Chile & Argentina Wine Adventure

Spend ten blissful days savoring renowned wines and culinary pleasures in the premium wine-producing regions of Chile and Argentina. With the Andes as backdrop, you'll visit fifteen wineries and linger over gourmet meals in picturesque vineyard settings to get a delicious introduction to two world-class wine regions and the best of their bounty. But it's not all about food and drink. These Chile Argentina tours include history and culture too with a visit on either end to two of South Am... READ MORE >>
Itinerary
Day 1 ARRIVE SANTIAGO – CITY TOUR – LUNCH AND WINE TASTING AT BOCANARIZ
Day 2 CASABLANCA VALLEY AND VALPARAISO
Day 3 MAIPO AND COLCHAGUA VALLEYS
Day 4 COLCHAGUA VALLEY
Day 5 SANTIAGO - MENDOZA
Day 6 CLASSIC AGRELO WINE TASTING
Day 7 BOUTIQUE WINERIES OR MENDOZA HIKING + RICCITELLI VINEYARD
Day 8 MENDOZA - BUENOS AIRES – VIP TANGO SHOW
Day 9 THE FOUR BALCONIES OF BUENOS AIRES
Day 10 BUENOS AIRES - HOME
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Itinerary
Day 1 ARRIVE SANTIAGO – CITY TOUR – LUNCH AND WINE TASTING AT BOCANARIZ
Your guide will meet you at the Santiago airport and accompany you to your hotel.  After getting settled you'll take a guided tour of the historical and cultural highlights of South America’s most modern city before enjoying a wine-tasting lunch at Bocanariz. (L)
Day 2 CASABLANCA VALLEY AND VALPARAISO
In the morning, you'll depart from your hotel to the Pacific coast for today's Chile tours, making a stop along the way at Bodegas RE in the Casablanca Valley.  This cool-climate region in the pre-coastal mountain range is home to Chile’s premier white and light-bodied red wines. Bodegas RE is helmed by Pablo Morande, the famed ninth-generation wine maker, and his children who use traditional clay pots to produce fascinating single varietals and uncommon blends.
 
On reaching the coast, you'll explore Valparaiso, one of the first port cities of South America founded by the Spanish and now a UNESCO World Heritage site.  For lunch, you'll enjoy Turri Rest (or similar) with a stellar menu of Chilean classics. After lunch, you'll tour the Concepcion and Alegre neighborhoods on foot and ride the century-old historic hillside ascensors (elevators). Return to Santiago for the evening. (B,L)
 
Please note: Wineries subject to change without notice. Many wineries are closed on Sundays and holidays.
Day 3 MAIPO AND COLCHAGUA VALLEYS
You'll being the day in the Maipo Valley, the "cradle of Chilean wine-making."  The oldest and most famous of Chile wine regions, it is home to some of the country's most traditional wineries as well as many boutique wineries that have opened over the past ten years and produce some of the region's best premium wines.  The first stop of the day is Santa Rita in Maipo Valley. One of the valley’s oldest wineries, Santa Rita was founded in 1880 and is one of the most popular Chilean wines on the international market. Featuring a strong lineup of exceptional wines including the ultra-premium Pehuén Carménère, which garnered 91 points from Wine Spectator, Santa Rita cultivates century old wines and utilizes modern techniques to produce true enological masterpieces. 
 
Later you’ll  then head south to the Colchagua Valley and visit the family-run Viu Manent. Founded in 1935, this winery has built its reputation around attention to detail, regard for the environment, and respect for tradition while embracing innovation and modernity for continued excellence. Viu Manent wines have won several honors, including Gold Medal distinction at the 2011 Catador W Santiago Wine Awards for its Gran Reserva Malbec (2010), Secreto de Viu Manent Sauvignon Blanc (2011) and Secreto de Viu Manent Syrah (2010).Topping off the Viu Manent tastings, you will enjoy a delicious lunch at the winery. Finish the day at your comfortable Santa Cruz accommodations. (B,L)
 
