Chile
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DESTINATION MANAGEMENT CHILE
(SA) |
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COUNTRY MAP
(Map by kind permission of the CIA Official Website)
General Information
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Government |
Republic
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Capital |
Santiago |
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GMT |
- 4 hours |
| Online Weekly Weather |
www.bbc.co.uk/weather/5day/chile |
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Yearly Weather Climate |
www.weather.uk.msn.com/chile |
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Airport |
In Santiago: Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport is located 10kms northwest of Santiago. |
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Average Flying Time from London |
17-18 hours |
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Passport & Visas |
www.worldtravelguide.net/chile |
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Health and Medical information |
www.worldtravelguide.net/chile |
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Public Holidays |
www.worldtravelguide.net/chile |
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Currency |
Chilean Peso |
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Currency Converter |
www.oanda.com/convert/classic |
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Language |
Spanish (official), Mapudungun, German, English |
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Electricity |
220 volts AC, 50Hz. |
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Population |
Chile’s population reaches approximately 14 million people, of which 5 million live in the large metropolitan area of Santiago. The port city of Valparaíso and neighboring Viña del Mar comprise the second largest city area, followed by Concepción to the south.
Chile was colonized in the early 16th century when the Spaniards arrived in the Mapocho Valley, where they founded Santiago. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries a new wave of settlers came from Europe, primarily from Spain, Germany, Italy, and France. Until that time the country had been sparsely populated by the original inhabitants, most of whom were indigenous Mapuches and Quechuas |
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Total Land Area |
1,042 sq km |
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Coastline |
6,435 km |
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Driving |
On the left |
Company
D.M.C. - Destination Management Chile S.A., was founded in December 1989 as a Destination Management Company with the following objectives:
To be your “local office” in Chile, giving you the maximum coverage, both in relation to your customers handled by us while visiting Chile, and with local suppliers.
To provide the most efficient service to our partners, including 24-hour availability in case of emergencies, as well as a guaranteed reply to requests within a maximum of 24 hours.
To offer the best professional and personalized service in the following areas:
UP MARKET F.I.T.’s
GROUP ARRANGEMENTS
MEETINGS AND CONVENTIONS
INCENTIVES
We know how important a professionally-operated program is for you and your customers and we want to help you plan the ultimate program, while taking both time and budget into account.
Although our company is relatively new, we, as professionals, have many years of experience in the business and are determined to work harder to be successful!
And remember - when WE are successful, YOU are the WINNER!
We look forward to working with you.
Destination
CHILEChile is one of South America’s most secluded and best-kept secrets. Chile’s geography is probably the most unique in the world. It is an incredibly long country - 5,302 kilometres (3,313 miles) long and has an average width of 200 km (120 m) - with a huge coastline along the Pacific and bordered inland by the spectacular mountain ranges of the Andes. It seems that wherever you go in Chile you can see dramatic snow-capped mountains or volcanoes. Chile is a country rich in natural assets with huge agricultural, fishing and mining interests and has one of the most successful economies at present in the world. Chileans are mainly of Spanish descent although there are large British and German colonies also throughout the country.
The country is situated along the southwest coast of South America; the Pacific Ocean forms its western border, while the Andes Mountain range provides its eastern border with Argentina and Bolivia. The Atacama Desert borders Peru in the north and its southern territories extend to the South Pole. Chile’s Pacific territories also include Easter Island and Robinson Crusoe Island.
Chile’s population reaches approximately 14 million people, of which 5 million live in the large metropolitan area of Santiago. The port city of Valparaíso and neighbouring Viña del Mar comprise the second largest city area, followed by Concepción to the south.
SANTIAGO
Just before landing at Santiago’s international airport, you will have a spectacular view of the Andes and the Aconcagua Mountain, which, at 7,043 metres (23,106 feet) is the highest mountain in South America and is located just north of Santiago.
Santiago is the capital of Chile and is situated virtually in the middle of the country.
Two hours drive from the city centre you can be on the ski slopes of the Andes or down at the Pacific coastal resorts of Valparaiso and Viña del Mar. Many of the famous Chilean vineyards are also situated around Santiago and the city boasts the best seafood and fish restaurants in the whole of South America. Santiago is very pretty capital and there are still many residential areas with elegant homes and gardens and many colonial houses from the days of the Spanish. The River Mapocho runs throughout the city and elegant parks and walks have been laid out along its banks. The pace is leisurely within the city and most relaxing.
Example Programmes
Wine Tour – La Posada - 2 days / 1 night Sunday to Friday
This Wine Route is a journey through some of the main vineyards of the Valleys of Colchagua and Maule, located 150 miles south of Santiago. In two days, you will be able to see, and to understand the process of elaboration of the best and most grateful wines in our country, visiting the facilities of the wineries La Posada, and Pueblo Antiguo in the valley of Colchagua; and Los Robles, Miguel Torres, and La Fortuna in the valley of Maule.
We will enjoy a glass of the different varieties of wines produced by these wineries, visit their vineyards, and taste the typical country food. You also will be able to acquire at a convenient price, the wines you most enjoy.
It includes a visit to the Museum of Colchagua, property of the Foundation Cardoen, where you will be able to admire a unique group of pieces of the Latin American cultures, and especially of the area of Colchagua.
Itinerary
Day 1
08:00 Departure from Santiago
10:30 Arrival at Pueblo Antiguo winery. Reception. Visit the facilities. Wine tasting
12:00 Departure
12:30 Arrival at La Posada winery. Reception. Visit to the vineyard and facilities, wine tasting
13:45 Lunch at La Posada
15:15 Departure
15:25 Arrival at the Museum of Colchagua (Cardoen Foundation)
17:30 Departure
17:45 Dinner and lodging at La Posada
Day 2
09:30 Departure from La Posada
11:00 Arrival at Miguel Torres’ winery (Curicó)
12:15 Arrival at Los Robles winery
13:45 Lunch at the Restaurant La Laguna
15:45 Visit to La Fortuna winery
20:00 Arrival at the Hotel in Santiago
WILD RUPANCO AND PETROHUE RIVER FISHING - (4 Days – 3 Nights)
Day 2 Friday
Petrohué River
Float fishing on special Catarraft from Hueñu - Hueño river to Frío river.
