Santiago, Chile: 5 Days and 4 Nights
Overview
Experience the ultimate Chilean adventure, traveling from the driest desert in the world to the breathtaking glaciers of Patagonia, and ending on the mystical Easter Island.
Start in Santiago, Chile’s vibrant capital, before heading north to the Atacama Desert, a surreal landscape of Mars-like valleys, geysers, and lagoons. Witness the clearest night skies on Earth during an unforgettable stargazing tour.
Then, venture to the untamed beauty of Patagonia, where you’ll explore massive glaciers, turquoise lakes, and snow-capped peaks in Torres del Paine National Park—one of the world’s most stunning natural reserves.
Finally, travel to Easter Island, home to the legendary Moai statues and rich Polynesian culture. Discover its ancient mysteries, volcanic craters, and pristine beaches.
This journey is designed for adventurers, nature lovers, and culture enthusiasts seeking an immersive experience in Chile’s most iconic landscapes. Secure your spot now and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the heart of South America!
12 DAYS BOLIVIA AND CHILE TOUR
Places to visit:
Santiago, Viña del Mar, Valparaíso, Atacama Desert (Stargazing, Altiplanic Lagoons, Red Rocks, Tatio Geysers, Moon Valley), Patagonia (Torres del Paine National Park, Milodon Cave, Balmaceda & Serrano Glaciers), and Easter Island.
Accommodation:
Mix of hotels in Santiago with breakfast included.
Trip starts in:
Santiago Airport (SCL)
Physical Level:
Low: Santiago city tour, Viña del Mar & Valparaíso, Moon Valley, Balmaceda & Serrano Glacier navigation.
Medium: Altiplanic Lagoons (altitude 4,200m), Tatio Geysers (altitude 4,300m), Torres del Paine National Park.
Flights included:
No, airfare is not included.
Meals:
Breakfast included at all hotels. Lunch included on the Altiplanic Lagoons tour. Box lunch included on the Torres del Paine tour. Lunch included on the Balmaceda & Serrano Glacier navigation tour. Other meals and drinks are not included.
Places to visit:
Travel without worries, our team will pick you up at the airport in Santiago
Places to visit:
All our guides are English speaking professionals. Say goodbye to the fear of not knowing what "Che" means..
Places to visit:
This tour ensures that you will see 24 attractions or tourist sites in Chile. The most complete tour to Chile of all!
ITINERARY: From the Atacama Desert to Patagonia & Easter Island
Day 1: Arrival in Santiago
Welcome to Santiago, Chile’s dynamic capital! Upon arrival at Santiago International Airport (SCL), you will be greeted and transferred to your selected hotel.
Day 2: Santiago – HD Panoramic City Tour (AM) – HD Concha & Toro Winery Tour (PM)
After breakfast, explore Santiago on a half-day panoramic city tour, where history meets modernity. Highlights include:
- La Moneda Palace, Chile’s government headquarters
- Plaza de Armas, the historic heart of the city
- Central Market, a lively hub of Chilean gastronomy
- Santa Lucía Hill, where Santiago was founded
- Visit a lapis lazuli craft store, famous for its unique Chilean jewelry
In the afternoon, visit Concha & Toro Winery, one of the world’s most renowned vineyards.
- Stroll through the European-style gardens and Pirque Manor House, a 19th-century architectural gem.
- Learn about the Cabernet Sauvignon vines that produce some of Chile’s best wines.
- Discover the legend of “Casillero del Diablo”, the story behind one of Chile’s most famous wines.
- Enjoy a premium wine tasting.
Overnight in Santiago.
Day 3: Santiago – FD Viña del Mar & Valparaíso
After breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion to Viña del Mar & Valparaíso (lunch not included).
- Valparaíso, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its colorful hillside houses, funiculars, and artistic vibe.
- Viña del Mar, Chile’s most famous beach city, known as the Garden City for its green parks and floral landscapes. Visit:
- Flower Clock, an iconic landmark
- Fonck Museum, home to an authentic Easter Island Moai
- Quinta Vergara, a cultural park and amphitheater
- Playa Los Cañones, a scenic Pacific Ocean beach
Overnight in Santiago.
Day 4: Santiago – Calama – San Pedro de Atacama – Stargazing Tour
After breakfast, transfer to Santiago Airport for your flight to Calama. Upon arrival, transfer to San Pedro de Atacama, a desert oasis town.
In the evening, embark on an unforgettable stargazing experience in the Atacama Desert, one of the best places on Earth to observe the night sky.
- Learn the basics of astronomy.
- Observe planets, nebulae, and constellations through professional telescopes.
- Enjoy breathtaking views of the Milky Way, thanks to minimal light pollution.
Overnight in San Pedro de Atacama.
Day 5: San Pedro de Atacama – FD Altiplanic Lagoons & Red Rocks
After breakfast, enjoy a full-day tour to the Altiplanic Lagoons and Red Rocks, with stops at:
- Los Flamencos National Reserve, home to stunning pink flamingos.
- Miscanti & Miñiques Lagoons, framed by volcanoes and Andean landscapes.
- Red Rocks, a surreal landscape of oxidized volcanic lava.
Day 6: San Pedro de Atacama – FD Tatio Geysers & Machuca – HD Moon Valley
Early morning departure for a full-day adventure:
- Tatio Geysers, one of the largest geothermal fields in the world, with over 70 fumaroles shooting steam into the sky at sunrise.
- Machuca Village, a small Andean town known for its traditional adobe houses and local handicrafts.
- Return to San Pedro de Atacama for a short rest.
- In the afternoon, visit the Moon Valley, a breathtaking geological formation in the Salt Mountain Range. Watch the sunset as the landscape transforms into shades of red and gold.
Overnight in San Pedro de Atacama.
Day 7: San Pedro de Atacama – Calama – Santiago – Punta Arenas – Puerto Natales
After breakfast, transfer to Calama Airport for your flight back to Santiago, then connect to Punta Arenas.
Upon arrival, transfer to the bus terminal to board a regular bus to Puerto Natales (3-hour journey).
Upon arrival in Puerto Natales, transfer to your selected hotel.
Overnight in Puerto Natales.
Day 8: Puerto Natales – FD Torres del Paine & Milodon Cave
After breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion to Torres del Paine National Park, one of the world’s most stunning natural reserves. Highlights include:
- Milodon Cave, where remains of an extinct giant sloth were discovered.
- Lake Nordenskjöld, a glacial lake with stunning turquoise waters.
- Salto Grande Waterfall, a powerful cascade within the park.
- Laguna Amarga, a scenic lagoon reflecting the iconic Torres del Paine peaks.
Box lunch included. Return to Puerto Natales for overnight stay.
Day 9: Puerto Natales – FD Balmaceda & Serrano Glacier Navigation
Set sail on a full-day navigation through the Última Esperanza Fjord, reaching the Balmaceda & Serrano Glaciers, part of the Bernardo O’Higgins National Park.
- Observe Imperial Cormorants, sea lions, and Andean wildlife along the way.
- View Balmaceda Glacier from the boat.
- Disembark for a 20-minute hike to Serrano Glacier, where you can see the glacial lagoon formed by its melting ice.
Lunch included. Return to Puerto Natales for overnight stay.
Day 10: Puerto Natales – Punta Arenas – Departure
At the scheduled time, transfer to the Puerto Natales Bus Terminal to board a regular bus to Punta Arenas Airport (3-hour journey), where you will take your return flight.
End of Services.
Atacama Desert to Patagonia & Easter Island Tour Inclusions
BELOW, WE OUTLINE WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE 10-DAY CHILE PATAGONIA - EASTER ISLAND TOUR
INCLUSIONS
- Santiago Airport / Hotel Transfer
- HD Santiago City Tour
- HD Concha & Toro Winery Tour (Premium Wine Tasting)
- FD Viña del Mar & Valparaíso
- Hotel Santiago / Santiago Airport Transfer
- Calama Airport / San Pedro de Atacama Hotel Transfer
- Stargazing Tour in Atacama Desert
- FD Altiplanic Lagoons & Red Rocks with Lunch (Entry & Lunch Included)
- FD Tatio Geysers & Machuca (Entry Included)
- HD Moon Valley (Entry Included)
- Bus Ticket: Punta Arenas → Puerto Natales
- Bus Ticket: Puerto Natales → Punta Arenas Airport
NOT INCLUDED
- Airfare tickets.
- Meals and beverages not specified in the program.
- Voluntary tips.
