Chile·8 - 15 November 2024

Chilean Odyssey: Santiago, Patagonia & Wine Country

“If you don’t climb the mountain, you’ll never enjoy the view.” – Pablo Neruda

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Overview

Chile is a land of contrasts. Home to the driest desert in the world and inverted frozen waterfalls and glaciers in Patagonia, the southernmost part of the Americas. Chile is the ninth-largest wine producer worldwide. Europeans and locals produce spectacular wines in the region. Chile boasts impressive mountain peaks, world-class skiing, and over 2,500 miles of coastline. The Nobel Prize-winning poet and politician Pablo Neruda was born and lived much of his life here. On our tour, we’ll explore Santiago's historical monuments and museums. Then, we’ll head west to the seaside city of Valparaiso, where Neruda made his home. We’ll also spend two days in Chile’s famous wine country at a biodynamic winery and historic boutique hotel. Plus, we'll visit the first Chilean female winemaker and winery owner, sampling traditional Chilean specialties along the way. Then, we’ll fly down to the dramatic, otherworldly Patagonia to explore the Torres del Paine National Park and soak in the majesty of snow-covered mountain peaks. We’ll marvel at Mother Nature as we visit frozen waterfalls, hidden lagoons, lakes, glaciers, and caves. We’ll get out on the water and venture close to the Grey Glacier front wall, a huge natural wonder. Part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, this is the world’s second-largest ice field, covering more than 4,000 square miles. Each evening during your Chilean adventure, you’ll feast on meals thoughtfully prepared using local products. Then, you’ll lay your head down to rest at exceptional hotels after a full and exciting day. Why don’t you join us?

Highlights

Explore the Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art

Explore the Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art

Photograph glaciers, lakes, and mountains in Torres del Paine National Park

Photograph glaciers, lakes, and mountains in Torres del Paine National Park

Take an exhilarating boat ride to the Grey Glacier

Take an exhilarating boat ride to the Grey Glacier

Savor delicious wine tastings in the Leyda Valley region

Savor delicious wine tastings in the Leyda Valley region

Visit Valparaiso, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Visit Valparaiso, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Discover the Garden City of Viña del Mar

Discover the Garden City of Viña del Mar

Itinerary

Here's a day-by-day itinerary of the trip

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Santiago

Day 1: Friday, November 8th, 2024

Arrive at Santiago International Airport in the morning. Our representative will meet you at the airport and take you to Hotel Magnolia, near the Lastarria neighborhood in downtown Santiago. You can also arrive a day or two early. See below to book your extra night(s). 

In the afternoon, we'll embark on the “Santiago Autóctono - like a native” tour,  a great journey that will take us to the heart of the Chilean capital.

We'll take the Metro to Universidad de Chile station and then see Alameda, Santiago's main avenue. We'll find the iconic Central House of the University of Chile to the south, while to the north lies Paseo Ahumada, Santiago's commercial epicenter. 

From there, we'll see iconic buildings like the Government Palace, La Moneda, and the Stock Exchange, then head to the traditional Plaza de Armas, where the Cathedral of Santiago is located.

We'll visit the Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art. This important museum has a collection spanning 4,500 years housed in the former Royal Customs Palace. 

To finish our city tour, we'll catch the breathtaking panoramic view from the top of Cerro San Cristóbal. It's a sight that will leave you awestruck. You're about to develop a new appreciation for the beauty of this stunning metropolis.

We'll enjoy a delicious dinner at Restaurante Mestizo before returning to the hotel. 

Included

Dinner

Not Included

Lunch

Breakfast

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Valparaíso – Viña del Mar

Day 2: Saturday, November 9th, 2024

After breakfast, we'll set off from Santiago on Route 68 to Valparaiso, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our adventure begins at Plaza Aníbal Pinto, where we'll visit La Sebastiana, the house-museum of Pablo Neruda. 

We'll hop onto the famous El Peral funicular to explore the Alegre and Concepción hills. As we stroll along the streets and climb steps, we'll find breathtaking viewpoints across the city. The tour wraps up at Paseo 21 de Mayo.

We'll enjoy lunch at the Verso restaurant (or a similar spot), taking in the beautiful bay view.

Next, we'll head to Viña del Mar, known as the "Garden City" for its lovely parks, gardens, and beaches. We'll see the iconic flower clock and enjoy the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Our journey continues to Lo Abarca, where we'll visit Casa Marín winery. We'll tour the vineyard, see the soil and solar panels, and taste four wines paired with bread and nuts.

We'll return to our hotel in Santiago. You'll have the evening free to explore the local dining scene and enjoy dinner at your leisure.

