🇨🇱 Chile: A 13-Day Adventure from Desert to Glacier

Welcome to Chile! Upon arriving at Santiago’s Arturo Merino Benítez Airport (SCL), you will be transferred to your hotel. After settling in, begin your exploration of this dynamic South American capital with a relaxing stroll. Head to the charming Lastarria neighborhood, a cultural and gastronomic hub. Its European-style architecture, cobblestone streets, and leafy parks make it perfect for a gentle introduction to the city. Browse the artisan street market, peek into independent designer stores, and find a quaint cafe for your first Chilean coffee, soaking up the sophisticated, bohemian atmosphere.

As evening descends, immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the Bellavista neighborhood. This area is famous for its colorful street art, lively bars, and a huge variety of restaurants. It’s also home to one of Pablo Neruda’s houses, La Chascona. For dinner, choose a restaurant in the Patio Bellavista, a beautifully designed open-air plaza, or find a more traditional spot on the main street, Constitución. This is the perfect opportunity to try classic Chilean dishes and toast the beginning of your adventure with the national drink, a perfectly crafted Pisco Sour, capping off a relaxing yet culturally rich first day.

Young Travelers: After exploring Lastarria, hike or take the funicular up Cerro San Cristóbal for stunning sunset views over the city. In the evening, dive into Bellavista’s energetic nightlife, with its numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues, for a lively start to your trip.

Seniors: A pre-booked private transfer from the airport to your hotel is highly recommended. For the afternoon, a leisurely walk through the flat and beautiful Sculpture Park (Parque de las Esculturas) in the Providencia neighborhood is a lovely, peaceful activity. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a high-quality restaurant in the sophisticated El Golf district.

Family: The Parque Bicentenario de la Infancia (Bicentennial Children’s Park) at the foot of Cerro San Cristóbal is a fantastic and unique playground with slides, water features, and creative play structures. For dinner, the family-friendly atmosphere of Patio Bellavista offers a wide variety of food choices to please everyone.

With Disability: The modern neighborhoods of Providencia and Las Condes have well-paved sidewalks and are the most accessible parts of the city. The Costanera Center, South America’s tallest building, is fully accessible and offers spectacular city views from its Sky Costanera observation deck. A pre-booked accessible vehicle for transfers is the best option.

Luxury Travel: Arrive in a chauffeured luxury vehicle and check into a five-star hotel in the exclusive Vitacura or El Golf neighborhoods. In the evening, enjoy a private wine tasting with a sommelier at your hotel, followed by a reservation at Boragó, consistently ranked as one of the best restaurants in the world, for a truly exceptional culinary welcome to Chile.

Adventure: Ditch the main neighborhoods and explore the more gritty and historic Barrio Brasil or Barrio Yungay. Discover their magnificent, slightly faded architecture, vibrant street art, and traditional local restaurants for a more off-the-beaten-path and authentic first impression of the city.

Nature: Santiago is framed by the Andes. For a gentle immersion in nature, take a walk through the beautiful Parque Forestal, a long, elegant park that runs alongside the Mapocho River and is home to the National Museum of Fine Arts. It’s a perfect green corridor for a relaxing afternoon stroll.

For a luxurious stay with an artistic flair, The Singular Santiago in the Lastarria neighborhood offers a rooftop pool, a spa, and timeless neoclassical elegance. A fantastic mid-range option is the Meridiano Sur, Petit Hotel, a charming and highly-rated boutique hotel in a restored house in the vibrant Providencia district. For a fun and budget-friendly stay, the RQR Hostel offers a modern, clean, and social atmosphere with both dorms and private rooms, conveniently located near the Baquedano metro station, the gateway to Bellavista and Lastarria.

The Singular provides a sophisticated and perfectly located base for exploring the city’s cultural heart. Meridiano Sur offers a more intimate, personalized, and cozy experience in a lively and safe neighborhood filled with great restaurants. RQR Hostel is an excellent choice for social and budget-conscious travelers, providing a comfortable and friendly hub for meeting others and exploring the city’s most dynamic areas on foot.

Upon arriving at Santiago Airport (SCL), the most secure and straightforward way to get to your hotel is by using one of the official transport services available just after you exit customs. Transvip and Delfos offer shared shuttle services (“transfer”) which are a cost-effective option, or private taxis at a fixed rate. This is preferable to hailing a taxi from the curb to ensure a fair price. It’s also a good idea to withdraw some Chilean Pesos (CLP) from an ATM at the airport for immediate expenses.

Santiago’s metro system is modern, clean, and efficient, making it the best way to get around the city for longer distances. Purchase a “Bip!” card at any station and load it with credit for easy travel on both the metro and public buses. For your first day, be mindful of the effects of a long flight. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and take it easy to allow your body to adjust. The tap water in Santiago is safe to drink but has a high mineral content, so some travelers prefer to stick to bottled water.

For your arrival day in Santiago, comfortable clothing for the flight and a relaxed first exploration is key. Santiago’s climate is Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers (December-February) and mild, damp winters (June-August). In summer, lightweight clothing like linen trousers, shorts, or a sundress is perfect. In winter, you’ll need a jacket, a sweater, and long trousers. For the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn), layering is the best strategy—a t-shirt, a sweater or fleece, and a light jacket.

Santiaguinos tend to dress smartly. While casual attire is fine for daytime sightseeing, you will feel more comfortable in smart-casual wear, especially in neighborhoods like Lastarria and Providencia. A pair of comfortable yet stylish walking shoes or sneakers is essential. For your evening in Bellavista, the vibe is relaxed and bohemian, so your smart-casual daytime attire will be perfectly appropriate. There’s no need for formal wear.

For your first night, the Patio Bellavista offers a great introduction to Chilean food in a lively and safe environment. This open-air complex is filled with a variety of restaurants serving everything from fresh seafood to grilled meats. It’s a great place to try a “pastel de choclo” (a corn and meat pie) or a “chupe de mariscos” (a hearty seafood stew). For a more traditional experience, find a restaurant on Constitución street, the main thoroughfare of Bellavista.

You cannot start your Chilean journey without trying a Pisco Sour. This cocktail, made with pisco (a grape brandy), lime juice, syrup, and egg white, is the national drink. For a truly authentic experience, visit a classic bar like Chipe Libre – República Independiente del Pisco in the Lastarria neighborhood. They specialize in pisco and offer a huge variety of different sours from both Chile and Peru, allowing you to taste the nuances of this iconic South American spirit.

From Santiago’s Arturo Merino Benítez Airport (SCL), the most convenient and safe options are the official transport services. You can book a private taxi or a shared shuttle (“transfer”) from the counters of companies like Transvip or Delfos located in the arrivals hall. This provides a fixed price and takes you directly to your hotel. Public buses are a cheaper option but are less convenient if you have luggage.

Once in the city, Santiago’s neighborhoods like Lastarria, Bellavista, and Providencia are best explored on foot. Walking allows you to appreciate the architecture, street art, and vibrant atmosphere. For traveling between these neighborhoods or to other parts of the city, the Santiago Metro is excellent. It’s clean, efficient, and easy to navigate with a “Bip!” card. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Cabify are also widely available and are a good option for evening travel.

Delve into the heart of Santiago’s history and culture with a morning exploration of its historic center. Start at the Plaza de Armas, the city’s main square and the original center of the Spanish colonial settlement. Here you can admire the impressive architecture of the Metropolitan Cathedral, the historic Central Post Office building, and the Palacio de la Real Audiencia, which now houses the National History Museum. A guided walking tour of this area is highly recommended to learn about the city’s foundation and Chile’s turbulent and fascinating history. From the plaza, take a walk down the main pedestrian thoroughfare, Paseo Ahumada, to experience the bustling commercial heart of the city.

After your historical immersion, gain a new perspective on the city by ascending Cerro San Cristóbal, a large hill that dominates the city skyline and is part of the vast Metropolitan Park. You can reach the summit via a scenic funicular railway or a modern cable car. At the top, you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the entire city of Santiago, sprawling out towards the magnificent, snow-capped Andes mountains that form a dramatic backdrop. The summit is also home to a large statue of the Virgin Mary and a peaceful sanctuary. It’s the perfect place to appreciate the city’s scale and its stunning natural setting, especially in the clear air of the late afternoon.

Young Travelers: After the walking tour, explore the vibrant Barrio Italia, known for its antique shops, independent designer boutiques, and trendy cafes and restaurants. It’s a great area for a unique lunch and some creative inspiration. The cable car up Cerro San Cristóbal is a fun and scenic ride.

Seniors: A hop-on, hop-off bus tour is an excellent and comfortable way to see the main sights of the historic center and get to the base of the funicular for Cerro San Cristóbal without extensive walking. The funicular provides easy and direct access to the summit and its spectacular views.

Family: The Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, located near the Plaza de Armas, has a world-class and fascinating collection that can be very engaging for older children. The funicular and cable car rides at Cerro San Cristóbal are a huge hit with kids, and the summit offers plenty of space for them to enjoy the views and the atmosphere.

With Disability: The Plaza de Armas and its surrounding pedestrian streets are flat and accessible. The Pre-Columbian Art Museum is fully accessible. At Cerro San Cristóbal, both the funicular and the cable car are wheelchair accessible, as are the main viewing platforms at the summit, making this a fantastic and accessible way to see the city from above.

Luxury Travel: Hire a private guide for an in-depth tour of the historic center, including a visit to the opulent Municipal Theatre of Santiago. For your afternoon ascent, your guide can arrange for a private vehicle to take you to the summit of Cerro San Cristóbal, followed by a visit to a private art gallery in the upscale Vitacura neighborhood.

Adventure: For a more active day, hike up Cerro San Cristóbal instead of taking the funicular. There are numerous trails leading to the summit, offering a great urban workout and different perspectives of the city as you climb. It’s a popular activity with local joggers and cyclists.

Nature: The Metropolitan Park on Cerro San Cristóbal is one of the largest urban parks in the world. After visiting the summit, spend the afternoon exploring its extensive grounds, which include the National Zoo, two large public swimming pools (in summer), and a beautiful botanical garden, offering a full day of nature and recreation.

Your Santiago hotel remains your base for today. The central location of a hotel like The Singular Santiago in Lastarria is perfect, placing you within easy walking distance of the Plaza de Armas and the base of Cerro San Cristóbal. A stay in Providencia at a hotel like Meridiano Sur, Petit Hotel also offers great access, with a pleasant walk through Parque Balmaceda to reach the Bellavista entrance to the funicular.

By staying in the same hotel, you can enjoy a full day of exploration without the interruption of packing and moving. You can easily return to your room for a rest between your morning historical tour and your afternoon ascent of the hill. This convenience is key to enjoying a packed day of sightseeing that covers both the cultural and scenic highlights of the city.

