We will visit and explore Pumalin Park and it's spectacular alerce groves (like the sequoia or redwoods), Futalefu and its world famous river, Alerce National Park
Day 1: After arriving in Chile transfer to your connecting flight to Puerto Montt. A short drive from the airport takes you to the beautiful lakeside town of Puerto Varas and its Fuji like views of Osorno Volcano providing a perfect setting to rest up and relax.
Day 2: Depart across the sound for Chaiten by high-speed catamaran or plane where your guide will meet you. From here we drive north to the headquarters of Pumalin Park perhaps stopping for a short hike on one of the many beautiful trails and a picnic lunch. Upon arriving at Caleta Gonzoles at the edge of a spectacular fjord, we will check into a cozy cabin and have the rest of the afternoon to relax or fish.
Day 3: The next morning we board a launch for a tour of the fjord, it’s large sea lion colony, and the honey making operation and organic gardens of the park. Returning in the afternoon we can fish, rest, or hike.
Day 4: Today we depart for Futalefu and its world famous river passing by incredible mountain scenery on the way. Arriving in Futalefu we check into our lodging and have the afternoon free to explore the area.
Day 5: We will spend the fifth day exploring the area around Futalefu and for those who want more than a little adventure, an optional rafting trip down the Fu can be arranged (Class IV). For those less adventurous there is mountain biking, horseback riding, hiking, or any number of other activities.
Day 6: Today we will cross the boarder into Argentina and travel north through the Alerce National Park to the charming mountain town of Bolson. Here we will stay at a lovely lodge surrounded by its own herb gardens and a trout pond that can provide tonight’s meal.
Day 7: We head south for the town of Esquel stopping at an excellent museum documenting the peoples and history of Patagonia. Arriving in town we are free to explore the town or visit some of the beautiful nearby farming communities.
Day 8: Departing Esquel we return to Chile by a different road and spectacular new scenery. A long days drive brings us to the Termas de Puyuhapui where we are picked up by launch and delivered to the hot springs and its world-class spa facility.
Day 9: Today we head south for Coyhaique passing by the Queault National Park where we will stop to explore a spectacular hanging glacier. We arrive in Coyhaique in the late afternoon and after checking into to our hotel rest up for the farewell dinner!
Situated just south of Coyhaique and nestled between the magnificent peaks of the Northern Patagonia Icecap lies some of the most inspiring and powerful scenery
Day 1: Arrive in Coyhaique and after being greeted at the Balmaceda airport and check into our hotel. Afternoon free to relax and check out the town.
Day 2: We will make a circuit of the area surrounding Coyhaique to introduce you to its’ incredible beauty and diverse geography. Night in Coyhaique
Day 3: Depart for the second largest lake in South America. Today we’ll cross several passes and drive along spectacular river valleys eventually reaching the lake in mid afternoon. We’ll stop along the way to stretch our legs and for a delicious picnic lunch. In the evening we’ll settle into a cozy lakeside lodge.
Day 4: Today we’ll explore the area around what is known as “The Pearl of The Lake” or perhaps just relax around the lodge, take a boat ride, or try some fishing.
Day 5: Heading for Cochrane today, we’ll make many stops to appreciate the incredible scenery and perhaps go on some short walks. Today we will visit an area of extreme beauty and interesting wildlife, which may become Patagonia National Park under the direction of Conservation Patagonia.
Day 6: Exploring the area surrounding Cochrane today, we will chose the activities and destinations based on weather and the groups interests. Options range from a boat trip up the indiscernible Cochrane River into the lake by the same name, hiking with a view of the peaks of the Northern Ice fields, and/or visiting with some of the local gauchos. Night in Cochrane.
