Zapallar, Chile Session 1: December 1-8, 2008 Session 2: December 8-15, 2008

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Chile is defined by the rugged Andes mountain range and Pacific Ocean spanning the length of this narrow, nearly 3,000-mile-long country. This Latin country is blessed with natural beauty in the extreme:  active volcanos, spectacular glaciers, forest-lined fjords, the world-renown towers and peaks of Patagonia and the driest desert on earth. Chile’s intricate coastline results in a multitude of beautiful beaches and coves. One such cove is Zapallar, a small, sparkling bay hidden from the main roads that traverse Chile, and only 90 minutes drive from Santiago, the nation’s capital.

With few year-round residents, Zapallar is a quiet destination. However, during the summer months of January and February the town fills up as people arrive to take advantage of the ocean and warm days. December is the perfect month to visit as crowds have not yet arrived. Zapallar’s beach lies at the center of a wide horseshoe bay. The surrounding hills create a setting reminiscent of Cinqueterra (Italian Coast) and provide protection from wind for the beach.

The bay is a perfect place to swim. A fun, mile-long swim commences at the fisherman’s wharf and follows a circuit to Isla Seca (open ocean where the waves are bigger), to the calm waters of the beach and back to the wharf. Longer 2-mile swims are available at neighboring Cachagua and “the Cemetery.” We swim from Cachagua when the winds are from the South, and from “the cemetery” when the winds are from the North. In both swims we will be hugging the shore at a prudent distance as the surf is strong and pounds against the rocks. From the nearby town of Papudo even longer swims of 6-8 miles are possible.

Cemetery

Cachagua

All swims will be accompanied by a boat and/or kayak to ensure safety to the swimmers. Swimming in the bay is not much different than swimming parallel to shore at most popular California beaches. Water temperature hovers around 55 degrees F. Wetsuits are OK. You will have opportunities to swim longer or shorter distances, according to your comfort level.

What is included:

• Lodging in a house.
• All food at the house. – including coffee, tea and bottled water.
• Bedding and bath linens.
• All transportation in the van or the boat.  Lunches at local restaurants.
• Washer and dryer.
• Kayaks and life jackets.
• Trip from Santiago to Zapallar and return to Santiago.

What is not included:

• Santiago hotel first and last night.
• Dinners.
• Drinks (alcohol) at lunches in restaurants.
• Equipment to swim.
• Towels for the swimming.
• Wet suits – bring your own if you want to use one.
• Personal accident insurance is required.

Cost: Cost per person, double occupancy is $1750. Cost per single person to be considered, please ask. (Maximum 12 people, minimum 6 people).

Disclaimer: We reserve the right to change any of the above program to accommodate weather and other considerations.

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