Today, your journey starts in a realm where natural beauty meets cultural richness, setting the stage for an adventure that promises to be nothing short of extraordinary.
Welcome to Santiago
Founded in 1541, the Chilean capital is a metropolis with 7 million inhabitants (40% of Chile’s total population). Flanked on one side by the Andes mountain range, and the Coastal range on the other, the city has a unique natural backdrop. Today, Chile's capital is a dynamic, modern city where colonial mansions sit among soaring skyscrapers, folk art becomes fashion, and Latin and European cultures intertwine. After living in the shadow of other great South American cities such as Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires, the real boom came a few years ago in celebration of Chile's bicentennial. Santiago invested a small fortune into the construction of cultural centres, museums, and parks, across the city. Vitacura and Las Condes bloomed with stylish new art galleries, and the somewhat run-down areas of Barrio Brasil, Barrio Italia, and Barrio Lastarria were given a thorough makeover and transformed into a vibrant public arts district, a laid-back and alternative nightlife hub, and a chic gastro area respectively.
The spacious luxury rooms in Renaissance Santiago hotel offer elegant decor, soft linens, and inspiring views for an extraordinary experience. Guests can visit SkyBar Cofa, the tapas and cocktail bar, to enjoy stunning views of the Andes Mountains. The state-of-the-art gym is equipped with cardiovascular machines, weights, an outdoor pool, and a sauna. With six meeting rooms in Vitacura Santiago and a striking outdoor terrace, the hotel serves as a perfect venue for both social and corporate events. To complement a visit to Vitacura, Chile, an unparalleled stay awaits guests at one of Santiago de Chile's most exclusive hotels, the Renaissance Santiago Hotel, where the staff are ready to help create unique experiences.
Santiago de Chile is fast becoming the place to be. A platform for multi-national companies and an entrepreneurial spirit make it the ideal business hub in South America. Its tranquillity, stability, green areas, and cleanliness are all factors that surprise the visitor. The New York Times named it South America’s top destination just a few years ago, and a more recent article in Saveur magazine labelled it the continent’s new hot culinary capital. The quality of life, cultural and culinary offerings make it a highly desirable city.
The uptown areas of the city are famed for their avant-garde architecture and laid-back pace of life, but it is the centre of the city that is the real ‘heart’ of the city. This administrative centre is home to the Government Palace (La Moneda), the splendid Plaza de Armas square, its cathedral, and countless other historical landmarks, while pedestrian boulevards lead to numerous museums and leafy plazas. Neighbourhoods such as Providencia, Bellavista, Las Condes and Vitacura combine commercial and culinary highlights, state-of-the-art architecture, and night life. The tallest building in South America – designed by Cesar Pelli – looms over the city, visible from practically everywhere, and even offers a viewing platform that is a must on a clear day. Santiago’s parks are well worth a visit. The Parque Metropolitano, better known as Cerro San Cristóbal, is another omnipresent feature of the city, and visitors can walk or cycle up its leafy roads, or perhaps choose to take the rickety funicular to the top. The Parque Bicentenario, inaugurated for Chile’s bicentennial in 2010, and the beautiful Parque Forestal, and of course Cerro Santa Lucía, where the city was founded in 1541, are other green attractions.
This exploration of the city aims to provide a panoramic view of the city from different vantage points, calling briefly at historical, commercial, and residential icons of the city along the way. It serves as the perfect introduction to the city.
Return to the hotel at the end of the tour.
Santiago de Chile has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild and humid winters, and warm and dry summers. During winter, which lasts from June to August, temperatures typically range between 3 °C (37 °F) and 15 °C (59 °F), with some rainfall. Days can be cloudy and cool, especially in the morning and evening. In contrast, during summer, from December to February, temperatures average around 30 °C (86 °F), with maximums that can exceed 35 °C (95 °F). Days are sunny and dry, with scarce rainfall.
Spring and autumn in Santiago are transitional seasons, with moderate temperatures and changing weather conditions. During spring (September to November), days become warmer, with temperatures ranging from 15 °C (59 °F) to 25 °C (77 °F), and there is a gradual increase in sunlight. Autumn (March to May) brings a decrease in temperatures, with maximums around 20 °C (68 °F), and the autumn colors beautify the parks and landscapes of the city.
