Laguna Del Inca and Portillo Semi-Private

Nestled in the heart of the Andes, the Laguna Del Inca and Portillo Semi-Private day trip offers a chance to escape the bustle of Santiago. Travelers can expect breathtaking views, personalized wine tastings, and a guided tour – all within a small group setting. Whether seeking natural beauty or a deeper insight into Chilean culture, this adventure promises an unforgettable experience. What awaits beyond the city limits?

Key Points

• A semi-private day trip from Santiago to Laguna del Inca and Portillo ski resort, with a maximum group size of 6 travelers.
• Includes a tasting of four Chilean wines from the Aconcagua Valley and a tour of the In Situ Wines – Viña San Esteban winery.
• Scenic drive through the ‘Chilean Snails’ with high mountain views, subject to weather conditions and accessibility.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off available, with lunch options at Hotel Portillo or in Los Andes village.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour starts, with an impressive 4.8 rating based on verified reviews.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This semi-private day trip from Santiago takes visitors to the stunning Laguna del Inca and the renowned Portillo ski resort.

Guests will taste four Chilean wines from the Aconcagua Valley and tour the In Situ Wines – Viña San Esteban, which features onsite petroglyphs.

The scenic drive through ‘The Chilean Snails’ to Portillo offers high mountain views from Laguna del Inca.

The tour includes a driver/guide, hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels), and lunch options at Hotel Portillo or in Los Andes village.

The maximum group size is 6 travelers, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Inclusions and Logistics

The tour includes a driver/guide, who’s responsible for the transport and guiding throughout the day.

A driver/guide handles the transportation and guiding duties for the duration of the day-long tour.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are provided, but only for selected hotels.

Lunch options are available at Hotel Portillo or in the village of Los Andes.

The group size is capped at 6 travelers, ensuring a semi-private experience.

Regarding timing, the pickup starts at 9:30 am, and travelers can select a pickup point within the tourist circuit.

Lastly, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Pickup and Timing

Pickup for this tour starts at 9:30 am. Guests can select a pickup point within the tourist circuit in Santiago.

The tour has a maximum group size of 6 travelers, ensuring a semi-private experience. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start of the tour, providing flexibility for participants.

While the tour operates year-round, access to certain areas may be restricted during the snowy months from May to October, and snowstorms from June to August. Guests are advised to dress warmly and bring necessary outdoor gear to enjoy the scenic mountain views.

Weather Considerations

Although the tour operates year-round, weather conditions can impact accessibility to certain areas.

The Laguna del Inca and Portillo region experiences snowstorms from June to August, with snow cover common from May to October. During these snowy months, access to some areas may be restricted due to safety concerns.

Visitors should be prepared for cooler temperatures and the possibility of snow. It’s advisable to check the weather forecast prior to the tour and pack appropriate clothing and gear.

The tour operator will adjust the itinerary if necessary to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Additional Information

Confirmation of the tour booking is provided at the time of purchase.

The tour is wheelchair accessible for travelers who require it.

Recommendations for the trip include sunscreen, sunglasses, and warm clothing to prepare for the mountain environment.

The tour price starts from $200.00 per person.

The tour has an impressive 4.8 rating based on 6 verified reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor platforms.

Key details:

1. Wheelchair accessible

2. Recommendations: sunscreen, sunglasses, warm clothing

3. Tour price: From $200.00 per person

4. 4.8 rating based on 6 reviews, verified by Viator & Tripadvisor

Aconcagua Valley Wine Tasting

As part of the semi-private day trip, travelers can look forward to tasting four distinct Chilean wines from the renowned Aconcagua Valley.

This premier wine region is known for its exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah varieties.

The tour includes a visit to In Situ Wines – Viña San Esteban, where guests can sample the vineyard’s finest offerings while surrounded by ancient petroglyphs.

This unique tasting experience provides an opportunity to explore the rich winemaking traditions and terroir of the Aconcagua Valley, complementing the scenic drive and visit to Laguna del Inca and Portillo.

In Situ Wines – Viña San Esteban

The tour includes a visit to In Situ Wines – Viña San Esteban, where guests can sample the vineyard’s finest offerings while surrounded by ancient petroglyphs.

The winery boasts a unique blend of modern winemaking and prehistoric art, providing a one-of-a-kind tasting experience.

Visitors can expect to:

1. Explore the on-site petroglyphs, dating back hundreds of years.

2. Taste a selection of Viña San Esteban’s acclaimed wines from the Aconcagua Valley.

3. Learn about the winery’s sustainable practices and commitment to preserving the region’s cultural heritage.

4. Enjoy the stunning mountain vistas that frame the vineyards.

Scenic Drive to Portillo

After exploring the winery, the tour continues with a scenic drive through the region known as ‘The Chilean Snails’.

The winding roads offer breathtaking mountain vistas and a unique geological landscape. Passing through small villages, the guide shares insights into the local culture and history.

As the elevation increases, the scenery becomes more dramatic, with towering peaks and glaciers coming into view.

The drive culminates at the renowned Portillo Ski Resort, situated amid the Andes Mountains.

Travelers have the option to enjoy lunch at the hotel or in the nearby village, before continuing the journey back to Santiago.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour overview does not mention any restrictions, so guests are free to pack their own snacks and beverages to enjoy during the excursion.

Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?

The tour doesn’t offer customized itineraries. However, guests can choose between having lunch at Hotel Portillo or in Los Andes village. The experience is semi-private, with a maximum group size of 6 travelers.

Do I Need a Passport or ID for This Tour?

You’ll need a valid photo ID, like a passport, for this tour. It’s required for all participants to enter the Portillo area. The tour operator can’t accommodate the trip without proper identification.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Tour?

The tour includes restroom breaks at appropriate times, such as during the winery visit and lunch stop. The itinerary is designed to provide comfort and convenience for guests throughout the day.

Can I Take a Short Hike at Laguna Del Inca?

Yes, visitors can take a short hike around Laguna del Inca. The tour includes time to explore the lake’s scenic viewpoints, though the length and difficulty of hikes may vary based on weather and individual fitness levels.

The Sum Up

The Laguna Del Inca and Portillo Semi-Private day trip offers a unique opportunity to explore Chile’s stunning natural beauty. With a small group size, personalized experiences, and impressive Andean vistas, this tour provides an intimate and unforgettable escape from Santiago. Travelers can look forward to wine tastings, a guided winery visit, and the breathtaking scenery of the Laguna del Inca and Portillo region.