Mountains, Lakes and Malbec

Snow-capped peaks along the craggy spine of the Andes, vast sapphire-blue lakes, dense stands of ancient temperate forest, one of the finest wine-growing regions in the world—we’ve put them all together to create a beautiful journey that explores the best of central Chile and Argentina. On our insider’s journey, we hike and kayak the cerulean lakes of the Patagonian Lake District from a lakeside lodge, cross the Andes through Nahuel Huapi National Park to explore the snow-capped Osorno Volcano and charming Puerto Varas, enjoy a traditional barbecue at a Chilean ranch in the countryside near Puerto Montt, and savor wine tasting and vineyard lunches in Mendoza, Argentina’s prime wine country. Join us for this active, moveable feast in the Andes!

Itinerary at a Glance

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Days 1-4
Buenos Aires, Argentina / Bariloche / Lake Nahuel Huapi

After a day in Buenos Aires to explore the elegant Recoleta district and walk the cobbled streets of San Telmo, we fly to the mountain town of Bariloche. Here we enjoy hikes and lake adventures in Nahuel Huapi National Park, a wild landscape where the snow-capped Andes meet the golden Patagonian steppe. We explore by sea kayak in this deep blue lake, with its fjords and temperate rainforest, and hike trails to spectacular viewpoints overlooking the lake. Our accommodation is a boutique lodge with a tranquil lakeside setting and views stretching out over the waters of Lake Nahuel Huapi.

Days 5-7
Lake District Crossing / Puerto Varas, Chile

The Patagonian Lake District is famed for its forest-ringed mountain lakes in emerald and azure hues. We visit three of them, including enchanting Lago Puyehue, as we cross the mountains of Nahuel Huapi National Park to arrive in Chile and the lakeside town of Puerto Varas, set on Lago Llanquihue, one of the largest natural lakes in South America. Snow-capped Osorno (8,701'), one of the most perfectly cone-shaped volcanoes in the world, dominates the views here and we enjoy a hike on its slopes.

Day 8
Santiago

Flying to Santiago, we explore the bustling lanes of the Mercado Central, a picturesque market full of fruit, fish, and vegetable vendors, then head out to the prestigious Maipo Valley, with its emerald-green vineyards framed by snow-capped mountains. Wine tasting and tours give us an introduction to Chile’s vibrant wine culture. Wine has been cultivated in these beautiful valleys for over 300 years.

Days 9-12
Mendoza Wine Country

A spectacular route brings us over the high Andes into Argentina. Along the way, we pass lofty Portillo, Chile’s stylish ski resort, and descend to Mendoza, Argentina’s wine capital, with its rose gardens and sycamore-shaded streets. Our walks here offer the perfect finale as we immerse ourselves in Argentine wine culture and enjoy charming wine bars and terrace cafes. Outside Mendoza, in serene countryside where dramatic new concept wineries mingle with quaint family wine estates, we tour vineyards and enjoy wine tastings, including lunch at an intimate wine bodega in the town of Lujan de Cuyo. Depart on Day 12.

For a more complete description, Download Full Trip Brochure

What the Trip is Like

This trip is Level 3, Moderate. It features sightseeing with day walks and hikes and some long drives on rough, unpaved roads. Appropriate time for rest and acclimatization is included in the itinerary, but for your own enjoyment of the trip, we recommend that you make a special effort to be in good physical condition. Throughout the trip, we enjoy hotel and lodge accommodations.

Explanation of Trip Levels