Please note: Wineries subject to change without notice. Many wineries are closed on Sundays and holidays.
Day 4 COLCHAGUA VALLEY
The Colchagua Valley is emerging as the new center of the universe for Chilean reds, and today’s Chile wine tours will prove that title is well deserved. The day begins with a visit to Neyen de Apalta, which produces one Bordeaux-style blend from 115 year-old Carménère vines. Neyen is the perfect blend of tradition and modernity, founded by the Rojas family in 2002 on the site of one of the area’s pioneering 19th century wineries. Next we visit the Montes winery, founded in 1988 by esteemed Chilean winemaker, Aurelio Montes, and three business partners with years of oenological experience. Over the past two decades, Viña Montes has played a key role in propelling the Chilean wine industry to the international acclaim it enjoys today. Enjoy lunch at Montes before finishing the day at Vina Clos Apalta, founded in 1994 by Alexandra Marnier-Lapostolle (of the Grand Marnier family). The winery produces some of Chile’s best QPR (quality/price ratio) wines. Since the outstanding debut of its 1997 vintage, Casa Lapostolle's Clos Apalta has helped to establish Colchagua as a premier red wine region. Owner Marnier-Lapostolle and her team have created a distinctive blend of Carmenère, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon, utilizing cutting-edge techniques such as hand-de-stemming of the grapes and a gravity-flow winery. The 2005 Clos Apalta received 96 points from the “Wine Spectator” in 2008. Return to your comfortable Santa Cruz accommodations. (B,L)
Please note: Wineries subject to change without notice. Many wineries are closed on Sundays and holidays.
Day 5 SANTIAGO - MENDOZA

From your hotel, you'll be transported to the Santiago International Airport for your flight to begin your Argentina travel. Arriving in Mendoza, you'll check in at the world-class Park Hyatt Hotel before touring this sophisticated scenic city. (B)

Day 6 CLASSIC AGRELO WINE TASTING
Today’s classic Argentina wine tours take you about 20 miles south of Mendoza to the Lujan de Cuyo wine region. You’ll taste offerings from three exceptional wineries in the Agrelo sub-appellation where Malbec reigns supreme.

Benegas Winery                                                    
This traditional winery belonged to the family of Gladys Alurralde Norton, mother of current owner Federico J. Benegas Lynch. Federico was actually born in the properties main house, where he still lives to this day. Throughout his childhood he worked every step of the way, helping his father in the winemaking process. Benegas is focused on quality and celebrating its Finca Libertad terroir. They believe in the judicious use of oak, maintaining it as a background component in the wine. Tannins should be balanced and the finish long. Their total production is only 30,000 cases. Michelle Roland says, “Benegas wines have a strong personality which is the result of a very unique terroir for its quality and the combination of French and Argentine traditions. The wines are a reflection of Frederico Benegas Lynch’s passion and his constant search for excellence.”
 
Matervinis Winery                           
This new boutique winery is dedicated to experimental soils. Their founders, however, are not new to the winemaking world: Santiago Achaval and Roberto Chipresso former owners, founder and winemakers of acclaimed Achaval Ferrer. Today, through their new project, they aim to the exploration of the oldest geologies of Pre-Cordillera soils and their impact on wine personality and flavors. With a very limited production of wines and concentrating in high quality, these pioneers are already making a revolution in the industry.
 
Finca Decero Winery
Once a bare patch of dirt in the foothills of the Andes, Finca Decero is now a one-of-a-kind vineyard, where each vine is nurtured by hand and the winemaking is without compromise. Free from restraint and tradition, the creators of the winery developed an ‘amano' or ‘by hand' approach that is human, sustainable and sensitive to natural differences. Enjoy a fresh, seasonal lunch designed to perfectly compliment the wine you’ll be tasting. At the end of today’s Argentina tours, travel back to your hotel for a free evening. (B,L)
 
Please note: Wineries subject to change without notice. Many wineries are closed on Sundays and holidays.
 
Day 7 BOUTIQUE WINERIES OR MENDOZA HIKING + RICCITELLI VINEYARD
Option 1: Boutique Wineries 
This morning you will meet your driver and set out to discover small boutique wineries and those estates that make small lots of hand-crafted wines. We will again be in the famed Lujan de Cuyo wine growing region with a focus on the Maipu sub-appelation.
 
Maal Wines
Among these gems, Maal Wines stands out distinctly. This winery showcases unique charm as it's been carefully constructed from repurposed materials. The entire architectural wonder is ingeniously fashioned from reclaimed shipping containers, reflecting sustainable practices. Maal Wines specializes solely in crafting fine Malbecs sourced from diverse vineyards across Mendoza. This focus on the full expression of a single varietal, Argentina’s most famous, will showcase the role that terroir and process play in creating world-class wines. Maal is committed to certifying all their vineyards as organic, reflecting their dedication to premium quality and environmentally conscious methods.
 
