Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrive in Chile's vibrant capital and get oriented with the city's historic heart and panoramic viewpoints.
Morning
After arriving at Santiago International Airport, settle into your accommodation and head to
Plaza de Armas de Santiago, the historic heart of the city. This central square is surrounded by colonial architecture, street performers, and the magnificent
Metropolitan Cathedral. Stroll through the surrounding streets to absorb the energy of downtown Santiago and admire the neoclassical buildings.
2-3 hours
$10
Lunch
A traditional Chilean restaurant near
Plaza de Armas serving local specialties
Chilean (empanadas, pastel de choclo)
Mid-range
Afternoon
La Moneda Palace and Sky Costanera
Visit La Moneda Palace, the
presidential palace and a symbol of Chilean democracy. Take a guided tour to learn about its historical significance. Later, head to Sky Costanera at Centro Costanera, Latin America's tallest building, for breathtaking 360-degree views of Santiago with the Andes as a backdrop. The observation deck provides an excellent orientation to the city's layout.
3-4 hours
$20-25
Sky Costanera tickets can be purchased on-site, but sunset times get busy
Evening
Dinner in Lastarria neighborhood
Explore the bohemian Lastarria district with its tree-lined streets, art galleries, and diverse dining options offering everything from Chilean classics to international fusion cuisine
Where to Stay Tonight
Lastarria or Bellas Artes neighborhood (Boutique hotel or mid-range accommodation)
Central location provides easy access to main attractions and excellent dining options for your Santiago stay
The metro is clean, efficient, and inexpensive. Purchase a Bip! card at any metro station for seamless travel throughout Santiago.
Day 1 Budget: $120-150
Explore Santiago's largest urban park and venture into the nearby Andes for spectacular mountain scenery.
Morning
Parque Metropolitano de Santiago
Take the funicular up Cerro San Cristóbal within Parque Metropolitano de Santiago, one of the world's largest urban parks. Visit the iconic Virgin Mary statue at the summit and enjoy panoramic views of the city against the Andes. Explore the park's trails, botanical gardens, and perhaps visit the Chilean National Zoo. The morning light offers the clearest mountain views before afternoon haze settles in.
3-4 hours
$8-12
Lunch
A casual eatery in Providencia neighborhood with outdoor seating
International or Chilean
Mid-range
Afternoon
Cajón del Maipo excursion
Drive southeast to Cajón del Maipo, a stunning Andean canyon just 50km from Santiago. The dramatic landscapes feature turquoise rivers, towering peaks, and traditional mountain villages. Visit the Embalse El Yeso reservoir with its spectacular blue-green waters surrounded by mountains, or explore hiking trails and local artisan markets. The canyon offers a taste of Chile's mountain wilderness within easy reach of the capital.
5-6 hours
$40-60
Join a guided tour or rent a car; public transportation to the best viewpoints is limited
Evening
Return to Santiago for dinner
Dine in the Bellavista neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife, colorful street art, and diverse restaurants serving everything from seafood to grilled meats
Where to Stay Tonight
Lastarria or Bellas Artes neighborhood (Same accommodation as Day 1)
Staying in the same location allows you to settle in and explore different aspects of central Santiago
Bring layers for Cajón del Maipo as temperatures drop significantly in the mountains, even during summer months.
Day 2 Budget: $130-170
Fly north to Calama and transfer to the oasis town of San Pedro de Atacama, gateway to otherworldly desert landscapes.
Morning
Flight to Calama and transfer to San Pedro
Take a morning flight from Santiago to Calama (approximately 2 hours). Upon arrival, transfer to San Pedro de Atacama, a charming adobe village 100km away that serves as the base for exploring the
Atacama Desert. The drive offers your first glimpses of the dramatic desert landscape. Spend the afternoon acclimatizing to the altitude (2,400m) and exploring the town's artisan markets and whitewashed streets.
