Castro - Dalcahue, Curaco de Velez & Achao
Excursion
Price from
$219
Explore the small, charming, and historic villages of the area
• Learn about the ranchers and whalers in Curaco de Vélez, who were prominent during the town’s glory days
Visit some of the oldest churches in the area
Spot the black-necked swans along a coastal avenue
Village vistas
Leave the pier to proceed to Dalcahue, a picturesque village located 20 km north from Castro. Along the way, glimpse the colourful hamlet of Llaullao where we will appreciate the "tejuelas"-roofed houses and a beautiful chapel in a nice setting.
Arrive at the ferry boat terminal in Dalcahue, board a ferry for 8-minute crossing to the Island of Quinchao. Upon arrival, head towards Achao, passing through Curaco de Velez. This very small village of approximately 500 inhabitants saw its best times back in the 1850s when cattle ranchers and whalers lived there, and the beautiful houses you will see today remain as witness of the past times. Also highlighting the village are the black-necked swans, which will be visible mainly along the Coastal Avenue.
About 16 km ahead, we will find the town of Achao, founded as a Jesuit Residency in 1743. With almost 2,500 inhabitants, today Achao is alive with boats from all the surrounding islands, making it one of the busiest ports in the area. Highlighting the town is its church, built in 1730, which contains beautiful baroque imagery. At agreed time, head back to Dalcahue, a town that emerged to its present state as a result of the booms in the cattle and timber industries in the late 19th century. Dalcahue boasts one of the largest and oldest (1750-1790) churches in the area. Following a visit of the church, commence the return drive to Castro.
*While we're excited to share the unique flavours of this region with you, it’s important to note that allergy awareness and hygiene standards can vary widely across the world. The local community providing food for this tour may not be as familiar with allergy concerns or preparation standards as suppliers in your home country or the expert chefs onboard our ships. As a precaution, we advise anyone with a severe food allergy to contact a member of the onboard Expedition Team before booking this excursion.
Practical information
Language: English / German (Subject to Availability)
Remarks: It is recommended to wear layered clothing, a windbreaker or rain jacket, and good walking shoes. Weather in Chile is unpredictable, guests should be prepared for possible showers during the day. The bus journey is approximately 2 hours.
Walking information: Guests will be walking no more than 1.5 hours, the specific distance may vary. Paved surfaces at Curaco de Velez, Acao and Dalcahue. A few steps to enter churches.
Wheelchair accessible: Yes, as long as they can navigate a few steps. Note that no ramps are available at churches or towns.
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