Discover Chile
Discover Chile
Discover Chile
13 Days Starting and ending in Santiago
Visiting: Chile, Patagonia
Tour operator:
Tour code:
AAE
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
5 - 16
Age range:
16-99
Special diets catered:
Please inform Exodus of specific dietary requirements
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Chile’s narrow coastal strip stretches for 4300km and is dominated by the towering peaks of the Andes. Covering over half the length of South America, Chile has an unparalleled range of environments; from the world’s driest desert, the hostile Atacama, with its geysers and salt flats, to the fertile valleys and vineyards of central Chile. To the south lies the Lake District with dramatic, snow-capped volcanoes, deep blue lakes and gushing waterfalls. Further still, we reach Patagonia, a land of ice fields, mountains, glaciers and immense solitude; the 'uttermost part of the earth'.
Highlights
Itinerary
Depart London.
Day 2
Clients on the group flight will usually arrive in the morning. A walking
tour of the city tour is organised today (approx. 4 hours), visiting the
squares and streets of the colonial centre and the Presidential Palace. We
also visit San Cristobal Hill, on which a statue of the Virgin Mary stands.
The summit of Cerro San Cristobal offers a birds-eye view of Santiago, the
Andean Mountains and the Maipo-Valley. Without a doubt the best viewpoint in
the city! If there is time we will also see the wealthy suburbs of the
‘Barrio Alto’, an area of elegant shops and first class restaurants.
Please note that due to the arrival times of the group flights, the city tour
will usually start around 2pm or 2:30pm. Land Only clients wishing to join
the city tour would be advised to be at the hotel around 2pm in order to be
collected.
*Accommodation: Hotel Providencia (or similar)*
Day 3
The historic World Heritage city of Valparaíso, or Valpo for short, is
Chile’s oldest port and home to the country’s National Congress since
democracy was re-established in 1989. The Pacific coast is just a short 1.5
hour drive from Santiago and today’s excursion will give us an interesting
insight into Chilean culture.
The city’s many hills are covered in a glorious sprawl of multi-coloured
houses covering every nook and cranny, creating a spectacular panorama which
can be enjoyed from a number of vantage points. Strolling through the streets
of Valparaíso is a fascinating experience which enables us to soak up the
quirky and bohemian atmosphere, something different to anywhere else in
Chile. We’ll visit the UNESCO recognised historic city centre, in addition
to the parliamentary building, and the War of the Pacific memorial.
Due to the steep terrain in some parts of the city, it is home to numerous
funicular lifts which transport residents straight up and down the hillsides
rather than them having to zigzag through the maze of buildings. Many of
these lifts have fallen into disrepair and sit suspended in time and hidden
amid the labyrinth. However, there is a drive to restore as many as possible
and we’ll be able to use one of the most iconic functioning lifts on our
way to a viewpoint. In the afternoon we will return to our hotel in Santiago.
*Accommodation: Hotel Providencia (or similar)*
Day 4
In the morning we fly to Calama near the Atacama Desert where we transfer to
our hotel in the town of San Pedro de Atacama. Once we have checked in. the
leader will offer a short orientation tour of the town for anyone who wants
to join. At dusk we set out to the Valley of the Moon. This bizarre lunar
landscape is set ablaze with colour at sunset, the strange rock formations
framed by the Lincancabur Volcano. We'll stay until the sun goes down to
enjoy the array of colours before returning to San Pedro.
*Accommodation: Hotel Diego de Almagro (or similar)*
Day 5
Departing our hotel in San Pedro, we will set off towards the Altiplano
Lagoons (Lagunas Altiplanicas) and stop en route at the village of Socaire,
set at 3218m/10,558ft. The village is noteworthy for its peculiar
architecture using rough stonework and the inhabitants here still live by the
age-old methods of planting terraced fields with corn, wheat and potatoes.
Afterwards, we continue for about another 30km/19miles, climbing an
additional 1000m/3,281ft in altitude to reach the highland lagoons of
Miscanti and Miñiques. The two volcanoes of the same name are visible in the
background (almost 6000m/19,686ft high). The twin lagoons are a deep blue,
each framed by a white salt crust, which creates a memorable contrast to the
yellow highland grass all around. It is completely silent here. Even the duck
species that breed here, the foxes, and the grazing vicuñas (a type of
camelid), respect the majestic silence.
We continue on and visit the Salar de Atacama. A salt lake of huge
proportions (3000 sq km/1,158 sq miles), its surface is covered by a thick
layer of snow-white salt crystals as far as the eye can see, caused by the
evaporation of the lake’s water. The world’s largest lithium deposits are
found here, but the salt pan is also home to several flamingo species,
including the Andean, Chilean and James flamingo, who feed on the
micro-organisms found in the saline lagoons. These beautiful birds and other
species can be observed in their natural habitat at the Salar de Atacama’s
Chaxa Lagoon, which is part of the Reserva Nacional de los Flamencos. After
the excursion we will return to San Pedro.