5-6 hours including flight and transfer
$120-180
Book flights well in advance for better prices; many hotels offer airport transfers
Lunch
A casual restaurant on San Pedro's main street serving local specialties
Chilean and Andean
Budget
Afternoon
Town exploration and acclimatization
Wander through San Pedro's compact center, visiting the charming church on the main plaza and browsing local craft shops. Take it easy today to adjust to the altitude before tomorrow's early start. Visit a local museum to learn about the indigenous Atacameño culture and the region's unique ecosystems. The afternoon is perfect for organizing your desert excursions for the coming days.
2-3 hours
$10-15
Evening
Stargazing preparation and early dinner
Enjoy an early dinner at a restaurant with outdoor seating, then consider an optional stargazing tour—the Atacama has some of the clearest skies on Earth
Where to Stay Tonight
San Pedro de Atacama town center (Mid-range hotel or guesthouse with desert views)
Central location provides easy access to tour operators and restaurants while you explore the Atacama region
Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol on your first day at altitude to minimize discomfort and maximize energy for adventures ahead.
Day 3 Budget: $180-240
Explore the surreal lunar landscapes and hidden lagoons that make the
Atacama Desert legendary.
Morning
Valley of the Moon exploration
Visit the Valley of the Moon, a spectacular landscape of sand dunes, stone formations, and salt caves that resembles the lunar surface. Hike through the otherworldly terrain, exploring salt caverns and climbing dunes for panoramic desert views. The morning light illuminates the formations beautifully, and temperatures are more comfortable for hiking. The valley's unique geology creates an unforgettable experience of nature's sculpting power.
3-4 hours
$15-20
Tours typically depart mid-afternoon for sunset, but morning visits offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
Lunch
A café in San Pedro with vegetarian options and fresh juices
International and Chilean
Mid-range
Afternoon
Lagunas Escondidas de Baltinache
Discover the Lagunas Escondidas de Baltinache, a series of hidden salt lagoons with impossibly turquoise waters set against the stark desert landscape. These seven small lagoons offer incredible photo opportunities and the unique experience of floating in salt-rich water. The contrast between the vibrant blue water and beige desert creates a surreal scene. The remote location means fewer visitors than more famous sites.
3-4 hours
$30-40
Join a guided tour as the lagoons are located on unmarked desert roads
Evening
Sunset at Valley of the Moon or dinner in town
If energy permits, return to Valley of the Moon for sunset (most tours include this), or relax with dinner at a restaurant featuring local ingredients and pisco cocktails
Where to Stay Tonight
San Pedro de Atacama town center (Same accommodation as Day 3)
Maintaining your base in San Pedro allows for efficient exploration of different desert attractions
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat—the desert sun is intense even in cooler months, and UV radiation is strong at this altitude.
Day 4 Budget: $110-150
Wake before dawn to witness the spectacular El Tatio geysers erupting in the morning cold.
Morning
El Tatio geyser field
Depart San Pedro around 4am to reach El Tatio, the world's highest geyser field at 4,320m altitude, for sunrise. Watch as dozens of geysers shoot steam columns up to 10 meters high in the frigid morning air, creating a dramatic spectacle against the Andes backdrop. The geothermal activity is most impressive at dawn when the temperature difference is greatest. Some tours include breakfast and the opportunity to bathe in natural hot springs nearby.
6-7 hours total
$40-50
Book this tour in advance as it's very popular; bring warm layers as temperatures can drop below freezing
Lunch
Return to San Pedro for a late lunch at a restaurant with hearty soups and local dishes
Chilean comfort food
Mid-range
Afternoon
Rest and optional town activities
After the early morning excursion, take the afternoon to rest and recover. Explore San Pedro's artisan markets for souvenirs, visit local galleries showcasing Atacameño art, or relax at your accommodation. If you're feeling energetic, rent a bicycle to explore nearby archaeological sites or oases. The afternoon is intentionally light to allow recovery from the altitude and early wake-up.