The best time to go up Cerro San Cristóbal for the clearest views is in the late afternoon, especially after a day of rain when the smog has cleared. The sun will be behind you as you look towards the Andes, illuminating the mountains beautifully. The historic center can be very crowded, so keep an eye on your belongings. A free walking tour can be a great, budget-friendly way to get an overview of the Plaza de Armas and its history; just be sure to tip your guide at the end.

The Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art is widely considered one of the best museums in Latin America and is well worth a visit if you have an interest in history and art. It’s located just a couple of blocks from the Plaza de Armas. When visiting the Metropolitan Cathedral, remember that it is an active place of worship, so be quiet and respectful. Photography is usually permitted, but without flash.

For a day of city exploration, comfortable walking shoes are paramount. You will be covering a lot of ground on paved but sometimes uneven sidewalks. Smart-casual attire is appropriate for the day. In summer, lightweight trousers or a skirt/dress and a top will be comfortable. In the cooler months, layers are key—a sweater and a jacket will be necessary for the morning and evening.

The top of Cerro San Cristóbal can be windy and a few degrees cooler than the city below, so having an extra layer like a windbreaker or a sweater is a good idea, even on a warm day. The sun can be very strong, so a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential, especially for the afternoon at the summit. A smart yet comfortable outfit will allow you to transition easily from historical sightseeing to enjoying the panoramic city views.

For an authentic and historic lunch experience, head to the Mercado Central (Central Market). This magnificent wrought-iron building is a bustling market famous for its fresh seafood. While the restaurants in the center of the market are quite touristy, the smaller eateries around the perimeter offer delicious and authentic dishes like “caldillo de congrio” (a hearty conger eel stew, famously praised by Pablo Neruda). It’s a vibrant and flavorful place for a memorable midday meal.

In the evening, explore the burgeoning culinary scene in the Lastarria neighborhood. Bocanáriz is a fantastic choice, a celebrated wine bar that offers a huge selection of Chilean wines by the glass, with creative and delicious food pairings. It’s the perfect place to explore the diversity of Chile’s wine regions. For something more casual, the nearby Barrio Italia is filled with excellent and innovative pizzerias, bistros, and charming restaurants set in beautiful old houses.

The historic center, centered around the Plaza de Armas, is best reached by the metro. Take Line 5 to the Plaza de Armas station, which exits directly onto the square. The entire downtown area is then best explored on foot. To get to Cerro San Cristóbal, you can take the metro to Baquedano station. From there, it’s a 10-15 minute walk through the Bellavista neighborhood to the main entrance of the Metropolitan Park and the base of the funicular on Pío Nono street.

The ascent of Cerro San Cristóbal can be done via the funicular from the Bellavista entrance, or via the cable car (teleférico) which has an entrance in the Providencia neighborhood (Oasis station). A popular option is to go up one way and come down the other, which gives you different perspectives of the park and the city. You can buy a combined ticket for this. Once at the summit, the viewing platforms are a short walk from the funicular and cable car stations.

Embark on a full-day trip to the Pacific coast to explore two of Chile’s most famous cities. Your first stop is the vibrant, gritty, and incredibly photogenic port city of Valparaíso, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This city is a chaotic maze of steep hills, and its main attraction is the city itself. The best way to explore is by wandering through the “cerros” (hills), particularly Cerro Concepción and Cerro Alegre. Here you will find a stunning open-air art gallery of colorful murals, graffiti, and mosaics. Ride one of the city’s historic “ascensores” (funicular elevators) to get up the steep inclines and enjoy the stunning views of the brightly painted houses and the bustling port below.

In the afternoon, travel a short distance up the coast to the neighboring city of Viña del Mar. Known as the “Garden City,” Viña offers a complete contrast to Valparaíso’s bohemian charm. It is a modern, upscale beach resort with beautiful parks, pristine sandy beaches, and elegant avenues. Visit the famous Flower Clock (Reloj de Flores), a city landmark, and take a stroll along the coastal promenade. If you’re lucky, you might even be able to dip your toes in the cool waters of the Pacific Ocean. Many tours also include a stop at a winery in the Casablanca Valley, a renowned cool-climate wine region famous for its Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, on the way to or from the coast.

Young Travelers: Take the public bus to Valparaíso for a budget-friendly and authentic experience. Spend the day getting lost in the street art-filled alleyways. For lunch, grab a classic “chorrillana” (a massive plate of fries topped with meat, onions, and fried eggs) at a local restaurant, a dish that originated in the city. The bohemian bars of Valparaíso are great for an afternoon drink.

Seniors: An organized tour from Santiago is the most comfortable and convenient way to visit both cities. The tour will handle all the driving and navigation. In Valparaíso, a tour will focus on the most accessible viewpoints and a gentle walk through the main parts of Cerro Alegre. The flat, wide promenade of Viña del Mar is perfect for a relaxing seaside stroll.

Family: The colorful houses and street art of Valparaíso are very stimulating for children. The ride on the historic funiculars is a fun adventure. In Viña del Mar, the long, sandy beaches provide a great space for kids to run and play. A visit to the Fonck Museum, with its original Moai statue from Easter Island, can also be a fascinating stop.

With Disability: Valparaíso’s steep hills and stairs make it extremely challenging for wheelchair users. The best way to experience it is from the flat, lower part of the city (El Plan) or from accessible viewpoints that can be reached by vehicle. Viña del Mar is much more accessible, with a flat, paved coastal promenade and accessible parks and buildings.

Luxury Travel: Hire a private car and guide for a bespoke coastal tour. This allows you to visit La Sebastiana, one of Pablo Neruda’s most beautiful and whimsical houses in Valparaíso. Enjoy a gourmet seafood lunch at a restaurant with stunning ocean views, followed by a private wine tasting at a top-rated winery in the Casablanca Valley on your return journey to Santiago.

Adventure: Take a street art tour with a local artist in Valparaíso to gain a deeper understanding of the stories and politics behind the murals. For a coastal adventure, you could try surfing or stand-up paddleboarding at the beach in Concón, just north of Viña del Mar, which is famous for its waves.

Nature: On the way to the coast, stop at La Campana National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, for a hike. The park is home to the rare Chilean Palm and offers fantastic views from its trails. Alternatively, near Viña del Mar, visit the Roca Oceánica, a protected sanctuary for seabirds, for some excellent bird-watching opportunities.

You will return to your Santiago hotel after this full-day trip. Staying at the same hotel, such as the comfortable and centrally located Meridiano Sur, Petit Hotel, allows for a simple and relaxing end to a long day. Most organized tours to Valparaíso and Viña del Mar offer pick-up from central Santiago hotels, making the logistics of the day very straightforward.

The convenience of having a familiar base in Santiago means you can leave your main luggage and travel with just a small daypack to the coast. After a full day of exploring the vibrant hills of Valparaíso and the breezy promenades of Viña del Mar, you will appreciate the comfort of returning to your own room for a good night’s rest before your journey to the Atacama Desert the next day.

Valparaíso’s charm lies in its labyrinthine streets, but it’s also easy to get lost. While wandering is part of the fun, it’s wise to stick to the main tourist areas of Cerro Concepción and Cerro Alegre, especially in the evening. As a busy port city, some of the lower, non-tourist areas can be unsafe, so be aware of your surroundings. A guided tour can provide security and peace of mind while ensuring you see the best parts of the city.

The Casablanca Valley is one of Chile’s premier wine regions, and a stop at a winery is a highly recommended part of this day trip. Wineries like Casas del Bosque or Emiliana Vineyards offer excellent tours and tastings. If you are traveling independently, you will need a car or a taxi to visit the wineries, as they are located along the main highway between Santiago and the coast. If you are on a tour, check if a winery visit is included in the itinerary.

For your coastal day trip, layers are essential. The weather can be unpredictable and can change quickly. It can be sunny and warm in Santiago, but cool, foggy, and windy in Valparaíso, especially in the morning. A t-shirt, a fleece or sweater, and a windproof jacket is the perfect combination. Comfortable walking shoes with a good grip are an absolute must for navigating the steep, cobbled hills and numerous staircases of Valparaíso.

The sun can be strong on the coast, even if it’s windy, so sunglasses and sunscreen are still important. The overall style in Valparaíso is bohemian and casual, while Viña del Mar is slightly more polished. A smart-casual and practical outfit will work perfectly for both cities. You are unlikely to go swimming as the Pacific water here is very cold, so swimwear is not necessary.

Valparaíso has a fantastic and creative culinary scene. For lunch, find a restaurant in Cerro Alegre or Cerro Concepción with a terrace offering stunning views of the bay. The area is known for its excellent seafood. Restaurants like Fauna or El Internado offer delicious food in a trendy, artistic setting. A classic local dish to try is “merluza frita” (fried hake) with a simple salad.

In Viña del Mar, the focus is also on fresh seafood, often in a more upscale setting along the coastal promenade. If your tour stops in the Casablanca Valley, many of the wineries have excellent restaurants, such as Tanino at the Casas del Bosque winery, which offer beautiful vineyard views and gourmet food paired with their wines. This can be a wonderful and relaxing lunch stop on your way back to Santiago, saving you from having to find a place for dinner after a long day.

The most convenient and hassle-free way to visit both Valparaíso and Viña del Mar in a single day is by joining an organized tour from Santiago. These tours typically include round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a bilingual guide, and a well-planned itinerary that covers the highlights of both cities, and sometimes a winery visit. This is the most efficient option for a day trip.

To go independently, frequent and comfortable buses run from the Pajaritos or Alameda bus terminals in Santiago to Valparaíso. The journey takes about 90 minutes. From Valparaíso, it’s a very short bus or metro (Merval) ride up the coast to Viña del Mar. You can then take a direct bus from Viña del Mar back to Santiago. While this offers more flexibility, it requires more self-navigation and time management to fit everything into one day.

In the morning, you will be transferred to Santiago’s airport for your flight north to Calama (CJC), the gateway to the Atacama Desert. The flight takes approximately two hours. Upon arrival in Calama, you will be met for your transfer to the beautiful oasis town of San Pedro de Atacama, a journey of about 1.5 hours across the arid desert landscape. After checking into your hotel and having some time to acclimatize to the high altitude (around 2,400 meters or 7,900 feet), you will embark on your first desert excursion in the late afternoon.

Your tour will take you to the famous Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley), a stunning area of the Salt Mountain Range. This valley is known for its incredible lunar-like landscapes, featuring strange salt and clay formations, vast sand dunes, and a salt-crusted ground that crunches under your feet. You will explore some of the valley’s highlights, such as the salt caves and the “Three Marys” rock formation. The tour culminates at a viewpoint high above the valley, where you will watch a spectacular sunset. The changing colors of the sky over the unique landscape, with the Licancabur volcano in the distance, is a truly magical and unforgettable experience.

Young Travelers: For a more active experience, try sandboarding down the giant dunes in the nearby Death Valley (Valle de la Muerte). It’s a thrilling and fun way to interact with the unique desert landscape. The town of San Pedro is very walkable and has a lively backpacker scene with many casual bars and restaurants.

