7-Day Cultural Immersion in Chile on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Discover Santiago

Santiago, Chile

9:00AM

Visit La Moneda Palace

Start your cultural immersion with a visit to La Moneda Palace, the seat of the President of Chile, a beautiful historic landmark.
Walk or take the metro to Moneda Station.
CLP0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Parque Forestal

Stroll through Parque Forestal, an urban park with lovely walking paths lined with sculptures, a perfect spot to soak up the atmosphere.
Walk from La Moneda; it's about 15 minutes.
CLP0, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at El Huerto

Enjoy a delicious vegan lunch at El Huerto, known for its organic dishes and vibrant flavors.
Located a short walk from Parque Forestal.
CLP8000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Bellavista Neighborhood

Immerse yourself in the artsy vibe of Bellavista, lined with colorful murals, cafes, and artisan markets.
Take a short taxi or metro to Baquedano Station.
CLP2000, 2 hours

4:30PM

Tour Pablo Neruda's Casa Museo La Chascona

Visit the eccentric house museum of poet Pablo Neruda, nestled in the hills with stunning views.
Take a short walk from Bellavista.
CLP7000, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Los Verdaderos

Have dinner at Los Verdaderos, a vegan-friendly place that serves traditional Chilean food with a plant-based twist.
Walk from La Chascona; about 15 minutes.
CLP9000, 1 hour
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Day 2: Valparaíso Vibrance

Valparaíso, Chile

8:00AM

Travel to Valparaíso

Catch an early bus to Valparaíso to experience its famous hills and vibrant art scene.
Buses leave from Terminal Alameda and take about 2 hours.
CLP6000, 2 hours

10:30AM

Explore Cerro Alegre

Wander through Cerro Alegre, a colorful hill full of street art, cafes, and incredible views.
Walking area, explore the streets.
CLP0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Café del Poeta

Savor a hearty vegan lunch at Café del Poeta, offering fresh local produce and chill vibes.
Located in the heart of Cerro Alegre.
CLP7000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit La Sebastiana

Tour La Sebastiana, the former home of Pablo Neruda, filled with a unique collection of artifacts.
Walking distance from Cerro Alegre.
CLP6000, 1 hour

4:00PM

Ride the Funiculars

Experience Valparaíso's iconic funiculars for breathtaking views and easy access between the hills.
Various funicular stations available.
CLP2000, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Tierra de Fuego

End your day at Tierra de Fuego, a cozy eatery with delicious vegan options.
Located near the waterfront.
CLP8000, 1 hour
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Day 3: Beach Day in Viña del Mar

Viña del Mar, Chile

8:00AM

Travel to Viña del Mar

Take a short bus ride from Valparaíso to the lovely coastal city of Viña del Mar.
Buses run frequently and take about 30 minutes.
CLP2000, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Relax at Playa Acapulco

Spend the morning soaking up the sun at Playa Acapulco, a popular beach spot.
Walking from the bus station.
CLP0, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Café de la Plaza

Enjoy an ocean view while dining on vegan sandwiches and salads at Café de la Plaza.
Walking distance from the beach.
CLP7000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Flower Clock

Visit the iconic Flower Clock, a symbol of Viña del Mar and a marvel of horticultural engineering.
Short walk from lunch spot.
CLP0, 30 minutes

2:30PM

Explore the Wulff Castle

Wander around the picturesque Wulff Castle, overlooking the sea and known for its beautiful architecture.
A short walk from the Flower Clock.
CLP0, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit the local artisan market

Shop for local crafts and unique souvenirs at the bustling artisan market.
Walking distance from Wulff Castle.
CLP0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Vegano's

Indulge in a flavorful vegan dinner at Vegano's, well-reviewed for its creative dishes.
Located near the artisan market.
CLP8000, 1 hour
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Day 4: Adventure in Pucón

Pucón, Chile

7:00AM

Travel to Pucón

Early bus ride from Viña del Mar to Pucón, a gateway to outdoor adventures.
Transfer via bus from Viña del Mar to Temuco, then onto Pucón (approximately 8 hours).
CLP12000, 8 hours

