Chile & Argentina: 14 Days
Welcome to Chile, a land of stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history that stretches from the peaks of the Andes to the shores of the Pacific Ocean. Your journey through this diverse South American nation begins in Santiago, a dynamic metropolis nestled in the heart of the Central Valley. From the bustling streets of Santiago to the majestic beauty of the Atacama Desert and the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia, Chile offers an adventure like no other. From Chile’s Patagonia region, continue on to Argentina, exploring some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes this vibrant country has to offer. Begin your adventure in the breathtaking Los Glaciares National Park, soak up the cosmopolitan atmosphere in Buenos Aires, and conclude with the awe-inspiring majesty of Iguazu Falls. This itinerary offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and relaxation.
Day 1-3: Santiago
Begin your journey in Santiago, the vibrant capital city of Chile, and check into your hotel in the bustling city center or the trendy neighborhoods of Bellavista or Lastarria.
Explore the historic landmarks of Santiago, such as the Plaza de Armas, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Palacio de la Moneda, the seat of the Chilean government.
Take a ride on the funicular to the top of Cerro San Cristobal for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Andes Mountains.
Visit the bustling markets of Santiago, such as the Mercado Central and La Vega Central, where you can sample local produce, seafood, and traditional Chilean dishes.
Explore the vibrant arts and culture scene of Santiago with visits to museums, galleries, and cultural centers such as the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes and the Gabriela Mistral Cultural Center.
Day 4-5: Calama
Fly to Calama and transfer to the Atacama Desert, one of the driest places on Earth, and check into your hotel or lodge in the charming town of San Pedro de Atacama.
Explore the otherworldly landscapes of the Atacama Desert, with visits to iconic landmarks such as the Moon Valley, the Atacama Salt Flats, and the El Tatio Geysers.
Take a guided tour to the stunning Laguna Cejar and Ojos del Salar, where you can float in the salt-rich waters and admire panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape.
Visit the ancient indigenous village of Tulor and learn about the rich history and culture of the Atacama Desert's indigenous peoples.
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Atacama Desert at sunset, with opportunities for stargazing and astrophotography in one of the best places on Earth for observing the night sky.
Day 6-9: Patagonia Region
Fly to Punta Arenas and transfer to Torres del Paine National Park, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve and one of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world.
Check into your hotel or eco-lodge in the heart of Torres del Paine and spend your days exploring the park's breathtaking landscapes, including the iconic granite peaks of the Cuernos del Paine and the towering spires of the Torres del Paine.
Embark on guided hikes through the park, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as guanacos, foxes, condors, and possibly even pumas.
Take a boat trip to the base of the Grey Glacier and witness the immense power and beauty of one of the largest glaciers in the Southern Hemisphere.
Transfer to Los Glaciares National Park in El Calafate, Argentina, the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park. Spend your day settling into your accommodation and exploring the quaint town. Visit the Glaciarium, a modern museum dedicated to the understanding of glaciers and environmental awareness.
Dedicate your day to visiting the Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the park's most famous glaciers. Opt for a mini-trekking tour on the glacier itself or take a boat cruise along its towering front walls. The dynamic movements of Perito Moreno offer a spectacular display of calving ice chunks into the lake below.
Enjoy leisurely evenings at your lodge, with opportunities for relaxation, wildlife viewing, and star-gazing in this remote and pristine wilderness.
Day 10-12: Buenos Aires
Fly to Buenos Aires in the morning. After checking into your hotel, begin exploring the vibrant capital of Argentina. Start with a walking tour of the historic neighborhood of San Telmo and later enjoy a dinner and tango show, experiencing the passionate Argentine tango in its city of origin.
Spend a full day exploring Buenos Aires' highlights including the colorful houses of La Boca, the grand boulevards of Palermo, and the majestic Plaza de Mayo. In the evening, stroll through Puerto Madero and dine at one of the area’s upscale restaurants.
Day 13-14: Puerto Iguazú
Fly to Puerto Iguazú, the base for visiting Iguazu Falls. Relax and prepare for the next day's adventures, or explore the local surroundings, perhaps visiting the Guira Oga, a rehabilitation center for local wildlife.
Spend the day at Iguazu National Park exploring the Argentine side of the falls. Walk along the extensive trails to see the falls from various perspectives, including the exhilarating Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat), where the largest volume of water pours through Iguazu Falls.
In the morning, cross over to the Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls for panoramic views of the cascades. This side offers a different perspective, emphasizing the scale and grandeur of the falls. After your visit, proceed to the airport for your departure flight, carrying with you the memories of a spectacular Argentine adventure.