Seniors: It is very important to take the first day easy to acclimatize to the high altitude. Drink plenty of water and coca tea. A tour to the Moon Valley is a gentle activity, with minimal walking required to enjoy the main viewpoints. A comfortable, pre-booked transfer from the airport is essential.

Family: Kids will love the feeling of being on another planet in the Moon Valley. Scrambling through the salt caves and running up the giant sand dune are great adventures for them. The spectacular sunset is a magical experience for the whole family to share.

With Disability: The high altitude can be a concern for some. The main viewpoints in the Moon Valley are accessible from the vehicle, offering great views without the need to walk on the uneven terrain. Many of the main streets in San Pedro de Atacama are unpaved, which can be challenging. A hotel with good accessibility is key.

Luxury Travel: Stay at an all-inclusive luxury lodge like Tierra Atacama or Explora Atacama. These lodges offer a full program of expertly guided private or small-group excursions, gourmet meals, an open bar, and spa facilities. Your private guide will take you to a more exclusive, crowd-free spot to watch the sunset over the Moon Valley with cocktails and appetizers.

Adventure: Rent a mountain bike in San Pedro and cycle to the Moon Valley on your own. This gives you the freedom to explore the valley’s various trails and viewpoints at your own pace. It’s a challenging ride due to the altitude and the sun, but very rewarding for experienced cyclists.

Nature: A photography-focused tour of the Moon Valley will ensure you are at the best possible locations to capture the incredible light and shadow play during the golden hour and sunset. A knowledgeable guide can help you find the most unique compositions and explain the fascinating geology of the Salt Mountain Range.

For a world-class, all-inclusive luxury experience, the Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa offers stunning architecture, a beautiful pool with volcano views, and a full menu of guided excursions. A fantastic mid-range option is the Noi Casa Atacama, a charming and tranquil hotel with a lovely pool and a relaxing atmosphere, just a short walk from the town center. For a comfortable and highly-rated budget option, Hostal Kirckir offers clean private rooms, a friendly host, and a great location in San Pedro.

Tierra Atacama provides a seamless and luxurious adventure, where every detail is taken care of. Noi Casa Atacama offers a perfect blend of comfort, style, and tranquility, serving as a beautiful oasis to return to after your desert explorations. Hostal Kirckir is an excellent choice for travelers who want a simple, clean, and welcoming base with a personal touch, providing great value in an expensive town.

Acclimatization to the high altitude of San Pedro de Atacama (2,400m / 7,900ft) is the most important thing on your first day. Take it very easy. Walk slowly, avoid heavy meals and alcohol, and drink copious amounts of water. Coca tea (“mate de coca”) is a local remedy that can also help with the symptoms of mild altitude sickness. Your body needs time to adjust, so a gentle afternoon tour is the perfect level of activity for your arrival day.

The desert sun is extremely strong, even when it doesn’t feel hot. The UV index is very high due to the altitude and lack of pollution. Sunscreen with a high SPF, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses are non-negotiable. The air is also incredibly dry, so lip balm and moisturizer are essential to prevent chapped lips and dry skin. Being prepared for these environmental factors is key to a comfortable and enjoyable desert experience.

For your travel day and the Moon Valley tour, layers are essential. The temperature in the Atacama can fluctuate dramatically. During the day, it can be very warm and sunny, so lightweight trousers or hiking pants and a t-shirt (preferably with sun protection) are ideal. As soon as the sun sets, the temperature plummets, and it can get very cold, very quickly. You must bring a warm fleece and a windproof jacket for the sunset viewing and the evening.

Sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes or hiking boots are the best footwear for walking on the rocky, sandy, and salty terrain of the Moon Valley. A sun hat, sunglasses, and of course, high-SPF sunscreen are crucial. A small backpack is perfect for carrying your extra layers, a large bottle of water, your camera, and some lip balm.

San Pedro de Atacama has a surprisingly excellent and diverse dining scene for such a remote town. The main street, Caracoles, is lined with restaurants catering to tourists. For a great meal, try Adobe, a popular restaurant with a large, cozy courtyard featuring open fire pits. They serve a mix of Chilean and international dishes and have a great atmosphere. For something more upscale, Baltinache offers creative fusion cuisine with a focus on local, indigenous ingredients in an intimate setting (reservations are essential).

On your first night, it’s advisable to have a relatively light dinner to help with acclimatization. Many restaurants offer set menus (“menú del día”) which can be a good value. For a more casual and budget-friendly option, look for small local eateries in the side streets off the main square. Trying dishes with local ingredients like quinoa and llama meat can be a unique part of the Atacama experience.

The journey starts with a domestic flight from Santiago (SCL) to El Loa Airport in Calama (CJC). The flight takes approximately two hours. Major Chilean airlines like LATAM and Sky Airline operate this route frequently. From Calama airport, you will need to take a ground transfer to San Pedro de Atacama, which is about 100 km away and takes around 1.5 hours. It is highly recommended to pre-book a spot on one of the shared shuttle services (like Transvip or Transfer Pampa), which will be waiting at the airport and will drop you directly at your hotel in San Pedro.

For the afternoon excursion to the Moon Valley, the most common and practical option is to join a small-group tour. Numerous tour agencies in San Pedro offer this trip, which includes transportation in a minibus and a guide. The tours are timed to end with the sunset. This is the easiest and most informative way to visit the valley, as a guide can explain the fascinating geology. There is no public transport to the valley.

Your day starts before dawn with a very early departure for the El Tatio Geyser field, located high in the Andes at an altitude of over 4,300 meters (14,170 feet). The journey takes about 1.5-2 hours. You will arrive just as the sun rises, which is the best time to see the geysers at their most active. The contrast between the freezing morning air and the boiling water from the ground creates massive, spectacular columns of steam. You will walk around the geothermal field, watching the dozens of geysers and fumaroles erupt against the backdrop of the rising sun and the surrounding volcanic peaks. Most tours serve a simple breakfast on-site, a unique experience in the cold morning air.

On the journey back down from the geysers, you will have the opportunity to spot some of the unique wildlife of the Altiplano, such as vicuñas (a wild relative of the llama), vizcachas (a type of chinchilla), and various high-altitude birds. In the afternoon, after some time to rest in San Pedro, you will indulge in some well-deserved relaxation with a visit to the Puritama Hot Springs. These beautiful, natural thermal pools are located in a stunning canyon. You can soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters, moving between the different pools connected by wooden walkways, offering a perfectly soothing and therapeutic end to an adventurous day.

Young Travelers: The early start for the geysers is tough but the spectacle is worth it. After relaxing at the hot springs, the evening is a perfect opportunity for a stargazing tour. The Atacama Desert has some of the clearest skies in the world, and a tour with a professional astronomer and powerful telescopes is an absolutely mind-blowing experience.

Seniors: The trip to El Tatio involves a significant increase in altitude and exposure to extreme cold in the morning. This tour is very strenuous and may not be suitable for those with heart or respiratory conditions. Please consult your doctor before booking. A relaxing afternoon at the Puritama Hot Springs, which are at a lower altitude, is a much more gentle and enjoyable activity.

Family: The geysers are a fantastic natural science lesson for older children, but the extreme cold and very early start can be very tough for younger kids. The hot springs in the afternoon are a great family activity, as the pools are relatively shallow and warm, and the setting is beautiful and relaxing for everyone.

With Disability: The El Tatio Geyser field has very uneven terrain and is not wheelchair accessible. The extreme cold and high altitude also pose significant risks. This tour is not recommended. The Puritama Hot Springs have made efforts to be accessible, with ramps and walkways leading to some of the pools, making it a more feasible and enjoyable option.

Luxury Travel: Your all-inclusive lodge will provide a high-quality, private or small-group tour to the geysers with a gourmet breakfast served on-site, complete with hot coffee and pastries. In the afternoon, they can arrange a private visit to the hot springs, ensuring a more exclusive and tranquil experience. The lodge’s spa facilities offer another perfect way to relax after the early start.

Adventure: Some tour operators offer a more adventurous version of the El Tatio trip, which includes an opportunity to swim in one of the thermal pools at the geyser site itself. In the afternoon, instead of the main hot springs, you could hike through the Guatin Canyon, known as the “Cactus Canyon,” following the river and enjoying the unique flora of the region.

Nature: The journey to and from the geysers is a prime opportunity for wildlife spotting. An expert nature guide can help you identify vicuñas, culpeo foxes, and various bird species like the giant coot and Andean goose in the small high-altitude wetlands (“bofedales”). The focus is as much on the unique ecosystem as it is on the geothermal activity.

After a very early start and a full day, returning to a comfortable hotel in San Pedro is essential. A hotel with a good pool, like the Noi Casa Atacama, is perfect for a siesta and some relaxation in the afternoon sun before you head to the hot springs. The quiet and welcoming atmosphere of a place like Hostal Kirckir provides a peaceful retreat after the day’s adventures. For those at a luxury lodge like Tierra Atacama, their all-inclusive model means all these excursions are seamlessly organized for you.

Keeping the same hotel base in San Pedro is the only practical way to explore the Atacama. All tours depart from and return to the town. Having a comfortable and familiar base to come back to between the freezing morning expedition and the relaxing afternoon excursion is key to managing your energy levels and enjoying this incredible but demanding environment.

The El Tatio Geysers tour requires a departure from San Pedro around 4:00-4:30 AM. It will be extremely cold when you arrive, with temperatures often well below freezing (-10°C / 14°F is not uncommon). You must dress in multiple warm layers. The altitude is very high (over 4,300m), so this tour should not be done on your first day in San Pedro. Give your body at least one full day to acclimatize first. Walk slowly at the geyser field and stay on the marked paths, as the ground can be unstable and the boiling water is dangerous.

For the Puritama Hot Springs, it’s best to book your ticket online in advance, as they have a limited number of visitors allowed at any one time. The site has changing rooms and lockers. Bring a towel and a swimsuit. The walk from the entrance down to the pools involves some stairs, but there is an accessible path as well. The contrast of the warm water and the dry desert air is a unique and wonderfully relaxing experience.

Dressing for El Tatio is all about layering for extreme cold. You will need thermal underwear (top and bottom), a fleece or wool mid-layer, and a warm, windproof outer jacket. A warm hat, gloves, and a scarf are not optional; they are essential. Warm socks and sturdy, closed-toe shoes are also necessary. As the sun rises and you descend back to San Pedro, it will warm up significantly, so you need to be able to shed these layers.

For the afternoon visit to the Puritama Hot Springs, you will need your swimsuit, a towel, and a pair of sandals or flip-flops. You can wear light, casual clothing like shorts and a t-shirt for the trip there and back. A small bag to carry your wet gear afterwards is also a good idea. Today is a day where you will need to pack for two completely different climates in your daypack.

Breakfast is a simple affair included in your El Tatio tour, usually consisting of coffee, tea, bread, and scrambled eggs, enjoyed in the cold morning air as you watch the geysers. After returning to San Pedro, you will have time for a proper lunch. The main street of Caracoles has many cafes and restaurants serving Chilean and international food. La Pica del Indio is a popular spot for a hearty and affordable set lunch.