Length : approximately 9 hours
Included : Guide service, surface transportation and box Lunch
Boat and wade fishing at the best spots of the river, where you could catch Rainbow, Steelhead, Brown, Sea-run and sometimes Coho Chinook and Atlantic Salmon.
We recommend using Shooting or Wet Tip, medium or fast sinking: with medium or fast action rods, numbers 6 to 8; fly selection for these species.
Itinerary:
07:30 am : Southern style breakfast at the lodge
08.00 am : Transfer to Hueñu - Hueñu River
08:45 am : Arrival at Petrohue River
09:30 am : Start fishing
01:30 pm : Lunch at the river
06:30 pm : Return to the lodge
- Dinner
- Lodging
Day 3 Saturday
Fishing at Rupanco Lake. 3 Inlet rivers
Length : approximately 10 hours
Included : Guide service, boat, transfer and box lunch
Wade fishing on wonderful inlet rivers on the south bank of the lake where you could catch beautiful Rainbow Trout and, sometimes, Chinook and Coho Salmon.
Itinerary:
07:30 am : Southern style breakfast at the Lodge
08:00 am : Transfer to different fishing places
09:15 am : Start Fishing
01:00 pm : Lunch at the Lake
06:30 pm : Go back to the Lodge
- Dinner
- Lodging
Day 4 Sunday
Fishing at the stream inlets of Llanquihue Lake
Length : approximately 4 hours
Included : Guide service and boat.
Wade fishing on wonderful stream onlet on the banks of the lake. You could catch beautiful Rainbow Trout, medium and large (over 6 pounds); superb Atlantic and Coho Salmon.
Itinerary:
06:30 am : Southern breakfast at the Lodge
07.00 am : Transfer by engine boat to the different fishing points
07:15 am : Start fishing
11:30 am : return to the Lodge
01:00 pm : Lunch
- Rest and transfer to the airport.
EL MIRADOR DE PLAYA GUADAL
PATAGONIA PROGRAMME: HORSEBACK RIDING
Day 1
Arrival at the airport of Balmaceda and departure by mini-van via the Carretera Austral Sur to the resort. During this tour of about 6 hours we pass through beautiful places like the national park Castillo Hill and the area affected by the eruption of the Hudson Vulcan. 21:00 Welcome dinner at the resort.
Day 2
09:00 Breakfast
10:30 Departure by mini-van to the High Lands at 30 minutes from the resort, where the horses will be waiting us for our first tour to the forgotten Mine.
13:00 Box lunch
14:30 Continue of the trip to Mata Redonda.
18:00 Return to the resort.
21:00 Dinner at the resort.
Day 3
09:00 Breakfast
10:00 Departure to the Maquis waterfall
13:00 Country lunch
14:30 Horseback riding in the surroundings of the waterfall, following the course of the river Maquis.
18:00 Departure to the resort.
21:00 Dinner
Day 4
09:00 Breakfast
10:00 Discovering the highlands nearby the resort.
13:00 Lunch: barbecue in the quincho.
14:00 Departure in a mini-van visiting Cochrane and Puerto Bertrand.
18:00 Return to the resort.
21:00 Dinner
Day 5
09:00 Breakfast
10:00 Departure to Balmaceda airport.
13:00 Box lunch at the shore of the river Murta.
16:00 Arrival at the Balmaceda airport.
Package: TORRES DEL PAINE & GLACIERS FROM PUERTO NATALES
Day 1
Punta Arenas /Puerto Natales (246 kms)
Upon arrival at the airport, pick up and transfer to downtown Punta Arenas to the bus terminal to take your regular bus to Puerto Natales. The trip takes about 4 hours through the endless Patagonian pampa scattered with houses of the Estancias of the area that are in the business of sheep raising. Arrival in Puerto Natales and immediate transfer to your hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight Cisne Cuello Negro.
Day 2
Puerto Natales/Torres del Paine National Park/Puerto Natales (336 KM)
Today, we will visit the famous Torres del Paine National Park. Our first stop is at Mylodon Cave, where the almost intact remains of a giant sloth were found in 1895 by Captain Eberhard. Then, we continue to the park. The landscape is filled with lakes, among which, we will see Lake Sarmiento, Lake Nordenskjiold, the beautiful Lake
Pehoe with its fantastic view, and Lake Grey, where we will stop to have our lunch. On the way back, a visit to Salto Grande Waterfall. Here a short hike exposes the rugged beauty surrounding this scenic spot. Then continue to Laguna Amarga, known for its intense blue color and habitat of a flamingo colony. Then head out of the park and back to Puerto Natales. Overnight. Cisne Cuello Negro
Day 3
Puerto Natales/Serrano & Balmaceda Glaciers/Puerto Natales
Today, we will make a full-day boat excursion to Serrano & Balmaceda glaciers. We will depart at 08:30 am and start our navigation through the Ultima Esperanza Sound to see the large Balmaceda & Serrano glaciers branching off from the Patagonian icecap, at Balmaceda National Park. Box lunch included. In the afternoon, return to Puerto Natales. Overnight. Cisne Cuello Negro.
Day 4
Puerto Natales /Punta Arenas (226 KM)
In the morning, transfer to the bus terminal to take your regular bus to Punta Arenas airport.
