The "Portillo – Inca Lagoon Full Day" tour promises an unforgettable journey through the stunning Andes mountains. Departing from Santiago, this 10-hour excursion takes adventurers on a captivating exploration of the region’s natural wonders. From photo stops at the historic Chacabuco Monument to a guided visit to the breathtaking Laguna del Inca, the tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into the area’s natural beauty and cultural significance. With a knowledgeable guide providing insights in Portuguese and Spanish, participants can enjoy the serene landscape while indulging in a picnic lunch. But the true wonder lies in what awaits beyond the typical highlights of this remarkable day trip.
Key Points
- This full-day tour from Santiago takes visitors to the Chacabuco Monument, Los Caracoles road, and the stunning Inca Lagoon, with a guided tour and picnic lunch.
- The tour is priced at €62.87 per person, lasts approximately 10 hours, and features live commentary in Portuguese and Spanish.
- Highlights of the tour include photo stops at key locations and a 2-hour guided tour of the Inca Lagoon, a sacred site for the Incas.
- Cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours prior for a full refund, and the tour is subject to rescheduling due to inclement weather.
- The tour includes transportation and a knowledgeable guide, but excludes breakfast, entrance fees, and personal expenses.
Tour Overview
The tour, titled "Portillo – Inca Lagoon Full Day," offers an immersive experience for visitors, with a price tag of €62.87 per person.
Lasting approximately 10 hours, the tour departs from Santiago, with a live guide providing commentary in Portuguese and Spanish.
Highlights include photo stops at the Chacabuco Monument, the scenic Los Caracoles road, and the Chile/Argentina border. Guests can also enjoy a guided tour of the stunning Laguna del Inca, followed by a picnic lunch.
The total duration of the tour, including pickup and drop-off, is around 12 hours, providing ample time to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the region.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Laguna Del Inca.
Itinerary Highlights
Breakfast kicks off the day’s activities, providing guests a 40-minute window to fuel up before the adventure begins.
The tour then moves on to a series of photo stops, each lasting around 20 minutes, at the:
- Chacabuco Monument
- Los Caracoles road
- Chile/Argentina border
Next, a guided tour of the Laguna del Inca, lasting 2 hours, allows guests to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the region.
A picnic lunch, lasting 1.5 hours, offers a chance to refuel and relax amidst the breathtaking surroundings.
The day concludes with the return trip to Santiago.
Cancellation and Rescheduling
Adhering to the tour’s cancellation and rescheduling policy, guests may cancel their reservation up to 24 hours prior to the tour date for a full refund.
Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour are non-refundable.
The tour is subject to rescheduling due to inclement weather. In such cases, the tour operator will provide a full refund if rescheduling isn’t feasible.
This flexible policy allows customers to adjust their plans without fear of losing their investment, ensuring a hassle-free experience throughout the booking and tour processes.
Inclusions and Exclusions
This full-day tour to Portillo and the Inca Lagoon includes the transportation and services of a knowledgeable guide.
The tour package covers the following:
- Picnic lunch during the excursion
- All transportation from the pickup location in Santiago to the various stops along the route
- The services of a professional guide who provides commentary and insights throughout the journey
However, the tour doesn’t include:
- Breakfast at the start of the tour (available for an additional fee)
- Lunch (only a picnic is provided)
- Entrance tickets or fees to any sites or attractions visited during the tour
- Drinks and other personal expenses.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Customers have provided valuable feedback on their experiences with this Portillo – Inca Lagoon Full Day tour.
With an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 14 reviews, the tour seems to be a hit with travelers. Reviewers highlight the friendly guide and the beautiful landscapes they encountered.
However, the transportation and value for money received slightly lower ratings of 3 and 3.5 out of 5, respectively. While the picnic was enjoyed, some customers may have hoped for more inclusions in the tour price.
Breathtaking Chacabuco Monument
Atop the winding roads of the Andes, the Chacabuco Monument stands as a striking testament to the region’s rich history. This imposing structure commemorates the Battle of Chacabuco, a pivotal event in Chile’s fight for independence.
Visitors are captivated by the monument’s grandeur, which features:
- A towering obelisk rising against the breathtaking backdrop of the Andes
- Intricate carvings and sculptures depicting historical figures and scenes
- Sweeping vistas that showcase the rugged, snow-capped peaks surrounding the site
- Informative plaques and exhibits that provide context and insight into the battle’s significance
- A serene, contemplative atmosphere that invites travelers to pause and reflect on the region’s past.
As a cherished stop on the Portillo – Inca Lagoon tour, the Chacabuco Monument offers a powerful connection to Chile’s heritage and a deeply moving experience for all who visit.
Traversing Los Caracoles Road
Winding its way through the craggy Andes, the legendary Los Caracoles road captivates travelers on the Portillo – Inca Lagoon tour.
This treacherous yet scenic route offers breathtaking panoramic views as it snakes along the border between Chile and Argentina. Hairpin turns and steep inclines challenge drivers, while stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks and deep valleys unfold before passengers.
Photo stops along the way allow visitors to capture the dramatic landscape and enjoy the rugged alpine environment.
The journey on Los Caracoles is as much an adventure as the final destination, providing an unforgettable experience for those seeking to explore the heart of the Andes.
Guided Tour of Inca Lagoon
The guided tour of Laguna del Inca, the centerpiece of the Portillo – Inca Lagoon excursion, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich Inca heritage.
During the 2-hour tour, guests will:
- Explore the serene, turquoise-hued lake, surrounded by the majestic Andes mountains
- Learn about the Inca’s reverence for the site, which they considered a sacred place
- Discover the fascinating history and cultural significance of the Laguna del Inca
- Marvel at the remarkable engineering feats of the Incas, visible in the site’s ruins
- Gain a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty and spiritual essence of the landscape
This immersive experience provides a unique opportunity to connect with the enduring legacy of the Inca civilization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Guests can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a picnic, but participants are welcome to supplement with their own provisions if desired. Bringing personal snacks and beverages is permitted.
Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?
The tour company does not offer any discounts for children or seniors on this particular tour. The price is a flat rate of €62.87 per person, regardless of age or group size.
Do I Need Any Special Equipment or Gear for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t require any special equipment or gear. Participants should wear comfortable hiking boots or shoes, bring layers for the changing weather, and carry a small backpack with personal items like sunscreen, snacks, and water.
How Many People Are Typically in a Tour Group?
Tour group sizes typically range from small, intimate groups of 10 or fewer participants to larger groups of up to 30 people. The exact size can vary depending on the tour operator and popularity of the excursion.
Are There Any Stops for Shopping or Local Artisans?
The tour doesn’t include any scheduled stops for shopping or browsing local artisans. The focus is on visiting natural attractions and providing a picnic lunch. There may be opportunities to purchase souvenirs at certain stops, but this isn’t a primary aspect of the tour.
The Sum Up
The "Portillo – Inca Lagoon Full Day" tour offers an immersive Andean experience, with highlights including the historic Chacabuco Monument and the scenic Los Caracoles road. Visitors can enjoy a guided visit to the stunning turquoise Laguna del Inca, complemented by a picnic lunch amidst the breathtaking natural surroundings. This tour promises a memorable adventure, with insights provided in Portuguese and Spanish by a knowledgeable guide.
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