Majestic Landscapes of Chile

From the otherworldly Atacama Desert to the snow-capped peaks of the Andes in Patagonia, from the vibrant streets of Santiago to the serene vineyards of the Colchagua Valley—experience Chile in all its breathtaking contrasts. This journey from North to South unveils a land of extremes, where adventure meets indulgence and nature’s grandeur takes center stage.

Trip duration: 2.5 to 3 weeks
Best travel time: Chilean spring (September–November) to enjoy sunshine, avoid large crowds, and witness nature coming to life
Recommended for: Couples, honeymooners, families with kids older than 10 years
Flights from Europe to Santiago connect via Paris, Madrid or London

Cities: Santiago & Valparaiso

After one of the longest non-stop flights from Europe, it’s only natural to begin your journey in Santiago de Chile, the country’s dynamic capital, nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Andes Mountains. With 6.86 million inhabitants, Santiago offers a vibrant mix of history, culture, and modernity.

Start by exploring the city's past at Plaza de Armas and the presidential palace with a local guide. Enjoy panoramic views from Cerro San Cristóbal, either by hiking or taking the funicular, and wander through the bohemian streets of the Bellavista district. Stroll through Parque Bicentenario de Vitacura, where sculptures and lush greenery create a tranquil retreat. Food lovers shouldn’t miss Mercado Central, renowned for its fresh seafood, ceviche, and congrio (eel stew). End the day with fine dining in Lastarria (try Bocanáriz) or sip a Pisco Sour at a stylish rooftop bar like the one at the W Hotel. For relaxation, unwind by your hotel’s rooftop pool—Ladera Hotel offers excellent value.

Just 1.5 hours away, Valparaíso makes for a perfect day trip. This historic port town, known for its street art, eclectic architecture, and funiculars, has a unique bohemian charm, though parts may feel a little run-down. Behind every corner, there’s something new to discover, from hip cafés to colorful murals.

Wine connoisseurs should make a stop for a tasting in the Casablanca Valley, renowned for its Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Gewürztraminer.

Beach enthusiasts can complement their trip with a visit to the sophisticated seaside destination of Reñaca, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant promenade.

The Atacama Desert

A two-hour flight from Santiago, followed by a scenic one-hour drive through the vast desert, brings you to the laid-back oasis of San Pedro de Atacama. The diversity within this arid yet mesmerizing region is astonishing — towering volcanoes pierce the sky, rivers have carved dramatic gorges through deep red rock formations, and salt lakes shimmer against the barren backdrop. Amidst this seemingly desolate terrain, flamingos, vicuñas and towering cacti reveal the abundance of life that thrives here. For us, this is one of the most magical places on Earth.

For travelers seeking a luxurious retreat in the Atacama — or in Patagonia, for that matter — one of the most debated decisions is: Tierra or Explora? If horseback riding is your passion, Explora might be the perfect fit.
However, we fell in love with the Tierra Atacama. Here, "all-inclusive" means far more than just gourmet dining, it means expertly guided adventures every day including: Hiking through Guatín Canyon, where rivers have sculpted breathtaking rock formations. An off-road expedition to the otherworldly Salar de Tara, a high-altitude salt flat (4,300m) with surreal landscapes and towering stone monoliths. Exploring the famed El Tatio Geysers and natural hot springs — or for the truly adventurous, embarking on a volcano climb. Not to mention the charming picnic setups, stylish hotel & Spa facilities, and fascinating fellow travelers you can engage with on a small group tour.

Luxury knows no limits: For bespoke travelers seeking privacy and exclusivity, Awasi — a Relais & Châteaux property with just 12 suites and private guides — offers an intimate and unparalleled experience.

Patagonia

With its towering mountains, glaciers, fjords, forests, windswept steppes, and abundant wildlife, Patagonia is far more than just another beautiful hiking destination—it is one of the last true wildernesses on Earth. Nearly three times the size of Germany, this vast region is divided between Chile and Argentina, with the Andes Mountains forming the natural border between the two. This means there are many “roads” to adventure.

A stunning place to experience the southernmost reaches of South America is Torres del Paine National Park in Chile. With its luxury lodges and extraordinary natural beauty, it is the perfect destination for hiking enthusiasts who appreciate untouched nature, high comfort, and easy accessibility. Getting there is seamless — a three-hour flight to Puerto Natales, followed by a scenic two-hour transfer.

Once in Torres del Paine, the possibilities are endless: Hike up the iconic peaks of the W track for breathtaking views. Sip whisky over glacial ice as you glide along Grey Glacier on a boat. Walk through the Patagonian steppe, spotting guanacos, ñandúes, maras, foxes and condors — or, if you're truly lucky, a puma on the hunt. See ancient cave paintings left by Patagonia’s indigenous people or explore the wild terrain on horseback.

Just like in the Atacama Desert, Torres del Paine offers a range of exclusive accommodations. Choose from elegant luxury lodges like Tierra Patagonia or Explora, where small-group excursions are offered in style, or opt for maximum exclusivity and privacy in one of the 14 private villas at Awasi Patagonia. Whichever you choose, you’ll be surrounded by wild, untouched landscapes teeming with life.

Beyond Torres Del Paine: More Adventures Await

For those who can’t get enough, Patagonia offers countless options to extend the journey — from the Carretera Austral in the north to the "end of the world" in Tierra del Fuego. Or how about a 50-minute scenic helicopter flight to El Calafate for another once-in-a-lifetime experience? A trek on the Perito Moreno Glacier is an unforgettable highlight — one of the few places in the world where walking on a glacier is still possible.

Wine Country

For those who appreciate world-class wines and picturesque landscapes, Colchagua Valley, located just two hours south of Santiago, is the perfect stop to end the trip and reflect on the past weeks of adventure. Nestled in the heart of Chile’s premier wine country, this sun-drenched region is celebrated for its rolling vineyards and its elegant red wines, such as Carménère and Cabernet Sauvignon.

At the pinnacle of Colchagua’s wine experience stands the Clos Apalta Residence, an intimate and exclusive retreat set within the iconic Lapostolle winery estate. This ultra-luxurious hideaway is designed for discerning travelers seeking privacy, culinary indulgence, and a deep insight into the art of winemaking. With only 10 cottages, each featuring a private terrace overlooking the vineyards, Clos Apalta offers an unmatched level of exclusivity.

While Clos Apalta provides an unrivaled retreat, Colchagua Valley invites exploration. Discover renowned wineries such as Viu Manent, Neyen, and Montes (with Francis Mallmann’s celebrated wood-fire grill at Fuegos de Apalta).