Termas de Puyuhuapi hotel & Spa-Austral Road (4 days / 3 nights)
Tuesday / Saturday
BALMACEDA – PUYUHUAPI
Reception in the Balmaceda airport. Begin tour through the Aysen region, crossing 45 min. of Patagonian pampas to reach the city of Coyhaique. Along the way we are likely to spot pairs of
caiquenes (wild goose) and flocks of
bandurrias (storks) through the grasses. The vast remains of burned over forests are vestiges of the region’s recent colonization period. Short visit to the city, and then we continue along the Austral Highway to the TERMAS DE PUYUHUAPI, HOTEL & SPA (5 hrs). Much of the trip is along a gravel road that passes through extraordinary landscapes of dense forests between mountains and cliffs. In the afternoon we arrive at the hotels Pier and then cross the Puyuhuapi Channel by motorboat in just 10 minutes. Welcome!
Wednesday to Thursday / Sunday to Monday
TERMAS DE PUYUHUAPI, HOTEL & SPA
The cosy hotel offers thermal outdoor pools at the edge of the sea, footpaths for walks through the cool forest, visits to the Queulat National Park with its Hanging Glacier, easy bicycle trips along the Austral Highway, or, if you wish, you can explore the Dorita Bay in boats or kayaks.
The Spa’s facilities are complete. Enjoy its large hydro-massage pool, Jacuzzis, spring-water fountain, and steam sauna, and then reap the benefits of thalassotherapy sessions, relaxation massages, facials and other such treatments. Recover your energy and restore your spirit, with 4 treatments per day: Our staff have prepared a variety of activities guaranteed to make your stay a unique experience. Enjoy it!
Friday / Tuesday
PUYUHUAPI – BALMACEDA
At 7:30 am we board the motor-launch and cross the Puyuhuapi Channel to return by austral road to Coyhaique, where we will have lunch, and then, continue to the airport of Balmaceda. Bon Voyage & Hasta la Vista!
NOTE: This program may vary on day 1, where the trip to Puyuhuapi can be operated on board the catamaran PATAGONIA EXPRESS from Chacabuco to Puyuhuapi, with a comfortable 5 hour navigation. You can request additional nights in Termas de Puyuhuapi, Hotel & SPA.
Lauca National Park & Atacama 6 days/5 nights (seat in bus)
(Tour across The Atacam desert Arica/Iquique)
Day 1
After arrival. Arica apt-transfer to the hotel. Arica-pm visit Axaoa valley and San Miguel de A. museum.
Day 2
Lluta valley - Pukara de Copaquilla-Putre-overnight hosteria Las Vicuñas (Brkst incl.)
Day 3
Visit Lauca national park-Lake Chungara-return to Arica-htl Arica 1 night. (Brkst incl.)
Day 4
By coach to Iquique- 4.5 hrs drive thru Atacama-desert. Htl Pratt 2 nights(Brkst incl.)
Day 5
Visit Humberstone, Pozo Amonte and Tamarugal Forest. Return to Iquique (Brkst incl.)
Day 6
Morning city tour and transfer to Iquique apt.
THE ANDES TO THE PACIFIC
Day 1
Trfin apt PMC /Htl Petrohue
Dinner and overnight at the hotel Petrohue (breakfast)
Day 2
Free Day for optionals :
1) Optional : Trekking Exc. Vicente Perez R. National Par
2) Optional : Exc. Peulla con almuerzo
3) Optional : River Rafting Rio Petrohue
Dinner and overnight hotel Petrohue (breakfast)
Day 3
Full Day Cochamo with lunch + Exc. Rio Puelo by boat + transfer a Puerto Montt via Estuary
Overnight hotel Viento Sur with breakfast
Day 4
Exc. Full day Chiloe, Castro with lunch, visit Criadero de Ostras back to Puerto Montt in the afternoon.
Overnigh hotel Viento Sur with breakfast
Day 5
Transfer from hotel to the airport
Mare Australis
Beginning of Operations: Saturday, November 30, M/V Mare Australis.
Departures Saturdays from Punta Arenas and Wednesday from Ushuaia.
Navigation Route:
Punta Arenas - Ushuaia (4 nights), Ushuaia - Punta Arenas (3 nights), Punta Arenas - Punta Arenas (7 nights), Ushuaia - Ushuaia (7 nights)
M/V Mare Australis Itinerary
Saturday:
Departure from Punta Arenas 9:00 pm.
Sunday:
Disembarkment in Ainsworth Bay to observe the Marinelli Glacier from a distance and visit a colony of Elephant Seals.
Disembarkment and sighting Magellan Penguins in Tucker Islet.
Monday:
Navigation through the D'Agostini Fjord and sighting of the Serrano and D'Agostini Glacier.
Disembarkment at Cóndor Glacier's Bay.
Tuesday:
Disembarkment at Yendegaia Bay.
Disembarkment in Puerto Williams and optional tours.
Wednesday:
Arrival in Ushuaia and optional tours.
Departure from Ushuaia at 7:00 pm.
Thursday:
Navigation through the Beagle Channel and Murray Channel in order to disembark at Cabo de Hornos National Park.
Disembarkment at Walaia Bay (Former Indigenous site).
Friday:
Navigation through Beagle Channel and sighting of Glaciers.
Disembarkment in beach nearby Garibaldi Glacier for a trek excursion inside the virgin Magellan Forest.
Saturday:
Disembarkment in Magdalena Island to observe a colony of 120,000M agellan Penguins. This colony of penguins stay in the island only from October through March.
The M/V Mare Australis expedition comes to an end 11:00 am in Punta Arenas.
Suggested Sightseeing
SANTIAGO / VIÑA DEL MAR
Half Day – City Tour Santiago
The tour includes the most important highlights of historic and modern Santiago, including La Moneda (the presidential palace), Club Hipico, and the Plaza de Armas with a visit to the Cathedral. Continue through the newer residential areas of the city including a visit to the top of San Cristobal Hill for a breathtaking view of Santiago.
Undurraga Vineyard and Pomaire
A morning tour through Santiago’s fertile surroundings with fruit plantations, farmlands, and vineyards. In the Undurraga winery, we see the different phases of wine production including the cellars, where the wine is aged in enormous oak barrels. Wine tasting. The tour continues on to the picturesque and folkloric village of Pomaire, known for its distinctive form of clay pottery sold at very reasonable prices.