Flexible
$10-20
Evening
Farewell dinner in San Pedro
Enjoy your last evening in the Atacama with dinner at a restaurant featuring regional specialties, perhaps trying llama or alpaca meat dishes traditional to the Andean region
Where to Stay Tonight
San Pedro de Atacama town center (Same accommodation as previous nights)
Final night in San Pedro before tomorrow's journey south to the Lake District
The return journey from El Tatio often includes stops at wetlands where you can spot flamingos and vicuñas in their natural habitat.
Day 5 Budget: $120-160
Fly south to Temuco and transfer to the adventure capital of Pucón on the shores of Lake Villarrica.
Morning
Flight to Temuco via Santiago
Depart San Pedro early for the return journey south. Most routes require a connection through Santiago before continuing to Temuco in the
Lake District. The journey showcases Chile's incredible geographical diversity as you transition from desert to temperate forests. Upon arrival in Temuco, transfer 100km east to Pucón, a lakeside town nestled beneath the snow-capped Villarrica Volcano.
6-8 hours including connections and transfer
$150-220
Book flights well in advance; some travelers prefer to fly directly from Calama to Santiago then onward to Temuco
Lunch
A lakeside restaurant in Pucón with views of Villarrica Volcano
Chilean and international
Mid-range
Afternoon
Pucón town exploration and lake activities
Settle into Pucón and explore this charming adventure tourism hub. Stroll along the black sand beach on Lake Villarrica's shore, browse outdoor gear shops on the main street, and enjoy the spectacular volcano views. If time and energy permit, rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore the lake, or simply relax and prepare for the coming days of adventure in Parque Nacional Villarrica.
2-3 hours
$15-25
Evening
Dinner with volcano views
Dine at a restaurant with outdoor seating overlooking Lake Villarrica, sampling local trout and Chilean wines from nearby valleys
Where to Stay Tonight
Pucón town center or lakefront (Mid-range hotel or cabin with lake or volcano views)
Central Pucón location provides access to tour operators, restaurants, and serves as your base for exploring the Lake District
Pucón's main street has numerous tour agencies—shop around and book your volcano climb or other activities for the coming days this evening.
Day 6 Budget: $200-260
Explore Parque Nacional Villarrica with options for volcano climbing or forest hiking and hot springs.
Morning
Parque Nacional Villarrica exploration
Enter Parque Nacional Villarrica, home to the active Villarrica Volcano and pristine temperate rainforest. Adventurous travelers can attempt the challenging volcano summit climb (6-8 hours, requires good fitness and proper gear), while others can enjoy forest hikes to viewpoints, waterfalls, and crater lakes. The park offers trails through ancient araucaria (monkey puzzle) forests and stunning volcanic landscapes. Multiple difficulty levels ensure everyone finds suitable activities.
4-8 hours depending on activity
$60-150
Volcano climbs must be booked with certified guides and require crampons and ice axes; book 1-2 days ahead
Lunch
Pack a lunch for your park adventure, or eat at a simple restaurant near the park entrance
Packed lunch or simple Chilean fare
Budget
Afternoon
Termas Geometricas relaxation
After your morning adventure, soak tired muscles at Termas Geometricas, one of Chile's most beautiful hot springs complexes. Seventeen geometric pools are nestled in a narrow river canyon surrounded by native forest, connected by wooden walkways. The Japanese-inspired design creates a serene atmosphere where you can relax in naturally heated mineral waters while listening to the rushing river. The setting is truly magical and perfect for recovery.
3-4 hours
$30-35
Arrive in late afternoon when day-trippers have left for a more peaceful experience
Evening
Casual dinner in Pucón
Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a pizzeria or casual restaurant in town—you've earned it after today's adventures
Where to Stay Tonight
Pucón town center or lakefront (Same accommodation as Day 6)
Staying in the same location allows you to settle in and explore different aspects of the region
Bring a swimsuit and towel for Termas Geometricas, and arrive before sunset to enjoy the pools in daylight before they're illuminated at night.
