Tour Patagonia Hiking Adventure | Visit Chile, Argentina

Flights

International flights are not included.

Meals

Breakfast, lunch and dinner for the entire trip.

Others

Hiking, kayaking, biking, scenic cruises and more!

Accommodation

Charming hotels in the towns and cities. Refugios (backcountry lodges) on the W-Trek hiking or a comfortable lodge on the W-Trek Experience

Not included:

Guide

You’ll have an experienced trip leader with you for the entire duration, as well as specialist local guides in select locations.

Transport

All transportation from trip start to end. Airport transfers on the first & last days.

Insurance

Insurance is not included.

Start planning your experience

Day 1 Day 1: Arrive In Patagonia
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: Arrive In Patagonia

Welcome to Chilean Patagonia! The windswept plains of this southern region stretch on for miles, joining Chile’s rugged coastline and majestic mountain peaks into one of the world’s most awe-inspiring mountain environments, perched on the edges of the icy isthmus and fiords of the southern Pacific Ocean. If you plan on arriving early today, chat to us about for suggestions for your first day in Patagonia! This evening you’ll meet your trip leader and head out to a local restaurant for your first taste of Patagonian cuisine.Hotel Almasur, Punta Arenas (Dinner)
Day 2 Day 2: Cruise And Hike Magdalena Island Penguin Colony, Or Explore Cueva Del Milodón
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: Cruise And Hike Magdalena Island Penguin Colony, Or Explore Cueva Del Milodón

This morning we’ll take a cruise, weather permitting, across the Magellan Strait to Magdalena Island. The Island is protected, and uninhabited by humans, and is home to the largest penguin colony in Southern Chile, with around 60,000 breeding pairs of Magellanic penguins. Alternatively, if the Magellan Strait, which is subject to high swells, is uncrossable, we’ll head instead to Cueva del Milodón (Cave of the Mylodon). In this case, after breakfast, we’ll take a scenic drive through the fertile Patagonian lowlands to Puerto Natales, and on to the cave system. Alongside a local guide, we’ll explore all three caves, spread across an area of a few square kilometres, culminating in the lair of the mystical mylodon – a gigantic, and now extinct member of the sloth family, which survived in the region up until around 5,000 years ago. You’ll want to get your photo taken next to the life-size replica of this ancient beast at the cave entrance! Afterwards we’ll explore the nearby interpretation centre, then head back to Puerto Natales for dinner together.Hotel Natalino, Puerto Natales (All meals)Penguin Colony Hiking Distance: 1.6 kilometres (1 mile), 1-2 hoursElevation Gain: 20 metres (60 feet)Elevation Loss: 20 metres (60 feet)Cueva del Milodon Hiking Distance: 3 kilometres (1.8 miles), 2 hours, flat
Day 3 Option A: W-Trek Hiking - Option B: W-Trek Experience (Us$499)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Option A: W-Trek Hiking - Option B: W-Trek Experience (Us$499)

