Chile: A Family Adventure

Welcome to Santiago, Chile’s cosmopolitan capital set against the breathtaking backdrop of the snow-capped Andean peaks, where rich traditions of art, food and wine make this city one of the continent’s most sophisticated and exciting. Receive a warm A&K reception and transfer privately to your luxury accommodation with the afternoon at leisure.

The Singular Santiago

This morning, step out on a walking tour, starting with a visit to the colonial centre including the towering Government Palace. Soak up the mood of the city at your own pace as you pass the old Congress and stroll through the Plaza de Armas with its impressive historic buildings. Later, jump aboard the funicular railway for a ride up to the top of San Cristobal Hill where the panoramic city and mountain views are dazzling.

This afternoon choose how you wish to explore. Discover a different side of the city on a guided graffiti tour, admiring vibrant street art in a selection of barrios and hear what inspires it. Or, set off on a guided bike tour, pedalling through the streets of Santiago's most exclusive neighbourhoods, along the Mapocho River, through parks and gardens and past the city’s most impressive architectural highlights.

Tonight you’ll be invited into a local home for a hearty family meal with delicious regional wines and stimulating conversation.

The Singular Santiago | Meals: BD

Fly south to Temuco, gateway to the Chilean Lake District, and be driven to Pucón, renowned for its soothing hot springs and breathtaking views of Villarrica Volcano. Arrive at Vira Vira, your beautiful lodge located idyllically on an organic farm on the Liucura River. The five-bedroom hacienda is yours to enjoy exclusively. Full of local artwork, textiles and unique furniture there is a private hot tub, a pretty garden terrace and a veranda framing magnificent views.

Hacienda Vira Vira| Meals: BLD

The next three days are spent soaking up the natural beauty of this pristine region with an incredible range of activities on offer. Tailor your stay by land, air and water to whatever your family’s interests may be.

Hike through local national parks discovering glaciers, mountains, volcanoes, forests and lakes on a range of trails. Cycle your way along riverside trails or get the adrenalin pumping on a thrilling mountain bike adventure. Unleash your inner huaso (cowboy) on an exhilarating horse ride. Take to the skies for a bird’s-eye view of snow-capped, forested mountains, soaring over the active crater of Villarrica on a scenic helicopter flight. Make waves on the local lakes and rivers with boating, stand-up paddle-boarding and white-water rafting. Slow down and cast your line into the crystal-clear waters hoping to hook a trout or salmon. For something more cultural, visit a local Mapuche community, discover traditional weaving techniques, explore a tradition ruka (house) and learn about their traditions which are deeply connected to the environment. Also make time for a tour of the in-house cheese factory to learn how the different varieties are made, and of course sample the produce.

No matter your daily activity, each night you return to the home comforts of your exclusive hacienda and some exceptional farm-to-table cuisine.

Hacienda Vira Vira | Meals: BLD

Leave the lush Lake District behind and fly north to the arid and dramatic Atacama Desert, the driest in the world. Take in the changing landscapes as you drive to your base in the atmospheric oasis town of San Pedro de Atacama, with its laidback charm, adobe buildings and bohemian vibe.

Explora Atacama Lodge | Meals: BD

The Atacama Desert is perfect for those who love nature, adventure and extraordinary landscapes, and has something for all tastes and abilities. The rugged landscapes of salt flats, sandy deserts, rocky peaks and active volcanoes are jaw-dropping and you’ll have three days here exploring with expert guides by your side.

Your exact programme will be tailored specifically to the interests of you and your family. Choose to take it easy or challenge yourself with something more demanding. Discover steaming geysers, indigenous villages, historic ruins, high altitude lakes and sharply eroded mountains on a variety of outdoor adventures from 4WD tours, walks and trekking, horse and bike riding. Spend time at the otherworldly Moon Valley; spot flamingos at the Salar de Atacama salt flats; or be mesmerised by the geysers at El Tatio. Nightfall brings another opportunity for adventure and the ultimate stargazing experience. The Atacama has one of the clearest night skies on Earth and it’s easy to see why several top-level observatories have set up home here.

Explora Atacama Lodge | Meals: BLD

Head south once more as you leave the Atacama and fly to Santiago to connect with your onward international flight.

Meals: B