Set out on a captivating small-group tour from Santiago that promises an unforgettable winter adventure. Explore the stunning Portillo Ski Center, meet the friendly St. Bernard mascot, and marvel at the serene beauty of Inca Lagoon, all while traversing the picturesque Aconcagua Valley. This 8-hour journey through the Andes offers breathtaking vistas and historical landmarks, catering to a maximum of 8 travelers for an intimate and personalized experience. Discover why this tour has gained rave reviews from previous participants – there’s more to uncover beyond the scenic highlights.

Good To Know

  • This small-group tour from Santiago takes travelers on an 8-hour road trip to the renowned Portillo Ski Center and the scenic Inca Lagoon.
  • The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a knowledgeable guide, and opportunities to explore Andean landscapes and historic sites along the way.
  • Highlights of the tour include the chance to encounter a friendly St. Bernard mascot at Portillo Ski Center and admire the striking emerald-green waters of Inca Lagoon.
  • Positive reviews praise the tour guide’s expertise, while negative reviews cite reliability issues, such as vehicle breakdowns and delays.
  • The tour has a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

Tour Overview and Details

The small-group tour of Portillo Ski Center and Inca Lagoon takes guests on an 8-hour road trip from Santiago.

With a maximum of 8 travelers, the tour follows the scenic Los Libertadores Highway through the Aconcagua Valley.

Highlights include stunning views of Laguna del Inca and an encounter with a friendly St. Bernard at the ski resort.

The tour departs from accommodations in Providencia, Las Condes, Vitacura, or Santiago Centro, with daily departures starting at 7:00 am.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, along with a tour guide, though food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t specified.

Inclusions and Logistics

Small-Group Tour of Portillo Ski Center and Inca Lagoon From Santiago - Inclusions and Logistics

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with a tour guide provided throughout the experience.

Food and drinks aren’t specified, so guests should plan accordingly. Gratuities aren’t included in the tour price. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though infant seats are available.

The logistics of the tour are straightforward, with a maximum of 8 guests per group. This ensures a personalized experience during the 8-hour road trip.

The departure point is from accommodations in Providencia, Las Condes, Vitacura, or Santiago Centro, with daily tours starting at 7:00 am.

Scenic Stops and Historical Sites

Small-Group Tour of Portillo Ski Center and Inca Lagoon From Santiago - Scenic Stops and Historical Sites

Along the scenic route, the tour makes several stops at notable landmarks and historical sites.

One of the first stops is the Monument to the Victory of Chacabuco, a 20-meter-tall monument commemorating the Battle of Chacabuco in 1817.

The tour also visits the city of Los Andes, founded in 1791 and located on the route to Argentina via the Uspallata Pass.

The guide may point out additional scenic locations along the way, providing commentary on the history and significance of these sites.

These stops allow guests to stretch their legs, take in the stunning Andean landscapes, and learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Customers have shared a range of feedback about their experiences with this small-group tour of Portillo Ski Center.

The tour has an overall rating of 3.0 stars out of 49 reviews. Positive comments praise the tour guide’s expertise and the scenic beauty of the route.

However, nearly half the reviews are negative, citing issues with the tour operator’s reliability and the vehicle’s maintenance.

While some travelers enjoyed the 5-star experience, others were disappointed with the 2- and 1-star ratings, citing problems like delays and breakdowns.

Booking and Cancellation Information

A lowest price guarantee is available for this small-group tour of Portillo Ski Center.

Plus, travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

The tour may also be operated by a multi-lingual guide, providing a more personalized experience for a maximum of 7 travelers.

  • Lowest price guarantee available
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide

Exploring Portillo Ski Center

Small-Group Tour of Portillo Ski Center and Inca Lagoon From Santiago - Exploring Portillo Ski Center

During the small-group tour, visitors explore the Portillo Ski Center, a renowned winter sports destination nestled in the Andes Mountains.

The tour includes a visit to the iconic ski resort, where guests can admire the stunning views of the surrounding peaks. One of the highlights is meeting the resort’s friendly St. Bernard mascot.

Visitors also have the opportunity to stroll around the resort’s facilities, including the ski slopes and the Laguna del Inca, a picturesque glacial lake.

The tour provides an immersive experience, allowing guests to witness the beauty and charm of this winter wonderland in the heart of the Andes.

Discovering Inca Lagoon

Small-Group Tour of Portillo Ski Center and Inca Lagoon From Santiago - Discovering Inca Lagoon

The Inca Lagoon, nestled in the heart of the Andean mountains, is a breathtaking destination that captivates visitors during the small-group tour.

Known for its striking emerald-green waters, the lagoon offers a serene and tranquil setting amidst the rugged landscape.

Visitors can expect to:

  • Admire the stunning reflection of the surrounding peaks in the calm waters.
  • Spot diverse wildlife, including birds and small mammals, that thrive in the lagoon’s ecosystem.
  • Enjoy the serene ambiance and take in the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the Inca Lagoon.

The tour’s stop at the Inca Lagoon provides a chance for travelers to enjoy the region’s natural splendor and create lasting memories of their Andean adventure.

Route Through Aconcagua Valley

The small-group tour takes travelers along the scenic Los Libertadores Highway, winding through the picturesque Aconcagua Valley. The route offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.

Along the way, the tour stops at the Monument to the Victory of Chacabuco, a 20-meter-tall monument commemorating the Battle of Chacabuco in 1817. The group also passes through the city of Los Andes, founded in 1791, which serves as a gateway to Argentina via the Uspallata Pass.

These scenic stops and historical sites provide a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage and natural beauty. The journey through the Aconcagua Valley is a highlight of the overall tour experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Change the Departure Location if It’s Not Convenient?

Yes, you can change the departure location if the provided options are not convenient. The tour operator offers flexible pickup from various accommodations in Santiago to ensure a seamless start to your excursion.

Is It Possible to Add Extra Stops Along the Way?

Yes, it may be possible to add extra stops along the way, but this would depend on the tour operator’s policies and the overall itinerary. Travelers should discuss any requests for additional stops when booking the tour.

How Can I Pay for the Tour if I Don’t Have a Credit Card?

Customers can pay for the tour in cash upon pickup. The tour operator accepts local currency and may also offer alternative payment options like mobile wallets or wire transfers, depending on the specific booking policies. Advance online payments may also be an option.

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour to Run?

The tour has a maximum of 8 guests, but there is no minimum number of participants required for the tour to run. The operator will proceed with the tour as long as at least one guest is booked.

Can I Extend the Tour to Explore the Area Further on My Own?

The tour does not offer the option to extend and explore the area further on your own. The itinerary is fixed, and the tour operates on a set schedule with a maximum of 8 travelers.

The Sum Up

This small-group tour from Santiago to Portillo Ski Center and Inca Lagoon offers an unforgettable winter wonderland experience. Travelers will marvel at the stunning Andean scenery, meet the friendly St. Bernard mascot, and create lasting memories in this picturesque setting. With a maximum of 8 participants, this adventure provides an intimate and personalized experience along the Los Libertadores Highway through the captivating Aconcagua Valley.