Portillo & Laguna del Inca with Lunch at the Hotel Portillo

Exploring Portillo & Laguna del Inca with Lunch at the Hotel Portillo

If you’re looking to escape the city and soak in some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery near Santiago, this full-day tour is a stellar choice. For $132 per person, you’ll spend around 10 hours exploring some of Chile’s most iconic sights—ranging from the rugged Aconcagua River at Salto del Soldado to the famous Portillo Ski Center with its spectacular lagoon. The journey is led by a bilingual guide, with options to start from several locations in Santiago, making it flexible for different plans.

What we love about this tour is how it combines easy transportation with a well-curated itinerary that balances scenic stops with enough free time to explore. The highlight for many is the view of Laguna del Inca—a vivid blue lake framed by snow-capped peaks. We also appreciate the inclusion of a traditional Chilean lunch at the renowned Portillo Hotel, which adds a touch of comfort and local flavor.

A potential consideration is the long day, which can be tiring if you’re not used to early starts or bus trips. Also, this tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility issues, given the walking involved at certain stops. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience packed with stunning vistas and cultural insights—especially if you’re eager to see South America’s most famous mountain scenery without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Key Points

Stunning Views: Expect panoramic vistas of snow-covered mountains and the iconic Laguna del Inca.
Expert Guide: A knowledgeable bilingual guide enhances the trip with local stories and insights.
Comfortable Transportation: Round-trip transfers in an air-conditioned bus make for a relaxed journey.
Flexible Stops: Includes scenic viewpoints like Salto del Soldado and the border crossing, with plenty of photo opportunities.
Hearty Lunch: Enjoy a well-organized meal at Hotel Portillo, a highlight for many.
Limited for Mobility: Not ideal for travelers with mobility restrictions due to walking at some stops.

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A Deeper Look at the Experience

Starting Off: Convenient Departure Points and Early Morning Ride

The tour begins with multiple meeting points around Santiago, including notable areas like Av. Pdte. Kennedy and Encomenderos. This flexibility means you can choose a location that’s most convenient for you. Once everyone assembles, you’ll hop into an air-conditioned bus, ready for a scenic drive that lasts about an hour before reaching the first notable stop.

The ride itself is comfortable, and during this time, your guide will likely set the stage with some background about the region and what you can expect. The bus’s large windows are perfect for catching glimpses of the changing landscape as you leave the city behind.

Chacabuco Victory Monument: A Brief Scenic Stop

The first quick stop at the Chacabuco Victory Monument offers a chance to see a historic site from outside the bus. It’s a brief pass-by, but a good opportunity to learn about Chilean history if you’re interested. It also helps stretch your legs before the next leg of the journey.

Salto del Soldado: The Legendary Viewpoint

One of the true highlights is the stop at Salto del Soldado, a rocky viewpoint where the Aconcagua River flows. Legend has it that a patriotic soldier made a daring leap here to escape pursuers, hence the name. The scenery is striking—rock formations framing the rushing river below.

You’ll have about 30 minutes here for photos and to soak in the views. Our favorite part is how the guide shared the story behind the name, adding a layer of local legend to the natural beauty. This stop often impresses visitors with its rugged charm, natural geomorphology, and the sense of history that permeates the landscape.

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Crossing the Andes: Paso Internacional Los Libertadores

Next, you’ll cross the border into Argentina, passing through the Paso Internacional Los Libertadores. This border crossing is part of the adventure, and the scenic views along the way make it worthwhile. You’ll walk around the area for about 30 minutes, taking in the mountain scenery and perhaps grabbing a quick photo or two.

The Star of the Day: Portillo Ski Center & Laguna del Inca

The heart of the tour is the Portillo Ski Center, one of South America’s oldest and most famous winter resorts. Even if you’re not planning to ski, the site is well worth the visit. Here, you’ll have around two hours to enjoy the stunning surroundings, explore the grounds, and, of course, admire the Laguna del Inca.

