Experience the Maipo Valley Wine Tour from Santiago

If you’re looking to spend a full day exploring Chile’s renowned wine country without the hassle of planning, this Maipo Valley Wine Tour offers an immersive experience. For around $89, you’ll get the chance to visit four different wineries—ranging from small family-run farms to large, historic estates—all with expert guides. The tour lasts roughly 10 hours, includes hotel pickup, and features generous wine tastings at each stop, along with a pisco tasting.

What we love about this tour is how it balances quality and variety. The visits are carefully curated to give a real sense of local wine production, and the small-group setting means you’ll get plenty of individual attention from your guide. Plus, the scenic rural landscapes of Isla de Maipo add a peaceful backdrop to your wine adventures.

One thing to consider is that lunch is not included, so you’ll want to budget extra for that, especially since one of the wineries offers a well-rated restaurant. Also, the tour’s success relies on good weather—so check the forecast before booking.

This experience suits wine lovers, curious travelers eager to see a slice of Chile’s countryside, or anyone wanting a relaxed, informative day outside Santiago’s bustling city. The positive reviews show it’s especially popular among those who enjoy learning about winemaking while tasting excellent wines.

Key Points

Diverse wineries: From family-owned farms to large, historic estates, offering different perspectives on wine production.
Expert guides: Knowledgeable hosts enhance the experience with insights and engaging stories.
Scenic landscapes: Rolling vineyards and lush countryside provide beautiful photo opportunities.
Tastings included: Each vineyard offers multiple wine tastings, plus a pisco sample at the first stop.
Flexible add-ons: Lunch at TerraMater’s restaurant is optional but highly recommended.
Small group size: Typically no more than 15 travelers, fostering a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

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A Deep Dive into the Maipo Valley Wine Tour

The Planning and Transportation

Starting early at 7:30 am, the tour provides hotel pickup from central Santiago—whether your accommodation is in Downtown, Providencia, Las Condes, Vitacura, or Recoleta. If you’re outside these areas, you’ll be directed to the nearest pickup point. Travel is in an air-conditioned vehicle, making the long day comfortable even if Santiago’s weather turns warm or cool.

The small group size—up to 15 people—means you avoid the feeling of a rushed, crowded bus. We appreciated how the guides kept everyone engaged yet relaxed, making it easy to chat with fellow travelers. The trip flows smoothly, with each stop carefully timed to balance wine tasting, touring, and downtime.

First Stop: Campo La Quirinca

Your day kicks off at a family-run farm—Campo La Quirinca—around 8:30 am. This is a highlight for many travelers. It’s a chance to see Chile’s rural traditions firsthand: farm animals, alpacas, and various crops. The owners walk you through their agricultural practices, giving a real sense of local craftsmanship.

The tasting session here is special because it combines wine and pisco, Chile’s national spirit. Many reviews mention how friendly and knowledgeable the guides are—“We had a great trip with Pablo and Pepe! Our favorite was the first winery,” wrote one traveler—highlighting how this first stop sets a warm, authentic tone for the day.

Vina Santa Ema: Charm and Elegance

Next, around 10 am, you arrive at Vina Santa Ema. This charming winery offers a classic experience with tastings of three premium wines. The setting is beautiful, and the guide’s explanations help you understand the nuances of each wine. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the quality of wines, with one describing it as a “beautiful environment” to enjoy a tasting.

This stop balances small-scale charm with the amenities of a more established estate, giving insight into Chile’s wine industry without feeling touristy.

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Vina TerraMater and Lunch at Zinfandel

Around 12:30 pm, the group heads to Vina TerraMater, famous for award-winning olive oil—the most acclaimed in Chile and the world. Here, you can purchase cellar-priced olive oil if you wish, adding a flavorful souvenir to take home.

Lunchtime takes place at TerraMater’s Zinfandel restaurant, where you can enjoy a meal (at your own expense). The restaurant is praised for its delicious steaks and scenic views, making it a perfect spot to relax and refuel. Several travelers mention how much they appreciated having a proper sit-down meal as part of the experience.

