Penguins,Sea lions,Sand Boarding,Paragliding Chilean food &drinks

This tour combines everything we love about Chile’s diverse landscape into one memorable day. Starting from Santiago, it takes you through coastal towns like Valparaiso, Viña del Mar, and Concon, leading to encounters with Humboldt Penguins and sea lions in their natural habitat, exhilarating sandboarding on Concon Dunes, and even paragliding over the Pacific. The entire experience is led by an enthusiastic guide, with smooth, air-conditioned transport, and a generous taste of Chilean culture and cuisine.

Two things we especially appreciate are the variety of experiences in one day, from wildlife viewing to outdoor sports, and the local flavor of the included picnic and drinks—nothing beats tasting Chilean empanadas and sipping Pisco sour amid stunning scenery. However, a word of caution: the day can be long, and some activities depend on weather conditions, so being prepared for an active, outdoor schedule is smart.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a mix of wildlife, scenery, and local food without feeling rushed. It’s perfect if you’re eager to see iconic Chilean sights and enjoy some fun outdoor activities, all wrapped into one affordable package.

Key Points

• Diverse Experiences: Wildlife, sandboarding, paragliding, and cultural tastes in one day.
• Wildlife Encounters: Close-up views of penguins and sea lions in natural surroundings.
• Scenic Stops: Coastal towns, volcanic rocks, and impressive dunes for great photo opportunities.
• Local Flavors: Chilean picnic with empanadas, wine, and Pisco sour to enrich your cultural understanding.
• Comfort & Convenience: Small group size, air-conditioned vehicle, and included equipment.
• Weather & Length: Expect a full day of outdoor activity, with potential weather impacts and a duration of 9 to 13 hours.

Starting early from Santiago, this tour offers a balanced mix of coastal sightseeing, wildlife, adventure, and Chilean cuisine. The day begins with a pickup (if included in your package), and depending on your starting point, you’ll either head directly to Valparaiso or begin in Santiago. The small group size—often just a handful of travelers—means a more personalized experience, allowing the guide to tailor the day and answer questions along the way.

The Coastal Towns and Their Charms

Your first stops include passing through Valparaiso and Viña del Mar, where you get an immediate contrast: Valparaiso’s vibrant, artsy streets versus Viña del Mar’s polished beaches. Even a quick 20-minute drive provides a glimpse into different facets of Chile’s coastal culture. Many reviews mention how this introduction sets the tone, with Heather noting, “We saw penguins and they were so cute!” giving a hint of how wildlife viewing punctuates the day.

Wildlife Encounters at Zapallar and Beyond

One of the highlights is the boat ride from Zapallar, a well-heeled beach town favored by Chilean elites and politicians, to see Humboldt Penguins. The boat trip, lasting about an hour, is included, and you’ll likely get close enough to observe the penguins, pelicans, and sea lions in their natural habitat. As one traveler reported, “The boat got quite close to the penguins,” which can be quite thrilling for animal lovers. The natural setting, away from zoos, makes these sightings particularly special—seeing animals in the wild has a certain authenticity that zoo visits can’t match.

Sandboarding on Concon Dunes

After wildlife, the tour shifts to more active pursuits—sandboarding on the towering Concon Dunes. We loved the way the guides provided all necessary equipment, including sandboards and binoculars, making the activity accessible for newcomers and seasoned thrill-seekers alike. Sliding down the dunes offers endless fun, whether standing or sitting, with views that stretch endlessly across the coastline. The dunes provide a stark but beautiful contrast to the lush green and volcanic rocks seen earlier. As one review emphasized, “The sandboarding was fun and the paRead more,” highlighting how much fun this part of the day can be.

Paragliding and Chilean Picnic at Maitencillo

Perched atop a cliff at Vuelos Parapente in Maitencillo, the experience of lunch with a view of the Pacific is a real treat. The setting at a paragliding school offers both a chance to relax and marvel at the scenery or, for the daring, try paragliding for an extra fee. Watching pilots lift off as you enjoy Chilean empanadas, fresh fruits, and Pisco sours makes this stop special. Many travelers, including Angela, called it “the best tour of our trip,” citing the delicious food and stunning vistas.