It is important to note that Santiago is located in a valley surrounded by mountains, which can create phenomena known as thermal inversion. This means that in winter, especially in the mornings, there may be fog and a feeling of colder temperatures compared to higher areas of the city. Additionally, air pollution can be a factor that affects air quality at certain times of the year.
Overall, Santiago de Chile offers a pleasant and temperate climate for much of the year, making it an attractive destination to visit and explore its historical, cultural, and natural charms.
Half day Panoramic tour around Santiago
After your breakfast you will have a transfer to Santiago airport for your flight to Temuco. At your arrival your andBeyond representative will be waiting you for your transfer to the Lodge. On your day of arrival, in the afternoon, an activity will be provided by the hotel, giving you your first taste of the area.
Generally considered as the adventure capital of Chile, the area around Pucón offers a myriad of outdoor activities such as rafting, hiking, skiing, kayaking, and fly-fishing. There is however far much more to this multi-faceted destination. Among its many natural highlights, there are wonderful thermal springs and gorgeous national parks. Volcanoes, mountains, and lakes create one of the most beautiful natural sites Chile has to offer.
During your stay, you will have several full days of activities arranged by the hotel.
The area is a traveller’s dream when it comes to adventures and choice of activities. The many surrounding natural parks, the majestic volcano Villarrica with its unbelievable views, water sports, horseback riding, and trekking in the foothills of the Andes, are a vital part of the experience at Vira Vira. You are encouraged to explore a new adventure or experience every day, with the aim of understanding the mystic ambience of these ancient Mapuche territories. The guides at Vira Vira are passionate about their work, and about the excursions on offer. With some thirty options available, choosing what to do may seem daunting. That is where the role of your hosts and guides become of paramount importance. Each day they will make a series of options available, allowing you to pick and choose according to your personal preferences, their level of difficulty, or simply a natural or cultural focus.
Activities are centred on nature and adventure, with treks and horseback rides of various durations. There are also explorations of the nearby Villarrica volcano, visiting its labyrinth of tunnels, or even reaching the summit. There are also several cultural activities, aimed at revealing the secrets of the region. Vira Vira also offers some wonderful experiences at the hotel itself such as cooking, cheese-making, and even spending a day in the organic garden. There are also more relaxing activities. What better than sitting in a hot pool of thermal spring water, a glass of red wine in hand, and looking out across a backdrop of mountains, forests, and volcanoes?
Of course, cuisine plays an important role in the Vira Vira experience. Their menu veers away from the typical international offerings by blending Chilean and ancient indigenous recipes, all created with the freshest seasonal ingredients. Each day the chef prepares a selection of freshly prepared courses, carefully composed and lovingly arranged and paired with the perfect wine for each dish.
andBeyond Vira Vira Lodge:
Get ready for a warm welcome from our dedicated staff as soon as you step foot at andBeyond Vira Vira. Along with that, prepare to have an enlightening conversation with your guide who will present you with an array of exciting excursions to choose from during your stay.
At Vira Vira, we go above and beyond to ensure you receive exceptional attention and care.
With numerous captivating excursions and a wide range of activities available, your experience with us will be nothing short of extraordininary:
Trekking:
The region surrounding thelodge offers a vast selectionof hiking/trekking excursions,predominantly withinHuerquehue National Parkand Villarrica National Park.In the company of one of ourexperienced guides, explorethese parks which showcaseforests, shimmering lakes,waterfalls, hot springs andthe breathtaking terrain ofsnow-capped volcanoes.
Ascension of Villarrica Volcano:
Measuring an impressive 2847 m(9341 ft), the Villarrica Volcan ofeatures the perfect cone shapewith an open lava pool craterat the top. From the summit,view a textured landscape ofmountains, volcanoes andcountless lakes. Mountainboots, walking poles, ice axe,crampons, helmet and trekkingbackpack will be provided.
Mountain Biking:
Explore the rugged landscapesof Villarrica National Park, cyclearound the tranquil VillarricaLake, and climb craggy craters atthe foot of the Villarrica Volcanoon your bike. Choose betweeneasy going, non-technicaloff-road biking and smoothflowing single track or, fortechnically skilled riders,extreme downhill adventures.
