HOTEL TIERRA ATACAMA

High up in the remote and otherworldly desert oasis town of San Pedro de Atacama, this new boutique hotel offers luxury and adventure to the discerning traveler. The small lodge of only 32 rooms prides itself in personalized service with attention to detail - from the stylish, yet simple architectural style of the rooms and hotel facilities, to the gourmet dinners that are served at its restaurant, fine selection Chilean wines, to the Spa facilities that provide complete relaxation after a hard day's adventuring. Packages include daily excursions (either full day excursions or 2 half day excursions) such as hiking, mountain biking, 4 wheel drive tours to remote corners into the stunning surroundings, and even climbing trips. Physical demand varies greatly, but there is something on offer for every fitness level.

Hotel Facilities
The style of the hotel is distinctly modern, yet uses many elements of traditional style, materials and construction in order to blend into the surroundings. Tierra Atacama has included several features that are designed to lessen the environmental impact of the hotel:

Waste water is treated and reused to irrigate the gardens. Please use water carefully - it is a precious resource, especially in the Atacama - one of the driest places on earth!

The hotel has reverse osmosis water desalinization filters installed, which removes minerals and salts from the water drawn from their own deep well.

The landscaping plan preserves local native flora and introduces species that thrive on the soil and prevailing water conditions, such as alfalfa which serves as feed for the local livestock.

Excursions are designed with minimum impact on the land, plants, animals, and birds in mind. Future evaluation will aim at selecting and rolling-out further ecological improvements during these early years and on an on-going basis thereafter.

Rooms
All of Tierra Atacama's 32 rooms have private terraces with views of Licancabur volcano. The interior design follows a philosophy of elegant minimalism, enhanced with a local touch provided by unique hand-made textiles and crafts that have been scoured from local crafts people in order to create an authentic Andean flair.

Apart from the 30 double rooms (twin or doubles) there are also 2 family suites, which have 3 bedrooms: one large double room with a private terrace and bathroom and two smaller rooms for 2 people each. All rooms are equipped with wireless internet connections, central heating, safe, hair drier and telephone.

The Spa
There is nothing more sublime than to treat yourself to comprehensive relaxation at the spa after you return to the hotel from an exciting day's adventure. Tierra Atacama has full spa facilities:

There is an outdoor swimming pool, a jacuzzi and an indoor heated pool. The indoor pool has water jets, beds of bubbles and other playful features.

A steam room or Turkish bath is perfect after a day in the dry air of the desert, while the dry Finnish sauna melts away all stress and worries. The ambient massage rooms offer a relaxed and soothing atmosphere for facials and body treatments. There are also some special, serene spaces set aside for meditation or relaxation, where Rica rica herbal tea and cold cucumber water are served.

An extensive menu of spa treatments, such as aroma therapy massages, facials, body wraps, stone treatments etc. will help you to completely relax and rejuvenate in this peaceful ambiance.

Restaurant
Tierra Atacama's Chef creates an innovative cuisine from the best locally sourced ingredients, which also incorporates many traditional items, such as Quinoa and Andean potatoes. Fresh herbs as well as vegetables from Tierra Atacama's own garden guarantees flavorful freshness.

The Menu offers light and healthy dishes based on traditional Chilean and Andean recipes, though vegetarian options and international cuisine is also offered. The carefully selected wine list allows guests to discover Chile's many wonderful wines, sourced both, from some well-known wineries as well as from some hidden gems.

