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The Best Regions for Wine Tasting in Chile

Chile is famed across the world for its world-class wines and no visit to Chile is complete without visiting one of its vineyards! The majority of wineries lie in the central region of the country – in the outskirts of Santiago and towards the south. That means you can include a tour and tasting day trip from the capital

Maipo Valley

Just a few kilometers from Santiago, you can find the Maipo valley. As well as being home to a marvelous backdrop of mountains and hiking trails, this expansive valley hosts some of the most well-known Chilean vineyards. Specializing in reds, the area produces some of the finest Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenère grapes in the country.

Step off the beaten path to the small vineyard of Viña el Principal for a tour. Enjoy a tasting before a traditional asado (barbeque) with a stunning view overlooking the valley. Alternatively, head further out to the Pirque valley. Here, you can discover the passion project of a horseracing and wine aficionado at Haras de Pirque. You can spot the love for horses everywhere, from the horseshoe-shaped cellar to the racing memorabilia at the restaurant. Enjoy a tasting of their exclusive wines in a spectacular atrium here, or cycle the vines here for a peaceful afternoon.

Casablanca Valley

The Casablanca valley lies between Santiago and the coast. The difference in climate and terroir here favours white wines, like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. 

The wineries here also offer unique techniques. Head to Bodegas Re for a wonderful mix of innovative blends and ancient techniques, where the wattle and daub cellar walls and clay amphoras offer a unique experience and flavor. Or fancy yourself as an enologist for the day at the Emiliana vineyard. Specializing in organic wine production, enjoy the beautiful grounds with a picnic amongst the vines. You can even make your own blend to take home with you! 

Colchagua Valley

The Colchagua Valley produces some of the world’s most prestigious wines. A couple of hours’ drive south from Santiago, you’ll venture into the heartland of the Chilean countryside. 

You can find the luxurious vines of Lapostolle, Montes, and Clos de Apalta here. Head to the Viu Manent vineyard for a little romance as you take a ride on a horse-drawn carriage around the grounds followed by a sunset tour. If that’s not your thing, get active on an e-bike tour or enjoy a picnic amongst the vines. Be sure to make a stop at the award-winning restaurant for an exquisite lunch, too! 

Talk to us today about your ideal wine experiences in Chile so we can make them a reality.

Spotting Antarctica’s Big Five

Antarctica: a snowy wilderness and a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise. Experience the thrill of watching some of the world’s most extraordinary species in their natural environment as they enjoy the freedom and safety to roam amidst the icy surroundings. From a charming penguin waddling towards its nest to feed its adorable hatchlings, to a pod of orcas darting through the ocean in pursuit of their next meal, an Antarctic safari is an experience you will not forget. 

 

 

The landscape is considerably different from the African savannah or the Costa Rican jungle. Unlike an African safari, you won’t be traveling for hours down dirt roads. Instead, you’ll cruise comfortably on a top of the line ship with delicious food and warm drinks on hand.  Nonetheless, the amount of wildlife you can see as well as the action and pursuit for the perfect photograph is incredible all the same. 

There’s a whole array of wildlife you can spot in Antarctica. Although nothing can be guaranteed in nature, your captain and crew will listen out for wildlife sightings to maximize your chances. These are the local ‘big five’ to put on your ‘to see’ list! 

Humpback whales

Humpback whales are the most abundant baleen whales in the Antarctic Peninsula, but they are a sight to behold. Watch in awe as these marine giants breach the surface, showcasing their colossal bodies and gracefully diving back into the depths. Humpback whales are known for their hauntingly beautiful songs that resonate through the icy waters. Depending on the conditions, you might even be able to hear or feel it! 

Photo: Ashley Cooper

 

Leopard Seals

Leopard seals, named for their spotted coats, are sure to impress you. Measuring around three meters in length, these are ferocious and formidable hunters. If you are lucky enough to see one, watch how they use their powerful jaws and sharp teeth to feed on smaller seals, fish, and squid.

Photo: Ben Osborne

Adélie Penguins

You can spot an Adélie penguin by its distinctive features: the white rings that encircle their eyes. Watching these funny creatures is like being transported into a nature documentary. Living in their countless colonies, completely undisturbed in their natural habitat they continue their infinitely entertaining and lively behaviors beyond your wildest imagination. Watch as they gather pebbles to construct nests, steal from other penguins, and even get into scuffles!

Photo: Sandra Walser

Fin Whales

Fin whales are the second longest whale on the planet, reaching nearly 85 feet (26 metres). Unfortunately, overhunting in the 20th century greatly threatened their survival – their curious, friendly, and playful nature makes them easy targets. Although a ban on whaling led to their recovery, only a few hundred breeding pairs remain, making a sighting even more special.  

Photo: Dani Abras

Wandering Albatrosses

The wandering albatross, boasting a wingspan of nearly ten feet or three meters, is the largest seabird species. Some individuals can live over 60 years without ever setting foot on land during the first six years of their lives. If you get to see one soar effortlessly through the crisp Antarctic air, you’ll be awestruck.  A symbol of resilience and adaptability in one of the most inhospitable environments on Earth, this magnificent creature is a reminder of the incredible diversity and tenacity of life on our planet.

Photo: Jordi Plana

 

If you want to find out more what you can see in Antarctica or our Antarctica itineraries, speak to an Ecochile travel specialist today!