Bird Watching:
Exciting excursions allow birdersto visit different habitats, suchas mountains, lakes, rivers andforests to search high and lowfor iconic species in the area.At times, bird calls might leadyou to sightings of the giantmagellanic woodpecker, ringedkingfisher, chucao tapaculo,snowy egret, black-crownednight heron, plumbeous railand Andean condor, to namea few.
A walk around the lodge estate is also a must forkeen birders.
Horsebak Riding:
After a short, scenic 4x4 drivefrom the lodge, arrive at HuepilMalal, a horse-riding centrebordering the Cañi NaturalReserve.
Here, you will meetan authentic Chilean huaso(cowboy). His horses are typicalChilean breeds with nameslike Merken, Calafate or Canela.
You will be guided on a scenic tour through open prairiesand forests. This excursion is for all abilities, from thosewho just wish to meander toadvanced riders.
White-Water Rafting:
Hold on tight as you race over rapids on a thrilling white-water rafting adventure. Before setting off, there will be a safety briefing and equipment testing. This experience is ideal for both beginners and experienced paddlers. The Trancura River offers Class 3 and 4 rapids, zigzagging through valleys and gullies. You'll encounter various runs and rapids, including the Junction, the Lioness, the Wall, and the Footbridge.
Floating Raft:
Indulge in a scenic river excursion, gliding along clear waters towards Villarrica Lake. This experience is best enjoyed on the afternoon of your arrival, as it requires minimal physical effort and begins on the beautiful Liucura River right in front of the lodge. Immerse yourself in nature as you witness pristine landscapes of lush rolling mountains and native forests, observing water birds and the agile movements of trout and salmon in the river below. Conclude the experience with a delightful picnic snack before returning to the lodge.
Catch-and-Release Fishing:
Spend a day immersed in the spectacular surroundings of &Beyond Vira Vira, accompanied only by the soothing sounds of a streaming river or lapping lake. Enjoy fly-fishing or spinner fishing, where all the necessary equipment is provided. Cast your line in front of your villa to catch rainbow trout, brown trout, or Chinook salmon, or venture out in a boat for a wider fishing experience. Our knowledgeable guide will direct you to the best spots for river and lake fishing, offering expert tips along the way.
Stand-Up Paddle:
Have a fantastic day splashing in the pristine waters around &Beyond Vira Vira. Begin at the lodge and paddle down the Liucura River, taking in the awe-inspiring natural surroundings of volcanoes, vibrant birds soaring through the air, and lush forests. Additionally, we can arrange stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Tinquilco for a refreshing change of scenery.
Kayaking:
Located at Lake Tinquilco in Huerquehue National Park, choose between a kayak or a canoe and embark on an hour-long adventure around the lake. Surrounded by mountains and beautiful forests, reach the opposite shore and take a walk along a trail to discover cascading waterfalls. For more adventurous and experienced paddlers, there are numerous options in the Pucón and Villarrica area to challenge their skills.
Mapuche Ruka and Weaving Tours:
Immerse yourself in another culture with a fascinating visit to Doña Rosario's ruka (house) in the local Mapuche community. Experience the embrace of traditional ways as you observe her roasting organic wheat using age-old methods and savor her delicious home-cooked dishes. Engage in a game of Palin, a traditional Mapuche stick and ball game that originated in southern Chile. Guests also have the opportunity to meet Sandra Rojos, visit her factory, and witness her skillfully working the loom.
Community Visit:
Explore the charming town of Curarrehue and visit a Mapuche weaver to view her traditional skills and techniques as she works with the loom. Afterwards, continue up into the Andes to the Quillelhue Lagoon, located at the foot of Lanin Volcano. Here, you will have the opportunity to see the majestic Araucaria trees (known as monkey puzzle trees), followed by lunch at a traditional Mapuche ruka (house). During your visit, learn about their unique ways of life firsthand.
Cheese Factory Tour:
Located on the &Beyond Vira Vira property is a cheese factory (quesería). Local cheese maker, Marisol Martinez, is renowned for her wholesome, authentic, and flavorful cheeses for the exclusive delight of our guests. The ultimate foodie delight, enjoy a tour of this delicious quesería and gain insight into the specific ways different cheeses, including Parmesan, Gruyère, Blue cheese, and Camembert, are produced.