*Accommodation: Hotel Diego de Almagro (or similar)*
Day 6
To experience the El Tatio Geysers we’ll have to get up very early in order
to arrive at the geyser field (located over 4300m/14,108ft above sea level)
in time for sunrise! The fountains that shoot up to 10m/33ft high occur when
the morning sun melts the nightly ice caps that form over the hot springs.
The sun’s first rays reflect an array of colours as they mix with boiling
jets coming from the geysers to create strong contrasts of steam and light.
At around midday we’ll head back to San Pedro for some free time. There is
an optional astronomy tour tonight that can be paid for locally but should be
booked in advance of departure as availability is limited (Please note that
this tour doesn't operate on full moon days and is not recommended 3 days
before or after the full moon).
*Accommodation: Hotel Diego de Almagro (or similar)*
Day 7
Today we transfer to Calama airport and fly to Santiago and then Puerto
Montt, the capital of the Lake District. This is a long travelling day that
will likely require an early start depending on the flight schedules. On
arrival in the Lake District region we drive for 30 minutes to Puerto Varas
on the shores of Lago Llanquihue. Depending on flight arrival time, we can
enjoy a brief tour of the 'City of the Roses' as it has come to be called
because of the tremendous variety of roses all over town. If we arrive on a
later flight unfortunately this will not be possible. If scheduled to
arrive on a later flight, we also recommend buying some food at the airport
as you may not have any options on arrival at your hotel.
*Accommodation: Hotel Park Inn by Radisson (or similar)*
Day 8
We set out this morning for a full day inside the Lake District. We drive
along the shore of Lago Llanquihue and enjoy breathtaking views of the Osorno
and Calbuco volcanoes. Our first real stop will be at the Saltos de Petrohue
where cooling lava from the Osorno Volcano formed a series of rapids and
waterfalls. Together they form an impressive sculpture of extruded volcanic
rock shaped by thousands of years of river flow. At Petrohue we board a boat
for a short cruise of Lago Todos los Santos (All Saints Lake). The lake is
surrounded by high mountains and the lower slopes are thickly forested. As we
pull away from the landing and the source of the river Petrohue the view is
quickly stolen away by the tremendous size and proximity of snow-capped
Osorno Volcano behind us. After our boat tour, we return to Petrohue and take
a hike in the lower lava fields of the volcano. We also visit the Green
Lagoon (Laguna Verde) before we return towards Puerto Varas in the afternoon.
Please note that the order of the itinerary today may change depending on the
weather conditions.
*Accommodation: Hotel Park Inn by Radisson (or similar)*
Day 9
After breakfast we transfer to the capital of the Lake District, Puerto
Montt, and take a sightseeing tour of the city. Puerto Montt was founded in
1853 by German colonists on the site of an indigenous Mapuche community.
Downtown we take time to walk about the main squares and historical
monuments. Afterwards we visit the port, where there is a large handicraft
market full of artisan goods. Please note that depending on the flight times,
this tour might be moved to the previous day instead. We then transfer to the
airport to board a flight to Punta Arenas, Patagonia - the southernmost city
in Chile. From here we transfer to Puerto Natales where we spend the night.
*Accommodation: Hostal Francis Drake (or similar)*
Day 10
This morning we drive into Torres del Paine National Park for a day of
excursions within a spectacular environment. This is a busy day of travelling
and walking including unforgettable views of the Towers and the Torres Massif
from the 'Cuernos' viewpoint and 'Salto Grande' waterfall. In addition to
being introduced to the flora and fauna of the region, today we will also
visit 'Laguna Azul' for more breath-taking views.
*Accommodation: Hotel del Paine (or similar)*
Day 11
Another day in Torres del Paine National Park, this time to explore the
Western highlights including Lake Grey. This deep lake, fed by the glacier of
the same name, is filled with icebergs which have splashed down from the
massive ice flow. From the hotel, we'll drive to a spot to the south of the
lake, then start a short hike by crossing a suspension bridge over the Pingo
River. From here the path leads through a Legna forest typical to the area,
and continues onward to the tip of the narrow peninsula at the lake’s
southern end. This viewpoint offers a spectacular view of the lake with its
icebergs, the tongue of Grey Glacier at the far northern end, and the
snow-covered mountain peaks soaring above. On the way back a stop is made at
the Park Visitors Centre to see an exposition of the origin and history of
the park. This afternoon is free to relax at the hotel or enjoy some optional
excursions in the area.
*Accommodation: Hotel del Paine (or similar)*
Day 12
This morning we have some free time or take part in an optional boat
excursion which takes you to the Grey Glacier. For anyone not wanting to
take the optional excursion, the leader will accompany you on visits to other
areas of Torres del Paine. Afterwards we will regroup and visit the Milodon
Cave (entrance fee not included and payee locally approx. US$ 8 per person).
Today we will end in Puerto Natales and transfer together to the hotel,
arriving around 5.30pm.
*Accommodation: Hostal Francis Drake (or similar)*
Day 13
Transfer through the barren Pampa of Patagonia, an impressive road trip as we
journey to Punta Arenas airport. We fly back to Santiago (flight times can
vary) and enjoy our final evening in Chile.
