Explore the unique and contrasting panoramas and wildlife of the north and south of Chile.
From the lunar landscapes of the Atacama Desert in the north, to the incomparable splendour of the granite peaks of Torres del Paine in Chilean Patagonia in the south, the extremes of Chile are staggering, not only in their diversity, but also by their overwhelming beauty. The addition of Lauca National Park (not a usual stop on a Chilean itinerary, but more than worthwhile for any lover of nature and wildlife) to this already rich mix of experiences, adds the final touch.
On arrival at Santiago airport, you will be met and transferred to your accommodation. In the afternoon you will join a scheduled city tour of Santiago.
Accommodation: Plaza El Bosque San Sebastian, 1-night
Transfer back to the airport for a domestic flight to Calama. On arrival at Calama you will be transferred to your accommodation to freshen up and then enjoy lunch (own expense) at a local restaurant in San Pedro de Atacama.
In the afternoon enjoy an excursion to Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley), located 13 kilometres west of San Pedro in the Salt Mountain Range. The valley has beautifully strange lunar landscapes and is considered one of the driest places on the planet.
Accommodation: Hotel Kimal. 3-nights
The very early wake-up call will be well worth it when you arrive at the amazing Tatio Geysers and see them in action. From almost 900 metres below the earth, boiling steam bursts up to 40 metres over the surface of these spectacular geysers. Breakfast will be served on arrival before you walk through the geothermal fields with the geysers erupting nearby. As you drive back, there is a magnificent view of the Tocopurri and Sairecabur volcanoes. Arrive back in San Pedro in time to have lunch and the afternoon will be free to rest after the early start, high altitude and low temperature faced in the morning.
Today you'll take an excursion to the Altiplano lagoons of Miscanti and Meñique, located 4,500m above sea level, where you will be able to see unique flora and fauna. Included is lunch in the town of Socaire, where old Andean traditions still exist today.
Today you drive to Calama, then board a flight to Arica and head to Putre,a drive of approximately two hours, where you overnight. On your way you visit the fertile oasis of Azapa Valley, known for its unique type of purple olives, and the archeological museum.
Accommodation: Terrace Lodge, 1-night
Today you explore Lauca National Park and Chungara lake with your expert guide. Look out for the typical vicuna, guanaco, alpaca, together with their predators, as you visit the reserve. In the afternoon you return to Arica for the night.
Accommodation: Hotel Casa Beltran, 1-night
Drive back to Arica and fly via Santiago to Punta Arenas, considered the world's most southern city before the growth of smaller towns like Ushuaia, Argentina.
Accommodation: Hotel Rey Don Felipe, 1-night
Transfer to Torres del Paine National Park via Puerto Natales, where there will be a brief stop for lunch and a visit to Cueva del Milodon (mammoth cave). From Puerto Natales you will join a scheduled transfer in the afternoon to Torres del Paine. The total drive is around 330 kilometres (approximately five hours).
Accommodation: EcoCamp Patagonia, 3-nights
Retracing your journey, return to Punta Arenas for an overnight stay.
Accommodation: Hotel Rey Don Felipe, 1-night
This morning fly back to Santiago for your last night in Chile.
Accommodation: Plaza El Bosque San Sebastian, 1-night
Transfer to the airport for an overnight flight back to the UK.
Chile’s northern desert comprises virtually lifeless coastal plains divided by dramatic deep gorges, while further east the barren landscape changes as it rises through the Andes. The altiplano is an impressive expanse of alluvial salt flat edged by snow-capped volcanic peaks, home to a surprising variety of wildlife. Find Out More about {acc:title}
Chilean Patagonia’s premier attraction is a scenic mix of craggy peaks, glacial lakes, icefields and green valleys – a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The omnipresent Paine Massif, a magnificent set of rocky spires formed from granite and sedimentary rock, dominates the landscape. Find Out More about {acc:title}
This spectacular northern area of dry, high altitude grassland plain and giant volcanoes supports many plants and a few mammals. Temperatures oscillate between -10°C at night and 20°C by day, and rainfall here is rare. This is one of the best parks in Chile for birding, with many species living around the lakes. Find Out More about {acc:title}
Chile’s capital and its largest city is located in the central valley, with the snow-capped Andes to the east, and the coastal range to the west. A lively and dynamic place, it is one of Latin America’s most sophisticated locations, and there is lots to see in the city and surrounding Andes. Find Out More about {acc:title}
Designed to withstand the elements of the Patagonian wilderness and minimise environmental impact, EcoCamp Patagonia is an innovative complex of geodesic dome tents on wooden platforms. The accommodation is warm and comfortable and offers a perfect compromise between a hotel and camping. Find Out More about EcoCamp Patagonia
British Travel Awards
Awarded Silver in Favourite Tour Operator for Nature & Wildlife 2024 & 2025
Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards
Awarded Bronze in Best Travel Company for Wildlife & Nature Holidays 2024
