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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.
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| THE
CHILEAN SOUP TOUR |
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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)
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| PUTÚ
DUNES ADVENTURE
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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)
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| WATERFALLS
AND NATURE EXPLORATION |
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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)
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| REGION
AND CITY TOURS |
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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)
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| BOAT
CRUISES – MAULE RIVER |
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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)
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| CHOOSE
YOUR OWN ADVENTURE |
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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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©
2004 Ruta Verde Corporation.Reservados todos los derechos
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