Lamadrid Wines
Heading to Vistalba, Lujan de Cuyo, you'll find Lamadrid Wines, with a historical connection dating back to the 1930s. Thoughtfully restored, the winery preserves its past with original red brick floors, wooden ceilings, and inviting internal patios, while embracing the future with their wines. Lamadrid Wines goes beyond the norm, inviting you to savor varietals like Bonarda and Cabernet Franc.
 
Mil Suelos  - Visit and Lunch paired with wines
Step into Mil Suelos, translated as "1,000 Soils," a tribute to visionaries Alejandro Sejanovich and Jeff Mausbach, known for encapsulating terroir essence in every bottle. Mil Suelos is dedicated to diverse appellations, a haven for terroir-focused wine creations. Small-scale, artisanal vinification define their approach, each batch exuding a unique sense of place. Beyond wines, Mil Suelos offers a culinary delight. Set in a century-old olive grove in Chachingo, Mendoza, their open-air restaurant excels at Argentina’s famous wood-fired cookery. This culinary experience is complemented by an extensive portfolio of wines crafted on-site. Indulge in a dining experience that fuses tradition, innovation, and vibrant flavors of Mendoza's high-altitude wine country.

Please note: Wineries subject to change without notice. Many wineries are closed on Sundays and holidays.

Option 2: Mendoza Hiking + Riccitelli Vineyard
Today we will hike in the Andean foothills before enjoying a wine tasting lunch at one of Mendoza’s premier boutique wineries. Just one hour from the city of Mendoza is La Crucecita Village, a very picturesque village with stone houses. This is a popular hiking trail for locals with several options available to reach a bell tower standing tall upon a stone wall originally built in the 1800s. The hike features rolling terrain of moderate difficulty along a creek with excellent Andean views.
 
After working up an appetite we will head to Riccitelli Vineyards for a five-course lunch and wine tasting. This small family winery is an expression of the winemaker’s lifetime of dedication, passion, and hard work. Matias Riccitelli, the winemaker, was born in Cafayate, the northwestern wine growing region, into a family of winemakers. Matias has worked under his father’s wing, a legendary Argentine winemaker in his own right, since the age of 8. After travelling the world studying great wine traditions and cutting his teeth at other notable Argentine wineries Matias opened Richitelli in 2009. Located in Las Compuertas, the highest sub-region of the Lujan de Cuyo, in the Andean foothills, Matias is crafting some of Argentina’s most exciting wines, with scores from 92 to 97 by Tim Atkins, Richitellis wines have definitely reached the top 100 of Argentina. (B, L)
Day 8 MENDOZA - BUENOS AIRES – VIP TANGO SHOW

In the morning, you will be transported to the Mendoza airport for your morning flight to Buenos Aires, arriving at mid-day. Your local guide will be waiting to escort you to your hotel. The afternoon is yours to explore the sights of South America’s most cosmopolitan city. Here in the birthplace of tango, this evening you will attend a glamorous Tango show including dinner in one of the capital's most prestigious tango houses where your VIP seating guarantees a great view. (B,D)

Day 9 THE FOUR BALCONIES OF BUENOS AIRES

The Four Balconies Tour draws first-time visitors into the stormy past and cosmopolitan pulse of Buenos Aires by highlighting four disparate areas of this magnificent city. Illuminated by our knowledgeable guide who makes these historic places come alive, this stimulating Argentina tour is time well-spent. Since populist President Juan Peron and his legendary wife, Eva, began leading massive rallies from the back balcony of this presidential palace, La Plaza de (25 de) Mayo has symbolized the desire for change. Named to commemorate the city's declaration of independence from Spain, here dissidents still gather for major political demonstrations. The most famous are Las Madres de la Plaza de Mayo (The Mothers of the Plaza de Mayo) whose weekly marches have continued for thirty years as they demand answers about the disappearance of their sons during the notorious Dirty War. A few miles away is Parque Lezama, thought to be where the Spanish first put down roots in Buenos Aires and the current site of a popular crafts market. The park's surroundings are equally impressive, including a late 19th century Russian Orthodox Church, built with materials imported from St. Petersburg, and the massive bronze Canto al Trabajo by late Argentine sculptor, Rogelio Yrurtia. The park sits between two of the city's oldest and most charming working class neighborhoods, where the tango was born and many artists call home today. La Boca neighborhood's calling card is el caminito, a street of balconied dwellings originally covered with mismatched leftover paint by Italian immigrants too poor to buy their own. This colorful patchwork tradition has made the area the most oft- photographed of Buenos Aires architecture. The Plaza San Martin and its statues commemorate the bravery of Argentine soldiers against the British, including those who defended the country in the 1807 invasion and those who died in the ill-fated 1982 Falkland Islands war. The plaza's elegant setting in the posh Retiro neighborhood belies its eclectic past as slave market, bullfighting ring and barracks. The nearby landmark government buildings began as a monastery and the opulent palaces of wealthy ranch owners. It was to their Recoleta summer homes that the elite fled during the 1870's yellow fever epidemic. Today the Recoleta remains one of Buenos Aires' most stylish neighborhoods, with wide boulevards, elegant homes, fashionable shops and art museums as well as the city's most popular tourist attraction, the Recoleta Cemetery. The Four Balconies Tour will orient you to the geography of Buenos Aires, explain some of its idiosyncrasies and make it obvious why this beautiful city is called the Paris of South America. (B)