HOTEL TIERRA PATAGONIA

Tierra Patagonia is friendly and welcoming and our location is sublime.  Set in the uttermost south of Chile, we overlook Lake Sarmiento and the towering peaks of Torres del Paine National Park which was named a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Site in 1978.  The hotel is surrounded by nature, in splendid isolation with the nearest settlements some distance away.
At Tierra Patagonia we are committed to providing our guests with:

• Authentic active experiences in magnificent Chilean Patagonia
• Knowledgeable guided access to the local flora, fauna, geology, culture and history
• Relaxation, fun, delicious food, and memories for a lifetime

Hotel Design and Facilities
The hotel architecture and interiors radiate an ambiance of Patagonian warmth and comfort.  Large windows give excellent views from the public spaces and all 40 guest rooms.  Hotel facilities include living room and bar, dining area, guides’ presentation room, library, TV lounge, WiFi, indoor pool, outdoor Jacuzzi, and full Uma Spa.  Guest rooms have lovely bedding and bathrooms with amenities by L'Occitane. A large, always-lit fireplace welcomes guests in Patagonian style. 

Rooms
The hotel has 3 suites and 37 double rooms. All rooms have beautiful views across the lake to the mountains of the National Park. Six family apartments sleep six persons in two connecting rooms with two bathrooms. Suites have a downstairs bedroom and bath and a living room upstairs. Room sizes are 36m2 (387 sq.ft.) for the doubles, 55m2 (775 sq.ft.) for the suites, and 72 m2 (775 sq.ft.) for the family apartments. All rooms have hair dryer, safe, heating, air-conditioning, tub, and shower.

Adventures, Excursions and Activities
Tierra's excursions discover the Torres del Paine National Park and the ranches and pampas around the hotel. Our expert guides help guests to spot endemic birds, plants and animals, and to experience the mountains, pampas, woods, ridges, ranches, glaciers, rivers, lakes and waterfalls of Patagonia. Guides meet daily with guests to help select the best excursion for them, given individual interests and fitness. Options include walks, treks, horse-rides, bicycle rides and van-rides. There is a wide choice of indoor activities and informative talks; and the Spa services and indoor swimming pool are ideal after an adventure-filled day. Staying in for quiet time to read, chat, or nap by the fireplace is a popular activity too!

Food and Wine
Tierra's Chef uses local seafood from the Straits of Magellan, lamb and beef from the neighboring ranches, and local Calafate berries to prepare healthy, delicious meals.  The weekly Patagonian "asado" or barbecue features the slow-cooking of a lamb over coals. These asados were a highpoint in the lives of early settlers and remain so for the local people today. Guests will enjoy our extensive menu of Chilean wines, Patagonian hot whisky drinks or classic Chilean pisco sours.

Spa and Pool Facilities
The Uma Spa is a Tierra Hotels standard bearer offering steam bath, sauna, heated indoor pool with jets and cascades, outdoor jacuzzi, and locker rooms with lush towels and robes.  Uma Spa treatments include all types of massages and facials using local elements, stones and waters.

Star gazing in the Atacama Desert, with the Ahlarkapin Observatory
Ahlarkapin means "Bright Star" in the native Kunza language, and the team who created the observatory and deliver the services is one made up of local indigenous people, born in San Pedro de Atacama.

The Atacameñan Culture is an Andean one, and as such, it considers nature, man and Pachamama (Mother Earth) as a totality which is permanently related. Man has a soul and a life strength, just as plants, animals and mountains do. Man is nature itself. Therefore he keeps a harmonious relationship with Mother Earth, Inti (The God Sun) and Ancestors (The Grandfathers) through reciprocity and respect. Andeans practice many rituals in order to honor their divinities and keep their blessing.

The Andean cosmovision involves the celestial world. Earthly life and the transcendent life of the spirits are reflected in the sky. Yatiris and Amautas (the wise men) follow their traditions today depending on the movements of the heavens. Thus, the sky provides the knowledge necessary to live in the tough desert environment, in terms of agricultural activities and spiritual life, aspects that are always related.

We invite guests to enjoy this astronomic excursion with the Ahlarkapin team, consisting in a lecture that integrates the actual scientific point of view and the Andean World View, a naked eye sky gaze, and finally, the observation of different celestial bodies in one of the biggest private telescopes of the area.