Concha Y Toro Vineyard & The Maipo Valley
Travel eastward through the suburbs of Santiago to the world-renowned Concha y Toro Vineyard, which sits surrounded by its own fields of noble grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot, and Merlot. Visit the production plant and cellars followed by a wine tasting with the opportunity to purchase fine wines at attractive prices. The tour continues through the Maipo Valley with its quaint villages amidst the wine-growing areas.
Valparaiso & Viña Del Mar
An attractive full-day tour. Travel through mountain ranges and fertile farmlands, famous for their orchards and citrus groves, and arrive in Valparaíso, Chile’s most important port city built on 42 hills. We pass by the new Parliament building, Fisherman’s Wharf, Plaza Sotomayor, and the Naval Academy, and see some of the city’s incredibly steep winding streets lined with small and colorful houses. We continue along the coast to fashionable Viña del Mar, the “Garden City,” where we pass by the unique “flower clock”, palm-fringed avenues, the Fine Arts Museum, the Municipal Casino, and the beautiful Rioja Palace, built during Viña’s belle epoque. Further up the coast, we visit some popular summer resort towns, such as Las Salinas, Reñaca, and Concon, and have lunch at a restaurant by the sea (not included in tour price). Return to Santiago in the late afternoon.
Los Lingues Colonial Farm
We drive south on the Pan American Highway approximately 78 miles (125 km) to reach the historic farm, Los Lingues, whose construction begun in 1545. Los Lingues is the only Chilean member of the Relais et Chateaux, the prestigious international chain of high-quality country-home hotels and restaurants. Its land holdings include 1,000 acres of farmlands and 8,000 acres of forests and rolling hills. The farm’s owners will make you their valued guests for the day and show you around the old yet well-maintained house and valuable historic art and antique collection. The Los Lingues gardens alone are worth the visit, with their well-kept grounds and large array of native flora including trees, flowers, plants, and herbs, as well as a large variety of birds. Los Lingues also has one of the most prestigious horse-breeding farms in South America, established in 1760. The “Aculeguano” is a cousin of the Lippizano horses of the Viennese Spanish riding school. This is one of the finest thoroughbred horses in the Americas, descended from the Numidiam and Berber African horses brought to South America by the Conquistadors.
You will be served Chilean empanadas and a drink before lunch and then enjoy typical Chilean home-cooking at its finest for a delicious lunch accompanied by especially-selected wines.
NORTHERN CHILE
ARICA:
Excursion to Lauca National Park
A visit to wonderful Lauca National Park, an international biospheric and environmental reserve. You will see exotic flora and fauna. Herds of guanacos and vicuñas, vizcachas, and black-necked geese create an unexpected view. Parinacota and its 12th century church will be the culmination of such a splendid journey. Box lunch included. Open all year, although subject to confirmation in January through March.
IQUIQUE:
Full Day Tour To Pica Oasis And Saltpeter Plants
Early departure from the hotel to drive to the top of the coastal range. Visits to the Santa Laura and Humberstone Saltpeter plants (national historical monuments). Continue to Pica and Matilla Oases, well-known for their fruit production, especially the famous Pica lemons and oranges. Visit the Cocha Hot Springs, famous for the therapeutic properties of its mud. Return to Iquique passing through the Tamarugal Forest, located in the middle of the desert. Approximately 11 hours, lunch included.
SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA
FULL DAY EXCURSIONS
* Tatio Geysers – Guatin (Overland 210 km. R.T. – trekking)
Take a guided walk through the geothermal fields, observe the fumeroles (blowholes), hot mud craters and small geysers. Return via the majestic passage through the Andean Mountains, with a view of the Tocorpuri and Sairecahue Volcanoes.
* Stop for a break in Guatin, with its small Atacama-style farms where they raise crops and domestic animals. Here you see pre-Colombian routes used by Atacama’s first settlers.
* Caspana – Ayquina (Overland 360 km. R.T. – trekking)
1-day visit to Caspana, a small town noted for its architecture and terraced cultivation systems with Incan origins – evidence of the wealth of the region’s Andean cultures. The people of Ayquina are devotees of the Virgin of Guadalupe and her shrine, at 3,000 metres above sea level, this is a site of constant pilgrimage.
* Miscanti And Meñiques Lagoons (Overland 270 k. R.T.)
These lagoons, at an altitude of 4,500 metres, are surrounded by imposing volcanoes that arose with the Andes Mountains in geologically remote times. The water comes from underground run-offs of melting ice. Along the way, we will visit Socaire, a small Atacamanian village.
* Sentinels Of Pakana – Tara Salt Flat (Overland 290 km. R.T.)
Approximately 135 km southeast of San Pedro, Pakana is set of rocky columns preserved from geological times that give testimony to the violent volcanic activity during the Tertiary period. Wonderful scenery and view of the Tara Salt Flat’s extraordinary ecosystem at 4,500 metres.
* Chuquicamata - Chiu Chiu – Lasana
Early morning visit to the impressive Chuquicamata Copper Mine, a national industry important to the Chilean economy. The tour through the world’s largest open pit mine is guided by mine personnel. Visit the town of Chiu Chiu, with one of Chile’s oldest intact churches, dating back to the arrival of the Spaniards. In the Lasana Valley, visit the pre-Colombian Pukara (fortress) and observe ancient rock art.
THE LAKE DISTRICT
Full Day Tour to Villarica and the Lake & Ski Resort of Pucon
Drive to the town of Freire, located 30 km south of Temuco. Travel through lush forests, rolling hills, and beautiful landscapes to Lake Villarrica. Stop in the town with the same name to visit its museum and the commercial streets, where indigenous people selling their handicrafts are seen everywhere. Later, drive on along the lakeside road to the resort town of Pucon. Stops in Pucon include the Gran Hotel, the monastery, the pier, and the beaches, and the peninsula, where one of the most beautiful golf courses in Chile is located, overlooking the blue waters of the lake with an impressive view of the ever snow-capped Villarrica Volcano.