Day 10 BUENOS AIRES - HOME

With so much to see and do, your last free day in Buenos Aires will still leave you wanting more and planning your next Argentina tours. In the evening you will be transported from the hotel to the airport for your flight home or on to your next destination, concluding Southern Explorations' services. (B) Please note: Wineries subject to change without notice. Many wineries are closed on Sundays and holidays.

Weather (Chile)

When to Visit
  • jan
  • feb
  • mar
  • apr
  • may
  • jun
  • jul
  • aug
  • sep
  • oct
  • nov
  • dec

Santiago & Surrounding Vineyards - The fertile heartland, this midland area of Chile enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with maximum temperatures averaging 82°F (28°C) in January and 50°F (10°C) in July. The rainy season lasts from May to August. Evenings and nights can be cool, even during the summer.

General Patagonia - The area south of Puerto Montt and Chiloé covers about 30% of the total land area of Chile. It is a rugged, mountainous region of tremendous beauty. Westerly winds and storms often drop enormous amounts of snow and rain on the seaward slopes. In the Magellanes and Tierra del Fuego areas, temperatures in summer average 52°F (11°C). Dampness and wind chill can make it feel cooler so layered clothing and good waterproof gear are musts. The weather year-round is highly unpredictable, and in summer be prepared for incessant winds that lessen in the winter. In the shoulder season months, November and March, winds are not likely to be as strong as during the peak of summer.

Torres Del Paine - The weather is famously unpredictable in this area and it is possible to experience four seasons in the course of a few hours. Average daily temperatures vary but in summer one can expect temperatures ranging between 50° F (10° C) and 70° F (20 ° C) with the occasional hot day of 78° F (25° C). Temperatures can drop to zero at night, and high winds are common in this area. Travelers should be prepared (both mentally and physically) for unpredictable and sometimes challenging weather conditions and pack accordingly. Good head-to-toe, breathable waterproof clothing is essential.

SANTIAGO

Min-Max Air Temp

Avg Rainfall

JAN54-850.0
FEB54-840.1
MAR52-800.2
APR47-720.5
MAY40-642.3
JUN40-583.1
JUL37-573.0
AUG38-612.1
SEP40-651.1
OCT45-710.5
NOV47-770.2
DEC51-820.2

*Year Round Temperatures in °F, Rainfall in Inches

 

PUERTO MONTT

Min-Max Air Temp

Avg Rainfall

JAN48-663.6
FEB47-673.7
MAR47-643.9
APR43-605.6
MAY42-569.2
JUN39-518.8
JUL37-509.0
AUG38-528.2
SEP38-525.7
OCT38-524.8
NOV43-600.5
DEC46-634.1

*Year Round Temperatures in °F, Rainfall in Inches

 

PUNTA ARENAS

Min-Max Air Temp

Avg Rainfall

JAN43-571.4
FEB44-571.1
MAR51-541.6
APR39-491.6
MAY35-441.7
JUN31-391.3
JUL29-381.3
AUG31-411.3
SEP32-461.1
OCT36-500.9
NOV40-531.1
DEC42-561.2

*Year Round Temperatures in °F, Rainfall in Inches

 

SAN PEDRO ATACAMA

Min-Max Air Temp

Avg Rainfall

JAN50-760.9
FEB50-750.2
MAR48-730.1
APR44-700.1
MAY38-660.0
JUN33-610.0
JUL33-610.0
AUG35-640.0
SEP40-690.1
OCT43-720.1
NOV46-740.1
DEC48-750.1

