Castro - Dalcahue, Curaco de Velez & Achao

Excursion

Price from

205 AUD

Duration

4 hours 30 minutes

Season

Available all year

Min. number

25 travellers

Booking code

A-WCA3

  • dalcahue curaco de velez achao 1 shutterstock 2500x1250
This excursion provides a glimpse into the history of the small villages in the Castro-Delahue area. We will visit three towns by coach and ferry.

  • Explore the small, charming, and historic villages of the area

  • Learn about the ranchers and whalers in Curaco de Velez, which 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

We depart the pier and proceed to Dalcahue, a picturesque village located 20 km north of Castro. Along the way, glimpse the colourful hamlet of Llaullao where we see "tejuelas" (uniquely roofed houses) and a beautiful chapel in a nice setting.

Arrive at the ferry terminal in Dalcahue and board a boat for an 8-minute crossing to the Island of Quinchao. Upon arrival, we head towards Achao, passing through Curaco de Velez. This very small village of approximately 500 inhabitants saw its best days back in the 1850s when cattle ranchers and whalers lived there. The beautiful houses you see today remain as a testament to the past. Also highlighting the village are its black-necked swans, which are visible  along the coastal avenue.

About 16 km ahead, we discover the town of Achao, founded as a Jesuit residency in 1743. With almost 2,500 inhabitants, Achao is today 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 and featuring beautiful baroque imagery. At an agreed time, we head back to Dalcahue, a town that emerged into its present state as a result of the cattle and timber industry booms in the late 19th century. Dalcahue boasts one of the largest and oldest (1750-1790) churches in the area. Following a visit to the church, we commence with the return drive to Castro.

Practical information

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.

  • Walking information: 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.