Landscapes & Legacies
Active pace with longer touring days. Expect intermittent walking at a moderate pace for 2–3 hours over a variety of terrain, including cobblestones, hills and uneven pavements. Must be able to negotiate stairs of varying heights, sometimes without handrails. Can tolerate periods of standing during guided tours and be able to climb in/out of various modes of transportation. Some days may include 5–7 km of walking over the course of the day.
Overnight flight to Santiago, Chile.
We arrive in Santiago and transfer to our hotel. This evening is our Welcome Dinner.
This morning we transfer to the airport for our flight north to Calama. Upon arrival, we journey through the dramatic desert landscape to the oasis town of San Pedro de Atacama, set against a backdrop of volcanoes and expansive open skies.
We visit the ancient petroglyphs of Yerbas Buenas, where carvings thousands of years old reveal early cultures. Continue through striking desert scenery to Rainbow Valley, famed for its vibrant mineral bands. In the afternoon, we explore Moon Valley’s sculpted salt formations and sweeping dunes, ending with a spectacular sunset over the Cordillera de la Sal.
We depart before dawn for the high-altitude Tatio Geysers. At sunrise, witness columns of steam rising dramatically from the earth. Enjoy breakfast in this unique setting and a guided walk through bubbling pools and fumaroles, with the Andes mountains framing the surrounding landscape.
Early this morning we travel into the Andean highlands to the Altiplanic Lagoons of Miscanti and Miñique. We continue to the Atacama Salt Flat and Chaxa Lagoon, where flamingos and other birdlife thrive in this striking mineral-rich landscape.
Visit the Valley of Mars and the fertile Catarpe area, contrasting dramatic desert formations with pockets of greenery. Enjoy a tasting of local flavours rooted in Atacameñan traditions before transferring to Calama for our flight back to Santiago.
Today we explore Santiago’s rich history and modern energy. Visit landmarks including Plaza de Armas and La Moneda, then ascend San Cristóbal Hill for panoramic city views framed by the Andes. A visit to the PreColumbian Museum offers deeper insight into the region’s heritage.
We leave Santiago for the renowned Colchagua Valley, one of Chile’s premier wine regions. Visit traditional and modern wineries, touring vineyards and cellars to learn production methods. Enjoy guided tastings and a relaxed lunch among the vines.
This morning we fly south to Punta Arenas, the gateway to Chilean Patagonia. Discover this historic port city on a guided tour, taking in panoramic viewpoints over the Strait of Magellan along with key cultural landmarks.
Travel into the Patagonian countryside to visit a traditional estancia. Experience rural life firsthand with demonstrations of sheep herding and shearing, followed by a classic Patagonian barbecue featuring roasted lamb. This afternoon we continue to Puerto Natales.
We set out on a full-day exploration of Torres del Paine National Park, renowned for its dramatic granite peaks, turquoise lakes, and sweeping vistas. Visit Milodón Cave, scenic lookouts, waterfalls, and glacial lakes, with time to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.
This afternoon we visit Grey Lake for a memorable boat excursion to Grey Glacier, the largest in Torres del Paine. Cruise past floating icebergs to view the glacier up close, its striking blue ice walls creating an unforgettable sight.
After a morning at leisure we transfer to the airport for our flight to Santiago, then continue to the coastal city of Valparaíso. Known for its colourful hills and unique character, the city offers a striking contrast to earlier landscapes.
This morning we discover the seaside elegance of Viña del Mar, with its gardens and coastal promenades, before exploring Valparaíso’s historic quarters. Ride traditional funiculars, wander vibrant streets, and take in sweeping ocean views from hillside lookouts.
We travel a scenic coastal route to Isla Negra, with panoramic views over Algarrobo and El Quisco, once a hideout for Sir Francis Drake. We learn about Chilean figures from the region before visiting Pablo Neruda’s seaside home, showcasing his distinctive vision, unique collections, and lasting legacy. We return to Valparaíso for our Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant.
Transfer to Santiago Airport for our return flight to Canada.
You may cancel your tour up to 60 days prior to departure (120 days prior for tours requiring a visa, cruises or rail journeys) for any reason, and receive a full refund of your deposit / payment (less the $75 administration fee).
Cancellation & trip interruption insurance included!
Included in the cost of your tour is our Cancellation Insurance Policy, which provides coverage in case of emergency injury or illness (including Covid), right up to your date of departure (terms and conditions apply).
Our Manulife Out-of-Country Health Insurance Plan covers expenses related to Trip Interruption in case of emergency injury or illness. For tours within Canada, Senior Discovery Tours will cover such expenses (terms and conditions apply to all policies).
