Activities

Introduction

For the visitor, Chile is an opportunity to see incredible landscapes and be amazed at the stunning beauty, and power of nature.

However, amid the “jaw dropping” scenery are numerous activities that can be appreciated. These include visits to wineries, trekking (especially in Torres del Paine), glacier hiking, kayaking (both lake and sea), fly fishing, skiing (in the Chilean winter months), cruising around Patagonia, visiting Antarctica, bathing in hot springs, seeing penguins, whale watching, white water rafting and climbing volcanoes among many other options.

In this area of our product offering, we offer direct links to other pages in our web site that detail more information on some of the activities that we can include in your custom travel itinerary.

Remember, just send us an email: request@experiencechile.org

And we will do the rest for you!

Where Can the Activities be Experienced?

Below we will mention the principal locations where various activities can be found.

Skiing

The Andes Mountain range is the highest outside of the Himalaya. During the Chilean winter months of July and August, when it snows on the mountains the options for skiing fresh powder and pisted slopes are several. Particularly close to the capital, Santiago, are Portillo, Valle Nevado, La Parva, El Colorado and Farellones. A little further south from Santiago is a place called Puma Lodge (requires group bookings). Then, about 6hrs by car south from Santiago, near the city of Chillan is the Nevados de Chillan, followed further south by Corralco and then Pucon ski centres.

El Chalten Loma del Pliegue Tumbado Full-Day Trek

Description

This is another fantastic trek is to access a 360° viewpoint via a less used trail in the national park. The whole way to the destination is up hill. From the top at 1,484mt, there is a great panoramic over the entire National Park. The final sector is quite steep and sturdy footwear and trekking poles are required.

We advise you start your hike early and check the weather forecast. Just because weather is nice in the morning, doesn’t mean it will stay like that all day.

The first hour of walking involves crossing over small streams and through wooded areas of Ñires and Lenga trees.

Then the trail continues across the Pampas, locally called “Pampa de las Carretas” before passing through wooded sectors that are home to a variety of birds.

The trail will be marked as Laguna Toro until you reach the trail junction in approximately 4km, indicating Loma Del Pliegue Tumbado to the right.

After a good 4hr uphill walk you will likely encounter the Patagonian wind, but at the end, provided that it is a clear day, you will be able to see the summits of: Mount Fitz Roy, Mount Torre, Grande Glacier, Mount Solo, among others. Many people consider it the best panoramic view they have ever seen.

El Chalten Piedra del Fraile Full-Day Trek

Description

In order to get to the starting point of this trail you have to take a shuttle from El Chalten to Hosteria el Pilar - 17km from El Chalten. There are daily buses to the trailhead.

The beginning of the trip is on foot or following a path to the west. You will cross an open area without slopes, dotted with rocks, bushes and low ñires, where you will find some coloured marks on the stones that indicate the path. In less than half an hour of starting you will already be walking inside the lenga forest, very close to the mighty electric river, in an area protected from the wind.

The path is always close to the river, and it is gaining height very slowly.

After two hours of starting the hike, you will arrive at the Piedra del Fraile facilities located next to the Electrico river, with a camping site, a sleeping area and a small restaurant.

Ten minutes from Piedra del Fraile facilities it's located the Piedra del Fraile natural viewpoint, which is reached by a path that rapidly gains height. From this lockout you can see the Eléctrico valley to the west and to the south the north face of Cerro Chaltén, and the Mermoz and Guillaumet needles.

During the trip you will have magnificent views of Andes Mountains, views of the different granite peaks which characterize the area and a view of Marconi Path, doorway to Continental Ice fields

To return you must hike again along the path to the Hosteria del Pilar and take the bus back to El Chalten.

El Chalten Mirador Glacier Piedras Blancas Full-Day Trek

Details

Grade of difficulty: Difficult (be aware of changing weather conditions).
Distance from El Pilar to Mirador Piedras Blancas: 5.2km
Distance from Mirador Piedras Blancas to Poincenot: 2.9km
Distance from Poincenot to El Chalten village: 8.4km
Trek Time: 6hrs one way.
Experience Required: You need to be reasonably fit. No trekking experience required, but you should be accustomed to long walks, and trekking poles recommended.
Season: All year round, but in the winter, it depends on conditions.

Description

This is a good option if the weather conditions do not permit for the climb up to Laguna de Los Tres.

To get to the starting point of this trail you must take a shuttle from El Chalten to Hosteria el Pilar - 17km from El Chalten.

The start of this lovely walk is on a path that borders the Blanco river and after 45 minutes there is a great view of the Piedras Blancas glacier, which is one of the lowest in the area.

If you wish to get closer to the icebergs in the lagoon you need to continue on the same path to the Camping Site Poincenot and from there cross over the Río Blanco from where you can access the area where the icebergs will be.

You continue along the same path until you reach the creek Piedras Blancas, which descends from West to East and is one hour walk away from the Camping Poincenot. You then retake the path bordering the river on the right side and cross it almost where its source is and you will finally be at the lagoon and close to the icebergs.

If you do not go to the lagoon as described above, the path you were originally on then ascends gently through a forest, the trail begins the slight ascent, which at times moves away to return to approach the course of the river as it gains height, always in a North-South direction. In less than an hour, you will arrive at the gate where the protected area of Los Glaciares National Park begins.

After approximately two hours of walking, you will reach the viewpoint and you will see the beautiful Piedras Blancas glacier, about 2,000m away, hopefully, it is possible to witness some of the small glacier breaks that happen during the summer.

If you continue walking you will get to Poincenot and Rio Blanco campsites where the footpath splits into two with one direction heading to Mount Fitzroy and the other to Laguna Capri - where there is a campsite area, but no services.

