Question 1

What is Unplanned Detours?

Accepted Answer

We're a locally-owned tour operator in Santiago, Chile. We run small-group and private experiences led by real locals who love this city — the kind of day you'd have if a friend who lived here showed you around.

Question 2

What languages are your tours offered in?

Accepted Answer

All of our tours are offered in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.

Question 3

How big are your groups?

Accepted Answer

Our groups go from 1 to 10 pax maximum. We keep them intentionally small so you get a personal, high-quality experience rather than being lost in a crowd.

Question 4

Are your guides local?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. All of our guides are Santiago-born or long-time residents with deep knowledge of the city, its culture, history, and best-kept secrets.

Question 5

How do I book a tour?

Accepted Answer

Click the 'Book Now' button on any tour page. You'll be redirected to our secure booking platform where you can select your date, group size, and complete payment.

Question 6

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept all major credit and debit cards, plus Google Pay, Apple Pay, and Pix, through our secure booking platform. You can pay in Chilean pesos (CLP), US dollars (USD), euros (EUR), or Brazilian reais (BRL), and every payment is processed securely online.

Question 7

Can I get a refund if I cancel?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Most tours offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time. Check the specific cancellation policy on each tour's booking page.

Question 8

Do you offer group discounts?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we offer group discounts for groups above 10 pax. Reach out through the contact form and we'll put together a custom proposal.

Question 9

Can I book a private or custom tour?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely — and we love doing them. For Santiago, check out our dedicated Santiago Unplanned private tours page, or contact us through our Contact page and we'll put together a custom proposal for you.

Question 10

Where do tours meet?

Accepted Answer

Meeting points vary by tour and are listed on each tour page. Most tours meet at central, easy-to-find locations. We'll send detailed instructions after booking.

Question 11

Do you offer hotel pickup?

Accepted Answer

Some tours include pickup — this is noted on the individual tour page. For tours without pickup, our meeting points are easily accessible by Uber, taxi, or Metro.

Question 12

What should I wear and bring?

Accepted Answer

Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Dress in layers as Santiago's weather can change throughout the day. Sunscreen, a water bottle, and your sense of adventure are always a good idea.

Question 13

Are your tours suitable for children?

Accepted Answer

Many of our tours are family-friendly. Contact us if you have specific needs and we'll advise.

Question 14

What happens if it rains?

Accepted Answer

Santiago has over 300 sunny days a year, so rain is rare. We run tours in light rain, so bring an umbrella just in case. If the weather makes it unsafe, we'll reschedule or refund you.

Question 15

Which airport serves Santiago?

Accepted Answer

Santiago is served by Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL), about 30 minutes from the city center by Uber, taxi, or the Centropuerto bus.

Question 16

Do I need a visa to visit Chile?

Accepted Answer

Citizens of the US, EU, UK, Canada, Australia, and most of Latin America do not need a visa for tourist visits. Check your country's requirements before traveling.

Question 17

Is Santiago safe for tourists?

Accepted Answer

Yes — with the same common-sense precautions you'd take in any major city. Our guides are happy to give you safety tips.

Question 18

What's the difference between your listed tours and your private tours?

Accepted Answer

Our listed tours are curated, premade experiences we've built to explore Santiago's neighborhoods on foot — we believe walking is the best way to really see a city. Our private tours are different: tell us what you want to do, and we'll combine your ideas with our local know-how to build an itinerary made just for your group. (You can also book a private version of any listed tour.)

Question 19

Is tipping expected on your tours?

Accepted Answer

No — you're never expected or required to tip. That said, our guides always appreciate a tip for great service, as an extra thank-you on top of the tour price.

Question 20

How much walking is involved?

Accepted Answer

Most tours cover about 1-2 km (0.6-1.2 mi) at a comfortable pace. A few longer tours run 2-4 km (1-2 mi), still at a leisurely pace — check the specific tour page for details.

Question 21

Do tours include food or drinks?

Accepted Answer

Most of our tours include a stop for a refreshment along the way. It's always a good idea to bring some cash or a card for any personal extras you'd like to add.

Question 22

Is there a minimum age for the wine tours?

Accepted Answer

Our listed wine tours have a minimum age of 18. Traveling with kids and still want a vineyard day? Our private tours can be customized into a family-friendly winery visit — [get in touch](/private-tours-santiago) and we'll build it around your family.

Question 23

When's the best time to visit Santiago?

Accepted Answer

September to November and March to May are the sweet spot — sunny, fewer crowds. If you're chasing snow and cold-weather activities in the mountains, winter (roughly June to September) is your season instead.

Question 24

Should I worry about altitude sickness?

Accepted Answer

Santiago itself sits low, so altitude usually isn't an issue for city tours. If you're heading up to Cajón del Maipo or the ski areas near Valle Nevado, and you have any respiratory conditions, it's worth checking with your doctor beforehand.

Question 25

Should I bring cash or card in Chile?

Accepted Answer

Most places in Santiago accept cards, but some small independent shops add an extra fee for card payments — so it's always good to carry some cash too. Tipping culture in general runs around 10%.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Tours & Logistics

Getting to Santiago