Exploring Chile
Chile promises epic experiences thanks to the wildly different landscapes encompassed within its borders: to its north the Atacama Desert, the driest desert in the world, and to its south Patagonia, which features spectacular mountains, glaciers, and crystalline blue lakes. On the long trip down this slender land, one can also find the capital city of Santiago with its striking mountain views.
Stretching from Antarctica to the tropics, Chile covers just about every climate and biome that exists on Earth. The whole country is like a living nature documentary from the soaring Andes Mountains all the way down to Chilean Patagonia, offering some of the most striking natural wonders on the planet. Back in the cities, the avant-garde vibe that inspired the poetry is still tangible in colorful street scenes, inescapable art, and pioneering restaurants.
Nov. 26–29 | Atacama Desert
- Nayara Alto Atacama (3 nights)
Nov. 29 – Dec. 1 | Santiago
- Casa Bueras Boutique (2 nights)
Dec. 1–5 | Patagonia
- EcoCamp (4 nights)
Dec. 5–6 | Punta Arenas
- La Yegua Loca (1 night)
Dec. 6–9 | Wine Country
- Viña VIK (3 nights)
Dec. 9 | Departure
Marking the beginning of summer in the southern hemisphere, November/December are the best months to visit Chile. In Santiago, you'll enjoy sunny days rarely falling below 73°F or exceeding 91°F. In the Atacama, high temperatures are around 79°F, rarely falling below 75°F or exceeding 84°F. In Torres del Paine, the average minimum temperature can reach 44°F at night. December is a dry month so you're in luck!
- A tourist visa is not needed for Chile if you have a passport from the United States.
Take a look at our top recommendations on how to fully immerse yourself into your trip before and during your travels. You'll find:
- Tipping Guidelines
- Packing Tips
- Movies to Watch and Books to Read
- Traditional Chilean Dishes
- Useful Spanish Phrases
- and more!
Welcome to Chile! After arrival in Santiago, you'll self-transfer within the airport to catch your departing flight to Calama in the north.
You will be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel near San Pedro de Atacama, in the Atacama Desert.
This is a shared transfer with other guests.
Travel Time: About 1 hour
Booked by Scenset
This isn’t a different planet, although no one would blame you for believing that since the landscapes of northern Chile’s Atacama Desert look like nothing from this world. Martian-red mountains and lunar salt flats dominate the arid terrain, where life thrives despite the extreme conditions (just look at ancestral settlements or grazing flamingos). But you’ll truly feel in the cosmos come nighttime when the sky lights up with far-off stars and galaxies.
Arrival at your luxury lodge, surrounded by spectacular rock formations. After settling into your accommodations, relax at leisure as you recuperate from your journey by one of the many pools. We recommend rejuvenating spa treatments.
Why we love it for you: The adobe walls and plunge pools appear like a mirage in the desert, which is an indicator for the unreal experience that awaits. Suites overlook the lunar landscape, the kitchen embraces local ingredients, and geothermal spa treatments pamper the body between excursions, which are a specialty. On-site botanists, astronomers, and conservationists are your guides to appreciating this mystical land.
Nayara Alto Atacama
Catarpe King
- All meals & drinks included
During your time in the Atacama Desert, enjoy a wide variety of activities depending on your interest. You can choose your own adventure once you're there, and all of your activities are included. Here are our top recommendations.
Begin with a brief visit to a small village where you will see a historic church and square established in colonial times. Stop by the home of a family that sells and makes local crafts. Later, continue on to the National Flamingo Reserve in the Atacama salt flat. Along the way, take in the spectacular scenery of snowcapped volcanoes and dry valleys. Once at the Flamingo Reserve, your expert guide will point out the three types of flamingos to be found here. Enjoy refreshments with views of the setting sun over the Andes.
Included with your itinerary on a small group basis.
Hike to Devil's Canyon and to the village of Vilama with your expert guide. Depart the hotel by vehicle and head to Devil’s Canyon to start the trek. The altitude here is approx. 2,450m/8,038ft. You’ll hike on flat terrain for about an hour on a dry river bed through formations of limestone which are part of the Salt Mountain Range. Continue along an ancient caravan route, passing by petroglyphs that show the former commercial activity in the area and finish at the old settlement known as Vilama. Return to the hotel by vehicle.
Level: Medium
Duration: 2.5 - 3.5 hours
Included with your itinerary on a small group basis.
At dawn, depart the hotel with your expert guide for a once in a lifetime experience: Sunrise at the Tatio Geysers. These incredible natural wonders are located at an altitude of 4,300m/14,190ft. The geothermal field has close links to the volcanic activity in the zone and consists of huge steam columns that reach heights of 12m/40ft. Reach the geysers in time for breakfast as dawn breaks, with rays of sunlight shining through the steam. Walk along the plateau to get different angles of the geysers and to see fascinating mineral formations.
Level: Easy
Duration: 7 hours
Included with your itinerary on a small group basis.
Learn about the indigenous cosmo-vision and the constellations of the llama and the fox, among others from the hotel’s observatory. You will be able to view the rings of Saturn, the craters of the moon, nebulas and supernovas, depending on the phase of the moon.
