Santiago, Atacama Desert & W Trek Patagonia 13 Days

What's Included?

• 3 Nights in Santiago
• 3 Nights in San Pedro de Atacama
• 2 Nights Accommodation in Puerto Natales (Breakfast Included)
• 4 nights in Torres del Paine National Park (Camping/Refugios)
• Airport transfers in / out
• Bilingual Tour guides (Spanish & English)
• Lunch in Full day excursion in Atacama (x2)
• Return Bus tickets between Puerto Natales and Torres del Paine National park
• All camping equipment when required (Tents, sleeping bags and pads)
• Catamaran ticket Pehoe Lake
• All meals as described on the itinerary

If you're eager to explore the diverse landscapes and vibrant cultures spanning the breadth of Chile, this is your chance to embark on an unforgettable journey. From the bustling heart of Santiago to the surreal expanses of the Atacama Desert and the untamed wilderness of Patagonia, this tour offers a comprehensive immersion into the country's rich tapestry of experiences.

Begin your adventure in Santiago, where the pulse of Chilean life beats strongest. Dive into the city's vibrant culture, sampling its diverse cuisine, exploring historic neighborhoods, and discovering iconic landmarks. Then, journey north to the Atacama Desert, a land of otherworldly beauty and stark contrasts. Here, crimson ravines, salt pans, and high-altitude geysers await, painting a surreal landscape that feels like stepping onto another planet.

Transitioning from the arid north to the pristine south, your expedition culminates in Patagonia's Torres del Paine National Park. Embark on the iconic W-Trek, trekking to the base of the towering granite spires, traversing the majestic French Valley, and witnessing the awe-inspiring Glacier Grey. Guided by expert local guides throughout, this tour promises an immersive exploration of Chile's diverse landscapes, cultures, and natural wonders, offering an unparalleled adventure from the center to the north and all the way to the southern tip of this captivating country.

Day 1: Santiago Arrival Adventure

Touch down in Santiago, where your adventure begins! Our friendly driver will whisk you away from the airport to your hotel, setting the stage for your exploration of this dynamic city.

No meals included

Day 2: Santiago Highlights Walking tour

Duration: 6 - 7 hours

Get ready to dive deep into the heart and soul of Santiago! Join us for a thrilling journey through the city's vibrant streets, guided by a local expert. From the colorful markets of Patronato to the historic landmarks of downtown, this tour promises an unforgettable experience, packed with cultural insights and fascinating stories.

Breakfast / Lunch Included

Day 3: Santiago to San Pedro de Atacama & Moon Valley Marvels

Duration: 4 Hours

After a hearty breakfast, it's time to jet off to San Pedro de Atacama! Brace yourself for an exhilarating adventure as we touch down in this otherworldly destination. Upon arrival, soak in the laid-back vibes and indulge in some local delights before embarking on an awe-inspiring tour of the Moon Valley, where surreal landscapes and breathtaking vistas await.

Breakfast Included

Day 4: Atacama Salt Flats & High Plateau Lakes

Duration: 10 hours

Rise and shine for a day of epic exploration! Prepare to be blown away as we journey through the mystical Salt Flats of the Atacama, a mesmerizing expanse of natural wonders and panoramic views. Keep your camera ready as we venture to the stunning lakes of Miscanti and Miñiques, where towering peaks and vibrant wildlife await your discovery.

Breakfast & Lunch Included

Day 5: Rainbow Valley Tours & Stargazing Spectacular

Duration: 7 hours

Prepare for one last hurrah in the Atacama Desert! Join us as we explore the vibrant hues of Rainbow Valley, a photographer's paradise filled with kaleidoscopic landscapes and surreal rock formations. As night falls, we'll journey into the desert for an unforgettable stargazing experience, where the twinkling constellations above will leave you breathless.

Breakfast & Lunch Included

Day 6: Tatio Geyser Tour & Farewell to Atacama

Duration: 6 hours

Early birds, rejoice! Today, we embark on a pre-dawn adventure to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Tatio Geysers at sunrise. Marvel at the geothermal wonders of this otherworldly landscape before returning to San Pedro for a day of relaxation. But the excitement doesn't end there! After an action-packed day, it's time to bid farewell to this enchanting region as we transfer you to Calama airport for your onward journey.

Breakfast Included

Day 7: Santiago to Puerto Natales. Arrival & Adventure Awaits

Gear up for the next leg of your journey as we jet off to Puerto Natales! Upon arrival, our team will be ready to whisk you away to your hotel. Take some time to soak in the breathtaking scenery and get ready for the adventures that await in Patagonia!

Breakfast Included

Day 8: Puerto Natales - Base of the Towers - Sector Torres

Hiking time 7 to 8 hours. 16 km/10 Miles and Elevation Gain of 700m/2295 ft

Our journey starts in the morning with a 2-hour drive to Torres del Paine National Park. Once we arrive at the Park entrance and go through formalities we will continue to Refugio Torre Central from where we will be starting our trek.

The first part of the hike along the banks of the Ascencio River is a gradual climb and fairly easy. After two hours we will reach Refugio Chileno and take a short break before starting for the towers. The towers are about another 2 hours hike to the viewpoint where we will have lunch and enjoy the fantastic views. After lunch, we will hike back all the way to Torres Sector.