Included

All meals

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Maipo Valley

Day 3: Sunday, November 10th, 2024

We'll depart for Santa Rita Vineyard in the Maipo Valley, about an hour south of Santiago. This region is known for its excellent wines, especially reds like Cabernet Sauvignon, Carménère, and Merlot.

We'll start with a tour of Santa Rita's Centenary Park, a beautiful French-style enclave from the late 17th century. You'll see the largest bougainvillea in South America and various native trees. Then, we'll head to the winery to learn about its production techniques, fascinating history, and the legend of "The 120." We'll finish with a tasting of two Reserva wines and one Gran Reserva.

Next, we'll visit the Andean Museum, housing around 3,000 archaeological and ethnographic pieces from the pre-Columbian peoples of the region.

We'll have lunch at Doña Paula restaurant in the vineyard, paired with Santa Rita wines.

After lunch, we'll head to Concha y Toro, one of the most famous vineyards in the Maipo Valley. We'll explore the grape fields, learn about the cultivation and harvest methods, and see the wine-making process from fermentation to aging. We'll savor each wine's flavors, aromas, and characteristics in a guided wine tasting.

We'll return to the hotel in Santiago for the night. You'll have the evening free to explore the local dining scene and enjoy dinner at your leisure.

Included

Wine Tasting & Tours

Breakfast - Lunch

Not Included

Dinner

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Puerto Natales

Day 4: Monday, November 11th, 2024

Start your day with a delicious breakfast. At the appointed time, we'll transfer to the airport to board a flight to Puerto Natales. A local guide will escort us from the airport to the Remota Patagonia Lodge.

After checking in, we'll indulge in lunch at the hotel. The afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace. You can choose to wander through the streets of Puerto Natales or unwind and enjoy the hotel's ambiance. Why not book a spa treatment at the hotel at an additional cost? We can book it for you.

As the sun sets, gather for a delightful dinner at the hotel, where you can savor the flavors of a memorable culinary experience.

Included

All meals

Flights

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Torres del Paine

Day 5: Tuesday, November 12th, 2024

Today, we'll start early after a hearty breakfast at the hotel. You'll need a good breakfast to give you the energy for an unforgettable adventure.

At 8 am, our overland journey begins by van, traversing the scenic roads that lead to a majestic natural sanctuary. En route to Torres del Paine National Park, we'll stop briefly at the Mylodon Cave, a designated Natural Monument that holds the fascinating remains of a prehistoric ground sloth, the Mylodon. 

As we enter the national park, you'll be awestruck by the towering Andean massif, its jagged peaks piercing the sky. It's a sight that leaves an indelible impression on every visitor. The park's breathtaking landscapes encompass glaciers, waterfalls, and serene lakes, including the mesmerizing Pehoé, Nordenskjöld, and Sarmiento.

Amidst this captivating scenery, we'll pause for a delightful lunch at a local restaurant. 

After lunch, we'll continue to explore the heart of Torres del Paine. As the day draws to a close, we'll arrive at our hotel in the park. 

Our lodging for the evening is the Lago Grey Hotel, a charming establishment that promises breathtaking views. Tonight, we'll savor a delicious dinner at the hotel restaurant and relax as we reflect on the day's events. Drift off to sleep with the sounds of nature, and look forward to the adventures that await you tomorrow.

Included

All meals

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Puerto Natales

Day 6: Wednesday, November 13th, 2024

Indulge in a delicious breakfast at the lodge before the unforgettable expedition to the Grey Glacier in the heart of Torres del Paine National Park. 

We'll start the day with a scenic walk along Grey Beach, leading to the ferry that will transport you to this awe-inspiring natural wonder.

Stunning landscapes surround us on the one-hour ferry ride. Witness the glacier's immense 25-meter height, mesmerizing colors and shapes, and the mysterious sounds from its depths. It's a spectacle of nature's raw power.

As we sail along the glacier's front, we'll try a refreshing drink made with ice from the glacier. The Grey II, a vessel designed for this excursion, offers comfort for 50 passengers with large windows, a heated interior, and passenger bathrooms.

Step onto the deck to capture spectacular photographs, and rely on our experienced guides and crew to provide expert insights and personalized attention throughout this spectacular journey.

We'll savor a delicious lunch at Lago Grey restaurant on our return to the pier before continuing our exploration of Torres del Paine National Park in the afternoon. We'll leave the national park and return to Puerto Natales by 6:00 pm. 

Tonight, after a big day, please enjoy dinner at your leisure and reflect on the amazing experiences at Torres del Paine National Park.

