Travelers to Chile typically plan a trip for 12 to 15 days when combining Santiago, Easter Island, and the Atacama Desert with Torres del Paine. If you’re not interested in Torres del Paine, 10 to 13 days is enough for your Santiago, Easter Island, and Atacama Desert trip. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as a week to nine days. For the best itineraries, including Santiago, Easter Island, and the Atacama Desert, keep reading below.
## Exploring the Wonders of Santiago, Easter Island & the Atacama Desert: A Comprehensive Guide
Many travelers dream of experiencing the diverse landscapes and rich culture of Chile. A journey encompassing Santiago, Easter Island, and the Atacama Desert offers a truly unforgettable adventure. But how many days should you dedicate to this incredible itinerary?
Generally, travelers find that a combined trip to Santiago, Easter Island, and the Atacama Desert ideally requires between 10 and 13 days. This timeframe allows for a comfortable pace, providing ample opportunity to soak in the unique atmosphere of each destination without feeling overly rushed.
Is it possible to experience these incredible locations in a shorter timeframe? Absolutely. Visiting Santiago, Easter Island, and the Atacama Desert in 7 to 9 days is achievable, but be prepared for a whirlwind tour. This condensed itinerary will necessitate prioritizing key sights and minimizing travel time between destinations. It’s a great option for those with limited vacation time, but it’s important to understand that it will feel more hurried.
For those fortunate enough to have more time to explore, a trip of 14 days or more opens up a world of possibilities. With this extra time, most travelers choose to extend their journey and incorporate additional stops into their Chilean adventure. These extensions allow for a deeper immersion into the country’s diverse offerings, providing a more comprehensive and enriching travel experience.
One of the most common and highly recommended extensions is a visit to the breathtaking Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia. This iconic park offers stunning mountain vistas, pristine glacial lakes, and incredible hiking opportunities, making it a perfect complement to the desert landscapes of the Atacama and the cultural intrigue of Easter Island.
## Exploring Recommended Itineraries for Santiago, Easter Island & the Atacama Desert
To help you plan your dream trip, here are some recommended itineraries of varying lengths, showcasing the highlights of Santiago, Easter Island, and the Atacama Desert:
### Recommended Itinerary for 10 Days: A Chilean Trilogy
This 10-day itinerary presents a journey from Chile’s vibrant capital city to two of its most captivating and isolated destinations.
**Day 1:** Your adventure begins with your arrival in Santiago de Chile, a bustling metropolis nestled against the backdrop of the Andes Mountains. You’ll spend the night in Santiago.
**Day 2:** Immerse yourself in the heart of the city with a comprehensive Santiago City Tour. Explore historical landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and gain an appreciation for the city’s rich cultural heritage. Another night in Santiago awaits.
**Day 3:** Embark on a full-day excursion to the colorful seaside towns of Valparaíso & Viña del Mar, both located just a short distance from Santiago. Valparaíso’s vibrant street art and bohemian atmosphere contrast beautifully with Viña del Mar’s elegant architecture and pristine beaches. You’ll then return to Santiago for the night.
**Day 4:** Prepare for a dramatic change of scenery as you board a flight to Easter Island, one of the most remote and enigmatic islands on Earth. Settle into your accommodations and prepare to delve into the mysteries of this Polynesian paradise. The night is spent on Easter Island.
**Day 5:** Delve into the island’s fascinating history and culture with a visit to Orongo Ceremonial Village, perched on the edge of the Rano Kau Volcano. Explore the ancient ruins and learn about the unique traditions of the Rapa Nui people. Continue with an Akivi Excursion, witnessing the iconic moai statues that stand as silent sentinels overlooking the landscape. Another night on Easter Island.
**Day 6:** Enjoy a free day on Easter Island to explore at your own pace. Relax on the beaches, hike to hidden archaeological sites, or simply soak in the unique atmosphere of this incredible island. Spend the night on Easter Island.
**Day 7:** Your journey continues as you fly from Easter Island to San Pedro de Atacama, the gateway to the Atacama Desert. Prepare to be amazed by the stark beauty and otherworldly landscapes of the driest desert on Earth. Rest and prepare for the adventures to come in San Pedro de Atacama.
**Day 8:** Embark on a Moon & Death Valley Excursion, exploring the surreal rock formations, towering sand dunes, and panoramic vistas that define these iconic desert landscapes. Witness the breathtaking sunset over the Valley of the Moon, a truly unforgettable experience. Stay overnight in San Pedro de Atacama.
**Day 9:** Enjoy another free day in San Pedro de Atacama, allowing you to explore the town’s charming streets, visit local craft shops, or embark on an optional Tatio Geyser Excursion. Witness the spectacle of these geothermal wonders erupting at sunrise, a truly unique and awe-inspiring sight. Another night in San Pedro de Atacama awaits.
**Day 10:** Your Chilean adventure concludes as you depart from San Pedro de Atacama, carrying with you memories of incredible landscapes, ancient cultures, and unforgettable experiences.
This itinerary provides a balanced introduction to Chile’s diverse offerings, from the urban energy of Santiago to the ancient mysteries of Easter Island and the stark beauty of the Atacama Desert.
### Recommended Itinerary for 11 Days: Culture, Nature, and Adventure
This 11-day Chilean itinerary combines monumental archaeological mysteries, stunning natural phenomena, and the vibrant energy of urban life.
**Day 1:** Arrive in Santiago and take some time to explore the city at your leisure. Santiago offers a blend of modern architecture and historical charm, providing a captivating introduction to Chilean culture. The night is spent in Santiago.
**Day 2:** Delve deeper into Santiago’s history and culture with a captivating Santiago Walking Tour. Discover hidden gems, learn about the city’s past, and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. Another night in Santiago.
**Day 3:** Fly to San Pedro de Atacama and experience the desert landscape from a unique perspective with a Horseback Riding excursion. Traverse the dunes and canyons, taking in the breathtaking scenery and enjoying the tranquility of the desert. Spend the night in San Pedro de Atacama.
**Day 4:** Witness the raw power of nature at the Atacama Desert Geysers & Hot Springs. Explore the El Tatio geyser field at sunrise, where steaming columns of water erupt into the crisp morning air. Then, relax and rejuvenate in the soothing waters of the Puritama Hot Springs. Another night in San Pedro de Atacama.
**Day 5:** Experience the magic of the Atacama Desert from above with a Hot-Air Balloon ride. Soar over the surreal landscapes and witness the sunrise paint the desert in a myriad of colors. In the evening, marvel at the wonders of the universe at a Planetarium Night Sky experience. Spend the night in San Pedro de Atacama.
**Day 6:** Explore the otherworldly landscapes of Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley), a geological marvel that resembles the surface of the moon. In the afternoon, fly back to Santiago, reflecting on the incredible experiences of the Atacama Desert. Spend the night in Santiago.
**Day 7:** Fly to Easter Island and immerse yourself in the local culture with an Easter Island Cooking Class. Learn to prepare traditional Rapa Nui dishes and savor the flavors of this unique Polynesian island. Spend the night on Easter Island.
**Day 8:** Witness the sunrise over the iconic moai statues at Tongariki, a truly unforgettable sight. Afterward, explore the Orongo ceremonial village, learning about the island’s fascinating history and cultural traditions. Another night on Easter Island.
**Day 9:** Discover more of Easter Island’s Archaeological Sites & Anakena Beach. Explore ancient ruins, learn about the Rapa Nui people’s ingenuity, and relax on the pristine sands of Anakena Beach. Spend another night on Easter Island.
**Day 10:** Return to Santiago and enjoy a Free Afternoon to relax, explore, or indulge in some souvenir shopping. Spend the night in Santiago.
**Day 11:** Conclude your Chilean adventure with a Santiago Bike & Wine Tour, exploring the city’s vineyards and sampling local wines. Afterward, depart from Santiago, carrying with you memories of an incredible journey.
This itinerary offers a dynamic adventure through South America and across the South Pacific, combining cultural immersion with breathtaking natural landscapes.
### Recommended Itinerary for 12 Days: A Comprehensive Chilean Journey
This 12-day trip to Chile takes you through a diverse range of landscapes and experiences, from the bustling capital city to the vast desert landscapes, charming coastal towns, and ancient islands.
**Day 1:** Arrive in Santiago and explore the city at your leisure. Take in the sights and sounds of the capital, preparing for the adventures to come. Spend the night in Santiago.
**Day 2:** Fly to San Pedro de Atacama and embark on a Stargazing Tour, marveling at the incredibly clear night sky and learning about the constellations. Spend the night in San Pedro de Atacama.
**Day 3:** Explore the Atacama Desert, visiting stunning Lagoons & Salt Flats. Witness the unique flora and fauna adapted to this harsh environment, and marvel at the vibrant colors of the lagoons. Spend the night in San Pedro de Atacama.
**Day 4:** Tour El Tatio Geysers at sunrise, witnessing the spectacle of these geothermal wonders erupting into the morning air. Return to Santiago in the afternoon, reflecting on the beauty of the Atacama Desert. Spend the night in Santiago.
**Day 5:** Embark on a comprehensive Santiago City Tour, exploring the city’s historical landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and cultural attractions. Spend the night in Santiago.
**Day 6:** Take a day trip to the coastal neighboring towns of Viña del Mar & Valparaíso, experiencing the contrasting atmospheres of these charming seaside destinations. Return to Santiago for the night.
**Day 7:** Tour the stunning Maipo Valley, known for its picturesque vineyards and award-winning wines. Indulge in wine tasting and learn about the winemaking process. Spend the night in Santiago.
**Day 8:** Fly to Easter Island and enjoy Optional Activities upon arrival, such as relaxing on the beach or exploring the town of Hanga Roa. Spend the night on Easter Island.
**Day 9:** Embark on a Rapa Nui Full-Day Tour, discovering the island’s iconic moai statues and learning about its fascinating history and culture. Spend the night on Easter Island.
**Day 10:** Explore Orongo & Ahu Akivi, two of Easter Island’s most important archaeological sites. Learn about the ancient Rapa Nui civilization and the mysteries surrounding the moai statues. Spend the night on Easter Island.
**Day 11:** Enjoy a Free Day on Easter Island to explore at your own pace, relax on the beaches, or delve deeper into the island’s unique culture. Spend the night on Easter Island.
**Day 12:** Depart from Santiago, carrying with you memories of a comprehensive Chilean adventure.
This itinerary offers a well-rounded experience, combining the cultural highlights of Santiago with the natural beauty of the Atacama Desert and the historical intrigue of Easter Island.
### Recommended Itinerary for 13 Days: Desert Skies and Island Mysteries
This 13-day trip combines two incredible destinations in Chile, offering a unique blend of adventure and cultural immersion.
**Day 1:** Arrive in Santiago de Chile and explore the city at your leisure, soaking in the atmosphere and preparing for your upcoming adventures. Spend the night in Santiago.
**Day 2:** Fly to Easter Island and enjoy Optional Activities upon arrival, such as relaxing on the beach or exploring the town of Hanga Roa. Spend the night on Easter Island.
**Day 3:** Embark on an Easter Island: Highlights Tour, discovering the island’s most iconic moai statues and learning about its fascinating history and culture. Spend the night on Easter Island.
**Day 4:** Explore Orongo & Ahu Akivi, two of Easter Island’s most important archaeological sites, delving deeper into the mysteries of the Rapa Nui civilization. Spend the night on Easter Island.
**Day 5:** Enjoy a Free Day on Easter Island to explore at your own pace, discover hidden gems, or simply relax and soak in the island’s unique atmosphere. Spend the night on Easter Island.
**Day 6:** Return to Santiago, reflecting on the incredible experiences of Easter Island. Spend the night in Santiago.
**Day 7:** Transfer to San Pedro de Atacama and embark on a Stargazing Tour, marveling at the incredibly clear night sky and learning about the constellations. Spend the night in San Pedro de Atacama.
**Day 8:** Explore the otherworldly landscapes of Moon & Death Valleys, witnessing the surreal rock formations and panoramic vistas that define these iconic desert landscapes. Spend the night in San Pedro de Atacama.
**Day 9:** Embark on an Atacama Desert Tour, visiting stunning Lagoons & Salt Flats and discovering the unique flora and fauna adapted to this harsh environment. Spend the night in San Pedro de Atacama.
**Day 10:** Visit the Tatio Geysers at sunrise, witnessing the spectacle of these geothermal wonders erupting into the morning air. Explore Machuca Village, a traditional Andean village, and relax in the Puritama Hot Springs. Spend the night in San Pedro de Atacama.
**Day 11:** Fly to Santiago and enjoy a Free Afternoon to relax, explore, or indulge in some souvenir shopping. Spend the night in Santiago.
**Day 12:** Take a Day Trip to Viña del Mar & Valparaiso, experiencing the contrasting atmospheres of these charming coastal towns and enjoying the stunning ocean views. Return to Santiago for the night.
**Day 13:** Depart from Santiago, carrying with you memories of an unforgettable Chilean adventure.
This itinerary combines the ancient mysteries of Easter Island with the otherworldly landscapes of the Atacama Desert, offering a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
## Extended Itineraries: Venturing Further into Chile
For those with more time to explore, consider these extended itineraries that incorporate additional destinations and experiences:
### 13-Day Itinerary Including Puerto Natales, Torres del Paine & Punta Arenas: A Patagonian Adventure
This 13-day itinerary expands your Chilean adventure to include the stunning landscapes of Patagonia.
**Days 1-4:** Follow the same itinerary as the first four days of the 13-Day Atacama Desert and Easter Island itinerary, arriving in Santiago and then exploring the Atacama Desert.
**Day 5:** Fly to Punta Arenas, the southernmost city in Chilean Patagonia, and embark on a Self-Guided Tour, exploring the city’s historical landmarks and enjoying the unique Patagonian atmosphere. Spend the night in Punta Arenas.
**Day 6:** Travel from Punta Arenas to Torres del Paine National Park and embark on a Full-Day Excursion, taking in the breathtaking scenery and witnessing the iconic granite peaks that define the park. Spend the night in Puerto Natales, a charming town located near the park entrance.
**Day 7:** Embark on a challenging but rewarding Trekking to the Base of the Towers, the iconic granite peaks of Torres del Paine. Witness the stunning views and experience the raw beauty of the Patagonian landscape. Spend the night in Puerto Natales.
**Day 8:** Explore Torres del Paine National Park at your own pace, choosing from a variety of hiking trails and viewpoints to discover the park’s diverse landscapes. Spend the night in Torres del Paine.
**Day 9:** Return to Santiago, reflecting on the incredible experiences of Patagonia. Enjoy a Free Afternoon to relax or explore the city. Spend the night in Santiago.
**Days 10-13:** Follow the same itinerary as the last four days of the 13-Day Atacama Desert and Easter Island itinerary, flying to Easter Island and exploring its iconic archaeological sites. On day 13, depart from Santiago.
This itinerary combines the stark beauty of the Atacama Desert with the dramatic landscapes of Patagonia and the ancient mysteries of Easter Island, offering a truly comprehensive Chilean adventure.
### 2-Week Itinerary Including Puerto Natales & Torres del Paine: A Grand Chilean Exploration
This 2-week itinerary offers a deep dive into Chile’s diverse landscapes and cultures, combining the highlights of the north, south, and Easter Island.
**Days 1-6:** Follow the same itinerary as the first six days of the 13-Day Itinerary including Puerto Natales, Torres del Paine & Punta Arenas.
**Day 7:** Travel from Santiago to Patagonia, settling in at Torres del Paine National Park. Prepare for the adventures to come. Spend the night in Torres del Paine.
**Day 8:** Embark on a challenging but rewarding Trekking to the Base of the Towers, experiencing the raw beauty of the Patagonian landscape and witnessing the iconic granite peaks. Spend the night in Puerto Natales.
**Day 9:** Enjoy a Free Day in Torres del Paine, exploring the park at your own pace and discovering its hidden gems. Spend the night in Torres del Paine.
**Day 10:** Fly to Santiago and enjoy a Free Afternoon to relax, explore, or indulge in some souvenir shopping. Spend the night in Santiago.
**Days 11-14:** Follow the same itinerary as the last four days of the 13-Day Itinerary including Puerto Natales, Torres del Paine & Punta Arenas, flying to Easter Island and exploring its iconic archaeological sites. On day 14, depart from Santiago.
This itinerary offers the most comprehensive Chilean experience, combining the urban energy of Santiago, the stark beauty of the Atacama Desert, the dramatic landscapes of Patagonia, and the ancient mysteries of Easter Island.
## How to Travel Between Santiago, Easter Island & Atacama Desert: Essential Transportation Tips
Planning the logistics of traveling between these diverse destinations is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here’s a guide to getting around:
**How to get to Santiago de Chile:**
Santiago is a major transportation hub in South America, making it easily accessible from around the world. Depending on your origin, the city can be reached by car, plane, and sometimes by bus. Its modern airport receives flights from major international and domestic carriers.
**How to get to Easter Island:**
Reaching Easter Island in the Pacific Ocean is best accomplished by flying to Mataveri International Airport (IPC). Flights are readily available from Santiago and some of Chile’s surrounding countries, such as Argentina and Peru.
**How to get to Atacama:**
The Atacama Desert, specifically San Pedro de Atacama, is known for its majestic desert landscapes. While flying to a nearby airport and then transferring is an option, other methods of transportation exist. Consider bus travel from various Chilean cities.
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