16 Day Complete Patagonia with Easter Island

Welcome to Chile! Upon your arrival at Santiago de Chile Airport (SCL), please make your way to the Hotel Aeropuerto Santiago, Holiday Inn. Your hotel is ideally located directly in front of the Airport Terminal, just a few steps outside of baggage claim.

Once you’ve checked in, the rest of the day is at leisure. Take a dip in the heated pool, relax in the sauna or head for the gym to stretch after your flight. The Grill Restaurant and Boarding Bar is a good choice for dinner. It has an extensive menu with plenty of Chilean wine. 

NOTE: 
Standard check-in time is 3pm. If you are arriving earlier you are welcome to leave your luggage at the hotel until your room is ready. 

After breakfast, check out and make your way to Santiago Airport’s Domestic Terminal for your included flight to Easter Island. 

Upon arrival at Mataveri International Airport, you will be transferred to Taha Tai Hotel, your home for the next three nights. 

The Taha Tai Hotel is set in idyllic tropical gardens and only a short stroll to the shore. From the main red-roof building and down a path you’ll find the bar and dining room with the most spectacular ocean views. It’s just 500 meters from the center of Hanga Roa, while Hanga Roa Museum is 3-km away.

This evening, opt for dinner at the hotel restaurant or venture to Hanga Roa. Here, you won’t find fast food franchises but instead restaurants serving traditional Rapa Nui cuisine: plenty of native fish and seafood like mahi-mahi and kana-kana, and rape-rape, a type of crayfish, alongside sweet potato and taro. Delicious! 

Today after breakfast, you will be picked up at 9am to start your full day tour of Anakena. Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit as we’ll have the chance to go for a dip later in the day. 

We will start our day with a visit to Ahu Akahanga, an archaeological site where the remains of what was an old village can be seen. According to oral tradition, the first king of the island, Ariki Hotu Matu’a, is buried here. It is said that his sons moved him here, his final resting place, from the top of the Rano Kau volcano.

Next, we will visit the Rano Raraku volcano where you’ll find the largest collection of moai or statues that were carved by the Rapa Nui people between 1250 and 1500. The moai were probably carved to commemorate important ancestors. This place is also known as the quarry, or the ‘factory of the moai.’ There are almost 400 statues here, in different stages of carving, with different characteristics and states of conservation. From here, we’ll move onto Ahu Tongariki, the site where you’ll find the most extensive platform (or ahu) which the moai stand upon. Ahu Tongariki is also home to the largest amount of restored moai on the whole island. 

Once we have visited these insightful sites, we will return to Hanga Roa where you will visit the family house of Mahinatur. You’ll also have the chance to learn about what grows on the island: the local trees, flowers and the typical vegetation.   A boxed lunch will be provided.

Heading to Te Pito Kura, a rock with magnetic properties, it is said to have been brought by the first king, also called ‘the navel of the world.’ You will also see Paro moai, the island's largest transported moai (it has been moved from the quarry). Lying face down, toppled from its ahu, Paro weighs 82 tonnes. 

To end our magical day, we will visit one of the most important sites in Rapa Nui culture, Hanga Rau o Te Ariki, where the Ahu Nau-Nau, a platform with seven moai statues (some wearing stone crowns and hats), sits facing the sea at Anakena beach. Our guide will tell us all about the history of this beautiful place. 

We will spend about 30 minutes here. Go for a swim in the crystal clear sea or relax with a book on the white sand. 

Following your tour you will return to your hotel where the remainder of the evening is free.

This morning after breakfast we will depart the hotel around 9am. On today’s tour you will learn about Rapa Nui mythology, discover important elements of the island's geography, and understand the enigmatic history of the ancient inhabitants of this isolated point on the planet.

We will take guided tours of Orongo Village and Rano Kau and Vinapu, some of the most important ceremonial centers of Easter Island. The journey includes rock paintings and archaeological sites of significant cultural value, an ascent to the Rano Kau volcano, and an interpretive trail through the ancestral village of Orongo.

The impressive Rano Kau crater, the widest and deepest on the island, and a visit to the platform (ahu) to view carved rocks and the remains of moai and pukao, rounds out the morning tour before returning to your hotel.

