Castro Sightseeing Tour in Chiloe
Active
3h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Castro is the largest city on the island of Chiloé, and the third oldest city in Chile. This city has beautiful architecture, from its famous palafitos to Church of San Francisco, which was declared a World Heritage Site.
On this half-day tour we will visit several important landmarks of Castro, such as the palafitos of Pedro Montt and Gamboa, the Castro Regional Museum, and the Millantuy viewpoint, among others. Come and explore this fascinating city with us. Book your place now!
Available options
Regular Service
Regular Service<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Air-conditioned vehicle
Hotel pickup and drop-off (centrally located hotels only)
Professional Guide
Donations to Churches
Detailed itinerary
1
We will begin our tour by visiting the palafitos in Pedro Montt. The palafitos are wooden houses with larch tiles that are placed on a pier with thick piles. These houses have two fronts, one towards the street and the other towards the canal, which has an upper terrace that serves as a patio and a lower one that works for fishing activities.
2
Stop 2
We will continue our tour through the Millantuy viewpoint, and then we will go to the Castro Regional Museum. Here we can learn about more than 6000 years of the history of Chiloé.
3
We will also visit the Castro Church, founded in 1567, and continue on our way to the Gamboa Palafitos
4
Stop 4
Finally, we will head south to get to know the Nercon Church, which is a World Heritage Site, and then we will return to our hotels.
What's not included
Lunch and Drinks
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Bring Suitable shoes, Sunscreen and Water if desired
This service is not valid for cruise passengers. These excursions or transfer have a special operation and rate.
Important notes
We suggest you to confirm the booking details with us prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.
OFFICE NUMBER: (+54 11) 3221-8400 (Mon to Sat from 9 to 18 Hs and Sundays from 10 to 19 Hs)
EMERGENCY MOBILE: (+54 911) 4991-4035 (After office hours)
About Castro
Castro is a charming city on Chiloé Island in southern Chile, known for its unique palafitos (stilt houses) and vibrant culture. The city offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and traditional cuisine, making it a unique destination in Patagonia.
Top Attractions
Palafitos de Castro
These iconic stilt houses are a symbol of Castro and Chiloé Island. They are built on stilts over the water and offer a unique glimpse into the local way of life.
Architecture
1-2 hours
Free to walk around; shops and markets have varying prices
Iglesia de Castro
This historic church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fine example of Chiloé's unique wooden architecture.
Historical
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free entry
Mercado de Castro
This bustling market is a great place to experience local culture and sample fresh seafood and traditional dishes.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Varies by purchase
Parque Municipal de Castro
A beautiful park with scenic views of the water and the palafitos. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
Nature
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free entry
Must-Try Local Dishes
Curanto
A traditional Chiloé dish made with a variety of ingredients, including seafood, meat, and vegetables, cooked in a hole in the ground.
Main Dish
Contains seafood and meat; vegetarian versions are available.
Chapalele
A traditional dish made with mashed potatoes, blood, and various meats, often served with a side of chicharrón (fried pork rinds).
Main Dish
Contains meat and blood; not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Milanesa a la Chiloé
A breaded and fried meat cutlet, often served with a side of rice and vegetables.
Main Dish
Contains meat; vegetarian versions are available.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Kayaking
Birdwatching
Beach lounging
Picnicking
Scenic walks
Visiting museums
Attending local festivals
Best Time to Visit
December to February
This is the summer season, with the warmest temperatures and the most daylight. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the island.
12°C to 18°C
54°F to 64°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Chilean Peso (CLP)
Time Zone
CLT (Chile Standard Time, UTC-4)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Castro is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious with ATMs
- • Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas
Getting there
By air
- Miquelón Airport • 5 km from Castro
By bus
Castro Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are the primary mode of public transport in Castro. They are affordable and cover most areas of the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bipo!
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Centro
Punta de Chiloé
Day trips
Chiloé National Park
30 km from Castro • Full day
This national park offers stunning landscapes, including forests, beaches, and coastal cliffs. It's a great place for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the natural beauty of Chiloé Island.
Ancud
50 km from Castro • Half day to full day
Ancud is a charming coastal town with a rich history and beautiful architecture. It's known for its historic fort, museum, and scenic views.
Festivals
Fiestas de Castro • January
Semana Santa (Holy Week) • March or April (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Visit the Mercado de Castro early in the morning for the freshest seafood and produce.
- Take a boat tour to see the palafitos from the water for a unique perspective.
- Try the local seafood dishes, especially curanto, for an authentic taste of Chiloé.
- Bring waterproof clothing and footwear, as the weather can be wet and changeable.
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interaction with locals.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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