Full Day Tour to Frutillar
Located on Lake Llanquihue, Frutillar is a charming German-style village with attractive beaches, which boasts the most complete museum in the area, containing samples and relics of the German pioneers who colonized the region. High quality cuisine is also found here, specializing in regional dishes and old German "Delikatessen."
F/D Tour to Petrohue Falls
The first stop en route is the city of Puerto Varas, known as the "city of roses." Continuing to the east, drive along the lakeside road to Ensenada, a small town located on the southeastern coast of the lake. Just after Ensenada, the road leads to the famous Petrohue Falls. Continuing north, we reach Lake Todos Los Santos, which, due to its transparent, light green water is called the "Emerald Lake." Return to Puerto Montt, overlooking the snow-capped slopes of the Osorno Volcano, another of the wonders that can be appreciated during this spectacular excursion. The lakes and forests, framed by the snow-capped volcanoes, present a view that will be unforgettable for a lifetime.
F/D Tour to the Island of Chiloe
Chiloe Island was the last area of the Chilean territory dominated by the Spaniards. The longer influence of Spanish conquistadors on the island is one of the reasons why today there is still quite a difference between the island's culture and the one in the rest of Chile. A ferry boat links continental Chile with the island. After crossing the Chacao Channel, we arrive in the city of Ancud. The Cathedral, San Antonio fortress, and the Chilote Museum are among the interesting places we visit on this tour
LAKE CROSSING DESCRIPTION
1. Puerto Montt / Puerto Varas / Petrohue
76 km, 2 hours by bus. Morning departure on modern buses from Puerto Montt, passing through Puerto Varas and heading along the shoreline of Lake Llanquihue until reaching the Petrohue River Falls and rapids. After a 15-minute stop, buses continue on to Petrohue.
2. Petrohue / Peulla
13 Km, 1.4 hours by motor-ship. From the Petrohue pier, modern motor ships continue crossing through Todos Los Santos Lake, also called the Emerald Lake due to the deep green color of its water. While navigating, you can enjoy the magnificent presence of the Osorno Volcano, Puntiagudo Hill and Trovador Hill. Arrival in Peulla.
3. Peulla / Puerto Frias
27 km, 2 hours by bus. After checking through the police and customs offices, you will continue by bus to Puerto Frias, reaching the maximum height of the trip, over 2,900 feet above sea level. Arrival in Puerto Frias and check-in with the Argentine police.
4. Puerto Frais / Puerto Alegre
2,5 Km, 20 minutes by motor ship. Short navigation through the green waters of Frias Lake. Arrival in Puerto Alegre.
5. Puerto Alegre / Puerto Blest
6 km, 15 minutes by bus. A short bus ride takes passengers from Puerto Alegre to Puerto Blest.
6. Puerto Blest / Puerto Pañuelo
10 km, 1.3 hours by motor ship. A modern catamaran navigates the blue waters of the Nahuel Huapi Lake to Puerto Pañuelo.
7. Puerto Pañuelo / Bariloche
25 km, 20 minutes by bus. Bus ride from Puerto Pañuelo to Bariloche downtown bus terminal.
PATAGONIA
Punta Arenas
Half day tour to Fort Bulnes and Famine Port
Depart from the hotel heading south 58 km along the Strait of Magellan to the very end of the continent! We arrive in "Puerto Hambre" (Famine Port), formerly called "Ciudad del Rey Felipe II" (King Philip II City), which was founded in 1584 by Sarmiento de Gamboa. Three hundred people were either killed by Indians or starved to death after being left there by Sarmiento. When the English pirate Cavendish landed in the bay in 1587, he found one sole survivor, and dubbed the city "Port Famine." Further south, we arrive in "Fuerte Bulnes," a careful reconstruction of the first Chilean fort established in 1843, when the Chilean government took possession of the Strait. The observation point at Fuerte Bulnes offers a superb view of the ocean.
Half day tour to pecket Penguin Colony
Heading northwest of Punta Arenas, we follow the road that borders Otway Bay and cross a huge sheep farm before coming to the penguin colony and caves where hundreds of these animals live and make their nests. This tour operates from November to February.
Theme Party Ideas for Incentives
Themed evenings
Santiago’s major 5 star hotels all have excellent facilities to host gala events for groups of all sizes. From welcome cocktail receptions and informal lunches to grand farewell gala nights and celebrations, we will find the right venue and entertainment for your group. The Very Best of Chile is just one suggestion. Other themed evenings include a Chilean Festival and “A Ghost Town from the Northern Mining Area”!
The Very Best of Chile
The idea is to show our guests the very best that Chile has to offer in terms of history, tradition and cuisine. The evening begins with a welcome cocktail and a brief folkloric show of about 20 minutes where four typical dances will be performed from northern Chile, the central area, the south, and Easter Island with its Polynesian influence.
Dinner will be in the form of a buffet served from different “ramadas” or typical stalls you would find in Santiago’s central market. Each ramada is decorated to represent a different region of Chile. There will be different seafood, a choice of meat dishes cooked with delicate herbs and a great selection of desserts. Waiters will wear the elegant costume of the Chilean horseman, the huaso, and there will be an open bar serving wine and spirits.
By the end of the evening, your guests will have sipped “chichi”, sampled empanadas and “curanto” and of course celebrated the cueca dance!
Farewell Evening at Palacio Cousiño
The perfect venue for a cocktail party and farewell dinner. Palacio Cousiño is one of the finest examples of 19th century architecture in Chile and is still used by the President of Chile for accommodating visiting dignitaries such as the Queen of England and the King of Spain. Built between 1870 and 1878 by the French architect, Paul Lathond, it was commissioned by Isidora Goyenechea, the widow of the vineyard owner, Luis Cousiño.
