Join this 8-day Best of Chile's Central Valley Tour. The region is known for its diverse and abundant agricultural production and wine grapes that thrive in the region’s Mediterranean climate. One of the highlights of Chile’s Central Valley is its wine industry. The region is known for producing some of the world’s finest wines, including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Syrah. The valley’s vineyards benefit from the warm, sunny days and cool nights, which help produce grapes with intense flavor and aroma. Overall, Chile’s Central Valley is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the country’s rich agricultural heritage, tasting some of the world’s finest wines, or exploring its breathtaking natural landscapes.
Highlights
Explore the Colchagua Valley by bike and immerse yourself in the aroma of wine and fresh fruit
Discover the stunning vineyards of Viña Casa Silva and experience their exceptional wines
Experience the beauty of the Rosario Valley and indulge in a delicious dinner or lunch with a bottle of Corralillo wine
Visit the iconic house of Pablo Neruda in Isla Negra and explore the charming Pueblo de Pomaire
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
Welcome to Chile! Your guide meets you at the Santiago (SCL) airport. Drive two hours south on the Pan-American Highway, through the marvelous agricultural heart of the Central Valley, before arriving at the eastern end of the Colchagua Valley. In Colchagua, a perfect location for cycling, envision yourself pedaling through vineyards, surrounded by the invigorating scents of wine, fresh fruit, and fertile soil. The Colchagua Valley has earned its place among the top 10 cycling routes globally, offering paths that traverse breathtaking landscapes nestled beneath the majestic Andes mountains. Here, one can witness the Chilean huaso, adorned in chupallas and square ponchos, gracefully wandering through the lush emerald hills.
Visit Casa Silva for a tour, tasting, and lunch. Now in its fifth generation as a family-run winery, Casa Silva strives to be a leader and innovator in a new generation of premium wines in Chile while maintaining a lifestyle that honors the people, traditions, and environment of the Colchagua Valley.
Afterward, check into the elegant Hotel Santa Cruz.
The Colchagua Valley is emerging as the king of Chilean reds, and today’s winery visits can undoubtedly demonstrate the quality of wines coming from Colchagua, particularly Carménère, Syrah, and Malbec. This morning, make the short 3-minute drive by car to Estampa Winery for a tour and tasting. With a rich history dating back over a century, Estampa is the first winery in Chile dedicated to ensemblaje (blend) wines. The winery was designed by local architect Claudio Blanco and features a swooping, avant-garde design that houses cutting-edge winemaking equipment.
From here, hop on your bikes and pedal to the family-run Viu Manent winery. Founded in 1935 by the Viu family, their core philosophy is centered around attention to detail, respect for the environment, and finding the balance between honoring history and tradition and embracing innovation and modernity as they lead to excellence in their wines. Horse-drawn carriage rides around the property are a highlight. Enjoy a tour, tasting, and delicious lunch here.
Your last stop of the day is at Neyen de Apalta Winery, which focuses all its production on 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.
Return and spend the night at Hotel Santa Cruz.
Total Pedaling Distance: approx. 21 miles total (option to add more)
A transfer will be provided from the Hotel Santa Cruz to the Casona Matetic Hotel.
Enjoy a getaway through the Rosario Valley, where you can explore the vineyard and discover unique spaces. Upon arrival, a Dinner or Lunch menu will be prepared, accompanied by a bottle of Corralillo wine per room, which will be served at the Equilibrio Restaurant.
The night will be spent at La Casona Matetic Hotel.
Day 4: Head to Valparaiso | Isla Negra & Pomaire Visit
Enjoy breakfast at the Equilibrio Restaurant before transferring from the Casona Matetic Hotel to Valparaiso.
Enjoy a full-day trip to Isla Negra and Pomaire. Explore the iconic house of the renowned poet Pablo Neruda. Built in 1939 with stone and wood, the house resembles a grand ship and served as the residence of the Nobel Prize winner in Literature. Afterward, visit the charming Pueblito de Pomaire, which dates back to 1771 and is known for its various crafts made from clay. The village also offers a culinary experience featuring traditional Chilean cuisine.
Beginning with guests being picked up from their hotel to travel to the Casablanca Valley. The valley is situated 40 km from Valparaiso, located in the central valleys between Santiago and the V region. It has earned global recognition for its production of exceptional white wines, including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Syrah. In the 1980s, renowned winemaker Pablo Morandé recognized the region's potential and favorable climatic conditions, leading to a transformation of the vineyards and the establishment of the first white grape varieties. Visitors have the opportunity to witness the production process firsthand.
Visits to the most characteristic and significant vineyards in the area, where you can learn about the natural conditions that nurture grape growth and the production systems used for each variety; additionally, you can have the pleasure of tasting a selection of the finest wines from each vineyard, complemented by culinary delights featuring the best products from the central area.
