Penguins Watching-Navigation & HorseRide & Barbecue From Santiago

Discovering the wonders of Chile’s coastal landscapes has never been easier. The "Penguins Watching-Navigation & HorseRide & Barbecue From Santiago" tour offers an unforgettable day of adventure and exploration. Set out on a scenic motorboat ride to Isla Cachagua, home to a colony of captivating penguins, and learn about the picturesque Zapallar beaches. Thrill-seekers can enjoy an exhilarating horseback ride over stunning sand dunes, followed by a delicious barbecue lunch. With professional guides and a flexible itinerary, this tour promises an exceptional experience that combines the wonders of nature, adventure, and local cuisine. Discover why this tour has become a must-do for those seeking to uncover Chile’s coastal treasures.

Good To Know

• Tour offers a private excursion from Santiago to Isla Cachagua (Penguin Island) with penguin observation, sand dune horseback riding, and a barbecue lunch.
• Includes a 1.5-hour motorboat ride to the island, 2-hour exploration of Zapallar’s beaches, and admission to the island subject to weather conditions.
• Designed for most travelers, with the exception of those with limited mobility or serious medical conditions, and not wheelchair accessible.
• Highly rated by guests for the memorable experiences, such as penguin sightings and the combination of activities and natural settings.
• Tour pricing starts at $429.00 per person, with children under 7 joining for free, and flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior.

Tour Overview and Details

The private tour from Santiago to Cachagua Island offers visitors the chance to witness the captivating penguin population.

Activities include visiting the sand dunes of Ritoque, horseback riding, and enjoying a barbecue lunch. The tour provides snacks, Chilean red wine, and a roast beef and vegetable meal.

Children under 7 can join at no extra cost. Prices start at $429.00 and vary by group size, with a lowest price guarantee.

The 1.5-hour motorboat ride to Penguin Island is included, as well as admission to Zapallar’s beaches and dock.

The tour starts at 8:00 am from Santiago and isn’t wheelchair accessible, though most travelers can participate.

Itinerary and Activities

The tour begins with a 1.5-hour motorboat ride to Penguin Island, known as Isla Cachagua.

During the scenic navigation, guests will enjoy the coastline between Zapallar and Cachagua. Admission to the island is included, though the trip is weather-dependent for safety reasons.

Next, the tour visits Zapallar, where guests will:

1. Spend 2 hours exploring the beaches and dock (admission free).
2. Enjoy horseback riding over the sand dunes and along the beach.
3. Indulge in a barbecue lunch featuring roast beef, vegetables, Chilean red wine, and other refreshments.

Isla Cachagua

One of the main highlights of the tour is the visit to Isla Cachagua, also known as Penguin Island.

Guests will embark on a 1.5-hour motorboat ride to the island, navigating along the coast between Zapallar and Cachagua. The admission ticket is included, though the tour requires good weather for safety.

On the island, visitors can observe the resident penguin population and explore the natural surroundings. This unique opportunity to witness penguins in their natural habitat is sure to be a memorable experience for all participants.

Zapallar

Following the visit to Isla Cachagua, the tour then takes guests to the charming town of Zapallar.

There, they’ll enjoy a 2-hour visit to the beaches and dock, free of admission fees. The highlight of this segment is the opportunity to go horseback riding over the sand dunes and along the beach, providing a unique perspective of the scenic coastline.

The itinerary includes:

1. Exploring the beaches and dock of Zapallar.
2. Horseback riding over the sand dunes and along the beach.
3. Taking in the picturesque coastal views.

This portion of the tour allows visitors to experience the natural beauty of Zapallar and participate in an exhilarating horseback riding activity.

Pickup and Logistics

For this private tour, pickup and drop-off services are provided from Santiago City, whether your starting point is a hotel or Airbnb.

The tour takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes to reach Zapallar from Valparaiso. Guests can expect the tour to begin at 8:00 AM.

Fortunately, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, providing flexibility.

The tour covers a distance of about 120 kilometers, ensuring a scenic journey along the coast.

Participants can sit back and relax as the experienced guide handles the logistics, allowing them to fully enjoy the activities ahead.

Safety and Accessibility

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must be seated on laps.

While the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions, most travelers can participate.

The key safety considerations include:

1. The motorboat ride to Penguin Island requires good weather conditions for safe navigation.
2. Horseback riding over sand dunes and along the beach may not be suitable for those with limited mobility or balance issues.
3. The overall tour involves moderate physical activity, such as walking on uneven terrain, climbing in and out of the motorboat, and navigating on the beach.

Reviews and Feedback

Based on the details provided, the tour has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from guests.

With an overall rating of 5.0 out of 5 based on 8 reviews, the tour seems to have exceeded guests’ expectations.

Highlights include the opportunity to see penguins, the enjoyable horseback riding experience, and the delightful barbecue lunch in scenic locations.

Guests particularly praised the tour guide for ensuring a memorable experience and adapting the itinerary based on weather conditions.

The combination of activities, the beautiful natural settings, and the attentive service from the tour provider appear to make this an exceptional excursion for those visiting Santiago.

Pricing and Availability

The tour starts at $429.00 per person, with a lowest price guarantee. The exact price varies based on group size, with children under 7 years old joining at no extra cost.

Guests can take advantage of:

1. Complimentary snacks, Chilean red wine, and a hearty roast beef and vegetable meal during the tour.
2. Flexible cancellation policy, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
3. Pickup and drop-off service from Santiago City, making the logistics seamless.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, most travelers can participate and enjoy the unique opportunity to see penguins, explore sand dunes, and engage in horseback riding.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not specify a dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended for activities like horseback riding and walking on the beach. Swimwear may also be useful if weather permits.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Barbecue Lunch?

The tour includes a barbecue lunch, but it doesn’t specify any dietary restrictions. Guests should contact the tour operator in advance if they have any special dietary needs that need to be accommodated.

Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment?

Guests are welcome to bring their own camera equipment on the tour. However, they should be mindful of the boat ride and outdoor activities, and ensure their equipment is properly secured and protected from the elements.

Are There Any Age Limits for the Horseback Riding Activity?

The tour doesn’t specify any age limits for the horseback riding activity. However, the tour operator may have restrictions based on the child’s size and ability to safely control the horse. It’s best to check with them directly.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement for the Tour?

The tour has no minimum group size requirement. Prices start at $429 and vary based on the number of participants, with a lowest price guarantee regardless of group size.

The Sum Up

This tour offers an extraordinary opportunity to discover the natural wonders of Chile’s coastline. Witness the captivating presence of penguins, explore the picturesque Zapallar beaches, and enjoy thrilling horseback riding over sand dunes, all culminating in a delectable barbecue lunch. With experienced guides and a flexible itinerary, it’s an immersive experience that promises to leave lasting memories.