Day 3: Option A - Start ‘W’ hike, Torres del Paine National ParkToday we’ll begin the legendary four-day ‘W’ hike, an amazing trek among sheer granite peaks, snow-clad mountains, glacial lakes and the thick Magellanic forest. We’ll follow the Rio Ascensio Valley as it winds its way up to the park’s namesake. As we reach the top of the boulder field near the end of our hike, we’ll come face to face with one of the most famous mountain landscapes in the world – above you, three mammoth granite peaks rise like tombstones from the rugged hills and snow-coated mountains of Patagonia to pierce the sky – Torres del Paine (‘Towers of Blue’). At a height of about 900 metres (3000 feet), they are believed to be the highest natural cliff faces in the world. Tonight you’ll sleep well at a cosy refugio (mountain lodge), a welcome sight after a full day’s hike. Only a light day pack is required as it’s a return hike. There are shorter options available.Refugio, Torres del Paine (All meals)Hiking Distance: 22 kilometres (13.7 miles), 7-9 hoursElevation Gain: 770 metres (2,524 feet)Elevation Loss: 770 metres (2,524 feet)Day 4: Option A - Hike to Los Cuernos, Torres del Paine National ParkIt’s an easier hike today, as we contour around the northern shore of Lake Nordenskjold, a glacial lake in the heart of the national park. As we head around the lake, we’ll start to see glimpses of Los Cuernos – Spanish for ‘The Horns’ – three fantastically sculpted grey and white sedimentary and granite peaks rising 244 metres (800 feet). The intense turquoise hue of the lake and starkness of the mountains make for spectacular photo opportunities. This evening, we’ll stay in the shadow of the mountains at Refugio Los Cuernos.Refugio Los Cuernos, Torres del Paine (All meals)Hiking Distance: 13 kilometres (8 miles), 4-6 hoursElevation Gain: 60 metres (196 feet)Elevation Loss: 410 metres (1,345 feet)Day 5: Option A - Hike French Valley, Torres del Paine National ParkWe’ll rise with the sun this morning to begin our hike up French Valley for a closer look at Los Cuernos. This ravine is probably one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever see, with multiple glaciers cascading down its steep sides, creating a patchwork of ice and rock. The track steepens as we ascend a ridge line to the upper French Valley past waterfalls and mountain tarns. At the top, we’ll have incredible views of a massive natural amphitheatre, filled with the awesome French Glacier, the Paine Massif and Cuernos granite towers. This afternoon, we’ll hike to Refugio Paine Grande.Refugio Paine Grande, Torres del Paine (All meals)Refugio Paine Hiking Distance: 13 kilometres (8 miles), 4-6 hoursElevation Gain: 80 metres (262 feet)Elevation Loss: 80 metres (262 feet)French Valley Lookout Hiking Distance: 6 kilometres (3.7 miles), 2-3 hours (optional)Elevation Gain: 660 metres (2,165 feet)Elevation Loss: 660 metres (2,165 feet)Day 6: Option A - Hike to Refugio Grey, kayak Lake GreyGrey Glacier is a 200 metre (650 feet) high wall of ice that marks the northern end of Lake Grey. This is one of the largest calving glaciers in the world, with giant ice cliffs that plummet into the depths of the lake. Our hike finishes at the lake, where we’ll meet our specialist kayak guides. They’ll match you with a kayak and provide all the necessary equipment for a unique way to explore Lake Grey and enjoy amazing views of the glacier and icebergs. When we return to shore, we’ll head to Refugio Grey, where we spend our last night in Torres del Paine National Park.Refugio Grey, Torres del Paine (All meals)Hiking Distance: 11 kilometres (7 miles), 3-5 hoursElevation Gain: 250 metres (820 feet)Elevation Loss: 210 metres (688 feet)Kayaking Time: 3 hoursDay 7: Option A - Hike to Grey Glacier, scenic cruise across Lake GreyThis morning we’ll hike a bit further up the valley to a magnificent lookout over the Grey Glacier.Optional ’Touching the Ice’ Experience (extra fee applies)A 3 hour package including return boat transfers to Grey Glacier, where you’ll explore along Nunatuk Island and see the face of the Grey Glacier.This option is available nearly all the time, though if the weather is too unpleasant and this trip is cancelled, you’ll do the normal itinerary and we’ll provide a full refund after your trip has finished.After we’ve finished our morning’s activities catch the boat across Lake Grey, taking in views of the surrounding mountains. When we complete our boat trip, we’ll head back to Puerto Natales, where we started our hike four days ago, to re-group with the W Trek day hikers, and enjoy a well-earned rest and another tasty meal together.Hotel Natalino, Puerto Natales (All meals)Hiking Distance: 4.8 kilometres (3 miles), 1-3 hoursElevation Gain: 100 metres (328 feet)Elevation Loss: 100 metres (328 feet)