After a full day of activities, you might want a relaxed dinner. Las Delicias de Carmen is a great choice for delicious, authentic, and generously portioned Chilean home-style cooking in a rustic setting. For something lighter, many cafes offer great sandwiches and salads. Remember to keep drinking lots of water throughout the day to stay hydrated in the dry climate and to help with the altitude.

The only way to visit the El Tatio Geysers is by joining an organized tour. All tour agencies in San Pedro offer this excursion. The tour includes round-trip transportation in a minibus, a guide, and breakfast. The pre-dawn departure time and the remote, high-altitude location make independent travel impractical and unsafe. Booking a tour is essential.

To get to the Puritama Hot Springs, you can also join a tour, which simply provides transportation there and back. Alternatively, if you want more flexibility, you can take a taxi. Taxis will agree on a fixed price for the round trip, which includes waiting for you for a couple of hours while you enjoy the springs. This can be a good option for a small group. There is no public transport to the hot springs.

Embark on a full-day tour to explore the stunning Altiplanic Lagoons (Lagunas Altiplánicas) and the vast Salar de Atacama. Your journey will take you south from San Pedro, ascending into the Andes mountains to an altitude of over 4,200 meters (13,800 feet). The main attraction is the pair of beautiful lagoons, Miscanti and Miñiques, located at the base of two majestic volcanoes. The deep blue color of the water, the white salt-encrusted shores, and the backdrop of the rust-colored mountains create a landscape of breathtaking and surreal beauty. You will have time to walk along the designated paths and take in the incredible, high-altitude scenery.

On the same tour, you will visit the Salar de Atacama, the largest salt flat in Chile. This vast, white, and rugged expanse of salt crystals is a unique and otherworldly sight. Your main stop on the salt flat will be the Laguna Chaxa, a national reserve and a prime habitat for several species of flamingos. You can walk along the paths and observe these elegant pink birds as they feed in the shallow, salty lagoons, with the vast expanse of the salt flat stretching to the Andes in the distance. The tour often includes a stop at the small, traditional village of Socaire, known for its ancient agricultural terraces, and the Tropic of Capricorn on the return journey to San Pedro.

Young Travelers: Choose a tour that incorporates some short, scenic hikes to fully appreciate the landscape. The combination of incredible scenery, unique wildlife (flamingos!), and the vastness of the salt flat makes for an epic day of exploration and photography. It’s a classic Atacama adventure.

Seniors: A comfortable, small-group tour with a good vehicle is the best option. The altitude is high, so it’s important to have acclimatized for a couple of days beforehand. The walking at the lagoons and the salt flat is minimal and on relatively flat paths, allowing you to enjoy the spectacular scenery without strenuous activity.

Family: The vibrant colors of the lagoons and the sight of the bright pink flamingos are very exciting for children. The vast open spaces of the salt flat are also a unique environment for them to experience. It is a long day, so be sure to bring snacks and entertainment for the drive.

With Disability: The high altitude of the lagoons can be a serious concern and should be discussed with a doctor. The paths at both the lagoons and Laguna Chaxa are on gravel and salt, which can be challenging for wheelchairs. A tour operator may be able to tailor a private trip to accessible viewpoints, but this requires careful planning.

Luxury Travel: Your all-inclusive lodge will provide an exceptional full-day tour to the Altiplanic Lagoons. A knowledgeable guide and a comfortable 4×4 vehicle will ensure a premium experience. The tour will include a gourmet picnic lunch served in a spectacular, secluded location, allowing you to enjoy the incredible scenery in comfort and privacy.

Adventure: For a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, look for a tour that goes beyond the standard lagoons to more remote sites like the Salar de Tara. This tour involves more off-road driving and takes you to incredible, weathered rock formations and stunning landscapes that see far fewer visitors, offering a true sense of remote desert exploration.

Nature: This tour is a nature and wildlife lover’s dream. A tour with a guide who specializes in bird-watching and geology will greatly enhance the experience. They can help you spot and identify the different species of flamingos (Andean, Chilean, and James’s) and explain the fascinating geological processes that formed these unique high-altitude wetlands and salt flats.

For your final night in the desert, returning to your comfortable base in San Pedro is essential. After a long day of high-altitude exploration, the serene environment of a hotel like Noi Casa Atacama provides the perfect place to relax and process the incredible sights you’ve witnessed. For those at a budget-friendly option like Hostal Kirckir, it’s a comfortable place to rest before your long journey to Patagonia the next day.

The all-inclusive luxury lodges like Tierra Atacama will have this full-day excursion as one of their signature offerings. For all travelers, San Pedro remains the logistical hub for all Atacama adventures. Having your accommodation sorted for the entire duration of your stay here allows you to focus solely on enjoying the daily excursions into this spectacular and unique desert landscape.

This is a full-day tour that reaches high altitudes. It is very important that you are well-acclimatized before undertaking this trip. Do not schedule this for your first or even second day in San Pedro. The same acclimatization rules apply: drink lots of water, avoid alcohol the night before, and move slowly at the highest points. The sun is incredibly intense at this altitude, so sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are absolutely critical.

The tour involves a lot of driving, so be prepared for a long day in a vehicle. The roads are mostly paved but can be bumpy in sections. Most tours include lunch, either as a picnic or at a restaurant in the village of Socaire. The weather can be very windy and cool at the lagoons, even on a sunny day, so be sure to bring warm layers, including a fleece and a windproof jacket, to stay comfortable while you are out of the vehicle.

Dressing in layers is the key to comfort on this full-day trip. You will experience a wide range of temperatures. Start with a t-shirt, add a warm fleece or sweater, and have a windproof jacket as your outer layer. You will need all of these at the cold and windy Altiplanic Lagoons. As you descend to the warmer Salar de Atacama in the afternoon, you can shed the outer layers. Comfortable long trousers, such as hiking pants, are the best choice for the day.

Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes are essential. You will be walking on gravel paths and uneven salt surfaces. A sun hat with a wide brim, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are non-negotiable due to the extreme UV radiation at high altitudes. A small backpack is useful for carrying your layers, a large bottle of water, your camera, and snacks.

Lunch is almost always included in the full-day Altiplanic Lagoons tour. Depending on the tour operator, this will either be a packed lunch that you eat at a scenic viewpoint near the lagoons, or a sit-down meal at a simple, traditional restaurant in the small village of Socaire on the way back down. Both options provide a welcome break and a chance to refuel in the middle of a long day of sightseeing.

For your final dinner in San Pedro de Atacama, you could celebrate your desert adventure with a special meal. La Casona is a popular restaurant known for its traditional Chilean and Altiplanic cuisine and its cozy, rustic atmosphere. It’s a great place to try regional specialties like llama or lamb. After dinner, consider one last look at the incredible night sky. The stars in the Atacama are so bright that you can see the Milky Way clearly with the naked eye, even from the edge of town.

The Altiplanic Lagoons and the Salar de Atacama are remote sites that are not accessible by public transport. The only practical way to visit them is by joining an organized full-day tour from San Pedro de Atacama. All the tour agencies in town offer a version of this popular excursion. Booking a tour with a reputable company that uses comfortable vehicles and knowledgeable guides is highly recommended.

The tour includes all transportation for the day in a minibus or 4×4 vehicle, a guide, and usually lunch. The tour follows a well-established route, typically visiting the lagoons in the morning when the wind is calmer and the reflections are better, and the salt flat in the afternoon. This all-inclusive approach is the most efficient and informative way to experience these spectacular but remote high-altitude wonders.

This is a major travel day, as you journey from the Atacama Desert in the far north to the heart of Patagonia in the deep south. Your day will begin with a transfer from San Pedro de Atacama back to Calama Airport (CJC). From there, you will take a flight to Punta Arenas (PUQ), the main airport in southern Patagonia. This flight will almost certainly involve a connection in Santiago (SCL) and will take up the majority of your day. It’s a remarkable journey that showcases the immense length of Chile.

Upon arrival at Punta Arenas airport, you will be met for your transfer to the town of Puerto Natales, the primary gateway to the Torres del Paine National Park. The scenic drive from Punta Arenas to Puerto Natales takes about three hours, taking you through the vast, windswept landscapes of the Patagonian steppe. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like rheas (a large flightless bird) and guanacos (a wild relative of the llama). After a long day of travel, you will check into your hotel in Puerto Natales, a charming town located on the shores of the Última Esperanza (Last Hope) Sound. Enjoy a hearty Patagonian dinner and rest up for the incredible scenery that awaits you tomorrow.

Young Travelers: To save money, take the public bus from Punta Arenas airport to Puerto Natales. It’s comfortable, efficient, and much cheaper than a private transfer. Once in Puerto Natales, explore the town’s growing number of craft beer bars and gear rental shops in preparation for your park adventures.

Seniors: A pre-booked private transfer from Punta Arenas airport directly to your hotel in Puerto Natales is the most comfortable and stress-free option after a long day of flying. Choose a comfortable hotel in town with good amenities to ensure a restful night before your first excursion into the park.

Family: A private transfer is also the best option for families, avoiding the hassle of bus schedules and luggage. The drive to Puerto Natales is a great opportunity for wildlife spotting, which can be exciting for children. A relaxed dinner at a family-friendly restaurant is a perfect end to the travel day.

With Disability: This is a challenging travel day. It is essential to book assistance with the airlines in advance. A pre-booked accessible vehicle for the 3-hour transfer from Punta Arenas to Puerto Natales is crucial. Many of the newer hotels in Puerto Natales have good accessibility features.

Luxury Travel: Fly in business class for maximum comfort. A private luxury vehicle will be waiting for you at Punta Arenas airport. Instead of staying in town, you could transfer directly to a luxury all-inclusive lodge located inside or just outside Torres del Paine National Park, such as Tierra Patagonia or Explora Patagonia, for a seamless and high-end start to your Patagonian adventure.

Adventure: The journey is the adventure today. Upon arrival in Puerto Natales, spend the evening at an “erratic rock” presentation or a local guide’s talk to get briefed on the trekking options and weather conditions in Torres del Paine, psyching yourself up for the days ahead. Check your gear and make any last-minute purchases.

Nature: The drive from Punta Arenas to Puerto Natales is your main nature activity for the day. A private transfer allows you to ask the driver to stop for photos if you spot interesting wildlife, like a herd of guanacos or a condor soaring overhead. The vast, empty landscape of the steppe is a unique and beautiful ecosystem in its own right.

For a luxurious stay with stunning views of the Last Hope Sound, The Singular Patagonia is a magnificent hotel set in a converted historic cold storage plant just outside Puerto Natales. A fantastic mid-range option is the Weskar Lodge Hotel, a cozy and beautifully designed lodge with wood interiors and great fjord views. For an excellent and highly-rated budget option, the Hostal Amerindia offers a warm, friendly, and colorful atmosphere with comfortable private rooms, perfect for a restful night.

