Chile

Torres Del Paine National Park with enormous glaciers, high altitude lakes, snow-topped mountain peaks and vast luscious countryside is perfect for exploring by boat, kayak and on foot. Further north you’ll discover a landscape that couldn’t be more opposite in scenery; the Atacama Desert aptly known as the driest desert on Earth, with some areas never having received rain. Here you’ll find photo-worthy snaps at every step you take, of a volcanic landscape unlike anywhere else on earth. If you prefer waterfalls, rivers, forests and lakes surrounded by volcanic peaks, The Lake District has scenery likened to that of Switzerland. Easter Island is a desolate and remote island, home to the mysterious Moai, human-head stone carvings dotted along the seaside. Don’t miss funky and cool Santiago, with hip bars, excellent eateries, an upcoming street art scene and plenty of history. Nearby and worth a day trip or overnight are some of Chile’s best vineyards, known for producing some of the most delicious wine around… Malbec, anyone?

Famously, this is where the Mars Rover was tested before being launched to space! Due to the dry terrain, a multitude of meteors have been excavated here and a small modest museum houses a local collection. From the lunar like ‘Valley of the Moon’ to the ‘Devil’s Gorge’ lookout and the ‘Dali Desert’ aptly named as many of Salvador Dali’s paintings and sculptured were inspired by this other-worldly landscape, this landscape is worthy of even the most modest photography buff. Google pictures of the Atacama. You can thank us later.

Explorations deep into Patagonia—Stepping foot into a landscape that most only dream of will heighten all senses immediately upon arrival. While it will take some driving to reach here, the scenery is incredibly stunning. Day trips from your lodge include kayaking on emerald green lagoons, boat voyages to glittering glaciers and through water carved caverns, hiking for all levels and across various terrains and altitudes, traversing the landscape on horseback, birdwatching, fishing and biking.

Culture, Food and Wine in Santiago – Chile produces some of the best wine in the world, and just outside Santiago are several fantastic vineyards making a lovely day trip or overnight getaway. The local foodie scene in Santiago itself showcases delicious local Latino inspired cuisine along with top international fusion restaurants. Every diet is catered for. The night scene is buzzing, as many locals go out for dinner after 9 or 10 PM. You’ll find plenty of history and museums too, once your belly has had its share of indulgences.

Hidden Gem – Astro-tourism, where travelers seek out destinations for prime viewing and photography of eclipses, meteor showers, and everyday stargazing, is booming in Chile. Groundbreaking astronomic finds and research are conducted in the country daily. Star-filled skies are best in the Atacama due to the combination of high altitude, unbelievably clear skies, and little human population, spend some time with an expert astronomer and fix your eyes on the heavens. Tours are available to sought-after observatories like Paranal and ALMA and need to be booked in advance.

• We recommend 7-12 days in Chile, which can be combined with time in Argentina, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador or a quick jaunt to the Salt Flats of Bolivia.
• If you are a fan of the outdoors and nature, then Chile is for you! We also recommend this destination to honeymooners, active travelers, foodies and wine connoisseurs.
• The best way to travel between destinations in Chile is by commercial flight, as this country is quite vast. Internal flights are quick and affordable.
• You’ll have local, private guides at each location who are specialists in the regional customs, geography, geology, natural history and wildlife.
• Visas for Chile are not required for most visitors. Inoculations may be recommended. We suggest you see a travel medicine specialist for advice.
• The native language is Spanish however English is widely spoken throughout the country, especially in the hospitality industry.

Typically, you can expect an arid climate in the North, a temperate Mediterranean climate in central Chile, and an alpine climate in the South. Easter Island is subtropical and humid most of the year but cooled by sea breezes.

October – March: This is Chile’s Spring and summer season with long days of up to 16 hours of sunlight and warm, mild temperatures averaging 82°F (28°C). In Torres Del Paine, this is peak season and locations may be crowded. The Atacama, like many deserts is sizzling during the day 100°F (38°C) and cool at night 41°F (5°C). Santiago and the Lakes District can be pleasant at any time of year.

April – September: Autumn and winter bring cooler temperatures throughout the country. Down South, Patagonia can be inaccessible and cold 5°F (-15°C) in the heart of winter (Jul-Aug), but still pleasant and possibly snow-covered if you are prepared for those conditions! The Atacama and Altiplano can be visited during this time of year but expect cold temperatures due to altitude.

Once you locate to remote areas such as the Atacama and Patagonia, you are in for an indulgent experience at all-inclusive luxury lodges, with top-end guides who will immerse you in the landscapes and nature of this beautiful country. The Lakes District is scattered with guesthouses and boutique-style hotels. Throughout your stay the hospitality is intertwined with the warm spirit of the people.