Nestled within the majestic Andes Mountain Range, the Inca Lagoon beckons adventurous travelers with its serene waters and stunning natural surroundings. Visitors can embark on a comprehensive tour that not only explores this picturesque locale but also introduces them to the region’s rich winemaking heritage. After seeing the lagoon’s tranquility, guests are treated to a guided tour of a local vineyard, where they’ll savor the flavors of exquisite reserve wines that capture the essence of this breathtaking landscape. From the awe-inspiring vistas to the indulgent tasting experience, this multifaceted excursion promises to leave a lasting impression on all who venture forth.
Key Points
- This tour offers a 9-hour journey from Santiago to San Esteban Vineyard and Inca Lagoon, with a guided vineyard tour and wine tasting.
- The tour includes free pickup, private vehicle transport, and stops at scenic locations like Laguna del Inca and Paso Internacional Los Libertadores.
- Visitors can explore the serene Inca Lagoon, with opportunities for sightseeing, hiking, and skiing at the nearby Portillo Ski Resort.
- The tour features a maximum of 15 travelers for an intimate experience, with knowledgeable guides praised for their educational and enjoyable tours.
- Visitors can expect stunning views of the Andes mountains, opportunities to interact with llamas, and flexible and patient guides throughout the tour.
Tour Overview and Details
This 9-hour tour from Santiago whisks visitors away to the scenic San Esteban Vineyard and the captivating Inca Lagoon, boasting over 700 reviews and a Badge of Excellence.
It’s an ideal countryside trip, with a fully narrated experience and free time to explore at your own pace.
You’ll be transported in a private, comfortable vehicle and enjoy a winery tour, tastings, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, this tour provides an intimate and personalized adventure.
Whether you’re seeking stunning views, insider information, or a chance to savor local wines, this tour delivers an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Andes.
Taste buds happy? More delicious discoveries we love in Santiago
Itinerary Highlights
The tour kicks off with a pickup from hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs in downtown Santiago around 7:30 am.
This is followed by a scenic 90-minute drive to the renowned San Esteban Vineyard. Upon arrival, guests will embark on a guided tour of the vineyard and enjoy a tasting of two reserve wines.
The next stop is the breathtaking Inca Lagoon, where travelers will have free time to take in the stunning views, visit the nearby ski resort, and enjoy lunch at their own expense.
Along the way, the tour makes stops at several scenic locations, including In Situ Family Vineyards, Laguna del Inca, Los Andes, and the Paso Internacional Los Libertadores.
Transportation and Logistics
Free pickup from hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs located in downtown Santiago (Providencia, Las Condes, Vitacura) is provided, with the exact pickup time confirmed the night prior. For those accommodated outside the downtown area, a meeting point is arranged for convenient transportation.
Pickup Location | Departure Time | Drop-off Point |
---|---|---|
Downtown Santiago | 7:30 AM | Hotel or Specified Location |
Outside Downtown | Determined by Meeting Point | Hotel or Specified Location |
Confirmation | Night Prior to Tour | – |
The comfortable, private vehicle ensures a seamless journey through the scenic Andes, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the stunning views along the way.
Winery Tour and Tasting
After the scenic drive, visitors then explore the renowned San Esteban Vineyard, where they embark on a guided tour to learn about the winemaking process and the vineyard’s unique terroir.
The tour provides an insider’s perspective, allowing guests to witness the dedication and passion of the winemakers.
During the tasting, travelers savor the complex flavors of the vineyard’s reserve wines, gaining a deeper appreciation for the local craftsmanship.
The experience evokes:
-
A sense of wonder at the meticulous attention to detail
-
A heightened appreciation for the region’s natural splendor
-
A newfound respect for the art of winemaking
-
Delight in discovering the distinctive character of each varietal
-
Lasting memories of an authentic, immersive wine adventure.
Inca Lagoon and Skiing
Next, participants venture forth to the captivating Inca Lagoon, where they’ll find ample opportunities to enjoy the region’s natural splendor. Nestled amidst the majestic Andes, the lagoon enchants visitors with its serene azure waters and breathtaking vistas, inviting them to savor the tranquility and cultural richness of the setting.
