Andes to Atlantic

During our stay in Santiago we drive south from the city to the Concha y Toro winery located in Pirque, in Maipo Canyon. Founded in 1883, this is one of Chile’s most famous vineyards. The cellars, built with materials dating back to the 18th century, are situated six metres underground to maintain the ideal temperature needed for fine wines. We stroll around this beautiful estate before moving to the cellars, where some of the different stages involved in the local winemaking process are explained. And finally, we have the opportunity to taste some of the wines that have made this place so famous. Returning to the city we start our exploration of the Chilean capital. This city has experienced a turbulent history that has included native wars, floods and earthquakes. A walking tour takes us to many of the outstanding attractions in the city centre before we drive through the main avenues of the old districts, across the Bohemian neighbourhood of Bellavista and up San Cristobal Hill for a magnificent panoramic view of the city and the Andes Mountain Range. Then we visit the modern parts of Santiago to see elegant residential neighbourhoods, as well as shopping and financial districts. The tour ends at the artisan village of Los Graneros Del Alba, where the craftsmen can be seen at work. Here, we also have time to walk around or do some shopping.

In the morning we are transferred back to Santiago airport for our flight to Puerto Montt. We are then transfered to Puerto Varas nestled on the shores of Lake Llanquihue, one of the largest natural lakes in South America. The city is well known for its German traditions, its food, its fish and seafood and its superb natural environment. The perfect cone of Osorno volcano and the snowcapped peaks of Mt. Calbuco and Mt. Tronador are clearly visible from the lakefront. We have a free day in Puerto Varas for some optional activities such as a hike to the Orsono Volcano, or a visit to Chiloé Island. Alternatively you may just want to sit back, relax and take in the stunning views from Puerto Varas.

Today we take the regular boat and bus crossing service from Chile to Argentina via the Todos Los Santos, Frias and Nahuel Huapi Lakes and so to the Argentinean alpine city of Bariloche. The scenery on this day will be stunning so make sure you have your camera handy.

Bariloche has a distinctly alpine feel to it. It is set on the shores of the Nahuel Huapi Lake, the largest lake in Nahuel Huapi National Park, and only 16 kilometres away from Cerro Cathedral. It is also one of the most popular winter ski resort areas in Argentina. We have time this morning for some optional excursions that include exploring the town, visiting the Patagonian Museum or taking a hike to the top of Cerro Otto, located eight kilometres from town. There is a cable car there that takes us to the top for a great view over the lake and town. If you have a sweet tooth, then the chocolate is something that is not to be missed! In the late afternoon we fly to Buenos Aires.

Buenos Aires is Argentina’s capital and home to 13 million portenos (inhabitants). It has been shaped by a history that was riddled with conflict and struggles and even the achievement of independence in 1816 did not resolve ongoing disputes between local residents and conservative provincial landowners. Following a succession of military juntas, Argentina now has a stable, democratic government. Our tour of the city combines bus transportation and walking, and takes us to the districts of Recoleta with its famous cemetery often referred to as a miniature city-within-a-city, because to its size. We also visit Palermo, Plaza San Martin, Plaza De Mayo and the colourful neighbourhood of La Boca. There may also be an opportunity (this will be at an additional cost) to visit the Costanera Sur Bird Sanctuary, Tigre Delta or Madero Harbour. Our adventure comes to an end on the morning of Day 8 after breakfast.