Discover the Andes with a Day in the Mountains, Vineyard, and Lagoon

If you’re looking for a way to see the spectacular scenery of the Andes without sacrificing comfort or authenticity, this full-day tour from Santiago offers an excellent blend of nature, culture, and wine. For roughly $79 per person, you’ll traverse a series of scenic stops, including the Inca Lagoon, Portillo ski resort, and In Situ Vineyard—all with knowledgeable guides leading the way.

What we love about this experience is how it balances breathtaking landscapes with delightful local food and wine, giving you a genuine taste of the region’s beauty and flavor. The high-altitude vineyard and the iconic Caracoles road are particular highlights. The only possible drawback is that the drive can be quite lengthy—around 10 hours—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with long bus rides and early mornings.

This tour is perfect for nature lovers, wine enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see the diverse landscapes of the Andes in a single day. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a small group experience with expert guides, offering both insider stories and plenty of picture-perfect moments.

Key Points

Spectacular scenery from high-altitude roads to turquoise lagoons.
Expert guides enhance the experience with local stories and tailored attention.
Wine tasting at In Situ offers a taste of Chile’s renowned vineyards with stunning views.
Long but scenic drive, perfect for those who enjoy a good road trip with memorable stops.
Good value, combining transportation, guide, wine, and multiple scenic stops for the price.
Authentic experience with plenty of photo opportunities and local flavor.

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A Detailed Look at the Andes Range Tour

Starting the Day: Early Pickup and Scenic Drive

Your adventure kicks off at 7:30 am, with hotel pickup that covers Santiago’s central areas. As you settle into your air-conditioned vehicle, expect a long but comfortable journey—around 10 hours total—meant to maximize your time enjoying the sights rather than counting hours. The drive itself is part of the experience, offering glimpses into Chilean countryside and the distant peaks of the Andes.

Technical Stop at Copec

About 20 minutes into your trip, a quick stop at a Copec station lets you stock up on water, coffee, or snacks. This is a good time to stretch your legs and get ready for the next leg. It’s a free stop, so no worries about missing out.

Watching the Highest Peak: Aconcagua

Next, you’ll pass the Autopista los Libertadores, where on clear days you might catch a glimpse of Aconcagua, the tallest mountain in South America. It’s a brief 15-minute stop, but a perfect photo opportunity and a reminder of the grandeur of the Andean landscape.

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Vineyard Visit at In Situ

One of the trip’s highlights is a stop at the In Situ Family Vineyard, located at an impressive altitude. Here, you’ll stroll through the beautiful outdoor space, soaking in the panoramic views of the Andes. The wine tasting, included in the tour, is not just about the wine but about experiencing it amidst the mountain scenery. Travelers praise the local wines and the charming outdoor setting, making this a favorite moment for many.

A reviewer mentions that the guide Hector made this part especially memorable by bringing raisins and chips to snack on, even though they’re not usually a fan of raisins. These small touches show the level of care and personalization that guides like Hector bring.

The Road to the Andes: Caracoles Road and the Portillo

From the vineyard, the journey continues on Los Caracoles, famous for its 30 sharp curves climbing up to 3,000 meters altitude. Here, you’ll have another brief stop for photos and to marvel at the engineering of this iconic mountain road. Reviews highlight the spectacular views and the chance to snap some pictures of winding roads amid towering peaks.

Next comes the Inca Lagoon, your final destination. This stunning turquoise lake is a true highlight, with plenty of time to explore and enjoy a lunch at the Portillo Hotel restaurant. Many travelers mention being captivated by the beauty of the lagoon, with one noting they “left this place feeling like they’d just stepped into a postcard.”

Portillo Ski Resort and the Legend

A short stop at Portillo, South America’s oldest ski resort, offers a dose of history, as it’s been visited by celebrities from around the world. Though some reviews mention that Portillo staff can be brusque, the site itself provides fantastic photo ops and a chance to appreciate the mountain resort’s storied past.

Llamas, Snacks, and Stories

On the way back, a stop at Ventisquero Guardia Vieja gives you the chance to taste Chilean empanadas and see a charming llama farm. It’s a great photo opportunity and a chance to try a local snack before heading to the canyon viewpoint.

Salto del Soldado and Return to Santiago

The tour wraps up with a visit to Salto del Soldado, a dramatic canyon named after a legendary soldier’s daring jump. It’s a quick stop but one that leaves a lasting impression of the erosion and natural forces shaping the Andes.

You’ll return to Santiago around 5:30-6:00 pm, tired but enriched by a full day of scenery, stories, and new tastes.

What Sets This Tour Apart

This experience is a wonderful mix of scenic drives, cultural insights, and local tastes. The guides consistently receive praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and attention to detail—making the long drive feel engaging rather than tiresome. The wine tasting at In Situ, with its beautiful mountain backdrop, offers real value—combining gastronomy with scenery.

While the price might seem modest for a full-day trip, the included guidance, transportation, and tasting make it an excellent deal. The tour’s small group size (up to 15 travelers) ensures a more personal experience, and the pickup from your hotel simplifies logistics.

However, the long drive might not suit everyone, especially those less tolerant of lengthy bus rides. Also, weather can impact certain stops, like the Aconcagua view, but guides are usually flexible in offering alternatives.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is best for adventure seekers who enjoy scenic drives and natural beauty. Wine lovers will appreciate the mountain vineyard experience, especially because it’s paired with spectacular views. It’s also ideal for those who prefer small group tours with knowledgeable guides who share stories and local insights. Travelers who don’t mind a full day on the road will find this both worthwhile and enriching.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel or Airbnb in Santiago’s central areas.

How long is the total trip?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, so expect to be on the bus for a good part of the day, but with frequent stops to enjoy each location.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation, a guided tour, wine tasting at In Situ, an empanada snack, and admission to stops like Laguna del Inca and Ventisquero Guardia Vieja.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, a jacket for higher altitudes, and maybe a camera for all those picture-perfect moments.

Is there a minimum number of travelers?
Yes, the tour requires at least 4 people to operate. Small group size means more personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

For those craving a full-day adventure that combines the beauty of the Andes, the flavor of Chilean wine, and some iconic sights like Inca Lagoon and Portillo, this tour offers great value. The expert guides and scenic stops turn a long bus ride into a series of memorable moments. While the drive can be long, the scenery and experiences are often described as worth every minute.

This tour suits nature and wine enthusiasts equally, and those who love taking photos of mountain vistas. It’s ideal if you want a balanced blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation in a small-group setting. Just be prepared for an early start and a full day, and you’re likely to come away with beautiful memories—and some excellent Chilean wines.