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CHL Overview

Chile

HIGHLIGHTS

• Torres del Paine N.P.
• Wine tasting in the Maipo Valley
• Osorno, Calbuco, Puntiagudo and Tronador volcanoes
• Valparaiso - UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Valley of the Moon
• Atacama Desert

FACT FILE

• 16 land days
• Start in Punta Arenas, finish in Santiago
• All meals included
• Includes 4 internal flights

• Activity Level: 3

FROM: $8,495 USD
 

DATES, PRICES & AVAILABILITY

     

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable hotels/lodges with private bathrooms.

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Begin this incredible journey in Torres del Paine National Park, one of the most remote, unspoiled and beautiful places on Earth. Explore the Chilean Lakes region and see the vibrant green Petrohue Falls before flying to Santiago. Explore the sights of Santiago and enjoy wine tasting in the world-famous Maipo Valley.

Witness spectacular Andean views and remote gorges and valleys dotted by fincas (ranches). Enjoy the surreal landscape of the Atacama - including Tatio Geysers, Laguna Colorado.

What makes this journey even more impressive is the fact that most of these destinations remain virtually undiscovered by tourists.

CHL Detailed Itinerary
Detailed Itinerary

Click the PDF icon to download the

Chile detailed itinerary

DAY 1: ARRIVAL PUNTA ARENAS

Upon arrival in Punta Arenas, you are met and transferred to our hotel. The remainder of the day is free to explore Punta Arenas. In the evening, we have our introductory meeting and dinner.

 

DAY 2: TO TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK

Today, we drive to Torres del Paine National Park, enjoying the spectacular scenery on the way. On our way, we will have lunch in the charming town of Puerto Natales. Torres del Paine National Park, in Chilean Patagonia, is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and is one of the most remote, unspoiled and beautiful places on Earth.
Overnight in the Paine area.

 

DAY 3: NORDENSKJOLD AND GREY LAKES

We spend the day exploring Torres del Paine National Park, including unique views of the towers and horns, as well as the colorful Nordenskjold and Grey Lakes, with their pristine blue waters and icebergs.

We have short walks during the day (an hour or so in length) and for those who wish for more walking, this can also be arranged. There is a variety of flora and fauna found in the park, from grasslands to forests. Some of the fauna that populate the park include guanacos, rheas, condors, mountain lions, foxes and a wide variety of birds. 
Overnight in the Paine area.

 

DAY 4: TO PUERTO NATALES

Today, we explore the northern part of Paine National Park for yet more spectacular views of Chilean Patagonia. We then visit Milodon Cave, where, in the late 19th century, Captain Eberhard found bones and fur of a long extinct giant ground sloth. We then continue on to Puerto Natales. 
Overnight in Puerto Natales.

 

DAY 5: TO PUERTO VARAS

We have some time for sightseeing on this leisurely travel day. We have a short flight from Puerto Natales to Puerto Montt and then transfer to Puerto Varas.

Located on the southern shore of Lago Llanquihue, facing the cone of the Osorno Volcano, Puerto Varas combines the best of the area's nature and culture. Originally settled by the Germans in the mid-to-late 19th century, the town itself is charming. 
Overnight in Puerto Varas.

 

DAY 6: VOLCANOES AND PETROHUÉ RAPIDS

Weather permitting, today we will have breathtaking views of some of the many stunning volcanoes found in the Lake District. We drive along the lake towards the Osorno volcano, most likely one of the most beautiful cones in the world, due to its nearly perfect shape. On our way, we pass close to the Calbuco volcano with its blown-off top. As we drive up the Osorno, which may be still in the clouds, we will have better views of the Puntiagudo and Tronador volcanoes, the latter one being the highest peak in the area (over 11,000 ft) and on the border with Argentina.

Once back at lake level, we drive further east to reach the stunning All Saints Lake (Todos los Santos) with its emerald color, and will have lunch close to the shore.

After lunch we drive to the Petrohué Rapids in the Petrohué River that drains the All Saints Lake. We will have time for one or two short strolls and enjoy unbelievable views of the rapids with the Osorno in the background and the forested mountains around. After our visit, we will drive back to Puerto Varas. Time permitting, you may be able to visit the town on your own. 
Overnight in Puerto Varas.