Your stay is just a few days before the new moon—perfect conditions for stargazing!
Included with your itinerary on a small group basis.
Nayara Alto Atacama
Catarpe King
- All meals & drinks included
Sipping on a pisco sour in a trendy cocktail bar or stumbling upon a hidden garden patio off a busy boulevard, it’s jarring to remember that democracy is still considered recent history in Santiago. The city has modernized into one of Latin America’s hottest hubs without losing the colonial charm of its historic center. But what truly makes Santiago special is what’s right at its doorstep: the Andes Mountains, the Maipo Wine Valley, and the Pacific Ocean beaches.
You'll be picked up from your hotel to catch your flight to Santiago.
This is a shared transfer with other guests.
Travel Time: About 1 hour
Booked by Scenset
Arrival at Santiago International Airport. A representative will greet you at the arrivals terminal and you'll be transferred to your hotel.
Booked by Scenset
A journey to the senses, this wine bar & restaurant offers pairing with all their meals giving its name, “Mouth-nose”. The menu is designed as a map of flavors with each dish perfectly created to bring out the best of its wine pairing. The magazine Wine Spectator has nominated Bocanariz’s wine menu as one of the best in the world for six years running. If you’re a wine lover, this one is a must.
- Reservation Time: Evening
- Reserved Under: will be provided
- Location: Bocanariz is just a 5-minute walk from your hotel
Reservation confirmed by Scenset.
Why we love it for you: Casa Bueras Boutique Hotel is set on a quiet street right in the centre of the compact district, with cultural centre Gabriela Mistral, the Museum of Visual Arts and national art gallery Bellas Artes just steps away.
Casa Bueras Boutique Hotel
Deluxe Room
- Breakfast included
The tour begins with a visit to the historic city center, with the central plaza as a highlight (Plaza de Armas), kilometer zero and crucial center of the capital, where the construction of Santiago began during the colonial era, with old buildings, such as the Metropolitan Cathedral, a beautiful building that combines Bavarian and neoclassical styles of that time.
During your tour, take a trip to the powerful Museum of Memory and Human Rights. The chronological journey begins with the democratic aspirations of the Chilean people, leading up to the military coup in 1973. The exhibits meticulously detail the subsequent years of oppression, disappearances, and the harsh realities faced by countless individuals.
Booked by Scenset
End your day atop one of the city’s most famous landmarks, San Cristobal Hill. One of seven hills that form the city’s Metropolitan Park, San Cristobal offers excellent views of the city and the surrounding mountains. It has also played an important role in the history of Santiago, from pre-Hispanic times to the modern day. The journey to the top will be by cable car, and down via the hill’s famous funicular railways.
Booked by Scenset
This family-run establishment is led by a female chef who made a name for herself by joining Chilean and French culinary traditions. Enjoy the warm ambience, set in a former home and divvied up into several dining rooms. We recommend trying the foie gras with mushroom puree starter or citrus ceviche to share, followed by southern toothfish with asparagus gazpacho and cucumber noodles.
This was named No. 30 in Latin America's 50 Best Restaurants of 2019. It's also run by Latin America's Best Female Chef of 2019, a chef whose name will be provided.
Recommended by Scenset—nothing has been booked.
Casa Bueras Boutique Hotel
Deluxe Room
- Breakfast included
Travel to the most extreme points on Earth and naturally the landscape is transfigured to suit. Just look at Torres del Paine National Park for proof, a sprawling reserve that verges on the southern tip of the Americas. The granite fang-like peaks are the park’s centerpiece, but take your time exploring the glaciers, lakes, steppes, and fjords. After the long journey getting there, you’ll welcome lingering among the wildlife in this magical place.
You'll be picked up from your hotel for a private transfer to the Santiago Airport.
Booked by Scenset
Arrival at Puerto Natales and transfer to your EcoCamp Lodge at the base of the Torres del Paine.
Small group transfer booked by Scenset.
Torres del Paine National Park’s magnificent and unrivaled flora, fauna and stunning vistas are at your fingertips with this customized adventure package, allowing you to handpick daily activities such as hikes and nature walks. Best of all, the Wildlife Safari includes cozy accommodation and sublime meals at EcoCamp Patagonia, with shorter or longer options to help you get the most out of your stay in Patagonia.
Apart from the traditional trekking excursions along the W trail, there is also a wide range of off-the-beaten-path excursions in the Wildlife Safari program. It’s a great chance to explore the unknown side of Torres del Paine.
Find the daily itinerary here.
Why we love it for you: The futuristic domes placed around this otherworldly landscape give the impression that you’ve left Earth, but EcoCamp Patagonia is wholly dedicated to protecting the planet we’re on. The rooms are technically tents but in reality are more akin to eco-friendly outdoor suites, equipped with compostable toilets and renewable energy heating. After a day of roughing it on the trails with your expert guide, you’ll be glad to curl up in your plush bed with views of the Torres del Paine.
EcoCamp Patagonia
Suite Dome
- All meals included
Each evening at dinner, your EcoCamp guides will discuss the excursion opportunities available the following day. Below are a few examples, but see the full schedule here.
