San Juan, Tenaun, Colo, Aucar Island of Navigating Souls
Active
7h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Chiloé with our excursion "Exploring the Heritage of Chiloé: San Juan, Tenaun and Colo". Immerse yourself in the island's rich history and traditions as you visit the impressive World Heritage churches in San Juan, Tenaún and Colo. Each stop offers you a window to the past, where devotion and architecture come together to tell you the most fascinating stories of Chiloé.
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views, explore coastal wetlands and tour the magical Aucar Island, known as the "Island of Navigating Souls." This tour will not only allow you to appreciate the architectural and cultural heritage of Chiloé, but also connect with its unique natural beauty.
Available options
San Juan, Tenaun, Colo, Aucar Island of Navigating Souls
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
The tour starts with the pick up from the hotels.
You will enjoy a panoramic trip to the charming town of San Juan for approximately 1 hour.
2
First stop is the charming town of San Juan, where we will visit its historic church, a World Heritage Site. Admire the traditional shingle architecture and explore the local shipyards, where the island's iconic wooden boats are built.
3
Tenaún, a picturesque coastal town where you will visit the Church of Tenaún, a World Heritage Site. Admire its imposing presence, a symbol of the Chilote faith and community, and enjoy the panoramic views of the inland sea and the serenity of the surroundings.
4
In Colo you will visit another impressive World Heritage church. This masterpiece of Chilote architecture, with unique details, reflects the dedication of generations. Enjoy the surrounding agricultural landscapes and forests for an authentic and tranquil island experience.
5
We will make a brief stop on the magical Aucar Island, the "Island of Navigating Souls". Linked to the mainland by a picturesque wooden bridge, this island offers peace and reflection, with trails surrounded by nature and spectacular views.
6
The picturesque town of Quemchi, where you will explore its charming center, meet its vibrant community and enjoy its natural surroundings. Quemchi combines history, culture and scenic beauty, offering the perfect closure to this heritage route.
7
At the end in Quemchi, we will return to Castro to take you back to your hotel, thus concluding this enriching heritage route through Chiloé.
What's not included
Lunch and Drinks
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.5
4 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
Instant confirmation
