Chile's Ultimate Cities & Landscapes: Santiago, Atacama Desert & Patagonia - 16 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Santiago, Explore Chile's Capital at Leisure

Welcome to Chile's vibrant capital, Santiago, nestled between the Andes and the Chilean Coastal Range. Meet your driver outside the airport and transfer to your hotel to check in. The rest of the day is free for you to spend as you wish, so you could relax at the hotel or venture out to explore the area on your own. A good place to start is the National Museum of Natural History in the heart of the city. Explore the connections between nature and science as you peruse impressive displays of native flora and fauna and fascinating exhibits on the country's geological formations. 

Just across the street from the museum is Parque Forestal, an expansive urban park that stretches alongside the Mapocho River. Go for a leisurely stroll along the well-maintained paths lined with lush trees, colorful flower beds, and charming sculptures. Then, make your way to Bellavista, a lively neighborhood known for its nightlife, artistic vibe, and numerous restaurants. Visit a local restaurant for dinner to indulge in traditional dishes like pastel de choclo (Chilean casserole made with a layer of ground meat, onions, olives, and hard-boiled eggs, topped with a sweet corn pudding).

Day 2: Day Trip to Viña del Mar & Valparaíso

Leave the capital behind this morning as you set off on a full-day tour of Chile's Pacific coast. Start with a 1.5-hour transfer to Viña del Mar, a coastal resort city teeming with shopping complexes, commercial high-rises, boutiques, and well-manicured gardens. The city's modern image is the result of reconstruction efforts following the numerous earthquakes the Chilean coast has endured over the years, but you can still find 20th-century landmarks, like Palacio Vergara and Castillo Wulff, here. Sit down for a seaside lunch at one of the upscale restaurants before continuing to the neighboring city of Valparaíso.

Discover this colorful city's old plazas of Sotomayor and Aníbal Pinto before taking a ride on the Ascensor Reina Victoria, a historic funicular built in 1902. Go from the lower streets of the bustling city to the hilly neighborhoods of Cerro Concepción, Cerro Alegre, and Cerro Florida. On Cerro Bellavista, you'll find La Sebastiana, a museum that was once the home of the famed Chilean poet Pablo Neruda. After enjoying one last look at the vibrant houses and shimmering Pacific Ocean, transfer back to your hotel in Santiago.

Day 3: Fly to Calama, Transfer to San Pedro de Atacama, Stargazing Tour

Say goodbye to Santiago this morning (for now) as you transfer to the airport for a two-hour flight to Calama in northern Chile. Meet your driver outside the airport and transfer 1.5 hours to San Pedro de Atacama, a remote town in the heart of the Atacama Desert, known as the driest place on Earth. Settle in at your hotel and get ready for a stargazing tour on the Altiplano, also known as the Andean Plateau, surrounded by towering volcanoes.

Start the tour with an astronomy lesson before heading into the desert. The plateau's high altitude and minimal light pollution make it an ideal place for stargazing. Your guide will help you identify constellations and teach you about local celestial phenomena, like ancient Inca star maps. After admiring the stars with your naked eye, use a high-powered telescope and/or binoculars to spot an array of celestial objects, including planets, binary stars, and spherical clusters.

Day 4: Guided Tour of the Lagunas Baltinache or Cordillera del Sal 

Start your day with a visit to the Lagunas Baltinache, seven striking saltwater lagoons set against the backdrop of the rugged desert. The lagoons are renowned for their vivid turquoise and deep blue hues, a result of their high saline content. Go for a dip in two of the serene, mineral-rich lagoons that make floating effortless. The lagoons may be closed for swimming to protect the delicate ecosystems, so your guide will take you on a tour of the desert's geological wonders instead. 

Head to the Cordillera del Sal (Salt Mountain Range) and visit the labyrinth of salt caves that glisten in the sunlight and reveal intricate patterns and textures. You'll also see geological formations carved by salt and wind over millions of years, like the Tres Marías, towering salt pillars resembling figures frozen in time. Stay to watch the sunset over the desert, painting the surrounding mountains in shades of red and orange, before returning to your hotel. 

