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Patagonia Adventure – 19 days
This is the definitive tour for experiencing the highlights of central Chile and southern Patagonia. You’ll experience the city of Santiago and the local districts and sample some of Chile’s famous wines, and hike the valleys and volcanoes of Pucon, the shimmering rivers and towering peaks in the lake districts and across the Andes. After witnessing Patagonia’s staggering beauty with its pristine lakes, secluded forests and massive glaciers, you will approach one of the world’s southernmost cities, Punta Arenas.
Age Range
This tour is designed for adults over 18 years old. While most passengers are aged from 25 to 55, every year we get people both above and below this age range. All travellers over the age of 55 will be requested to complete a self-declaration of fitness.
Chile and Argentina
The long, thin expanse of land that occupies a significant proportion of South America’s western coast belongs to Chile. With over 2,700 miles of pacific coastline, Chile encapsulates a magnificent variety of geographical features and climates, with stunning glaciers in the Patagonian South, and the world’s driest desert (Atacama) to the north.
Comprising almost half of the southern part of South America, Argentina is home to some of the tallest mountains, expansive deserts and highest waterfalls imaginable. It is a diverse country, from the sparsely populated parts of Patagonia to the bustling metropolis of Buenos Aires. There is a fascinating mix of European influences, an absorbing cultural heritage and an air of sophistication that makes Argentina a great country to visit.
Climate
Torres del Paine has a milder and drier microclimate than the surrounding areas of Patagonia because of some unique geological features. The weather however is famously unpredictable and it is possible to experience four seasons in the course of a few hours! Average daily temperatures vary but in summer one can expect 10–20°C with the occasional hot day of 25°C. Temperatures can drop to zero at night and high winds are common in this area.
Although you can never be sure of how Patagonia will treat its guests, we ask that clients are mentally and physically prepared for unpredictable and sometimes challenging weather conditions and that you pack accordingly. Good breathable waterproofs (top to toe) are essential.
Tour Information
Your tour begins at Chile’s lively capital city of Santiago. In addition to touring the city we also spend some of our first day at a local winery, sampling and perhaps purchasing some of the country’s famous wines. After spending the night on an overnight train to Temuco we drive south through the valleys under the shadows of the Andes. You may choose to go white water rafting, or horse riding, or opt to climb the Villarica Volcano to take in the stunning views of the snow-capped peaks, distant forests and lakes. Then enjoy a soothing evening and soak in the hot springs.
As we drive south towards the Argentine border, over the Andes and past the nearby Lake Llanquihue, we pause at Petrohue Falls before arriving at Bariloche, a paradise for lovers of the outdoors. There is a swathe of options here – you can hike, bike, go fishing or try white-water rafting, there are plenty of extra activities to get involved with.
We continue south towards Los Alerces National Park, with its massive trees, and lakes, streams and idyllic rainforest – the perfect trekking experience. We camp here for two nights before heading across the Andes to visit the Canyon of the Rio Pinturas and the Cueva de las Manos. Here you will find some of Patagonia’s oldest and most significant rock art displays, some considered to date back over 9,500 years.
Remaining in Fitzroy you have the chance to get your teeth into some real mountainous terrain, with a variety of treks available for all levels of ability, with accommodation prepared for you at mountain hostels. As we move further south we arrive at the massive Perito Moreno Glacier, a huge expanse of ice which spills from the ice caps like a frozen waterfall. You can opt to take a boat ride towards the face of the glacier or you may get the opportunity to walk on it!
We move back into Chile to explore national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Torres del Paine. The park offers rocky granite peaks, immaculate lakes and magnificent views while you spend three days trekking, exploring and camping. We complete this remarkable tour at Punta Arenas, one of the southernmost cities of the world.
Accommodation & Meals
This is primarily a camping tour and all camping and cooking equipment (except your sleeping bag) is provided. We provide you with a thermal pad to sleep on, but if you prefer added comfort, you are encouraged to bring your own small camping style pillow or ThermaRest inflating pad.
Most nights we will be camping in established campgrounds with hot showers and flush toilets, although due to the remote nature of Patagonia, some primitive sites may be used. We provide all of the camping equipment including spacious tents (two people share each tent), a mobile kitchen with gas stove, pots, plates, mugs, coolers, etc. Your tour leader will show you how to put up a tent as well as help everyone prepare delicious meals throughout the trek. You just need to bring your clothes and a sense of adventure! A sleeping bag is also required for this tour. Make sure your sleeping bag is warm enough for the time of year you are travelling. We recommend you take at least a 3-4 season sleeping bag rated to 0 (zero) degrees Celsius. On days marked (HP) you will be staying in hostel accommodation.
Our groups share in the shopping, preparation and cooking of the food. Supplies, excluding soft drinks and alcohol, are purchased from the food kitty. Each member of the group pays US $9 per day in Chilean Pesos, which covers three meals on days while we are camping. This does not cover meals during hostel / lodge stops, or when groups sometimes sample regional cuisine at local restaurants. While US dollars may be accepted at some local restaurants, you should plan on using Chilean Pesos.
Stops
Day 1: Santiago Night Train (T)
Day 2: Pucón
Day 3: Pucón
Day 4: Ensenada
Day 5: Villa La Angostura
Day 6: Bariloche (HP)
Day 7: Bariloche (HP)
Day 8: Los Alerces National Park
Day 9: Los Alerces National Park
Day 10: Bajo Caracoles
Day 11: Chalten/Fitzroy (HP)
Day 12: Chalten/Fitzroy (HP)
Day 13: Chalten/Fitzroy (HP)
Day 14: Calafate (HP)
Day 15: Calafate (HP)
Day 16: Torres del Paine National Park
Day 17: Torres del Paine National Park
Day 18: Torres del Paine National Park
Day 19: Punta Arenas
Dates and Prices
16 November
14 December
2009
18 January
22 February |
£1499
£1499
£1529
£1529 |
Included in price
- Camping fees, equipment and private transportation
- Services of English/Spanish-speaking tour leader
- One overnight train ride
- Nine nights’ lodging accommodation
- Pucon area hot springs
- Guided trekking in Los Alerces, Bariloche, Chalten/Fitzroy and Torres del Paine parks
- Tour of Cuevo de las Manos
- Tour of Santiago, Vina del Mar or local winery
- Admission to all National Parks and Monuments as per the itinerary
Not Included
- International Flights
- Travel Insurance
- Spending Money
- All meals not described above
Optional Activities
Here are some examples of additional excursions that may be available to you after the tour:
- Whitewater rafting
- Mountain biking
- Horseback riding
- Villerica Volcano Climb
- Cruise on Lake Argentina
- Perito Moreno Glacier Trek
- Penguin Rookery (seasonal)
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