Exploring the vibrant coastal cities and lush wine region outside of Santiago, this full-day tour offers travelers a well-rounded glimpse into Chile’s diverse landscape and culture. Traversing the winding streets of the UNESCO-listed port city of Valparaiso, admiring the seaside charm of Viña del Mar, and indulging in a wine tasting amidst the rolling vineyards of Casablanca Valley, this intimate excursion promises an immersive experience for those seeking to uncover the best of central Chile. With thoughtful inclusions, expert guidance, and ample opportunities to savor the local sights, sounds, and flavors, this tour might just be the key to unlocking the region’s true essence.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Santiago.

Key Points

Full Day Tour Valparaiso - Vina Del Mar and Casablanca Valley From Santiago - Key Points

  • This full-day tour from Santiago covers the highlights of Valparaiso, Viña del Mar, and Casablanca Valley, including guided tours, a funicular ride, and wine tasting.
  • The tour is priced at $130 per person, with a maximum group size of 12 travelers for an intimate experience, and includes hotel pickup and drop-off.
  • The itinerary features guided exploration of Valparaiso’s neighborhoods, free time in Viña del Mar, and a wine tasting experience in the renowned Casablanca Valley.
  • The tour is not wheelchair accessible but is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, with infant seats available for those traveling with young children.
  • The tour generally receives positive reviews, with praise for the knowledgeable guides and the highlights of the experience, though some minor areas for improvement have been noted.

Tour Overview

Full Day Tour Valparaiso - Vina Del Mar and Casablanca Valley From Santiago - Tour Overview

This full-day tour from Santiago takes visitors to the historic port city of Valparaiso, the seaside resort town of Viña del Mar, and the renowned Casablanca Valley wine region.

Priced from $130 per person, the tour lasts around 6 hours and is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers.

Hotel pickup and drop-off is included, with flexible confirmation up to 24 hours before the experience.

Highlights of the itinerary include a guided tour of Valparaiso’s vibrant neighborhoods, a funicular ride in Viña del Mar, free time to explore the local attractions, and a wine tasting in the Casablanca Valley.

The tour is recommended for travelers with moderate physical fitness, though infant seats are available.

Itinerary Highlights

Full Day Tour Valparaiso - Vina Del Mar and Casablanca Valley From Santiago - Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a guided exploration of Valparaiso’s vibrant neighborhoods, showcasing the city’s iconic street art and colorful architecture. Visitors then embark on a funicular ride in Viña del Mar, taking them down to the seaside promenade for free time to wander the beaches and local attractions. The highlight of the day is a wine tasting experience in the renowned Casablanca Valley, where guests can sample the region’s renowned vintages.

Itinerary Highlights
Guided tour of Valparaiso Funicular ride in Viña del Mar
Free time in Viña del Mar Wine tasting in Casablanca Valley
Local cuisine and attractions

Accessibility and Recommendations

While the tour offers a comprehensive experience, it’s important to consider the accessibility and physical requirements for participants.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers and service animals are allowed. It’s recommended for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as the itinerary involves some walking and navigating uneven terrain.

The tour may not be suitable for individuals with limited mobility or serious medical conditions. However, infant seats are available for those traveling with young children.

Ultimately, the tour requires a reasonable level of physical ability to fully participate and enjoy the sights and activities. Guests should assess their own fitness level before booking to ensure they can comfortably complete the day’s schedule.

Reviews and Experiences

The tour has garnered a solid 4.5-star rating based on 125 reviews, with travelers providing a mix of positive and constructive feedback.

Travelers frequently praise the knowledgeable and engaging guides, such as Julio, Ivanna, and Miguel, who bring the destinations to life with their expertise. Many highlight the tour’s standout features, including the stunning street art in Valparaiso, the opportunity to savor local cuisine, and the enjoyable wine tasting experiences.

However, some reviewers have offered suggestions for improvement, such as the need for better restaurant choices and more time allocated in Valparaiso.