The Singular offers a unique blend of industrial history and five-star luxury, along with its own museum and gourmet restaurant. Weskar Lodge provides a classic, comfortable, and scenic Patagonian lodge experience at a more accessible price point. Hostal Amerindia is a welcoming and characterful base, perfect for travelers looking for good value, a friendly atmosphere, and local advice before heading into the national park.

This is a long and tiring travel day, so be prepared. Book your flights from Calama to Punta Arenas well in advance, as there are limited options and prices can be high. Pack snacks and a reusable water bottle, as the journey is long. It’s also a good idea to pack a book or download some entertainment for the flights and the long drive. Upon arrival in Puerto Natales, the weather will be dramatically different from the Atacama. Be ready with a warm jacket, hat, and gloves, which you should pack in your carry-on for easy access.

Puerto Natales is the last major town before entering Torres del Paine. Use this evening to prepare for your park excursions. Withdraw enough cash (Chilean Pesos), as there are no ATMs inside the park. Check your gear, and if you are missing anything, there are many outdoor equipment stores in town where you can rent or buy warm and waterproof clothing. It’s also a good idea to visit a supermarket to buy snacks for your park tours.

Your attire for today is all about comfortable travel. Wear loose-fitting trousers, a comfortable top, and a sweater or hoodie for the plane. It is essential to have your warm Patagonian clothing easily accessible in your carry-on luggage. When you land in Punta Arenas, you will be greeted by the infamous Patagonian wind and much colder temperatures. You will want to have a warm fleece, a waterproof and windproof jacket, a hat, and gloves ready to put on as soon as you deplane.

Comfortable shoes are a must for a long day of travel. Once you arrive in Puerto Natales, the style is very casual and practical, focused on outdoor and adventure gear. There is no need for any formal clothing. Your travel clothes will be perfectly suitable for a relaxed dinner in this laid-back frontier town.

Lunch will likely be a quick snack at an airport during your layover in Santiago. For dinner in Puerto Natales, you will find many excellent restaurants specializing in Patagonian cuisine. The star dish of the region is “cordero al palo” (spit-roasted lamb), which is slow-cooked over a fire for hours until it is incredibly tender and flavorful. Restaurants like Aldea or Asador Patagónico are famous for this dish.

For something different, Santolla is a popular restaurant set in a shipping container, known for its delicious king crab (“centolla”) dishes. For a more casual meal, Base Camp is a popular pizzeria and pub with a lively atmosphere, often filled with trekkers preparing for or returning from their adventures in the park. It’s also a great place to sample some of the local Patagonian craft beers.

The day’s journey begins with a transfer from your San Pedro hotel to Calama Airport (CJC). From there, you will fly to Punta Arenas Airport (PUQ). This will not be a direct flight; it will require a connection, most commonly at Santiago Airport (SCL). The total flying and layover time will likely take between 6 and 9 hours.

Upon arrival at Punta Arenas airport, the final leg of the journey is the 3-hour transfer to Puerto Natales. The most convenient option is a pre-booked private transfer, which will meet you at the airport. A more budget-friendly option is to take one of the regular public buses (operated by companies like Bus-Sur or Buses Fernández) that run directly from the airport to the bus terminal in Puerto Natales. From the bus terminal, it’s a short taxi ride to most hotels.

Embark on a full-day tour from Puerto Natales into the heart of Torres del Paine National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and one of the most beautiful places on the planet. The focus of your first day is the western side of the park and its incredible glacial scenery. The scenic drive into the park offers numerous stops at viewpoints (“miradors”) for photos of the dramatic landscapes, with chances to spot wildlife like guanacos and condors. Your main destination is the area around Grey Lake, a stunning glacial lake filled with icebergs that have broken off from the massive Grey Glacier.

The highlight of the day is a boat navigation on Grey Lake. You will board a catamaran for a three-hour journey that takes you across the windswept lake, weaving through beautiful, sculpted icebergs of all shapes and sizes. The boat will get you very close to the three faces of the vast Grey Glacier, which is part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. You will be able to witness the incredible scale of the glacier and its deep blue crevasses, and you might even see or hear large pieces of ice calving into the water. The tour typically includes a Pisco Sour chilled with ancient glacial ice, a perfect toast to a truly unforgettable Patagonian experience.

Young Travelers: For a more active day, after the Grey Lake navigation, you can opt for a short but scenic hike. The trail from the boat’s drop-off point to the Pehoé Lake viewpoint offers some of the most iconic and beautiful views in the entire park. It’s a great way to stretch your legs and get a different perspective of the landscape.

Seniors: An organized bus tour is the most comfortable way to experience the park. The boat navigation on Grey Lake is a fantastic activity for all mobility levels, offering maximum scenic reward with no physical exertion. The main viewpoints are all easily accessible from the roadside, allowing you to see the park’s grandeur in comfort.

Family: The boat trip to the glacier is an exciting adventure for children, who will be amazed by the sight of the floating icebergs and the massive wall of ice. The wildlife spotting on the drive into the park, especially the herds of guanacos, is also a big hit with families.

With Disability: The Grey Lake boat navigation is accessible for wheelchair users, with assistance from the crew for boarding. This makes it one of the best ways for visitors with mobility issues to experience the glacial heart of the park. A private accessible vehicle for the park tour is essential to reach the dock and other accessible viewpoints.

Luxury Travel: If you are staying at an all-inclusive lodge within the park, this excursion will be seamlessly arranged for you with top-quality guides and vehicles. For an even more exclusive experience, you could follow the boat trip with a gourmet lunch at the beautiful Hosteria Lago Grey, which offers stunning views of the lake and glacier from its dining room.

Adventure: For the ultimate glacier adventure, consider an ice hiking excursion on the Grey Glacier itself. This requires a full day and a good level of fitness. After the boat journey, you will disembark, put on crampons and a harness, and, led by expert guides, you will get to walk on the ancient ice, exploring its blue lagoons and dramatic crevasses up close.

Nature: Focus on the unique ecosystem of the area. A guided tour will help you spot the diverse birdlife on the lake and learn about the incredible geology of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, the world’s second-largest contiguous extrapolar ice field. The focus is on understanding the powerful natural forces that have sculpted this magnificent and fragile landscape.

You will return to your Puerto Natales hotel after this long but incredible day trip. The cozy comfort of a lodge like Weskar Lodge Hotel is the perfect place to warm up and enjoy a delicious meal while looking out over the fjord. For those staying at a friendly and warm place like Hostal Amerindia, it’s a great place to share stories of your glacial adventure with other travelers.

Using Puerto Natales as a base for day trips into the park is a common and practical strategy. It offers a wider range of accommodation and dining options than the very expensive and limited choices inside the park. Most tours depart from and return to the town daily, making the logistics simple. After a day of being exposed to the strong Patagonian wind and weather, a comfortable and warm room is a welcome sanctuary.

The weather in Patagonia is notoriously unpredictable and can change in an instant. You can experience all four seasons in a single day. The wind is a constant and powerful force. You must be prepared for strong winds, rain, and cold temperatures, even if the day starts out sunny. Layers are absolutely key to staying comfortable. The boat navigation on Grey Lake can be particularly cold and windy, so a warm hat, gloves, and a good windproof and waterproof jacket are essential.

Book your full-day park tour and the Grey Lake navigation well in advance, especially during the peak season (December to February), as spots are limited and can sell out. The tour is a very long day, typically starting around 7:30 AM and returning to Puerto Natales in the evening. Pack snacks and a full water bottle, as options to buy food are very limited once you are inside the park.

Dressing for a day in Torres del Paine requires preparing for the worst weather. The key is layering. Start with a thermal base layer (top and bottom), add a fleece or wool mid-layer, and have a high-quality waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers as your outer shell. This system allows you to adapt to the rapidly changing conditions, removing layers if the sun comes out and adding them back on when the wind picks up or it starts to rain.

A warm hat, gloves, and a scarf or buff are absolutely essential to protect you from the biting wind, especially on the boat. Waterproof hiking boots with good grip are the best footwear. Sunglasses and sunscreen are also crucial, as the sun can be very strong and reflects off the water and ice. A sturdy backpack, preferably with a rain cover, is needed to carry your extra layers, water, snacks, and camera.

Lunch is often a simple packed lunch that you will eat at a scenic spot within the park. This is usually included if you are on an organized tour. If you are traveling independently, you must bring your own food and drink, as the options inside the park are extremely limited and very expensive. A hearty sandwich, some trail mix, and a flask of hot tea or coffee are all great options to pack.

You will return to Puerto Natales in the evening, likely tired and hungry after the long day. This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a hearty Patagonian meal. Afrigonia is a fantastic and unique restaurant in town, offering a fusion of African and Patagonian flavors with a focus on local ingredients. For a more casual and comforting meal, the Mesita Grande is famous for its delicious and generously sized wood-fired pizzas, a perfect and popular choice for hungry adventurers.

The most practical and common way to do this as a day trip is to join a full-day organized tour from Puerto Natales. These tours handle all the logistics, including transportation to and from the park (which is a 1.5-2 hour drive each way), the park entrance fees, and the booking of the Grey Lake boat navigation. This is the most efficient and hassle-free way to experience this part of the park.

If you are traveling independently with a rental car, you will need to drive to the Hotel Lago Grey area. From there, you will take a short walk through a forest and across a long suspension bridge to the pebble beach where you board the catamaran. You must book the boat navigation tickets on their official website well in advance. There is no public transport that aligns with the boat schedule for a day trip, making a tour or a rental car the only viable options.

On your second full-day tour of Torres del Paine, you will explore the park’s central and eastern areas, focusing on its most famous landmarks and stunning lakes. The tour will take you along a scenic route with stops at various viewpoints to admire the iconic “Cuernos del Paine” (Horns of Paine), the distinctly colored, two-toned granite and sedimentary rock peaks. You will visit the beautiful Pehoé Lake, famous for its incredibly bright turquoise color and the stunning view of the Cuernos across the water. A short walk will take you to the powerful Salto Grande waterfall, where the waters of Nordenskjöld Lake thunder down into Pehoé Lake.

The tour will continue towards the eastern side of the park, providing different perspectives of the massif. You will visit viewpoints that offer spectacular views of the three famous granite towers (the “Torres del Paine”) from which the park gets its name. While the full-day hike to the base of the towers is too strenuous for a day trip, these viewpoints offer fantastic photo opportunities of the iconic peaks. The day is also rich in wildlife-spotting opportunities, with a high chance of seeing large herds of guanacos, soaring Andean condors, and possibly even the elusive puma. It’s a day dedicated to capturing the classic, breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia.

Young Travelers: Opt for a tour that includes a longer, more challenging hike. The hike to the Mirador Cóndor offers a steep but relatively short climb to one of the best panoramic viewpoints in the park, providing 360-degree views of the Paine massif and the surrounding lakes. It’s a fantastic and rewarding physical challenge.

