Day 1: Arrival in Chiloé & Wildlife-Watching Boat Trip
We leave Puerto Varas behind and head south to Ancud, gateway to Chiloé and one of its most important towns. Here we stop by its museum to learn about the island’s unique churches and also make a stop at its famous fishing market before driving east to Puñihuil, a natural monument consisting of three small islets*. After a filling lunch, we take to the seas to give you a closeup of some of the local marine life including the Humboldt and Magellanic Penguins. Afterward, we head to Castro so you can relax in the stunning grounds of Hotel Palafito, your base for the next two nights.
*Note: This itinerary is modified in winter due to penguin migration, and instead includes a visit to Fuerte Ahui from April to August.
- Overnight: Boutique Hotel, Castro (Chiloé)
- Includes: Lunch
Day 2: Chiloé National Park & Traditional Lunch
Today we go for an easy hike through Chiloé National Park, a remote expanse of evergreen tepú (Tepualia stipularis) forest that sits on the border of Huillinco and Cucao, two lakes that stretch between the island’s rolling hills. We finish in the indigenous community of Quique where a lunch of homemade dishes typical to Chiloé awaits. Afterward, we head back to enjoy the rest of the afternoon in Castro, making a small stop on the way to see the patrimonial church of Chonchi that dates back to the 19th century.
- Overnight: Boutique Hotel, Castro (Chiloé)
Day 3: Chiloé Church Exploration & Quinchao Island
Today is all about uncovering Chiloé’s unique churches, which are also UNESCO World Heritage sites. This morning we head over to the island of Quinchao and follow its breathtaking coastal route to see the archipelago's oldest church in Achao. After some more local cuisine for lunch, we make the journey to the portside town of Dalcahue to see its iconic church that dates back to 1858, as well as its small market where you can pick up locally-made souvenirs made from wool. Afterward, we head back to Puerto Varas where your island adventure comes to a close