While the tour generally receives enthusiastic reviews, a few travelers have reported delays due to the pickup and drop-off processes.

Important Information

Booking confirmation is provided upon purchase, and travelers can take advantage of the tour’s free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior to the experience. Some reports, however, indicate potential delays due to the lengthy pickup and drop-off processes, which travelers should consider when planning their schedules. While the tour generally receives positive reviews, a few participants have suggested enhancements to improve the experience, such as allocating more time in Valparaiso and providing more detailed information about the wine tasting.

Important Information
Confirmation Provided at booking
Cancellation Policy Free up to 24 hours before
Pickup/Drop-off Some delays reported
Suggested Improvements More time in Valparaiso, better wine tasting info

Pickup and Dropoff Details

The tour provides pickup from downtown Santiago, Vitacura, Las Condes, and Providencia district hotels and Airbnbs, with the pickup time communicated to travelers the night before the tour.

This flexible confirmation allows for last-minute adjustments up to 24 hours before the experience.

The tour then returns travelers to their original pickup locations around 6:00 pm.

Some travelers have reported experiencing minor delays due to the extensive pickup and drop-off process, though the tour operator works to minimize disruptions.

Wine Tasting Experience

A highlight of the full-day tour is the wine tasting experience in the Casablanca Valley, where travelers have the opportunity to sample the region’s renowned vintages.

The tour includes a visit to a local winery, where a knowledgeable guide leads guests through a tasting of several different wines. Visitors can learn about the winemaking process and the unique terroir of the Casablanca Valley, which is known for producing exceptional cool-climate varietals.

Many travelers rave about the quality of the wines and the chance to explore the scenic vineyards.

The wine tasting provides a perfect complement to the day’s other activities, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the flavors and culture of Chile’s vibrant wine country.

Tour Duration and Price

This full-day tour from Santiago offers a well-rounded experience, with a price point starting from $130.00 and a return time around 6:00 pm.

The tour lasts the entire day, allowing ample time to explore the highlights of Valparaiso, Vina del Mar, and Casablanca Valley.

Key features of the tour duration and price include:

  • Maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience

  • Flexible pickup from various locations in Santiago, communicated the night before

  • Comprehensive package that includes transportation, guided tours, lunch, and entrance fees

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Lunch Included in the Tour Price?

Yes, the tour price includes lunch. According to the tour overview, the price covers transport, hotel pickup/drop-off, lunch, bottled water, and entrance fees to elevators in Valparaiso.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Meal?

Yes, travelers can request vegetarian or gluten-free meal options for this tour. The tour operator accommodates dietary restrictions with advance notice, ensuring all participants have an enjoyable and comfortable dining experience.

What Languages Do the Tour Guides Speak?

The tour guides typically speak English and Spanish fluently, allowing them to provide comprehensive and engaging commentary in both languages. They’re knowledgeable about the local areas and can easily communicate with all travelers on the tour.

Is There Any Free Time for Shopping or Independent Exploration?

The tour provides free time for independent exploration, allowing travelers to shop and visit local attractions at their own pace, particularly in Viña del Mar. The itinerary balances guided experiences with opportunities for self-guided discovery.

Can I Join the Tour if I Have a Dietary Restriction or Allergy?

The tour accommodates dietary restrictions and allergies. Travelers with special dietary needs should notify the tour operator in advance, who will work to provide appropriate meal options during the tour’s included lunch.

Recap

The full-day tour from Santiago to Valparaiso, Vina del Mar, and Casablanca Valley offers an immersive experience, showcasing Chile’s stunning coastal and wine regions.

Priced affordably at $130 per person, this small-group tour provides a guided exploration of vibrant neighborhoods, a funicular ride, and a delightful wine tasting – all with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off.

Travelers can enjoy a day filled with local culture, cuisine, and breathtaking scenery on this comprehensive and informative tour.