Compare Patagonia Explorer: The Best of Chile by Odysseys Unlimited vs Chile in 14 days - San Pedro de Atacama, Andes & Patagonia - Charm by Exoticca

Day 1

Depart for Puerto Montt, Chile

Day 2: Arrive Puerto Montt/Puerto Varas

Meals: Dinner

Upon arrival in Chile’s Lake District, we transfer to our hotel in Puerto Varas. The afternoon is at leisure; tonight we meet our fellow travelers and Odysseys Unlimited Tour Director at a briefing about the journey ahead, followed by a welcome dinner.

Day 3: Vicente Rosales National Park

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today we set out on a full-day excursion through stunning Vicente Rosales National Park, set almost entirely in the Andes and covering nearly 1,000 square miles. We see the Petrohué Waterfalls, where surging whitewater plunges over black volcanic rock, and regal Osorno Volcano in the distance, a snowcapped cone that has been compared to Japan’s Mount Fuji. This afternoon we travel to a ranch in the nearby town of Alerce to meet Chilean cowboys and watch as they demonstrate their rodeo skills. Tonight we enjoy a traditional asado-style barbecue dinner at the ranch.

Day 4: Puerto Varas/Calbuco

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

We travel this morning to the small lakeside town of Calbuco, situated on an island in one of southern Chile’s many fjords. We see a mussel fishery then enjoy a small group highlight as we have lunch prepared by a local fisherman’s family.

Day 5: Puerto Varas/Punta Arenas

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

We transfer to the airport today for the two-hour flight to Punta Arenas, capital of Chile’s southernmost Magallanes Region. Upon arrival we transfer to our hotel, where we dine tonight.

Day 6: Punta Arenas

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

We get a close-up view of Patagonian Chile today on our excursion to a working estancia (ranch). We visit with the local cowboys who work here and watch a sheepdog exercise to see how these amazing animals perform their important job of herding. We also see a sheep-shearing demonstration and learn how the wool is processed. Then we enjoy a traditional Patagonian asado lunch at the ranch before our return to Punta Arenas, where the remainder of the day is at leisure.

Day 7: Magdalena Island/Puerto Natales

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

On our day cruise through the storied Strait of Magellan today, we have the opportunity to see for ourselves an animal that most people have only seen in captivity: the Magellanic penguin, the two-foot tall flightless bird that numbers among the millions along the southern tip of South America. We cruise to tiny Magdalena Island, home to a colony of more than 120,000 penguins that coexist peacefully with cormorants, sea lions, and other species. We return to Punta Arenas in time for lunch before continuing our journey northward by coach to Puerto Natales, gateway to Torres del Paine National Park on the shores of Ultima Esperanza Sound.

Day 8: Serrano and Balmaceda Glaciers

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

We experience southern Chile’s glacier region on today’s excursion. Our day cruise takes us through more stunning Patagonian scenery, as we navigate between snow-capped mountains and walls of ice to reach the massive glaciers, where we enjoy fabulous views and photo opportunities. We watch as the ice seems to tumble down the mountainsides and into the bays below (and in fact often does, in a process called calving). Then we enjoy lunch at a local estancia as we return to Puerto Natales. Dinner tonight is on our own.

Day 9: Puerto Natales/Torres del Paine

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

This morning we make the two-hour drive north into Torres del Paine, a breathtaking 700-square-mile national park and UNESCO reserve. After reaching our hotel and having lunch together, we set out on a short hike; the rugged beauty of our surroundings gives us a preview of what’s in store over the next two days. Tonight we dine together at our hotel, as we will throughout our stay here.

Day 10: Torres del Paine National Park

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today marks our first full day in Torres del Paine, one of the most unspoiled and beautiful nature preserves on Earth. We spend the day exploring this unparalleled landscape of jagged peaks, ice-blue glaciers, turquoise lakes, rushing rivers, and thunderous waterfalls. We also visit magnificent Lago Grey, which is fed by the glacier of the same name in the Southern Patagonia Ice Field.

Day 11: Torres del Paine National Park

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Our second day of exploration in the park features Laguna Amarga, Laguna Azul, and Cascade Rio Paine, along with resident wildlife.

Day 12: Torres del Paine/Santiago

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

We trade our natural surroundings for the bustling urban heart of Chile today, as we travel by coach to Punta Arenas then board a 3.5-hour flight to the Chilean capital of Santiago. We reach our hotel early this evening; dinner tonight is on our own in this cosmopolitan city with a lively culinary scene.

Day 13: Santiago

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

This morning we get acquainted with Santiago on a panoramic city tour. Chile’s largest city and the capital since colonial times, Santiago boasts an impressive diversity of architecture, a view of the majestic Andes, and a vibrant cultural atmosphere. After time for lunch on our own, we visit one of the many wineries that surround the city for a tour and tasting. Tonight we celebrate our Patagonian sojourn over a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 14: Santiago/Depart for U.S.

