Excursion The best of quinchao island tour at Castro

Embrace the Old World charm of Quinchao Island during this panoramic, half-day excursion via coach and boat.

Dalcahue, Llaullao, Chapel and Ferry-Ride

Depart the pier for the short drive to Dalcahue, a picturesque village located approximately 12.5 miles (about 20 kilometres) north of Castro. En route, pass by the colourful hamlet of Llaullao, home to 'tejuelas'-roofed houses and a beautiful chapel in a lovely setting. Upon arrival in Dalcahue, proceed to the ferry-boat terminal and embark a ferry for the short ride to Quinchao Island.

Quinchao Island, Curaco de Velez, Historic Houses and Swans

After disembarking on Quinchao Island, board a coach and drive towards Achao. Along the way, pass through Curaco de Velez, a very small village of approximately 500 inhabitants. Its heyday was back in the 1850s, when cattle ranchers and whalers lived here, and the beautiful houses seen today remain as a testimony of the past times. Also highlighting the village are the black-necked swans, which may be seen along the coastal avenue.

Achao Town and Church, Ferry-Ride, and Dalcahue Town and Church

Next, continue on to the town of Achao, founded as a Jesuit Residency in 1743. With almost 2,500 inhabitants, 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. Following a guided visit to the church, proceed for a refreshment stop at a local restaurant in the main square and watch a folkloric presentation. Afterward, some free time is made available to explore Achao at your leisure. Leaving Achao, re-board your coach and head back to the ferry-boat terminal for the short ride back to the village of Dalcahue. After a visit to the late-18th-century Dalcahue Church and some free time at your leisure, re-board your coach and commence the short drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Castro, Dalcahue, Llaullao, Chapel, Ferry-Ride, Quinchao Island, Curaco de Velez, Historic Houses, Swans, Achao Town and Church, Dalcahue Town and Church

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking and standing for approximately 437 yards (about 400 metres), with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and embark/disembark the boat, and at the churches visited. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear warm, comfortable clothing with hiking boots, and bring sun protection and a weatherproof jacket from the ship. Guests must be at least nine years old to participate on this tour. Flash photography inside the churches is prohibited. The tour sequence may vary. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. Please be advised that local tourist facilities are limited; buses and guides are the best available, and due to cooler average temperatures, vehicles are not equipped with air conditioning.