Full Day Trip to Isla Negra, Pomaire & Undurraga Vineyard – Small Group

Experience the Charm of Chile on a Full Day Trip to Isla Negra, Pomaire & Undurraga Vineyard

Imagine a day spent exploring some of Chile’s most iconic sights, all comfortably arranged for you with a small group. This tour whisks you from Santiago’s bustling streets to the scenic coast and charming countryside—visiting the legendary Isla Negra, the artisanal town of Pomaire, and the historic Undurraga Vineyard. At $135 per person, for around 8 hours, it offers a well-balanced taste of culture, history, and wine—perfect for travelers who want a mix of storytelling, hands-on experiences, and stunning scenery.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the personalized touch provided by a small group size, and the chance to visit Pablo Neruda’s captivating house—a highlight that can be tricky to reach independently. The second standout is the wine tasting at Undurraga, which is not just about sipping wine but also learning about Chile’s long-standing wine tradition from knowledgeable guides.

One thing to keep in mind is that the entrance fee to Neruda’s house isn’t included in the tour price, so be prepared for an additional cost of around $10,000 Chilean pesos if you choose to explore the museum. Also, since most of the day involves driving and sightseeing, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full schedule.

If you’re a traveler who loves cultural stories, scenic views, and sampling local wines, this trip offers a well-rounded experience that captures a slice of Chile’s allure. It’s especially ideal if you prefer having logistics handled, want to learn from experts, and enjoy small-group intimacy for a more engaging day.

Key Points

• Convenient logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off make the day hassle-free.
• Comfortable travel: An air-conditioned minivan ensures a relaxing journey.
• Authentic insights: Guides share detailed local history and culture.
• Flexible options: Visit Neruda’s house museum (entrance fee extra) at your leisure.
• Cultural and culinary highlights: Taste Chilean dishes in Pomaire and enjoy renowned wine at Undurraga.
• Small-group intimacy: Max 14 travelers for a more personal experience.

A Deep Dive into the Full Day Experience

This tour is designed to give you a broad yet intimate taste of Chile’s coastal culture, historical figures, and wine-making traditions. Starting early at 7:30am from Providencia, you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan that takes you southward, away from Santiago’s urban rhythm, into a landscape that varies from coastlines to rolling hills.

Isla Negra: Pablo Neruda’s Coastal Retreat

Your first stop is Isla Negra, the setting of one of poet Pablo Neruda’s most famous houses. Neruda’s ocean-facing home is more than just a museum; it’s a reflection of his love for the sea and his eclectic collection of artifacts. Visitors can roam through rooms filled with personal belongings, quirky collections, and Neruda’s poetry—if you choose to tour the house (cost approx. $10,000 Chilean pesos).

The house’s location is spectacular, with sweeping views of the Pacific, and the gardens feature sculptures and objects Neruda loved. One reviewer describes it as “a view very beautiful,” emphasizing the visual impact of the setting. We loved the way the house feels like a living museum — a personal space that offers insight into Neruda’s creative world.

The approximately one-hour visit can be a highlight for literary fans or anyone interested in Chilean culture. If you’re short on time or budget, you can explore the exterior and gardens for free, enjoying the scenery and taking photos of the rugged coastline.

Pomaire: A Pottery and Culinary Gem

Next, the tour takes you to Pomaire, a tiny town famous for its pottery artisans. It’s a place where old traditions meet modern crafts, with shops lining Roberto Bravo street selling handmade ceramics. The reddish, shiny pottery is distinctive, and you’ll see artisans shaping clay right in their workshops—an authentic glimpse of Chilean folk art.

This town’s pottery tradition predates Spanish arrival, making it a cultural treasure. You’ll find everything from decorative vases to piggy banks called “chanchitos,” believed to bring luck—a feature highlighted in reviews, with visitors noting the “great talent” for clay crafts.

Beyond crafts, Pomaire offers local Chilean cuisine, with eateries serving classics such as pastel de choclo and empanadas. For a quick authentic snack or meal, this stop provides an excellent opportunity to taste local flavors. It’s a very brief stop—just two minutes in the itinerary—but enough to soak in the artisanal atmosphere and snap some photos.