The equipment used is;

• Binoculars: 2 pairs of 10 x 25 Swarovski and 10 pairs of 80 x 100 Celestron
• 3 x Meade Light Bright 16" Dobsonian Telescopes (these are portable to a certain extent and can be offered for events in the grounds of Tierra Atacama or another location in the desert – prices on request.
• Observatory with a Meade LX 200 ACF F/10 GPC and 16"

ITINERARY

Day 1. Calama - San Pedro de Atacama

You will be met at the airport in Calama and transferred in a air conditioned mini bus to the hotel. At the hotel your guide will go over the choice of activities available and as a team you will begin to construct your personalized adventure - based on your chosen length of stay - in San Pedro de Atacama.

These programs are based on full board so all meals for your time at the hotel are included.

Days 2 to 4. San Pedro de Atacama

See activity choices listed below

Day 5. San Pedro de Atacama - Calama - Punta Arenas (via Santiago)
You are transferred back to Calama airport for your flight to the southern reaches of Chile and Patagonia. (There is an option to stop over in Santiago or the lakes district en route south. This is NOT INCLUDED IN THE Chile Top to Bottom TRIP PRICE. Please enquire for options).

Due to the flight connections an overnight stay in Punta Arenas will be required - not included in trip price. On arrival into Punta Arenas you will be met and transferred to your hotel of choice. B

The following day you will be transferred from Punta Arenas to the Hotel Tierra Patagonia in Torres del Paine National Park. At the hotel your guide will go over the choice of activities available and as a team you will begin to construct your personalized adventure - based on your chosen length of stay - in Torres del Paine National Park.

These programs are based on full board so all meals for your time at the hotel are included.

Days 6 and 7. Torres del Paine

See activity choices listed below

Day 8. Torres - Punta Arenas - onward travels
You are transferred out of the park for your onward journey. There are choices to be dropped off in Puerto Natales to connect with one of our PAtagonian Fjord cruises, to Calafate Argentina to witness the world renown Moreno Glacier or to return to Punta Arenas for flights back north in Chile and beyond. Please enquire to the many options available. B

Additional nights are available on request.

ACTIVITIES HOTEL TIERRA ATACAMA

Adventures on four wheels

1 Altiplano Lagoons (Villages of Toconao & Socaire, Miscanti Lagoon)

Duration: 6 to 8 hours.

Level of difficulty: Easy.

Itinerary:

• Depart the hotel in a vehicle to the village of Toconao.
• Visit the church in Toconao.
• Visit the village of Socaire and the church there.
• Visit the lagoons of Miscanti & Miniques.
• Box lunch here.
• Return by vehicle to the hotel.

Description:
This adventure includes the discovery of important facts about the Atacamenan culture. In the villages of Toconao and Socaire, life as it is today can be observed. On arrival at the highland lagoons of Miscanti and Miniques, (4, 200 m/13, 860 feet high) there is time to view the large numbers of birds which live here and admire the beautiful scenery.

2 Salar de Tara

Duration: 6 to 8 hours.

Level of difficulty: Easy.

Itinerary:

• Depart the hotel and drive to the Salar de Tara.
• Visit the "nuns" of Tara
• Lunch.
• Return to the hotel in vehicle.

Description:
Heading east from the hotel, we head towards the border with Argentina, before turning off to the south at a height of 4 200m/13 860 feet approximately) Formations of igneous volcanic rock have formed the "nuns" of Tara, a marvellous sight in the middle o fan amazing plateau. Lunch here before returning on the same road back to the hotel.

3 El Tatio Geisers

Duration: 7 to 8 hours.

Level of difficulty: Easy.

Itinerary:

• Depart the hotel and drive to El Tatio.
• Visit to the Geothermal field where the Geisers are found.
• Return to the hotel by vehicle.

Description:
The El Tatio Geisers are located at a height of 4 300m /14 190 feet. The geothermal field has close links to the volcanic activity in the zone and consists of huge steam columns which reach heights of 12 metres /almost 40 feet. Intense sulphur odors and pools of boiling water and mud make this place seem like the initiation of life. Breakfast is served as dawn breaks. On the way back to the village, there is the opportunity to spot numerous families of vicunas and if we are lucky, foxes and Andean ostrich. Return to the hotel by vehicle for lunch.