Day 3: Option B - Explore Azul LagoonToday we’ll begin the four-day exploration of Torres Del Paine, with amazing day treks among sheer granite peaks, snow-clad mountains, glacial lakes and the thick Magellanic forest. Our first hike will take us to Azul Lagoon, where we’ll circumnavigate the lagoon with views of the Torres del Paine towers just south of us. After lunch we’ll head back south and journey further into the park, stopping off along the way for views of Lake Nordenskjold and Lake Pehoe before arriving at Kau Rio Serrano Refugio, our accommodation for the next 4 nights.Kau Rio Serrano, Torres del Paine (All meals)Hiking Distance: 5 kilometres (3.1 miles), 2-3 hoursElevation Gain: 50 metres (164 feet)Elevation Loss: 50 metres (164 feet)Day 4: Option B - Hike French ValleyAfter a scrumptious breakfast, we’ll head back to Lake Pehoe where we’ll hop on a catamaran across to Refugio Paine Grande. Our hike today takes us toward the French Valley for a closer look at Los Cuernos, and at the base of the French Valley, we’ll have incredible views of ravines. It is probably one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever see, with multiple glaciers cascading down its steep sides, creating a patchwork of ice and rock. We may catch a glimpse of the impressive French Glacier, the Paine Massif and Cuernos granite towers in the background. We’ll enjoy lunch along the way before hiking back down on the same trail, making our way back to the refugio and onward on the catamaran to the refugio with time to relax before dinner.Kau Rio Serrano, Torres del Paine (All meals)Hiking Distance: 16 kilometres (10 miles), 4-5 hoursElevation Gain: 146 metres (477 feet)Elevation Loss: 146 metres (477 feet)Day 5: Option B - Hike near Grey & Tyndall GlaciersYou’re in one of the most beautiful locations on the planet, so take your time today and take it all in – enjoying breakfast at your leisure. There’s an opportunity to go for a hike this morning or you can simply relax at the refugio and enjoy the views from the river’s edge. Lunch will be at Kau Rio Serrano Refugio before the afternoon’s activity.Optional: Kayak Lake Grey (extra fee applies)We’ll meet our specialist kayak guides at the inlet of Serrano River, and they’ll match you with a kayak and provide all the necessary equipment for a unique way to explore Lake Grey. We’ll enjoy the magic of paddling around the icebergs that have broken away from the glacier and you’ll be in awe of the unique views of the Paine mountains and their impressive granite walls. After we return to shore, we’ll head back to the refugio for lunch before our afternoon hike.Kayaking Time: 2-3 hoursAfter we regroup, we’ll walk from our refugio down to the Serrano River’s edge where we’ll hike east along the winding riverside. The trail will take us to a lookout point where we’ll have views of the Grey and Tyndall glaciers. Tyndall Glacier, also known as Geike Glacier, is one of the largest in southern Patagonia, named after the Irish glaciologist John Tyndall. The hike will take most of the afternoon, then we’ll return by vehicle to the lodge in time for dinner.Kau Rio Serrano, Torres del Paine (All meals)Hiking Distance: 12 kilometres (7.5 miles), 2-3 hoursElevation Gain: 436 metres (1,430 feet)Elevation Loss: 436 metres (1,430 feet)Day 6: Option B - Hike Los Condores & Los CuernosAfter breakfast we’ll make our way to Weber Bridge, which crosses the confluence of Lake Pehoe and Lake Del Toro, where we’ll start our hike up to Mirador Condor. We’ll hike through a small valley on the Lazo-Weber trail, crossing an ancient Lenga Forest on our way up to a lookout point. The Lenga tree, nothofagus pumilio, is a member of the beech family and has staked amidst fierce winds and a tough climate. Along the exposed subalpine slopes that mark the upper reaches of its habitable range, the Lenga tree sometimes grows into wild, twisted, wind-blown shapes. At the top, we’ll have incredible views of the entire Torres del Paine mountain range as well as Lakes Honda, Sarmiento & Verde. We’ll head back down, enjoying lunch along the way and once we reach the end of the trail, we’ll travel north toward Lake Nordenskjold. Our afternoon hike will take us to Mirador Cuernos, lying in the heart of Torres del Paine National Park, which is the best spot to view Los Cuernos, ‘The Horns’. We’ll stop off at Salto Grande along the way, a very picturesque waterfall that flows out from Lake Icefield, it is part of the world’s third largest reserve of fresh water and forms a natural dam connecting Lakes Nordenskjold and Pahoe through the Paine river. The water level on the southern side of the lake can rise up to 30 metres (90 feet) above the level of the main lake. We’ll make our way back down the trail and on to Nash Refugio for our last night’s dinner on the W trek.Kau Rio Serrano, Torres del Paine (All meals)Los Condores Lookout Hiking Distance: 6 kilometres (3.7 miles), 2-3 hoursElevation Gain: 305 metres (1,000 feet)Elevation Loss: 305 metres (1,000 feet)Los Cuernos Hiking Distance: 4 kilometres (2.5 miles), 1-2 hoursElevation Gain: 68 metres (222 feet)Elevation Loss: 68 metres (222 feet)Day 7: Option B - Hike to Ferrier, scenic cruise across Lake GreyWe’ll depart Nash Refugio for the last time this morning, making our way north toward Lake Grey. We’ll stop off at Rio Pingo where we’ll begin our morning hike, Mirador Ferriera! The hike is challenging with a short, steep climb up though you’ll be rewarded with a tremendous view of the Grey glacier and the small icebergs you may have paddled amongst a few days prior. After we’re back down from the hike, we’ll catch the boat across Lake Grey, taking in views of the surrounding mountains before docking at Grey Hotel to pick-up the W-trek hikers! Once we’ve re-grouped, we’ll return across the lake and head back to Puerto Natales, where we started our journey four days ago, for a well-earned rest and another tasty meal together.Hotel Natalino, Puerto Natales (All meals)Hiking Distance: 9 kilometres (5.6 miles), 3-5 hoursElevation Gain: 650 metres (2,148 feet)Elevation Loss: 650 metres (2,148 feet)
Day 4 Day 8: Travel To El Calafate
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8: Travel To El Calafate