Some reviews mention that Pomaire might not be the main focus of the tour and that it’s more about the crafts and food, but the charm of this small town remains undeniable. If you’re into authentic, hands-on culture and local food, you’ll appreciate this stop.

Undurraga Vineyard: Chilean Wine at Its Best

The final stop is Viña Undurraga, founded in 1885, making it one of Chile’s oldest wineries. This visit includes a tour of the vineyard and wine tasting of three different wines, giving you a taste of Chile’s renowned wine industry. The guides are described as “very pleasant,” and this part of the tour is a highlight for many.

You’ll learn how Undurraga manages 1,700 hectares across several valleys, producing approximately 13.5 million liters of wine annually. The tasting offers a chance to appreciate the variety and quality of Chilean wines, especially if you’re a wine enthusiast. It’s a good value, considering the tour and tasting are included in the $135 price.

The vineyard tour not only shows you the vineyards but also explains the winemaking process, adding depth to your tasting experience. This stop is ideal for those interested in the production side of wine and looking for a relaxed, scenic setting to enjoy a drink.

Transportation, Group Size, and Overall Value

The tour’s small group size, capped at 14 travelers, means you’re unlikely to feel lost in a crowd. The minivan provides ample space and climate control, making the long drive comfortable. The duration of roughly 8 hours balances sightseeing with enough time at each stop for photos and exploration.

At $135, this tour offers solid value, especially considering that it includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided experience, and the wine tasting. The only additional costs are the entrance fee for Neruda’s house and any meals or souvenirs you choose to purchase.

What’s Not Included

While the tour covers most of the major highlights, remember that lunch is not included**, so plan to bring some snacks or plan to eat at Pomaire. Tips are also not included but appreciated if you enjoy the guide’s narration or service.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for those who want a comprehensive day of culture, scenic beauty, and gastronomy without the hassle of organizing transport and visits alone. It’s perfect for literature lovers, wine enthusiasts, or anyone eager to see Chile’s coastal charm in a relaxed setting. The guided aspect makes it ideal for travelers who appreciate storytelling and expert insights, especially since reviews praise guides like Ricardo and Connie for their knowledge.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or a solo adventurer who enjoys intimate group settings, this tour’s small size creates a more personal, engaging atmosphere. However, if you’re after a leisurely day or prefer self-guided visits, parts of this tour might feel rushed, especially the short Pomaire stop.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour to Isla Negra, Pomaire, and Undurraga Vineyard offers an enticing package of Chilean culture, history, and flavors. The combination of Neruda’s coastal home, the artisanal charm of Pomaire, and the scenic vineyard tasting makes for a memorable day with great value.

The guide’s expertise and small-group format elevate what might otherwise be a simple sightseeing trip. The highlights—especially the insights into Chilean literature and wine—make this an enriching experience for curious travelers.

While there’s a slight extra cost to visit Neruda’s house, the overall experience justifies it. This tour suits those who want a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural depth, and gastronomy—all arranged with comfort and ease. If you’re eager to explore Chile’s coast without the stress of planning, this trip provides an excellent, well-rounded introduction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Santiago, making logistics simple and convenient.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and better interaction with your guide.

Is the wine tasting part of the tour?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a guided tour and tasting of three wines at Viña Undurraga, included in the price.

Do I need to pay extra for Neruda’s house?
Yes, the entrance fee to the Isla Negra House Museum is not included and costs about $10,000 Chilean pesos.

What should I bring?
Bring some extra cash for the museum entrance, snacks or lunch, and camera gear for photos.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the full schedule and whether your children will enjoy the cultural and scenic stops.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
While not specified, the tour is likely most enjoyable in mild weather, avoiding Chile’s winter months if possible.

Can I customize the stops?
This is a guided tour with set stops, so customization isn’t usually available unless pre-arranged.

How do I book?
Booking can be done through Viator or directly via TAC Turismo, preferably 16 days in advance for availability.

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Chile’s coast, culture, and wine—perfect for curious travelers eager to see and learn in a relaxed, friendly setting.