The Historic Undurraga Winery

Your last stop is Vina Undurraga, one of the oldest wineries in Chile with over 130 years of tradition. This estate offers a comprehensive tour—gardens, vineyards, warehouses, and a wine barrel cellar—culminating in tastings of four premium wines.

Many reviews highlight the educational value of this visit, noting the chance to see a large-scale production facility and learn about the long history of Chilean wine. Guests also receive a wine glass keepsake, which many keep as a memento of an enjoyable day.

Final Drop-Off

You’ll finish around 6:00 pm, back at your Santiago hotel or Airbnb, feeling both relaxed and enlightened about Chile’s wine culture. The day’s pace is considered just right—not rushed, with enough time to appreciate each stop fully.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Value

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of authenticity and variety. The visits to family-run farms alongside bigger wineries give you a balanced perspective. Many reviews praise their guides, especially for sharing interesting stories and answering questions—“Pablo was a wealth of knowledge,” said one guest. This personal touch makes the experience much more memorable.

The wine tastings are generous, and many travelers find that the quality of wines exceeds expectations for the price. The inclusion of a pisco tasting at the beginning adds a uniquely Chilean flavor to the day.

The scenic countryside, with lush vineyards and rolling hills, enhances the experience—perfect for taking photos and savoring the peaceful vibe away from Santiago’s busy streets.

Price and Value

At just under $90, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the transportation, guided expertise, multiple tastings, and the small-group setting. The optional lunch at TerraMater’s restaurant is a worthwhile expense for many, providing a hearty meal and a relaxing break.

Considerations

A potential drawback is that lunch is not included—so you’ll need to plan for that. Also, since weather can impact the outdoor portions at the vineyards, checking the forecast is advised. Some guests mention that the vineyards have some steps or uneven ground, so travelers with mobility issues should inquire beforehand.

Who is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to taste a variety of Chilean wines in one day. It’s also suitable for curious travelers wanting a relaxed, educational trip outside Santiago. Families, couples, or friends will all find the small-group atmosphere friendly and engaging. If you appreciate scenic drives, authentic local stops, and well-organized tours, you’ll find this a great fit.

Final Thoughts

The Maipo Valley Wine Tour from Santiago offers a wonderful combination of scenic beauty, authentic wine experiences, and expert guiding. The diverse wineries ensure you’ll see different approaches to winemaking, while the tastings and scenery keep the day engaging.

Many travelers leave with not only memorable wines but also a richer understanding of Chile’s wine culture. This tour strikes a balance between quality and affordability and suits those who value authenticity, good company, and local stories over slick, commercialized experiences.

If you’re in Santiago and want a full day of learning, tasting, and enjoying, this tour is hard to beat—just be ready to sip, learn, and relax.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins with hotel pickup at 7:30 am in central Santiago, making it a full-day experience.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
While most travelers find it accessible, consider your mobility—some wineries may have steps or uneven ground. It’s best suited for adults who enjoy wine tasting and outdoor scenery.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking around wineries, some cash or card for lunch and souvenirs, and possibly a water bottle. A camera or smartphone for photos is a good idea.

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, wine tastings are included at each winery, plus a pisco tasting at the first stop.

Can I buy wine or olive oil during the tour?
Absolutely. The wineries and shop at TerraMater offer products for purchase, often at special cellar prices.

How long is the travel time between stops?
Travel between wineries is typically about 30-45 minutes, giving you scenic views and time to relax.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is at your own expense but is highly recommended at TerraMater’s restaurant, which many guests enjoy.

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

To sum it up, this Maipo Valley Wine Tour from Santiago offers a well-rounded, authentic look into Chile’s esteemed wine scene—perfect for those wanting an educational, scenic, and delicious day out. With knowledgeable guides, excellent wine selections, and scenic vistas, it’s a memorable way to spend a day outside the city, especially if you’re eager to taste some of the best wines Chile has to offer.