Seniors: A comfortable bus tour is the perfect way to see the highlights of this area. The main viewpoints for the Cuernos and the Torres are accessible with very short, flat walks from the road. The walk to the Salto Grande waterfall is also on a well-maintained and relatively easy trail, making it an accessible and spectacular sight.

Family: The stunning colors of the lakes, the impressive waterfall, and the constant search for wildlife make this a very exciting day for families. The short, easy hikes are manageable for children, and the vast open landscapes provide a great opportunity for them to experience a truly wild and beautiful environment.

With Disability: A private, accessible vehicle is the best way to tour this part of the park. Many of the most stunning viewpoints, such as the one at Pehoé Lake and the main viewpoint for the Cuernos, are accessible directly from the roadside. The path to Salto Grande is not fully wheelchair accessible, but good views can be had from the start of the trail.

Luxury Travel: Your private guide from a luxury lodge will tailor the day to your interests and the best light for photography. They will know the best, crowd-free spots for wildlife viewing and will provide a gourmet picnic lunch to be enjoyed in a stunning, secluded location with a direct view of the Paine Horns.

Adventure: For a true adventure, dedicate the day to one of the park’s classic, challenging day hikes. The French Valley trail (a section of the W-Trek) offers a strenuous but incredible journey into the heart of the massif, with hanging glaciers and avalanche-prone slopes providing a soundtrack of cracking ice. This is a very long and demanding day, requiring an early start and a good fitness level.

Nature: A wildlife-focused tour or “photo safari” is the perfect way to experience the park’s nature. A specialized guide will take you to the best areas to spot and photograph the park’s unique fauna, including guanacos, foxes, condors, and potentially even the elusive puma, which is often spotted in the eastern sector of the park.

You will once again return to your base in Puerto Natales after a full day in the park. The warm and welcoming atmosphere of a hotel like Weskar Lodge Hotel provides the perfect comfort after a day of battling the Patagonian winds. The opportunity to share your photos and stories with other travelers at a social hub like Hostal Amerindia is a great way to end the evening.

Using Puerto Natales as your base for a second day of park exploration is a very efficient strategy. It allows you to see a completely different area of the vast park without the extreme cost and logistical challenges of staying inside. The daily return to the town’s comforts and its varied dining scene is a welcome feature after a day spent in the wild and unpredictable beauty of Torres del Paine.

Today’s tour will focus on the classic “postcard” views of Torres del Paine. The weather is the single most important factor that will determine your experience. Be prepared for the fact that the peaks can be shrouded in cloud. The Patagonian weather is famously fickle, and clear views are a matter of luck. However, the landscape is dramatic and beautiful even in cloudy or moody weather, which can add to the atmosphere.

Bring binoculars if you have them. They will be very useful for spotting wildlife, such as condors soaring high above the peaks or distant herds of guanacos. When photographing the landscape, a polarizing filter can be very effective for enhancing the incredible blue and turquoise colors of the glacial lakes. Remember that you are in a wild national park; do not feed the animals and always maintain a respectful distance.

The same layering principles as yesterday apply today. You must be prepared for sun, wind, rain, and cold, all in the same day. A thermal base layer, a fleece mid-layer, and a waterproof/windproof outer shell are essential. Waterproof trousers are also highly recommended. The wind can be relentless, and being windproof is just as important as being waterproof to stay warm.

A warm hat, gloves, and a buff or scarf are non-negotiable items to protect you from the elements. Waterproof hiking boots are the best footwear. Even if you are only doing short walks, the ground can be uneven and muddy. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also crucial, as the sun can be very strong, especially when it reflects off the water of the lakes.

As with the previous day, a packed lunch is the standard for a full-day tour in Torres del Paine. This will either be provided by your tour company or you will need to bring your own. There are a couple of very expensive cafes and hotels in the park, but it is much more practical and time-efficient to have your own food. A flask of a hot drink is a very welcome comfort on a cold and windy day.

For dinner back in Puerto Natales, you can explore more of the town’s excellent restaurant scene. Lenga is a fantastic restaurant that offers creative, modern Patagonian cuisine with a focus on local and sustainable ingredients in a stylish setting. For a more casual option, El Living is a cozy and quirky cafe-restaurant known for its delicious vegetarian dishes, great coffee, and comfortable, living-room-like atmosphere.

An organized full-day tour from Puerto Natales is the most practical way to see the highlights of the park’s central and eastern sectors in a single day. These tours use a minibus or coach and follow a route that is optimized for seeing the main viewpoints and attractions, such as Pehoé Lake, Salto Grande, and the viewpoints for the Torres.

If you have a rental car, you can explore these areas independently. The main park roads are mostly gravel but are generally well-maintained and suitable for a regular car (a 4×4 is not essential but can be more comfortable). Having your own vehicle gives you the flexibility to spend as much time as you like at each viewpoint and to go for longer or shorter walks as you please. You must purchase your park entrance ticket online in advance.

Embark on a different kind of Patagonian adventure with a full-day boat navigation through the fjords to see the Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers. You will depart in the morning from the pier in Puerto Natales for a scenic four-hour boat trip up the Última Esperanza (Last Hope) Sound. Along the way, you will cruise through a stunning landscape of steep, forested mountains, waterfalls, and you will have the chance to see a colony of cormorants and a sea lion rookery. The first major sight is the Balmaceda Glacier, which you will see from the boat as it cascades down the side of Mount Balmaceda.

The boat will then dock at the far end of the fjord, inside the Bernardo O’Higgins National Park. From here, you will disembark for a short and beautiful 20-minute walk through a native coigüe forest to a viewpoint at the edge of a lagoon. Here you will get a spectacular, up-close view of the Serrano Glacier. The lagoon is often filled with small icebergs that have calved from the glacier. After spending time at the viewpoint, most tours proceed to a nearby estancia (ranch) for a traditional and hearty Patagonian barbecue lunch, featuring the famous spit-roasted lamb, before making the return journey by boat to Puerto Natales in the late afternoon.

Young Travelers: For a more adventurous return journey, some tours offer the option to return from the Serrano Glacier via zodiac boat up the Serrano River, connecting into Torres del Paine National Park. This is a thrilling ride that offers incredible views and a different perspective of the landscape. (Note: This option usually requires an overnight stay in the park).

Seniors: The boat navigation is a very comfortable and relaxing way to see the glaciers. The walk to the Serrano Glacier viewpoint is on a well-maintained and relatively flat path, making it manageable for most fitness levels. The entire day is a low-impact, high-reward scenic excursion.

Family: The boat trip is an exciting adventure for children, with the chance to see sea lions and a spectacular waterfall. The walk through the forest to the glacier is a great way for kids to experience the unique Patagonian flora, and the barbecue lunch at the estancia is a fun and delicious cultural experience.

With Disability: The main boat is generally accessible, but boarding procedures and onboard restroom accessibility should be confirmed with the tour operator in advance. The walk to the Serrano Glacier viewpoint is on a gravel path and may not be suitable for all wheelchair users. The best experience would be the scenic boat navigation itself.

Luxury Travel: Charter a private boat for a more intimate and exclusive tour of the fjords. This would allow you to spend as much time as you like at the glaciers and wildlife viewing spots, and to enjoy a gourmet lunch served on board, away from the group tours. This offers ultimate flexibility and comfort.

Adventure: For a multi-day adventure, this boat trip is the first leg of a journey that connects Puerto Natales to Torres del Paine via the waterway. After seeing the glacier, you can take a zodiac boat up the Serrano River, stay overnight at a remote lodge, and then enter the national park from the south, offering a unique and adventurous alternative to the standard road entrance.

Nature: This tour is a fantastic opportunity for nature lovers. The temperate rainforest you walk through to the Serrano Glacier is a beautiful and unique ecosystem. A guide can point out the different species of native trees, like the coigüe and the canelo, and the diverse birdlife, including austral parakeets and Magellanic woodpeckers, that inhabit the forest.

For your final night in Patagonia, you will return to your hotel in Puerto Natales. The comfort of a hotel like The Singular Patagonia provides a luxurious end to your Patagonian adventures, with its spa and gourmet dining. The cozy atmosphere of a place like Weskar Lodge Hotel is perfect for enjoying a final glass of Chilean wine while overlooking the fjord, reflecting on the incredible landscapes you have witnessed.

Using Puerto Natales as your base for this final excursion is the most practical choice. All the fjord navigation tours depart from and return to the town’s pier. This allows for a simple and well-organized day, with a comfortable and familiar room to return to in the evening to pack and prepare for your journey back to Santiago the next day.

This is a very popular tour, so it is essential to book your spot on the boat well in advance, especially during the high season. There are several different companies that run the tour, and the quality can vary. It’s a good idea to read reviews and choose a reputable operator. The tour is a full day, usually lasting from about 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The weather in the fjords can be very cold, wet, and windy, even in summer. You must be prepared for inclement weather to enjoy the day.

The boat has both enclosed indoor seating and open-air decks. You will want to spend a lot of time on the decks to see the scenery and wildlife, so dress very warmly. The barbecue lunch at the estancia is a highlight, so come with a good appetite. If you are prone to seasickness, it’s a good idea to take medication before the trip, although the water in the fjords is generally quite calm.

Dress for a cold and potentially wet day on the water. Multiple warm layers are essential. A thermal base layer, a fleece mid-layer, and a waterproof and windproof jacket are a must. Waterproof trousers are also highly recommended. The wind on the boat can be biting, and rain is common in this region. A warm hat that covers your ears, a pair of gloves, and a scarf or buff are non-negotiable items for staying comfortable on the deck.

Wear waterproof hiking boots or other sturdy, waterproof shoes. The walk to the Serrano Glacier is through a forest and the path can be muddy. Sunglasses are also important, as the glare from the water and the ice can be strong, even on a cloudy day. It is much better to be too warm and have to remove a layer than to be cold and miserable for the entire day.

A substantial lunch is included in almost all the Balmaceda and Serrano Glacier tours. This is typically a classic Patagonian barbecue (“asado”) at the Estancia Perales. You will be served a generous meal of spit-roasted lamb, sausages, potatoes, and salads, along with Chilean wine. This hearty and delicious meal is a fantastic cultural experience and a perfect way to warm up after the morning on the water.

For your final dinner in Puerto Natales, you could celebrate your Patagonian adventure with a special meal. The restaurant at The Singular Patagonia hotel is one of the best in the region, offering gourmet cuisine in a stunning, historic setting. For a more casual but equally delicious option, La Ultima Esperanza is a fantastic restaurant known for its creative dishes using local ingredients, especially seafood and lamb, and its cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

The only way to visit the Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers is by boat on an organized full-day tour from Puerto Natales. Several tour companies operate daily sailings during the high season. You will need to book your ticket in advance, either online or through a tour agency in Puerto Natales. The tours all depart from the main pier in the town.

The tour package is all-inclusive, covering the boat navigation, the services of a guide, the national park entrance fees, and lunch at the estancia. The boat journey itself is the mode of transport and the main activity. It’s a very straightforward and well-organized excursion, making it an easy and accessible way to experience the remote beauty of the Patagonian fjords and glaciers.