Day 5: Discover Laguna Cejar, Ojos del Salar & Laguna Tebenquiche

This afternoon you'll discover three of the Atacama Desert's high-saline lagoons. Start with a one-hour transfer to Laguna Cejar, renowned for its striking turquoise waters. Take a dip in the lagoon and float effortlessly on its surface as you would in the Dead Sea, thanks to the high salt concentration. Continue to Ojos del Salar (Salt Eyes), two crater-like lagoons surrounded by the Domeyko and Andes mountains. These twin lagoons are more suitable for viewing rather than swimming as they're saltier than the first lagoon you visited.

Your last stop is Laguna Tebinquiche, which differs from the previous lagoons as it's often half dry, so you can walk over the thick crust of salt underneath. Look out for wildlife like flamingoes, Andean gulls, and even foxes as you wait for the sun to set over the water. Watch as the sky transforms, changing the color of the water's surface with it, before returning to your hotel in San Pedro de Atacama.

Day 6: Full-Day Tour of the Atacama Desert

Spend one more day exploring the Atacama Desert, starting at the Licancabur Lookout for panoramic views of one of the Andes' most iconic volcanoes. From this elevated viewpoint, you can take in the vast, rugged desert landscape and the sparkling blue of nearby high-altitude lagoons, including Laguna Verde and Laguna Blanca. Enjoy breakfast at the viewpoint or, if it's too windy, head to the Quepiaco River to eat and take in views of the tranquil waters surrounded by lush vegetation.

Then, trade one viewpoint for another as you continue to Pacana Lookout, offering uninterrupted views of the expansive caldera and its intricate patterns of salt flats, towering rock formations, and ancient volcanic structures. Your next stop is Monjes de La Pacana, striking rock formations resembling towering monastic figures rising from the arid landscape. After admiring the rock formations eroded over millennia by wind and water, head to the lesser-known Salar de Quisquiro for lunch. On the way back to your hotel in San Pedro de Atacama, pass by the Salar de Aguas Calientes, known for its colorful waters.

Day 7: Transfer to Calama, Fly to Punta Arenas, Enjoy a Free Afternoon

Now that you've thoroughly explored the Atacama Desert's salt flats, rock formations, and lagoons, it's time to continue the journey as you head to Punta Arenas, the southernmost city on Chile's mainland. Start with a 1.5-hour transfer back to Calama, where you can board your 4 to 5-hour flight. When you arrive, meet your driver outside the airport and transfer to your hotel to check in. The rest of the day is free for you to spend as you wish, so if you want to go sightseeing, a good place to start is Mirador Cerro de la Cruz for panoramic views of the city. 

Just a short walk from the city center, this scenic viewpoint provides an unmatched outlook over the city's colorful rooftops, the vast expanse of the Strait of Magellan, and, on clear days, even the distant shores of Tierra del Fuego. Continue to Plaza de Armas, a bustling square surrounded by important landmarks, like the Monumento Hernando De Magallanes, which honors the famous explorer, and the Catedral de Punta Arenas. Admire the mix of colonial and neoclassical architecture, then step inside to see the intricate stained glass windows that cast colorful light across the space. 

Day 8: Visit the Penguin Colony on Isla Magdalena 

Get ready for an early start this morning as you transfer to a pier on the Strait of Magellan for a 1.5-hour boat ride to Isla Magdalena. This small island is home to one of Chile's largest colonies of Magellanic penguins, with up to 170,000 of these charismatic birds nesting there. When you arrive, disembark and spend one hour on shore, where you can walk along designated paths to an old lighthouse that offers sweeping views of the strait. Along the way, you'll get a close-up look at the penguins waddling around their burrows, building their nests, and preening their feathers.

Keep an eye on the waters as well, as you may spot penguins swimming or diving to catch fish. Besides penguins, you might spot other wildlife, such as seagulls and cormorants. Depending on weather conditions, you may pass Isla Marta on your way back to the mainland to see the resident South American sea lions on the rocky shores. You can often watch these playful animals basking in the sun, swimming in the strait, or engaging in social interactions with each other. After returning to your hotel in Punta Arenas, the rest of the day is free for you to spend as you wish.