Skiing & Snowboarding:
Exciting adventures await with our snowboarding and skiing activities down the active Villarrica Volcano. A variety of slopes are on offer, from beginner to more advanced ski runs. In a spectacular environment of volcanic peaks and shimmering lakes, the flowing lava has created an incredible terrain of natural half pipes, cornices, and wind lips.
Snowshoeing:
Embark on a snowshoe trekking expedition through puffy snow as you carve trails around Villarrica National Park. This is an excellent way to explore untouched landscapes, with absolute silence dominating the vast expanse surrounding you. The Andes are a magical winter space between June and September, and snowshoeing is an exceptional experience created for all levels of fitness. This exciting adventure begins and ends with steaming mugs of hot chocolate.
Snowmobiling:
Skiing on the active Villarrica Volcano is spectacular, but racing on a snowmobile becomes a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Together with your driver/guide, circle the volcano, finding a virgin track on every run. This activity is designed for adventure lovers, and as the snowmobiles function similarly to motorbikes, you will have to hang on and lean in according to your driver's instructions.
Wellness Treatments:
Sink into serenity in beautifully decorated massage rooms tucked away within a small forest of native trees. The harmonic sounds of endemic birds around will ensure you connect with nature and unwind into a state of deep relaxation. We invite you to treat yourself to a personalized massage.
Our receptionists will be happy to arrange a booking at your preferred time. Available at an additional cost.
Yoga:
Balance your chakras and enjoy yoga sessions that harmonize body, mind, and spirit. Find your inner peace and enjoy the silence, nature, and serenity the area has to offer. The yoga instructor will come by special arrangement from Pucón, 10 km (6 mi.) away, and sessions will take place at the lodge. Please notify us if you are interested in this activity.
Organic Vegetable Garden Tour:
Discover the flourishing organic vegetable garden and relish sublime farm-to-table dining with fresh produce and ingredients. Walk around the colorful organic vegetable garden with a chef and pick and choose fresh produce for your next meal.
Forest Therapy:
Forest Therapy, or Shinrin Yoku, is the soulful practice of being in nature, which allows us to awaken our senses and reconnect with others, our natural surroundings, and ourselves. Guided by Giovanna Raineri Blanco, the session follows a standard series of "invitations" (opportunities) that bring about all elements of self-discovery.
After breakfast, you will have a private transfer to Temuco Airport, to take your flight to Santiago Airport to board your 3-hour flight to Punta Arenas, the gateway to Chilean Patagonia. Upon arrival to Punta Arenas your local representative will meet you and accompany you on the 5-hour journey by road to the lodge. A snack will be provided enroute and you will stop for stunning photo opportunities, including flamboyant flamingos and other birds strutting along the Patagonian Steppes.
You will head to the awe-inspiring beauty of Patagonia. Over 500 years after the arrival of the first European seafarers in Patagonia, the words to describe it are the same: exotic, faraway, vast, infinitely beautiful, wild, and indomitable. Situated in the heart of the National Park, the Torres del Paine Mountains are one of the main attractions of the region and an icon of Chilean Patagonia. The immensity of the ice floes, the majesty of the mountains and the expanse of the lakes are a constant source of wonderment. The Torres del Paine National Park’s habitat blends together a wide array of ecosystems, making it a treasure for Chilean wildlife.
From here you will embark on a drive to Puerto Natales. You will spend the night at the magnificent hotel, The Singular Patagonia. Restored and resurrected by fourth generation family members, of the original pioneers who settled the area and built the sheep farming industry more than 100 years ago, The Singular Patagonia pays homage to the building’s and founders’ rich historical importance in the development of the local culture, economy and heritage. Witness century-old machinery imported from England at the turn of the 20th Century; the hotel’s restored wood dock hovering over the Fjord of Last Hope leading out to the Pacific from which ships took wool to markets all over the world; and the local customs and traditions embraced by memorabilia throughout the property.
