Classic Chile highlights holiday
15 Days from £4,550 pp
Our classic Chile Highlights holiday takes you on a journey through some of the most iconic sights in South America. The ultimate holiday of contrasts, it invites you to amble through colourful city streets, cruise through icy fjords in Patagonia and stargaze and sunbathe in the Atacama Desert. To make our best Chile Highlights trip more affordable and sustainable, we include a mix of private and small-group tours, all led by expert guides.
Trip Highlights
- Stay amongst Luna landscapes and red rocks in the Atacama Desert
- Explore UNESCO protected Valparaiso on foot
- Experience the breathtaking glaciers of Patagonia up close
- Be amazed by the iconic Torres del Paine national park
Our Expert Tip
”Visiting the Moon Valley at sunrise, is a much less crowded way to experience one of the Atacama Desert’s most iconic landscapes”
Scarlett, Chile Expert
Detailed Classic chile highlights Itinerary
Day 1-2: Santiago
Start your Chile Highlights holiday in Santiago, a fantastic city to explore by foot independently or with our local guide. We will base you in a charming hotel in El Golf, an area know for its upscale buzz and beautiful tree-lined streets. Explore local markets and try some delicious local food in one of the cities renowned restaurants.
Day 2-4: Puerto Natales
Take a domestic flight to the intriguing port town of Puerto Natales, where your outdoor adventure really begins. We have included an amazing full-day boat trip to explore some of the most awe-inspiring glaciers in Chile; Balmaceda and Serrano.
Only accessed by water through hidden fjords, a trip to these glaciers offers something really different and unique. Away from tourist crowds, this is a chance to experience extraordinary natural beauty in peace.
Day 5-6: Torres del Paine
A highlight of any holiday to Chile, the mighty Torres del Paine National Park lies ahead. Staying in a comfortable hotel right inside the park and surrounded by stunning scenery, you’ll waste no time, with walking trails right on your doorstep.
We have kept your days here at leisure, meaning you can easily arrange activities directly with the hotel depending on your preferences. Choose from classic hikes such as Base of the Towers, boat trips to Grey Glacier, unique walking routes such as Pingo Valley and more challenging options. Looking to add on more time in Patagonia during your stay? Take a look at our Patagonia wilderness and wildlife holiday for more inspiration.
Day 7-9: Valparaiso
Mixing nature with city life, fly to back to the capital and transfer onwards to nearby Valparaiso. Explore this UNESCO-protected port city with your expert local guide on hand who will show you the highlights, as well as some off-the-beaten track, unique areas.
Include a visit to one of Chile’s most renowned wine regions (of course sampling some delicious wine as you go), ride the funicular up to the clouds for panoramic ocean views and be charmed by the colourful patchwork of houses that pepper the hillsides.
Day 10-13: Atacama
Your Chile Highlights holiday continues to showcase a wide range of landscapes as you fly north to one of the most spectacular regions in South America – the Atacama Desert.
With so much to see, do and explore here, you could easily fill a whole week. Float in the Cejar Lagoon surrounded by magnificent colours, marvel at the freshwater pools of Ojos del Salar, and watch the sunset at Tebinquiche Lagoon, where the salt flats shimmer pink, purple, and orange beneath the Andean sky.
Take a trip to the Moon Valley at sunrise with your guide, choose from a variety of hiking routes, go cycling and include some interesting cultural excursions by visiting a traditional ayllu community.
Day 14-15: Santiago
As your journey of contrasts and highlights comes to an end, finish back in Santiago. Spend one final night and day either relaxing before your flight home, or seeing more of what this fascinating city has to offer.
Ask our experts for any restaurant recommendations or rooftop bars to enjoy an Andes sundowner.
When to Go
Why Book With Travel Differently
Passionate and experienced
- Each member of the team has over a decade of experience in the industry
- Our 5* client reviews reflect our service & standards
- We are a fully independent & owner-run tour operator
- Our holidays include full financial protection & ATOL coverage
- We are destination experts, ensuring authentic & reliable advice
Committed and Responsible
Tailor-made and Personal
- No two trips are the same, our holidays are 100% bespoke
- We design personal, genuine cultural connections & experiences
- From planning to travel, you’ll have one dedicated point of contact
- Our support is available around the clock during your holiday
- We take care of the details, so you don’t have to
Need More Inspiration?
Want to combine multi-countries, take less flights, or include a hike in Patagonia? Thinking of a longer sabbatical holiday, or staying in some luxury yurts? It’s all possible; all our holidays are tailor-made with a focus on responsible travel. Take a look at more ideas below, and contact our experts.
The diversity of Chile is perfectly captured in this highlights itinerary. Tick off the otherworldly landscapes and steaming volcanoes of the Atacama, and the breathtaking lakes and shimmering glaciers of Patagonia, via the vibrant cities of Santiago and Valparaíso. Staying at good quality midrange hotels, not only ensures comfort but also allows you to save money for unforgettable experiences along the way.
Trip Highlights
- Discover the peaceful wonders of the Galapagos Archipelago away from crowds and big boats
- Meet locals, hear their stores, stay on their land and try delicious home cooked food
- Enjoy the thrill of paddleboarding along side sea turtles and blue footed boobies
- Jump on a bike for a unique foodie tour of colourful Colombian cities
Our Expert Tip
''While staying on Floreana Island, on a clear night step out of your cabin and experience the unique combination of stargazing to the sounds of the ocean and frolicking sealions. No where else on earth gives you this unique moment''
Sam
Detailed Classic Chile Highlights itinerary
When to Go
Includes
- All accommodation
- Excursions
- Transport
- Private guides
Excludes
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Visa cost
- Tips
Why Book With Travel Differently
Passionate and experienced
- Each member of the team has over a decade of experience in the industry
- Our 5* client reviews reflect our service & standards
- We are a fully independent & owner-run tour operator
- Our holidays include full financial protection & ATOL coverage
- We are destination experts, ensuring authentic & reliable advice
Committed and Responsible
Tailor-made and Personal
- No two trips are the same, our holidays are 100% bespoke
- We design personal, genuine cultural connections & experiences
- From planning to travel, you'll have one dedicated point of contact
- Our support is available around the clock during your holiday
- We take care of the details, so you don't have to
Need More Inspiration?
Want to combine multi-countries, take less flights, or include a hike in Patagonia? Thinking of a longer sabbatical holiday, or staying in some luxury yurts? It’s all possible; all our holidays are tailor-made with a focus on responsible travel. Take a look at more ideas below, and contact our experts.