At 2.30pm, we’ll head off on our afternoon tour of archaeological sites Ahu Akivi, Ana Te Pahu, and Puna Pau. We’ll view the platform with seven moai that, according to oral tradition, was created in honor of the first explorers of Rapa Nui. We’ll also explore the pukao quarry, Puna Pau, where the most decorative pukao (hat-like structures or topknots on top of moai statues) can be seen. There’s also a stellar, panoramic view of Hanga Roa village to enjoy. 

We will also visit the magnificent cave, Ana Te Pahu, which was used by the ancient Rapa Nui as a dwelling and refuge during times of social instability.

We’ll return to the hotel where the rest of the day is at leisure.

On this morning's city tour of Rapa Nui, you will gain further insight into the history of the Rapa Nui people as we learn more about the megalithic stage of Rapa Nui culture. 

We’ll start on the west coast where one historically significant site, Ahu Tahai, has three different ahus (altars) - Ahu Ko Te Riku, Ahu Vai Uri, and Ahu Tahai - and features a moai with coral eyes. Our journey will continue to Ahu Hanga Kio’e, located 3 km from the village on the island's west coast near Tahai. 

Legend has it that this ceremonial center announced the investiture of the Ariki Henua (the island's king). It's a beautiful place that we’ll reach by foot from the Tahai area. On our route, we’ll stop at Padre Sebastián Englert Anthropological Museum, which houses a valuable collection of graphics and drawings depicting Rapa Nui culture. Established in 1973, the museum has a large collection (around
1,500 pieces) detailing the island's cultural heritage. 

We’ll return to the hotel to collect your luggage and you’ll be transferred to Mataveri International Airport for your included flight back to Santiago.

On arrival in Santiago you will be met and transferred to your hotel.  The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Today is free to explore Santiago at your leisure.  

Santiago, Chile, offers a vibrant mix of culture and nature. Why not start your day at Plaza de Armas, the city’s historic heart, where you can admire the Metropolitan Cathedral and nearby museums. Take a stroll through the bohemian Bellavista neighborhood, known for its colorful street art and lively cafes.

For stunning views, head to Cerro San Cristóbal. You can hike or take a funicular to the summit for panoramic vistas of the Andes. 

Explore the modern side of Santiago in the Lastarria district, filled with art galleries and boutique shops. With its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and access to nature, Santiago offers something for everyone!

Early this morning you will be transferred to the airport for your included flight to Puerto Natales, gateway to the famous Torres del Paine National Park.

On arrival you are met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel where the rest of your day is at leisure.

Please note that your internal flights within South America have a luggage limit of 15kg per person (33lbs). Unfortunately, Inspiring Vacations cannot increase this limit and is limited by the airlines luggage policy.  Any fees for excess baggage incurred at the airport will be the responsibility of the traveller and payable directly to the airline during check in.

You will be collected from the hotel this morning to join a full day group tour of the incredible Torres del Paine National Park. Begin by visiting the ancient Cueva del Milodón, known for its historical significance and natural beauty. Next, explore the village Cerro Castillo, a former livestock farm before entering the breathtaking Torres del Paine National Park, known for its wildlife and stunning views. Experience the highlights of the park, including Lake Nordenskjold, Pehoé, and the picturesque Salto Grande waterfall. Take a short hike to appreciate the park's lakes, rivers, and diverse flora and fauna. Enjoy an included lunch within the park before continuing to Grey Lake and Glacier, a remarkable part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. Walk through the scenic lenga beech woods to the lake's shore and marvel at the impressive icebergs. 

Late this afternoon we transfer back to Puerto Natales returning back to your hotel between 7pm- 8pm this evening. 

Please note that the tour routing and inclusions are subject to weather conditions.

Today is a full day at leisure to relax or explore the region at your own pace. Alternatively, you may wish to join the optional tour below.

Early this morning you will be transferred to the bus station and assisted to the shuttle transfer to El Calafate in Argentina - the gateway for exploring the breathtaking Los Glaciares National Park, home to iconic attractions such as the world-famous Perito Moreno Glacier.