Dinner at the hotel
You will have a full day to enjoy the excursions available at The Singular Patagonia, such as:
Full Day Trekking at Sierra Baguales:
You will head out towards the mystical distant location called the Last Hope (Última Esperanza) and take in the gorgeous surroundings on your way to Cerro Guido Ranch, where you will learn about the activities in the zone. From there you will continue toward Sierra Baguales, a mountain chain that gets its name from the wild horses that used to roam there and where ancient fossils can still be found. This place is a privileged sanctuary. Upon reaching the 'Las Cumbres Ranch', you will eat a very special lunch in the midst of this breath-taking landscape.
Full Day Navigating around the Patagonian Fjords Serrano and Balmaceda Glaciers & Lunch at Estancia:
You will set sail from the hotel towards the Bernardo O’Higgins National Park. You will see the Balmaceda Glacier en route and then land at Port Toro, from where you will take a 45-minute walk to the Serrano Glacier. Upon returning to the boat, you will head towards the La Peninsula Ranch where a typical Patagonian lunch will be awaiting you. In the afternoon, you can go horseback riding or trekking along the marvellous paths in the area or just rest and relax at the manor home and visit the attractions there.
Half Day Kayaking at Eberhard Fjord to Villa Luisa:
You will take a van to the Eberhard Fjord and then kayak through different historical sites such as Port Prat, founded in 1899; Krugger Island, known as the “Island of the Dead,” where early colonists were buried; and 'Consuelo Ranch', where the colonization of Last Hope began and where Captain Eberhard built his manor home in 1895. You will be able to watch different types of birds during the excursion, such as condors and black-necked swans.
Full Day Excursion Discovering Torres Del Paine National Park:
Passing through several lookouts with breath-taking views of the Paine Massif. You will see fauna typical of this area: ñandús, or American ostriches, foxes and guanacos; and visit lakes such as the Nordenskjold, Sarmiento, Pehoé and Grey. You will take a short walk to the Big Falls (Salto Grande) where you can see the Horns ('los Cuernos'). At Grey Lake beach, you will have the chance to watch icebergs calving from the glacier.
Excursion days provided by The Singular Patagonia
Welcome to El Calafate
El Calafate is a small, welcoming town in southern Argentina, known for its close proximity to stunning natural features like glaciers and lakes. It's the go-to spot for anyone wanting to visit the famous Perito Moreno Glacier. The town itself is cozy and full of local charm, with shops selling handmade crafts and restaurants offering delicious local food.
Just a short drive from the town center, you'll find nature reserves full of birds and the beautiful backdrop of the Andes Mountains. Whether you're an adventure seeker or someone who just wants to enjoy the scenery, El Calafate has something for everyone. It's a gateway to some of Argentina's most beautiful landscapes.
Eolo Patagonia
Nestled in the heart of Patagonia, Eolo offers an unparalleled dualism—proximity to iconic southern landmarks like the Andes Mountains, lakes, and glaciers, all while enveloped in the tranquility of the expansive steppe. Located on a 10,000-acre estancia, this retreat is both accessible and exclusive, a hidden gem in El Calafate's scenic landscape.
Eolo beckons with two unique experiences that encapsulate the essence of Patagonian life. For the adventurous spirit, the hotel serves as a gateway to the great outdoors—choose between trekking, horseback riding, mountain biking, or bird-watching to immerse yourself in the untouched beauty that surrounds you.
Alternatively, for those seeking solace and reflection, EOLO invites you to embrace the serenity of the land without ever leaving its comfort. Whether you're observing the shifting hues of dawn and dusk, watching the moon ascend into the sky, or simply losing yourself in the boundless horizon, every vantage point within the hotel—a view from your bed, the dining area, or any of the thoughtfully designed common spaces—echoes the pure simplicity of the world beyond its doors.
At Eolo Patagonia, a myriad of activities await:
Horseback Rides:
Immerse yourself in the life of a Patagonian gaucho while enjoying stunning vistas. There are two primary excursions: a climb up the slopes of Cerro Frías and a ride to the lake frequented by flamingos.
Trekking:
Around Eolo, you have the flexibility to embark on walks ranging from leisurely to challenging, either independently or accompanied by an Eolo guide. Classic choices include: climbing to observation points on Cerro Frías, a stroll to the lake frequented by flamingos, and an exploration of local flora and fauna.
Perito Moreno Glacier Visit:
The highlight of the region, a trip to Perito Moreno Glacier is not to be missed. With 4 km of trails, the walkways provide multiple vantage points for admiring the glacier from varying elevations.