Lunch/ Dinner included

Day 9: Sector Torres - Sector Frances

Hiking time 7-8 hours. 18km /11 miles and 150m Elevation Gain

The trail today follows around the base of the famous Mt Almirante Nieto (2750 m / 8759 ft) and along the shores of Nordenskjold Lake. The open country and miniature windswept forests and interspersed grasslands give one a good feel of what a vast portion of Patagonia is like. The hike itself to Domo Frances is moderate and you will be reaching camp before dinner time.

Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner included

Day 10: Sector Francés - Sector Paine Grande

Hiking time 7-8 hours. 14km /8.5 miles and 400m Elevation Gain

Our day starts with a 45 min hike to the Italiano camping site. Once we reach the camp we will drop our bags by the Ranger's house and start our hike to the French Valley lookout point. Enjoy the view as you see hanging glaciers and spot avalanches.

Optional hike: Britanico lookout point

After lunch, we will start our descent from the lookout and continue until we reach the Refugio Paine Grande.

Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner included

Day 11: Sector Paine Grande - Sector Grey

Hiking time 3-4 hours. 11km /7 miles and 400m Elevation Gain

After breakfast, we start our trek towards Refugio Grey where one can often see the ice from the glacier crash into the lake and floating icebergs are common. After lunch, free time to explore the area.

Afternoon, we have the option to do the Ice hike on Grey Glacier at an extra cost of $289 or a Kayak Tour for $189, prices are per person.

Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner included

Day 12: Sector Grey to Puerto Natales

Hiking time 3-4 hours. 11km /7 miles and 400m Elevation Gain

Morning: We have the option to do the Ice hike on Grey Glacier at an extra cost of $289 or take a Kayak tour for $189, prices are per person.

We get back on the same trail until we reach Refugio and board the 6:30 p.m. Catamaran across Lake Pehoe and arrive back in Puerto Natales late in the evening for your last night.

Breakfast/ Lunch included

Day 13: Depart Puerto Natales - Adios Patagonia!

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. According to your flight time, we will pick you up at your hotel for your transfer to the airport.

Breakfast included

Exclusions

• International & Domestic Flights
• Late check-out
• Travel insurance
• Meals (unless otherwise stated)
• Incidental expenses, e.g tips, beverages etc.
• Others not mentioned
• Internet at the Refugios
• Personal expenses
• Alcoholic drinks
• Tips
• Trekking Poles
• Crampons (For winter months)
• Porters ($150 per day)
• Torres del Paine National Park Tickets (Book Here)

The following are what we advise you obtain in the way of equipment and gear before trekking in Patagonia, and are meant to keep you mobile and comfortable in a range of expected weather conditions.

On the Trail Daypack

• Extra layers
• Windbreaker
• Poncho
• Gloves
• Sunscreen
• Lip Balm with Sunscreen
• Broad brimmed hat or bandana (for sun protection)
• Iodine Water Tablets (personal preference)
• Water Bottles or Camel Back
• Sunglasses
• Headlamp with extra batteries Favorite Snacks
• Waterproof bags to protect electronics or paperwork
• Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
• Umbrella (works great in a light rain or to protect from the sun)
• Toilet Paper
• Thermos (optional for hot beverages)
• Small Lock(s) for day pack
• Waterproof cover for daypack

Clothing: Base, Middle, and Outer Layers

• Moisture-wicking long sleeve tee-shirts (1) Moisture wicking tee-shirts (1)
• Long underwear pants (1)
• Underwear (3 to 4)
• Heavy Fleece or Down Jacket
• Long sleeve shirts (2)
• Sweatshirt (optional)
• Fleece Pants (Winter Treks)
• Trekking Pants (2)
• Shorts (optional)
• Gore Tex or Waterproof Jacket with hood
• Rain Poncho that covers your daypack
• Waterproof Pants
• Wide-brimmed hat
• Wool hat (Should cover ears) or Balaclava
• Lightweight Gloves
• Insulated Wool or Down Mittens (Winter Treks)
• Gaiters (optional)

Footwear: Shoes and Socks

• Hiking boots with ankle support
• Camp shoes or Tennis Shoes
• Plastic bag to carry spare shoes Hiking socks (6)
• Sock Liners (optional)

First Aid Kit and Toiletries

• Advil or Ibuprofen
• Personal Prescriptions
• Medical Tape (for preventing treating blisters)
• Antibiotics (Cipro for travelers' diarrhea)
• Diaper Rash Cream (Can treat rashes or chaffing)
• Basic toiletries (Soap, Deodorant...)
• Wet wipes
• Panty Liners and Tampons
• Face lotion
• Hairbrush
• Hair ties
• Hand warmers
• Ear plugs for sleeping
• Sunscreen
• Lip Balm with sunscreen
• Toilet paper
• Towel

Paperwork and Money

• Passport (needed at entry gate for registration) Spending Money around $200

Other Items

• Portable Solar Charger Journal, pen and paper
• Drybags
• Stuff sacks for dirty clothes/shoes