Just Back From: Lapwing Group Tour with Charlotte

Where did you go in South America? 
I travelled across Chile and Argentina, mainly as part of Journey Latin America’s Lapwing group tour. I arrived in the Chilean capital Santiago, where I met my group, then travelled south to Punta Arenas in Patagonia, before moving on to Torres del Paine. We spent two full days exploring the highlights by car. We took a boat trip across Lago Grey to see the glacier and did a long hike. Then we left Chile and drove across the border to Argentina to El Calafate, the entry point for Los Glaciares National Park and the spectacular Perito Moreno glacier. After the group tour finished in Buenos Aires, I ended my own trip with a short stay at Iguazú Falls. 

Could you describe your experience of being on a group tour?
I really enjoyed being on our group tour and seeing first-hand how they work. It is a great way to travel as you can make the most of each place, since the tour leader is on hand to make recommendations and provide information.

We were a group of 9 plus our tour leader, Max which was a really good number. A WhatsApp group was created on the first day so you have everyone’s numbers and bits of information could be shared; some members of the group would send their plans in case someone wanted to join.  

For some meals we dined together and other evenings we just met up for drinks, meaning there was a really good balance of having time on your own and time together. Max did a fantastic job explaining what we would be doing over the next few days, as well as giving advice and guidance on what to do during free time. I really enjoyed the tour and thought it was a great way to explore quite a few places within a limited amount of time.  

How did you get there? 
I flew to Santiago with LATAM from Heathrow via São Paulo, a great option if you are ending or starting your trip at Iguazú Falls, as you can connect via São Paulo and have your luggage checked through.

How long was the trip? 
The group tour lasted 14 days. I arrived in Santiago a day before the tour and added on two nights in Iguazú after the tour. So, I spent 16 nights in South America plus the two overnight flights.  

Have you been before? If so, any notable differences? 
Yes, I had been to both Chile and Argentina before. I lived in Santiago for a year, so I know the city very well and it was lovely to be back. As with any big city, it’s constantly changing.  

Which was your favourite…  

Place: Iguazú Falls. It was my first time visiting and I was truly in awe of how incredible these falls were. I have seen many waterfalls, including in Iceland and Niagara Falls, but these were the best by far. The Argentine side has extensive walkways that immerse you in the falls, while the Brazilian side offers majestic views. The best part is walking right at the bottom along a walkway to a platform just above one set of falls and in front of a higher one. Feeling the mist on your face here is incredible and it’s a great place to take pictures. Wear light clothing and pack a swimsuit if you plan to take the boat ride into the falls.  

Hotel: Belmond Das Cataratas. This historic hotel is worth the hype. The service was excellent, the food was some of the best I had on my trip, and every room and space is beautifully decorated with a truly Brazilian feel. However, the location is what makes it exceptional. It was very special to walk down to the falls after checking in around sunset and see only a handful of people. Then the following morning, I wandered down again to see the falls in a different light. Despite it being a national holiday in Brazil, I felt like I had Iguazu to myself. I finished my trip here, exploring out of hours, relaxing by the pool, and enjoying a spa treatment during the day when the park was busier with visitors.  

Excursion: Tierra del Fuego National Park. This exceeded my expectations with its stunning landscapes and contrasting colours. I visited at a great time of year with snow still on the mountains. Walking through this magical landscape was breathtaking. We arrived early and explored in the opposite direction to most visitors, making it even more special.

What were your most memorable moments? 
Hiking along Los Cuernos (the horns) trail in Torres del Paine National Park. Hotel Las Torres is perfectly located for hiking in the park. You can embark on various hikes, either guided or unguided, catering to different fitness levels.  

Were there any surprises along the way? 
No surprises as such, but the landscapes were stunning nonetheless!  

What tips do you have for travellers wanting to visit the same destinations? 
Pack layers! The weather is very changeable, and you might experience four seasons in one day. Also, bring suncream because the sun is much stronger here.  

Any local snacks, dishes or drinks that should be sampled? 
It’s obligatory to try a Pisco Sour, or when in Patagonia, a Calafate Sour. The Calafate berry grows wild in Patagonia and adds a lovely flavour to the cocktail. Coxinha is a delicious Brazilian snack usually made with chicken. The vegan version with jackfruit is simply delicious.  

Any restaurant or bar recommendations? 
I am vegetarian, and Chile has come a long way in catering for vegetarians since I lived there eight years ago. Argentina also exceeded my expectations. For vegetarian-only options, try La Huerta in Santiago and La Puerta in Buenos Aires. In El Calafate and Ushuaia, there is a lovely small chain called Isabel Cocina al Disco, where you can have incredible one-pot dishes of meat, fish, or vegetables with bread to soak up the juices – it was delicious.  

In Punta Arenas, dine at La Yegua Loca’s restaurant. It requires a reservation as it’s very popular, but the local cuisine is excellent, catering to all dietary requirements. The hotel is on a hill, around a 5-minute walk with some steps, with lovely views across the Strait of Magellan. 

Sum up your trip in a sentence?
An incredible adventure with stunning landscapes, great culture and delicious food and wine.   

• Lapwing: Patagonian Odyssey to Chile and Argentina features superior accommodation in one of the continent’s most remote regions. Travel to Torres del Paine National Park; enter Argentina to visit the Perito Moreno glacier, Tierra del Fuego and the Beagle Channel.