Activity | Description |
---|---|
Sightseeing | Explore the scenic overlooks and snap photos of the stunning landscape. |
Ski Resort | Visit the nearby Portillo Ski Resort and enjoy the slopes or take in the views. |
Hiking | Embark on gentle hikes around the lagoon to fully appreciate the natural surroundings. |
Dining | Indulge in a delightful lunch at the Portillo restaurant, taking in the panoramic vistas. |
Relaxation | Simply sit back, relax, and bask in the serene ambiance of the Inca Lagoon. |
Scenic Stops Along the Way
On the journey to the Inca Lagoon, the tour makes several captivating stops that showcase the region’s natural beauty and cultural significance. These scenic vistas provide ample opportunities for unforgettable moments and breathtaking photographs.
The In Situ Family Vineyards offer a glimpse into the heart of Chile’s winemaking tradition, with lush vineyards framed by the majestic Andes.
Laguna del Inca, a stunning glacial lake, reflects the rugged peaks and serves as a serene oasis amidst the dramatic landscape.
The awe-inspiring Paso Internacional Los Libertadores, a high-altitude mountain pass, delivers panoramic views of the surrounding Andes.
Los Andes, a charming town, allows travelers to enjoy the local culture and explore its quaint streets.
The Ventisquero Guardia Vieja, a historic glacier, stands as a testament to the region’s geological wonders.
Packing and Preparation
To ensure a comfortable and prepared journey, travelers are advised to bring a few essential items.
Sunblock and a wind jacket are highly recommended to protect against the varying weather conditions encountered throughout the tour.
Plus, comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the itinerary involves a small amount of walking.
While lunch isn’t included, the Portillo restaurant at Inca Lagoon offers a range of dining options.
It’s important to note that the winery is closed on Sundays, but an alternative tasting location will be provided.
Customer Experiences and Feedback
Travelers have overwhelmingly lauded this tour, with an impressive 5.0 rating from over 705 reviews and a prestigious Badge of Excellence.
Reviewers raved about the knowledgeable guides who provided insider information, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.
The stunning views of the Andes and serene Inca Lagoon left a lasting impression, with many highlighting the memorable moments, such as:
-
Interacting with friendly llamas
-
Capturing breathtaking photos at scenic stops
-
Savoring the delicious local wines during the tasting
-
Appreciating the patience and flexibility of the guides
-
Embracing the weather variations with layered clothing
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour does not offer an option to extend the duration. However, travelers can arrange additional activities or explore the area independently after the scheduled 9-hour tour concludes and they’ve been dropped off at their accommodation.
Can I Book Private Tours for Larger Groups?
Yes, the tour company offers private tours for larger groups. They can accommodate parties of up to 15 travelers and will work with you to customize the itinerary based on your group’s preferences and needs.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?
The tour provider offers flexible cancellation policies. Customers can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour start time and receive a full refund. There may be fees for cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Wine Tasting?
The tour allows for dietary accommodations, so guests with any dietary restrictions can enjoy the wine tasting. Just let the tour operator know about your needs in advance to ensure a pleasant experience.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, though lunch is not included. The tour focuses on the winery visit and tasting, so bringing additional provisions is allowed to supplement the experience.
Recap
Enjoy the captivating natural wonders of the Andes as you explore the serene Inca Lagoon.
Indulge in the region’s rich winemaking heritage.
This comprehensive tour offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, leaving you with unforgettable memories of the stunning landscapes and local cultural experiences.
More Food & Drink Experiences in Santiago
- Half Day Trip to Undurraga Vineyard From Santiago – Wine Tasting Included
- Colchagua Valley Tour & Tasting
- Santiago: Private Bar Tour With Beer and Cocktail Tasting
- Premium Wine Tasting and Tour at Santa Rita + Private Transport
- Private Tour: Undurraga Vineyard Experience With Premium Wine Tasting
- Santa Rita Winery – Tour With Tasting
More Tour Reviews in Santiago
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Santiago we have recnetly reviewed
- 2 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Santiago
- 2 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Santiago Chile
- 5 Best Dining Experiences In Santiago Chile
- 7 Best 2 Day Tours In Santiago
- 5 Best Dinner Tours In Santiago Chile
- 2 Best Shopping Tours In Santiago
- 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Santiago
- 2 Best BBQ Experiences In Santiago
- 5 Best Food Tours In Santiago
- 2 Best Coffee Tours And Tastings In Santiago
- 15 Best Dining Experiences In Santiago
- 13 Best Dinner Tours In Santiago