** As this excursion departs early and is 8 hours long, it counts as a full day excursion.
Please ensure you have the correct clothing, including gloves and a hat – temperatures can reach -20°C/-4°F in winter.

4 Machuca

Duration: 3 - 4 hours.

Level of difficulty: Easy.

Itinerary:

• By vehicle to the north, passing through Guatin.
• Visit the village of Machuca.
• Return to the hotel in vehicle.

Description:
This journey reaches heights between 3000 and 4000 m. ( 9, 845 – 13, 123 feet) and visits typical dwellings, known as "cactaceas", traditional to the area, they are built of stone and used by the local people today in their transhumance method of keeping livestock. The village of Machuca has a privileged site surrounded by nature and in its only street we can see the roofs made of cactus and maybe taste barbecued llama, offered by the villagers. The church is of special interest for the cultural significance and many birds can be seen in the area also. Return to the hotel in vehicle

5 Puritama

Duration: 3 hours.

Level of difficulty: Easy.

Itinerary:

• Depart from the hotel in a vehicle heading north.
• Bathe in the hot springs of Puritama.
• Return to the hotel in a vehicle.

Description:
This journey combines a unique pleasure in surroundings where to find water is a complete surprise! Hidden at the bottom of a steep sided gorge, surrounded by vegetation, the River Puritama has 8 natural pools, with water which has an average temperature of 33°C/ 91°F at a height of 3500 m asl. (11, 482 feet) Following a lovely bathe, return to the hotel in a vehicle.

6 Viewpoints in the Salt Mountains

Duration: 3 hours.

Level of difficulty: Easy.

Itinerary:

• Depart from the hotel in a vehicle heading towards the Salt Mountains.
• Discover different viewpoints of the fascinating geography traveling in a vehicle.
• Return to the hotel .

Description:
This journey allows participants to appreciate the beauty of the landscape from the many viewpoints in the Salt Mountains, such as the scenery of Death Valley, Moon Valley and the Andes mountain range. A must for photo buffs!

6 Atacama Salt Flat (Chaxsa Lagoon Flamingo Reserve)

Duration: 4 hours.

Level of difficulty: Easy.

Itinerary:

• Depart the hotel in a vehicle towards Toconao.
• Visit the Chaxsa Lagoon, a flamingo reserve.
• Return to the hotel in vehicle.

Description:
The journey starts with a brief visit to Toconao where the main square and the historic church are the main attractions. Also see the handicrafts produced by the local families. Continue to the National Flamingo Reserve in the Atacama salt flat. There are three types of flamingo to be found here, which live off the microscopic lagoon life. The views of the Andes as the sun sets are truly amazing

Archeology

1 Padre Le Peige Museum/Quitor Fortress/Tulor Village

Duration: 3 to 4 hours.

Level of difficulty: Easy.

Itinerary:

• By vehicle to the Padre Le Peige Museum
• By vehicle to the Pucara de Quitor.
• By vehicle to Tulor Village
• Return to the hotel.

Description:
The history of the Atacama is fascinating, and helps to explain the culture and the idiosyncrasies of the desert peoples to the visitor. The museum displays give a broad understanding of events here and the visits to the archaeological sites uncover vestiges which still exist today.

2 Petroglyphs

Duration: 3 hours.

Level of difficulty: Easy.

Itinerary:

• By vehicle to the site
• Visit to the site of the petroglyphs.
• Return to the hotel.

Description:
Rupestrian art displays many forms of expression – man has tried to record experiences, common elements, symbols and signs. The description and understanding of these through a science, archeology, gives rise to a greater understanding of the human race. Petroglyph: an inscription or engraving on rock, fundamentally made by hand and with another hard object. This place is incredible and is witness to the travelers, shamans and merchants of the past who converged here and left evidence of their stories.