Welcome to Argentina! Today we’ll cross the border to the home of Tango, Evita Peron and Diego Maradona. We’ll journey north to El Calafate and Los Glaciares National Park, one of the greatest wilderness areas in South America. It’s also one of the most diverse – in addition to the vast mountain ranges and glaciers, it’s home to forests of guindo, lenga (a type of beech tree) and ñirre scrub, as well as a multitude of lakes and rivers. We’ll arrive in El Calafate in the afternoon, so you’ll have the rest of the day to chill out on the shores of Lago Argentino, South America’s third largest lake, with a surface area of over 1,600 square kilometres (617 square miles). You can relax and enjoy your surroundings, or you can head off on one of the many hikes in the area. A particular favourite of ours is the short walk to Laguna Nimes, a renowned bird sanctuary where geese, ducks and flamingos make their home. For dinner tonight we find that most people want to explore their options or have an early dinner, though of course you’re welcome to join your guide for dinner too!Patagonia Queen Hotel, El Calafate (All meals)NOTE: The 8-day trip option ends today in Puerto Natales. We can arrange a transfer back to Punta Arenas if required (additional cost applies).
Day 5 Day 9: Visit Perito Moreno Glacier
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 9: Visit Perito Moreno Glacier

If you thought the glaciers in Chile were amazing, today will take your breath away. We’ll get right up close to the base of Perito Moreno Glacier with a local specialist guide to watch blocks of ice crack off the glacier’s imposing terminal face and fall into the pastel-blue waters of Lago Argentino. This icefield is part of the world’s third largest reserve of fresh water and forms a natural dam to the opposite shore that separates the two halves of Lago Argentino. With no escape route, the water level on the southern side of the lake can rise up to 30 metres (90 feet) above the level of the main lake.Patagonia Queen Hotel, El Calafate (All meals)
Day 6 Day 10: Hike Mirador Laguna Torre
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 10: Hike Mirador Laguna Torre

This morning we’ll travel to El Chalten, a charming and remote mountain village, known for its amazing hiking and mountaineering opportunities that quite literally begin on your doorstep. From the heart of this rapidly-growing outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, you can see the tips of Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre peaks, as well as the lovely Rio de las Vueltas winding its way past town. We’ll hike through Patagonian dry lands and dramatic boulder fields to Mirador Laguna Torre (Spanish for ‘Tower Lagoon Lookout’) for heart-stopping views up the Fitz Roy valley to Cerro Torre, a spectacular granite spire looming over a sprawling mass of ice. Today is a relatively relaxing day, in preparation for tomorrow’s big hike into the heart of Los Glaciares National Park!Hotel Posada el Barranco, El Chalten (All meals)Hiking Distance: 6 kilometres (3.7 miles), 1-3 hoursElevation Gain: 200 metres (656 feet)Elevation Loss: 200 metres (656 feet)
Day 7 Day 11: Hike To Laguna De Los Tres
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 11: Hike To Laguna De Los Tres

