Chile & Argentina: Capital Cities & Hiking Patagonia

In the heart of a valley surrounded by mountains and crossed by a river lies Santiago, Chile’s capital. An emerging, vibrant and cosmopolitan city that blends cultural expressions, local cuisine and expansive museums with its perfect location between the ocean and Andes. As you make your way into the city from the airport, savour the sights, sounds and smells. We welcome you to Chile, and invite you to indulge in what this entire region has to offer you on the adventure ahead. Arrive to Santiago at any time and transfer to the hotel. Meet your fellow group members at the welcome meeting in the evening and get all the important information about the adventure ahead. Afterwards, head to a nearby restaurant for a delicious welcome dinner with new friends.

Included Experiences

• Arrival Transfer: You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
• Meet Your CEO and Group: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

Feel the breeze on your face as you pedal along next to vineyards in view of the surrounding mountains. Take a pause to sample some of the local wines produced from the fertile land in the valley, fed by mineral-rich water coming down from the Andes, and feel even more connected to the land you are exploring. Pass the day cycling through the vineyards of the Maipo Valley and visit wineries along the way for some included tastings paired with a gourmet lunch at one of the properties. Travel back to the hotel in Santiago where you will enjoy a free evening. Dinner is at your leisure.

Included Experiences

• Full-Day Cycling Vineyards & Winery Experience: Start the adventure be pedalling through the Andean foothills and deeper into the Chilean countryside. Savour the wine culture at three wineries in the Maipo Valley, a secret oasis on the outskirts of Santiago. Cycle past vineyards, admire the scenery and stop for lunch and tastings along the route. The wine produced here is among the best in Chile. A traditional lunch will be had before visiting a property that has one of the oldest wine cellars in the country, established in 1885.

Take to the skies as you fly south to what seems like the end of the earth and into the vast wilderness of Patagonia. The temperatures will be a bit cooler, yet the air fresh. The anticipation builds as you imagine the outdoor exploration in the coming days. In the morning, board a flight to Puerto Natales and transfer to the hotel for check-in. Set out on an orientation walk of Puerto Natales with your CEO before taking some free time to grab lunch on your own or explore the town. In the evening, attend a briefing with your mountain guides before a group dinner at a local restaurant.

Included Experiences

• Plane: Sit back and enjoy the flight from Santiago to Puerto Natales.
• Free Time: Spend a few hours free to find lunch on your own and get to know the town.

Gaze across to Torres del Paine National Park as you tighten up your laces and take the first few steps along the trail. Starting at Mirador Grey, a viewpoint located outside the park near Lago Toro, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the Paine massif and the impressive Grey Glacier. Breathe in the fresh air and soak in the spectacular views across the pampas (grasslands) as you hike to your lodgings that will serve as your base for the next few days. An early breakfast will be available at the hotel before transferring via private vehicle to a viewpoint called Mirador Grey, where today’s hike begins. Walk along this trail and have lunch amid the epic scenery. Arrive at the hotel in the early afternoon and take advantage of free time to rest or become acquainted with the property.

Included Experiences

• Mirador Grey Torres Del Paine Hike: The group will hike from the viewpoint to your hotel, winding through the mountains from Mirador Grey, past a small tip of Laguna Claudio, and ending at Río Serrano.

Most people when they picture Torres del Paine likely are seeing Las Torres in their mind. This crown jewel of the park is also known as Base Torres, and is the viewpoint for three very distinct granite rock towers shooting up from the glacier lake below them. On a clear day the blue sky above the impossible turquoise of the lake and the grey peaks covered in white snow is breathtaking, making it a view you will never forget. This morning the group will travel from the hotel to the Torres del Paine Visitor Centre. From here, set off on a hike to the base of the Towers. An included box lunch will be had upon arrival to the top before the return trip. Travel back to the hotel in the early evening where dinner will be served.

Included Experiences

• Las Torres Hike: Be prepared to lose your breath - from the hike AND the gorgeous views! Trek along the Torres del Paine trail to the base of the towers themselves. Enjoy the view of the three pink granite towers that make this park famous. Distance:: 22km (14 mi) roundtrip, in and out along the same trail Time: 7-9 hours. Elevation gain: 750m (2,460 ft)

You will enjoy impressive views of Grey Glacier as you hike the trail next to the lake of the same name, looking across to the tongue of the glacier and the rock island known as Nunatak. The fresh air combined with the rugged terrain will have your heart thumping and endorphins flowing in one of the most stunning landscapes on earth. Travel to Pudeto and take a ferry to Paine Grande Campsite. Hike from the camp to the sightseeing point of Grey Glacier. Sit down to enjoy lunch during the trek. There will be some free time back at the Paine Grande Campsite before the ferry back to Pudeto. Arrive back to the hotel for dinner.

