Full-Day Coastal Escape: Beaches, Penguins & Seaside Towns

Valparaíso , Chile

Full-Day Coastal Escape: Beaches, Penguins & Seaside Towns

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(6 reviews)

7h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the lesser-known treasures of Chile’s North Coast on this full-day excursion combining nature, wildlife, and charming coastal towns.

Zapallar – Wander through this exclusive seaside town, admired for its elegant homes, pristine bay, and peaceful atmosphere.

Cachagua – Enjoy stunning views of Cachagua Island, a natural sanctuary where Humboldt penguins and seabirds thrive.

Maitencillo – Experience the lively beachside vibe of Maitencillo, a favorite destination for surfers and seafood lovers.

Local experience – Indulge in a fresh seafood lunch by the ocean (optional, not included) and connect with authentic coastal traditions.

This journey blends golden beaches, penguin spotting, and picturesque seaside towns—an unforgettable way to explore Chile’s North Coast.

Available options

Full-Day Coastal Escape: Beaches, Penguins & Seaside Towns

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Nature sanctuary, breathtaking views of Valparaiso and the millenary dunes of Concón from a height of 120 m high!

Horcón is one of the most picturesque fishing villages on the entire central coast of Chile. Located in a protected bay, the boats are pulled out of the water using horses.

Lunch at Maitencillo seaside resort, opposite the fish market.

The coastal promenade where you will discover the beautiful beach “Las Cujas” and the Penguin Island of Humboldt, declared a Natural Reserve.

The most exclusive resorts in the country, Zapallar and Cachagua, resorts that stand out for their luxury homes, gardens and landscapes.

It takes between 1h and 1h30 for the return to Valparaiso. We will pass through the "Joyful Valley" or "Valle Alegre".

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Valparaíso

Valparaíso is a vibrant coastal city known for its colorful hillside houses, bohemian culture, and historic port. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its unique urban landscape and rich artistic heritage. The city's steep hills, funiculars, and panoramic views make it a captivating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Historic Quarter of Valparaíso

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the heart of Valparaíso, featuring colorful houses, historic funiculars, and a rich maritime history.

Historical/Cultural Half day to full day Free to explore, entry fees for specific attractions

Muelle Prat

A historic pier and waterfront area in Valparaíso, offering beautiful views of the harbor and the city's colorful hills.

Historical/Scenic 1-2 hours Free to explore

Paseo 21 de Mayo

A scenic walkway along the waterfront, offering panoramic views of the harbor and the city's hills.

Scenic/Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore

Cerro Santa Lucía

One of the many hills in Valparaíso, offering panoramic views of the city and the harbor. It's home to historic buildings and lush gardens.

Scenic/Historical 1-2 hours Free to explore

Museo Marítimo Nacional

A maritime museum showcasing the history of Chile's navy and Valparaíso's role as a major port city.

Museum/Historical 1-2 hours CLP 2,000 to CLP 3,000 (USD 3 to USD 4)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pescado Frito

Fried fish, typically served with rice, salad, and a squeeze of lime. A popular seafood dish in Valparaíso.

Dinner Contains gluten (if served with breadcrumbs)

Chorrillana

A hearty dish consisting of fried onions, French fries, and various types of meat, often topped with a fried egg.

Dinner Contains meat and dairy (if topped with cheese)

Empanadas de Pino

Baked or fried pastries filled with a mixture of ground beef, onions, olives, and spices.

Snack Contains gluten and meat

Pastel de Choclo

A savory pie made with ground corn, chicken, beef, and spices. A traditional Chilean dish.

Dinner Contains gluten (if made with a crust) and meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in the surrounding hills Parasailing and jet skiing at the beach Surfing at Reñaca Beach Beach activities in Viña del Mar Wine tasting in nearby vineyards Spa treatments and wellness retreats Visiting museums and art galleries Exploring historic neighborhoods

Best Time to Visit

November to March (summer)

This is the warmest and driest time of year, perfect for exploring the city and enjoying the beaches. The city is lively with festivals and events.

18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F) 64°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Chilean Peso (CLP)

Time Zone

CLT (Chile Standard Time, UTC-4) or CLST (Chile Summer Time, UTC-3) depending on the season

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas and at night

Valparaíso is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation. Exercise caution at night, especially in less touristy areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable taxi services and agree on fares beforehand
• Be cautious of distractions and common scams

Getting there

By air

Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport • 110 km (68 miles) from Valparaíso
Viña del Mar International Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from Valparaíso

By train

Valparaíso Station

By bus

Valparaíso Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The Merval bus system is the primary mode of public transportation in Valparaíso. It's affordable and covers most of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Cabify

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Cerro Alegre Cerro Concepción El Plan Viña del Mar

Day trips

Viña del Mar

15 km (9 miles) • Half day to full day

Viña del Mar is a popular coastal town adjacent to Valparaíso, known for its beautiful beaches, upscale resorts, and vibrant nightlife.

Isla Negra

80 km (50 miles) • Full day

Isla Negra is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic lighthouse, and the former home of Nobel Prize-winning poet Pablo Neruda.

Santiago

120 km (75 miles) • Full day to overnight

Santiago is the capital of Chile and offers a variety of cultural, historical, and culinary attractions. It's a great destination for those interested in exploring Chile's vibrant capital city.

Festivals

Valparaíso International Film Festival (FICValparaíso) • November to December Festival de Viña del Mar • February

Pro tips

Explore the city's historic quarter on foot or by funicular to experience its unique urban landscape and vibrant culture
Visit Pablo Neruda's houses to gain insight into the life and work of the Nobel Prize-winning poet and his connection to Valparaíso
Try local seafood dishes, such as Pescado Frito and Curanto, at the city's many seafood restaurants and markets
Take a boat tour or fishing excursion to experience Valparaíso's rich maritime history and stunning coastal scenery
Attend local festivals and events, such as the Valparaíso International Film Festival and the Festival de Viña del Mar, to immerse yourself in the city's vibrant cultural scene