In the summer we can start the evening with a tour of the estate before moving outside to a marquee in the grounds, which will be decorated with flowers and special lighting for the group’s exclusive use. A special 4-course dinner will be served and an orchestra will provide the music for dancing to continue under the stars, well into the night.
Alternatively, we can arrange a classical music concert to be held in a privately owned open-air Greek amphitheatre just before sunset. After the concert, a reception and dinner will be held inside in the palace’s elegant dining rooms.
Surprise party at Camino Real
This is ideal as a welcome dinner on the first night and - to make it a surprise - guests will be informed that tonight’s dinner is to be a simple affair.
Located at the Enoteca of San Cristóbal Hill, the Camino Real offers sweeping views of the city and up to the Andes. This was the venue for the official lunch for the Presidents during the II Summit of the Americas.
On arrival at the Enoteca del Cerro San Cristóbal, a torchlit pathway will lead guests to the dining room. Welcome drinks and hors d’oeuvres will be served in the main dining room whilst a group dressed in traditional costume will play music and entertain the group.
A solo performer will emerge and dance for the group before leading the guests through to the main patio where the orchestra will welcome the group for dinner. The patio will be beautifully decorated and each table will be specially adorned to represent the different cultures of Chile. A 4-course dinner will be served and after dinner the live band will continue to play as the dancing gets underway.
Castillo Hidalgo
This historic Spanish castle has a magical location at the top of Santa Lucía Hill, a sacred place for the Indians. The castle was known as Bateria Santa Lucia, in honour of the Buena Vista Saint. Built in 1816 as a fortress to protect the city, it would later take its name from Don Manuel Hidalgo, a brave captain who died at the battle of Chacabuco.
It was not until the 1870s that the castle became the social venue of Santiago. Castillo Hidalgo was seen as one of the most exclusive meeting places in the city and in 1874 it also became an Indian museum and then library. Its first exclusive restaurant was established in 1910 where Santiago’s high society could dine on the terrace and enjoy the wonderful views. In the decades that followed the building fell into decline until the 1990s when it was restored to its original beauty and once again stands as one of the most beautiful and traditional monuments of the city.
With its wonderful location at the top of Santa Lucía Hill, the pretty plant filled patio with its fountain is ideal for a cocktail reception. Inside, there are numerous gracious reception rooms on different floors all with elegant high ceilings and views of the floodlit terraces. The ballrooms provide all the glamour and style for a farewell dinner dance. www.castillohidalgo.cl
Club Hipico - A day at the races
Santiago’s Jockey Club, Club Hipico, offers a breathtaking view of Santiago. It is renowned for its architecture and horse racing and located in the older residential area in the Republica quarter on the west side of the city. Club Hipico can also be hired for a private lunch or a cocktail reception followed by an exhibition race. Founded in 1869 by a group of prominent members of the Chilean Society, the club started out primarily as a Social Club but by 1870 it was inaugurated with its first horse race. For years Club Hipico has been the meeting point for the cream of society. The present building was created by architect, Josue Smith, who based the design on the Hippodrome de Longchamps in France.
This is a fun afternoon and the group can watch the racing from the VIP lounge with closed circuit television. Current legislation does not allow betting with money, but we can organize a betting system with prizes for the winners. Racing usually commences at 2.00 pm with the most exciting races scheduled for the early evening at around 5.30 or 6.00 pm. www.clubhipico.cl
A Few Extra Touches
For something a little different at Club Hipico
We can arrange for your client to sponsor a race and at the end of the day’s racing, a representative from the company will present the winner of the race with a cup.
Or... A private race
On arrival at the Club Hipico, the group will be taken on a guided tour of the club on a day when no racing is officially scheduled. The tour will end at the patio, where waiters will be waiting with champagne and hors d’oeuvres. Whilst guests enjoy a cocktail reception, a special, private race will be prepared. Participants will be called to see the racing tracks, where they will discover that 10 horses are ready to be mounted and to race. There will be time to see the final preparations before moving to the VIP Lounge to view the whole race from the terrace. At the end of the race, there will be an awards ceremony and photo shoot. The evening can continue with a deluxe dinner served in one of the club’s private rooms.
Flying or ballooning over Santiago
The Andean Spirit – sightseeing flight over the Andes
Enjoy the Chilean Central Valley and a bird’s eye view of the Andean mountain range, majestic snow capped peaks and famous ski centres. Experience the ultimate “flightseeing” adventure with unrestricted panoramic views of the world’s largest mountain range.
You will be picked up from your hotel at approximately 11.30 am for transfer by road to the aerodrome where your flight on board the Monomotor plane will commence. Fly over the city of Santiago, the nearby ski centres, the impressive peak of Cerro El Plomo and the mountains of the Cajón del Maipo.
The flight duration is approximately 70 minutes with a minimum of 02 passengers on board. Return transfer from the aerodrome to your hotel is also included.
or
Fly over the Colchagua Valley Wine Route
The adventure of travelling by air will save you about 6 hours of driving time, so you can have more time to enjoy the beauty of the Colchagua Valley and the wine tasting. The Colchagua Valley Wine Route is the most acclaimed wine tourism circuit in Chile, highlighted as an exceptional tourist destination by
Travel & Leisure Magazine.
In just half a day from Santiago, visit the principal vineyards of the Colchagua Valley, enjoy a “flightseeing” adventure over the Andean Mountain Range, green fields & cities. Winery staff will meet you at the airfield to take you on a guided tour with the chance to taste their award winning wines. The programme includes visits to two vineyards, their famous cellars and a tasting of two fine wines in each winery, with a bilingual guide throughout. Tour duration: 5 hours.