*Year Round Temperatures in °F, Rainfall in Inches

 

EASTER ISLAND

Min-Max Air Temp

Avg Rainfall

JAN68-812.8
FEB68-813.3
MAR68-803.8
APR66-774.8
MAY64-746.0
JUN62-724.2
JUL60-704.1
AUG60-703.7
SEP60-713.4
OCT61-732.7
NOV63-752.9
DEC65-783.4

*Year Round Temperatures in °F, Rainfall in Inches

 

Weather (Argentina)

When to Visit
  • jan
  • feb
  • mar
  • apr
  • may
  • jun
  • jul
  • aug
  • sep
  • oct
  • nov
  • dec

Due to the country's geography and location, Argentina & Patagonia offers a wide variety of climates. The Argentine mainland is mostly temperate, with seasons reversed from those in the northern hemisphere. The northern areas of Salta and around Iguazú are tropical, while southern Patagonia's weather is often cold and windy and always unpredictable.

Winter (from the end of June to the beginning of October) may be cold with some rain in certain areas of Argentina, while the Northwest enjoys sunny days and warm temperatures.

Summer (from December to March) is hot and sometimes humid in Buenos Aires; warm and dry in the Northwest with intermittent summer rains; and cold but sunny and sometimes windy in Patagonia.
 

BUENOS AIRES

Min-Max Air Temp

Avg Rainfall

JAN69-833.9
FEB67-814.2
MAR67-784.9
APR58-713.5
MAY53-652.8
JUN47-582.2
JUL47-582.4
AUG48-612.6
SEP51-642.6
OCT56-704.4
NOV61-764.1
DEC66-813.8
*Temperatures in °F, Rainfall in Inches

 

EL CALAFATE

Min-Max Air Temp

Avg Rainfall

JAN45-650.5
FEB42-650.3
MAR37-610.5
APR32-541.0
MAY28-451.2
JUN27-410.8
JUL29-391.0
AUG33-430.8
SEP44-500.6
OCT37-560.5
NOV41-610.4
DEC44-640.6

*Temperatures in °F, Rainfall in Inches

 

USHUAIA

Min-Max Air Temp

Avg Rainfall

JAN41-571.5
FEB51-561.8
MAR39-542.1
APR36-492.2
MAY32-432.1
JUN29-401.9
JUL28-391.4
AUG30-421.8
SEP32-461.6
OCT36-501.4
NOV38-531.4
DEC40-561.7

*Temperatures in °F, Rainfall in Inches

 

BARILOCHE

Min-Max Air Temp

Avg Rainfall

JAN43-700.9
FEB42-710.9
MAR39-661.2
APR35-582.1
MAY33-505.3
JUN30-445.5
JUL29-435.1
AUG30-464.6
SEPT31-512.3
OCT34-571.5
NOV38-631.0
DEC41-671.3

*Temperatures in °F, Rainfall in Inches

 

MENDOZA

Min-Max Air Temp

Avg Rainfall

JAN64-901.4
FEB62-871.3
MAR57-811.1
APR50-740.5
MAY42-660.2
JUN35-600.2
JUL35-590.3
AUG38-650.1
SEP70-430.3
OCT51-770.4
NOV57-840.6
DEC63-881.0

*Temperatures in °F, Rainfall in Inches

 

SALTA

Min-Max Air Temp

Avg Rainfall

JAN61-817.0
FEB61-796.4
MAR59-774.6
APR54-731.4
MAY46-700.3
JUN39-660.1
JUL37-680.2
AUG39-720.2
SEP45-750.8
OCT52-791.0
NOV57-812.5
DEC61-825.4

*Temperatures in °F, Rainfall in Inches


 

 

 

Maps

Discover Argentina

Chile & Argentina Wine Adventure

Pricing
Per Person
$5,685
Domestic Airfare:
$550 Airfare: Santiago/Mendoza/Buenos Aires (subject to change)
 
Single Supplement: contact us
A single supplement is the additional cost of a single traveler not sharing a room in double occupancy.
Included in tour cost
  • All airport/hotel transfers
  • All hotel accommodations
  • All listed activities
  • English-speaking certified guides
  • Entrance fees for all scheduled tours, national parks & archaeological sites
  • Meals as indicated
  • Southern Explorations pre-departure services
Excluded from tour cost
  • Airport taxes, international and local
  • Domestic airfare within South America
  • International airfare to and from Central & South America
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Medical & travel insurance (highly recommended)
  • Hiking boots and other necessary sports gear
  • Reciprocity fee

Chile & Argentina Wine Adventure

Trip Dates
Southern Explorations can arrange a private departure on any date that works with your schedule. Custom tours are also available. Contact us for details.
Available
Mendoza
Hotel upgrades are available, please contact us to discuss your options.
Buenos Aires
Hotel upgrades are available, please contact us to discuss your options.
Colchagua Valley
Hotel upgrades are available, please contact us to discuss your options.
Santiago
Hotel upgrades are available, please contact us to discuss your options.