Day 7 Budget: $150-220
Journey south through the
Lake District, visiting spectacular waterfalls before reaching Puerto Varas.
Morning
Scenic drive and local exploration
Begin your journey south toward Puerto Varas, but take your time to enjoy the
Lake District's beauty. Stop at viewpoints overlooking pristine lakes, visit small towns, and explore the region's German heritage visible in architecture and cuisine. The route passes through stunning landscapes of volcanoes, forests, and farmland. Consider stopping at local markets to sample regional products like honey, cheese, and smoked meats.
3-4 hours with stops
$40-60
Rent a car for flexibility, or take a bus and arrange tours from Puerto Varas
Lunch
A German-style café or restaurant in one of the
Lake District towns
German-Chilean fusion (kuchen, sausages)
Mid-range
Afternoon
Arrival in Puerto Varas and town exploration
Arrive in Puerto Varas, known as the 'City of Roses,' situated on the shores of Lake Llanquihue with views of Osorno and Calbuco volcanoes. Explore the town's German colonial architecture, colorful houses, and lakefront promenade. Visit the iconic church overlooking the lake and browse artisan shops. The town's charm and spectacular volcano views make it one of Chile's most picturesque destinations.
2-3 hours
$10-15
Evening
Lakefront dinner
Dine at a restaurant along the costanera (waterfront) with views of Osorno Volcano, enjoying fresh lake fish or traditional curanto (if available)
Where to Stay Tonight
Puerto Varas town center or lakefront (Mid-range hotel with lake and volcano views)
Central location in Puerto Varas serves as your base for exploring Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park and the surrounding region
Puerto Varas has excellent chocolate shops and cafés—the German influence means outstanding kuchen (cakes) and pastries.
Day 8 Budget: $130-170
Visit the stunning Petrohué Waterfalls and explore the dramatic landscapes around Osorno Volcano.
Morning
Petrohué Waterfalls
Drive to Petrohué Waterfalls, where the turquoise Petrohué River cascades over ancient volcanic rock formations in Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park. The vivid emerald-green water contrasts beautifully with black volcanic rock and the snow-capped Osorno Volcano backdrop. Walk the trails and viewing platforms to appreciate different perspectives of these powerful falls. The area offers excellent photography opportunities and the chance to understand the region's volcanic geology.
2-3 hours
$8-12
Lunch
A restaurant near Petrohué or pack a picnic to enjoy in the national park
Chilean or packed lunch
Budget to Mid-range
Afternoon
Lake Todos los Santos and optional activities
Continue to Lake Todos los Santos (also called Emerald Lake), a stunning glacial lake surrounded by temperate rainforest and volcanoes. Take a short boat ride to appreciate the lake's incredible color and mountain reflections, or hike one of the trails through ancient forests. The area offers kayaking, fishing, and simply enjoying one of Chile's most beautiful natural settings. Return to Puerto Varas via the scenic route around Lake Llanquihue.
3-4 hours
$30-50
Boat trips operate regularly but check schedules, especially in shoulder season
Evening
Dinner in Puerto Varas
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the town center, perhaps trying local salmon or lamb dishes paired with Chilean wine
Where to Stay Tonight
Puerto Varas town center or lakefront (Same accommodation as Day 8)
Another night in Puerto Varas allows you to fully explore the region without rushing
The road to Petrohué offers stunning volcano views on clear days—start early for the best visibility before afternoon clouds roll in.
Day 9 Budget: $120-160
Fly south to Punta Arenas and transfer to Puerto Natales, gateway to Torres del Paine National Park.
Morning
Flight to Punta Arenas
Take a morning flight from Puerto Montt (30 minutes from Puerto Varas) to Punta Arenas, Chile's southernmost city. The flight offers aerial views of
Patagonia's dramatic landscapes, fjords, and glaciers. Upon arrival, transfer to Puerto Natales, a small port town 250km north that serves as the base for Torres del Paine explorations. The drive passes through quintessential Patagonian steppe with guanacos and ñandus (rheas) often visible.