Walks & Hikes

1 Cornices

Duration: 2½ hours to 3 ½ hours

Level of difficulty: Easy.

Itinerary:

• Depart the hotel in a vehicle on the old road to Calama and get out when the tunnel is reached.
• Walk along the cornices.
• Descent via the main dune to Death Valley.
• Return to the hotel in a vehicle.

Description:
A fun excursion for the morning or afternoon. On arrival at the old road to Calama, the walk starts with a visit to some archaeological sites and wonderful views of the volcanoes of the region. At a height of around 2 600m/8580 feet, descend via the huge dune to Death Valley – an unforgettable experience which takes everyone back to their childhood!

2 Kari Gorge

Duration: 1½ hours to 2½ hours.

Level of difficulty: Easy, but following a narrow path at first.

Itinerary:

• Travel to the Kari Lookout point in a vehicle.
• Walk along the Kari Gorge.
• Return to the hotel in a vehicle.

Description:
An amazing morning or afternoon hike through incredible scenery. At a height of 2550m (8000 feet) enjoy an incredible phenomenon. The water, wind and temperature extremes have joined forces to produce this unique gorge in the Salt Mountain Range. We walk between dried up clay riverbeds, where crystals of salt and lime can be seen. There is a sense of the mountains growing around us. Return to the hotel in a vehicle.

3 Devils Canyon & Vilama

Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours.

Level of difficulty: Medium.

Itinerary:

• Depart the hotel in a vehicle heading towards the Catarpe Valley.
• Walk through the Devils Gorge and to the area of Vilama.
• Return to the hotel by vehicle.

Description:
A morning or afternoon excursion. Depart the hotel in a vehicle and head to Devil's Canyon to start the walk. The altitude here is approximately 2450 m.(8038 feet) We walk on flattish ground for about an hour, on the dry river bed through formations of lime which are part of the Salt Mountain Range. The trail then rises to take in amazing views of the surrounding volcanoes, Following an ancient caravan route we pass petroglyphs showing the former commercial activity in the area and finally finish at the old settlement known as Vilama. Return to the hotel in a vehicle.

4 Guatin/Gatchi

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Level of difficulty: Medium.

Itinerary:

• Travel by vehicle to the Guatin Valley.
• Walk through the valley of the Vilama River.
• Return to the hotel by vehicle.

Description:
Depart the hotel in a vehicle heading northeast of San Pedro de Atacama to the Guatin Valley. At a height of 2800m (9 186 feet) The confluence of two rivers takes place here – one coming from the warm thermal springs of Puritama, and the other is the Purifica river, whose waters are from the Andes mountains – this unique mix of warm thermal spring water and cold clear mountain snowmelt gives rise to the new river which supports the unique ecosystem of the Guatin Canyon. We walk here, alongside waterfalls and rocky climbs whilst marvelling at the amazing Candelaria cactus.

5 Guatin/Puritama

Duration: 2.5 to 3.5 hours.

Level of difficulty: Easy.

Itinerary:

• By vehicle to the Guatin Valley.
• Walk along the northern Guatin valley floor.
• Bathe at the Puritama thermal springs.
• Return to the hotel in a vehicle.

Description:
This excursion is better done in the morning because of the temperature changes. The walk starts at an altitude of 2 800m /9 186 feet to the northeast of San Pedro de Atacama. The walk is a steady uphill climb, through the valley which is scattered with igneous rocks from the volcanic explosions of the past. Passing between the native pampas grass which grows alongside the rivers of the area, we can view typical birds of the area. Accompanied by the gurgle of the water, we eventually arrive at the Puritama Thermal Springs, 8 pools of limpid warm water where there is a chance to bathe and relax before returning to the hotel in vehicle.

6 Machuca/Rio Grande

Duration: 7 to 9 hours.

Level of difficulty: Medium.

Itinerary:

• Travel by vehicle to the village of Machuca.
• Walk from the village of Machuca to the area of Penaliri.
• Lunch in Penaliri.
• Walk from Penaliri, to the village of Rio Grande.
• Return to the hotel in a vehicle.

