Chile Uncovered

Chile is the ultimate destination for lovers of nature and the great outdoors, and this complete 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 and the mystical Maoi of Easter Island; 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 AWA (3 nights)

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

   The next 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: Nayara Alto Atacama (3 nights)

6. Days 12-15: Easter Island

   Some might argue we've saved the best until (almost) last, as you board a flight to the amazingly unique and  remote Easter Island (known locally as Rapa Nui) in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. This tiny island, originally populated by Polynesians but a Chilean territory for some time, is about as far removed from feeling Latin American as is feasibly and geographically possible! During your time here, your guide will whisk you off to some of the island’s most interesting sites as you unpick myths and legends. Of course, there will be plenty of time for photo opportunities standing alongside the famous moai, or giant stone heads (an absolute must!) but you’ll soon realise there is much more to Easter Island as you learn about the fascinating history of its people, visit traditional ceremonial villages and hike around the island’s largest volcanic crater.
   
   Your boutique hotel is like a tranquil oasis, set amongst manicured gardens with an inviting swimming pool and tranquil places to relax, read a book and enjoy a beer or local cocktail. It’s just a short stroll into the main town (Hanga Roa) where you’ll find an array of oceanfront restaurants. Enjoy waking up each morning to a delicious organic breakfast, which includes tropical fruits from its own garden and yummy homemade pastries. And although much of the coastline is defined by rocky coves and tall cliffs, there are some beautiful sandy beaches where you can go swimming too.

   Accommodation: Hare Nua Hotel Boutique (3 nights)

7. Days 15-17: 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)

8. 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.

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