While this is a holiday dedicated to your spending time experiencing Chile, it does involve a good amount of driving.  The total driving distance from top to bottom of this trip is just over 900km, that's before you account for any day trips or detours.

You stay two or three nights in each of your destinations before moving on. Most distances are between 150-250km so you can expect to be driving for three to four hours every second or third day. Estimated driving times and distances are noted at the end of each day of the itinerary.

What is the driving like?
Generally speaking, very easy and low-stress. All of the roads you are likely to encounter are paved and in a reasonable state of repair. Driving in Chile is recognisably rules-based, so overflowing chicken trucks really aren't a thing here.

You probably wouldn't enjoy driving in Valparaiso, which is why we have you stay nearby and suggest taking a taxi in for a day trip.

What is it like to navigate?
Fairly simple, you are primarily travelling on the Pan American highway north - Ruta 5 as it's known. The rule of thumb is simple, if you hit the ocean, you've gone too far left and if you hit the Andes, you've strayed too far right.

In addition, you will want to also use a navigation app such as Waze or Google Maps. You can pre-load drives onto this with wi-fi, it then switches to using your phone's 'always on' GPS rather than expensive data whilst on the move.

What if something happens?
We ask you to do your driving earlier in the day so you don't have to worry about getting stranded in the dark.  The mobile phone coverage along the entirety of this route is very good so you can call us, or your next hosts, to help come up with a plan.

Finally, we only use reputable, well-maintained vehicles in order to minimise the chances of any mechanical failures.   

What is the rental car like?
We always include a mid-sized vehicle which is comfortable for long distances, usually all-wheel drive. The four-wheel drive is rarely necessary but it does make for a more sure-footed driving experience. Engines tend to be of a generous size, no whirring and whining along.

What insurance is included?
For this trip, you have fully comprehensive insurance for two drivers included.

What are the terms of rental?
You must be 21 years old or over. Maximum age varies by rental company but some take the very sensible approach that if you have a valid license at home then that's good enough - i.e. there is no upper age limit.

A credit card deposit/deductible of between $1,000-$2,000 depending on vehicle. It's likely to be on the upper end of that scale.

You must provide a photo driving license. If it isn't in English language, or Spanish, then you will need an international license.

Is it safe?
Overwhelmingly so, yes, Chile is a safe and friendly country. Saying that, you are going to be in plenty of more populous areas where theft from your vehicle is possible. You should take precautions to not leave any valuables on display in your car at any time. It would be wise not to leave your diamond tiara on the dashboard when you park the car.