 

DAY 7: TO SANTIAGO

A short drive this morning takes us back to Puerto Montt where there may be time to visit the Angelmo Fish and Flea Market before boarding our flight to the capital, Santiago de Chile. Upon arrival, we take in the sights of the city - visiting the historic center, which includes the Presidential House "La Moneda" and Constitution Square, the ex-National Congress and Justice Tribunal buildings enroute to the impressive Plaza de Armas. 

We visit one of the world's largest urban parks, San Cristobal Hill. This lush park includes a zoo, a cable car, international gardens and restaurants. At the top of San Cristobal Hill, there are spectacular panoramic views of the city. Crowning the hilltop are beautiful tiered gardens and an impressive statue of the Virgin of the Immaculate Conception that can be seen from most points in the city. 
Overnight in Santiago.

 

DAY 8: VALPARAISO

Today, we discover the exceptional beauty of Valparaiso, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2003. Prior to the construction of the Panama Canal in 1914, the port of Valparaiso was the most important in the South Pacific. Ships from around the world called here once they rounded Cape Horn or passed through the Strait of Magellan. 

Here we explore a labyrinth of streets that stretch over the many-tiered hillsides facing the bay and see an antique funicular (wooden cable-car elevator) that transports residents up and down the hills. We see the imaginative architecture and bright colors of the centenarian homes built by the first European settlers - most of which were English and German. 

Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean as we visit the 21st of May Hill with its Naval Museum and barracks. Other highlights include the Turri Clock, Stock Exchange, and El Mercurio Newspaper building, as well as the "Plaza Sotomayor" with its impressive Naval Heroes Monument, ex-Intendencia and Justice Tribunal buildings.
We return to Santiago for our overnight.

 

DAY 9: WINE TASTING IN THE MAIPO VALLEY

Today, we learn all about the history and magic of wine-making in some of the most prestigious wineries in Chile. We visit a winery to watch the wine-making process, and take a walk around the vineyards, the production plant, the wine cellar and see the final product bottled. 
We hope to visit at least two wineries today before returning to Santiago.
Overnight in Santiago

 

DAY 10: FLY TO CALAMA AND DRIVE TO SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA

We depart Santiago and fly to Calama. Upon arrival we will drive to the small town of San Pedro de Atacama. After checking in to our hotel we will have time to relax and settle in before embarking on the next leg of our adventure.
Overnight in San Pedro

 

DAY 11: THE ATACAMA DESERT, MOON VALLEY

We spend the morning at leisure in the legendary and original adobe town of San Pedro de Atacama, an oasis in the world's driest and perhaps most beautiful desert, with its impressive geological formations and stunning scenery. We visit San Pedro's great museum (pending the re-opening after extensive renovations.)

In the late afternoon, we visit the magnificent reddish clay and salt range, better known as the world famous Moon Valley. Watching the sunset here is a must. 
Overnight in San Pedro.

 

DAY 12: ALTIPLANIC LAGOONS, TOCONAO & SOCAIRE

This incredible excursion will begin when we leave for the Salar de Atacama where we will be able to observe two or three different species of flamingos in the Chaxa lagoon. Later, we will continue to the impressive Miscanti and Meñique altiplanic lagoons, located at an elevation of 4,200 m (13,500 ft). These deep blue waters are surrounded by volcanoes and a wonderful landscape. Later we will visit the charming town of Socaire, famous for its agricultural terraces. Then move on to the town of Toconao, built with volcanic rock and renowned for the spectacular views it offers of the Salar de Atacama.
Overnight in San Pedro

 

DAY 13: THE ATACAMA DESERT, TATIO GEYSERS

Very early morning drive to visit the massive and impressive area of Tatio Geysers. There are hundreds of geysers in the area and most of them are active. The best time of the day to see the geysers erupting is in the early morning when the low temperature allows us to see the steam. It is truly a remarkable sight. Return to San Pedro with some time at leisure this afternoon. 
Overnight in San Pedro.

 

DAY 14: PURITAMA HOT SPRINGS

This morning we drive to the delightful Puritama Hot Springs, a series of hot pools (temperature is approx 34°C). A perfect place to feel completely cleansed and refreshed before heading back to San Pedro for lunch. 

