn’t end here. Our trip will culminate at the Kari Viewpoint, where we will be greeted by the most impressive spectacle of all: the sunset over the majestic Cordillera de la Sal.
Prepare to be captivated by the vibrant colors of the sky as the sun sinks behind the horizon, creating a landscape worthy of a work of art.
Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this once in a lifetime experience.

San Pedro de Atacama - After this magical moment, we will return to San Pedro and we will leave you near the municipal parking lot, from there you can tour the town a little or return to your hotel on your own, if you prefer to take the private service we can leave you at the hotel where we picked you up.

Arrival in Puerto Varas

San Pedro de Atacama - After breakfast at the hotel and depending on the flight schedule, free time until they pick us up to go to the Airport.

Puerto Montt - Arrival at Puerto Montt, where a driver will be waiting for us to take us to the selected hotel in Puerto Varas. Rest of the day off.

City Tour in Puerto Montt and Puerto Varas

Puerto Varas - We will start leaving between 14.00 and 14.30 from our hotels in Puerto Varas or Puerto Montt.
First we will explore Puerto Varas, the picturesque “City of Roses,” starting with a scenic stop along the waterfront to admire the panoramic view of the bay and the “Aurora” sculpture against Lake Llanquihue. Visit the iconic Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a replica of a German church, and explore the Old Quarter, settled by German immigrants. Enjoy views of Osorno Volcano while descending towards downtown, with its charming lakeside promenade showcasing the natural beauty of the region.

Puerto Montt - Leaving behind the beauty of Puerto Varas, we’ll head towards Puerto Montt, just 20 km to the south. Known as the Capital of the Lakes and Volcanoes Region, we’ll visit the city’s highest point to enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean and Tenglo Island. Our journey continues to the Monument to the German Settlers, located in front of the Plaza de Armas and the waterfront pier, where we’ll immerse ourselves in the architectural heritage and cultural blend of the area.

Mercado Tipico Angelmo - Later, we’ll head towards the Angelmó sector, renowned in our country for its abundance of craft stores and, of course, the Fishermen’s Cove. Here, we’ll witness the daily activities of the seafaring community as they bring in the fresh catch of seafood and fish, which are then sold at the market. You’ll also find typical eateries offering the most delicious and traditional local dishes that characterize our region.

Puerto Varas - This experience serves as the perfect starting point for your journey through this beautiful Los Lagos Region. It’s typically recommended to undertake in the afternoon, making it an ideal way to gain a general overview of both cities, which are conveniently located close to each other.

Frutillar Tour

Puerto Varas - We will start our pick up in Puerto Varas to continue later towards Lake Llanquihue, the second largest lake in the country.

Lago Llanquihue - We will begin our excursion, visiting the city of Llanquihue, famous for its cured meats and the place of origin of the Maullín River, it is part of the old Route of the Colonists. In the city we will visit Los Cisnes Beach and the Pier that has a beautiful view of the Lake and the Volcanoes. Then we will skirt Llanquihue Lake to head towards Frutillar.

Frutillar - We arrived at this city, which is a beautiful town reminiscent of Bavaria, where its first settlers came from. It emerged in 1856 as a shipping dock, soon appearing tanneries, mills, breweries, etc. We will walk around its beautiful old German-style houses, admiring its well-kept gardens and its incomparable view of the Osorno and Puntiagudo volcanoes.

Museo Colonial Aleman - Optionally, passengers can access the German Colonial Museum that shows the life of the colonists or enjoy a coffee with a typical German pastry from this area.
On its waterfront we will observe the Teatro del Lago where the famous “Musical Weeks of Frutillar” are held annually with worldwide attendance.

Teatro del Lago - Also Optionally, We can visit the Lake Theater, one of the largest and most modern in South America, and the German Colonial Museum, to understand more about the history in the area (tickets not included).

Puerto Varas - After the visit, we will be returning to our selected hotels in Puerto Varas or Puerto Montt.

Arrival in Punta Arenas

El Tepual Airport - After breakfast at the hotel and depending on the flight schedule, free time until they pick us up to go to the Airport.

