Chiloé Island (8,394 km², 3241 sq mi), is the second largest island in Chile (and South America), after the Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego. This beautiful archipelago, situated south of Puerto Montt is linked to the mainland by ferries, which cross the Chacao channel. Whether on dry land or in their remarkable boats, Chiloé islanders live with the sea and the fascinating, old legends surrounding it. Chiloe is an archipelago made up of many islands. One encounters wonderful old churches; colorful markets full of seafoods and agricultural produce, knitted goods, woven baskets, ornaments and thick pure wool blankets. Chiloe's unique and delicious local cuisine features Curanto, a local dish consisting of all sorts of shell fish, smoked meats and pork steamed over hot stones sunk into the ground. Partly due to its physical isolation from the rest of Chile, Chiloé has a very special architectural style and local culture. It has a rich folklore tradition populated with numerous mythological animals and spirits. The Spanish, who arrived in the 16th century, and the Jesuit missionaries who followed, constructed hundreds of small wooden churches in an attempt to bring God to a pagan land; the result was a blend of Catholic and pagan beliefs. The unique buildings have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 1: Puerto Montt - Chiloé Island

This tour begins with a private transfer from Puerto Montt to Chiloé. A two-hour journey (incl. a 30 min. ferry ride) will take us to Ancud. This area is steeped in history. It was here that Spaniards made their penultimate stand in all the Americas. After lunch, during which you have an opportunity to discuss the history of Chiloé with your guide, we will depart to the countryside - an area of deserted beaches, quiet farmlands and coastal forests. Our destination will be the penguin colony of Puñihuíl, the only place in the world where Humbolt and Magallanic penguins nest side-by-side. We will tour the small island colonies by boat. We will spend the afternoon exploring the hidden beaches and landscape of the West coast. Activities depend on your interests. Overnight in Ancud. (L,D)

Day 2: East Coast Chiloé - Puerto Varas / Puerto Montt

Today we will drive south towards Castro, famous for its wooden church (one of 16 UNESCO World Heritage Sites on the island), crafts market and traditional houses set on stilts. There is a small museum with many photographs of the harbor in the early 20th century, as well as of the devastating earthquake of 1960. After lunch, we will continue up the coast to Dalcahue, where we will visit the centuries-old church. Another option for those more interested in the rural life of the island is to forgo the capital and enter the countryside- a land of family farms, green pastures, fishing communities and native forests. Stopping in some of the small villages we will be able to meet boat builders and observe their centuries-old craft. Churches loom large over the small hamlets, relicsof a bygone era of missionary work dating back to the 19th century. In the early evening, we will return to continental Chile. Overnight in Puerto Varas / Puerto Montt. (B,L)

Day 3: Puerto Varas /Puerto Montt

Breakfast at your hotel and transfer to Puerto Montt airport. (B)

Rates for 2008/2009 - per person

Includes:

2 overnights with breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner, transfers and excursions with bilingual driver-guide, roundtrip on ferry, entrance fees.

Not Included:

International or national airfares, airport taxes, travel insurance of any kind, meals not mentioned in the itinerary, expenses of a personal nature, tips or gratuities

Please note: Visit to the penguin colony depends on weather conditions, from November to March.

Rates may vary due to currency exchange rate fluctuations.

For further information and booking inquiries please send us and e-mail.

Hotels used for this itinerary:

Hotel Galeón Azul*** Hotel Galeón Azul, located on the shore of Ancud and overlooking the Gulf of Quetalmahue, is constructed in a unique architectural style. The hotel's 16 comfortable rooms are fitted with private bathrooms, central heating, telephone, TV and hair dryer. General amenities include: spacious restaurant providing both Chilean and International cuisine, bar, cafeteria, room and laundry service, safe deposit boxes, parking as well as meeting room

Hotel Cabañas del Lago**** Hotel Cabañas del Lago is located in the upper part of the city of Puerto Varas, just 5 blocks away from the main square and downtown area. This hotel combines local Patagonian style with a modern flair. The 125 rooms, divided in executive rooms, junior suites and suites, are all equipped with electronic door locks, cable TV, telephone, hairdryer and safe deposit box. Additional services include: heated swimming pool, Spa, barbecue area, Internet access, bar, restaurant and conference halls, ideal for groups or business conventions.