This journey includes the nitrate plants, geoglyphs and the villages and oases which are located in the Pampa del Tamarugal.

Depart from Iquique towards the Pampa to arrive at the abandoned sites of the Santa Laura nitrate plant where a full visit is made of the remaining plant and there is the opportunity to discover the systems of extraction and processing of this important mineral.

A short distance away is Humberstone, the residential area for the workers of Santa Laura. Following a full visit to this fascinating abandoned town, head towards the Pampa del Tamarugal crossing an extensive wood of tamarind trees and the Salar de Pintados.

The Cerro Pintado, nearby is the home of over 400 geoglyphs made by ancient peoples on their journey from the high plateau of the Andes to the coast and depicts their way of life, maps and stories of their journeys.

Then head to the Oasis de Pica a hillside village where the existence of thermal waters has lead to the production of citrus fruits and mangos in the desert. Here lunch is served in a typical restaurant and there is the chance to bathe in the thermal pool (optional, entrance fee not included) The stop here includes a visit to the San Andr?s Church.

Continue to the settlement of Matilla where the principal points of interest are the church of San Antonio with its Baroque bell tower and the 'lagar', both buildings dating back to the 18th century.

On the way back to Iquique, visit the village of La Tirana, famous for it's huge religious and folklore festival in July every year.

Valle Nevado Ski Resort stands at a height of 3,025 meters/ 9,982 feet above sea level, situated in the mountains very close to Santiago.

Following the river Mapocho up the valley pass through some small mountain villages before really starting to climb the mountain, taking on a series of hairpin bends. The views are incredible and there is a good chance of seeing condors all year round.

The quality and variety of the pistes as well as the usually clement weather make this one of the best ski areas in the southern hemisphere. Skiing is available from June to August (lift pass, ski rental etc not included) and the rest of the year it is possible to enjoy the mountain air and wonderful views.

You will embark on a small motor boat sail and along the Last Hope Sound where you can see black necked swans, fauna of the region and colonies of sea lions.

Following a journey of approximately 3 hours arrive at Monte Balmaceda where you can see the glacier of the same name. Time for viewing and photos here before continuing to the Serrano Glacier. A 15 minute walk takes you to the north side of the mountain for a great view of this fabulous glacier.

Lunch in the Estancia Perales on the way back and return to Puerto Natales.