Chile: Santiago to Patagonia

Adventure FAQs

Why is it best to book this adventure in advance?

Due to the complex nature of this itinerary – two internal flights, limited off-grid experiences and small, unique accommodation – it can be difficult (though not impossible) for us to secure spots for latecomers. If you’d prefer to avoid the stress of not knowing if you’re ‘in’, booking early will give you the guarantee you need.

Which airport do I need to fly into and out of? Plus airport code

Fly into and out of Santiago International Airport (SCL).

What time should my flight arrive in time for the welcome meeting?

Ideally no later than 2 pm. Check-in at the hotel is from 3pm and the welcome meeting will start at 5 pm.

What time should my flight depart on the last day?

You can depart at leisure on the last day as there are no activities. Check-out of your hotel will be at 11 am. Your Pack Leader can help you book transfers the night before if needed.

Are airport transfers included?

If you arrive on Day 1 of your adventure, or you’ve booked yourself a pre-night at the same hotel the adventure starts from, your airport arrival transfer will be included. Arrival transfers are private to Flash Pack and in groups depending on flight times, so you may have to wait in the airport for a short while.

However, if you’ve booked alternative pre-trip accommodation or are arriving by another mode of transport, you’ll have to arrange your own arrival transfer. 

Please also note: in order to secure your place on the private transfer, you’ll need to provide your flight details to our Customer Experience team no later than 30 days prior to your adventure’s departure date. You’ll get automated email reminders about this, but the team won’t be chasing you. That’s why it’s key to get this information over in good time. If the details are provided later than 30 days pre-departure, you’ll have to arrange your own arrival transfer.

Departure transfers are typically not included due to travellers leaving at varying times. That said, your Pack Leader will happily help arrange departure transfers for you if required.

Do I need a visa?

Up-to-date visa and entry information can be found using our official partner, Sherpa, who can help you arrange a visa if needed.

You can also find essential travel advice – including security and local laws, as well as passport and visa information – on the government website of your home country:

• UK residents: review the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice before your adventure.
• US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice for important travel information.
• Australian residents: check the Smart Traveler website for up-to-date travel advice.
• Residents of other countries: refer to the travel advice provided by your own government or local consulate.

Please be aware that passport and visa requirements can change before departure, so it’s important to stay updated with the latest information.

What vaccinations and medication will I need?

While we are not medical professionals and cannot offer personalised medical advice, we want to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable adventure. Here are some tips to help you prepare.

1. Consult with a healthcare professional

We recommend scheduling an appointment with your travel nurse or doctor at least eight weeks before your adventure. This will give you ample time to receive any necessary vaccines or medications.

2. Up-to-date medical advice

• UK residents: visit the NHS Fit For Travel website for the latest medical advice.
• US residents: check the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for specialised health information.
• Australian residents: refer to the Smart Traveler Health website for current medical advice.

3. Government travel advice

• UK residents: review the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice before your adventure.
• US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice for important travel information.
• Australian residents: check the Smart Traveler website for up-to-date travel advice.

4. Medication tips

If you take prescription medication, ensure you bring enough to last the entire adventure, plus a few extra days in case of travel delays. Carry a copy of your prescription with you in case you need to visit a clinic while abroad.

We hope this information will help you prepare for a safe and healthy adventure.

Are tips included?

Please note that tips are not included in the cost of this adventure. Suggested amounts per person are:

• Pack Leader: 20 USD per day
• Drivers: 15 USD per day
• Local tips: your Pack Leader will be able to advise on how much to tip local guides, restaurants, etc. Some Pack Leaders will collect a tipping kitty at the welcome meeting to take care of local tips.

However, all tips are at your discretion depending on what you feel comfortable with.

What fitness levels do I need for this trip?

This is one of our more challenging trips due to the amount of hiking involved. Due to the degree of effort and difficulty for the hiking excursions, we do not recommend this trip to pregnant women or anyone unfit, or with severe health problems.We recommend having a read-through of the itinerary above, and getting in touch if you have specific questions on fitness.

What are the transfer times like?

Chile is a huge (and particularly long) country so long travel days are to be expected. They are, however, exceptionally scenic and we’ve added some great stops along the way to break up longer drives. There are also three domestic flights included, which may require early starts on flight days.

Will my itinerary change?

Due to seasonality, there are a few scheduled changes to this itinerary worth noting.

If departing on 27/28 April or 4 May, on Day 5 you’ll go trekking in the stunning Lahuen Ñady Natural Monument as the Alerce Andino National Park will be closed to the public. Also, if Day 1 of your adventure falls on a Sunday, rather than a walking tour of Lastarria, you’ll enjoy the bohemian delights of Santiago’s Bellavista neighborhood.

If departing on our 9 November 2024, please note that you’ll be staying three nights in Puerto Natales instead of two nights in Puerto Natales plus one night in Torres del Paine, due to limited availability within the national park.

Please be aware that other elements of the itinerary, activities and hotels are also subject to change. These changes can happen with little notice due to availability, poor weather, seasonal changes, or other circumstances beyond our control. From time to time we may also make changes to your itinerary to try out new ideas and keep things fresh.