Private Full Day Rafting and Wine From Santiago

Experience the Best of Chile in a Day: Rafting and Wine

If you’re looking to see a different side of Santiago, this private full-day tour offers a balanced mix of adrenaline and elegance. For $239 per person, you’ll spend approximately 8 hours exploring Cajon del Maipo, enjoying white-water rafting on the Maipo River, and savoring the world-famous wines at Concha y Toro winery. Your guides are knowledgeable and friendly, ensuring safety and fun, while the flexible schedule and all-inclusive equipment make everything straightforward.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the stunning natural scenery—from the rushing river to the lush vineyards—and the personalized touch of a private tour, which means more flexibility and attentive guidance. Plus, the opportunity to combine outdoor adventure with a cultural wine experience makes this tour particularly appealing.

One potential consideration is that lunch is not included**, so you’ll need to budget for that separately. Also, since the tour is about 8 hours long, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a full day of activity and some driving. If you’re someone who enjoys a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and wine, this tour suits a wide range of interests, especially for those eager to see more of Chile’s outdoors and its acclaimed wine regions.

Key Points

• Adventurous and Cultural Combo: Perfect for those wanting a mix of outdoor thrills and wine tasting.
• Private Experience: More personalized attention and flexibility for your group.
• All-Inclusive Equipment: Safe and easy rafting with gear provided.
• Stunning Scenery: Beautiful views of the Maipo River and vineyards.
• Authentic Local Experience: Visit Chile’s largest winery and learn about its history.
• Considerations: Lunch not included; full-day activity—best for active travelers.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

This tour offers a well-rounded day exploring some of Chile’s most impressive natural and cultural sights, with a focus on the Maipo Valley, an area renowned for its rugged beauty and world-class wines. Starting early at 9:00 am, your private driver picks you up in an air-conditioned vehicle, setting the tone for a comfortable, personalized journey.

Cajon del Maipo: Nature’s Playground

Your first stop is the breathtaking Cajon del Maipo, a canyon carved by time and water, showcasing the spectacular scenery that defines this region. Here, the highlight is the rafting on the Maipo River, led by a local guide who will share safety tips and insights about the river’s environment.

The reviews highlight how much fun travelers had navigating class 3 rapids, which offer just the right amount of thrill without being overwhelming. Bonnie_r, who took the tour in February, noted that Santiago’s guide made the experience smooth and enjoyable. Expect to get wet, laugh a lot, and see plenty of stunning vistas along the way. The included safety gear—wet suits, helmets, paddles—means you can focus on the fun rather than logistics.

The Allure of the Maipo River

The river route is swift and scenic, with snowmelt-fed waters adding a touch of freshness and power. The rapids are a highlight for adventure lovers, but even if you’re new to rafting, guides are experienced in ensuring safety and enjoyment. As Danielle_O mentioned, the guide was fantastic, making the whole experience memorable.

Lunch Break at a Local Restaurant

After the adrenaline rush, your guide will organize a stop for lunch. While the tour price doesn’t include this, the local restaurants in the area serve hearty, authentic Chilean fare. Expect to pay separately, and it’s worth trying regional specialties if you can. The relaxed atmosphere here provides a chance to reflect on the morning’s excitement and admire the scenic surroundings.

Concha y Toro Winery: A Taste of Chile

The afternoon’s highlight is a visit to Concha y Toro, Chile’s largest and perhaps most iconic winery. This estate is steeped in history and legend, offering a blend of stunning architecture, lush vineyards, and insightful guided tours.

Here, you’ll learn about the pioneering families behind Chile’s wine industry, and of course, get to taste some of the country’s best wines. Reviews show travelers loved this part—Danielle_O, for example, appreciated the opportunity to enjoy some wine, take photos, and learn more about Chilean wine culture. The two-hour stop provides plenty of time for tasting and exploring the estate’s picturesque grounds.

Other Tour Details

• Transport: You’ll ride in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup included, making the transfers hassle-free.
• Guides: The guides are professional and local, sharing interesting facts that add depth to your experience.
• Equipment: All rafting gear is provided, streamlining the adventure.
• Flexibility: Being a private tour means your schedule can be somewhat adaptable, within reason.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

While $239 might seem like a substantial price, it covers nearly everything—transport, guides, rafting gear, and winery admission. The combined value of outdoor adventure plus a wine tasting experience maximizes your day and provides a memorable snapshot of Chile’s diverse attractions.

Compared to doing these activities separately, this tour saves you time and hassle, plus adds the benefit of a local guide ensuring safety and insights. For travelers wanting an active day with a cultural twist, it’s a compelling option.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is ideal for adventure seekers who also appreciate good wine, as well as travelers interested in scenic landscapes and outdoor activities. It’s suitable for those comfortable with a full day on the move and moderate physical activity. Families with older children, couples, or small groups will find the private setting especially accommodating.

Final Thoughts

This private full-day rafting and wine tour hits a nice balance between thrill and chill, nature and culture. You’ll love the exhilaration of river rafting, the breathtaking views of the Maipo Valley, and the opportunity to taste and learn about Chilean wines at Concha y Toro. The guides earn praise for their professionalism and friendliness, making the entire experience smooth and enjoyable.

While it’s a long day—something to keep in mind if you prefer shorter excursions—the combination of adventure and culture offers real value. It’s a fantastic way to see a side of Chile that combines the country’s natural beauty with its renowned wine heritage.

If you enjoy active travel, scenic views, and authentic wine tastings, this tour offers an engaging, well-rounded day out of Santiago.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this experience is exclusively for your group, providing a more personalized and flexible experience.

How long is the rafting activity?
The rafting lasts about 2 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy the river and the rapids while taking in the scenery.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers transportation, a professional driver, guides for both the tour and rafting, all rafting gear, and the winery visit and tasting.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You will need to pay separately at local restaurants during the tour.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing for water activities, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat. All rafting gear is provided.

Can I participate if I’m a beginner?
Yes. The guides are experienced and will give safety instructions. The rafting has class 3 rapids, suitable for most beginners with guidance.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
The reviews mention rafting in February, which suggests summer is an ideal time, but the tour is available year-round.

Are there any physical requirements?
While the tour is suitable for most travelers, it involves some physical activity. If you have specific health concerns, it’s best to consult with your guide beforehand.

This tour offers a lively mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural richness, making it an excellent choice for those eager to see more of Chile in a single day.