Trip was wonderful! The highlights were amazing landscapes and friendly, interesting people. The wind was the big surprise, despite multiple warnings, we still did not expect the powerful gusts (50 mph or more!) that we encountered. Magical moment was the sun setting at 11:00 at night, with a full moon rising.

Patagonia exceeded our expectations. We loved it!

Yes

Swoop's service was great. Having a specialist made the planning so easy, and we found that the trip was very well designed for our family. We fortunately did not have any emergencies requiring Swoop's support during the trip. The only thing I would have done differently, if it were possible, is to fly into Puerto Natales instead of Punta Arenas, greatly shortening the drive to Patagonia. But I also understand that those flights are hard to come by.

Highlight was the hike to Toco volcano, at 18,300 feet. The scenery was amazing and wild in a way we had not previously experienced. I would say that the excursions in Atacama are in general not as rigorous or as breath-taking as those in Patagonia. Also, while our guides were attentive and competent, they were not as enthusiastic or fun as the guides from Hotel Las Torres. On the other hand, Hotel Tierra is fabulous and the staff there were unfailingly attentive and friendly.

Santiago was hotter and more crowded than we expected. We found some delicious food, and our trip to the Museum of Human Rights was fascinating. I did not feel that I needed as much time there as we had (about 1 1/2 days due to travel schedule) and if I had to do it over I would instead book a tour to Valparaiso or wine country. The hotel, Lastarria, was very nice and staff were extremely accommodating.

We LOVED our Torres del Paine trip. If I had to do it over, I would probably have stayed one extra day (5 days of excursions) in the park. The guides were wonderful and we really enjoyed the company of the other guests. Compared with Atacama, the guests at Hotel las Torres were more athletic and adventurous, and therefore better suited to our family. We encountered some wildlife-- e.g., guanaco and carra-carras, but sadly no pumas. Some days the excursion routes were crowded, and other days not so much. The views were truly spectacular. With regard to the Hotel, the staff were friendly and very accommodating. I would rate the food as good but not wonderful as compared with Hotel Tierra. Also there is no real "spa" at Hotel las Torres. They charged a fee of about $15 US per person! just to use the sauna one afternoon. The hotel should reconsider this policy. Common spaces at the hotel are very nice. Bedrooms are small but fine. The location is wonderful. I would definitely recommend this hotel to others.