Punta Arenas - Arrival at Punta Arenas, where a driver will be waiting for us to take us to the selected hotel. Rest of the day off.

Punta Arenas City Tour

Punta Arenas - Our adventure begins with departure from the hotel at the agreed time.
Punta Arenas, located in the Strait of Magellan, is a connection point between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, and a common starting point for exploring the surrounding nature and Antarctica.

Plaza Munoz Gamero - During our adventure, we will visit monuments and emblematic places of the city. We will start in Plaza Muñoz Gamero, the heart of Punta Arenas since the end of the 19th century.

Monumento a Hernando de Magallanes - Here, you can explore the local craft stalls and admire the Monument to Hernando de Magellan, the navigator who gave the strait its name.

Museo Salesiano / Magiorinno Borgatello - Optional, If you wish, you can choose to make a stop at one of the museums and cultural centers in the city, such as the Salesiano Maggiorino Bergatello Museum or the

Nao Victoria Museo - Optional, Nao Victoria, a full-scale replica of Hernando de Magellan’s ship. These places offer a fascinating insight into the maritime and cultural history of the region.

Mirador Cerro De La Cruz - As a highlight of the tour, we will visit Cerro de la Cruz, which offers stunning panoramic views of the city, the Strait of Magellan and the Island of Tierra del Fuego. This is the perfect place to capture photographs and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

Monumento Al Ovejero - Throughout the tour, we will learn about the rich history of Punta Arenas and its role in Antarctic exploration and colonization of the region. Before returning to the hotel, we will explore the northern sector of the city, where we will be able to see monuments dedicated to the sheep farmer, the Croatian immigrant and oil.

Punta Arenas - This city tour in Punta Arenas is an excellent way to get to know the city and its rich cultural heritage. Return to the hotel.

Magdalena Island and Penguin Colony

Costanera de Punta Arenas - We will head towards Punta Arenas pier and start our sailing at 7:30 am. There we will embark to travel to Isla Magdalena.

Isla Magdalena - During navigation, we can enjoy beautiful panoramic views. We can see fishermen’s coves, oil fields, and the mythical Island of Tierra del Fuego. We can also see different species that make up the local birdlife. Also, with a little luck, we can see southern dolphins near our boat.
We will dock at Isla Magdalena after sailing for two hours, arriving at the Los Pingüinos Natural Monument. Here we will be exploring the place where more than 120,000 Magellanic penguins live together with various species of birds and sea lions.
We will go up the paths that go from the coast to the highest part of the island, being able to see a few meters to these birds and their nests. The penguins arrive in this sector in mid-October and begin their reproduction, nesting, and change of feathers, ready to migrate north in mid-March.
In this sector is the Center for Environmental Interpretation and Faro. Going up the steep stairs of the center we can get the most incredible view of Magdalena Island.

Farewell

Presidente Carlos Ibáñez del Campo International Airport - After breakfast at the hotel and depending on the departure time of our flight, we will have free time until they pick us up to go to Punta Arenas International Airport. Our services end here.

What's Included
  • Accommodation
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Transfer in / out to the airport in Spanish
  • Excursions in Spanish or English
What's Not Included
  • Flights
  • Extras, Meals and Others NOT Specified in itinerary
  • Entrances fees
  • Personal expenses
Additional Information

By purchasing this package, you will experience the gems of this stunning nation, travelling from its capital, Santiago, through the world’s driest desert, Atacama, and then heading south on the southern route. Discover the splendour of the lakes and volcanoes from Puerto Varas, Chile’s most southern city, along with its splendid wildlife from Punta Arenas.

Enjoy a plethora of scenery as we invite you to explore the finest parts of Chile from North to South in a journey spanning 13 days.

  • Take into account that due to the height and climatic conditions of the region this package is available for people between 8 and 65 years.
  • Rates NOT valid for Carnival, Easter, Long Weekends, Winter Holidays (July) Congresses and Special Dates.
  • The order of the tours may vary according to weather conditions or availability.
  • These tours are not recommended for pregnant women or people with heart problems. If you have any health problems, consult your doctor before booking.
Cancellation Policy

If you cancel at least 4 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

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October 2024
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