3:00PM

Check into Hostel

Settle into a budget-friendly hostel with recommendations for local vegan eateries nearby.
Walking distance from the bus terminal.
CLP10000, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Lake Villarrica

Take a leisurely walk around the scenic Lake Villarrica, where you can relax or enjoy water activities.
Local bus or a walk, only a few kilometers away.
CLP0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at El Trillium

Feast on hearty vegan dishes at El Trillium, praised for its use of local ingredients.
From the lake, take a local bus back to the town.
CLP8000, 1 hour

8:00PM

Relax at Local Hot Springs

Unwind in nearby hot springs for a relaxing end to your day in Pucón.
Organized transport available from local guides.
CLP12000, 2 hours
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Day 5: Nature in Torres del Paine

Torres del Paine, Chile

6:00AM

Travel to Torres del Paine

Early bus ride to Torres del Paine National Park, a stunning area perfect for hiking.
Buses leave from Puerto Varas or Pucón; journey takes about 5-6 hours.
CLP15000, 6 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Refugio Torre Central

Enjoy a packed or simple vegan lunch at Refugio Torre Central while enjoying scenic views of the park.
Trail access from the bus drop-off.
CLP0, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Torres del Paine

Spend the afternoon hiking along the breathtaking trails, surrounded by nature's beauty including mountains, lakes, and possibly wildlife.
Follow trails marked from the Refugio.
CLP0, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Camp

Cook a delicious vegan dinner while camping under the stars, enjoying the peace of nature.
Controlled camping area, food can be pre-packed.
CLP6000, 1 hour

7:00PM

Stargaze

Wrap up the day with US-worthy stargazing; this remote area has minimal light pollution, showcasing brilliant stars.
Camp area; lay back and enjoy.
CLP0, 1 hour
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Day 6: History and Culture in Punta Arenas

Punta Arenas, Chile

8:00AM

Travel from Torres del Paine to Punta Arenas

Catch a bus to Punta Arenas, a charming city known for its rich history and culture.
Buses depart from Torres del Paine in the morning and take about 3 hours.
CLP15000, 3 hours

12:00PM

Check into Budget Hostel

Safe and affordable accommodation in the city to recharge for the upcoming activities.
Walking distance from the bus terminal.
CLP9000, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Restaurante Morfeo

Enjoy a scrumptious vegan meal at Restaurante Morfeo, popular for its innovative plant-based options.
Walk to the restaurant; approximately 10 minutes.
CLP8000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Museu Regional de Magallanes

Learn about the history of the Magallanes region with engaging exhibits at this local museum.
Walking distance from the restaurant.
CLP3000, 2 hours

5:30PM

Discover Plaza de Armas

Take a leisurely walk around Plaza de Armas, experiencing local life and culture amid beautiful architecture.
Short walk from the museum.
CLP0, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at La Chocolatería

Indulge in a delightful vegan dessert at this local favorite known for its incredible hot chocolate.
Located near the main square.
CLP6000, 1 hour
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Day 7: Return to Santiago

Santiago, Chile

8:00AM

Travel Back to Santiago

Catch a morning bus back to Santiago, wrapping up your week-long cultural journey in Chile.
Multiple bus lines operate from Punta Arenas; it takes around 3-4 hours.
CLP12000, 4 hours

1:00PM

Visit Mercado Central

Stop by Mercado Central, a lively market offering fresh produce and local dishes, including vegan snacks.
Take the metro from the bus terminal to the market area.
CLP0, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Cerro San Cristóbal

Spend your afternoon climbing or taking the funicular up Cerro San Cristóbal for panoramic views of Santiago.
Metro to Baquedano and then a short walk.
CLP2000, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Quinoa

Celebrate the end of your trip with a vegan feast at Quinoa, celebrated for its wholesome meals.
Taking a taxi directly from San Cristóbal.
CLP9000, 1 hour

7:30PM

Catch a flight home

Reflect on all the beautiful experiences and cultures you've encountered as you prepare to leave.
Head to the airport via metro or taxi.
CLP0, 1 hour
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