Description:
This walk takes place at a height of around 4000m / 13 200 feet and is a great way to acclimatize to the altitudes for people who want to climb a volcano during their stay. The walk follows the river bed and on the way we can see llamas, alpacas and birds which are found in this habitat. Stop for lunch in the abandoned mountain village of Penaliri. Following this well deserved break, discover the abandoned terraces of the gully and continue on to the village of Rio Grande, the last in this odyssey of discovery, where typical highland corn and vegetables are grown. Return to the hotel in a vehicle.

Bicycle Rides

1 Devils Canyon / Catarpe

Duration: 2 ½ hours to 3.5 hours.

Level of difficulty: Medium

Itinerary:

• ½ hour approx. by bicycle to Catarpe.
• 1 hour approx. by bicycle in the Quebrada del Diablo.
• ½ hour approx. to cycle back to the hotel from Catarpe.

Description:
Depart from the hotel on bicycles heading towards the amazing Salt Mountain range, and the beautiful Devil's Canyon. The ride takes place at an average height of 2400m / 8000 feet) approximately. To the north of the San Pedro river the surrounding countryside is a mix of the stark landscapes of the Salt Mountains and the Oasis of San Pedro. The trail through the Devil's Canyon is flanked by clay cliffs and is sometimes sandy, with a constant gentle climb until the final labyrinth. The return journey follows the natural course of the San Pedro River until we reach the village and the hotel.

2 Sejas Lagoons

Duration: 4 hours approx.

Level of difficulty: Medium

Itinerary:

• Cycle from the hotel across the Atacama Salt Flat to the lagoon.
• About an hour for a bathe and a rest in the heavily salted water of the lagoon.
• Return by vehicle to the hotel.

Description:
This is a morning excursion to make the most of the temperature at this time of day. Depart the hotel heading south by bike to the Salt Flat to the lagoons of Sejas. The terrain is mainly flat and slightly uneven in places. On arrival at the lagoon, the view of the thick salt crust which has formed around the water hole is amazing. The salt concentration is incredibly high here and one floats in the spectacularly clear waters. Following time for a swim and a rest, return to the hotel by vehicle.

3 Windy Lookout Point (Death Valley, the Dune)

Duration: 2 to 3 ½ hours.

Level of difficulty: Medium with some technically more challenging parts

Itinerary:

• Depart the hotel towards the Salt Mountain Range.
• Ride for 30 minutes to an hour along the cornices.
• 20 minutes to descend in to Death Valley.
• 20 minute ride through Death Valley.
• Return to the Hotel via the paved highway.

Description:
A morning or afternoon excursion. Depart from the hotel heading northeast then head north towards the Salt Mountain Range enjoying marvellous views of the Andes and the volcanoes. Continue along the cornices viewing the formations of Death Valley from above, before descending via the old trails into the valley itself. Once at the bottom, continue on to Death Valley and cycle through the amazing scenery before returning to the hotel.

4 Bike Ride through the Ayllus

(Atacamenan Communities)

Duration: 1.5 to 2.5 hours.

Level of difficulty: Easy.

Itinerary:

• Depart the Hotel on bicycles.
• Visit the local villages and communities "ayllus" of Sequitor and Solor.
• Return to the hotel.

Description:
Depart the hotel in the morning or early afternoon. The nearby oases villages are typical of the local culture and in many ways their inhabitants still follow the same way of life as their distant ancestors. View the local agriculture and the unique irrigation system. This is a great way to be introduced to the village and the climate of San Pedro.

Volcanoes

1 Toco

Duration: 5/7 hours.

Level of difficulty: Medium.

Itinerary:

• 1 hour 30' approx. by vehicle to the foot of the volcano.
• Hike of 2 hours to 4 hours uphill to the summit.
• Half an hour on the peak.
• Descent of 1 to 1 ½ hours.
• Return to the hotel in vehicle, a journey of 1 hour.