Day 6: Day 7: Returning to Lago General Carrera we can decide on whatever activities the weather and group consensus most favors. We’ll have a chance to visit the unique and exotic marble caverns by boat in the lake or perhaps visit the Rio Explorodores below the northern ice fields. Night near Rio Tranquillo
Day 8: Retun to Coyhaique Night in Coyhaique
Day 9: Departure from Coyhaique
Extras: Icefield flyover, riding, fishing guide, boat rental
This seven-day trip takes you around the second largest lake in South America and to the area surrounding the frontier town of Cochrane. There will be plenty of opportunity to make side trips into little know valleys to view wildlife and the Patagonia style of living. Hiking, fishing, horseback riding, photography, rafting and the possibility of an ice field flyover are just some of the many activities that are possible.
From Chaiten (just south of Puerto Montt) the Southern Highway or Carretera Austral leads south through 600 miles of temperate rainforests, fjords
From Chaiten (just south of Puerto Montt) the Southern Highway or Carretera Austral leads south through 600 miles of temperate rainforests, fjords, turquoise lakes, and hanging glaciers before finally being blocked by the southern ice fields (Campo de Hielo Sur.)
The logistics of traveling this road with safety, flexibility and in comfort, however, present challenges for the visitor with a limited time frame owing to expensive rental cars, difficult driving conditions, and limited and infrequent public transportation. Our service is specifically designed to introduce you to the incredible variety of geography and recreational possibilities of the area from a local’s perspective within your time frame and desired comfort level. We travel along the Southern Highway in 4-wheel drive vehicles exploring side roads, camping or staying in hotels according to your wishes. We can stop to hike, take horseback trips, or raft some of the world f mous rivers. The fishing possibilities are endless and excellent.
There are no set itineraries; however, we recommend a minimum of three days for a section to as much as ten days for the entire route.
Ideas for Custom Trips: Chaiten-Coyhaique. On this three or four day trip we will pick you up in Chaiten, the start of the Carretera Austral. After a visit to Pumalin National Park, we head south crossing some of the largest and most beautiful rivers in Chile. If you wish, we can arrange to take you for a trip on the Futalefu or Figueroa. Another possibility is to spend a night at the famous Thermas De Puyuhuapi Spa and Hot springs. We then cross over a spectacular divide through Queualt National Park where we can hike to a hanging glacier. Later in the evening we will stop for the night at a working estancia. And enjoy the warm hospitality of our Chilean hosts. Coyhaique-Cochrane. On this wonderful stretch we explore the shoreline and back roads along the second largest lake in South America. Peaks and glaciers are everywhere! As we continue south the landscape becomes much drier and open. We will spend a night at a fantastic lodge right on the water and hike or fish. Continuing on we come to the Baker River with its beautiful clear water, and if desired, make a half-day trip down the river. After arriving in Cochrane we will explore the surrounding areas. Villa O'Higgins The road to this area opened in September of 1999. It is Patagonia's most remote region accessible by road. There is great hiking, riding and world-class fishing. Coyhaique-Villa O’Higgins The road to this area opened in September of 1999. It is Patagonia’s most remote region accessible by road. There is great hiking, riding and world-class fishing. It is major access point for the Southern Ice fields and an adventurous trail to the Mt. Fitzroy area. Prices per day are included accommodations, transportation, meals, and guide.
The Jeinimeni range of Chilean Patagonia is practically unknown and little explored. Combine this fact with incredible colors, light, geography, and a much drier
The Jeinimeni range of Chilean Patagonia is practically unknown and little explored. Combine this fact with incredible colors, light, geography, and a much drier than usual climate for the area and you have all the ingredients for a very special experience.
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard On this nine-day trip we will see an incredible variety of scenery surrounding the second largest lake in South America. After crossing the lake by ferry we will drive into the Jenemeni range and set up a comfortable base camp by a spectacular mountain lake. From here we will hike and explore a variety of drainageâs and valleys descending from the mountains and glaciers above.The terrain can be rugged and often the trails are little more than an old gaucho track, but the splendid isolation and breathtaking views reward us for the hard work. There is no set itinerary and we can choose from a wide variety of options. On a poor weather day for example, we might depart base camp for lower elevations and explore one of the finest Indian rock art sites in Patagonia. On another we might go fishing on the splendid river of the same name...or move our location to one of the many beautiful campsites. When we leave the Jenemeni we will return to Coyhaique around the lake by one of the most spectacular roads in the world. We make our re-entry to civilization by staying at a wonderful lake side cabin and enjoying a fantastic Patagonia asado and hot showers! Total Trip Time: 9 days (arrival, two travel, six in field)
Includes: Airport Pickup, 2 night lodging Coyhaique, 1 nights lodging Cochrane, 1 night at Lago General Carrera, meals, transportation, guide.