Today we’ll journey a short way to the start of an incredibly scenic hike to Campamento Poincenot. From here we can look directly up to the towering Monte Fitz Roy. You’ll find it hard to imagine that the views of the brooding Fitz Roy massif could get any better, and you can choose to stay here and take in the views or make the steep climb up to Laguna de Los Tres, at the foot of the glacier. All of a sudden, if you’ve chosen to go on ahead, you’ll reach the crest and be greeted by stunning close-up views of Monte Fitz Roy looming above a glacial lake. Today is a real highlight and the views are amazing, no matter how far you get!Hotel Posada el Barranco, El Chalten (All meals)Hiking Distance: 22.8 kilometres (14.2 miles), 7-9 hours (flexible)Elevation Gain: 800 metres (2,624 feet)Elevation Loss: 800 metres (2,624 feet)
Day 8 Day 12: Bike Laguna Del Desierto And Hike Los Huemules Reserve
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 12: Bike Laguna Del Desierto And Hike Los Huemules Reserve

Today we’ll journey north from El Chalten to Laguna del Desierto. We’ll take a great walk to a lookout beside the Lagoon to warm up the legs, and maybe get another view of Fitz Roy, before saddling up for an awesome bike ride that descends gently back toward El Chatlen along an unpaved road. We’ll be riding in the valley basin of the River de las Vueltas and in several spots the road runs alongside the river and past spectacular waterfalls. After regrouping for lunch at Los Huemules Reserve, we’ll switch back into our hiking boots for this afternoon and hike to the Blue & Green Lagoons.Hotel Posada el Barranco, El Chalten (All meals)Lago del Desierto Hiking Distance: 1 kilometre (0.6 mile), 0.5 hourElevation Gain: 30 metres (90 feet)Elevation Loss: 30 metres (90 feet)Hiking Distance: 5 kilometres (3 miles), 2 hoursElevation Gain: 200 metres (656 feet)Elevation Loss: 200 metres (656 feet)Biking Distance: 25.7 kilometres (16 miles), 2-3 hours, mostly flat
Day 9 Day 13: Hike Lomo Del Pliegue Tumbado
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 13: Hike Lomo Del Pliegue Tumbado

Today’s hike will give you a new appreciation for the incredibly huge and beautiful steep peaks of Southern Patagonia. We’ll begin our hike on the Loma del Pliegue trail bright and early, embarking on a 900 metre (3000 feet) hike to the top of the rounded lomo (hill). First we’ll pass through the Patagonian beech forest then ascend onto the wide plateau, where the views start getting seriously beautiful. Upon reaching the summit, we’ll be greeted by one of the most incredible sights you’re ever likely to see – the towering peak of Monte Fitz Roy rising high above the Torre Glacier and Laguna Torre. Just make sure you’ve packed your wide-angle lens to take in all of this view! Later, we’ll descend the trail back down to El Chalten and head onwards to El Calafate, where over dinner we’ll celebrate one of the best hikes anywhere in the world.Patagonia Queen Hotel, El Calafate (All meals)Hiking Distance: 22.4 kilometres (14 miles), 7-9 hours (flexible)Elevation Gain: 915 metres (3,000 feet)Elevation Loss: 915 metres (3,000 feet)
Day 10 Day 14: Depart For Home
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 14: Depart For Home

This is the end of your ‘Condor’ trip and you’ll go home knowing you’ve kayaked, biked and hiked your way around one of the most spectacular alpine regions on Earth. Your trip leader will arrange transport to the El Calafate airport for you, if you’re flying out today, and if you’re staying on, we can help you arrange extra hotel accommodation.(Breakfast)

14 days tour

Patagonia Hiking Adventure

This tour includes:

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Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Patagonia Hiking Adventure

Day 1: Arrive In Patagonia

Day 2: Cruise And Hike Magdalena Island Penguin Colony, Or Explore Cueva Del Milodón

Option A: W-Trek Hiking - Option B: W-Trek Experience (Us$499)

Day 8: Travel To El Calafate

Day 9: Visit Perito Moreno Glacier

Day 10: Hike Mirador Laguna Torre

Day 11: Hike To Laguna De Los Tres

Day 12: Bike Laguna Del Desierto And Hike Los Huemules Reserve

Day 13: Hike Lomo Del Pliegue Tumbado

Day 14: Depart For Home

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