Santiago to Inca Lagoon: Andes Day Trip & Vineyard Tasting

Summary

Andes switchbacks, family vineyard tasting and Inca Lagoon legends

You’ll leave Santiago behind for a day trip into the Andes: sipping wine at a family-run vineyard in Aconcagua Valley, meeting llamas along mountain roads, winding up Los Caracoles’ hairpin turns, and taking in Portillo’s legendary Inca Lagoon. Expect local stories, honest flavors—and moments that linger after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed leaving Santiago was how the city just sort of faded behind us — one minute there’s traffic, then suddenly it’s all dry hills and that sharp, cold air you only get in the Andes. Our guide, Claudio, had this way of pointing out little things I’d never have caught alone: tiny roadside shrines, the exact spot where Aconcagua shows itself if the clouds decide to cooperate (they didn’t at first, but he kept glancing back just in case). We stopped for coffee and empanadas somewhere that smelled like woodsmoke and fresh dough. I tried to order in Spanish; the woman smiled and switched to English before I could embarrass myself further.

We pulled into In Situ Family Vineyards just as the sun started warming up. The vines looked almost silver against the mountains — hard to explain unless you see it. Tasting wine outside there felt different than any fancy bar; it’s quieter, slower. Claudio poured something deep red and told us about his uncle who used to sneak grapes as a kid. I still think about that view — glass in hand, dust on my shoes, wind tugging at my jacket. And then llamas appeared at our next stop (honestly softer than I expected), with a guy selling empanadas who winked when I asked if they were spicy.

The drive up Los Caracoles — those endless switchbacks — made my stomach do little flips but also gave me this weird sense of being suspended between sky and rock. Portillo ski resort looked empty except for a few staff waving from afar (off-season quiet). Lunch at their restaurant wasn’t included but sitting by the window with soup and watching clouds move over Inca Lagoon was worth every peso. There’s this old story Claudio told about an Inca princess and emerald waters; maybe it’s just legend, but honestly the color did look unreal.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Vineyard visit and Inca Lagoon tour

• Hotel pickup in Santiago
• Drive to In Situ Family Vineyards
• Wine tasting at vineyard
• Stop to photograph llamas and use restrooms
• Stop to view and photograph Aconcagua mountain
• Drive Los Caracoles mountain road
• Visit Inca Lagoon and learn legend
• Free time for lunch at Portillo
• Explore shores of Inca Lagoon
• Stop to photograph winding road
• Return to hotel

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Santiago to Inca Lagoon?

The tour departs around 8 a.m. and returns in the evening; expect a full-day experience.

Is lunch included on the Andes & vineyard tour?

Lunch is not included; you’ll have free time to eat at Portillo Restaurant at your own expense.

Are wine tastings part of this day trip?

Yes, wine tasting at In Situ Family Vineyards is included and guided by your tour leader.

Can you interact with llamas during this tour?

Yes, there’s a stop where you can photograph and pet free-roaming llamas along the route.

What should I wear or bring for this Andes tour?

Wear comfortable shoes, bring sunblock and a wind jacket—the weather changes quickly in the mountains.

Is hotel pickup included for this Santiago day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included from central Santiago areas or designated meeting points.

Can you access the shore of Inca Lagoon year-round?

No; during winter season access is closed due to snow safety measures by Portillo Hotel.

What’s included

Your day includes air-conditioned transport with hotel pickup from central Santiago neighborhoods or meeting points if needed, guided wine tasting at San In Situ Family Vineyards with plenty of time to relax outdoors, stops for coffee or empanadas (at your own expense), interaction with llamas along the way, free time for lunch at Portillo Restaurant overlooking Inca Lagoon (lunch not included), plus all logistics handled so you can focus on soaking up mountain views before returning to your hotel that evening.