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    Break away from the Gringo Trail and join us for an unforgettable day in this fascinating region of the Chilean coast.

THE CHILEAN SOUP TOUR



Without a doubt our most popular tour! A perfect day that blends serenity and adventure. See and understand why we call this area our home.


Your day begins with a unique ride from Talca on Chile´s historic ¨ramal¨ (branch) train. See beautiful landscape as you journey along side the Rio Maule on this authentic mode of transportation used by locals of the area. We meet you upon your arrival in Constitución, a traditional working town where the waters of the Maule River meet the Pacific Ocean. Witness the local´s colorful lifestyle as we explore the town, magnificent black sand beaches, fascinating rock formations, and an active artesanal fishing pier. Then we have two options for a taste of traditional Chilean cuisine; Rancho Astillero – a local favourite only accessed by boat OR Casa del Bosque – situated in a peaceful pine and eucalyptus forest that invites exploration. Swimming is recommended at both locations. At this point we head up the coast where 40kms of the Sahara-like Putú dunes await you. A magical place to see by foot or 4x4, but don’t forget to ask us about horseback riding or kiteboarding. An invigorating experience to end the day before your return to Talca.

Duration: Full Day
Price per person: $17,000 (lunch and transportation to/from Constitución extra)

PUTÚ DUNES ADVENTURE


From Constitución, we proceed to the Sahara-like Putú Sand Dunes. Over forty kms long and one km wide, here, you will feel the sensations of immensity, peace, and see first-hand the power of Mother Nature. An experience not to be missed.

The climate in the dunes can vary dramatically, and wind should be expected. Bring water, sunscreen, and warm layers. For evening departures, bring very warm clothing and a flashlight.


DUNES BY 4X4  

We begin the tour with a 25 minute drive to the dunes through colonial villages and Chilean farmland. At the dunes, we will go for a thrilling ride in the 4x4, but will also ensure plenty of time to walk among the dunes and along the beach. Best enjoyed late in the day, when we can watch the sunset over the Pacific ocean beside a roaring bonfire.

Duration: approx 3 hours
Price per person: $8,000

DUNES BY HORSEBACK


The same program as above, only this time with our pride and joy – our horses. You won´t find finer quality horses or equipment anywhere in South America. If you enjoy horseback riding, you will love this experience.

Duration: approx 4 hours
Price per person: $13,000

BY THE LIGHT OF THE MOON

An unforgettable experience riding through the dunes and alongside the sea with the moon as our natural guide. We´ll enjoy the evening further with a blazing bonfire overlooking the ocean. A must!!!

Duration: approx 5 hours (3 hours on horseback)
Departures: every full moon at 9:00pm
Price per person: $20,000 (including coffee and snacks)


WATERFALLS AND NATURE EXPLORATION



The surrounding area of Constitución is breathtaking with expansive hills and valleys, native forests, gurgling rivers and streams, and lively waterfalls that provide a home for local songbirds and wildlife. Come and explore the local flora and fauna with us.



CASCADA DE GARGANTA DEL ELEFANTE (Elephant’s Throat Waterfall) - WALKING

On this excursion, we walk along (and sometimes in!) the San Pedro river toward Garganta del Elefante, which you can even view from the inside out! Throughout the day, you will have opportunities to swim in natural pools, observe native flora and fauna, and enjoy relaxing hydromassages from other small waterfalls.

Duration: approx 4 hours in total (2 hours walking) or longer with a picnic
Price per person: $7,000
$9,000 (picnic and snacks)

CASCADA DE GARGANTA DEL ELEFANTE (Elephant’s Throat Waterfall) - HORSEBACK

The same program as above, with the addition horses. And not your average trailride! An unforgettable ride through varied terrain with our well-trained, quick-to-respond, horses. Basic riding experience required.

Duration: approx 7 hours in total (4 hours on horseback)
Price per person: $18,000

$20,000 (picnic and snacks)

CASCADA DE LOS DIOSES (Waterfall of the Gods) - WALKING

We begin this tour where the Quebrada Honda River spills into the Pacific ocean. The hike follows the path of the rambling river – easy walking at first to a final scramble over large boulders that years passed toppled into the river. Our destination is a serene lagoon with the impressive waterfall on one side. Perfect for swimming, scrambling, exploring, and relaxing.

Duration: approx 6 hours (2 hours there, 2 hours to relax, 2 hours to return)
Price per person: $10,000
$12,000 (picnic and snacks)

 
REGION AND CITY TOURS

 
Still haven´t felt like you have gotten a TRUE picture of Chilean culture? Join us for a region or city tour and we will walk you through Chilean culture in this unspoilt, non-toursity part of Chile.


