Nestled within the majestic Andes mountains, Inca Lagoon beckons visitors to explore its serene shores and uncover the rich cultural legacy of the Inca civilization. Complementing this awe-inspiring natural wonder is a delightful wine tasting experience at a local vineyard, where travelers can savor the region’s finest vintages. This captivating 10-hour adventure seamlessly blends the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes with the opportunity to take in the vibrant winemaking traditions that have shaped the local culture. As you embark on this unforgettable journey, the promise of discovering the delicate balance between nature and winemaking excellence awaits.
Key Points
- The tour includes a 1.5-hour wine tasting experience at Viña San Esteban vineyard, showcasing regional wines and winemaking processes.
- Participants have the opportunity to explore the scenic and culturally significant Laguna del Inca, subject to seasonal accessibility.
- The tour also includes a stop at the Portillo Ski Center, allowing visitors to experience this renowned winter sports destination.
- Restroom and snack stops are provided along the scenic drive on the Los Libertadores Road for participant comfort.
- The tour accommodates up to 15 participants and offers multilingual options (English, Spanish, Portuguese) for a diverse audience.
Tour Overview
What does this tour entail? The Inca Lagoon with Local Vineyard and Tasting tour offers an immersive experience in the stunning scenery of Chile’s Andes.
Priced from $99 per person, the 10-hour adventure includes a wine tasting at a local vineyard, exploration of the picturesque Inca Lagoon, and a visit to the Portillo Ski Center.
The tour accommodates up to 15 participants and is available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Pickup is provided from various locations in Santiago.
Highlights include scenic drives, stops for restrooms and snacks, and an opportunity to interact with llamas on the return journey.
Inclusions cover the wine tasting, lagoon entry, restroom access, and lunch at the Portillo Restaurant.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Los Andes.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with pickup from accommodations in Santiago, followed by a scenic drive along the Los Libertadores Road.
Passengers will make restroom and snack stops en route.
The first activity is a visit to a local vineyard, Viña San Esteban in Valparaiso, where they’ll enjoy a 1.5-hour wine tasting experience.
Next, the group explores the picturesque Laguna del Inca for 1 hour and the Portillo Ski Center for another hour.
The journey continues with a stop at the Paso Internacional Los Libertadores and Ventisquero Guardia Vieja.
On the return trip, there’s an opportunity to interact with llamas.
Inclusions
The tour includes a wine tasting at the local vineyard, Viña San Esteban in Valparaiso. This allows participants to sample the region’s renowned wines and learn about the winemaking process.
Plus, the tour provides free entry to the Inca Lagoon, giving visitors the opportunity to explore this stunning natural wonder.
The tour also includes:
- Access to restroom facilities along the route for comfort and convenience.
- Lunch at the renowned Portillo Restaurant, subject to seasonal availability, ensuring a delectable dining experience.
- Transportation in air-conditioned mini-buses with professional drivers, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey.
- The chance to interact with llamas during the return journey, adding a unique and memorable touch to the excursion.
Important Notes
One key thing to note is that the wine tasting isn’t available on Sundays, in which case an alternative location will be provided.
During the winter season, access to the lagoon shores may be restricted due to weather conditions.
Plus, the lunch options at the Portillo Restaurant may vary based on seasonal closures at the Portillo Hotel.
For guests staying outside the downtown area, the meeting point arrangements will be made separately.
These important considerations will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience throughout the tour.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCustomer Feedback
Customers have provided a range of feedback on the Inca Lagoon with Local Vineyard and Tasting tour. Based on 10 reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5.
Positive comments praised the tour’s scenic beauty, particularly of the Inca Lagoon. However, there were mixed experiences regarding accessibility to the lagoon shores, as well as the service at the Portillo Restaurant.
Suggestions were made to improve the introduction to the winery and adjustments to the itinerary.
Key feedback points include:
- Stunning scenery at the Inca Lagoon
- Varying accessibility to the lagoon shores
- Mixed dining experiences at the Portillo Restaurant
- Desire for more engaging winery introductions
Scenic Drive Stops
Along the scenic drive on the Los Libertadores Road, the tour makes several restroom and snack stops to allow participants to refresh themselves.
These stops provide a chance to take in the breathtaking mountain landscapes and prepare for the next segment of the journey.
The drive offers panoramic views of the Andes, with opportunities to photograph the dramatic peaks and valleys. Guests can stretch their legs, use the facilities, and enjoy light refreshments before continuing on to the local vineyard and Inca Lagoon.
These stops are strategically placed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout the day-long excursion.
Wine Tasting Experience
Guests then venture to the local Viña San Esteban vineyard, located in the Valparaiso region, for an immersive wine tasting experience.
The tasting lasts approximately 1.5 hours, providing visitors with the opportunity to:
- Sample a variety of the vineyard’s finest wines, from crisp whites to bold reds.
- Learn about the winemaking process and the unique terroir of the region.
- Engage with knowledgeable staff who share insights on the history and flavor profiles of each varietal.
- Enjoy the picturesque setting of the vineyard, surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery.
This hands-on experience allows guests to truly appreciate the local winemaking traditions and flavors of the Valparaiso region.
Lagoon and Ski Center Exploration
Departing the vineyard, the tour makes its way towards the iconic Laguna del Inca, or Inca Lagoon. This serene body of water nestled in the Andes is a highlight of the excursion. Visitors can explore the picturesque shoreline and soak in the stunning mountain scenery. The tour also includes a stop at the Portillo Ski Center, where guests can wander the grounds and learn about this renowned winter sports destination.
| Breathtaking Views | Serene Atmosphere | Historical Significance |
|---|---|---|
| The Inca Lagoon is surrounded by towering peaks, offering awe-inspiring vistas. | The tranquil waters of the lagoon create a peaceful ambiance for visitors to enjoy. | The lagoon and surrounding area hold deep cultural significance, with ties to the Inca civilization. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Transportation to the Starting Point Included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from various locations in Santiago, such as Vitacura, Las Condes, and Providencia. The transportation is provided in air-conditioned mini buses with professional drivers as part of the tour package.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t specify a dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear are recommended to fully enjoy the outdoor activities and explore the scenic locations. Visitors should dress in layers for potential changes in temperature or weather conditions.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Participants can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a lunch at the Portillo Restaurant, as well as wine tasting at a local vineyard. Outside food and drinks aren’t permitted during the excursion.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t appear to have any age restrictions. It’s open to participants of all ages, though the wine tasting portion may not be suitable for minors. Children are welcome to join the tour and explore the Inca Lagoon and other sights.
Can I Extend My Stay at the Vineyard or Lagoon?
While the tour itinerary doesn’t explicitly mention extending your stay at the vineyard or lagoon, you can likely request additional time on-site if you coordinate with the tour operator in advance. However, this may incur additional fees or require adjustments to the overall schedule.
The Sum Up
This immersive experience blends the natural beauty of Inca Lagoon with the rich winemaking heritage of Viña San Esteban. Visitors embark on a scenic Andean drive, indulge in a captivating wine tasting, and then explore the serene shores of the lagoon, surrounded by the majestic mountains that held deep cultural significance for the Inca civilization. This tour offers a unique opportunity to connect with the region’s natural and cultural treasures.
You can check if your dates are available here: