Slow Travel: Chile in-depth
22 days from £7,340 pp
Discover Chile’s dramatic landscapes and fascinating cultures on this leisurely-paced holiday, travelling slower and experiencing more. Journey to a hidden retreat to escape the crowds and immerse in nature. Be wowed by an in-depth Atacama experience, taking you beyond the usual highlights in one of South America’s most stunning settings. Continue south to the Lake District and Chiloe on an epic self-drive adventure, covering evergreen forests, glassy lakes and waterfalls. Hike, bike, raft, and climb. This is Chile in-depth, done differently.
Trip Highlights
- Slow down and explore Chile at a more enjoyable and meaningful pace
- Stargaze at one of the world’s premier astronomical sites
- Discover wild landscapes and ancient cultures of the Atacama
- Enjoy the freedom of a self- drive adventure through Chile’s Lake District at your own pace
Our Expert Tip
”Fall asleep under the stars in the Elqui Valley, gazing through the open roof of your dome and savouring the total absence of light pollution”
Scarlett, Patagonia Expert
Detailed Slow Travel: Chile in-depth Itinerary
Day 1-2: Santiago
Your slow travel Chile in-depth holiday begins in Santiago, the fascinating capital of Chile. We have chosen a lovely eco-boutique hotel, perfectly located to explore independently.
Heading out with an expert local guide, discover the highlights of vibrant Valparaiso witnessing the patchwork of multi coloured houses that cover the hills after catching a funicular to see amazing views of the Pacific Ocean.
Day 3-6: Elqui Valley
For something really unique and off the tourist trail, fly north where your home for the next three nights will be an amazing domed hotel, tucked between the dramatic Andes Mountains.
Taking you away from crowds, experience the peace and tranquility of zero-light pollution stargazing at Mamalluca Observatory. This is the birthplace of Chile’s national spirit pisco, which you can learn more about on a fascinating tour, and of course sample a couple of these delicious drinks.
This hidden retreat nestled in stunning scenery offers bike rides, horse-riding and some incredible walking trails to viewpoints. Or choose to relax, do very little and enjoy your surroundings.
Day 7-11: Atacama
Your slow travel Chile in-depth holiday continues to add contrast as you head to the striking Atacama Desert, the driest desert on earth. Here we have really slowed down the pace so you can do things properly and unhurried.
Visit the high-altitude lagoons of Miscanti and Miniques, take a sunrise tour to the steaming Geysers del Tatio, choose from some all-day hikes and gentle strolls, gallop through the desert on horse-back, go cycling with your guide and end one evening at the dramatic Moon Valley and Mars Valley for sunset.
This is the best way to explore all The Atacama Desert has to offer. A slower pace, offering you time to also relax at your hotel at the end of each thrilling excursion.
Day 12-14: Pucon
From the red-rock desert to the fresh green alpine setting of Chile’s Lake District, your slow holiday continues south with a flight to Pucon. Widely known as the adventure capital of Chile, we have allowed for 10 days of outdoor adventures in nature and thrilling excursions.
The best way to cover such distances at a leisurely pace is by self-drive – we will arrange your car hire with instructions on collection. Embrace the best of Chile’s nature and scenery, walking through evergreen forests, sailing over glassy lakes and finding dramatic waterfalls. Adrenaline-filled rafting, gentle walks, longer hikes and even rock climbing is on offer in this outdoor adventure playground.
Soak up some Chilean history by learning about the cultural heritage of the Mapuche people, the largest indigenous group in the country.
Day 15-17: Chiloè
Continue your self-drive adventure driving south and connect onto a morning ferry to the mysterious island of Chiloè: a place of wild beauty, myths and traditions.
Do things differently during your time here by getting off-the-beaten-path with a local guide who will show you heritage buildings, ancient villages and the coastal wetlands.
Immerse deeper into local cultures by visiting a family to learn more about ancient farming and traditions which are still seen today.
Day 18-20: Puerto Varas
Drive onwards and catch a ferry to the unique town of Puerto Varas, steeped in German colonial influences and surrounded by glistening lakes. As well as some incredible hiking routes available, you have the chance to connect to the region on a deeper level by learning more about the traditions of the Mapuche Huilliche, the ancestral people of Southern Chile.
Central to our ethos of leaving a destination having learned more about the people there, this tour offers a fascinating insight into their way of life and customs, offering a meaningful connection to this wonderful local community. Thinking of including Torres Del Paine into your in-depth Chile holiday? Take a look at some of our other trips which include more of Patagonia and ask our experts to learn more.
Day 21-22: Santiago
Drop off your hire car as your slow travel Chile holiday comes to an end. Fly back to Santiago to spend one last night relaxing after your in-depth adventure.
Let our experts know if you would prefer a private guide, or would like any restaurant recommendations. There are some fantastic places in the city to try delicious Chilean cuisine.
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.
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.