Lago O'Higgins is one of the great lakes of southern Chile, its turquoise waters stretching more than 50 miles from the desert pampa of Argentina (where it is called Lago San Martin)
Accompanied and guided by renowned climber John Bragg, we're going to follow in the footsteps of the first explorers to enter this area, Alberto Agostini and party, to explore the great valleys that lead from the lake's shores up to the Southern Patagonian Icecap, the Campo del Hielo Sur. We'll travel the Carreterra Austral and stay in frontier towns. We'll hitch a ride on La Soberania, the boat that services all the outlying estancias and homesteads that dot the shores of Lago O'Higgins. We'll hike and explore the valleys that lead from the bay of Santa Lucia up to the Patagonia Icecap, and circumnavigate Cerro Peine, passing beneath the great south faces of Los Mellizos. We'll reach and hike along the edge of the great Southern Patagonian Icecap. Perhaps we'll attempt the unclimbed Cerro Indeterminado. We'll hire a local gaucho, Don Jose, to transport our gear to basecamp, and later, experience a traditional Chilean Asado at La Ramona, his estancia. Our plans and itinerary will be completely flexible depending on the abilities and aspirations of our team. But one thing is certain. You'll see country that will amaze you, you'll experience the magic of Patagonia, and you'll have an adventure that you'll never forget. Contact us for complete details and schedule Price: $9500
This trip we will hike with horse support to the base camp of the second highest peak in Patagonia. We will travel with Luis Soto up to his family's farm passing by lakes
This trip we will hike with horse support to the base camp of the second highest peak in Patagonia. We will travel with Luis Soto up to his family's farm passing by lakes, rivers and Southern Beech forests. From his farm, we can take day hikes up to numerous glaciers, explore the beautiful Lenga Forests, trek over high traverses and even climb a non-technical peak. Our daily schedule is flexible, depending on our energy levels and where the group would like to go.
We will travel leisurely for two days to reach the farm. From here, there are many hiking options that vary in length from 2 hours to all day. If it is clear, we can see the magical summit of San Lorenzo. The camp is near treeline. It provides access to various glaciers and affords breathtaking views of the area. There is high potential for alpine mountaineering in this area. We will spend three days near the farm and hike out on the last day. Total Trip Time: 9 days (arrival, two travel days, six days in the field) Difficulty: Moderate (gear and food will be carried by horses) Includes: Airport Pickup, 1 night lodging Coyhaique, 2 nights lodging Cochrane,meals, transportation, guide.
A two-part Photo Safari with landscape photographer, Bill Ellzey. Part 1: Unkown Patagonia, Mid April is the best time of the year for this tour.
Day 1: Arrive at Coyhaique's airport (in the nearby town of Balmaceda) by air from Santiago. Transfer to Coyhaique, the capital of Chilean Patagonia, and our hotel. Evening orientation and welcome dinner.
Day 2: A warm-up day, in the form of a day-trip photo excursion from Coyhaique to one of several remarkable nearby locations — the choice depending in large measure on the intensity of the region's fall colors.
Day 3: Early morning departure for Cerro Castillo and Rio Tranquilo. Cerro Castillo (or Castle Mountain) is one of the most photogenic and spectacular peaks in all of Patagonia. We continue along an impressive river valley, past reminders of a volcanic eruption, and over a mountain pass surrounded by glacier-clad peaks. In the afternoon we drive along the western shore of Lago General Carrera, the second largest lake in South America, to the small town of Puerto Tanquilo.