Description:
The journey starts from the hotel, traveling in a vehicle for 1 hour 30 minutes to the starting point of the walk at a height of 4800m approx (16, 500 feet) The peak of the volcano is at 5650 m. /18, 645 feet and from the top there are great views of the Bolivian altiplano and the Atacama Salt Flat to the west. After time for a break and a rest, the descent is taken slowly and safely down the same route until the vehicle is reached. Return to the hotel by vehicle.

This excursion requires previous acclimatization to the altitude and the appropriate clothing (gloves, hat, windbreaker, good hiking boots and warm clothing. NOT appropriate for people under the age of 18 years. Guests who wish to participate in this excursion should allow a minimum of 5 days in the area with previous hikes of a strenuous nature to get used to the altitude. If their time and the weather permits we can arrange more challenging volcano walks once Toco has been successfully conquered!

Bird Watching

1 Altiplano and gullies of the Atacama

Description:
Places such as the Nacimiento and Guatin canyons, the Atacama Salt flat and the northern Chilean Altiplano are habitats which house a wide variety of differing species of birds. For example, the Salt Flats are home to the Chilean flamingo, Andean flamingo, Andean avocet and Puna Plover. The open altiplano wetlands houses Andean geese, Rufous bellied seed snipes, Golden Spotted Ground Doves and Ochre Naped Ground Tyrants amongst others. Other species to be found in the area include the Chiguanco Thrush, cordilleran canastero, Scale Throated Earth creeper, Andean Negrito and Horned Coot amongst many others. The time of year, migratory cycles, availability of food, temperature, altitude, etc., are all determining factors when bird-watching.

Flora & Fauna

1 Altiplano and gullies of the Atacama

Description:
The altiplano is a huge plateau at an altitude of 4000m/13 200 feet. It is an area of vast expanses of land cut into by deep channels and valleys, spotted with high salt lakes and where dark masses of lava from volcanic eruptions change the terrain. Rain is rare, temperatures vacillate wildly and the atmosphere at this altitude is transparent and luminous.

Although the conditions are harsh, many plant and vegetable species exist here and have adapted to the demands of the climate and terrain – this voyage of discovery of the local flora and fauna is fascinating.

Horse rides

1 Atacama on horseback

Description:
We can arrange a selection of rides with Atacamenan horses. Our saddles are Chilean (Western) style. The horses are mounted at the entrance to the hotel and we travel with our guide to discover the desert scenery. Depending on experience and wishes of the participants, the rides can take between 2 and 5 hours.

ACTIVITIES HOTEL TIERRA PATAGONIA

On 4 Wheels
Western Torres del Paine
Duration: 3 to 4 hrs
Difficulty: Easy

This half day excursion takes guests on an exploration of western Torres del Paine National Park. There are incredible views throughout the tour including of the río Paine waterfall and the cuernos as well as a wide variety of other landscapes. The tour will also visit lago Grey beach that provides views of glacier Grey in the distance. In addition to the sights, there are several opportunities to see animals such as guanacos, ñandús and various types of birds. Guides will provide explanations of the geological and glacial activity of the area.

Eastern Torres del Paine
Duration: 4 to 5 hrs
Difficulty: Easy

Enjoy the eastern section of Torres del Paine National Park with this excursion that allows the exploration of mirador laguna Amarga, lago Nordenskjold, the northern side of lago Sarmiento, mirador Pehoé and mirador río Serrano. This tour allows guests the opportunity to discover a large portion of Torres del Paine and see a variety of animals in their natural environment.

Laguna Azul
Duration: 3 to 4 hrs
Difficulty: Easy

A tranquil and relaxing tour, leave the hotel heading north towards laguna Azul with stunning views to the west of the Paine massif. Once arriving at laguna Azul guests will have the opportunity to enjoy a quiet walk along the edge of the laguna in search of animals and amazing views.