One Day

Multi-Day

patagonia travelSouthern Explorations created an amazing custom trip to one of the most beautiful places on earth. They worked with us to fine tune the details of what our perfect vacation to Patagonia would be. The reservations, the accommodations, the transfers and the guides were spot on, very informative and professional. Will we use Southern Explorations for our next trip to the southern hemisphere? You can be certain of that. - Jim Balsitis and Kathy Kalp (Patagonia)

 
mount fitzroy patagoniaSadly, I am back from my AMAZING trip to S. America. I just wanted to thank you for everything. Your professionalism, responsiveness, & knowledge of S. America were incredible. I truly had the trip of a lifetime thanks to Southern Explorations. You guys left no stone unturned from the Galapagos, to Peru, to Chile, to Patagonia..............my expectations were exceeded 10-fold. I already recommended you guys to the gentleman on the plane next to me. It was really nice to get to meet Justin in Patagonia. It is obvious how hard he has worked to establish such strong contacts, guides, etc. I could tell that our guides were a step above the rest. I just wanted to thank you for making my dream come true. My mom & I will never forget this the rest of our lives. - Ami Jampolis (Galapagos Island Cruise, Peru, Chile & Patagonia)

mount fitzroy patagoniaFrom arrival to departure this trip, from an organizational stand point, felt like a ballet… seamless and fluid. We couldn’t have done it without you – Thanks Southern Explorations! - Lori Schrader, New York (Patagonia)
 

“We just returned from our South American adventure this morning, but I wanted to write you to thank you for helping us put together a fantastic vacation. Our friends called it the 'trip of a lifetime', that included the 'hike of a lifetime' and the 'kayak paddling day of a lifetime' for them. You made it so easy to have a great adventure. Thanks again for all your help. - Heidi and Michael Rotberg (Argentina Mountains & Wineries)

“The Southern Explorations team did a fantastic job helping us plan our Galapagos adventure in 2011 and our Torres del Paine/Australis Magellan Straits cruise 2015.  They were extremely helpful in planning our trips and quickly responded to each of our questions. We will definitely seek their services to assist in any future travels.” - Sharon McRae (Cruceros Australis + Hotel Las Torres) 

Thank You for planning an amazing trip for us. Everything was beyond wonderful…and ran so smoothly. We so enjoyed our guides…who took us on harder hikes, just like we wanted. We especially loved El Chalten…and of course the EOLO hotel. I think the glacial hike was one of the most beautiful walks we have ever taken. So appreciate all the effort your agency put into our trip. I WILL definitely travel with you again. - Lisa Goldman (Luxury Patagonia)

“I am so happy that I used Southern Explorations!  I thought that your trip (with extensions) was very well-designed.  We appreciated the more luxurious travel and the flexibility that was afforded us.  The hotels were all wonderful and our guides ranged from good to excellent.  We hiked almost every day (a major concern of my husband).  We were afforded some solitude on even the most popular trails because we were able to have earlier departures than were available to a large group. Our overall aim on this trip was to maximize our hiking opportunities while exploring Patagonia and the Atacama Desert. We also wanted to stay in very comfortable hotels.  Everyone at Southern Explorations (and particularly Eric Bartanen who made the arrangements) was friendly, courteous  and efficient.  We tinkered a little with an already well designed Southern Explorations trip to produce a  marvelous trip that exceeded my expectations.  The arrangements were flawless.  I was very impressed by the quality of the accommodations, the guides and the drivers.” - Janet Luck (Luxury Patagonia + Alto Atacama)

It was a wonderful trip and Southern Explorations really did a marvelous job of putting everything together for us. Thank You. We have had nothing but fantastic memories and have spoken to many people about Southern explorations and what a nice job you guys did putting everything together. Peru and other South America ventures will happen. I will be in touch. - Steve Andryk (Wisconsin) (Luxury Patagonia)

