How to plan your Santiago Portillo and Laguna del Inca Day Trip with Picnic

Are you planning a trip to Santiago, Chile and want to visit the famous Portillo Ski Center and the stunning Inca Lagoon? This day trip is the perfect opportunity to explore the local history, legends and admire the natural beauty of the area. In this guide, we will show you how to plan your Santiago Portillo and Laguna del Inca Day Trip with Picnic.

Experience

This day trip will take you on a journey through the Los Libertadores highway, where you will visit the Chacabulco Monument, known for one of the most important episodes in the history of Chile. Along the way, you will pass the famous Autopista Caracoles with its winding roads. Once we arrive at the border with Argentina, you will have a chance to take a photo with the Welcome to Chile sign. Next, the tour will take you to the Portillo Ski Center, where you will have the opportunity to explore the ski resort and learn about its history. After visiting the Portillo Ski Center, the tour will continue to the stunning Inca Lagoon, located between snow-capped mountains. The lagoon holds a beautiful story about an Inca king, and you can enjoy the most beautiful views of the lagoon right from the shore. Lastly, the tour includes a picnic in the mountains, giving you a chance to enjoy the local cuisine and take in the breathtaking natural surroundings.

Highlights

Here are some of the highlights of the Santiago Portillo and Laguna del Inca Day Trip with Picnic:

1. Learn about the local history and legends
2. Visit snow-capped mountains (in the winter, not in the summer)
3. Enjoy the most beautiful views of Inca Lagoon
4. Visit the border with Argentina
5. Participate in a picnic in the mountains

Full Description

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel in a van. You will head north of the city of Santiago along the Los Libertadores highway until the first stop at the Chacabulco Monument, known for its importance in the history of Chile. Afterward, you will pass through the famous Autopista Caracoles, known for its winding roads, before arriving at the border with Argentina. Here, you will have an opportunity to take photos with the Welcome to Chile sign. Next, the tour will take you to the Portillo Ski Center, where you will have some time to explore the ski resort and learn about its history. After visiting the Portillo Ski Center, the tour will continue to the stunning Inca Lagoon, located between snow-capped mountains. The tour guide will tell you the story of an Inca king, making the lagoon even more special. You will enjoy the most beautiful views of the lagoon right from the shore. Finally, the tour includes a picnic in the mountains. You will have a chance to enjoy the local cuisine and take in the breathtaking natural surroundings of the area. The tour will then end with a van ride back to your hotel.

Book the Tour here

If you are interested in booking the Santiago Portillo and Laguna del Inca Day Trip with Picnic, you can visit the following link: book the tour here Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore the natural beauty, history, and legends of Santiago, Chile.

FAQ about Santiago

1. What is Santiago?

Santiago is the capital and largest city of Chile. It’s located in the central part of the country, surrounded by the Andes Mountains to the east and the Chilean Coastal Range to the west. Santiago is the political, cultural and financial center of Chile, and attracts millions of tourists every year due to its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and natural beauty. It’s also known for its excellent wine and food, making it a popular destination for foodies.

2. What language is spoken in Santiago?

The official language of Santiago, and the whole of Chile, is Spanish. However, English is also widely spoken in many areas of Santiago, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.

3. What is the best time to visit Santiago?

The best time to visit Santiago is during the fall (March to May) or spring (September to November). During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, with less rainfall than in other seasons. Summers (December to February) can be hot and dry, while winters (June to August) can be cold and rainy. However, winter is also the time when you can see the snow-capped Andes Mountains in all their glory.

4. What are the must-visit attractions in Santiago?

There are several must-visit attractions in Santiago, including:

1. The historic center of Santiago, where you can find many iconic landmarks such as the Plaza de Armas, Palacio de La Moneda, and Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral.
2. The Cerro San Cristobal and Cerro Santa Lucia hills, both of which offer stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.
3. The Central Market, a food lover’s paradise where you can find fresh seafood and traditional Chilean dishes.
4. The Parque Bicentenario, a beautiful park with a lake, walking trails, and sculptures.
5. The Chilean National Museum of Fine Arts, which contains a vast collection of Chilean art from the colonial period to the present day.

5. How do I get around Santiago?

Santiago has an extensive public transportation system, which includes buses, trains, and a metro system. The metro is the most reliable, affordable, and convenient way to get around the city, as it covers most of the city’s main attractions and neighborhoods. Taxis and Ubers are also available, but they can be more expensive than public transportation.

6. Is Santiago a safe city?

Like any city, Santiago has its share of crime and safety concerns. However, it’s generally considered safe for tourists and visitors, especially in tourist areas and during daylight hours. However, it’s always a good idea to take precautions such as avoiding dark and secluded areas at night, not carrying large amounts of cash, and keeping your personal belongings close to you at all times.