Included Experiences

• Ferry: Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
• Grey Lake Viewpoint Hike: Hike to Grey Lake outlook and enjoy amazing views across the lake. Glacier Grey makes a stunning background. Head back to Paine Grande campsite to hop on the ferry back to Torres del Paine where a private van will be waiting to take you back to your hotel. Locations: Paine Grande Camp to Grey Lookout Distance travelled: 11km (7 miles) Time: 4 hours Elevation gain: 400m (1,315 ft)

Catch the last views of Torres del Paine's iconic peaks as you travel east into Argentina and to the town of El Calafate, near the edge of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. Keep your eyes peeled for roaming guanacos and herds of sheep along the way in the grassy flatlands that the southern cowboys call home. Spend most of the day on a private transfer from Torres del Paine to El Calafate, with a hearty boxed lunch en route. Along the way, cross the border between Chile and Argentina. Arrive at the hotel in the early evening and enjoy free time to check out the town and find a spot for dinner.

Included Experiences

• Border Crossing (Chile - Argentina): Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.
• Free Time: Spend a free evening at your accommodation near Calafate and explore on your own. Dinner will be at your leisure.

Hold your breath as you watch a massive chunk of ice calve from the face of Perito Moreno Glacier and crash into the lake below. As you get closer you will see why this is one of the most scenic landscapes in the world. Become immersed in the landscape and feel humbled by the grandiosity of nature. Travel to Los Glaciares National Park and set out to explore the walkways of the Perito Moreno Glacier with your guide and CEO. Sit down for a boxed lunch with an epic view. Travel back to the hotel in El Calafate where there will be free time to unwind and find a restaurant for dinner.

Included Experiences

• Free Time: The group will have free time to wander the walkways of Perito Moreno Glacier with a guide and your CEO. Then, sit down for a box lunch to eat with a view of the glacier.

Journey to your OMG Stay in the sheer wild beauty of Parque Nacional Los Glaciares. Sail across Lago Argentino into the misty atmosphere of this park in the southern corner of the planet, and spend the next few days in the elegant comfort of this unique lodge. The property is located in a glacier valley protected from the elements, but fully exposed to panoramic views of nearby mountains and lakes. Use this opportunity in the untamed Patagonia landscape to connect with the inherent power of nature. In the morning, transfer to Punta Bandera by private vehicle and navigate by boat across Lago Argentino to the OMG Stay, set back along the shores of the Cristina Channel. Soak in amazing vistas as you float by Upsala and Spegazzini glaciers. Arrive at the property around midday to get settled and have lunch. This afternoon enjoy free time to become acquainted with your OMG property at your own pace. Choose from a variety of activity options like self-guided hikes, birdwatching, a guided historical walk, or even a horseback ride through the Rio Caterina Valley. Sit down for an included dinner at the estancia this evening.

Included Experiences

• Navigation Through Upsala Glacier and Cristina Channel: Navigate via ferry through Upsala Glacier and Cristina Channel en route to your OMG Stay property. Soak in amazing vistas as you float by Upsala, one of South America's largest glaciers.
• Free Time: Spend a free afternoon on the ranch property after lunch. Grab a book and read amid the stunning surroundings, go for a walk, take some photos or simply sit back and stare at the wild landscape before you.

Optional Experiences

• Horseback Riding From Estancia Cristina: Set out on horseback through the Río Caterina Valley with visits to Pearson Lake, and Norte & Moyano hills. Ride at a leisurely place past mountains and lagoons into the immense wilderness of Patagonia.
• Self-guided Hiking Trails: Explore scenic paths near and around the property at your own pace.
• Guided Historical Walk: Set off on a guided historical walk to learn about the estancia’s pioneer past and cultural heritage.
• Estancia Cristina Birdwatching: Spot native species in their natural habitat.
• Visit to the Cristinita Boat: Discover the story of the Cristinita, a small boat used in early explorations.

The land surrounding Estancia Cristina is seeped in a raw beauty that never ceases to amaze the adventurous traveller. With a choice between two curated experiences, you will be immersed in the true essence of Patagonia. Begin with a 4x4 ride up to the Upsala Viewpoint to admire views of the glacier. Choose between three different activities to make a memorable afternoon in Patagonia's impressive natural landscapes. Choose between three different options to spend your time at the Estancia. Hike the Cañadón de los Fósiles guided by an expert. Enjoy a peaceful walk to Cascada de los Perros. Or hike to Cerro Carnero and gain a complete view of the valley and the Cordillera de Los Andes cradled by glaciers. Lunch and dinner will be included back at the Estancia.

Included Experiences

• Expedition to Upsala Glacier: This morning, get close to the scenery that's been taunting you from the road and ferry. Take off-road 4x4 vehicles to Upsala Glacier's former domain. Cruise along wild routes through native forests within the Feruglio mountain range. Delve into the most sacred part of Estancia Cristina—the only land-based lookout point of the Glaciar Upsala.
• Hiking Cañadón de los Fósiles, Cascada de los Perros, or Cerro Carnero: Option 1: Choose to hike the Cañadón de los Fósiles. This is a challenging 14km hike featuring a high-altitude fossil canyon exploration with a guide. Option 2: Enjoy a 40-minute roundtrip, easy and gentle hike to a scenic waterfall called Cascada de los Perros, with a guide. Option 3: Hike to Cerro Carnero and gain a complete view of the valley and the Cordillera de Los Andes cradled by glaciers. The hike is a total of 10km with 470m in elevation gain which takes about 5 hours to complete. The group will ascend gradually to appreciate Canal Cristina and the main lodge of the Estancia. The return trip will be along a different path with equally as stunning views.

