This is the ultimate private tour adventure! First, we visit the largest privately-owned alpaca farm in Chile. Indulge in nature and discover alpacas up close. You will see the entire alpaca wool production process and enjoy a broad selection of exclusive creations and handmade alpaca wool items that portray the patrimony and spirit of the Andean culture, which is the World of the Alpacas.
Then, we travel to the foothills of the Andes and stop at Paidahuén Archaeological Park. Paidahuén is an isolated hill located along the northern bank of the Aconcagua River in the rural town of San Esteban. At the top of Paidahuén, visitors will appreciate large rocks adorned with petroglyphs. Full of symbolism and mystery, these rock drawings are the work of native populations dating from 450 to 1,000 years ago. The true meaning of the petroglyphs is unknown, but research has demonstrated that they were not made randomly.
From the top of the hill, visitors may ponder unanswered questions while taking the natural context into consideration. Specifically, the relationship between Paidahuén Hill and other peaks in the valley, the hill’s strategic positioning, and the prevalence of north-facing petroglyphs are some of the observations that can help understand the importance of this site.
Next stop, we visit nearby San Esteban Winery for a vineyard tour and wine tasting. San Esteban is a family-owned and operated producer of high-quality wines and table grapes. The vineyard exports to more than 20 countries. Their grapes are planted along the banks of the Aconcagua River and on the surrounding hillsides. This geography creates a micro-climate ideally suited for wine and table grape production, with a soil quality that rivals the best wine-growing regions in South America.
After the winery tour and wine tasting there will be time for lunch (not included), if you choose, at a rustic countryside restaurant called “Juan y Medio”, an old monastery where the Catholic monks used to make wine.
On the return to Santiago, on a clear day, we will see views of Mount Aconcagua, the tallest mountain in the Western Hemisphere, at 22,841 feet above sea level.
This private tour shows visitors the essence of Chile!
Please note:
(1) The order of sites visited may vary.
(2) It is necessary to walk uphill on a gradual trail for approximately 20 minutes to reach the petroglyphs at the summit. The climb can be done by a person of any age in good health. Walking poles are provided. This walk is optional and may be omitted if the guest chooses.
(3) Although this is a private tour with your own vehicle and guide, there may be other visitors at the alpaca farm and wine vineyard joining you, which is beyond our control.