Upon arrival at the El Calafate bus station this afternoon, a friendly local representative will be waiting to greet you and provide assistance with your transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

Today you will be met at the hotel to join a full day tour of the incredible Perito Moreno Glacier and Los Glaciares National Park. On the journey, enjoy the breathtaking view of Argentino Lake and Redonda Bay, home to diverse bird species and surrounded by the picturesque yellow fields of the Patagonian steppe. Once at the glacier, marvel at its majestic presence. The catwalks are divided into three circuits: Central Balconies, Lower Balcony, and Coast's Balcony, each offering resting and panoramic viewpoints where you will have ample time to explore the catwalks on your own experiencing the awe-inspiring beauty of the glacier. 

Additionally, you can take an optional boat tour to approach the glacier's southern front.

Please note: January - March 2024 departures will be staying at the 4-star Design Suites Calafate Hotel

Today is at leisure to relax in the charming town of El Calafate. Alternatively, you may like to take one of the optional day tours below.

Meet your local guide this morning in the hotel lobby for your transfer to the airport to continue our journey by flight to Ushuaia. This southernmost city in Argentina offers a unique experience with around 18 hours of sunlight in the summer and 7-8 hours in winter. The city serves as a gateway to breathtaking voyages along the Beagle Channel and Lapataia Bay in Tierra del Fuego National Park. 

This afternoon enjoy a three-hour navigation of the Beagle Channel by catamaran. Along the way, you'll witness the stunning coastal view of Ushuaia as you sail southwest, you'll approach Sea Lion's Island, home to a colony of sea lions and journey past Birds Island, where you can observe Magellanic Cormorants and Imperial Cormorants. The final destination is the Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, located in the archipelago of the same name. On the return, you'll pass through Paso Chico, catching sight of Estancias Tunnel and Fique, while enjoying the magnificent backdrop of Monte Martial and its glacier.

Please note: Depending on weather and arrival time of your flight, this tour may occur on Day 9 after the Tierra del Fuego Park tour. 

Please note that your internal flights within South America have a luggage limit of 15kg per person (33lbs). Unfortunately, Inspiring Vacations cannot increase this limit and is limited by the airlines luggage policy.  Any fees for excess baggage incurred at the airport will be the responsibility of the traveller and payable directly to the airline during check in.

This morning at approximately 8.00am, meet your local guide in the hotel lobby to join a tour through the Tierra del Fuego National Park. Accessed via National Route No. 3 southwest of Ushuaia, the route includes Río Pipo, Monte Susana, Ensenada Bay, Redonda Island, Lake Roca, Casita del Bosque, Green and Black Lagoon, beaver dam, and Lapataia Bay. The Park's topography is diverse, featuring rugged mountains, rivers, valleys, and lakes, offering picturesque streams, majestic mountains, and the breathtaking Beagle Channel. In spring and summer, vibrant flowers and diverse tree species can be seen. Mammals such as foxes, rabbits, muskrats, and beavers inhabit the Park, while unique bird species like the black-browed albatross, oystercatcher overo, and white cauquén can be observed. A highlight today is a ride aboard the “End of the World Train”. Relive the history of the old convict's train, offering magnificent landscape views along the Pipo River, Macarena cascade, tree cemetery, and enchanting forests within the Tierra del Fuego National Park.

Return to the hotel around lunch time, where the rest of the afternoon and evening are at leisure.

Today, transfer to Ushuaia airport for your included flight to Buenos Aires. On arrival you are met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel located in the heart of this beautiful city. 

Take time to relax and explore the local area as the rest of today is at leisure. Alternatively, you may wish to experience true Aregntinian culture and hospitality at a dinner and a tango show. 

Please note that your internal flights within South America have a luggage limit of 15kg per person (33lbs). Unfortunately, Inspiring Vacations cannot increase this limit and is limited by the airlines luggage policy.  Any fees for excess baggage incurred at the airport will be the responsibility of the traveller and payable directly to the airline during check in.

Your tour concludes at the hotel after breakfast. 

A private departure transfer to the airport can be booked at an additional charge.  

Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.

Note: Standard check out is 11am. If you have booked a late departure flight, you are welcome to leave your bags at the hotel until your transfer is ready.