We had an amazing visit to Chile -- from four days in the Atacama desert to a week in Santiago (with some wonderful side trips) to a wedding outside the city. Our time in Atacama was active with an Astronomical Tour, a visit to the Valley of the Moon, and the lagoons to see flamingos, vicunas, llamas, and sheep. The guides were extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and warm. The experiences felt very individual and special -- the food and drinks were delicious and added to the really great...
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We had an amazing visit to Chile -- from four days in the Atacama desert to a week in Santiago (with some wonderful side trips) to a wedding outside the city. Our time in Atacama was active with an Astronomical Tour, a visit to the Valley of the Moon, and the lagoons to see flamingos, vicunas, llamas, and sheep. The guides were extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and warm. The experiences felt very individual and special -- the food and drinks were delicious and added to the really great experience. Each of our guides was wonderful, with special recognition to Vicente -- his passion and enthusiasm for his work and our surroundings made our experiences unforgettable. Ivonne (spelling?) or Ivi, who gave us the astronomical tour was super enthusiastic and made sure that everyone had the best experience. Thanks so much for the photos! The hotel was great -- very comfortable and close to Caracoles street (the Emporium has the best empanadas!!).
Our stay in Santiago was truly special. The Bidasoa Hotel is a little distant from downtown, but the meals were delicious and we could walk to the Ralli Museum. Our tour of Santiago gave us so much history and a chance to walk around. Just fantastic! Our excursions to the Cajon de Maipo and horseback riding in the Andes were very special. Thanks so much to Julio, Fernando, and Alberto. They were great! We are so happy that we worked with KimKim -- your responsiveness, creativity, and flexibility (switching activities because of the weather to make a better experience), made us feel cared for and important. We really appreciate the top level of care and attention you give to create the BEST experiences! I can't imagine anything better!
Hotel Reviews
Hotel Eco Boutique Bidasoa
Santiago
Bidasoa is absolutely beautiful and a wonderful stay. I would highly recommend it to anyone.
Authenticity & Character
Really wonderful environment and glad that it's eco-friendly.
Location
I loved the location, and ubers were plentiful, but it's a bit away from the action of the city. But I liked that!
Staff
The staff were wonderful -- the front desk (Helida) recommended a great cafe nearby; others helped me find and schedule time at the nail salon. Everyone was extremely friendly and helpful!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Everything was spotless and the room was very comfortable. We felt super special!
Hotel NOI Casa Atacama
San Pedro de Atacama
Activity Reviews
Horseback Riding in the Andes Mountains
Santiago
I was so happy we did this to get into the mountains, but it's not for everyone. It was beautiful and although I was getting carsick, experiencing the curves was something I won't forget! The horses were great and steady, but it was a little nerve-wracking to move through the mountains with no paths that we could see. Our guide was perfectly confident, so I just didn't look down and followed him. The views were incredible!
Quality of Experience
The beauty and quiet of the area.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Alberto was wonderful.
Transport
Alberto was great driving, but the curves....
We enjoyed this activity despite the day being overcast. It was also a Monday, so many cultural places were closed. However, we appreciated going through the city and getting a sense of the neighborhoods.
Quality of Experience
only because of the weather and the Monday
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Julio was wonderful and passionate about Chilean history and was flexible about taking us around
Full Day Excursion to Cajon de Maipo
Santiago
This was a great chance to see where residents of Santiago go for a break! Many of my friends talked about going as a family or when they were children. We had a wonderful day!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Felipe was a wonderful guide and great to talk with!
High Plateau Lagoons, Tradicional Agriculture and Socaire Weavers
Chile
Absolutely lovely! The first time that altitude was an issue, but it was well-worth the visit! Happy to learn about the traditional weaving and contribute to the beautiful work of the community.
Food
The food was wonderful throughout our activities and the guides took great care to make our tables very special and beautiful!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Atacama Salt Flat, Chaxa Lagoon and Tocanao Gardens
Chile
Quality of Experience
I loved the walk-through of the orchards and the explanation of the irrigation system.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Cejar Lagoon, Ojos del Salara, Tebenquiche Lagoon
Chile
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Valley of the Moon, Ayllus and Atacameña Tasting
Chile
This was an absolutely wonderful day. Vicente, our guide picked us up very early -- totally worth it! We saw the sunrise with a delicious breakfast and a big "welcome" to the sun. We heard the roosters, dogs and the town wake up below us before we went to the Valley of the Moon to experience the most beautiful, dramatic landscape. Vicente was really wonderful -- explaining everything -- and we knew we were with someone who loved his job and ensuring that visitors understand how special the Atacama Desert is! We went for the tasting and were able to walk around the garden and eat pomegranate from the tree. We felt the hospitality and completely comfortable!
Food
We loved the explanation and the tasting -- different and delicious!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Vicente is special!!
"Fire and Stars" Astronomical Tour
Chile
This was a highlight and a key reason for our trip. Ivi was super enthusiastic and knowledgeable. I would give this the highest recommendation. The snacks and drink were wonderful. And the photos we received were very special. Whoever thought of that, chef's kiss!! The information brought us into the Inca and Indigenous thinking, which was great our entire time in Atacama.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Nara Matos