5-6 hours including flight and transfer
$120-180
Book flights in advance for better prices; many hotels offer Punta Arenas airport transfers
Lunch
A restaurant in Puerto Natales serving Patagonian lamb and local seafood
Patagonian (lamb, king crab, seafood)
Mid-range
Afternoon
Puerto Natales exploration and preparation
Explore Puerto Natales, a charming town with colorful corrugated metal houses facing the Última Esperanza Sound. Visit outdoor gear shops to ensure you have proper equipment for Torres del Paine, browse artisan markets, and walk along the waterfront promenade. Confirm your Torres del Paine arrangements and prepare for the coming days in one of the world's most spectacular national parks.
2-3 hours
$10-20
Evening
Dinner and early rest
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant featuring Patagonian specialties like cordero al palo (spit-roasted lamb) or centolla (king crab), then rest early for tomorrow's adventure
Where to Stay Tonight
Puerto Natales town center (Mid-range hotel or guesthouse)
Central Puerto Natales location provides easy access to restaurants and tour operators for your Torres del Paine visits
Puerto Natales has several excellent outdoor gear shops where you can rent equipment if needed—prices are reasonable and quality is good.
Day 10 Budget: $180-240
Enter the legendary Torres del Paine National Park and witness its iconic granite towers and turquoise lakes.
Morning
Torres del Paine National Park entry and wildlife viewing
Depart early for Torres del Paine National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and one of Earth's most spectacular wilderness areas. The 2-hour drive offers your first views of the iconic granite towers rising from the Patagonian steppe. Enter the park and begin wildlife spotting—guanacos, foxes, condors, and possibly pumas inhabit this pristine landscape. Stop at viewpoints to photograph the Torres themselves and the stunning turquoise lakes created by glacial meltwater.
4-5 hours
$35-45
Park entrance must be pre-booked online during high season; bring cash as some facilities don't accept cards
Lunch
Pack a lunch to enjoy at a scenic viewpoint, or eat at a park cafeteria
Packed lunch or simple park food
Budget to Mid-range
Afternoon
Lago Grey and glacier viewing
Drive to Lago Grey, where massive icebergs calved from Grey Glacier float in the lake's grey-blue waters. Walk the lakeshore trail for spectacular views of the glacier and floating ice. Consider taking an optional boat trip that navigates among the icebergs for close-up glacier views. The contrast between the white ice, blue water, and surrounding mountains creates an unforgettable Patagonian scene.
3-4 hours
$30-80
Boat trips to the glacier should be booked in advance, especially in peak season
Evening
Return to Puerto Natales
Drive back to Puerto Natales for dinner and rest, reflecting on your first day in this incredible park
Where to Stay Tonight
Puerto Natales town center (Same accommodation as Day 10)
Returning to Puerto Natales each evening is more economical than staying in the park and allows for comfortable lodging
Patagonian weather changes rapidly—bring layers including waterproof jacket and pants even if the morning starts sunny.
Day 11 Budget: $150-210
Hike to dramatic viewpoints and explore more of the park's diverse ecosystems and wildlife.
Morning
Mirador Las Torres base hike or alternative trails
For fit hikers, tackle the challenging trek to Mirador Las Torres, a 8-10 hour round-trip hike that culminates at the base of the iconic granite towers with a glacial lake. Alternatively, choose shorter hikes like the Cuernos viewpoint trail or Valle del Francés for spectacular mountain scenery with less commitment. All trails offer opportunities to see guanacos, Andean condors, and the park's diverse flora adapted to harsh Patagonian conditions.