Included

Breaksfast

Lunch

Not Included

Dinner

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Santiago

Day 7: Thursday, November 14th, 2024

Nurture yourself with a lovely breakfast after packing up for departure. At the designated time, your transfer will whisk you to the airport, where you will board your flight back to Santiago.

Upon arrival in Santiago, we'll transfer to the hotel. Settle in and relax after the journey.

As the sun descends, we'll gather for a memorable farewell dinner at Quitral Restaurant, a haven of culinary excellence. Let Chilean cuisine's rich flavors transport you to a world of refined elegance, a fitting finale to your unforgettable adventure.

Rest and reflect on the cherished memories of your journey, as you prepare to depart from Chile.

Included

Breakfast

Dinner

Local Flights

Not Included

Lunch

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Santiago

Day 8: Friday, November 15th, 2024

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel. At the scheduled time, we'll transfer to Santiago airport for your flight home. As we say goodbye to Chile, take with you the memories of our unforgettable journey together. 

Included

Breakfast

Dinner

Not Included

Lunch

You'll Be Staying Here

Hotel Magnolia Santiago

Hotel Magnolia Santiago

Hotel Magnolia Santiago is a designer hotel with elegantly decorated accommodations and the highest comfort in a heritage-preserved mansion.

Remota Patagonia Lodge

Remota Patagonia Lodge

The Remota Lodgea world-class refuge in vast Patagonia with a privileged sea view is one kilometer from Puerto Natales. It was designed by the architect Germán del Sol, who was inspired by the quila sheds typical of Chilean Patagonia.

Hotel Lago Grey

Hotel Lago Grey

The Hotel Lago Grey on Grey Lake is surrounded by a crystal-clear glacier, granite mountain peaks, forests, and rivers, making it the perfect location for a Torres del Paine National Park getaway.

Hosts

Doni Belau

Doni Belau

Doni is the owner and founder of Girls' Guide to the World and she only picks a few trips to do each year. She has traveled to 80 countries and counting. Her favorite thing about guiding tours is meeting the amazing women who join her. Exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Chile with her is a unique experience. 

 

Add Ons

Arrive one day early in Santiago

Arrive one day early in Santiago

Includes one night and breakfast at the Hotel Magnolia

PRICE$425.00

Chile, un país con sabor a vino

Chile: Santiago and Patagonia

Discover Santiago's vibrant culture and Patagonia's natural beauty. Immerse yourself in Chile's rich history, culture, and wildlife. Savor the local wine and embrace the region's unique charm.

Chile: Santiago and Patagonia

What's Included

What's Included

Expert guides and trip leaders

All transportation during the trip (except where indicated)

Accommodations at unique hotels and lodges

All meals (except where indicated), including beer & wine with dinner

Entrances to national reserves and parks

All wine tastings

In country flights

Additional wine, beer, and/or spirits beyond what’s offered at meals

All personal souvenirs

Travel and medical insurance (required)

Any spa treatment desired

Round-trip airfare to Santiago del Chile

Reviews

What an amazing adventure! This was a perfect blend of city life and stunningly beautiful outdoors. One of the best aspects of this trip was that it was surprisingly accessible. I've always wanted to go to Patagonia but was intimidated by the extremely physical itineraries. This was a more relaxed adventure and I was able to enjoy the stunning scenery without any concerns of it being too strenuous. If you're looking for a trip that combines city life with stunning natural wonders in remote locations, this is the perfect trip.

2024 Trip Participant

FAQs

Fly into the Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL), also known as Santiago International Airport in north-west of central Santiago.

The trip will commence on the afternoon of November 8th. You can either arrive in Santiago del Chile on the morning of the 8th or plan to arrive a day or two early. In case you choose to come early you can book your extra night directly on the website. See our Add On section above. 

We will have a Zoom call about 6 weeks before the trip starts to discuss all that information and give you a packing list. Here is a great website that we love that will help you with packing and travel trips.

Your host for this trip is Doni Belau owners and visionary of Girls Guide to the World.  

Overall, November is a great time to visit Chile, as the weather is generally pleasant and there are fewer crowds than in the summer months. However, it is important to be prepared for a wide range of temperatures. 


Santiago: The average temperature in Santiago in November is 25°C (77°F), with highs of around 29°C (84°F) and lows of around 12°C (54°F). 


Valparaíso: The average temperature in Valparaíso in November is 17°C (63°F), with highs of around 20°C (68°F) and lows of around 14°C (57°F). 


Puerto Natales: The average temperature in Puerto Natales in November is 9°C (48°F), with highs of around 12°C (54°F) and lows of around 6°C (43°F). 

Inquire about this trip

Chilean Odyssey: Santiago, Patagonia & Wine Country

Chile· 8 - 15 November 2024· 7 nights