Chile boasts some of the most breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders in South America, making it a dream destination for many. From exploring the Atacama Desert to hiking in the Andes Mountains, there is plenty to choose from.
An easy way to explore the country is by taking a day trip. One of the most popular day tours in Chile is visiting the Valle Nevado Ski Resort. Located just outside of Santiago, this resort offers stunning views of the Andes Mountains and a variety of outdoor activities year-round.
Another top day tour in Chile is visiting the coastal city of Valparaiso. Known for its colorful houses and street art, Valparaiso is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a cultural hub of Chile. Take a walking tour of the city to learn about its history and enjoy the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Day Trip from Santiago to Valparaiso and Vina Del Mar
As the capital and the financial hub of Chile, Santiago has a lot to offer. If you want to see a different, more relaxed side to Chile, however, then head for the coast. In Valparaiso and Vina Del Mar, you’ll be privy to views over the sea, and the area is filled with cultural attractions, amazing cuisine and a relaxed way of life.
From your hotel in Santiago, board a comfortable, air-conditioned bus and set off for the coast. The journey brings you through the Curacavi and Casablance, two lush green valleys that signal the coming of the vineyards. Then, it’s through wineries and agricultural land, showcasing that you’re getting further from the Chilean capital. Eventually, you’ll arrive at the first of the two major stops of the day: Vina del Mar.
In this coastal town, you’ll have the opportunity to dine and explore the city’s popular casino, see an original moai statue from the Easter Islands and stroll through the beautiful central park in the city called La Quinta Vergara. You might see the stunning beaches in the distance, or admire the Castillo Wulf, a famous German castle next to the coast.
Back in the bus, it’s just a 15-minute drive to the neighboring destination of Valparaiso. This is another coastal town, but it also has a rich history and heritage of art. Many of the homes are painted in bright, bold colors, and murals are found on the sides of countless buildings. You can even visit the Pablo Neruda Museum, which is dedicated to his sea-inspired poems of love.
Finally, there is the chance to ride a funicular, which offers magnificent views over Valparaíso as well as the ocean. Then, it is back to the bus and back to the top hotels in the city of Santiago de Chile.
Atacama Salt Flat Day Trip from San Pedro de Atacama
Arguably one of the most famous places in Chile, the Atacama Salt Flats are just begging to be visited. A vast area that’s practically a desert, you won’t find any sand here; instead, it’s just miles and miles and miles of salt for a distinctly otherworldly experience. Thankfully, it’s easy to get to from San Pedro de Atacama – the gateway to this incredible location.
In this amazing area, you’ll visit the sublime salt flats of Soncor, as well as seeing the luminescent flocks of flamingos in the Los Flamenco National Park, and be utterly wowed by the lush languid lagoons of Miscanti and Miniques (13,000 feet above sea level). This is one of those trips that’s so packed with amazing stuff to see that you won’t be able to stop snapping pictures – everywhere you turn is just beautiful.
When you’re hungry, don’t panic; there’s a late lunch at the village of Socaire, where you’ll get to try out a spot of traditional Chilean cuisine – Atacama style, in fact – as well as taking your time to browse the boutiques of Tocanao for souvenirs and bespoke, locally-made crafts – as well as its picturesque bell tower. It’s a long day, but it’s packed to the rafters with incredible sights.
Torres del Paine National Park Tour from Puerto Natales
Journey from Porto Natales and get swept away by the spectacular Torres del Paine National Park. This is one stunner of a national park that you won’t want to miss out on – and all on an easy day trip from this Chilean city.
There are a whole lot of things to see and do on this tour, so get ready to be wowed at every moment. You’ll see vast, soaring glaciers, gleaming lagoons, and the jagged, snow-capped peaks of the Andes mountain range. How’s that for spectacular?
Packed full of knowledge on flora and fauna, your guide will take you on a cool adventure into the Milodon Cave, where you can see ancient stalactites and the unnerving Devil’s Chair formation, amongst a whole lot of other weird and wonderful shapes. This is a great chance to learn more about natural phenomena like ice floes and other geological wonders.
You’ll have lunch in a delicious restaurant with views over the stunningly mirror-like waters of Lake Pehoe and the Codillera del Paine mountain range. When it comes to lunch with a view, this one is up there with the best. Definitely the sort of trip where it feels like bucket list items are getting ticked off at every moment!
Santiago City Sightseeing Tour
Explore the capital city of Santiago, Chile, on an exciting 3 to 4 hour tour. In this brief time, you’ll be able to see panoramic views over the city, exceptional museums, unusual souvenir shops and some of the most important historic landmarks in Santiago.
Begin the adventure by boarding an air-conditioned minivan with a professional guide. The first thing you’ll see is the Moneda Palace, the current seat of the Chilean government and the home to the President of Chile. Next, you’ll approach the incredible Plaza De Armas, a central hub in the city that boasts remarkable structures like the National Cathedral. While you’re here in the Plaza De Armas, you can also explore the Central Post Office and the Museum of National History.
The next stop on the itinerary is the Parque Forest, a green public park that was loosely based on the designs for the Champs-Elysees in Paris, France. Wander through the lush greenery and admire the statues before heading to Bellavista, an artsy, bohemian neighborhood with an abundance of street art.
In order to enjoy some breathtaking, panoramic views over the city of Santiago, the tour will take you to the summit of Saint Lucia, a hill that offers vistas of both the city and the surrounding Andes Mountains. The final stop of the tour is the village of Los Graneros de Alba, a destination known for its handicrafts. Before you return back to your hotel in Santiago, spend some time in the village browsing for souvenirs and art that can remind you of your time visiting Chile.
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