Day 9: Bus to Puerto Natales, Enjoy a Free Afternoon

Bid farewell to Punta Arenas this morning as you transfer to the bus station for a three-hour ride to Puerto Natales. Situated on the Última Esperanza Sound, the port city offers unmatched views of snowcapped mountains, fjords, and glaciers. Upon arrival, a driver will take you to your hotel for check in and some free time to relax or explore the city. You can go for a stroll along the waterfront promenade for a better look at the towering peaks and calm waters of the fjord. The promenade is dotted with benches where you can sit and take in the peaceful scenery. 

Then, warm up inside the Municipal Historical Museum as you peruse the exhibits showcasing the region's Indigenous history, European settlers, and local culture. Learn about the Aónikenk and Kawésqar peoples' traditions, lifestyle, and relationship with the land, as well as the development of the local wool industry through artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays. End the night at a local restaurant to try classic Patagonian dishes, such as cordero al palo (roasted lamb slow-cooked over an open fire) or king crab freshly caught from nearby waters and served in salads, soups, or as a main dish.

Day 10: Boat Tour to the Balmaceda & Serrano Glaciers

This morning, head to a dock near Puerto Natales and hop on a boat bound for the Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers, located at the southern end of Bernardo O'Higgins National Park. Keep your camera close during this scenic boat ride as you'll be treated to panoramic views of native forests composed of coihue, canelo, and lenga beech trees. You're also likely to spot sea lions, cormorants, and dolphins as you make your way toward the glaciers.

Disembark and look out at these enormous ice structures from the land, shimmering in shades of blue and white. Listen for the sound of cracking ice as the glacier shifts, and if you're lucky, you may even witness chunks of ice breaking off into the waters below. After a short hike, you'll reach a ranch, where you can enjoy a traditional Patagonian barbecue. In the afternoon, return to Puerto Natales by boat.

Day 11: Transfer to Torres del Paine National Park, Guided Tour

Trade the port city of Puerto Natales for the iconic Torres del Paine National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve spanning over 240,000 acres (97,124 ha). On the 1-2-hour transfer, you'll pass Silla del Diablo, an armchair-like rock formation, and stop at Cueva del Mylodon. Inside the series of impressive caves, you'll find a life-sized replica of a mylodon, a giant herbivore that became extinct in the late Pleistocene era. Back in the car, pass rolling hills, shimmering lagoons, and towering peaks before arriving at the national park.

Head straight to Mirador Lago Grey for panoramic views of Grey Glacier, the Paine Massif mountain range, and Lago Toro in the distance. A couple of miles further on, you'll see Cuernos del Paine, iconic granite peaks named for their distinctive horn-like shape. From here, you'll enjoy a leisurely walk around Lago Grey, and if the weather permits, you'll stop at the Mirador del Península Grey for uninterrupted views of the lake.

After the trek, enjoy a break and picnic lunch in the park before continuing to Salto Grande, a dramatic cascade where the Río Paine flows swiftly over a series of rocky cliffs. Make your way to Mirador Lago Nordenskjöld and take in views of the turquoise waters and surrounding peaks. Your last stop is Laguna Amarga, a striking lagoon known for its captivating shades of blue and green. After admiring the picturesque scene, transfer to your hotel within the national park for the night.

Day 12: Enjoy a Free Day in Torres del Paine National Park

Wake up and enjoy sunrise views before breakfast with a hot cup of coffee or tea. While you eat, you can plan your day as you're free to explore the park any way you choose. There are a number of activities available, like wildlife viewing, boat tours to the Grey Glacier, and hiking to various lookout points in the park. If you're up for a hike, consider the 7.5-mile (12 km) round-trip trail to Mirador Las Torres, where you can see the three granite towers that gave the national park its name. Start with a scenic walk through the lush lenga forests and along the sparkling waters of the Río Ascencio.

