Expedition Details
Explore two of Chile’s greatest treasures: the breathtaking Atacama Desert and the soaring peaks and ice-blue lakes of Torres del Paine National Park. Settle into some of South America’s most exquisite properties, and delve into a variety of magnificent landscapes, hiking along salt pans, riding horseback across alpine meadows, and swimming in natural hot springs in a desert oasis.Trip Highlights
- Discover the moonscapes, oases, and dunes of the driest desert on Earth in the company of naturalists.
- Encounter unique wildlife, including guanacos, rheas, tinamous, vicuñas, and three varieties of flamingo.
- Spend four nights at the spectacular Explora Lodge.
- Step into the home of renowned poet Pablo Neruda in Santiago.
Itinerary - 13 Days
Days 1 & 2 — U.S./Santiago, Chile/ San Pedro de Atacama
Depart on an overnight flight to Calama connecting through Santiago, Chile. Upon arrival, transfer to San Pedro de Atacama and check into Tierra Atacama, a luxury boutique hotel on the edge of this picturesque oasis village.
Tierra Atacama (D)
Days 3, 4, & 5 — Atacama
Spend the next few days exploring the jewels of the Atacama by foot, bicycle, or four-wheel-drive with local guides. Set out on your choice of Altiplano excursions designed for all interest and fitness levels. Spot three varieties of flamingo on the Salar de Atacama salt flat. Hike through the surreal landscapes of the Valle de la Luna, or discover the Puritama Hot Springs and El Tatio Geysers. Discover the history of the region and its vibrant culture on guided visits to churches and age-old dwellings, and learn about its ancient artistic traditions.
Tierra Atacama (B,L,D Daily)
Day 6 — Atacama/Santiago
Depart Tierra Atacama and transfer back to Calama airport for our flight to Santiago. After lunch in town, visit a handicraft village to learn about local crafts. End the day atop San Cristóbal Hill, taking in sweeping vistas of Santiago.
Plaza el Bosque Park & Suites (B,L)
Day 7 — Santiago/Puerto Natales/Torres del Paine National Park
Fly to Punta Areñas and head north overland to the small town of Puerto Natales, overlooking the Ultima Esperanza Sound. Continue across the southern pampas, looking for herds of guanacos and rheas, gray foxes, Patagonian hares, and black-necked swans. Settle into our home for the next four nights, a splendid lodge nestled in the heart of Torres del Paine National Park.
Explora Patagonia (B,L,D)
Days 8, 9, & 10 — Torres del Paine National Park
During the next three days, tailor your exploration to your interests, choosing from a variety of hiking and horseback riding excursions in the park. Discover Grey Lake and its incredibly blue ice sculptures; hike through beech forests along the shore of Laguna Azul; and venture to Salto Grande, a glacial waterfall set against stunning views of the majestic 11,000-foot Grand Paine Mountains. Photograph wildlife and the beautiful landscape near the northern limits of the park or relax at the hotel, taking advantage of its wonderful amenities. Enjoy evening lectures and cap off your stay in the park with a festive traditional barbecue.
Explora Patagonia (B,L,D Daily)
Day 11 — Torres del Paine National Park/Santiago
Today, drive to Punta Areñas airport for the flight to Santiago, stopping for lunch along the way. Arrive in Santiago this evening, and check into our hotel, located in the lively shopping district.
Plaza el Bosque Park & Suites (B,L)
Days 12 & 13 — Santiago/Miami
Our full-day exploration of Santiago includes a visit to La Chascona, the former home of Nobel poet Pablo Neruda; a visit to the civic centre of Plaza de Armas; and a farewell celebration of your Patagonian adventure at a Chilean winery. This evening, transfer to the airport for your overnight flight to Miami, arriving the next day.
(B,L)
Related Trip
National Geographic Expert
Eduardo Shaw
Eduardo Shaw grew up on the pampas of Argentina and has lived with his family in northwestern Patagonia for the past 18 years. A former teacher and now a naturalist and lecturer, he is deeply involved in local foundations and community projects that promote sustainable development. Eduardo has led National Geographic Expeditions to Antarctica as well as numerous trips to Patagonia. He looks forward to sharing his knowledge and passion for the region.
Eduardo will join the following departure:
Dec 28, 2010 - Jan 09, 2011Expedition Dates 
Expedition Costs
What To Expect
This is an active exploration of Chile with options for walks/hikes at all fitness levels. Elevations vary from approximately 150 feet above sea level at the Explora Lodge in Patagonia to 7,900 feet above sea level in San Pedro de Atacama. Many excursions involve stair-climbing and uneven footing. Participants should be physically fit. This trip is not suitable for those who suffer from a cardiac, respiratory, or circulatory disorder or a disability that limits mobility.