7. What is the currency in Santiago?

The currency in Santiago and the rest of Chile is the Chilean peso. ATMs are easily available throughout the city, and many places accept credit cards. However, it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially when visiting local markets and small shops.

8. What is the food like in Santiago?

The food in Santiago is diverse and delicious, with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood, grilled meats, and locally grown fruits and vegetables. Some of the must-try dishes in Santiago include empanadas (meat or cheese-filled pastries), asado (grilled meat), ceviche (marinated raw seafood), and pastel de choclo (a traditional corn and meat pie). Santiago is also known for its excellent wine, with many nearby vineyards offering tours and tastings.

9. Is there any dress code I should be aware of in Santiago?

Santiago is a modern and cosmopolitan city, and there are no strict dress codes for tourists. However, it’s always a good idea to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious or cultural sites. During the summer months, light and comfortable clothing is recommended, while warmer clothing is recommended during the winter months.

10. What are some useful phrases in Spanish that I should know?

It’s always helpful to know some basic Spanish phrases when traveling in Santiago. Here are a few useful ones:

• “Hola” – Hello
• “Gracias” – Thank you
• “Por favor” – Please
• “Buenos días” – Good morning
• “Adiós” – Goodbye
• “¿Dónde está…?” – Where is…?
• “No hablo español” – I don’t speak Spanish

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Santiago is an amazing city with a rich culture and history, stunning natural beauty, delicious food and wine, and friendly locals. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s historic landmarks, hiking in the mountains, or simply enjoying the local cuisine and nightlife, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city. With this FAQ, we hope we’ve helped answer some of your questions and provided you with useful information to help you plan your trip to Santiago.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Santiago

Santiago is a beautiful city with lots of different things to see and do. If you’re visiting Santiago as a tourist, it can be a bit overwhelming trying to figure out what to do first. But fear not! This guide will help you plan your trip so you can make the most of your time in this vibrant city.

1. Visit Cerro San Cristobal

One of the top attractions in Santiago is Cerro San Cristobal, a hill that towers above the city. There’s a funicular that takes visitors to the top, where they can enjoy stunning views of Santiago and the Andes Mountains. Once you’re at the top, you can also visit the iconic statue of the Virgin Mary and a lovely botanical garden.

2. Explore Bellavista

Bellavista is a trendy neighborhood in Santiago with lots of streets filled with colorful houses and street art. It’s perfect for those looking for good food, drinks, and nightlife. In Bellavista you’ll find the famous La Chascona, the former home of famed Chilean poet Pablo Neruda.

3. Learn about Chile’s history at La Moneda Palace

La Moneda Palace is the seat of the President of Chile and also the location of the country’s changing of the guard ceremony. It’s also an important part of Chile’s history, as it was the site of the 1973 coup that overthrew President Salvador Allende. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace and learn more about Chile’s history.

4. Taste delicious Chilean wine

Chile is famous for its wine, and there are plenty of wineries near Santiago that offer tours and tastings. The Casablanca Valley, just an hour outside of the city, is known for its white wines, while the Maipo Valley, closer to the city, is known for its reds. Enjoy a day trip to one of these valleys and taste some of Chile’s best wines!

5. Visit the Museum of Memory and Human Rights

The Museum of Memory and Human Rights is a must-visit museum in Santiago. It’s a tribute to the victims of the human rights violations that occurred during the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet from 1973 to 1990. The museum features exhibits that tell the stories of the victims and survivors, and helps visitors understand the horrific events that occurred in Chile’s recent history.

6. Take a walk around Plaza de Armas

Plaza de Armas is the main square in Santiago and is surrounded by important buildings like the Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago and the Central Post Office. It’s a lively square with street performers and vendors, and it’s a great place to people-watch and take in the city’s energy.

7. Sample Chilean cuisine

Sampling Chilean cuisine is a must-do while in Santiago. Some popular dishes include empanadas, pastel de choclo (a meat and corn casserole), and completo (a hot dog with avocados and mayonnaise). For dessert, try some alfajores (cookies filled with dulce de leche) or mote con huesillo (a sweet drink made from dried peaches, mote – a type of grain, cinnamon, and sugar).

Book Your Tour Now

Santiago is a city with lots to see and do, and these are just a few of the many attractions and activities available to tourists. Whether you’re interested in history, food, or just soaking up the city’s atmosphere, Santiago has something for everyone. By following this guide, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable trip to one of South America’s most vibrant cities.