As you ascend, the trail becomes steeper, rewarding your efforts with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Keep your eyes peeled for local flora and fauna, including vibrant wildflowers and the occasional sighting of guanacos grazing or condors soaring overhead. When you approach the final stretch, the trail narrows and demands a bit more effort, but you'll be rewarded with unmatched views of the three peaks framed by the turquoise waters of the glacial lake at their base. No matter how you spend the day, you'll return to your home base in time for dinner. 

Day 13: Explore Torres del Paine National Park, Transfer to Puerto Natales

Your tour of Torres del Paine National Park continues as you visit places you may have missed on the way to the park, like the turquoise Lago Pehoé or French Valley, known for its dramatic landscapes. At the end of the day, you'll transfer back to Puerto Natales. If you're not too tired, you can experience the city's laid-back nightlife scene by visiting local bars for craft beers and a cozy atmosphere. Some venues also host live music events, particularly on weekends, so you can watch local musicians performing traditional Chilena music or contemporary tunes.

Day 14: Discover Ancient Trails & Caves in Patagonia

Travel 15 miles (25 km) north of Puerto Natales this morning to visit an archaeological park inside a Patagonian ranch, a landscape born from the bottom of the sea that will allow you to observe its nearby mountains, crevices, eaves, and valleys. Here, it's also possible to see nesting sites of condors that dominate the skies. Climb to the summit of a nearby hill for panoramic views of the Eberhard Fjord and Señoret Canal. The deep blue waters of the fjord contrast vividly with the surrounding peaks, while the canal's shimmering waters reflect the rugged peaks. 

After taking in the view, head to a cave within Cerro Benítez, housing cave paintings that are approximately 3,500 years old. Don a headlamp and enter the 13-foot-tall (4 m) cave lined with stalactites created from the accumulation of salts and minerals over thousands of years. Back outside the cave, walk to the Two Horseshoes, a natural formation consisting of two massive rock arches that create a dramatic gateway. Look closely at the rocky walls, as you'll find more petroglyphs created by Indigenous peoples that depict various symbols reflecting their cultural and spiritual beliefs. 

Day 15: Fly to Santiago, Explore More of the Capital

Your penultimate day in Chile takes you back to Santiago for the last time. Based on flight schedules, a driver will pick you up at your hotel and transfer you to the bus station for a ride to the airport in Punta Arenas or to the local airport in Puerto Natales. Once you're in the capital, you're free to spend your day as you wish. You could book a tour of Palacio de La Moneda, the presidential palace of Chile, to learn more about this neoclassical building and its rich history. The tour typically includes visits to key areas, such as the impressive central courtyard, the grand ceremonial halls, and the presidential offices. 

Alongside historical anecdotes, you'll learn about the significant events that have taken place within these walls, including the dramatic moments of the 1973 coup d'état. Be sure to visit Centro Cultural La Moneda, a dynamic cultural center located beneath the palace. Discover the rotating art exhibits, attend cultural performances, or participate in educational workshops and lectures. When you get hungry, make your way to Barrio Lastarria, a bohemian neighborhood known for its diverse dining scene. Choose from a mix of trendy cafés, local restaurants, and upscale establishments to end the night.

Day 16: Santiago City Tour, Depart

Although you're saying goodbye to Chile and flying home today, you have time for one last adventure: a 3.5-hour tour of Santiago. Start by wandering the aisles of Mercado Central to engage with vendors and sample traditional Chilean dishes like ceviche, empanadas, and grilled fish, all prepared with the freshest ingredients. Then, head to Plaza de Armas, a lively plaza surrounded by the Museo Histórico Nacional (National Museum of History), Correo Central (Central Post Office), and Catedral Metropolitana, a neoclassical church with imposing columns, twin bell towers, and arched windows. 

Your last stop is either Cerro Santa Lucía or Cerro San Cristóbal for panoramic views of the city's urban sprawl, historic architecture, and landmarks like Gran Torre Santiago, Latin America's tallest building. After the tour, return to the hotel to grab your bags, meet your driver, and transfer to the airport in time for your flight. Safe travels!