This afternoon is free to explore the town. You can even hire a bike or horse for the afternoon! San Pedro is a great place to get around on your own as there is almost no traffic; everything is accessible by foot, from the handicraft market to the town post office.
Overnight in San Pedro.

 

DAY 15: DRIVE TO CALAMA, FLY TO SANTIAGO

Enjoy our last glimpse of the Atacama region during the drive to Calama and during the flight to Santiago, with stunning views of the Andes. Arrive in Santiago late afternoon. 

Overnight in Santiago.

 

DAY 16: DEPART SANTIAGO

Today we depart for our homeward flights.

CHL FAQs
FAQ's

HOW BIG ARE THE GROUPS? 

Each group is limited to 16 participants. Small groups are an important ingredient in adventure travel. They allow for more interaction and more personalized service throughout the itinerary.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE TOUR PRICE?

All accommodations throughout; all meals, starting with dinner on day 1 and finishing with breakfast on departure day (i.e. the last day of the ElderTreks tour); bottled drinking water throughout the trip; all internal transportation; airport transfers on day 1 and departure day (i.e. the last day of the ElderTreks tour); all day trips and entrance fees as outlined in the itinerary; tips for hotels (porterage), bus driver, restaurants, national guides, and spot guides; services of a trip leader. 

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE TOUR PRICE?

International flights, tips to ElderTreks tour leader, alcoholic drinks, visa’s and travel insurance.

ARE THESE “EDUCATIONAL” TOURS?

Yes, in the broadest sense of the word, “educational”. We visit museums, National Parks and Reserves and have talks and discussions on many aspects of history, culture and nature. But this is only a portion of the educational experience. We believe that it is equally educational to meet local people on a non-commercial basis, visit their homes and even try to learn a few words in the native language. Sometimes the most “educational” moments are spent sipping a cold drink in a street market. 

HOW DO WE TRAVEL DURING THE TOUR?

We travel by minivan or bus and fly between Buenos Aires/Ushuaia/El Calafate & Punta Arenas/Puerto Montt/Santiago. We also sightsee by boat..

WHAT ARE OUR ACCOMMODATIONS LIKE?

We always stay in good accommodations — both hotels and lodges. Accommodation can be in hotels or in cozy estancias.

WHAT ABOUT THE WEATHER?

Weather in Patagonia can change rapidly; in one day you can experience 4 seasons. Dampness and wind can make the temperatures feel lower and rainfall can be encountered throughout the travel season. However, it can get warm enough to wear shorts.

WHEN IS PAYMENT DUE?

A non-refundable deposit of $500 USD (plus insurance if you require it) is due at time of booking and will reserve your place on the tour. Payment of the full land cost is due 120 days before departure. Cancellation charges are applicable and are outlined in the “Terms and Conditions” section of our brochure.

IS MEDICAL INSURANCE REQUIRED?

Insurance coverage is not included in the cost of your trip. Please note that medical insurance is not required for this adventure but is recommended. ElderTreks offers comprehensive travel insurance with Manulife for Canadian guests, and John Hancock for American guests.  Please CLICK HERE to view and purchase your insurance policy today. If you are purchasing insurance elsewhere, please ensure you provide the details to ElderTreks as soon as possible. 

 

WHAT SHOULD I TAKE ON THE TOUR?

There is a detailed “What to Take” list in our Trip Kit, which we will send to you after you have booked the trip.

WHAT MEALS ARE INCLUDED?

All meals are included, starting with dinner on day 1, and finishing with breakfast on day 17. We eat a variety of local foods delivered in a wide range of settings.

CAN YOU ARRANGE MY FLIGHTS?

We would be happy to take care of your air arrangements. ElderTreks offers personalized flight itineraries — not group flights. Stop over en route, come in a few days early, or extend your stay. Call us for a customized itinerary.

WHAT IF I WOULD LIKE MORE INFORMATION?

If you have any further questions about the adventure, please call our office for more details. A Trip Specialist will be happy to answer your questions. A Trip Kit containing further details on the destination will be sent to you once you have booked the trip.

CHL Dates & Prices
Dates & Prices

All pricing is currently listed in USD

*Single Supplement is the additional amount applied to the cost of the trip to those who are travelling solo and do not wish to share.

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Click here to view our    online Catalogue
 
Please Note:
ElderTreks will not be printing a 2024/2025 catalogue. We will only have an online version.

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