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Embark on an extraordinary adventure with Oasis Overland and unlock the secrets of South America's captivating heart and soul: Chile. Stretching like a ribbon along the continent's western edge, Chile beckons with a breathtaking tapestry of dramatic contrasts. From the arid mystique of the Atacama Desert in the north to the towering, icy majesty of Patagonia in the south, and the fertile vineyards of the central valleys in between, this remarkable land offers an unparalleled journey of discovery. Join us as we traverse this diverse nation, immersing ourselves in its vibrant culture, savoring its unique flavors, and encountering landscapes that will leave you spellbound. Prepare to be enchanted by the warmth of its people and the sheer, untamed beauty that defines the very essence of Chile.
SALTA TO SANTIAGO
From here we head for Chile as we cross the Andes past the Inca Bridge and San Martin's pass and into the modern capital, Santiago. We have some free time here to explore the city, and with famous Chilean Steak houses, the Casillero del Diablo winery, skiing available in the winter, you will find it easy to pass the days away.
SANTIAGO TO HANGING GLACIER NP
Leaving Santiago, we pass small villages and deep blue lakes with mountains towering above us as we wind through Chile's Lake District. Pucon, an outdoors centre in its own right, will be our base for the next few nights from where it is possible to organise whitewater rafting, water sports, horse riding and one day hikes up nearby Villarrica Volcano. Ascending the Andes via some spectacular mountain passes we arrive in Bariloche, Argentina. This very popular holiday destination for Argentinians is the top ski resort on the continent and also has several hiking trails and a great nightlife.
Crossing back into Chile, we stop at Futaleufu, which sits at the confluence of the Fugaleufu and Espolon river valleys, and has some of the very best river rafting in the world. Those inclined will have the chance to try this out, and enjoy the fast waters, regular rapids, and beautiful turquoise waters and surrounding mountain scenery.
We’ll continue driving south through the mountains along Chile’s famous Carretera Austral highway to Hanging Glacier National Park. Weather permitting, you’ll be able to hike to see the spectacular sight of the glacier as it terminates at the end of a rocky mountain valley with a high sheer cliff, waterfall and lake beneath.
PUERTO NATALES & TORRES DEL PAINE NP
From Calafate we cross back into Chile and arrive at the coast at Puerto Natales. We base ourselves here for several days particularly for visits to Torres del Paine National Park, another area of outstanding beauty where huge granite cliffs dominate the landscape. A good way to explore the area is either hiking or by horseback. Here there is also the option to complete the famous W-Trek (bookable as an Add on), and we allow 4 full days for people to complete this trek. Please note that spaces on the trek are subject to availability. For those who do not want to complete the W-Trek there are options of shorter day hikes in the park which do not need to be booked ahead and you are free to do as you choose once there. You could also take a boat trip to Magdalena Island, which hosts one of the largest colonies of Magellanic Penguins, exceeding 150,000. During the trip you may also spot Austral Dolphins and Toninas.
PUERTO NATALES TO USHUAIA
We continue south towards the wild and hauntingly beautiful Land at Worlds End, the island of Tierra del Fuego. We cross by ferry to the most southerly town in the world Ushuaia, from where you can view the green waters of the Beagle Channel, and the snow clad peaks beyond.
We have a few days here, and boat trips on the Beagle Channel and to Penguin Island are available as well as hiking trips to the Emerald Lagoon or the Vinciguerra Glacier. For those not feeling so active, a fun and scenic vintage steam train ride is available on the Fuegian Railway into the Tierra del Fuego National Park.
CARTAGENA TO MANAUS INC. GUIANAS (29 WEEKS) TRANS SOUTH AMERICA
Embark on the journey of a lifetime with an exploratory expedition which takes you throughout South America. Witness some of the most striking landscapes that this part of the world has to offer as you travel through dense rainforests, dry deserts and high altiplano. Experience the pristine coastlines and vibrant cities as you get a real feel of the sights, sounds and flavours of the true South America.