Patagonia by Sea *9 Day*

Board the intimate motor yacht Cahuella for a truly unique exploration of the Northern Patagonian fjords and the charming island culture of Chiloe. Far from the beaten path, you\'ll visit small fishing villages only accessible by sea, explore the fantastic temperate rainforest and isolated natural hotsprings in Pumalin Park, and enjoy the freshest seafood and delicious meals along the way. A wonderful Chile travel adventure by sea!

Day 1 Arrive Santiago  

Day 2 Puerto Varas (B)  

This morning you fly south to the port town of Puerto Montt then transfer to Puerto Varas to begin your Chile travels. This charming city is located on Lake Llanquihue and offers plenty of opportunities to take in Chile's mountainous, snow-capped sites. The afternoon is yours to explore the region and the city's historic buildings, which offer an interesting look into the lives of the early German settlers who made this area their home during the 19th century. At night, you will rest soundly in this peaceful city before traveling to the Island of Chiloe in the morning.

Days 3-5 Island of Chiloe - Chile by Sea (3B,3L,3D)  

>See detailed Itinerary »

Early this morning you are greeted by your guide and transferred by ferry to the island of Chiloe, renowned for its folklore, traditional farming and fishing culture, rich wildlife, and charming residents.

Over the next few days, we’ll explore the area—Ancud, with its traditional crafts; the island penguin colony of Punihuil; small islands inhabited by hardy fisher-families, who will show us the famous Chiloe hospitality; and the protected bay of Mechuque Island, with its traditional palafitos (wooden houses built on stilts with boat parking underneath) resting just above the water.

Days 6-7 Pumalin Park (2B,2L,2D)  

As you cross the Gulf of Ancud towards the glacier-covered Andes to the east, you leave all sign of the charming villages and culture you've encountered these past few days. Your destination is the magnificent 600,000-acre Pumalin Park on the Chilean mainland. A variety of marine life often accompanies your crossing, so watch for leaping dolphins and curious sea lions along the way! Reaching the mainland, the mist-shrouded walls of Quintupeu Fjord rise sharply from the sea, looming 4,500 feet above as you drop anchor. This is a perfect spot for exploring upriver with the zodiac or taking some time onshore to enjoy the sweeping coastal views and quiet majesty of Patagonia.

The next day you will continue exploring this remote corner of Pumalin Park. Undisturbed tracts of temperate rainforest stretch for miles around you, clear rivers of glacial runoff rush toward the sea, and the prolific birdlife shares its song throughout the park. Your exploration this evening reveals one of the area's hidden treasures - a thermally heated river running through the forest, with numerous pools for you to soak in.

Day 8 Return Puerto Varas (B,L)  

You end your voyage in the town of Hornopirén at the foot of the volcano of the same name. After a farewell lunch with your crew you'll finish your Patagonia cruise and continue overland to Puerto Varas for the night.

Day 9 Santiago / Return Home (B)

Catch your flight to Santiago and connecting flights homeward, or with a bit more time you can continue your Patagonia travels by rafting or mountain biking in the Lakes District, helping a Mapuche family with the annual Araucaria seed harvest, exploring the Atacama Desert, hiking in Torres del Paine National Park or cruising around Tierra del Fuego to Argentina.
  

US$2030

J F M A M J J A S O N D
9 days starting in Santiago, Chile and ending in Puerto Montt, Chile.
Tour Code: PS9
Single Supplement:  US$375

US$1775 - PS6
PS9 w/only Chiloe & fjords


US$966 - PS4



Travel Highlights Chiloe Island
Puñihuil penguin colony
5N motor yacht Cahuella
remote island villages
Pumalin Park
Puerto Varas

Accommodations:  3 nights comfortable hotels, 5 nights motor yacht

Food Includes:  All meals as indicated (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner); most of our hotels offer free continental breakfast.

Transportation:  2 local flights, buses, ferries, zodiacs, motor yacht between the islands

Notes:  Roundtrip flight Santiago-Puerto Montt-Santiago is not included. Please add US$450 (flight cost subject to change).

Group & Staff:  Min 2, Max 8; Patagonian guide and crew throughout.

Personal Budgeting:  Allow US$80 for meals not included, US$130 visa reciprocity fee.

Pre & Post Tour Accommodations:  Santiago: Share US$60, Single US$100

Is it for Me?  A comfortable Chile travel itinerary of quaint villages, stunning nature and abundant wildlife that is perfect for any age.

Arrival / Departure Transfers: 1 person US$50 each
2 or more people US$25 /person
Start Dates 2008 : Oct 30, Nov 12, Nov 29, Dec 12, 2009 : Jan 12, Jan 30, Feb 12, Feb 27, Mar 12, Mar 30

Prices are based on a 3% cash discount