Estancia 3R
Duration: 2 to 3 hrs
Difficulty: Easy

Start by heading north towards Estancia 3R which is located in the Sierra Baguales valley with stunning views towards Condoreras. Guests will have multiple opportunities for panoramic photos as well as the possibility of a short walk to explore the ranch and the foot hills of Sierra Baguales.

Exploration Torres del Paine National Park
Duration: 7 to 8 hrs
Difficulty: Easy

This full day tour provides a complete discovery of Torres del Paine National Park, stopping at all of the most important sites within the park. See laguna Amarga, lago Nordenskjold, lago Sarmiento, mirador Pehoé, mirador río Serrano, lago Grey in addition to the waterfalls in the park. This full day tour includes a delicious lunch in the park itself.

PRICES FROM:

Exchange rates differ from time to time. For the most up-to-date prices of this holiday idea please fill out our Latin America Travel Quote form.

NOTES:

There is a 3 night minimum requirement for each hotel. IE 6 nights TOTAL must be booked for the Chile top to Bottom.

• Chilean international departure tax $30 USD. This fee should be included in your international airfare
• US$160(CA$132) reciprocity fee, payable in USD cash on arrival is charged. The receipt is regarded as a multiple entry visa and is valid until expiry of passport.
• Chilean domestic departure tax $10 USD
• Local currency is Pesos
• Time Zone: GMT/UTC -4
• Dialing Code: 56
• Electricity: 220V, 60Hz
• Weights & measures: Metric

Seasonality & Location - Patagonia
Tierra Patagonia is open from September 1st to April 30th and closed during the winter months. (May – August)  It is a one hour drive from Puerto Natales airport and a 4 hour drive from Punta Arenas airport.  Flights from Santiago, Chile to Punta Arenas are 3.5 hours and in the summer there are flights to Puerto Natales. The hotel is a 15 minute drive from the Sarmiento entrance to Torres del Paine National Park

DEPARTURE:

Northern Chile is accessible year round however the season in Patagonia is limited to October to April and as such departure for Chile top to Bottom are:
Daily mid October to early April
NOTE: The included transfers from / to Punta Arenas or Puerto Natales to the Tierra Patagonia operate on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday

PRICE INCLUDES:

• Our all-inclusive prices include the following:
• Transfers to and from local airports
• Accommodations in the hotels
• Open bar
• Daily excursions and indoor presentations
• Use of the spa facilities (indoor pool, outdoor jacuzzi, sauna and steam rooms)
• All meals as listed B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

NOT INCLUDED

• Domestic Flights
• Stopovers in Santiago and or the Lakes District
• Visa fees (if required)
• Passport & Visa Costs
• Vaccination Costs
• Personal Spending Money
• Meals where not listed
• Drinks
• International Flights
• Travel Insurance
• Airport departure taxes
• Border taxes or fees

Visas

At the time of booking we will advise you of any visas or other documentation that will be required prior to your arrival.

Costs relating to the issue of visas or related documentation are the responsibility of the traveller.

As visa requirements change it is your responsibility to ensure that the correct documentation and visas are obtained before traveling. Failure to do so may result in your not being able to join the trip.

For the latest information on visas please visit:

US Citizens
Canadian Citizens
Australian Citizens
General

Disclaimer:

Prices based on per person, twin/double share, unless otherwise noted, and pre-set group minimum numbers. Prices & itineraries are correct at the time of printing. Itineraries & prices may change due to currency fluctuations, local conditions or events outside the control of A.I and her local operators. Please see our booking terms & conditions for full details.

Equipment List / Check List:

• Travel documents: passport, visa, travel insurance, air tickets, voucher
• Health requirements arranged
• Money: travellers cheques/cash/credit card
• Money pouch
• First Aid kit
• Day pack to carry your personal needs during the day
• Alarm clock and torch/flashlight
• Mosquito repellent
• Refillable water bottle and plastic mug for train journeys
• Ear plugs can be useful if you are a light sleeper
• Walking shoes with a good grip
• Camera
• Wet Wipes (disinfectant hand tissues)

Please call us to inquire about departure dates.