As you wake up in the cozy atmosphere of the lodge, you will naturally gaze out of one of the wide windows for views of the pristine landscape. Savour the last moments you have in this remote and striking part of the world before you return to civilization, where a typical Patagonian feast awaits. Take advantage of free time in the morning to partake in a few optional activities offered from the ranch, like horseback riding near Pearson Lake or a hike to Los Perros waterfall. Enjoy lunch back at the ranch before travelling back to Punta Bandera via boat. Transfer by private vehicle to the hotel in El Calafate and sit down for a delicious Patagonian meal as a group dinner.

Included Experiences

• Ferry: Hop onboard the ferry for one last thrilling navigation from Estancia Cristina to Puerto Punta Bandera. Keep your eyes and ears alert for wildlife along the way.
• Traditional Patagonian Feast: Cap off your adventure with a delicious and traditional Patagonian feast. Devour freshly baked flaky empanadas, stews, pastas, salads, barbecued steaks, lamb roasted over the fire and more.
• Free Time: Enjoy one final free morning at Estancia Cristina. Choose between two available optionals this morning. The first is a horseback ride visiting Norte and Moyano hills with views of Pearson Lake. The second option is a 5.5km trek to Los Perros waterfall. Lunch will then be served at the ranch before departure.

Optional Experiences

• Horseback Riding From Estancia Cristina: Set out on horseback through the Río Caterina Valley with visits to Pearson Lake, and Norte & Moyano hills. Ride at a leisurely place past mountains and lagoons into the immense wilderness of Patagonia.
• Los Perros Waterfalls Hike From Estancia Cristina: Hike uphill towards Cascada de Los Perros, uncover hidden spots along that way that reveal the landscape surrounding Lago Argentino and Lago Pearson.

As you fly north you may still catch glimpses of glaciers and jagged peaks on the way to Buenos Aires. Sprawling and vibrant, the city will welcome you with a frenetic yet endearing energy as you wander the streets and neighbourhoods, lined with shops and restaurants surrounded by beautiful architecture. Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before travelling to the airport in El Calafate for an afternoon flight to Buenos Aires. Transfer to the hotel for check-in and explore the city on your own during a free evening. Perhaps, opt for dinner and a tango show.

Included Experiences

• Plane: Sit back and enjoy the flight north from El Calafate to Buenos Aires.
• Free Time: Spend the first evening in Buenos Aires on your own. Become acquainted with the city and opt for dinner and a tango show.

Optional Experiences

• Buenos Aires Tango Show: Let professional dancers enchant you with this passionate dance. Once banned for its sensuality, tango is now an icon of Buenos Aires and a must-see when visiting this vibrant city. Enjoy a delicious multi-course meal paired with Argentine wine while taking it all in.

The real Buenos Aires lies in the neighbourhoods and in the alluring flavours of local cuisine. Pedal away from the main part of the city and visit landmarks, squares and monuments while your guide explains the history, and finds places along the way for you to stop and try small snacks. Relax with a slow morning at the hotel before beginning your private cycling tour of Buenos Aires. Explore the south area of the city and stop for delicious snacks along the way. The afternoon is free to continue experiencing Buenos Aires on your own. There will be a farewell group dinner tonight at a local restaurant.

Included Experiences

• Foodie Bike Tour of Buenos Aires: The day begins with a private foodie bike tour of Buenos Aires. The route highlights the best of the city's flavours at the best local spots. Experience family-run restaurants from as early as 1930 while learning about the history, culture and traditions of these kitchens within the city. Fall in love with the local favourites and begin to understand why food is such a passion for Argentinians. The tour lasts five hours and you will travel a total of 13km.
• Free Time: Take advantage of a few hours of free time to continue exploring Buenos Aires. Find a fun spot to grab some lunch on your own, and then opt to visit the opera house or La Boca neighbourhood.

Optional Experiences

• La Boca Neighbourhood Visit: Visit La Boca to soak in the vibrancy of the barrio’s brightly coloured buildings and El Caminito (a cobblestone street lined with artist studios that’s often used as an impromptu setting for tango performances). Or, if lucky, catch a match at fabled La Bombonera, the home stadium of the Boca Juniors’ fútbol club (the crowd's excitement is electric!).
• Teatro Colón Tour: Explore this stunning opera house on a guided tour and find out why it is voted one of the best acoustic venues in the world.

Today your adventure comes to an end, but the memories made during your time in Chile & Argentina will live on. Depart at any time.