WHAT TO PACK FOR PATAGONIA, EASTER ISLAND
SANTIAGO CHILE
Essential Items
- Passport, travel documents, and cash
- Credit/debit cards
- Power adapter (Type C & L, 220V)
- Reusable water bottle
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+), lip balm, and moisturizer
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Small backpack (20-30L) for day tours
- Dry bag for Patagonia’s boat tours
Clothing by Destination
Santiago & Viña del Mar/Valparaíso (Mild & Urban)
- Light jacket or sweater
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Casual outfits
Atacama Desert (Hot Days, Cold Nights)
- Warm layers for cold nights
- Breathable long-sleeve shirts and hiking pants
- Hat, scarf, gloves for early morning excursions
- Hiking boots or sturdy shoes
Patagonia (Cold, Windy & Rainy)
- Waterproof and windproof jacket
- Base layers and fleece mid-layer
- Waterproof hiking pants and gloves
- Warm hat and wool socks
- Waterproof hiking boots
Easter Island (Warm & Humid)
- Lightweight, breathable clothing
- Swimwear, towel, and sandals
- Bug spray and water shoes
Health & First Aid
- Personal medications
- Motion sickness and altitude sickness pills
- Basic first-aid kit and blister plasters
Electronics & Extras
- Camera and extra memory cards
- Power bank
- Travel journal or book
Packing Tips
- Use packing cubes for organization
- Layer clothing for different climates
- Pack light; laundry services are available
- Choose quick-dry fabrics
Atacama Desert to Patagonia & Easter Island tour Gallery
Pricing Policies
PAYMENT
To confirm the agreed travel contract, a non-refundable pre-payment of 30% of the costs per person must be paid. The remaining balance must be paid no later than 60 days before departure of the tour for all mainland tours in Ecuador and 90 days before departure for all travel to the Galápagos Islands and mainland tours in a South American destination except Ecuador.
If the client concludes his travel arrangements with RT less than 60 days before the departure date for mainland travel in Ecuador, or 90 days for the Galápagos Islands or a mainland tour in any South American destination except Ecuador, the tour must be paid in full immediately.
If a client fails to pay for his/her tour in full before the agreed final payment dates (60 days before departure for mainland travel in Ecuador and 90 days before departure for Galápagos Island or a mainland travel in South America except Ecuador) the client risks losing his/her tour. Equally, by failing to make the full payment before the due date, the client will lose his/her deposits for all travelers included in the reservation.
If the tour fee has not been paid in full before the arranged travel start, RT will be released from its service obligations and may require the customer to pay any appropriate resignation costs.
RESIGNATION BY THE CUSTOMER
The customer can withdraw from the contract at any time before beginning the tour however this must be done in writing.
Refunds can only be made under the following cancellation guidelines, as pre-tour costs will be incurred and cannot be recuperated by RT.
Cancellation Fees may vary for certain custom itinerary tours; your Responsible Travel Specialist consultant will specify cancellation fees before making your reservation.
Therefore, the following refunds can be given for cancelled tours:
a) For mainland tours in Ecuador which do not include boat trips / cruises:
60 days or more before departure:
Full refund, excluding the nonrefundable prepayment of 30%.
From 59 to 21 days before departure:
Refund of 60% of the travel price
From 20 to 10 days before departure:
Refund of 50% of the travel price
From 9 to 5 days before departure:
Refund of 20% of the travel price
From 4 days until departure;
0% will be refunded
b) For journeys that include boat trips / cruises (Galapagos), the following conditions apply:
90 days or more before departure:
Full Refund excluding the nonrefundable prepayment of 30%.
From 89 to 60 days before departure:
Refund of 50% of the travel price
From 59 to 40 days before departure:
Refund of 40% of the travel price
From 39 to 31 days before departure:
Refund of 30% of the travel price
From 30 days until departure date:
0% will be refunded
Important: Please note that for Galápagos Charters, the cancellation fees can vary according to the chosen boat and therefore will be confirmed individually.
c) For mainland tours in a South American destination (excepting Ecuador):
90 days or more before departure:
Full Refund excluding minimum cancellation fee of USD $50 per person
From 89 to 31 days before departure:
Refund of 80% of the travel price
From 30 to 10 days before departure:
Refund of 50% of the travel price
From 9 to 5 days before departure:
Refund of 20% of the travel price
From 4 days until departure:
0% will be refunded
