How to Plan Your Private Maipo Valley Wine Tour Cousino Macul and Aquitania in Santiago

If you are a wine lover, then Santiago is the perfect place to plan a tour of the Maipo Valley. This tour will allow you to explore the Alto Maipo Valley and its two boutique wineries, Cousino Macul and Aquitania. This private tour is tailored to meet your needs and offers a personalized experience that you will treasure for a long time. It offers guided tours of both the vineyards as well as tasting sessions where you can sip on some of the finest wines in the shadow of the Andes Mountains. Here’s how you can plan your private Maipo Valley wine tour in Santiago:

Step 1: Book Your Tour

The first step is to book your tour. You can book the tour through GetYourGuide, a third-party company that offers a range of tours in Santiago and other parts of the world. The tour is offered by a local tour operator who will meet you at your hotel at the scheduled time.

Step 2: Choose Your Tour Date and Time

When booking your tour, you will need to choose your preferred tour date and time. The tour is available throughout the week and starts from 9:00 AM. You will have the option to choose between a morning or afternoon tour.

Step 3: Arrive at the Meeting Point

You will be picked up from your hotel at the scheduled time by your tour guide. They will take you to the vineyards in a private vehicle. The journey from Santiago to the Maipo Valley takes approximately an hour and a half.

Step 4: Visit Viña Cousino Macul

The first stop on your tour will be at Viña Cousino Macul, a boutique winery located in the heart of Maipo Valley. You will be greeted at the winery by an expert guide who will take you on a tour of the vineyards. Here, you will learn about the winemaking process and the history of the vineyard. After the tour, you will be taken to the tasting room where you will be able to sample some of the best wines produced at Viña Cousino Macul. You will have the opportunity to taste three wines – Lota, Finis Terrae, and Flor de Pingus.

Step 5: Visit Viña Aquitania

The second stop on your tour will be at Viña Aquitania, another boutique winery located in the Alto Maipo Valley. At this winery, you will have the opportunity to taste some of the finest wines produced in Chile. Here, you will be taken on a tour of the vineyards, followed by a tasting session where you will be able to sample some of the unique wines produced at Viña Aquitania. The tasting session includes three wines – Lazuli, Sol de Sol, and Trinita.

Step 6: Return to Santiago

After the tour, you will be driven back to Santiago, and dropped off at your hotel.

Overview of the Tour

The private Maipo Valley wine tour of Cousino Macul and Aquitania is a wonderful opportunity to explore the beauty of the Maipo Valley and sample some of the best wines produced by these two boutique wineries. Here’s an overview of what you can expect on this tour:

Experience:

Enjoy a private tour of two Alto Maipo Valley boutiques wineries, guided tours of the vineyards, and tasting sessions.

Highlights:

Sip on delicious wines in the shadow of the Andes Mountains, experience the beautiful Maipo Valley and Andes Mountains, learn about the winemaking process, and explore two boutique wineries.

Tour Description:

The tour starts at Viña Cousino Macul, where you will be taken on a tour of the vineyards and learn about the winemaking process. This is followed by a tasting session where you will sample three wines. The second stop is at Viña Aquitania, where you will be taken on a tour of the vineyards and have the opportunity to taste three unique wines. The tour concludes with a drive back to Santiago, where you will be dropped off at your hotel.

Book Your Tour Now

A private Maipo Valley wine tour of Cousino Macul and Aquitania is a great way to experience the beauty of the Maipo Valley and sample some of the best wines in the region. Book your tour today and enjoy a personalized experience that you will treasure for a long time. Book the tour here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Santiago

If you’re planning a trip or considering moving to Santiago, Chile, you likely have questions about the city. Here are some frequently asked questions about Santiago and their answers.

1. Where is Santiago located?

Santiago is the capital and largest city in Chile, located in the central part of the country. It sits in a valley surrounded by the Andes Mountains with a Mediterranean climate and is about a two-hour drive from the Pacific Ocean.

2. What is the population of Santiago?

The population of Santiago is approximately 7 million people in the city’s metropolitan area.

3. What is the local currency, and how much does it cost to visit Santiago?

The local currency is the Chilean peso, and as of August 2021, the exchange rate is about 1 USD to 781.12 CLP. The cost of visiting Santiago will vary based on your travel style, but accommodations, transportation, and meals can be found at a range of prices.

4. What are the best things to do in Santiago?

Some of the best things to do in Santiago include visiting the historic center, exploring the city’s museums, hiking in the Andes, trying Chilean cuisine, and visiting nearby wineries.

5. Is Santiago a safe city?

Santiago is considered a relatively safe city, but visitors and residents should take standard safety precautions such as being aware of surroundings, avoiding walking alone at night in certain neighborhoods, and not leaving belongings unattended.

6. What is the transportation system like in Santiago?

Santiago has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses and a metro system. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also available.

7. What is the best time of year to visit Santiago?

The best time of year to visit Santiago is during the summer months from December to February, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest tourist season.

8. What is the food like in Santiago?

Santiago is known for its fresh seafood, grilled meats, and unique Chilean dishes such as empanadas, pastel de choclo, and cazuela. There are also many international cuisine options to choose from.

