Unexpected Chile: Luxury Trip with kids

Chile has a reputation as a mecca for outdoor adventure seekers, but it is so much more! This South American gem offers plenty of epicurean delights and is an ideal destination for a kid-friendly luxury vacation. With only a 4-hour time difference from California, Chile provides a jet-lag-free foreign destination. It is also frequently ranked among the safest South American counties to visit. If you’ve never been to South America, Chile is the perfect place to start. We spent spring break exploring the country with three kids under seven. We started in the bustling city of Santiago, ventured to the charming port city of Valparaiso, saw the mesmerizing Atacama Desert, and indulged in world-class wines and several of Chile’s 400 microbreweries. We ended our trip with a rejuvenating visit to hot springs in the Lake District. Internal flights and an excellent highway system make exploring easy.

Santiago: A Gateway to Chilean Adventure

Dinner with wine pairing

Our journey began in Santiago, Chile's vibrant capital, surrounded by the breathtaking peaks of the Andes mountains. Santiago offers a range of accommodations, but one that ticks all the boxes is the family-friendly Ritz-Carlton, Santiago, in the upscale Las Condes neighborhood. Santiago is also full of excellent restaurants.

Santiago boasts a myriad of family-friendly attractions. An entire day can be spent at Parque Metropolitano riding the gondola and visiting the zoo. A highlight of our trip was our experience at Lo Pirque Restaurant, which included an equestrian show, pony rides, playground, hammocks, and wagon rides around the property (you can even take your cocktail with you). If your time is limited, Santiago makes an excellent base to explore the country, with vibrant coastal cities, wineries, and desert landscapes all within an easy drive.

Valparaiso: A Colorful Seaside Adventure

Less than two hours from Santiago is the port city of Valparaiso, known for its colorful houses and eclectic street art. Valparaiso is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a captivating destination for all ages. Tip: select a family-friendly guided tour to uncover Valparaiso's secrets, ride its historic funiculars, and admire stunning Pacific Ocean vistas from its hillside vantage points. The trip wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Vina Mar winery (which offers a helicopter pad if you prefer to skip the drive).

Colchagua Valley: Sipping World-Class Wines Amidst Vineyards

Chilean wine country is an easy day trip from Santiago, but a stay at the iconic Vik Chile Hotel and Winery is highly recommended. This modern, luxury wine retreat offers unique suites that boast panoramic views and private terraces, providing relaxation for parents and space for kids to play.

There is no shortage of kid-friendly wineries. Many boast playgrounds, horse-drawn carriage rides, and gondolas. Mont Gras offers a hands-on experience of grape picking and stomping. Fearful our daughter would be the only kid, we delightfully discovered there were more kids than adults. Tip: Don’t miss lunch at the impeccable Fuegos de Apalta – elegantly nestled in the vineyards of the exclusive Viña Montes winery.

Atacama Desert: Sandboarding in the Dunes

From Santiago, the Atacama Desert is a short flight, a starkly beautiful landscape that will captivate both young and old adventurers. Stay at Explora Atacama, renowned for its five-star service and culinary focus. It even boasts its own observatory. The Michlin guide has named Explora Atacama as one of its favorites in South America.

A highlight for your teens will undoubtedly be the exhilarating sandboarding experience. Glide down the colossal sand dunes, and even if your little ones aren't ready to conquer the highest peaks, the smaller dunes offer a thrilling introduction to this unique desert sport.

The Lake District: Relaxing Hot Springs

From Santiago, the Lake District is a short flight south, and many consider it the microbrewery capital of South America. The charming lakeside town of Pucon is where Chileans go to vacation. Check into the family-friendly &Beyond Vira Vira Lodge, an

exclusive retreat surrounded by natural paradise. While the Lake District offers endless outdoor activities for the whole family, the soothing hot springs are a must. Bathe in the rejuvenating waters while surrounded by lush forests. Hot springs are easily accessible through one of the many inviting day spas that boast pools with varying temperatures.

Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve: A Nature Wonderland

Do not miss a visit to the Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve. Stay at the stunning Nothofagus Hotel & Spa. Its unique treehouse-style accommodations will capture the imagination of your children. Explore the reserve's lush forests on one of its many walking trails, some of which are even stroller-friendly. The hotel’s adventure concierge can help you find the right adventure for your group. They helped us set up a zip-lining excursion for our 6-year-old. Spend the evening relaxing while your kids enjoy the indoor pool with a waterslide.

With its diverse landscapes and luxurious accommodations, Chile provides the ideal backdrop for an unforgettable family vacation. So, pack your bags and embark on this remarkable journey to Chile, where fun, culture, and relaxation await at every turn.