4-10 hours depending on chosen hike
$0-40
Start very early for the Las Torres hike; shuttle services to trailheads can be arranged through tour operators
Lunch
Pack a substantial lunch with high-energy snacks for your hike
Packed lunch
Budget
Afternoon
Continued hiking or alternative park exploration
Continue your chosen hike or, if you opted for a shorter morning activity, explore other areas of Torres del Paine National Park. Visit the
Salto Grande waterfall where Lake Nordenskjöld dramatically cascades between turquoise pools, or drive the park roads stopping at wildlife viewing areas and photographic viewpoints. The afternoon light beautifully illuminates the mountains and creates excellent photography conditions.
3-4 hours
$10-20
Evening
Farewell dinner in Puerto Natales
Celebrate your Patagonian adventure with a special dinner featuring local specialties and Chilean wine, sharing stories of your Torres del Paine experiences
Where to Stay Tonight
Puerto Natales town center (Same accommodation as previous nights)
Final night in Puerto Natales before beginning your return journey north
The famous Patagonian wind typically strengthens in the afternoon—plan strenuous activities for morning hours when conditions are calmer.
Day 12 Budget: $130-180
Fly back to Santiago with time to explore neighborhoods you missed or revisit favorites.
Morning
Flight to Santiago via Punta Arenas
Transfer from Puerto Natales to Punta Arenas for your flight back to Santiago. The journey retraces your path through Patagonian steppe, offering final opportunities to spot wildlife and photograph the dramatic landscapes. The flight north provides aerial perspectives of Chile's incredible geographical diversity, from
Patagonia's ice fields to central valleys and mountains. Arrive in Santiago by afternoon.
6-7 hours including transfer and flight
$120-180
Book morning flights when possible to maximize your final day in Santiago
Lunch
A restaurant in Santiago's Mercado Central for fresh seafood
Chilean seafood
Mid-range
Afternoon
Neighborhood exploration and shopping
Explore Santiago neighborhoods you missed earlier, such as the artistic Barrio Italia with its antique shops and cafés, or upscale Vitacura for shopping. Visit artisan markets to purchase souvenirs including lapis lazuli jewelry, Chilean wine, or local crafts. Alternatively, revisit favorite spots from your first days or simply relax at a café, reflecting on your Chilean adventure while watching city life unfold.
3-4 hours
$20-40
Evening
Farewell dinner in a special Santiago restaurant
Choose an upscale restaurant in Lastarria or Providencia for a memorable final dinner, celebrating your journey through Chile with excellent food and wine
Where to Stay Tonight
Near airport or city center depending on flight time (Mid-range hotel convenient for departure)
Strategic location for easy airport access tomorrow while still allowing evening enjoyment of Santiago
Many shops close on Sundays, so if you need last-minute souvenirs, shop today or visit the airport stores tomorrow.
Day 13 Budget: $180-240
Final morning in Chile before your departure flight home.
Morning
Leisurely breakfast and final exploration
Enjoy a relaxed final morning in Santiago. Depending on your flight time, visit a local café for breakfast, take a final walk through your favorite neighborhood, or visit any last-minute sights. If time permits and you haven't yet visited, the Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos offers important insights into Chilean history. Otherwise, simply savor a final pisco sour while reminiscing about your incredible journey.
2-3 hours
$15-25
Lunch
A quick meal at the airport or a nearby restaurant depending on flight time
Chilean or international
Mid-range
Afternoon
Airport transfer and departure
Transfer to Santiago International Airport, allowing plenty of time for check-in and security. The airport has good shopping including Chilean wine, pisco, and artisan products if you want final souvenirs. Reflect on your incredible two-week journey from the
Atacama Desert's otherworldly landscapes through the
Lake District's volcanoes and forests to
Patagonia's dramatic peaks and glaciers—a true showcase of Chile's extraordinary natural diversity.
Variable
$15-30
Arrive at the airport 3 hours before international flights
Evening
Departure
Board your international flight home with memories of an unforgettable Chilean adventure
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (N/A)
Departure day
Keep some Chilean pesos for airport purchases, though major credit cards are widely accepted at Santiago's international terminal.
Day 14 Budget: $80-120