Enjoy a final Patagonian breakfast in Puerto Natales. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some time for some last-minute souvenir shopping in the town’s many artisan shops, which sell high-quality woolen goods, leather products, and local crafts. You could also take one last stroll along the beautiful waterfront, taking in the final views of the Last Hope Sound and the surrounding mountains. Afterwards, you will take your transfer back to the airport in Punta Arenas for your flight back to Santiago.

The transfer from Puerto Natales to Punta Arenas takes about three hours, and the flight to Santiago takes approximately 3.5 hours. Upon arrival in Santiago in the evening, you will be transferred to your hotel. For your final night in Chile, you will enjoy a special farewell dinner. This is the perfect opportunity to indulge in the sophisticated culinary scene of the city, perhaps in the upscale Vitacura or Lastarria neighborhoods, and to reflect on the incredible journey you have had, from the Atacama Desert in the north to the glaciers of Patagonia in the south.

Young Travelers: Use the morning to visit a local cafe in Puerto Natales and write postcards or journals about your Patagonian adventures. For your farewell dinner in Santiago, explore the lively and trendy Barrio Italia, which has a huge variety of excellent and atmospheric restaurants and bars.

Seniors: Enjoy a leisurely morning in Puerto Natales. A pre-booked private transfer to the airport will ensure a comfortable and stress-free journey. In Santiago, a hotel in a quiet and upscale neighborhood like El Golf is a good choice. A farewell dinner at a renowned and comfortable restaurant will be a perfect end to the trip.

Family: If you have time in the morning, a visit to the Nao Victoria Museum in Punta Arenas (if your transfer allows) can be a fun stop, featuring a full-size replica of one of Magellan’s ships. For your farewell dinner, choose a restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere that the whole family can enjoy.

With Disability: A pre-booked accessible transfer from Puerto Natales to Punta Arenas airport and from Santiago airport to your hotel is essential. Ensure you have requested any necessary assistance from the airline in advance. A final dinner at an accessible restaurant in a modern neighborhood like Las Condes will ensure a comfortable evening.

Luxury Travel: Take a private transfer to the airport and fly business class back to Santiago for maximum comfort. For your final night, stay at a top luxury hotel like the Ritz-Carlton or the Mandarin Oriental. Your farewell dinner will be a reservation at one of Santiago’s top fine dining establishments, such as Ambrosía or 040, for a memorable gastronomic conclusion to your trip.

Adventure: If you have an early flight, wake up for a sunrise walk along the Puerto Natales waterfront for one last, magical view of the Patagonian landscape. For your final dinner in Santiago, go on a “pisco crawl” in the Bellavista or Lastarria neighborhoods, sampling different types of pisco at various specialized bars.

Nature: Before leaving Puerto Natales, take a short taxi ride to the Mylodon Cave Natural Monument just outside of town. This large cave is where the remains of a giant prehistoric ground sloth were discovered. It’s a fascinating and quick natural history excursion to fit in before your journey north.

For your final night in Santiago, a hotel in a neighborhood you’ve enjoyed or one that is convenient for your departure is a good choice. The luxurious The Singular Santiago in Lastarria is perfect for a final night of indulgence and is surrounded by fantastic restaurants for your farewell dinner. The comfortable Meridiano Sur, Petit Hotel in Providencia offers a familiar and welcoming base to return to. For a budget-friendly option, the RQR Hostel is a great place to spend your final night, with a social atmosphere to share travel stories.

Choosing a hotel in a lively area with great dining options, like Lastarria or Providencia, is a great way to make your final evening special and convenient. After a long day of travel from the far south, being able to simply walk from your hotel to a fantastic restaurant is a welcome comfort, allowing you to maximize your enjoyment of your last night in Chile.

This is another long travel day, so be prepared. Book your flight from Punta Arenas to Santiago well in advance, as it is a popular route. Be aware of luggage allowances, as domestic flights in Chile can have stricter limits than international flights, especially with low-cost carriers. It’s a good idea to weigh your bags before heading to the airport. The transfer from Puerto Natales to Punta Arenas airport needs to be timed carefully to align with your flight departure, allowing for the 3-hour drive and airport check-in time.

Upon arrival back in Santiago, the official transfer services are again the best option to get from the airport to your hotel. For your farewell dinner, it is highly recommended to make a reservation, especially if you want to dine at one of the city’s top restaurants on a weekend evening. This will ensure you have a table and can enjoy a stress-free and memorable final meal.

Your attire today will be dictated by a dramatic change in climate. In the morning in Patagonia, you will need your warm layers: a fleece, a warm jacket, a hat, and gloves. For the long day of travel on buses and planes, comfortable clothing is key. A pair of comfortable trousers and a long-sleeved shirt or sweater is a good choice. You will be arriving in the much milder climate of Santiago in the evening.

For your farewell dinner in Santiago, you can dress smart-casual. After days of practical outdoor gear, it can be nice to dress up a little for your final night. A smart shirt and trousers for men, or a nice top and skirt/trousers or a dress for women, would be perfectly appropriate for a nice restaurant in the city. The key is to have your warm Patagonian gear for the morning and your smarter city clothes packed accessibly for your arrival.

Lunch will be a simple affair during your travel day, most likely a sandwich or a snack at the Punta Arenas or Santiago airport. It’s a good idea to buy something in Puerto Natales before you leave to have more options. For your farewell dinner in Santiago, this is your chance to splurge on a memorable culinary experience. The Lastarria and Vitacura neighborhoods are hubs for fine dining.

Bocanáriz in Lastarria is an excellent choice for its incredible selection of Chilean wines and creative food pairings. For a truly high-end experience, Ambrosía, located in Vitacura, is one of the top-rated restaurants in Latin America, offering sophisticated and delicious seasonal cuisine. A reservation made well in advance is essential for these top-tier restaurants. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the end of an amazing journey through Chile.

The day begins with a transfer from Puerto Natales to Punta Arenas Airport (PUQ). This can be done via a pre-booked private transfer or by taking one of the regular public buses from the Puerto Natales bus terminal. The bus is a comfortable and efficient option, taking about 3 hours. From Punta Arenas, you will take a domestic flight to Santiago (SCL). The flight takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Upon arrival at Santiago airport, you will take a transfer to your hotel. The official shared shuttles (Transvip) or a private taxi are the most convenient options. After checking in and refreshing, you can use the Santiago Metro or a taxi/Uber to get to your chosen restaurant for your farewell dinner. The city’s efficient transport system makes it easy to navigate for your final evening.

Spend your last full day in Chile indulging in the country’s world-renowned wine. Take a relaxing day trip to the Maipo Valley, one of Chile’s most historic and famous wine regions, conveniently located just on the outskirts of Santiago. This valley is often called the “Bordeaux of South America” and is particularly famous for its exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon. A half-day or full-day tour will take you to one or more of the beautiful wineries (“viñas”) that dot the valley floor against the stunning backdrop of the Andes.

You will visit a historic winery such as Concha y Toro, one of the largest and most famous producers, where you can tour the beautiful park-like grounds, explore the ancient cellars (including the legendary “Casillero del Diablo”), and enjoy a guided tasting of their classic wines. For a more boutique experience, you could visit a smaller, family-run winery like Viña Santa Rita or Viña Undurraga. Many tours include a delicious lunch at the winery’s restaurant, offering gourmet food perfectly paired with their wines. It’s a sophisticated and scenic way to spend your final day, celebrating the rich flavors of Chile.

Young Travelers: For a more independent and budget-friendly wine tour, take the metro and a local bus to the town of Pirque to visit Concha y Toro. Alternatively, some tour companies offer bicycle wine tours, allowing you to cycle between several smaller wineries for a fun and active day of tasting.

Seniors: An organized half-day tour with hotel pick-up is the most comfortable and convenient option. These tours provide comfortable transport and a well-paced visit to a major winery like Santa Rita, which also has a beautiful historical park and an interesting Andean museum, offering more to see than just the winery itself.

Family: While wine tasting is for the adults, many wineries have beautiful, large gardens and grounds where children can run around and explore. Concha y Toro and Santa Rita are particularly family-friendly, with their park-like settings. The story of the “Devil’s Cellar” at Concha y Toro can also be a fun and spooky tale for older kids.

With Disability: Major wineries like Concha y Toro and Santa Rita have made significant efforts to be accessible, with ramps, accessible tasting rooms, and paved pathways through the main areas of the grounds. It is essential to book a tour with an accessible vehicle to get there comfortably.

Luxury Travel: Arrange a private, full-day wine tour with a sommelier guide. You can visit exclusive, high-end boutique wineries that are not open to large groups, enjoy a private tasting with the winemaker, and indulge in a multi-course gourmet lunch at a top winery restaurant, offering a truly bespoke and in-depth oenological experience.

Adventure: For a unique wine country adventure, combine your winery visit with a horseback ride through the vineyards. Several operators in the Maipo Valley offer guided rides that take you through the beautiful landscape with the Andes in the background, culminating in a well-deserved wine tasting.

Nature: Focus on the natural setting of the Maipo Valley. A visit to a winery like Viña Haras de Pirque, which combines winemaking with horse breeding, offers a stunning setting and beautiful architecture. The drive through the valley itself is a scenic experience, showcasing the fertile agricultural heart of Chile’s Central Valley.

You will be staying at your Santiago hotel for this final night. The convenience of your established base, whether it’s the luxury of The Singular Santiago or the friendly atmosphere of RQR Hostel, makes this final day trip very easy. Most wine tours offer hotel pick-up, and for independent travel, the Maipo Valley is easily accessible from the city.

Returning to your hotel in the late afternoon allows you time to relax and pack for your departure the next day. You can enjoy a final, relaxed evening, perhaps at a favorite local restaurant you discovered earlier in your trip, or simply organize your souvenirs and newly purchased bottles of wine, ready for the journey home.

It is highly recommended to book your winery tours in advance, especially for the more popular ones like Concha y Toro or for tours in English, as they can fill up. A guided tour from Santiago is often the most practical option, as it solves the problem of transportation and drinking and driving. There are many different tour operators offering a variety of half-day and full-day options to suit different budgets and interests.

If you choose to go independently, the Maipo Valley is one of the easiest wine regions to access from Santiago. You can take the metro to the edge of the city and then a local bus or a taxi to the wineries in the Pirque area. However, getting between different wineries without a car can be difficult, so it’s often best to choose one or two to visit. Remember to drink plenty of water along with your wine, as the summer sun can be strong.

For a day trip to the Maipo Valley, smart-casual attire is a perfect choice. The atmosphere at the wineries is generally relaxed but sophisticated. A pair of smart trousers, chinos, or a nice sundress would be very appropriate. While you won’t be doing strenuous walking, you will be on your feet for the tours, so comfortable shoes like loafers, stylish sneakers, or flat sandals are a good idea.