Day 4: Today we visit and photograph the amazing Cavernas de Mármol (or Marble Caves) one of the strongest and most beautiful natural formations in all of South America. In the afternoon we continue around Lago Carrera, photographing the glaciers above the delta of the Rio Leones beneath Patagoina's highest summit, Cerro San Valentin. After a full day we arrive at the Green Baker Lodge on the banks of the poetic turquoise water of the Rio Baker.
Day 5: Today we photograph along the Rio Baker.The Baker river is known to anglers for its world-class trout fishing, but is irresistible to photographers for its otherworldly blue color. En route to the Chacabuco Valley, site of the future, Patagonia National Park, we visit the spectacular confluence (waterfall and rapids) of the Baker and Nef rivers. Valle Chacabuco is such a rich environment that this day we only begin our photographic exploration of it, returning in the late afternoon to the Green Baker Lodge.
Day 6: This morning we head back into the Chacabuco valley. This valley, part of the last great private ranch or estancia in Patagonia, has recently been purchased by the Patagonia Land Trust and is the core area of a large conservation/park project. The landscape changes dramatically into a series of pampas, grasslands and wetland ponds or mallines. Here we almost always encounter herds of wild guanaco. In the evening we return to Lago General Carrera, and check into Terra Luna, a lovely lakeside lodge near the little town of Puerto Guadal.
Day 7 : After pre-dawn and dawn photography of the high icefield peaks across the lake, we head off to explore the southern shoreline of Lago Carrera: plunging cliffs, transparent turquoise water, enchanting fundos (farms) tributary rivers and deep red autumn trees provide constantly varying photographic stimulation. Lodging at Terra Luna.
Day 8: Return by road to Coyhaique, photographing the Rio Murta valley, the beautiful Rio Cajon or Box River, a valley of dead trees smothered by ash and lava from Volcán Hudson, and final evening photo opportunities around Cerro Castillo before reaching Coyhaique for a gala farewell-to-Coyhaique dinner.
Day 9: Departure from Coyhaique for home. Or, for those continuing on with Part Two of our Patagonian Safari, a travel day to Punta Arenas... See the section below.
- Internationally known landscape photographer Linde Waidhofer writes: "I first saw Patagonia in autumn, and immediately found it to be one of the most exciting photo destinations of a lifetime. My friends, Cado Avenali and his Chilean wife, Ruth Cohen, the founders of Salvaje Corazon, the Patagonia Guide Service, are themselves gifted photographers. They took us to their favorite locations, the best places in the best light. They opened the doors to secret Patagonia. And they are still opening these same doors for other photographers and for all their guests... For six years I worked with Cado and Ruth, developing and perfecting an annual autumn Photo Safari. Now they are offering a variety of photo tours throughout the year..." Photographing in Patagonia, has been a life-changing experience for me. It will be for you too. Linde W.
Torres Del Paine & the Glaciers of the Far South
Day 1: Transportation and arrival day. Some participants may be heading home from part I of this trip. Those joining us for both parts of this Patagonian adventure will fly south, to Punta Arenas, the capital of Chile's 12th region, right next to the Straits of Magellan and Tierra del Fuego. And those photographers who are only participating in this segment, will join us in the evening in Punta Arenas
Day 2: From Punta Arenas we drive north by van, pausing for a fresh seafood lunch in Puerto Natales, to arrive at the Torres del Paine in the afternoon.. Check into the Hosteria Pehoe, a classic hotel on a small island (reached by a footbridge) in Lago Pehoe, directly beneath the Cuernos or "Horns" of Paine
Day 3:Our day begins with a dawn shoot of the Horns or Cuernos, directly across the lake from our hotel. After breakfast, we head off by van to explore the center of the national park. We will spend a second night at the Hosteria Pehoe.
Day 4: Another day devoted to the spectacular peaks and lakes near Lago Pehoe. In the evening we drive to a new inn, the Hosteria Grey on the shores of Lago Grey.
Day 5: We focus on the floating icebergs or "témpanos" in Lago Grey; a boat excursion to the face of the giant glacier feeding this lake takes us right beneath the blue cliffs of thousand-year-old ice. We spend a second night at the Hosteria Grey.
