
Zapallar : nature, sea and local flavours
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 6 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Zapallar : nature, sea and local flavours worth booking?
Zapallar : nature, sea and local flavours is a 10-hour experience in Santiago, Chile, from $480 per person. It scores 57 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 5/5 rating across 6 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 57 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (6)
- Duration
- 10 hours
- From
- $480 per person
The Outty verdict
It ranks #7 of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Santiago, with an Outty Ranking of 57. At $480 it sits above the typical similar option ($70), so book it for what is included rather than price. Best for families and couples.
Prices and availability checked
Embark on an immersive experience through one of the most exclusive and charming destinations on the Central Coast of Chile. We begin our journey from Santiago to Zapallar, an architectural and natural treasure. The adventure begins with a low difficulty trekking to Cerro La Cruz, Sanctuary of Nature with breathtaking views and unique biodiversity. From its viewpoint you can see Cachagua Island and its marine fauna, including Humboldt penguins in season. Weather permitting, we will board a local boat alongside a fisherman with decades of experience, living a vibrant journey between authentic tales and the thrill of sailing the Pacific Ocean. After sailing, our guide will invite you to enjoy a patty of fresh produce, paired with a selected Chilean wine. The day culminates with a walk to the beaches of Las Cujas or Cachagua, where nature and coastal architecture create an unforgettable landscape.
What you get
About this experience
Embark on an immersive experience through one of the most exclusive and charming destinations on the Central Coast of Chile. We begin our journey from Santiago to Zapallar, an architectural and natural treasure. The adventure begins with a low difficulty trekking to Cerro La Cruz, Sanctuary of Nature with breathtaking views and unique biodiversity. From its viewpoint you can see Cachagua Island and its marine fauna, including Humboldt penguins in season. Weather permitting, we will board a local boat alongside a fisherman with decades of experience, living a vibrant journey between authentic tales and the thrill of sailing the Pacific Ocean. After sailing, our guide will invite you to enjoy a patty of fresh produce, paired with a selected Chilean wine. The day culminates with a walk to the beaches of Las Cujas or Cachagua, where nature and coastal architecture create an unforgettable landscape.
What's included
Included
- Online assistant during the experience
- Local guide
- Navigation to Penguin Island (subject to weather conditions)
- Private Transport
- Local taxes
- Transport Insurance
- Tasting local food (ceviches, empanadas and wine)
Not included
- Tip
What you'll see and do
Zapallar
Just 1 hour and a half from Santiago, 80km north of Valparaíso, Zapallar ("place of pumpkins" in Mapudungun) will captivate you with its beautiful landscapes and you can understand why in the 60's it captivated a host of European architects who left its legacy in what are currently the houses of the sector. Just meters from the white sand beach and crystal clear waters, classic Italian and German architecture will transport you to a dream place.
120 minutes here
Isla Cachagua
397/5000 Once in the cove, the starting point of the boat ride, a fisherman from the area with more than 10 years of experience will take you to visit the Isla Cachagua Natural Monument, a place for the preservation of the emblematic Humboldt penguin and home of a diverse flora and fauna (heron cuca, swan, duck yeco, garuma, pitotoy, etc). This tour lasts approximately 1 hour.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Zapallar
El Chiringuito Restaurant: After this experience, we invite you to taste the typical food of the sea at Chiringuito, a restaurant with fishing tradition, with fresh seafood extracted directly from the Pacific Ocean and a local gastronomy for delight.
120 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 10 minutes before departure.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Servitour
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 6 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
5 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
4 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
3 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Good for families
2 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Traveler reviews
6 verified traveler reviews for Zapallar : nature, sea and local flavours. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Exceptional tour seeing an incredible penquin colony! Tour guide was a wealth of knowledge.
Wonderful experience with Nature. The guide was very knowledegable about all things in Chile. We enjoyed seeing all the plants in bloom. We enjoyed our conversation along the way. The countryside was very interesting. The boat ride out to the island preserve to see the penguins was a short, very safe experience. The penguin colony was unbelievably awesome. As an extra bonus, we also saw porpoise, otter, huge jellyfish in the water. There are a lot of birds in the area as well. The seafood lunch after the tour was some of the best seafood I have ever tasted. The seafood is caught the same day you eat it! I highly recommend this tour.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your lovely review! We're thrilled to hear that your experience in nature was so memorable. It sounds like the penguin colony and the surrounding wildlife made for an unforgettable adventure. The boat ride, while short, really offers an up-close view of the area’s beauty, and we're so glad you got to experience the porpoise, otter, and jellyfish too! It’s also fantastic to know that the seafood lunch lived up to your expectations—freshly caught and perfectly prepared. We’re grateful for your recommendation and hope you return soon for more amazing experiences with us! 🌿🐧🍴
via Tripadvisor
Zapallar with kids
Zapallar island is beautiful and we had a lovely day visiting this spot and seeing the stunning houses built into the cliff side and of course, the main attraction, 3% of the worlds’ penguin population that inhabit a rock on this island. I was nervous about the boat ride out because I tend to get seasick but Esteban, our guide, reassured me that the water shouldn’t be rough because he had checked the weather report and we were in the clear. He was right! Although it was a bit of a windy ride, it wasn’t too choppy and I was completely fine. It was only about 30 mins each way. It was amazing to see so many penguins together in their natural habitat and we enjoyed a seafood lunch (freshly caught from the ocean) right after. We also appreciated Esteban’s extensive knowledge of the sea creatures and flowers inhabiting the island and his passion about all the living things in the area. He’s also a great photographer and was happy to take lots of photos of our family.
Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing your fantastic experience at Zapallar Island! We’re so glad you had a wonderful day exploring this beautiful spot and enjoying the incredible views of the cliffside homes and the penguins. It’s great to hear that Esteban was able to reassure you about the boat ride, and we’re happy the conditions allowed you to fully enjoy the journey. His knowledge of the local sea life and flowers, as well as his enthusiasm for the area, truly make him an exceptional guide. We're also delighted that you enjoyed the freshly caught seafood lunch and that Esteban could help capture such special memories for your family. We hope to welcome you back for more amazing adventures in the future! 🐧🌊📸
via Tripadvisor
Quite an adventure with beautiful surroundings.
This was an incredible tour. The views are amazing. The boat is a bit scary, but the tour guide, driver, and fisherman driving the boat were wonderful. Daniel is a very responsive and knowledgeable guide. Boris is an excellent driver. The pace of the tour was perfect for us.
Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing your experience with us! We're so glad to hear that you enjoyed the tour and the breathtaking views. We understand that the boat can feel a bit adventurous, but we’re happy that our team helped make you feel comfortable and well cared for. Your kind words about their professionalism mean a lot to us. It's great to know the tour’s pace was just right for you. We hope to see you again for another incredible adventure! 🚤
via Tripadvisor
Wonderful experience
Our guide was very loving and friendly. Answering all the questions my kids asked him. They looked for crabs on the beach, rods and the Perfect boat. Just that day the sea was a bit rough and they adapted Perfect to my husband and my children. The very nice experience! Besides I stayed at the beach with my youngest daughter and they very kind accompanied me, brought me chairs to The beach, blankets and food! Real luxury. He marked the driver very attentive and prudent. Helping me with my needs. The place is Lovely, lovely. We will definitely rehire them!
Response from the operator: Querida Maggie Muchas gracias por brindarnos su tiempo y atención para dejarnos este hermoso comentario, nos alegra saber que fue una experiencia reconfortante e inolvidable para usted y su familia. Agradecemos también las palabras dedicadas a nuestro querido equipo, Esteban y Marco. Los dejamos más que invitados a vivir nuevas experiencias en su próximo viaje a Chile junto a nuestra querida #familiaservitourchile #teamservitourchile Un fuerte abrazo y mucho cariños a la distancia! Alanis pino Directora de Relaciones con el Cliente
via Tripadvisor (translated)
Zapellar
Fantastic experience! We saw hundreds of penguins. The boat ride to penguin island on a fisherman’s skiff was exciting and was an adventure in itself. Not for the faint of heart, but characteristic of a ride on the Pacific. We loved it!. Esteban was amazing, wonderful stories and effortlessly tailored the day to our interests, to include a long hike along the rocky Pacific coast.
Response from the operator: Dear/a Colleen First of all, thank you very much for sharing your time with us. It has been a pleasure and a privilege to visit the Zapallar & Cachagua Island Experience with you, I hope you have been able to enjoy the landscape, the wonderful views and all the attractions that make this experience an unforgettable place to visit in Chile. It is very gratifying to know that our work and that of the entire team that accompanied her to live this great experience, has been to her liking. Thank you for the words addressed to our guide Estaban. We wholeheartedly hope that you have arrived safely at your home and we leave you more than invited to live new experiences on your next trip to Chile with our beloved #familiaservitourchile #teamservitourchile A big hug and lots of love from a distance! Alanis Pino Customer Relations Director
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 10 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 2
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Why this scores 57
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Zapallar : nature, sea and local flavours: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Santiago.
How does Zapallar : nature, sea and local flavours compare to similar tours in Santiago?
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It ranks #7 of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Santiago, with an Outty Ranking of 57. At $480 it sits above the typical similar option ($70), so book it for what is included rather than price. Best for families and couples.
Who is Zapallar : nature, sea and local flavours best for?
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It suits families and couples best, based on its 10-hour length, all-ages access and free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
Is Zapallar : nature, sea and local flavours good value?
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It is a premium pick. It starts at $480, above the $70 typical for similar experiences in Santiago.
How much does Zapallar : nature, sea and local flavours cost?
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Prices start at $480 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Santiago usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Zapallar : nature, sea and local flavours take?
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Plan for about 10 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Santiago is not rushed.
Is Zapallar : nature, sea and local flavours worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 57 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 6 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Santiago, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Zapallar : nature, sea and local flavours?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Zapallar : nature, sea and local flavours suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 10-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Zapallar : nature, sea and local flavours?
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Around 2 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Santiago can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Santiago and add a light layer if any part of the 10-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Zapallar : nature, sea and local flavours start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Santiago within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Santiago?
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On Outty we rank every Santiago experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Maipo Valley Wine Region: 4 Wineries, Tastings & Foodie Tour, Valparaiso Port and Viña del Mar with Casablanca Wine Tasting, Tour to Valparaíso, Viña del Mar, Pablo Neruda Museum and Vineyard. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Santiago?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Santiago?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Zapallar : nature, sea and local flavours?
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Included: Online assistant during the experience; Local guide; Navigation to Penguin Island (subject to weather conditions); Private Transport; and Local taxes. Not included: Tip. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Zapallar : nature, sea and local flavours include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 146 listed pickup locations in and around Santiago. Be ready about 10 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Zapallar : nature, sea and local flavours offered in?
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It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Zapallar : nature, sea and local flavours?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Zapallar : nature, sea and local flavours wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Zapallar : nature, sea and local flavours if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Zapallar : nature, sea and local flavours?
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Across 6 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
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