The Southern Explorations team did a fantastic job helping us plan our Galapagos adventure in 2011 and our Torres del Paine/Australis Magellan Straits cruise 2015. They were extremely helpful in planning our trips and quickly responded to each of our questions. We will definitely seek their services to assist in any future travels.   - Sharon McRae (Torres del Paine/Galapagos)

Thank you for a wonderful introduction to South America and excellent vacation. We will be returning to other SA venues in the coming years and will be sure to contact Southern Explorations for assistance. - Gordon McPhee, South Carolina (Chile & Argentina)

 

 

Chile - Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I choose an itinerary?
A: We offer a variety of pre-planned tours online and we’d love to design a custom trip just for you. Take a look at what we have online then call an Adventure Travel Coordinator to discuss the trip that best fits your timeframe, budget and interests.
Q: Can I make changes or additions to these tours?
A: Yes! We are happy to modify any tour to meet your needs and also add pre and post-excursion extensions. If you sign up for a group departure we cannot change the group portion but we can add extensions before and after.
Q: When is the best time to go to Chile?
A: Chile can be visited year-round, although the southern regions are generally best visited in the Spring, Summer and Fall, which run from October through April. Northern Chile, due to its high desert, is pleasant to visit year round. Central Chile, in the Andes, becomes a skiers paradise from late-June to mid-September. Contact an Adventure Travel Coordinator to discuss the best timing for your preferred tour.
Q: What is the weather like in Chile?
A: Chile is a long country, spanning many climatic zones, and offers weather systems ranging from warm, high desert to cold tundra. Patagonia is famous for having “all four seasons in one day,” while the Atacama Desert is one of the driest places on earth. Contact an Adventure Travel Coordinator today to discuss the weather on your trip.
Q: What is a typical day like in Chile? 
A: The typical day varies widely from trip to trip, but all tours will have full days with guided exploration. There is time for rest and relaxation, as well as independent exploration of the cities and towns you visit. Due to the remote nature of Chile’s most scenic areas, some long travel days will be required.
Q: How much time do we need to visit Chile?
A: Although we have trips as short as 5 days, we highly recommend spending at least 7 days in Chile, and ideally 12. Chile has many fascinating regions and some of the most beautiful areas are quite remote, requiring extended travel time.
Q: How far in advance should I book?
A: As a rule, the further in advance you can plan, the more options you will have. We recommend planning a trip at three to nine months in advance, but if you want to stay at very specific luxury hotels or travel over a holiday we recommend planning nine months to a year in advance.
Q: What are your booking and cancellation policies?
A: Click here to see our booking and cancellation policies.
Q: Do you use certified guides?
A: The guides on all of our tours are experienced, fluent in English and hold a degree in a related field. The guides are experienced in the outdoors and trained in basic first aid. We tend to use the same guides as they are accustomed to the trips we offer and understand the Southern Explorations commitment to quality.
Q: What kind of accommodations can I expect?
A: We primarily work with 4-star hotels in Chile and the occasional 3-star property that meets our standards. We also work with several amazing 5-star properties and all-inclusive lodges. All of our hotels are clean, comfortable, well-located, offer en suite bathrooms and have been personally vetted by a Southern Explorations’ staff member.
Q: Do tours include airfare?
A: We will confirm all airfare within South America and this price is listed separately from our base tour costs. You are responsible for booking international flights to Chile.
Q: Will I get more information on packing, vaccines, currency, electricity, etc.?
A: After booking you will receive a link to our online trip portal which includes all of the need-to-know information that is specific to your itinerary.  This includes packing lists, restaurant recommendations, tipping guides, FAQs, vaccine recommendations and currency information. Your Adventure Travel Coordinator will also be a great resource for any other information you may need.
Q: How will I do laundry during the trip?
A: Patagonian hotels charge very affordable rates for doing a guest’s laundry. You will also have access to laundry facilities on most days in major cities. Some of the Patagonian experiences will be true ‘wilderness’ style camping with only a river or lake as a water supply. Some locations have washing facilities where guests may do laundry. Bring biodegradable soap if you wish to do your own laundry. Please refer to the full itinerary or contact us for details.
Q: I’ve heard Patagonia is very remote. What if I have a medical emergency on the trip?
