Penguins, Sea Lions, Sandboard, Chilean Food & Drinks

Exploring the natural wonders of Chile’s coastal regions promises an unforgettable adventure. Visitors can observe the captivating behaviors of penguins and sea lions in their native habitats, then test their skills on the thrilling sandboards of the Concon Dunes. But the journey doesn’t end there – the flavors of traditional Chilean cuisine, from savory empanadas to the iconic Pisco Sour, provide a delectable complement to the day’s outdoor activities. This unique blend of wildlife encounters, adrenaline-fueled adventures, and culinary delights creates an experience that will leave travelers eager to uncover more of Chile’s hidden gems.

This experience made our list of the 3 Best Food Tours In Valparaiso.

Key Points

• Observe wild penguins and sea lions in their natural habitats during the tour.
• Experience the thrill of sandboarding on the Concon Dunes with instruction provided.
• Savor authentic Chilean cuisine, including empanadas, curanto, and humitas, accompanied by Pisco Sour and Carmenere wine.
• Enjoy an optional paragliding activity to take in stunning ocean views.
• Explore picturesque coastal regions, including Zapallar, Caleta Portales, and Viña del Mar, with the potential to spot dolphins, otters, and giant jellyfish.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

For this tour, the price ranges from $278.33 per person and the duration is between 8 to 11 hours.

The group size is limited to 8 participants, and the tour is available in English and Spanish.

Participants can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Door-to-door transportation is included, with pickup options from Santiago or Valparaiso.

Activities and Experiences

The tour offers a variety of exciting activities and experiences for participants. Highlights include:

1. Witnessing wild penguins and sea lions in their natural habitat.

2. Sandboarding down the Concon Dunes with instruction provided.

3. Optional paragliding experience (additional fee) with stunning ocean views.

Along With these thrill-seeking activities, the tour also includes the opportunity to savor typical Chilean cuisine, wine, and the iconic Pisco Sour cocktail.

Potential sightings of dolphins, otters, and giant jellyfish add to the natural wonders experienced throughout the day’s itinerary.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with pickup from Santiago or Valparaiso, followed by a scenic drive through the countryside.

At Caleta Portales, you’ll observe sea lions at the fish harbor.

The next stop is Zapallar, where you’ll take a boat trip to see penguins and enjoy a soft hike along the Pacific Ocean.

Lunch with ocean views is served at Parapente Aire Libre, with an optional opportunity for paragliding.

Afterward, you’ll experience sandboarding at the Concon Dunes, with instruction provided.

The tour concludes with a return to Valparaiso, where you may have an additional chance to view sea lions.

Included in the Tour

Included in the tour are door-to-door transportation, a boat ride to see penguins (weather permitting), water and Mate (Chilean sweets), sandboarding equipment and instructions, Chilean food, Pisco Sour, and wine, as well as a scenic drive through Vina del Mar.

The tour provides:

1. A chance to experience the local cuisine, including the iconic Pisco Sour cocktail.
2. All necessary equipment and guidance for the thrilling sandboarding activity.
3. Opportunities to observe the diverse wildlife of the region, such as penguins and sea lions.

These inclusions ensure a well-rounded and immersive experience for visitors to explore the natural wonders and cultural highlights of Chile’s central coast.

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Important Information

Visitors should bring sunscreen, flip-flops, and a windbreaker for the tour.

Weather conditions may affect the scheduled activities, but the tour operator has alternative options available.

The tour isn’t suitable for babies under one year of age.

However, the tour has received outstanding reviews from travelers from Denmark, Germany, and Mexico, with an overall rating of 5/5 based on their experiences.

The tour offers a unique opportunity to observe wildlife, engage in adventurous activities, and savor the flavors of Chilean cuisine and beverages, making it an unforgettable experience.

Scenic Drives and Landscapes

Scenic drives through the picturesque regions of Chile are a highlight of the tour. The journey takes visitors past lush vineyards, rugged coastlines, and charming seaside towns.

Some of the most scenic highlights include:

1. The drive along the Pacific Ocean, offering breathtaking views of the crashing waves and dramatic cliffs.
2. Winding roads through the Andes Mountains, showcasing the stunning natural beauty of the landscape.
3. Passing through the vibrant city of Viña del Mar, known for its gorgeous beaches and elegant architecture.

These scenic landscapes provide a perfect backdrop for the various activities and experiences that are part of the tour.

Culinary Delights

The tour’s culinary offerings provide a delightful glimpse into Chile’s vibrant food and drink culture. Participants can savor typical Chilean dishes, including fresh seafood, empanadas, and hearty stews. Complementing the meal are Chile’s renowned wines and the iconic Pisco Sour cocktail. To highlight the diverse flavors, consider the following table:

Dish	Description
Empanadas	Flaky pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables
Curanto	A traditional stew with seafood, meat, and potatoes
Humitas	Steamed corn cakes wrapped in corn husks
Pisco Sour	A refreshing cocktail made with the Chilean brandy Pisco
Carmenere Wine	A bold red wine with notes of dark fruit and spice

Indulging in these culinary delights offers a multi-sensory experience that immerses travelers in the rich gastronomic heritage of Chile.

Traveler Experiences

Travelers who embark on this captivating tour often rave about the unforgettable experiences they encounter. From observing the playful antics of wild penguins and sea lions to conquering the thrill of sandboarding, this tour promises a wealth of adventure.

Highlights include:

1. Witnessing the majesty of nature as you boat alongside penguins and spot dolphins, otters, and giant jellyfish.

2. Indulging in the distinct flavors of Chilean cuisine, sipping on the iconic Pisco Sour, and savoring local wines.

3. Embracing the opportunity for optional paragliding, soaring over the breathtaking coastline and taking in the panoramic vistas.

These unforgettable experiences make this tour a must-do for those seeking a truly immersive and memorable journey through Chile’s stunning coastal regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Gopro Cameras Allowed During the Tour?

Yes, GoPro cameras are allowed on the tour. Participants are welcome to capture their experiences with their personal cameras and action devices during the various activities and sightseeing stops throughout the day.

What Is the Best Time of Year to See the Penguins?

The best time to see penguins on this tour is typically during the summer months of December to March, when the weather is mild and the penguins are more active along the coast.

Can I Book the Tour in Advance From My Home Country?

Yes, travelers can book the tour in advance from their home country. The tour operator offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility for travelers to plan their trip accordingly.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Sandboarding Activity?

The tour does not have a minimum age requirement for the sandboarding activity. However, it’s not suitable for babies under 1 year old due to the nature of the tour activities and transportation.

Can I Book the Paragliding Option Separately From the Tour?

Yes, the paragliding option can be booked separately from the tour. Participants have the flexibility to add the paragliding experience during the tour for an additional fee, allowing them to customize their adventure.

The Sum Up

Embark on an adventure through Chile’s stunning coastal landscapes, where you’ll observe captivating wildlife, carve down sand dunes, and savor the flavors of traditional Chilean cuisine. This immersive experience offers an unforgettable blend of nature, adrenaline, and culinary delights, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.

You can check if your dates are available here: