Luxury Chile Holidays
Chile extends 2,650 miles and has nearly as many volcanoes – more than 2,000 dot this unique landscape, though most are squeezed into 100 miles between the Andes and the Pacific.
As an adventure destination, Chile is perhaps best known for Torres del Paine. This national park is a magnificent landscape of glaciers, lakes and jagged peaks. It’s prime territory for hiking and immersing yourself in round-the-clock nature at exclusive mountain lodges. We also love Chile for the Mars-like surfaces found in the Atacama Desert, the cultural mysteries of Easter Island, the beautiful city of Valparaiso and – of course – the remarkable winelands in the Colchagua Valley.
Chile is a truly idyllic destination for adventure, wellness and relaxation. It's one of the most beautiful places in South America and is home to exciting wildlife like guanaco, puma, Magellanic penguin, Chilean flamingo and South Andean deer – all of which can be seen with the help of expert local guides and a bit of patience. Have us plan your unforgettable sightseeing adventure through Chile’s miraculous landscapes.
- Home of the incomparable Torres del Paine National Park.
- Varied landscapes from otherworldly deserts to mysterious islands.
- Lively, culture-rich cities including Valparaiso and Cusco.
- Unique wildlife including penguins, guanaco and puma.
- Exclusive accommodations for adventure and wellness.
The Atacama Desert has often been compared to the surface of Mars – and indeed this location has been used for film shoots and testing NASA exploration equipment alike. Witness remarkable life in an unexpected oasis.
See the famous 887 Moai heads and learn about the Rapa Nui civilization, which persists today after the island was settled by Polynesians after 700 AD. It’s a fascinating island of culture and beauty.
Chile’s Lake District is far more dramatic than its English namesake. Here, the mountain lakes are surrounded by dense forests and magnificent volcanoes. This is one of our favourite places to hike and ski.
Southern Patagonia is where you’ll find the iconic Parque Nacional Torres del Paine, with its stunningly blue lakes, dramatic jagged peaks and captivating wildlife. This is a paradise for hikers and photographers.
Elegant architecture, exciting street performances and a world-class dining scene make Santiago a must-see. Kick off your Chilean adventure with a few nights in this lively capital to lend cultural context to the rest of your visit.
Valparaiso lies between the ocean and the mountains. Its unique topography means that many of its buildings are on steep slopes, and a Victorian-era funicular still helps people move around the city today.
At the heart of Chilean wine country is the Colchagua Valley. Protected on all sides by mountains, the location is perfect for planting vineyards and orchards that flourish in the fertile soil.
"The trip gave us many memorable experiences including landing on Cape Horn, a wild but friendly encounter with a Puma and hiking among giant cacti in the Atacama desert. This was our second trip to S America with Journeysmiths and both have been really great."
From the wilds of the arid Atacama and the mighty peaks of Torres del Paine, to the vibrant culture and ornate architecture of Santiago, there’s a huge variety of incredible landscapes squeezed into this long, narrow country. We’ve created a list of our favourite activities to give you an idea of what you can expect from a trip to Chile.From the wilds of the arid Atacama and the mighty peaks of Torres del Paine, to the vibrant culture and ornate architecture of Santiago, there’s a huge variety of incredible landscapes squeezed into this long, narrow country.
We’ve created a list of our favourite activities to give you an idea of what you can expect from a trip to Chile.
Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the lodge, hop into the helicopter and, after a short flight, land in the Patagonian peaks, an alpine skiing paradise. Dazzling blue skies, untouched blankets of snow and moody grey peaks in every direction, it feels as if you’re the only people to have ever set foot here.
The Patagonian backcountry is wild and adventurous, and experienced skiers can certainly make the most of this terrain, adrenalin pumping as you tackle steep couloirs, low-angle glacier runs and open bowls. We work with expert guides who can tailor the experience so that all skiers can enjoy this seemingly endless snowy landscape.
Sat atop a boulder, ears upright and their wide eyes surveying the mountains, forests and lakes of Torres del Paine, the puma is Patagonia’s most fierce predator. Solitary and secretive, it’s a big cat that you’re only likely to see with the guidance of someone who knows these animals and the habitat they roam intimately.
Spend the day walking through this beautiful park alongside an expert guide who will help you track these elusive creatures. Your efforts are rewarded when you spot the distinct pink nose and white mouth of the puma, prowling through the rocky terrain, kept warm by a coat of thick, caramel coloured fur.
A relaxing day exploring Chilean wine country - what could be better? Surrounded by dominating, snow-capped mountains, the green winelands of the Maipo Valley are a joy to visit. This area is famed for its red wines, in particular its Cabernet Sauvignon, with this variety of grape flourishing here thanks to the generally warm climate.
Visit family-owned wineries, taking tours of the vineyards and the wine cellars, with an informative guide who will help you learn more about the area and its wines. For those looking for something even more in-depth, try your hand at making your own wine. Of course, you’ll stop along the way for tastings and a delicious gourmet lunch.
Towering granite peaks and calm, azure blue lakes, the Torres del Paine National Park is the epitome of wilderness. When you first step foot here, you feel as though you’ve found yourself in another land entirely. You’ll have seen countless images online, but witnessing the sheer scale of the peaks firsthand is overwhelming and nothing can prepare you for the moment when you see them with your own eyes.
Moderately fit hikers can spend just a day here, or, if you want to see lesser known areas of the park that are accessible only to certified guides, you can spend a few days hiking through the forest and stopping to stay in the refugios along the way.
There’s something about the night sky that mesmerises us humans, and has done for thousands of years. When you look upward at the deep, dark, inky sky, unfathomable in size and alive with the glow of thousands of stars, your connection with the natural world is sparked immediately. It’s a powerful and magical sight.
Free from light pollution, clear and dry, the Atacama Desert offers the very best conditions for stargazing. After the sun has gone down, join an expert astronomist who will unravel the mysteries of the exquisitely beautiful, awe-inspiring Chilean skies.
If you consider yourself a thrill-seeker then this is for you! The Rio Futaleufu, meaning big water in the local Mapuche language, is considered one of the most challenging, exciting and exhilarating rivers. The strength of this mighty river is clear to see in its fast moving waters that rush through the Chilean Andes mountains.
Hop into your raft and take on the rapids, the power of the water bouncing you repeatedly in the air and landing you down in the swirling, foamy river.
Easter Island, just 63 square miles, is a small and mysterious island that sits isolated in the middle of the vast Pacific Ocean. Dotted on the side of an extinct volcano are over 1043 maoi, huge statues made from volcanic rock that feature large, prominent facial features. Standing at an average of 13 feet tall, some with bodies some without, the statues are an overwhelming and fascinating sight to behold. Various theories exist as to why they were built, but nothing is certain - it’s something for you to ponder as you stand beneath these gigantic sculptures.
You can visit the Rano Raraku quarry which provided the stone for the iconic maoi sculptures. Some 1043 statues have been left here, complete to varying degrees, depicting history right before your eyes. This island is a must-see if you’re visiting Chile.
With over 140 different bird species that either nest or migrate here, Lauca National Park is the best destination in Chile if you’re a keen bird watcher. The park sits in the very north of the country amongst the Andean mountains and is characterised by vast, sweeping lakes and snow-topped, conical volcanoes. If you’re an avid bird enthusiast, coveted sightings include the Andean goose, Chilean flamingo and the Andean condor.
Hop on a bicycle and explore the Chilean capital of Santiago. On this private tour you’ll be joined by a local, English-speaking guide who will detail both the city’s history and its modern day culture as you glide freely from one street to another. There’s a lot to see in this city, from the ornate architecture of the Metropolitan Cathedral to the busy La Vega Central Market, where you can enjoy a slice of local life.
Riding through the Atacama on horseback is one of Chile’s most exhilarating adventures. This is the Earth’s driest desert, an arid land of sand and salt flats that feels entirely other-worldly. On horseback you can explore with a sense of freedom and genuine connection to nature and the planet that’s simply not possible in a vehicle. Take to the saddle and roam the dirt paths, canyons and dunes of the Atacama. Accompanied only by the rhythm of your horse’s hooves and without another soul in sight, you’ll feel as though you have this entire desert to yourselves.
The Alto Atacama Desert Lodge and Spa is the product of an incredible design vision; local Chilean architects and designers came together to create a breathtaking hotel offering the greatest luxury to its guests whilst blending seamlessly into the desert landscape.
Explora Rapa Nui Hotel is the perfect base from which to discover the secrets and exquisite charm of remote Easter Island. This hotel aims to link man to the mysteries of nature, and it does it in style and luxury.
Vira Vira is a relaxed yet luxurious lodge located in Chile's picturesque Lake District. Surrounded by dramatic landscapes of glacial lakes, snowy-tipped volcanoes and lush rainforests, Vira Vira is perfectly positioned for exploration and adventure.
Set within a private reserve on the outskirts of the Torres del Paine National Park, Awasi Patagonia’s villas are the perfect base from which to explore the surrounding forests and mountains. Cut off from WiFi, this feels truly like a wilderness, one which is wonderfully tranquil.
The Singular Santiago is an urban boutique hotel in the very centre of the lively Chilean capital. The outside of the building has a definite grandeur and an almost palace-like feel. Once you enter, however, it’s clear every effort has been made to make you feel both relaxed and comfortable.
Vik Chile is a stunning avant-garde retreat and spa, perched on a lakeside hilltop with views over its vines towards the towering Andes Mountains.
With just 12 beautiful suites, each with its own private guide and 4x4, Awasi Atacama is the perfect base from which to explore the surrounding desert at your own pace, and to indulge your interests.
Easter Island’s newest hotel development is a place of unquestionable luxury and attention to detail, yet it maintains a sense of personality and the character of an eco-lodge. The scale and quality of the facilities and number of potential excursions are highly impressive, but you will also feel embraced by the ethos of the staff and warmed by the design of the buildings.
Surrounded by Andean peaks, and within the beautiful Chilean countryside, the lodge sits on a hillside on the banks of the Rio Palena in the Chilean Lake District. It is fantastically located in a remote region.
As it was the very first luxury hotel to open in Patagonia, Explora Torres del Paine is an undeniable part of South American history. It is also a place of polished expertise when helping guests to get the most out of its impressive location. It is the only luxury hotel in the area to be open year-round, so it is ideal for a cozy winter interlude.
The W Hotel in Santiago is a place of style and comfort in an excellent location. You can guarantee that your stay in this efficient and elegantly fashionable hotel will enable you both to relax and also see what Chile’s vibrant capital city has to offer.
Casa Higueras is hidden from view behind an unremarkable facade on a very ordinary street, but step through its doors and you will discover its elegant charms. Climb up to the roof and it gets even better, with spectacular views of Valparaíso Bay below.
The winery’s gorgeous manor house was converted into a hotel in 1992, and it has a distinctly Pompeian style, with a raspberry pink and white exterior, built around a central yard and fountain. This property represents opulence that will satisfy even the most exacting epicurean.
Tierra Atacama is a family-owned boutique hotel and spa on the outskirts of San Pedro de Atacama. The desert which surrounds you calls for outdoor adventures, but you’ll be more than glad to come home to Tierra Atacama at the end of the day.
The small-scale, personal nature of this hotel, along with its delightful design and modern facilities make it a real Polynesian gem.
Tierra Chiloé advocates a slower pace of life. Situated amidst the gorgeous blue waters of Chile’s northern Patagonia region, this contemporary glass structure stands on its own island, surrounded by ancient fishing villages. Guests are assured an exceptional experience in unrivalled surroundings.
Hotel Luciano K is the very best that Santiago has to offer; your stay here will not disappoint. This very stylish boutique hotel blends period and art deco design. The rooms are fabulous and its location at the heart of the city is ideal.
The Palacio Astoreca in Valparaíso is worthy of its title. This sprawling pink and white palace lies nestled in the hills, overlooking the city, its gardens adorned with palm trees. Only established in 2012, this hotel has quickly become a firm favourite for Chileans and foreigners alike.
Ultimate privacy with spectacular views from Awasi Patagonia
Close up encounter with a puma in Torres del Paine
Hiking at Mirador Condor with views of Cuernos del Paine Patagonia
Cooking with locals in the Atacama Desert
Stargazing in the Atacama Desert
Easter Island Moai statue
We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been crafting the finest tailor-made holidays to the world’s wild places. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you every time.We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been crafting the finest tailor-made holidays to the world’s wild places. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you every time.
An experienced team of well-travelled individuals, passionate about crafting journeys that are as exceptional as they are personal, while maximising our positive impact on the places in which we work.
While the evolution of travel and technology has seen much change at Journeysmiths over the years, our fundamental beliefs about the perfect holiday have not.
Journeysmiths mission is to inspire and expand peoples horizons through exceptional travel experiences, while preserving the natural world for future generations.
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