Chile Uncovered

Chile is the ultimate destination for lovers of nature and the great outdoors, and this classic itinerary takes you on a tour of its most spectacular landscapes. From glacial mountains to windswept deserts, mirror like lakes surrounded by volcanoes to rows of vineyards; you will take in Chile's best bits.

1. Fly to Santiago

2. Days 1-3: Santiago

   Your first port of call on this epic journey is the cosmopolitan and energetic city of Santiago. With the help of a knowledgeable guide, explore the city at length, visiting some of its most famous landmarks. Cerro San Cristobal is the city's major attraction, with glorious views out over the skyline, flanked by the impressive Andes mountains. There are some worthwhile museums and galleries to stop in at if you have time and several leafy parks and plazas to stroll through. With a thriving gastronomy scene, taking influences from around the world and rivalling its Peruvian and Argentinian neighbours, you won’t be disappointed.

   Accommodation: Hotel Cumbres Lastarria (2 nights)

3. Days 3-6: Torres del Paine

   Leaving the city behind, head south to the Patagonian wilderness and explore the stunning Torres del Paine National Park, where towering jagged mountains meet glistening turquoise lakes. Experience a truly unique and memorable stay, sleeping in a luxurious tented camp and enjoy picture perfect sunrises over breakfast. Lace up your walking boats and grab your climbing poles as your enthusiastic guide takes you around the park’s highlights and famous hiking trails or give your legs a rest and kayak around the lake with its gorgeous snow-capped mountain backdrop. And don’t worry about a thing, as all your delicious hearty meals and daily guided excursions are included in your stay.

   Accommodation: Patagonia Camp (3 nights)

4. Days 6-9: Puerto Varas and surrounds

   Torres del Paine is tough to beat, but your next stop is the picturesque Lake District region, specifically Puerto Varas, which provides the perfect base for exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding area. The town sits on the shores of shimmering Lake Llanquihue and is overshadowed by the perfect conical peaks of the Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes. There are many adventures to be had here, whether its climbing one of the volcanoes, enjoying a boat trip across the lake, hiking to the icy-blue Petrohue Falls, river-rafting or fly-fishing, or wandering around the Bavarian feeling town and sampling locally brewed craft beers. With two full days at leisure, you could also take a trip to the largely untouched archipelago of Chiloé. Completely off the beaten track and utterly unspoiled, Chiloé represents an area of Chile that still practices many ancient traditions. The islands have an aura of mythology and meeting the locals will most certainly be an experience not to forget.

   Accommodation: Hotel Cabaña del Lago (3 nights)

5. Days 9-12: San Pedro de Atacama, Northern Chile & Atacama Desert, Chile

   The penultimate destination on this wonderful journey is the spectacular Atacama Desert in the far north of the country. The highest and driest desert in the world, it affords some of the most spellbinding scenery, rivalling what you will have already witnessed. Home to some of the highest geysers on earth, multi-coloured moonlike rock formations, flamingo filled lakes and vast salt flats, it should be on every traveller’s wish list. The lack of pollution combined with its clear desert night sky make it one of the best places on earth for stargazing and we are confident it’ll be one of your favourite places on this trip. You will also have a chance to explore the laidback dusty town of San Pedro de Atacama, where you can find quaint handicraft markets and a good choice of restaurants and bars to enjoy after a long day of visiting the main sights.

   Accommodation: Terrantai Hotel (3 nights)

6. Days 12-14: Central Valley

   The final stop on your trip will be the beautiful, sun-soaked wine region of Casablanca Valley. You'll stay at one of our absolute favourite properties and indulge in some well-earned relaxation time. Go for leisurely strolls or saddle up on a horse and criss-cross through the vineyards. While away lazy afternoons on the day beds beside the glistening outdoor swimming pool whilst trying to finish your holiday read that you’ve not had a chance to pick up yet. Of course, you're also there to enjoy the wines, so take a tour of the facilities and discover some of Chile's best bottles. The food at the two onsite restaurants are noteworthy in themselves, enjoy tapas style dishes at lunch and a more formal gourmet offering at dinner, best paired with a locally produced wine.

   Accommodation: La Casona at Matetic Vineyards (2 nights)

7. Fly home from Santiago

   Make the most of your last day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and a final swim in the pool before transferring back to Santiago to check in for your flight home.

• Hiking & Trekking at Patagonia Camp

  Choose from over a dozen trekking & hiking excursions, varying in length and difficulty to suit all abilities. Spot the famous Paine Massif and more, following your bilingual guide through the sweeping landscapes of the high plains and jagged mountains.

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• Optional Experiences at Patagonia Camp

  Several add on experiences can be arranged for an additional cost. Options include horseback riding in the pampas, additional kayaking excursions, guided fly fishing, and exploring Grey Glacier or Serrano Glacier by boat.

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Santiago, Torres del Paine National Park, Lake District, Atacama Desert, Casablanca Valley