Emerald Islands of Chiloé
 A comfortable immersion

Day by day itinerary: 3 d/ 2 n

INCLUDES: Expert bilingual guide (private), all transport round trip from Puerto Montt/Puerto Varas/airport,  2 nights lodging ( in lovely 3 star hotel overlooking ocean and in country home- great cultural immersion!), 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners, all activities, taxes
NOT INCLUDED: Alcohol, tips, insurance

DEGREE OF DIFFICULTY AND PHYSICAL CONDITIONING: Low.  Activities are determined by your interests and abilities.  Trip is catered to you- may include hiking or more sightseeing.
 

Day 1       The Emerald Island of Chiloé -
This tour begins with a private transfer (at 08:30) from the airport or your hotel in Puerto Montt or Puerto Varas for the two-hour journey (including a 30 minute ferry ride) to the emerald island of Chiloé Grande. Our first stop is Caulín, a beautiful bay for birdwatching and observing local life. In Caulín we will also sample the island’s fine oysters (beverages not included). We will then travel to the picturesque bayside city of Ancud. This area is steeped in history and was home to Spanish empire’s last stronghold in all of the Americas when the colonies were liberated. After having lunch in a local restaurant during which you will have a historical discussion with your guide, we will head south to the bustling Regional capital of Castro. There will be time to visit its stunning wooden Cathedral (one of 16 UNESCO World Heritage sites on the island) as well as crafts market and traditional palafito stilt homes. Lodging at the Hosteria Castro. Dinner option at the hotel or a restaurant on the plaza. (private transport, guide, lunch, dinner, activities, and lodging included).
 

DAY 2    East Coast -
There are two choices for today’s activities- decisions may be made the night prior together with your guide. Morning departure to the city of Dalcahue to cross over to the second largest island of the Archipelago, home to the oldest Church in Southern Chile (Achao) and stunning views over the emerald islands of the archipelago. Or, for the more adventurous, we can drive up the coast of Chiloe Grande on the dirt roads and visit small fishing villages where life follows a rhythm from a bygone era. Both options will pass through the city of Ancud in the evening en route to a night in the “campo” at a local family’s home. This offers a unique opportunity to get to know people from the island as well as have a wonderful night’s rest off the beaten track. (private transport, guide, lunch, dinner, activities, and lodging included).  
 

DAY 3    Goodbye Chiloé - 
After a relaxing breakfast, we’ll head out into the countryside to the rugged Pacific Coast. This is an area of deserted beaches, quiet farmlands and coastal forest, the rarely visited West coast is a hidden jewel of natural beauty and wildlife. Our destination will be the unique penguin colony of Puñihuíl, the only place in the world where Humbolt and Magallanic penguins nest side-by-side. We will tour the small island colonies by boat, a trip that often encounters many other types of marine life. Then our journey continues to the ferry crossing that will take us over to the mainland. Drop off will be in the afternoon at Tepual airport in Puerto Montt or at your hotel at approximately 17:00. (private transport, bilingual guide, breakfast and lunch included)