travelerstwo2

We are a physically-fit mid-60s couple traveling to Chile in mid- February. This is our first visit. We will be based in Santiago for the first eight days and will have day trips arranged for several wine areas. We would like suggestions for other places to see...Atacama Desert, Lake District , Tierra del Fuego, etc.- Also advice on traveling from place to place - fly or public transportation ? Leaving Santiago second week in March to return to the U.S. Thank you.

mlgb

8 Days in Santiago sounds like too much to see for me..

I would include a side trip to Valparaiso (you can probably stop at wineries along the way).

It may be too late to find lodging to at Torres del Paine, but that would be my second choice...fly to Punta Arenas or Puerto Natales.

Some people do day trip from PN or Rio Serrano to TdP, especially if not hiking.

crellston

We never made it all ten way down to the far south but that would be high on my list for a return trip. We did however travel down from the north to Pucon which is a delightful place, very scenic and overlooked by the gigantic active volcano Villarica. Some great hiking, biking and skiing.

Valparaiso is a fascinating town and we did some horse riding nearby at the giant sand dunes near Vina Del Mar.

San Pedro de Atacama is a pleasant if expensive town with a lot to see nearby, salt flats, geysers etc. The coastal city of Iquique is the natural jumpin* off palc3 for San Pedro and is quite pleasant in itself.

Huentetu

The last fortnight of February will be crowded everywhere as locals prefer it for their summer holidays. You will need to book everything: lodging, flights. Once March arrives things will ease up as schools open. Flights get more expensive as you approach the day you want, so decide and book soon.

For San Pedro de Atacama you need a flight to Calama. For Torres del Paine a flight to Punta Arenas. There are seasonal flights to Puerto Natales but not every day and chances of finding seats at this late date is unlikely. The lake district can be accessed by flight (Temuco or Puerto Montt depending on your destination) or overnight bus. Choose one of the top 2 levels of service if going by bus.

travelerstwo2

Many thanks for the helpful suggestions and advice.

HappyTrvlr

We enjoyed Puerto Varas and the Lake Region. It has a strong German influence.