Excitement in Chile

South America is a land of contrasts, from high mountains to some of the the most beautiful beaches in the world. Once known as a dark and mysterious region, it was home to people who built spectacular monuments and knew strange and esoteric secrets that are still undiscovered today. Start your adventure in this exciting continent with a visit to Chile's capital, Santiago. Plan your trip with Mercury Travels and experience a new kind of magic...

CHILE - SANTIAGO (4 nights/5 days)
Day 1 – Arrive Santiago
You are received at Santiago airport and transferred to the hotel by coach. Commence with a half day city tour by coach. The tour starts from the Iglesia San Francisco (San Francisco Church); a brief stopover at the Club Hípico - one of the most beautiful horse racing courses in South America; then downtown past the Palace Cousiño; before a brief halt at the Plaza de la Constitución (The Constitution Square). Continue towards the Plaza de Armas, which houses the Cathedral Church, the City Hall and the National History Museum. Stop at the Cerro Santa Lucía (Santa Lucía Hill), before crossing the Mapocho River to reach the residential areas with its beautiful houses, parks and malls. Visit FABA, a fine lapizlazuli handicraft store. Overnight in Santiago.
Day 2 – Santiago
Enjoy a full day Vina Del Mar and Valparaiso tour by coach. Enjoy the 110 km drive across the beautiful valleys of Curacaví and Casablanca. On arrival at Valparaíso, take in the scenic view of the clusters of houses alongside the hills. Drive along the coastline road to Viña del Mar, also known as the Ciudad Jardín (Spanish for ‘Garden City’), due to its impressive parks, walks and beautiful buildings. One of its key attractions is the exclusive casino founded by Don José Francisco Vergara. Viña del Mar has several beaches like the Reñaca, Las Salinas, Miramar and others. Reñaca is its main beach and has several prestigious restaurants and modern buildings. Return to Santiago in the mid-afternoon. Overnight in Santiago.
Day 3 – Santiago
Today is earmarked for a full day Vinedo tour. Visit the Iglesia de San Francisco (San Francisco Church), before spending an exciting day at a vineyard. A truly memorable experience! Overnight in Santiago.
Day 4 – Santiago
After breakfast, proceed on your full day Isla Negra tour. Isla Negra (Black Island) is a beach named after its dark colored sand, surrounded by pine tree and eucalyptus wood. Stop for a visit to the house of Pablo Neruda, Literature Nobel Prize Winner in 1974, which is now turned into a museum. Spend some time at the El Quisco beach. Proceed south along the coastline, past several beaches such as El Tabo, Las Cruces, San Sebastian and Cartagena. Then take the Autopista del Sol (Highway of the Sun) stopping at Pomaire, a small town famed for its clay pottery and handicrafts. Overnight in Santiago.
Day 5 – Depart Santiago
After breakfast, its time for your transfer to the airport for your return flight back home.