CONSTITUCIÓN REGION TOUR


Constitución is a traditional town with multi-coloured, adobe houses, an active central square, and a bustling market. You will have opportunities to buy local handicrafts and watch townspeople go about their daily business. Around the city, we will take in the incredible panoramic view from Cerro Mutrun and then head to the seaside to see the black sand beaches, immense and unique rock formations, and thriving bird colonies. Our final stop is at the active pier, where you can get a glimpse of the Chilean fisherman´s life.   

Duration: approx 2.5 hours
Price per person: $4,000

HIGHLIGHTS OF COASTAL CHILE

For a true taste of the Chilean coast, we will visit a variety of off-the-beaten-path sites. You will... meander through typical Chilean villages; explore a nature preserve (which boasts over 150 types of birds!); visit a local fishing pier and functioning lighthouse; walk along a range of cliffs, black sand beaches, and unique rock formations; sample artesanal cheeses and excellent seafood; and pass time watching sea lions in their natural habitat.

Duration: full day
Price per person: $18,000 (lunch not included)

SPIRITUAL AWAKENING

A tour that provides a balance of art, history, ecology, reflection, and peace. A venerated local artist will guide us through his exhibition - ¨Reflections in Wood,¨ and describe his experience as a Chilean artist over the years. We will also stroll through the village of Nirivilo, recognized as a ¨Chilean Typical Village,¨ then be guided through a ¨pacification ritual¨ beside a small stream. Option: to have ¨once¨ (Chilean afternoon tea) in Nirivilo, which includes tea and coffee, homemade cheese, bread, and ¨chancho en pierdra.¨

Duration: approx 5 hours
Price per person: $13,000 (with afternoon tea)

PUTÚ REGION

A trip through ¨small town Chile.¨ We will pass through peaceful villages, countryside with small farms, and traditional fishing villages while explaining the cultural, agricultural, and fishing heritage of the area. For lunch, we´ll stop at a traditional seafood restaurant in the lovely village of Duao. Option: After lunch, you can enjoy a replenishing seawater whirlpool bath($2000). Our final destination is to the Putú sand dunes (see the Putú Dune Adventure section for more information).

Duration: approx 6 – 7 hours, 1 – 2 hours longer by horseback in the dunes
Price per person: $15,000 (dunes in 4x4, lunch not included)
$20,000 (dunes on horseback, lunch not included)

WINE OF THE MAULE

Guess where the most, and most-famous, Chilean wines are produced? Right in our backyard! There are numerous wineries to visit. Together, we’ll create a day perfect for your interests; whether it is to sample the exclusive Carmenere, a wine steeped in tradition, or a personal favourite from home. To add to the day, we’ll pass through small towns and villages and eat at a local restaurant to savour typical food of the region.

Duration: full day
Price per person: $17,000 (lunch and individual winery tour/tasting fees not included)

 BOAT CRUISES – MAULE RIVER

 
In a converted traditional fishing boat, we will cruise along the Maule River where we can admire the forest-covered hills, the tranquillity of the water, and native marine life. We will pass by wonderful spots to jump in, so swimmers may want to pack a suit and towel. A perfect way to relax AND take in the natural surroundings.


RANCHO ASTILLERO

A short cruise to the traditional restaurant - Rancho Astillero, which you can only reach by boat. Here, we will explain while you sample, typical food of the region (i.e. lisa a la teja and chanco en pierdra). A local favourite, and you will learn why!

Duration: approx 3 hours
Price per person: $4,000 (meal not included)

MAQUEHUA

Starting at the mouth of the Maule River in Constitución we head upstream to Maquehua, passing under a railway bridge designed by Eiffel. We stop for lunch at Rancho Astillero (see above) and then continue on to Wolf´s Rock, various waterfalls, and cliffs. A great day on the water!

Duration: approx 6 hours
Price per person: $12,000 (does not include lunch)

 CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE

 
Everyone is different...and we like that! We can be flexible and help you design a tour that is best for you in the time you have. You can combine any of the above tours for an unforgettable experience. Read below for some popular examples. There is always the possibility of tying in a local event or fiesta – call us for more information!


Example 1 ($20,000)

- Constitución City Tour
- Short hiking and swimming in natural pools
- Putú Sand Dunes – Horseback & Bonfire

Example 2 ($15,000)

- Constitución City Tour
- Boat Cruise to Rancho Astillero Restaurant
- Putu Dunes – 4x4 & Bonfire

Example 3 ($20,000)

- Garganta del Elefante Waterfall - Walk
- Putu Dunes – Horseback & Bonfire


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