The first stop is Bodegas Re, one of the most exclusive wineries in the region, designed as an experimental winery that produces high-end wines with a distinctive character. During the visit, you can explore a portion of the vineyards, visit the balsameria for artisanal liquors, and visit the room for jars and barrels, concluding with a tasting of their best productions. Then continue to Casas del Bosque, one of the most prestigious wineries in the Casablanca Valley. Learn about its history and production systems and take a guided tour of its vineyards and wineries, followed by a memorable wine tasting.
The night's accommodation will be at the Hotel Casa Higueras.
Day 6: Vina del Mar and Valparaiso full day Tour | Transfer to Santiago
1 Breakfast
Viña del Mar, known as the "Garden City," charms visitors with its extensive and beautiful urban gardens, set against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. The city's alluring architecture, magnificent palaces, and iconic Flower Clock make it an unmissable destination in Chile. During the tour, you can have the option to enjoy lunch at one of the city's numerous restaurants, offering a variety of delicious seafood.
Continuing along the seafront, relish the picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean until reaching Valparaiso, one of Chile's most significant ports. This city has earned its place as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its vibrant colors and unique location on the hills, creating a natural amphitheater with the ocean as its stage. Exploring Cerro Alegre, grasp the magic of Valparaiso with its charming funiculars, vibrant neighborhoods adorned with a myriad of colors, and unforgettable views of the sea.
After the tour, there will be a transfer from the Valparaiso region to the hotel in Santiago. Spend the night at the Noi Vitacura Hotel.
Day 7: Santiago & Los Dominicos City Tour
1 Breakfast
Santiago, a city described by international media as a captivating destination that seamlessly blends its traditions with a modern outlook, is located in the heart of the city, where iconic landmarks like the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, Santiago's Central Postal Office, and the Municipality await. Visit the Moneda Palace, the government's headquarters, and discover the charm of the historic city center's traditional neighborhoods.
Following the Santiago tour, proceed to Los Dominicos little town, a charming artisan village situated in the eastern part of Santiago, named after its church. This delightful town boasts quality handicrafts, including leather goods, lapis jewelry, Mapuche silver, and textiles. The picturesque setting offers a perfect opportunity to find unique gifts or indulge in a delightful coffee at its cozy cafeteria, which also serves delectable traditional Chilean food.
At the end of the day, return to the Noi Vitacura Hotel for a relaxing night's stay.
Day 8: Return Home
The transfer service provides transportation from your hotel in Santiago to the airport, which is situated 20 kilometers away from the city. The journey is estimated to take around 40 minutes.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
Initial deposit is 30% ($400 minimum), and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 70 days (10 weeks) prior to departure by bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
6 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 1 Dinner
7 Nights Accommodations
7 Days Locally Hosted Guide Service
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
English Speaking Guide
Biking tour in Colchagua considered as a shared basis through Apalta valley
Winery tours & wine tasting in Colchagua are included (subject to availability), and lunch accordingly in Casa Silva, Viu Manent, or Neyen
Visit vineyards, take a winery tour and tasting in Casablanca (subject to availability), and have lunch or a picnic accordingly. (Matetic, Casa Marin, William Cole, or in Kingston)
Visit to Neruda's residence Museum in Isla Negra
Lunch at one of the premium seafood restaurants in Valparaiso
Half-day city tour in Santiago with a cooking class and lunch
Excluded
Gratuities
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Additional excursions during free time
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Map
When to Go
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Good to ideal period to travel, and many people choose to visit at this time.
Chance for unpredictable weather but with fewer visitors.
Typically not offered during this period because of weather conditions.
The trip was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.
We were referred by a satisfied client and the booking of the trip was everything we wanted to do, and they listened to the types of hotels, sightseeing, etc. we wanted to do.
Jan S
3 weeks ago
Rapa Nui was on my bucket list for a long time so I worried that it would not meet my expectations. Our tour could not have been better. Our guide was knowledgeable and professional with an understanding of the island that made it come alive. I would and have recommended this trip to everyone that will listen.
elisa wright
1 month ago
Mary Curry is the BEST! I have worked with her for multiple family trips for over 10 years, and she is responsive, works within your preferences and budget, has great suggestions and has personal travel experience at many of the locations. We prefer active family vacations and Adventure Life and Mary Curry make sure that is what we get!
Heather Spanbauer
1 month ago
My tour operator was helpful. Unfortunately she was unable to get my single-supplement canceled. Not too many tours charge for that anymore and I almost canceled my trip because of that.
Joel
2 months ago
Excellent communication and coordination for our proposed trip. It couldn't have been smoother, and any question we did have was rapidly addressed. It has made the whole process nearly seamless.