Mini Trekking:
This activity serves as an excellent add-on to the walkway visit. It features a brief boat sail, offering a close-up view of the glacier, followed by a two-hour walk on the glacier's surface. Wearing crampons and led by mountain guides, you will enjoy an unparalleled and unforgettable experience.
Big Ice:
Starting from the same point as the Mini Trekking, this option offers a deeper journey into the heart of the glacier. The excursion includes a two-hour trek through the Andean forest, followed by a four-hour walk on the glacier itself. This is the perfect choice for those seeking a more adventurous experience.
Blue Safari:
Conducted in the same vicinity as the Mini Trekking and Big Ice adventures, this excursion begins with a boat sail in front of the glacier. Passengers then disembark for a rare opportunity to make contact with the ice, without the need for crampons. The journey continues along the lake's shore, traversing a landscape of sand, stones, and gentle inclines.
Kayak Experience:
The outing starts from a beach close to the walkways and features a two-hour kayaking session in front of the Perito Moreno Glacier. No prior kayaking experience is necessary.
South Glacier - Pioneers Option:
This excursion starts with a drive to Nibepo Aike, one of the area's original ranches. Here, you will witness traditional sheep shearing and gaucho activities. A lunch featuring classic Patagonian lamb and beef cuts follows. Post-lunch, a boat ride on the Rico arm of Lake Argentino takes you to Playa de las Monedas for a relaxed walk to an observation point offering views of the Perito Moreno Glacier. The journey concludes with a visit to the glacier's walkways.
South Glacier - Adventure Option:
Your journey begins with a drive to the embarkation point, followed by a sail on the southern arm of Lake Argentino. You will disembark for a medium-to-high difficulty hike to Lake Frías. The adventure continues with a zodiac crossing of the lake, leading to a second trek through a glacial valley. This path, weaving through mountains and forests, offers spectacular views of the Frías, Dickson, Cubo, and Grande glaciers.
All Glaciers Boat Trip:
Setting sail from Punta Bandera port, just thirty minutes from Eolo, you will navigate Lake Argentino to explore multiple glaciers within the National Park, such as Upsala and Spegazzini. Lunch is served at a refuge located opposite the Spegazzini glacier, where you will disembark.
Mayo Spirit Trek and Boat Trip:
This excursion takes you across the Canal de los Témpanos, offering front-row views of the Perito Moreno Glacier. Two landings are included: one at Bahía Toro and another at Seno Mayo. From these points, you will walk to viewpoints for magnificent sights of the hanging glaciers on Cerro Mayo and Cerro Negro. You have the option to either return to Punta Bandera Port by boat or disembark to visit the walkways facing Perito Moreno, before making your land-based return to the hotel.
Full Day at El Chaltén:
A three-hour drive from Eolo transports you through the expansive Patagonian steppe to El Chaltén, a haven for nature enthusiasts. Situated at the base of the iconic Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre, the town offers a range of hiking options catering to various skill levels.
Fly Fishing:
Embark on an angling adventure with a specialised guide, complete with all necessary equipment. Four prime fishing zones are available: Lago Argentino area, Lake Roca area, Lake Rico area, and Rivers Santa Cruz and Pelque area. The local waters are teeming with a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout, lake trout (bocón), brown trout, brook trout, perch, and chinook salmon.
Ice Museum:
The museum is designed to heighten awareness and impart a message of conservation for this unique natural landscape.
Throughout these past 9 days, we have ventured into the depths of extraordinary destinations, immersing ourselves in their rich cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and awe-inspiring wonders. From the vibrant streets of bustling cities to the serene tranquility of pristine natural wonders, we have traversed the spectrum of human and natural beauty.
Today, you will be taking a flight back to Santiago for you to take your international flight and go back home.
As you return to your everyday lives, we hope that you carry with you the spirit of exploration and a renewed appreciation for the world around us. May the experiences and connections you have made during this journey serve as a constant reminder of the endless possibilities that await you.
Remember, the end of one journey marks the beginning of countless others. As you continue to wander and explore, know that our team is here, ready to assist you in creating more extraordinary adventures filled with unforgettable moments.
Safe travels, and may your journeys be filled with joy, wonder, and endless possibilities.