Or
Take the Central Coast ExplorerTake off from Santiago to the central Pacific coast, with approximately 2 hours flying time. Fly over the Melipilla Valley, Santo Domingo, then northwards, flying over the coast, where you may see Isla Negra (Pablo Neruda’s house), and many other vacation centres over the Pacific coast, arriving over Valparaíso (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Viña del Mar, Reñaca and Con Con, before making the return to Santiago, flying over the Los Andes Valley. This trip gives a very complete picture of the central Pacific coast of Chile and the central valley. *The flight last 120 minutes.
Or
Take an aerial wild tour…
Option 1:
Experience the thrills of aerobatics, taking a flight to the highest mountains in the Andes, flying over the beautiful Chilean beaches in legendary open-cockpit World War II bi-planes, with the wind in your face, and sporting a leather jacket and helmet, reminiscent of the famous Red Baron. The top aerobatic experiences include loops, rolls, spins, hammer-heads and many others. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes flying over the beaches of the Chilean central valley. The open cockpit bi-plane flight has capacity for 06 pax. These flights depend to a degree upon the requirements of each passenger, i.e. the desire or not to include spins, loops, hammer heads, rolls etc.
If preferred, we can make this a gentle flight to the La Campana y El Roble mountains.
Total time for tour: 03 hours (flight time 30 mins)
Option 2:
Fly with the eagles and the condors! Fly like a bird in new generation gliders to the valleys, mountains and the Andes, close to Aconcagua mountain. An experienced instructor will fly with you whilst the passenger in the front cockpit enjoys the flight through nature. 6-pax glider flights take passengers in last generation Polish Puchakz fibreglass and Bergfalke German gliders. If preferred, these glider flights can include aerobatic manoeuvres. The flights take place in the Olmue valley in the coastal mountains and last approximately 30 minutes per flight, depending on wind and thermal conditions. Total time for tour: 03 hours
Option 3:
Enjoy this king of sports, as giant aerostatic balloons take you in typical wooden baskets, flying over the villages, farms and forests to experience a bird’s eye view of Chilean life. Each hot air balloon flight takes 06 pax. Total time for tour: 04 hours approx. with flight time of 1 to 1½ hours. Each passenger receives a certificate.
Valle Nevado Rally
This is a great, fun rally to the country’s largest ski resort, Valle Nevado, located 60 km east of Santiago at an altitude of 3000 metres above sea level.
On the day before departure, participants will meet in the hotel ballroom to receive final information about the route and a map. Strict regulations will be in place to ensure safety and we will organise stop stations to check timings en route and to make sure that drivers keep to the speed limits! The group will be divided into two-man teams and on the morning of the rally, the cars will be ready for the group in the hotel’s car park, each one numbered like a racing car.
Your destination will be the hotel in Valle Nevado, where participants will be welcomed by “huasos”, Chilean cowboys. Weather permitting, lunch will be an open air barbecue, with a live jazz band adding to the festivities. The hotel also offers three restaurants for lunch, each with a capacity for 150 guests.
After lunch, guests can take the cable lift to the top of the mountain, enjoy some gentle mountain trekking or even try their hand at biking. To make this day even more unforgettable we suggest including typical Chilean Huaso ponchos or hats as a special gift to each guest at the end of the day.
The group will return to Santiago in the late afternoon and motor coaches will be available for those who do not want to drive back.www.vallenevado.com
Combine incentive trip to Santiago with the Atacama Desert
The town of San Pedro de Atacama
San Pedro de Atacama – often referred to just as San Pedro – is the capital of the district and one of the many oases in the Chilean altiplano or high plains situated 1,670 km north of Santiago. The Spaniards founded a mission here in 1557 and built a chapel on the banks of the San Pedro River, 2,445 metres above sea level. Formerly the centre of the Atacama culture, today San Pedro has a population of around 2,500 and is considered the archeological capital of Chile with its extreme geographic position, its beautiful landscape and its eternal blue sky.
The construction of a new museum in San Pedro de Atacama has commenced (June 2008). This is expected to be an important icon in Atacama with the building of complementary infrastructure with two esplanages, research laboratories as well as a cafeteria and complete auditorium for 120 people completed to international standards.
The nearest city is Calama with regular flights from Santiago. The flight time is just two hours and, from Calama, it is a 1½ hour transfer by road along the excellent highway which passes through a stunning landscape on the way to San Pedro. www.sanpedrodeatacama.cl
Explora Hotel (boutique hotel) - Deluxe resort option - 5 days / 4 nights or 4 days / 3 nights
Situated on the Ayllu de Larache just outside the oasis town of San Pedro de Atacama, the Explora’s stunning architecture reflects its surroundings with the use of local colours and handicrafts. Its design is at the same time bold and contemporary with rooms opening off corridors linking three patios. Gardens and orchards lead you through the grounds to saunas and infinity pools. www.explora.com
There are 50 rooms, each with their own Jacuzzi and outstanding view of the surrounding landscape. Accommodation is luxurious, with wood and tile accents, soft linens and custom-designed furniture as well as superb bathrooms. Facilities include a restaurant, bar, music and games room, library, four connected outdoor swimming pools, sauna, outdoor Jacuzzi, massage service and private stables.
The programme at Explora in Atacama includes accommodation, full board and daily excursions with bilingual guides. The daily excursions suit all levels, from gentle treks in Death Valley to climbing volcanoes and exploring the turquoise lagoons and foothills of the Andes.
What to expect
In Atacama every month of the year is vibrant. The climate is magnificent throughout the year, with more than 90% of the days being radiant with blue skies. Winter runs from June through to August when the average daytime temperature is 72° F and 39° F at night. Days are very pleasant, inviting you to take it easy and enjoy the warmth of the sun. During the summer from January to March, the temperature fluctuates between 81° F and a minimum of 50° F at night. During the warmer season we recommend a restful siesta after a day’s adventure and before the evening’s activities begin.