Meals: Breakfast

After a morning at leisure, this afternoon we visit Bellavista, Santiago’s colorful bohemian barrio where poet Pablo Neruda once lived. There’s time to explore on our own before we transfer to the airport for our overnight flights to the U.S.

Day 15: Arrive U.S.

We arrive in the U.S. this morning and connect with our return flights home.

Day 1: U.S. - Night on board

It's time to explore the diverse landscapes and breathtaking natural beauty of Chile. Arrive at your U.S. departure airport ready to check-in for an overnight flight to Santiago. Night on board. If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.

Day 2: Santiago

Arrive in Santiago and transfer to the hotel. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure, exploring the beautiful city which is surrounded by Andean mountains and boasts a charming historic centre. We recommend strolling around the colonial centre and people-watching in one of the many cafe terraces. Overnight stay in Santiago.

Day 3: Santiago

After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a fascinating panoramic tour of Santiago. Begin your discovery on the main avenue, soaking up the atmosphere and history. Head to the cobblestoned neighbourhood of Lastarria, filled with green spaces and 19th-century mansions. Continue up to Santa Lucia Hill where you'll have some time to take photos of the amazing views and the Hidalgo Castle. Next up, explore the most emblematic sights in the city such as the Plaza de Armas, Santiago Cathedral, the La Moneda government house and the impressive Plaza de la Constitucion. See local life in action at the Central Market before stopping at a Lapis Lazuli store to admire the beautiful crafts and jewellery of local artisans. Return to the hotel and the remainder of the day is free at your leisure to explore or relax as you please. Join the locals in the historic plazas of the city for an evening drink! Overnight stay in Santiago.

Day 4: Santiago - Calama - San Pedro de Atacama

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to airport for flight to Calama. On arrival, transfer to San Pedro de Atacama situated in the dusty plateaus of the Andean mountains. Arrive at the hotel and, depending on your arrival time, begin exploring this town at your leisure, set within the breath-taking natural scenery. Overnight stay in San Pedro de Atacama.

Day 5: San Pedro de Atacama

Breakfast at the hotel. The morning is at your leisure to relax or take an optional excursion to the Tatio Geysers and Machuca.* This afternoon, set off to the famous Moon Valley, situated just outside of the town, between the hills of the Cordillera de la Sal. One of Chile's most astonishing natural spectacles, discover the moon-like landscape, unusual rock formations and the unique geological environment. Continue to the Death Valley, home to the best views of the Andes Mountains and it's towering volcanoes. As the sun sets, enjoy the atmospheric red and golden tones over the landscape, an unforgettable moment to feel at one with nature. Return to the hotel and spend the evening at your leisure, recounting the amazing afternoon with your fellow travellers! Overnight stay in San Pedro de Atacama. * Optional Tatio Geysers & Machuca Excursion: Take an excursion to the beautiful Altiplano, seeing off early to see the sunrise over the geothermal field of the Tatio Geysers, where 70 fumaroles emerge from the ground in jets of steam and water. Also visit the village of Machuca, home to traditional straw houses and artisans selling traditional Andean crafts and delicacies. Breakfast included.

Day 6: San Pedro de Atacama

After a leisurely breakfast, enjoy a free day to relax at your own pace or get out into the other-worldly landscapes of the Atacama desert to explore further. We recommend visiting the beautiful Altiplanic lagoons, a true natural spectacle. Overnight stay in San Pedro de Atacama. * Optional Altiplanic Lagoons Excursion: Climb to the magnificent Salar de Aguas Calientes, famous for its red stones and visit the Altiplanic lagoons of Miscanti and Miniques, home to a multitude of wildlife. Afterwards, explore Chaxa Lagoon and the Andean town of Toconao to get to know local life in this unique environment. Lunch included.

Day 7: San Pedro de Atacama - Calama - Santiago

Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer to Calama Airport to catch a flight back to the capital of Santiago. Arrive and transfer to the hotel. The remainder of the day is free at your leisure to enjoy the city atmosphere, go shopping for souvenirs or simply soak up the beautiful views of the Andes, visible from most parts of the city. Overnight stay in Santiago.

Day 8: Santiago - Puerto Montt - Puerto Varas

Breakfast at the hotel. It's time to continue your Chilean exploration today with a transfer to the airport for a flight to Puerto Montt. On arrival, transfer to the sleepy city of Puerto Varas, known as the 'City of Roses' and famed for its German influence, evident in its charming architecture and local cuisine. Get settled at your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure. We recommend exploring the plentiful artisan shops, visiting the beautiful churches of Sacred Heart and Iglesia Lueterana or simply grabbing a warming mug of coffee and watching the landscape of snow-capped volcanoes and glass-like lakes. Overnight stay in Puerto Varas.