9. What are some cultural events in Santiago?

Santiago has a vibrant cultural scene, with festivals and events throughout the year. Some notable events include the Santiago a Mil theater festival in January, the Feast of the Virgin of Carmen in July, and the Fiestas Patrias celebrations in September.

10. Is it easy to find English speakers in Santiago?

While Spanish is the primary language spoken in Santiago, it’s not uncommon to find English speakers in areas frequented by tourists, such as popular attractions and restaurants.

11. What is the weather like in Santiago?

Santiago has a Mediterranean climate, with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. The weather can vary depending on the location within the city, with higher temperatures in the valleys and cooler temperatures in the mountains.

12. What are the best day trips from Santiago?

Some of the best day trips from Santiago include visiting the coastal cities of Valparaiso and Viña del Mar, exploring the nearby Andes Mountains, and visiting local wineries for tastings.

13. Is Santiago a good place to live?

Santiago offers a high quality of life with a vibrant cultural scene, excellent healthcare, and a lower cost of living compared to other major cities in South America. However, like any city, it’s important to consider factors such as job opportunities, safety, and personal preferences when deciding if it’s the right place to move.

14. What are the visa requirements for visiting or living in Santiago?

Visa requirements for Santiago vary depending on your country of origin and the length of your stay. It’s important to research visa requirements and restrictions before planning your trip or move. Overall, Santiago is a fascinating city with a rich culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re planning a short visit or considering living there long-term, these frequently asked questions will help you better understand what to expect.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Santiago

Santiago, the capital of Chile, is a beautiful city that attracts millions of tourists each year. The city is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture. However, with so many things to see and do in Santiago, it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. In this post, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make the most of your time as a tourist in Santiago.

Step 1: Understand Santiago’s Layout

Before you start planning your itinerary, it’s important to understand the layout of the city. Santiago is divided into several districts, each with its own unique set of attractions. The most popular district among tourists is Centro, which is the historic center of the city. Other popular districts include Providencia, Las Condes, and Vitacura.

Step 2: Visit Santiago’s Must-See Attractions

Santiago has plenty of must-see attractions that are worth visiting. Here are a few of them:

1. Cerro San Cristobal

Cerro San Cristobal is a hill that offers stunning views of Santiago. Visitors can reach the top of the hill by taking a funicular or cable car. Once at the top, you can explore the 22-meter tall statue of the Virgin Mary, walk through a Japanese-style garden, or have a picnic.

2. La Moneda Palace

La Moneda Palace is the seat of the President of Chile and a symbol of the country’s political history. Visitors can take a tour of the palace and learn about Chile’s democratic history.

3. Plaza de Armas

Plaza de Armas is Santiago’s main square and the heart of the city. Visitors can admire the beautiful architecture of the buildings surrounding the square or visit the Metropolitan Cathedral, the largest church in Chile.

4. Parque Bicentenario

Parque Bicentenario is a beautiful park in the Vitacura district. Visitors can relax by the lakeside, rent a bike, or have a picnic.

Step 3: Explore Santiago’s Neighborhoods

Santiago is also known for its vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm. Here are a few neighborhoods worth exploring:

1. Bellavista

Bellavista is Santiago’s bohemian neighborhood and a hub for arts and culture. Visitors can explore the colorful streets filled with street art, visit the Pablo Neruda Museum or enjoy a meal in one of the many restaurants.

2. Lastarria

Lastarria is a charming neighborhood that is home to many museums, galleries, and restaurants. Visitors can walk through the narrow streets, visit the Museum of Fine Arts, or have a cup of coffee at one of the trendy cafes.

3. Barrio Italia

Barrio Italia is a trendy neighborhood that is known for its vintage shops, cafes, and restaurants. Visitors can browse through the antique shops, enjoy a coffee, or have a meal in one of the many restaurants.

Step 4: Try Santiago’s Food and Drink Scene

Santiago has a diverse food and drink scene that is worth exploring. Here are some of the foods and drinks that you must try:

1. Chilean Wine

Chile is known for its excellent wines, and Santiago is no exception. Visitors can take a wine tour or visit a local winery to taste some of the best wines in the country.

2. Empanadas

Empanadas are a popular Chilean snack that can be found in many street food stalls or restaurants. They are a type of pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.

3. Asado

Asado is a Chilean barbecue dish that is made with beef, chicken, or pork. It is usually served with different types of salads and bread.

Step 5: Enjoy Santiago’s Nightlife

Santiago has a vibrant nightlife scene that is worth exploring. Here are some of the things that you can do:

1. Visit a Bar or Club

Santiago has plenty of bars and clubs that offer live music, dancing, and drinks. Some of the popular neighborhoods for nightlife include Bellavista and Barrio Brasil.

2. Go to a Theater

Santiago is home to many theaters that showcase plays, concerts, and other performances. Visitors can watch a show at the Municipal Theater or the Teatro NESCAFÉ de las Artes.

3. Watch a Movie

Santiago has many movie theaters that show both international and Chilean films. Visitors can watch a movie at the Cine Hoyts or the Cinemark.

Book Your Tour Now

Santiago is a city that offers something for everyone. By following this step-by-step guide, you can make the most of your time as a tourist in Santiago. Remember to plan your itinerary ahead of time, explore the different neighborhoods, try the local food and drink, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.