*Accommodation: Hotel Providencia (or similar)*
Day 14
There is a transfer back to the airport for those on group flights. Those on
land only arrangements will leave us in Santiago this morning.
Day 15
Arrive London
What's Included
-
Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
-
All accommodation
-
Internal flights
-
All breakfasts
-
Tour leader throughout
What's Not Included
-
Visas or vaccinations
-
Single accommodation (available on request)
-
Travel insurance
Food
All breakfasts are included.
All areas offer good quality local and international meals. Beef is very
popular in Chile, especially steak, and the majority of dishes tend to be
quite meaty. In Patagonia, lamb takes over as the most popular meat. There is
also delicious, freshly-caught fish and seafood in the areas closer to the
coast. Service can be slow in restaurants so do not expect European
standards.
Vegetarian food is available in many of the restaurants but options may be
limited, especially in Patagonia. Please inform us before departure of any
special dietary requests.
Accommodation
The regionally inspired three-star hotels selected for our Discover Chile trip ensure we are comfortable, as our wide-ranging adventure takes us from the Atacama Desert in the north, through cosmopolitan Santiago, into German styled Puerto Varas in the Lakes District, and to the wilds of Patagonia in the far south. Below are the hotels we typically use.
Santiago: Panamericana Hotel Providencia (nights 1, 2 and 12)
The Panamericana Hotel Providencia offers a blend of classical and contemporary décor in the upscale neighborhood of Providencia. It has comfortable and spacious rooms, a swimming pool, fitness center, and variety of culinary options. It is also conveniently near the metro station, Mapocho River walk and the Metropolitan Park.
San Pedro de Atacama: Hotel Diego de Almagro (nights 3-5)
Hotel Diego de Almagro is in the center of San Pedro de Atacama, granting easy access to shops and restaurants. It has an outdoor pool and large garden with native plants and flowers where you can relax and enjoy views of the Licancabur volcano.
Puerto Varas: Hotel Park Inn by Radisson (nights 6-7)
Alongside an architectural style that reflects the German heritage of the city, the Hotel Park Inn by Radisson has an outdoor swimming pool and is only a few blocks from Lake Llanquihue. It also has spacious and comfortable rooms, plus a restaurant serving regional and international cuisines.
Puerto Natales: Hostal Francis Drake (nights 8 and 11)
Locally owned and operated, Hostal Francis Drake has 19 warmly decorated rooms, a large dining room and two comfortable reading rooms where you can relax after a day exploring Torres del Paine National Park. The location affords easy access to Puerto Natales shopping and dining, plus it's just two blocks from the windswept bay.
Torres del Paine: Hotel del Paine (nights 9-10)
Hotel Paine is a mountain hotel on the banks of the Serrano River with a privileged view of the spectacular Paine massif. The rooms are cosy, with wooden furniture and warm colors that reflect the culture and environment of Patagonia. The restaurant and bar serve delicious cuisine based on local products and include organic vegetables grown on site.
Check out our Q&As
-
Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
Minimum 16 years age old people can go on this tour.
-
What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?
3-star
-
What is the maximum group size?
16
-
Are vaccinations required for this tour?
There are no mandatory vaccination requirements. Recommended vaccinations are: Tetanus, Typhoid, Hepatitis A..
-
Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes
-
What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
If you wish to make any changes to your booking, particularly if you need to alter any flights booked through us, please let us know as soon as possible. There is a booking or flight amendment fee of £40 per change and flight amendments often incur extra airline costs depending on the changes to be made and if the ticket has been issued or not.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
Exodus has been trading since 1974
-
What documents will I receive before I travel?
Your final joining instructions and flight details, if booked with us, will then be sent out 2 to 3 weeks before departure. If you would like a hard copy posted, or if you require these any earlier, please contact the customer operations team. We advise that if you are booking connecting travel before receiving these, please ensure you leave plenty of time.
-
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Travellers are welcome to opt to share a room with a tour member of the same gender for no additional charge. If you'd like your own room, we can request a single supplement so that you will have your own room throughout.
-
Can I join the tour once it has departed?
You are welcome to meet the group after the tour has departed however there is no reduction in rate for joining a tour after the departure date.
Reviews from travellers on this tour
1 Select your preferred date
Monday - Saturday
Dec 16, 2024 - Dec 28, 2024Monday - Saturday
Jan 13, 2025 - Jan 25, 2025Monday - Saturday
Feb 03, 2025 - Feb 15, 2025Monday - Saturday
Mar 10, 2025 - Mar 22, 2025Monday - Saturday
Oct 13, 2025 - Oct 25, 2025Monday - Saturday
Nov 03, 2025 - Nov 15, 2025Monday - Saturday
Nov 10, 2025 - Nov 22, 2025Monday - Saturday
Nov 24, 2025 - Dec 06, 2025Monday - Saturday
Dec 08, 2025 - Dec 20, 2025Book with Confidence
-
Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Exodus Adventure Travels allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform exodus adventure travels, 43 days before departure.
-
Low Deposit
Exodus Adventure Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of exodus adventure travels charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
Enquire for huge savings
Rated 5* on Trust Pilot & ABTA Protected.