Surfing, hiking, and whales: adventure in the central-southern part of Chile
Updated on 2 de January, 2026
Sea, mountains, and whales in the heart of Chile
4 DAYS
Experience pure adrenaline and natural connection in the south-central region. From world-class surfing in Pichilemu to waterfall trekking at Radal Siete Tazas. Taste ancestral wines in Chillán and marvel at whale watching in Caleta Chome. The perfect journey for adventurers and lovers of marine biodiversity.
DISTANCE
493 km
DAYS
4 days
LANDSCAPES
Inicio del itinerario
Attractions included on this day
Day 1
River, sea, and adrenaline
Start your Christmas day with an unforgettable experience of SUP sailing at the mouth of the Rapel River.
Then, continue your way to the best place in the world for surf, Pichilemu. You will find several schools that will give you everything you need to learn and do this sport which is full of adrenaline. You do not have to be an expert. You can enjoy the sea according to your knowledge level. Take a risk and dominate the waves!
Attractions included on this day
Day 1
River, sea, and adrenaline
Start your Christmas day with an unforgettable experience of SUP sailing at the mouth of the Rapel River.
Then, continue your way to the best place in the world for surf, Pichilemu. You will find several schools that will give you everything you need to learn and do this sport which is full of adrenaline. You do not have to be an expert. You can enjoy the sea according to your knowledge level. Take a risk and dominate the waves!
Attractions included on this day
Day 2
Nature and waterfalls
On the second day, we recommend you start early for a whole day at the Radal Siete Tazas National Park. Located in the foothills of Los Andes, you will find multiple trails that take you to waterfalls and viewpoints of them.
Among the must-sees that you can visit are the “Bride’s Vail”, Salto La Leona, Laguna de las Ánimas, El Bolsón, and, of course, Siete Tazas, a place you will never forget.
Attractions included on this day
Day 2
Nature and waterfalls
On the second day, we recommend you start early for a whole day at the Radal Siete Tazas National Park. Located in the foothills of Los Andes, you will find multiple trails that take you to waterfalls and viewpoints of them.
Among the must-sees that you can visit are the “Bride’s Vail”, Salto La Leona, Laguna de las Ánimas, El Bolsón, and, of course, Siete Tazas, a place you will never forget.
Day 3
Culture and wine
On day 3, give yourself a well-deserved rest discovering one of the great attractions of Chile: wine. To do this, head to Chillán and visit the vineyards from the 16th century which are still in operation today.
You should end the day with a wine tasting of ancestral wines and iconic grapevines from the area, such as Moscatel de Alejandría, País, and Cinsault. If you want to know more about the culture of the “Chilean countryside”, you can also learn about the handmade wickerwork made in the area or visit the San José de Ranquil Museum.
Day 3
Culture and wine
On day 3, give yourself a well-deserved rest discovering one of the great attractions of Chile: wine. To do this, head to Chillán and visit the vineyards from the 16th century which are still in operation today.
You should end the day with a wine tasting of ancestral wines and iconic grapevines from the area, such as Moscatel de Alejandría, País, and Cinsault. If you want to know more about the culture of the “Chilean countryside”, you can also learn about the handmade wickerwork made in the area or visit the San José de Ranquil Museum.
Attractions included on this day
Day 4
Whale Watching
To finish the trip, go to Caleta Chome, where you will watch a unique show: the WhaleSwim.
Make the best of your morning and go on a guided boat trip to see these animals at close range and without disturbing their surroundings. After this, you can go to the fishing bay to eat and try the delicious local cuisine.
Attractions included on this day
Day 4
Whale Watching
To finish the trip, go to Caleta Chome, where you will watch a unique show: the WhaleSwim.
Make the best of your morning and go on a guided boat trip to see these animals at close range and without disturbing their surroundings. After this, you can go to the fishing bay to eat and try the delicious local cuisine.
What you should know
How to get there by air
Fly to Carriel Sur Airport (CCP) in Concepción to finish the southern leg or Santiago Airport (SCL) to start in the north. Both terminals offer car rentals and private transfers, facilitating a quick connection between the surf coast and Andean national parks.
How to get there by land
From Santiago, take Route 78 to Navidad and Pichilemu. Then, connect with Route 5 South to reach Siete Tazas, Chillán, and finally Concepción towards Caleta Chome. Roads are paved, but caution is recommended in the foothills and rural coastal areas due to curves and slopes.
Climate and clothing
Mediterranean climate with coastal winds. Dress in layers, use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Bring a swimsuit, trekking shoes, and a windbreaker jacket, essential for navigation and cool mornings in the mountains.
Must-Know Tips
Carry cash and travel insurance. Book whale watching and vineyard tours in advance. Leave no trash and prefer Sernatur registered guides to ensure your safety and the protection of local ecosystems throughout your journey.
