Talking to The Walls

After getting some much needed rest was time again to explore Santiago. I found a great record store called “La Tienda Nacional”. I always love to bring back a couple local records when I travel and was given a couple great recommendations by the staff. The first was a newer post-punk bank called “Delorio and Lostunantes”. The staff played a couple track from the album and I decided to pick it up as well as another recommendation, “Los Blops” – This was an older band who the guy working the counter had compared to as the Chilean Pink Floyd. I will be looking forward to giving these a listen when I get back.

After a pretty relaxing day, I got some more rest as I had an early rise for my next tour into the Andes to Cajón del Maipo and Embalse El Yeso. The tour guide had come to pick me up early in morning just after 6am and we made our way into the Andes. This was probably my favourite of all the tours and if it wasn’t for seeing Patagonia earlier in the trip it would have been the most mind blowing scenery. Embalse El Yeso is a large water reservoir which is responsible for most of Santiago’s drinking water. We took about a 30 minute walk to get to some amazing views of the reservoir and Andes in the background.

Prior to arriving we also made a quick stop to get some views of the river flowing through the valley and mountains in the background.

The scenery was truly mind blowing and after being on the fence booking this tour after already going into the Andes, I am glad I booked it as it would have been a shame to miss. From there it was time to visit with goats and even got a chance to hold a baby goat! A true highlight.

Next and last stop was a wine tasting and chance to view a traditional Chilean celebration with dance in the Andes. This was a chance to see more of the culture in depth and a great way to end the tour.

After the tour was over we made the treck back to Santiago which was about 2 hours. I made my way for dinner to “Fuente Alemana” which is a famous sandwich shop I had seen in recommendations to try. It did not disappoint as the sandwiches were so huge you had to eat them with a knife and fork!

As my time begins to come to an end I am amazed how much I have been able to do and see and I am looking forward to maxing out my last few days in Santiago.