For the excursions and explorations during the day we suggest you bring a parka or waterproof windbreaker, long trousers, good quality hiking boots (leather or waterproof fabric), a hat to protect from the wind, sunglasses with fasteners, lip protection, a headband to protect your forehead and ears from the wind, sun block, and a swimsuit. The hotel’s dress code is informal. Each visitor should wear the clothes that best suit their spirit and needs – elegance at Explora is an inner virtue…
Arrival
Upon arrival from Santiago at Calama airport, you will be met and transferred by PMV to your hotel in the amazing oasis village of San Pedro de Atacama. The group will be welcomed with a cocktail reception on the main terrace of the hotel, serving drinks and hors d’oeuvres. We can arrange exclusive use of the terrace for groups using at least 25 hotel rooms. A singer and accompanying guitarist playing typical Chilean music will provide the entertainment. A Hospitality Desk will provide guests with all the details of the various excursions and options for the next few days. Make the most of the hotel’s pools and saunas before a late afternoon transfer to Moon Valley for a spectacular sunset cocktail.
The programme at Explora in Atacama includes accommodation, full board and daily excursions with bilingual guides. In addition, we will prepare some further enhancements and activities for your group. The hotel has an excellent chef and will offer three different menu suggestions to choose from for lunch and dinner. Wine, beer and soft drinks will be served with the meals.
Magical Sunset
On the first evening the group will be taken by minibus to Moon Valley for an unforgettable sunset and to watch the stars in the desert. This is truly one of the most amazing landscapes you have ever seen. Walk across the dunes up to the top of the valley, where waiters will await the group with the famous Chilean Pisco Sour and empanadas for you to enjoy as you watch the day turn to night.
Evening enhancements
Diablada
A diablada is a form of typical Andean dancing. The group will be welcomed at the patio by the dancers before proceeding to the main restaurant for dinner.
Folkloric music
An informal Chilean barbecue can be arranged at the front of the Explora by the stables. A folkloric group will perform Andean music while the group selects excursions for the next day. The bar will remain open until the last guest retires.
Farewell evening
A local band will meet everybody at the lobby to lead you to the Quincho along torchlit pathways for a candlelit farewell dinner. The Quincho is a rustic dining area with a central bonfire, made especially for a Chilean barbecue. Dinner will be a typical “asado” with live music, dancing and an open bar.
The ultimate wow factor! Hot air ballooning over the Atacama desert
Experience a balloon ride at 13,000 feet above sea level with spectacular views!
The balloon flights depart from San Pedro de Atacama, with amazing views of Lascar and Licancabur Volcanoes, Valley of the Moon, Salar de Atacama, the desert and much more. The actual flight duration will be 45-90 minutes, depending on the wind, and you will be picked up from the hotel at around 07:00 and return at 11:30, allowing plenty of time for transfers and balloon preparation and of course a champagne toast!
Hot air balloon flights also start at Geiser del Tatio with impressive views of the vapour of the geysers.
For photography buffs…
Flights can also be arranged to take place in tethered balloons at 180 feet above the ground, depending on the winds, offering fabulous views of the impressive fuming geysers, altiplanic valley and volcanoes. The photography will be truly unforgettable.
Convention Centres
There are three main convention centres in Santiago.
Casa Piedra is located in the heart of Vitacura, close to most of the 5-star Hotels & shopping malls, where all the commercial and business activity is conducted. There are 10 conference rooms of differing sizes that can be altered to create spaces from 30 sqm to 1,458 sqm.
Espacio Riesco is located in Huechuraba with good access from any meeting point in Santiago - 20 minutes from the Airport, 20 minutes from downtown Santiago, 8 minutes from Vitacura area, 10 minutes from La Dehesa and 15 minutes from Las Condes (Hotel Hyatt, Kennedy, Marriott). Espacio Riesco has a total of 12 meeting rooms, with a capacity for up to 6,500 people and offers the latest in technological equipment. It also offers 4 exhibition halls. Open air areas (asphalted plaza) allow temporary, air-conditioned pavilions to be set up converting the area into the best exhibition space. With a surface area of 28,000 sqm, equipped with 1,800 kva tri-phase and single-phase electric energy supply and Broadband internet connection.
Sheraton Santiago Hotel & Convention Centre
In walking distance of legendary sites, including Pablo Neruda’s house, Parque Metropolitano Zoo, San Cristóbal Hill, the district’s best shopping, restaurants and bars, the Sheraton Santiago Hotel and Convention Centre is also just 12 minutes from the airport and an easy drive from Viña del Mar. The Convention Centre is the largest hotel meeting facility in the country, complete with state-of-the-art architecture and technology. Staff at the venue will do whatever is necessary to accommodate a meeting of 10 to 1,500 or more. The capacity of meeting facilities varies according to the meeting space set-up. All meeting rooms are handicap accessible and suitable restrooms are available.
Welcome Gifts
- Postcard with different motifs
- Book markers
- Notebook with typical motifs
- Copper keychain with typical motifs
- Chile map in painted copper (small)
- Copper enameled keychain with diff. Motifs
- Spoon with enamel diff. Motifs
- Wooden Moai (Easter Island design) 10 cms
- Chile map in painted copper (large)
- Earring in silver with lapis (diff. Designs
- Small pendant in silver and lapis
- Enamel dish 10 cms
- Copper or bronze box with lapis lazuli application
- Wooden Moai (Easter Island design) 15 cms
- Pyramid in different stones onyx and lapis lazuli
- Earring (hanging) in silver with lapis (diff. Designs
- Copper or bronze pen container
- Copper box with enamel and typical motifs
- Letter opener with bronze handle in shape of moai in lapis
- Letter opener with bronze handle lapis
- Keychain in alpaca (copper and silver alloy) with lapis
- Enamel dish 15 cms
Specialist Groups
- Sports Tours – football, cricket, rugby, bowls, skiing, golf, sailing, rowing, trekking
- Horse Racing
- Farming and Agricultural
- Aviation Historians
- Film production companies
- Nature and bird-watching
- Museum and art-lovers tours
- Product launches
- Charity Groups
- CSR groups
- Photography tours
- Wine tours
- School group