Start with a filling breakfast and then drive towards Pudeto dock where you will board the catamaran to Pehoe. From here, begin the challenging trek to Valle Frances (French Valley) along a steep trail that leads to the very heart of the Paine Massif.
A swifter walk will lead the group to the hanging bridge over the French River, located at the foot of the southeastern face of the Massif, where you will be treated to fantastic views of the valley. At the upper section of the valley you will be able to marvel at the extensive mass of the valley's geological formations.
After the upward trek, pause for a picnic and relax next to the stunning views. This day's trek will end as you descend through an undulating terrain of mixed grassland and light forest.
Take a car ride from EcoCamp to the shores of Lake Grey ("Lago Grey"), with several scenic pitstops along the way. Feast on a picnic lunch before boarding the boat that sails right to the facade of Glacier Grey. Take in the unreal views of this beautiful glacier, while sipping on a pisco cocktail stocked with fresh glacier ice. After finishing your boat ride, take a transfer back to EcoCamp.
The goal of this day is to complete a famous trekking trail in Torres del Paine National Park! It's a challenge, but definitely worth it.
Mountain ridges, beech forests, and small rivers line the scenic walk towards the valley. The big challenge is the steep moraine, a huge mass of boulders which leads to that iconic base-view of the Towers, three gigantic granite monoliths that are the remains of a great cirque sheared away by glacial ice. After a tough uphill climb, the Towers eventually come into full view, rising majestically with the glacial lake visible below - the place is known as Mirador las Torres. Is there any better place in the world to have lunch?
After feasting next to this beautiful view, backtrack along the same trail through Ascencio Valley and return to the campsite for a well-deserved dinner and a glass of Chilean wine.
EcoCamp Patagonia
Suite Dome
- All meals included
Transfer this morning to Punta Arenas for a final night at the bottom of the world.
Booked by Scenset
Embark on an exhilarating zodiac ride in the Bahía Agua Fresca sector, located 27 km south of Punta Arenas. Set against the backdrop of a pristine natural environment, our coastal navigation offers an immersive experience through the bay, where you'll encounter a variety of bird species and the star attraction: the southern dolphins. For years, this colony of over 30 dolphins has called this bay home, providing visitors with mesmerizing displays of jumping, spinning, and playful interactions in their untamed habitat.
The navigation excursion lasts approximately 1 hour and is a private experience.
Roundtrip transportation to boat dock included.
Booked by a user
The kitchen at La Yegua Loca serves up some of the best Patagonian cuisine in the region, and is a top spot even for locals. It's a perfect place for a celebratory meal!
Reservation confirmed by Scenset
Why we love it for you: After the incredible properties you've stayed at, La Yegua Loca is admittedly a modest ending to your trip. However, this family-owned boutique hotel is bursting with Patagonian charm. Each room is individually decorated and has its own character, while the owners are a shining example of Southern Chile's hospitality.
La Yegua Loca
Panoramic Room
- Breakfast included
Upon arrival at Santiago Airport, meet your driver for a private transfer to your wine estate in the Colchagua Valley.
Booked by Scenset
Enjoy a welcome dinner at the Viña Vik restaurant, Milla Milla.
Why we love it for you: VIK Chile will inspire you to switch off and unwind. Located at the top of a hill in the middle of the valley, very close to the Andes Mountain Range, VIK Chile boasts 360º panoramic views of the vineyards, the striking VIK Winery and your natural surroundings.
Viña VIK
Double Suite
- Full board included
Meet your private guide today to tour the Santiago winelands.
You'll first make the drive out to the beautiful Clos Apalta Winery for a tasting among the picturesque terroir of the Apalta Valley. You'll then head to highly acclaimed Montes Wines where a tasting and lunch at Francis Mallmann's Fuegos de Apalta awaits!
Lunch is to be paid directly at the restaurant.
Travel Time: about 1.5 hours each way
Booked by Scenset
Viña VIK
Double Suite
- Full board included
VIK vineyard was born amidst the foothills of the Andes mountains, within the Millahue Valley, named "Lugar de Oro" or "Golden Place" by the native Mapuche people: 4,300 hectares of astonishing Chilean wilderness where they planted over 327 hectares of vines.
VIK’s scenset offers a majestic and natural landscape composed of 12 valleys, each one with its own micro-climate, distinct exposures, all within a wind-tunnel cooled by Pacific coastal breezes and winds from high up in the Andes mountains that provide VIK with enormous complexity and exceptional variety.
Pamper yourselves after over a week of activities with some well-deserved time at the VIK Spa. The confirmed services are:
- Four Hands Massage for a guest
- Thai Foot/Head Massage for a guest
- Wine Bath
Viña VIK
Double Suite
- Full board included
Your whirlwind trip has come to an end, but you've seen some of the best parts of the country from top to bottom. Thankfully this isn't an adiós, but rather hasta luego, or until next time.
Enjoy a traditional asado or barbecue for a truly authentic send off before flying back home.
You'll be picked up from your hotel in a private transfer to Santiago Airport in time to catch your flight home.
Travel Time: about 2 hours
Booked by Scenset
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