Day 9: Puerto Varas

Breakfast at the hotel. This morning, set off on a full-day cruise excursion to Peulla, a small eco-village situated in the iconic Andean Crossing tourist circuit. Set sail on Lake Todos Los Santos, passing by pretty villages and coming face-to-face with the beautiful Petrohue River Falls. Continue cruising on the lake as you continue towards its eastern edge, travelling deeper into the vast Andean landscape. Enjoy breathtaking views of three volcanoes: Osorno, Puntiagudo and Tronador, icons of the region. Stop in Peulla and explore this quaint village at your leisure. Many adventure tourism activities are on offer in the village. As this memorable day comes to a close, return to Puerto Varas. Overnight stay in Puerto Varas.

Day 10: Puerto Varas

Breakfast at the hotel. Spend the day at your leisure in Puerto Varas, exploring at your own pace. Alternatively, we recommend an optional excursion to the Greater Island of Chiloe. * Overnight stay in Puerto Varas. * Optional Excursion to the Greater Island of Chiloe: Transfer to Pargua to board a ferry, crossing the Chacao Channel, which separates the mainland with the Greater Island of Chiloe. Along the way, look out for sea lions, pelicans and seabirds. Spend the day exploring the island and its sights, including the iconic wooden churches, built by Jesuit missionaries in the 17th and 18th centuries, and the characterful Palafitos, stilted over-water houses. Visit the cities of Dalcahue, Ancud and the capital of Castro, and get to know the local gastronomy at the local gastronomic market.

Day 11: Puerto Varas - Puerto Montt - Punta Arenas - Puerto Natales

Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer to Puerto Montt airport for a flight to Punta Arenas. On arrival, transfer to Puntas Arenas Bus Terminal to catch a regular bus into the city of Puerto Natales, a journey of approximately 3 hours. On arrival, transfer to the hotel, situated in stunning Puerto Natales, and if your flight allows, take some time to explore this once modest fishing port. Make sure to see the pretty corrugated tin-roof houses and cosy old-style lodgings as well as enjoying the international restaurants and cafes. Overnight stay in Puerto Natales.

Day 12: Puerto Natales

Breakfast at the hotel. Today is the day you explore the world-famous Torres del Paine National Park, an icon of Chile's natural beauty and loved by adventurers around the world. Set off into the landscapes, stopping at the Milodon Cave, an amazing natural monument where the fossilised remains of an extinct ground sloth were discovered in the 19th-century. Continue into the national park observing the picturesque Sofia Lagoon, Cordillera Prat, Porteno Lake and pristine natural landscapes. Take in the views and snap some photos at the Gray Lake Viewpoint, and walk along the shore of Gray Lake. Continue into the Salto Grande sector of the park to visit the Nordenskjold Lake Viewpoint and the Paine Waterfall, a beautiful place where you can see the milky waters that drain from the glaciers across the Paine River. Enjoy the amazing untouched wilderness and soak up the fresh air. The last stop, at dusk, is the Sarmiento Lake Viewpoint, for an unforgettable view as the sun begins to set. Return to Puerto Natales. Overnight stay in Puerto Natales.

Day 13: Puerto Natales

Enjoy a delicious breakfast and spend the day at your leisure. We recommend visiting the local public museum and enjoying the sea views across the islets and inlets from the unique Hand Monument. Take some time to stroll along the waterfront and soak up the tranquil atmosphere of this unique city. Alternatively, if you are feeling adventurous we recommend an optional excursion to Base Torres del Paine.* Overnight stay in Puerto Natales. * Optional Full-Day Base Torres del Paine Viewpoint Excursion: Set off in the morning to the Las Torres Sector of the national park to begin the guided trail to the Base Torres del Paine Viewpoint. Cross the old Ascencio River Bridge and follow the zigzag path as you climb higher, taking in the breathtaking natural beauty that surrounds you. Hike up slopes and through the wilderness until finally reaching the much-loved Base Torres del Paine viewpoint, from where you can enjoy views of the iconic Three Towers. Lunch and rest stop before returning to Puerto Natales. Please note: this excursion is physically challenging and involves hours of walking. You should have a good level of fitness to participate.

Day 14: Puerto Natales - Punta Arenas - Santiago

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to Puerto Natales Bus Station today to catch the regular bus to Puntas Arenas Airport, a journey of approximately 3 hours. From the airport, catch your flight back to Santiago. On arrival, transfer to the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the evening at your leisure. Overnight stay in Santiago.

Day 15: Santiago - Night on board

Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport for a flight back to the U.S. Night on board.

Day 16: U.S.

Arrive in the U.S. and end your unforgettable Chilean adventure.