A: Some of our trips take passengers into some primitive wilderness areas. Our guides are trained in wilderness first-aid. To ensure the safety of our travelers, our guides are linked with outside services 24 hours a day in all locations to provide assistance when necessary. Though our guides carry extensive first aid equipment for minor ailments, injuries and accidents, they cannot handle serious medical conditions, and passengers are advised to obtain health or travel insurance that covers medical evacuation. There are small hospitals in the Patagonia region, some with 24-hour medical assistance that can deal with minor injuries and illnesses. In the rare event of an accident or broken bone, passengers would be evacuated from the wilderness area (probably by horse) and continue on the long drive out. Helicopters are available for emergencies but cannot fly during high winds. Any passengers with a medical condition or using medication should discuss this with us prior to travel.
Argentina - Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I choose an itinerary?
A: We offer a variety of pre-planned tours online and we’d love to design a custom trip just for you. Take a look at what we have online, then call an Adventure Travel Coordinator to discuss the trip that best fits your timeframe, budget and interests.
Q: Can I make changes or additions to these tours?
A: Yes! We are happy to modify any tour to meet your needs and also add pre and post-excursion extensions. If you sign up for a group departure we cannot change the group portion, but we can add extensions before and after.
Q: When is the best time to go to Argentina?
A: Argentina’s large size and geographic orientation means it covers many climatic zone and different areas are better to visit during different times of the year. In the south, Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego are best visited from October through April. In the north, the season is inversed and your best time to travel is from April through November. Buenos Aires and the wine country around Mendoza can be visited year round.
Q: What is the weather like in Argentina?
A: The weather ranges from temperate summers and cold, snowy winters in the south to rainy summers and dry, warm winters in the north. You will find a detailed weather chart on the Overview page of each trip. You can also call your Adventure Travel Coordinator to discuss the weather trends for your trip.
Q: What is a typical day like in Argentina? 
A: The typical day varies widely from trip to trip, but all tours will have full days with guided exploration. There will be time for rest and relaxation, as well as independent exploration of the cities and towns we visit. Due to the remote nature of Argentina’s most scenic areas, some long travel days will be required.
Q: How physically fit do I need to be to enjoy a trip to Argentina? 
A: As long as you are able to walk a couple of miles at a leisurely pace and comfortably navigate uneven terrain, you will be able to enjoy most of our tours. Some of our more adventurous tours include activities like kayaking, ice climbing and hikes up to 12 miles. Please check the physical ratings on our trip pages or contact your Adventure Travel Coordinator to see if a particular itinerary is a good fit for you.
Q: How much time do we need to visit Argentina?
A: Because of the vast size of Argentina we recommend at least seven days. If you wish to visit multiple regions within Argentina we recommend 12 days or more.
Q: How far in advance should I book?
A: As a rule, the further in advance you can plan, the more options you will have. We recommend planning a trip at three to nine months in advance, but if you want to stay at very specific luxury hotels or travel over a holiday then we recommend planning nine months to a year in advance.
Q: What are your booking and cancellation policies?
A: Click here to see our booking and cancellation policies.
Q: Do you use certified guides?
A: The guides on all of our tours are experienced, fluent in English and hold a degree in a related field. The guides are experienced in the outdoors and trained in basic first aid. We tend to use the same guides as they are accustomed to the trips we offer and understand the Southern Explorations commitment to quality.
Q: What kind of accommodations can I expect?
A: We primarily work with 4-star hotels in Argentina and the occasional 3-star property, provided they meet our standards. We also work with several amazing 5-star properties. All of our hotels are clean, comfortable, well-located, offer en suite bathrooms and have been personally vetted by a Southern Explorations staff member.
Q: Do tours include airfare?
A: We will confirm all airfare within South America and this price is listed separately from our base tour costs. You are responsible for booking international flights to/from Argentina.
Q: How many people are on your tours?
A: Our Argentina trips are generally limited to 8 travelers, although some areas (all-inclusive lodge stays and cruises) may require that we form larger groups with other travelers.
Q: Will I get more information on packing, vaccines, currency, electricity, etc.?
A: After booking you will receive a link to our online trip portal, which includes all of the need-to-know information that is specific to your itinerary.  This includes packing lists, restaurant recommendations, tipping guides, FAQs, vaccine recommendations and currency information. Your Adventure Travel Coordinator will also be a great resource for any other information you may need.
Q: I read about a “Reciprocity Fee” to enter Argentina, do I need to pay that?
A:

There is no longer a “Reciprocity Fee” required for travelers carrying US, Canadian or Australian Passports. If you carry a passport from a different country please check with your nearest Argentine consulate for more information.