This lagoon is a highlight for many—its vivid blue waters shimmering against the snow and rocky peaks. In the winter months, it’s a picture-perfect scene that looks like a postcard, but it’s equally mesmerizing in summer. Many visitors comment on how the colors seem almost surreal, and it’s the perfect spot for photos.

Lunch at Hotel Portillo: A Chilean Classic

A key feature of this tour is the included lunch at Hotel Portillo. Many reviewers, including Yinong, mentioned how tasty and satisfying the meal was, adding to the overall value of the trip. The hotel itself is a historic and iconic building, and eating there feels like a small slice of Chilean mountain culture.

Ventisquero Guardia Vieja and Scenic Return

After lunch, the group heads to Ventisquero Guardia Vieja for a quick break and more incredible views. This spot offers yet another perspective on the surrounding mountains and glaciers. It also provides time for a brief walk and some photo opportunities before returning to the bus.

The return journey is roughly two hours, giving you time to relax, reflect on the day, and enjoy the scenery passing by. Some travelers enjoy a bit of the local wine on the bus, rounding out the experience nicely.

Drop-off Points and Final Thoughts

The tour concludes back at your original pick-up points, with convenient drop-offs at locations like Monjitas and Encomenderos. The trip is well-paced, with enough stops to avoid feeling rushed but not so many that it drags.

Authentic Insights from Real Travelers

One reviewer raved about their guide, Jaime, saying, “Our Guide Jaime is extremely knowledgeable about the history of Chile and the areas we visited. He went out to cater to the needs of everyone.” It’s clear that having an informed and friendly guide makes a big difference in how much you enjoy the trip.

Another visitor highlighted the stunning views of the lagoon and the delicious lunch, noting how these elements made their day memorable. The inclusion of a scenic drive, cultural stops, and a hearty meal truly makes this tour feel like a well-rounded experience.

Why This Tour Offers Genuine Value

The price of $132 might seem modest for a full-day tour, especially considering the inclusion of transportation, a guide, and a meal. Keep in mind, the value lies in the convenience—avoiding the hassle of renting a car or navigating border crossings—and the chance to see some of South America’s most photogenic landscapes with expert guidance.

The tour is particularly good for those who appreciate scenic vistas, love learning about local stories, and prefer a relaxed, guided approach. It’s also well-suited for travelers who don’t mind a long day of bus travel in exchange for a comprehensive snapshot of the region’s natural beauty.

The Sum Up

This Portillo & Laguna del Inca tour offers an engaging mix of natural beauty, cultural storytelling, and comfortable logistics. You’ll love the spectacular views of the lagoon and mountains, especially with a guide who knows how to share their stories with enthusiasm and insight. The included lunch at the iconic Hotel Portillo makes the experience feel complete, offering a taste of local hospitality amid stunning surroundings.

However, be prepared for a full day on the road, and consider your mobility—this tour isn’t ideal if you find walking challenging. It’s perfect for those who want a guided, scenic adventure that balances sightseeing, history, and a touch of luxury.

In the end, if you’re eager to see Chile’s striking mountain landscapes without the stress of planning, this tour delivers a solid, memorable experience—great for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, including travel, sightseeing stops, and lunch.

What are the starting points?
There are multiple pick-up locations in Santiago, including Av. Sta. María, Av. Kennedy, Monjitas, and Encomenderos, offering flexibility.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the round-trip transfer is in an air-conditioned bus designed for a relaxed journey.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, gloves, warm shoes, passport or ID, warm clothing, a scarf, sunscreen, and a hat to prepare for mountain weather.

Do I need to pay extra for tickets or equipment?
No, the tour price includes transportation and guiding, but optional activities like ski tickets or equipment are not included.

Can children join?
The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, and the focus is more on scenery and walking, so check with the operator for age restrictions.

Is there a cancelation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Portuguese, Spanish, and English to accommodate diverse travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby