Who doesn’t love a good road trip? Waking up before dawn to hit the open road before rush hour kicks in. Tucking away an emergency padkos (snacks made in preparation for a long journey) for those peckish moments and kicking the trip off with piping hot wake-you-up coffees from your favourite local barista. Stopping en route at random stalls, markets and eateries along the way for your favourite roadside takeaways. And of course, enjoying the scenery … and each other. The best part of a road trip isn’t always the end destination, it’s the adventure that happens in between.
The ultimate in luxury road trips, guests exploring the natural beauty of Chile and Argentina can now enjoy private-guided overland small group journeys with &Beyond South America. Covering two iconic and sought-after destinations, guests can opt for either the Wine and Country Expedition or the Patagonia Lakes Expedition, each with its own unforgettable highlights and truly captivating scenery.
Travelling in style, small groups of just four to ten guests can relax, unwind and enjoy the comfort of either a (wifi-enabled) Land Rover Discovery 4 or a Discovery Sport, while renowned expert private &Beyond guide, Gary James, hosts them on one of these 11-day off-the-beaten-path bucket list adventures. The luxury vehicles were chosen specifically for the spacious comfort they provide for those long stretches of highway, as well as their ability to effortlessly traverse the rugged off-road terrain.
With three exclusive set departures for 2018 to choose from (Wine and Country Expedition: 19 March or 15 October 2018; or Patagonia Lakes Expedition on 27 October 2018), this is the perfect way to explore the timeless beauty, pristine landscapes and hidden gems of Chile and Argentina.
Wine & country expedition
The adventure kicks off in Santiago, Chile’s dynamic capital, with a fascinating exploration of the city’s barrios. This insider tour provides entertaining insight into the origins of the city and its expansion over the course of the last 200 years.
The second leg of the journey focuses on Chile’s award-winning wine country, with stops at some of the country’s most innovative wineries. Constantly evolving, Chilean wines are forever being tweaked and improved, and grape varieties rediscovered.
Heading south, the next stop is Pucón, renowned for its sprawling natural beauty and cultural highlights. Stay on a 40-hectare organic farm, sample respected wines, feast on freshly grown produce, burn off some energy with a wide assortment of guided outdoor adventure activities and experience the art, cuisine and culture of the Mapuche, Chile’s main ethnic group.
The journey then continues south to the Lakes region of Argentina, with memorable excursions to San Martin de Los Andes and the legendary town of Bariloche, which is dominated by towering peaks and crystal clear lakes. It feels as though you’re driving through a real-life painting, surrounded by majestic mountains, verdant forests, cascading waterfalls, rich heritage, winding roads and the big open sky.
Patagonia lakes expedition
Starting in Puerto Varas, a charming town steeped in history, stroll past the German-inspired architecture, lush gardens and quaint shops. Then venture south, deep into the heart of northern Patagonia, where snow-capped volcanoes and ancient lush forests abound.
Next, discover Pumalín Park and learn all about its ongoing conservation projects before heading south to Futaleufú, a small town made famous for its river and world-class rafting. Cross into Argentina to witness the legendary Bariloche and the ruggedly beautiful outdoor playground of San Martin de Los Andes.
The expedition ends back in Chile, in the lush and enchanting Huilo-Huilo Biological Reserve, situated in the middle of the Chilean Patagonian rainforest.
All you need to do is choose your own adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.
Adventure awaits…
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