The Maipo Valley can be very hot and sunny in the summer, so a sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential. A light sweater or cardigan might be useful for the cool, air-conditioned cellars or if the weather changes. A stylish yet comfortable outfit will ensure you feel at ease both during the educational tour and the elegant wine tasting.

The best place to have lunch on a wine tour is at one of the wineries themselves. Many of the larger wineries in the Maipo Valley have excellent on-site restaurants that offer beautiful views of the vineyards and the Andes. The restaurant at Viña Santa Rita, for example, is highly regarded. These restaurants specialize in creating dishes that pair perfectly with their wines, offering a complete and memorable gastronomic experience.

If your tour does not include lunch, or if you are traveling independently, the nearby town of Pirque has several good, traditional Chilean restaurants. For your final dinner in Santiago, you could have a light meal after your day of indulgence, perhaps revisiting a favorite spot in the Lastarria or Bellavista neighborhoods for a final taste of the city’s vibrant culinary scene.

The most convenient and popular way to visit the Maipo Valley is on an organized half-day or full-day tour from Santiago. These tours include transportation from your hotel, the services of a guide, and the winery tour and tasting fees. This is the most relaxing and safest option, as it allows you to enjoy the wine tasting without worrying about driving.

To go independently to the wineries in the Pirque area (like Concha y Toro), you can take the Metro Line 4 to Las Mercedes station. From there, you can take a local bus or a taxi for the final 15-20 minute journey to the winery. This is a very budget-friendly option but requires a bit more planning. For visiting multiple or more remote wineries, hiring a private driver for the day is the best independent option.

Enjoy a final Chilean breakfast at your hotel or a local cafe. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some time for some last-minute souvenir shopping. The artisan village at the Centro Artesanal Santa Lucía (near Cerro Santa Lucía) is a great place to find high-quality Chilean crafts, including lapis lazuli jewelry (Chile’s national stone), copper goods, and alpaca wool textiles. It’s a more relaxed and authentic shopping experience than many other souvenir shops.

Alternatively, if you have a few hours, you could visit the Costanera Center for a final, breathtaking view of the city and the Andes from the Sky Costanera observation deck, the highest in South America. It’s a spectacular way to say goodbye to the city. At the appropriate time, you will take your pre-arranged transfer to Santiago’s Arturo Merino Benítez Airport (SCL) for your flight home, filled with incredible memories of your diverse and adventurous journey through Chile.

Young Travelers: Use your last morning to revisit a favorite neighborhood like Barrio Italia for some final boutique shopping and a great cup of coffee at a trendy cafe. The bus service from the city center to the airport is a convenient and budget-friendly option for your departure.

Seniors: Enjoy a leisurely and relaxed breakfast at your hotel. A final, gentle stroll through a nearby park, like the Parque Bicentenario in Vitacura with its flamingo-filled lagoons, is a lovely, peaceful activity. A pre-booked private transfer to the airport is the most comfortable and stress-free way to depart.

Family: If you have time, the MIM (Museo Interactivo Mirador) is a fantastic interactive science museum that is a huge hit with children of all ages. It’s located a bit outside the city center but is a very fun and educational final activity for families. A private van transfer to the airport is best for managing family luggage.

With Disability: The Sky Costanera is fully accessible and offers a fantastic final activity with its spectacular views. Ensure you have pre-booked an accessible vehicle for your transfer to the airport, allowing plenty of time for your journey and for navigating the airport.

Luxury Travel: Indulge in some final high-end shopping in the Alonso de Córdova street in Vitacura. Your luxury hotel can arrange a seamless private transfer to the airport, where you can make use of VIP check-in services and relax in a premium airline lounge before your flight.

Adventure: Wake up early for one last urban hike. A sunrise walk up Cerro Santa Lucía, the small and historic hill in the center of the city, offers beautiful views and a final moment of tranquility before the hustle and bustle of your travel day begins.

Nature: Spend your final morning at the Quinta Normal Park, a large and historic park that is home to several museums, including the National Museum of Natural History. It’s a beautiful place for a final walk and a dose of culture and nature before you head to the airport.

On your day of departure, no accommodation is required. The key is to have a hotel that offers convenient services for departing guests. The hotels recommended for your Santiago stay, such as The Singular Santiago or Meridiano Sur, Petit Hotel, will offer secure luggage storage after you check out. This is an invaluable service that allows you to enjoy your last few hours in the city, whether shopping or sightseeing, without being encumbered by your bags.

It’s always a good idea to confirm the luggage storage policy and to inquire about the possibility of a late check-out, especially if you have a late evening flight. Some hotels may offer this for a fee, and the convenience of having a room to return to for a shower and final packing before heading to the airport can make a huge difference to your comfort on your last day.

Plan your journey to Santiago’s Arturo Merino Benítez Airport (SCL) carefully. The airport is located about 30-45 minutes from the city center without traffic, but this can increase significantly during peak hours. It is crucial to allow plenty of time. For an international flight, you should plan to arrive at the airport at least three hours before your departure time.

The official airport transfer services (like Transvip) or a pre-booked taxi/Uber are the most reliable ways to get to the airport. At the airport, you can spend any remaining Chilean Pesos at the shops or cafes. It’s also a good time to get your passport stamped at any novelty stands if you wish, and to ensure all your souvenirs, especially any bottles of wine, are securely packed in your checked luggage.

For your final day and the long flight home, comfort is the highest priority. Choose a comfortable, non-restrictive outfit. A pair of comfortable trousers or joggers, a soft t-shirt, and a cozy sweater or hoodie is the ideal travel uniform. The airplane cabin can get cold, so having warm layers is always a good idea. Wear shoes that are easy to take off at security, like slip-on sneakers or comfortable flats.

If you plan on doing some sightseeing in the morning, your smart-casual city clothes will be fine, but you may want to change into your more comfortable travel attire before heading to the airport. Many hotels have restrooms in the lobby where you can change after you’ve collected your stored luggage. A well-planned, comfortable outfit will make the long journey home much more pleasant.

Enjoy one last Chilean breakfast. A great option is to visit a local cafe for a “cortado” (espresso with a splash of milk) and a pastry. For a final lunch, the Lastarria or Barrio Italia neighborhoods have many excellent cafes and bistros offering delicious and relaxed midday meals. It’s a perfect way to have one last taste of Santiago’s vibrant food scene.

Santiago’s airport has a decent selection of food and beverage options, both before and after security. You can find everything from fast-food chains to sit-down restaurants and cafes. This gives you a final opportunity to grab a meal or some snacks before you board your flight. It’s also a good place to buy some Chilean chocolates or other packaged food items as last-minute gifts.

The most reliable and convenient way to get to Santiago’s Arturo Merino Benítez Airport (SCL) is by pre-booking a private transfer or using an official taxi. Services like Transvip and Delfos offer both private cars and shared shuttles, which can be booked online or at their airport counters upon arrival (and they can be booked for your departure). Using a ride-hailing app like Uber or Cabify is also a popular option.

For budget-conscious travelers, there are two main bus services (Centropuerto and Turbus) that run frequently from the city center (usually from the Los Héroes metro station or the main bus terminals) to the airport. These are comfortable, air-conditioned buses and are a very cost-effective and reliable option, but you must allow for potential traffic delays.

Chile’s dramatic and diverse landscapes provide a stunning backdrop for yoga and wellness retreats. You can find retreats nestled in the serene beauty of the Elqui Valley, a region known for its clear skies and spiritual energy, making it perfect for yoga and stargazing. The stunning Lake District, with its lush forests and tranquil lakes, is another popular destination for wellness getaways that combine yoga with hiking and nature immersion. Even in Patagonia, some high-end lodges offer yoga and spa facilities, allowing you to connect with your inner self while surrounded by one of the world’s most powerful landscapes. These retreats often focus on holistic well-being, combining mindful movement with healthy, local cuisine and the healing power of nature.

Packing for Chile requires preparing for multiple climates in a single trip. The key is layering. For the Atacama Desert, you will need lightweight clothing for the hot days, but also warm fleeces, a winter jacket, a hat, and gloves for the freezing nights and early mornings. For Santiago and the Central Valley, pack for a Mediterranean climate (hot summers, mild winters). For Patagonia, you must pack for all four seasons, with a focus on high-quality waterproof and windproof outerwear, thermal base layers, and fleece. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are essential. Sunscreen is non-negotiable for all regions, as the UV index is high in both the desert and Patagonia.

Chile offers a variety of unique and high-quality crafts. The country is famous for its beautiful lapis lazuli, a deep blue semi-precious stone that is mined in the Andes. You can find exquisite jewelry made from it in Santiago’s artisan markets. In the south, high-quality wool products, including sweaters and blankets made from alpaca and sheep wool, are popular. Copper crafts are also a Chilean specialty. For wine lovers, bringing home a few bottles of high-quality Chilean Carménère or Cabernet Sauvignon is a must. Bargaining is not common in formal shops but may be possible in smaller artisan markets.

1. Do I need a visa for Chile? Citizens of many countries, including the USA, UK, Canada, and the EU, do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days. However, citizens of some countries (like Australia) may need to pay a reciprocity fee upon arrival. Always check the latest requirements for your nationality.
2. What is the currency? The currency is the Chilean Peso (CLP).
3. Is Chile safe for tourists? Chile is one of the safest countries in South America. However, like any country, petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in large cities, especially Santiago and Valparaíso. Be aware of your surroundings and take standard precautions.
4. When is the best time to visit? For Patagonia, the summer months (December to February) are best. For the Atacama Desert, it is a year-round destination, but the shoulder seasons (September-November and March-May) are often most pleasant. The shoulder seasons are also ideal for Santiago and the Central Valley.
5. Should I tip? It is customary to tip about 10% in restaurants for good service. This is usually not included in the bill. Tipping taxi drivers is not expected, but you can round up the fare.
6. Can I drink the tap water? The tap water is generally safe to drink in major cities like Santiago, but it has a high mineral content which can upset some stomachs. In more remote areas like San Pedro de Atacama and Patagonia, it is highly recommended to drink bottled or filtered water.
7. What about altitude sickness? In San Pedro de Atacama and on tours to the Altiplanic Lagoons and El Tatio Geysers, you will be at high altitude (2,400m to over 4,300m). It is important to acclimatize, drink plenty of water and coca tea, and avoid heavy meals and alcohol. Consult your doctor before your trip if you have any health concerns.
8. What is the electricity socket type? Chile uses Type C and Type L plugs. The standard voltage is 220V. A universal travel adapter is recommended.
9. How do I get around? Domestic flights are essential for covering the vast distances between the north, center, and south. Chile has an excellent and comfortable long-distance bus network for travel within regions. In Santiago, the metro is very efficient.
10. Do I need to speak Spanish? English is spoken in major hotels and by tour operators in tourist areas. However, in smaller towns, local restaurants, and with taxi drivers, a basic knowledge of Spanish is extremely helpful and will be greatly appreciated. A translation app is a very useful tool.