We loved our visit to Chile. We had fantastic guides throughout, but extra kudos to Agustin at Zenit Travel in Pucon, and his colleagues Gonzalo and Carlos. Gonzalo took us on a rafting trip in the Liucura River, where my son was able to fish and also had the opportunity to learn how to row the raft. Carlos went above a beyond - taking us a fantastic hike to Sanctuario El Cani, and thermal baths, but also helping us when we needed to change our plans a bit. Cannot recommend Zenit Travel... read more
We loved our visit to Chile. We had fantastic guides throughout, but extra kudos to Agustin at Zenit Travel in Pucon, and his colleagues Gonzalo and Carlos. Gonzalo took us on a rafting trip in the Liucura River, where my son was able to fish and also had the opportunity to learn how to row the raft. Carlos went above a beyond - taking us a fantastic hike to Sanctuario El Cani, and thermal baths, but also helping us when we needed to change our plans a bit. Cannot recommend Zenit Travel more.
As well, the guides in San Pedro de Atacama were fantastic, particularly Diego (full-day tour of Altiplanico) and Victor (Tatio Geysers). We also really enjoyed our trekking experience in Torres Del Paine with Juan Pablo. Truly, all of the guides were great - I could mention everyone.
Finally, everything happened on schedule and as described. We were picked up in the documented timeframe and we were on time for all of our flights. There was always someone waiting for us an the airport, and excellent communication via WhatsApp from the tour operators. We always felt like we were in good hands.
The hotels were also great, with a special mention to the Altiplanico Hotel in Puerto Natales. The food was incredible and the architecture of the hotel is really interesting and cool. But all of the hotels were comfortable, clean, and had friendly staff.
Hotel Reviews
Hotel Plaza San Francisco
Santiago
This was a great hotel that is in the very center of the city.
Location
Close to Cerro Santa Lucia and markets; walking distance to Bellavista.
Altiplanico Atacama
San Pedro de Atacama
This hotel is great; the only potential drawback is that it is a ten minute walk from most of the shops and restaurants in San Pedro.
Altiplanico Puerto Natales
Natales
We loved this hotel. It is not in the middle of Puerto Natales, but it is a short cab ride away, and has an awesome restaurant. The bathroom floors are heated and there is a heated towel rack as well - this felt luxurious after trekking in Torres Del Paine or seeing glaciers.
Hotel Pucon Green Park
Pucon
This is a very family-friendly hotel; it actually seemed to be mostly Chilean families on vacation (which was a positive for us). It was a beautiful pool and green area. It is a bit outside of the center of Pucon, but it is a quick cab ride or slightly longer walk.
Activity Reviews
Half day City Tour Santiago de Chile (Parks)
Santiago
This was a kid-friendly way to learn some of the history of Santiago while also climbing around and enjoying the outdoors. We particularly liked Cerro Santa Lucia and Cerro San Cristobal, but the Bicentennial Park in Vitacura was also beautiful, and an interesting contrast between older and newer parks.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
San Pedro de Atacama: Moon Valley and Death Valley Excursion
San Pedro de Atacama
This was a great introduction to some of the landscapes around San Pedro. It was also a good way to squeeze in a tour on a travel day, as it left later in the afternoon.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hiking the great dune.
Evening Astronomy Tour
San Pedro de Atacama
The guides were fantastic and we were able to see a number of stars, planets, and other space things. Great explanations were given, and it was nice to have some snacks available. It was also close to the hotel, which was good considering it was a late night and we had a child with us. So not having to do a long drive was a bonus.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Leandro Zamprogno