The Dunes and Final Return

The last adventure takes you to Concon Dunes, where you can slide down the sandy slopes again and soak in the panoramic views. It’s a perfect way to end the day—active, scenic, and memorable. Afterward, you’ll be driven back to Valparaiso or Santiago, depending on your pickup arrangements, often with a feeling of having experienced a true slice of coastal Chile.

This tour offers exceptional value because it bundles so many highlights into one day. The wildlife viewing—penguins and sea lions—is especially appreciated, with reviews like Galina’s praising the “captivating view” of animals in the wild. The inclusion of local Chilean food and drinks, like empanadas and Pisco sour, adds a cultural touch that elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing.

The guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude come through in reviews. Many travelers praise their guides for being patient, humorous, and eager to create a memorable day. The small group size (max five travelers) ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

However, the day is quite packed and outdoors, so weather can influence some activities, especially paragliding. It’s wise to be prepared for a full day of activity, with comfortable shoes and sun protection.

This experience suits adventurous travelers who like wildlife, outdoor sports, and exploring off-the-beaten-path spots, as well as those eager to taste Chilean culture in a relaxed setting. It’s especially good if you want a comprehensive day that mixes nature, culture, and fun.

The tour includes pickup in Santiago or Valparaiso, depending on your arrangements, and uses a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. The group is small, often just five travelers, which enhances both safety and interaction. The cost is $0.00, meaning it’s likely included in a package or promotion, but always verify what’s included to avoid surprises.

All necessary equipment, like binoculars and sandboards, are provided, so you don’t need to bring your own. The lunch is a generous Chilean picnic, with traditional foods and an option to indulge in local wines and Pisco sour, making the experience both enjoyable and authentic.

Regarding timing, expect the full experience to last approximately 9 to 13 hours, so it’s best to be prepared for a long day with plenty of outdoor activity.

This tour is a fantastic pick for outdoor lovers and animal enthusiasts who want a comprehensive glimpse of Chile’s coast without multiple bookings. It’s perfect for those who enjoy adventure sports like sandboarding, and anyone keen to sample local cuisine amid breathtaking scenery. The friendly guides, small-group format, and diverse activities make it a travel experience that feels both immersive and manageable.

It’s also a good choice for families or couples looking for a full-day adventure that combines wildlife, fun, and cultural tastes. Just be ready for a full day outside, and check weather conditions if you’re pondering the paragliding option.

In essence, this tour delivers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Chile’s coast—wildlife, adventure, and flavor, all in one memorable package.

Is pickup included in the tour?
Pickup is offered, either directly in Santiago or Valparaiso, depending on your location and arrangements. Confirm with your booking.

How long does the tour last?
Expect the tour to run between 9 and 13 hours, making it a full-day adventure.

Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
While the boat ride is designed for close-up views of penguins, sea lions, and pelicans, wildlife can never be guaranteed. However, many travelers report successful sightings.

What equipment is supplied for activities?
All necessary gear, including binoculars and sandboards, is provided, so you don’t need to bring your own.

Can I try paragliding?
Yes, paragliding is available at an additional cost. The site has professional instructors, and many enjoy watching or trying it themselves.

What about food and drinks?
A Chilean picnic lunch with empanadas, fruits, nuts, and drinks like wine and Pisco sour is included. Alcoholic beverages are served at the picnic spot.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but the full-day outdoor schedule might be tiring for very young children or less active older adults.

Do I need special clothing?
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes for walking and sandboarding. Sunscreen is recommended, though not included.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people will be on the tour?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 5 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

This detailed look at the Penguins, Sea Lions, Sand Boarding, Paragliding, and Chilean Food tour reveals an experience packed with adventure, wildlife, and cultural flavor. Whether you’re a nature lover, thrill-seeker, or simply eager to enjoy a full day exploring Chile’s coast, this tour offers genuine value and unforgettable memories.