Day 6: Today, we once more change our base of operations, moving to the other side of the park, an area well known for its wildlife, especially guanacos and foxes that often seem to want to pose just beneath the most dramatic peaks. We spend the night at the Hosteria Los Torres.
Day 7: After a final dawn shoot, we pack up and head for Punta Arenas. An all-day trip to be sure, with more opportunities to photograph on the shores of Bitter Lake (Lago Amargo) as well as abundant wildlife, birds and dramatic beech forests en route to Punta Arenas
Day 8: Departure by air from Punta Arenas.
- These Patagonia Spring photo safaris are limited to a maximum of eight participants. (Other photo tours to this part of the world set their group size at 14!) But the downside of limiting the size of our group is that we will need at least four participants for each segment to cover our expenses. In the past, we have always had enough signups; but in the unlikely event that these photo safaris don't "make" we will gladly refund your deposit. Participants will be responsible for arranging their own flights from the US to Santiago Chile, as well as their on-going domestic air reservations, continuing south to Patagonia. Once in Patagonia, all your expenses on the ground are included.
Because this photo trip is such a major commitment, we would like to encourage interested photographers to contact us directly for more detailed information. Reservations: A deposit of $600 is needed to reserve your place in this limited-participant trip, with the balance due 60 days before the trip starts. Please send your check for the trip deposit to, Bill, Ellzey, the trip photography leader. His address is: Bill Ellzey Photography Patagonia Photo Safaris Box 362, Crestone CO 81131 Cancellation Policy: We can refund your deposit if you have to change your plans, up to two months before the trip. However, local Chilean business practices require a payment in full of all lodging reservations, at least 30 days ahead of one's stay, therefore we won't be able to refund your deposit, or your trip payment if you need to cancel within 6 weeks of the trip date. For this reason, we strongly advise purchasing "trip insurance" from your travel agent. To arrange your flight to and from Chile and Patagonia, we can recommend our own travel agent, Marcelo Diaz of America's Travel in San Francisco. He specializes in trips to South America and has always been able to get us great connections and great prices. Marcelo's toll free phone is 1 888 703 9955
Day 1: Arrive Balmaceda airport from Santiago, airport pickup, transfer to a lakeside lodge on Lago Carrera stopping frequently to photograph the amazing scenery and to stretch our legs.
Day 1: Arrive Balmaceda airport from Santiago, airport pickup, transfer to a lakeside lodge on Lago Carrera stopping frequently to photograph the amazing scenery and to stretch our legs. In the evening your guides will discuss the next days possibilities and formulate a plan.
Day 2: Today we might rise early for a dawn shoot followed by breakfast and then head out to begin the days agenda. We spend another evening in the lakeside lodge.
Possible subjects include ice clad mountains, waterfalls, native forests, wildlife, and incredible rivers
Day 3: After breakfast we’ll head south to the cowboy town of Cochrane and at some point during the day visit the spectacular Chacabucco Valley and it’s unique wildlife And classic Patagonia landscape. We’ll spend the night along the shores of the Baker River.
Day 4: Return To Coyhaique-Balmaceda airport for onward travel.
Includes: Ground transportation, guides, lodging, all meals, and wine.
Duration: 7 days – 6 nights
Day 1: Arrive Balmaceda and check into a comfortable hotel | Day 2: Today we’ll explore the local area surrounding Coyhaique | Day 3: Lago Carrera | Day 4: Cochrane | Day 5: Lago Carrera | Day 6: Lago Carrera | Day 7: Return to Coyhaique
Includes: Ground transportation, guides, lodging, all meals, and wine. Minimum group size: 3 participants
We begin the trip in Coyhaique and work our way south on the Carretera Austral in Chile; then across the border and along the famous Ruta 40 in Argentina.
Day 1: Arrive Balmaceda and check into a comfortable hotel | Day 2: Today we’ll explore the local area surrounding Coyhaique | Day 3: Lago Carrera | Day 4: Lago Carrera | Day 5: Baja Caracoles or Perito Moreno | Day 6: Cuevo de los Manos, La Oriental | Day 7: La Oriental | Day 8: El Chalten and the Fitzroy | Day 9: Fitzroy | Day 10: El Calafete | Day 11: Fly To Buenos Aires and Home | Includes: Ground transportation, guides, lodging, all meals, and wine.
- When you return home from this excursion you will have seen, photographed, and experienced the major wild and enchanting locations Patagonia has to offer. The northern and southern icefields, wild rivers and distant estancias in a rarely visited and incredible settings, Mount Fitzroy in Glaciers National Park, the Torres del Paine and Perito Moreno Glacier among others. While not exactly a backcountry adventure, part of this trip will take you far from the beaten path . And this is perhaps a bit more physically demanding than our other photography trips.
An angler’s paradise filled with world class trout streams…
Day 1: Arrival in Santiago where you will be greeted at the airport and taken to your comfortable hotel in one of Santiago’s nicest neighborhoods. Welcome dinner and evening review of program.
Day 2: Prepare for your week of fly-fishing with a relaxing day of sight seeing in Chile’s capital and a visit to one of Chile’s famous wineries.
Day 3: Early morning flight to Balmaceda where you will be met by our fishing guides. If desired, you can fish in the afternoon on the way from the airport to the hotel. In Coyhaique, we will check you into the best accommodations in town, the cozy Belisario Jara hotel, where you will be based for the next four nights.
Days 4 - 7: The days will be spent fishing on one of the great rivers in the Coyhaique area. Each day’s itinerary will be planned the previous evening with your fishing guide so you will know where you will fish and the appropriate gear to bring. These planning sessions will take place at one of the fine restaurants in Coyhaique.
Day 8: Departure from Coyhaique to the Balmaceda Airport for your flight home.
Optional Baker River Extension: A trip to the Baker River, five hours south of Coyhaique, takes you down the Carretera Austral and around Lago General Carrera through some of the most beautiful and untouched lands of Patagonia. The Baker River is well-known for its large rainbows.
Day 8: Departure from Coyhaique for the Patagonia Baker Lodge on the banks of the Baker River where we will stay for the next three nights. Aside from the magnificent setting, the lodge is also well-know for its gourmet food and hospitality. After check-in, there will be time for early evening fishing. Days 9 and 10: In addition to the Baker River, fishing options include the Cochrane River and lake fishing on Lago General Carrera. Day 11: Early morning fishing on the Baker River and in the late morning we will depart for Coyhaique. Day 12: Departure from Coyhaique to the Balmaceda Airport for your flight home.
In addition to our scheduled programs,we offer a variety of original and custom fishing experiences to suit your particular interests and time frame.
In addition to our scheduled programs,we offer a variety of original and custom fishing experiences to suit your particular interests and time frame. From stays based in some of the most beautiful lodges in the region to nomadic fishing designed to take advantage of the best weather and fishing opportunities throughout Chile and Argentina , Salvaje Corazon's Patagonia Guide Service will show you the best the region has to offer. For a custom trip proposal send us an e-mail with a description of the experience you are looking for, time frame, and number in your party. Prices start from $450 a day per person including guide, lodging, transportation and meals. (Our guide to client ratio is 1:2) We also offer any number of other activities for the non-fishing members of your group that include rafting, kayaking, horseback riding, hiking, or sightseeing to some of the most spectacular places the area has to offer.
Day 1: Arrival in Santiago / City Tour / Wine Tasting Dinner. Your English-speaking guide will meet you at the airport and accompany you to the Santiago Ritz Carlton Hotel.
