Chiloé Island (8,394 km², 3241 sq mi), is the second largest island in Chile (and South America), after the Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego. This beautiful archipelago situated south of Puerto Montt, linked to the mainland by ferries, which cross the Chacao channel, is definitely a world apart. Whether on dry land or in their remarkable boats, Chiloe islanders live together with the sea and their fascinating legends. Chiloe is an archipelago made up of many islands. One encounters wonderfully structured old churches; colorful markets full of sea and agricultural produce, knitted goods, woven baskets, ornaments and thick pure wool blankets. Chiloe's unique and delicious local cuisine features Curanto; a local dish consisting of all sorts of shell fish, smoked meats and pork steamed over hot stones sunk into the ground. In part because of its physical isolation from the rest of Chile, Chiloé has a very special architecture and local culture. It has a rich folklore with many mythological animals and spirits. The Spanish, who arrived in the 16th century, and the Jesuit missionaries who followed, constructed hundreds of small wooden churches in an attempt to bring God to a pagan land; the result was a mixing of Catholic and pagan beliefs. These unique buildings have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 1: Puerto Montt - Chiloé Island
This tour begins with a private transfer from Puerto Montt to Chiloé. A two-hour journey (incl. a 30 min. ferry ride) will take us to Ancud. This area is steeped in history and it was here that Spaniards made their second to last stand in all of the Americas. After having lunch, during which you will have a historical discussion with your guide, we will depart into the countryside. An area of deserted beaches, quiet farmlands and coastal forests. Our destination will be the penguin colony of Puñihuíl, the only place in the world where Humbolt and Magallanic penguins nest side-by-side. We will tour the small island colonies by boat. We will spend the afternoon exploring the hidden beaches and countryside of the West coast. Activities are to be determined by your interests. Overnight in Ancud. (L,D)

Day 2: East Coast Chiloé - Puerto Varas / Puerto Montt
Today you will drive south towards Castro, famous for its wooden church (one of 16 UNESCO World Heritage Sites on the island), crafts market and traditional houses on stilts. There is a small museum with many photographs of the harbor in the early 20th century as well as of the devastating earthquake of 1960. After lunch, we will continue up the coast to Dalcahue, where we will visit its centuries-old church. Another option for those more interested in the rural life of the island is to forgo the capital and enter the countryside- a land of family farms, green pastures, fishing communities and native forests. Stopping in a few of the small villages we will be able to meet boat builders and observe their centuries-old craft. Churches loom large over the small hamlets, odes to a bygone era of missionary work from the 19th century. In the early evening, we will arrive back to continental Chile. Overnight in Puerto Varas / Puerto Montt. (B,L)

Day 3: Puerto Varas / Puerto Montt
Breakfast at your hotel and transfer to Puerto Montt airport. (B)