Day 1: Arrival in Santiago / City Tour / Wine Tasting Dinner. Your English-speaking guide will meet you at the airport and accompany you to the Santiago Ritz Carlton Hotel. In the afternoon, there will be a guided city tour where you will see the best of the historical and cultural highlights in South America’s most modern city. The evening will include a wine tasting dinner, hosted by a Chilean wine expert, at one of Santiago’s best restaurants. Day 2: Maipo Valley. We will travel south one hour to the Maipo Valley. Home to Chile’s oldest names in wine, the Maipo Valley is world-renowned for its Cabernets. We will visit Santa Rita and enjoy a delicious lunch at in the Doña Paula restaurant. Following our lunch, we will visit Viña Perez Cruz. Tonight we will stay at the Casa Real. Built in the 1880s, the Casa Real has been converted to a luxury country hotel. Here we will enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by their excellent staff. Day 3: Santa Cruz and the Colchagua Valley. We will drive one and a half hours south to the Colchagua Valley where our first stop will be Viña Viu Manent for a visit and private wine tasting. We will check into the famous Santa Cruz Plaza Hotel and enjoy a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, we will visit the Colchagua Museum with one of the best private collections of pre-Columbian artifacts in South America. The evening is extra special with an exquisite dinner at the “Colchagua Castle” in complete medieval ambience. Day 4: Santa Cruz and the Colchagua Valley. Today we will visit Viña Mont Gras and tour their mountain top vineyards of Ninquen where we will enjoy a typical Chilean asado lunch. We will then tour the Mont Gras facilities and taste several of their wines. In the late afternoon, we will visit the Montes winery. Tonight we will have a relaxing dinner at the Santa Cruz Plaza Hotel. Day 5: Los Lingues and the Cachapoal Valley. We will depart from the Santa Cruz Plaza Hotel and travel one hour north to the Cachapoal valley and Hacienda Los Lingues. We will enjoy lunch at the Hacienda and the afternoon can be spent enjoying the activities available at Los Lingues such as horseback riding, fly-fishing in their private pond or relaxing by the pool. For those interested, there is also the option to visit Viña Gracia in the Cachapoal Valley. Day 6: Aconcagua Valley. North of Santiago, in the Aconcagua Valley, is one of Chile’s most beautiful wineries, Viña Errazuriz. We will tour the winery and taste some of their wines. After our winery visit, we will travel toward the Andes and check into the Casa San Regis, a 1756 colonial hacienda. You can relax and enjoy the afternoon in the cozy surroundings or take an optional tour of Viña San Esteban, a small winery nearby. Dinner will be at the local Petit France Restaurant. Day 7: Casablanca Valley. We will drive two hours south to the Casablanca Valley. West of Santiago, this valley is known for producing some of Chile’s top white wines. We will tour the Veramonte Winery and then travel to the House of Morande Restaurant for lunch. In the afternoon, we will return to Santiago and check-into the Ritz Carlton Hotel. Dinner is on your own this evening. Day 8: Santiago and Departure. Today is a relaxing day in Santiago before your evening departure. In the afternoon, you will have the option to visit the Los Dominicos market. In an old adobe mission, the 180+ shops provide the perfect place to find unique Chilean handicrafts.
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With the Andes Mountains as a backdrop, one of Chile’s undeniable attractions is its spectacular wine regions which produce some of the world’s best wines. This eight-day tour will expose travelers to the best of Chile’s wine country. Exploring the major wine regions, you will visit historic wineries that have been producing wines for more than a century as well as ultra-modern boutiques. You will experience the Manhattan of South America in Chile’s capital of Santiago – the locals call it “Sanhattan” – as well as the rural life of the “campo” where life continues as it has for the last several hundred years. Your exposure to Chilean wines and culture comes paired with a week of outstanding gourmet foods. Included with this trip: Eight days / seven nights guided tour from Santiago, Chile Five unique luxury accommodations Nine winery visits with wine tastings Six gourmet dinners including a welcome dinner with a wine tasting seminar hosted by a professional sommelier All breakfasts and lunches including four gourmet winery luncheons Historical and cultural city tour of Santiago Visit to the fascinating Colchagua Museum Visit to a Chilean artisan market Optional activities such as horseback riding, fly- fishing and spa treatments Bilingual tour guide who will accompany you throughout the week All transportation in private spacious vehicles Intimate experience with a maximum group size of six persons An unforgettable experience surrounded by the spectacular scenery of Chile.
Photos Courtesy of Justin Black and Jay Smith Justin Black