On the trek looping back to El Chalten it winds its way down the valley passing through a Lenga and Ñire-tree forest.

El Chalten Laguna de Los Tres Full-Day Trek from Hosteria Pilar

Description

This trail is less traveled than the main trail (walking from the village).

In order to get to the starting point of this trail you have to take a shuttle from El Chalten to Hosteria el Pilar - 17km from El Chalten. There are daily buses to the trailhead.

This is a simple trail that goes through a well-populated Lenga forest, the slope is quite steep until you reach the Del Salto gorge. From this point, it is already possible to begin to see several glaciers in the distance, after that you will pass by some pretty views of the Rio Electrico Valley and Piedras Blancas Glacier.

After approximately 6km, you will join the normal route that comes from Laguna Capri. Almost immediately afterward, it goes back into the forest, and after only 120 meters from the junction, you reach the Poincenot campsite.

Here, the hike is the most demanding part of the trek, ascending a steep slope until finally reaching Laguna de los Tres where there is the majestic sight of Mt Fitz Roy, “Los Tres” Glacier and its lagoons.

This option offers a perfect loop that goes via Laguna Capri and then dropping back into El Chalten village.

El Chalten Poincenot Full-Day Trek from Hosteria Pilar

Description

This trail is less traveled than the main trail (walking from the village).

In order to get to the starting point of this trail you have to take a shuttle from El Chalten to Hosteria el Pilar - 17km from El Chalten. There are daily buses to the trailhead.

This is a simple trail that goes through a well-populated Lenga forest, the slope is quite steep until you reach the Del Salto stream. From this point, it is already possible to begin to see several glaciers in the distance, after that you will pass by some pretty views of the Rio Electrico Valley and Piedras Blancas Glacier.

After approximately 6km, you will join the normal route that comes from Laguna Capri. Almost immediately afterwards, the path goes back into the forest, and after only 120 meters from the junction, it reaches the Poincenot campsite.

El Chalten Mirador Maestri Full-Day Trek

Description

The trail head begins at the northern edge of El Chalten village. The initial minutes is all uphill until you reach the small Ñirre forest. From here, the path starts to gain height until is levels out beside the Fitz Roy River at a viewpoint of the river canyon and the Margarita waterfall.

After 2.5 km of walking, you will arrive at Mount Torre viewpoint. Here you can enjoy the most magnificent view of Mount Torre, the Adela range, and its glaciers.

One hour of walking later, you will reach a natural viewpoint with an incomparable panoramic view of the Adela mountain range and the Mount Torre and the granite spiers that accompany it. The path finally crosses the De Agostini base camp, where it is possible to spend the night.

You will walk through large Lenga forests, and also over old glacial moraines and wet plains formed by the previous courses of the river until you get to Laguna Torre.

At Laguna Torre, it is usual to see huge icebergs, ice which has fallen off the Torre glacier face.

The final part of the trail leads to the Mirador Maestri viewpoint. Starting from the northern bank of the Laguna Torre the trail continues for 2 km more until it reaches the lookout.

The trail does not continue, therefore, in order to return you need to take the same trail back.

El Chalten Laguna Torre Full-Day Trek

Description

After 2.5km of walking, we arrive at Mount Torre viewpoint. Here you can enjoy the most magnificent view of Mount Torre, the Adela range and its glaciers.

You will walk through large Lenga forests, and also over old glacial moraines and wet plains formed by the previous courses of the river until you get to Laguna Torre.

At Laguna Torre, it is usual to see huge icebergs, ice which has fallen off the Torre glacier face.

After a rest at the lagoon, you can start your trek back to El Chaltén

El Chalten Campamento de Agostini
Full-Day Trek

Description

This is one of the classic trekking trails from El Chaltén offering a wonderful view at the destination, but also a lot of uphill trekking.

From El Chaltén you need to take the trail to the Laguna Torre and after a small climb you will enter a small Ñire forest. From here, the path starts to ascend until it levels out alongside the Fitzroy River up to the viewpoint of the river canyon and the Margarita waterfall.

From the viewpoint after about an hour of walking you will arrive at the Mount Torre viewpoint. Here are some of the most magnificent views of Mount Torre, the Adela range, and glaciers.

The trek continues for 2 hours through thick Lenga forests, crossing old glacial moraines and wet plains formed by the previous courses of the river, until you arrive at Laguna Torre and camp de Agostini.

At Laguna Torre it is usual to see huge icebergs that have fallen off the Torre glacier face.

Del Desierto Lake and Huemul Glacier
Full-Day Trek from El Chalten

Description

You need to depart from El Chalten village by private transfer, or car, heading north, bordering the De las Vueltas river. After about one hour you will arrive to the southern point of Lake del Desierto and here is where the trek begins.

This beautiful lake is located at the end of the valley of the De las Vueltas river. Its name does not honor this paradise of forests, turquoise water, hills, glaciers and waterfalls where you can take walks and excursions of different duration and difficulty.

Went you arrive to Lago del Desierto, you can park in a free parking area in Punta Sur.

Before you enter you must go to the entrance of the property and pay the fee, where you will find the start of the trail.

The trail quickly enters a Lenga forest and in a few minutes, begins its ascent along a well-marked path. In just over half an hour of ascent you will reach a ridge with panoramic views of the De las Vueltas river valley and the Fitz Roy and you will see the Huemul glacier.

The Huemul glacier breaks into icebergs which lie in the Huemul lagoon - a lagoon of dark-blue waters, typical of the colour of the icebergs.

To return you must hike again along the path to Punta Sur parking lot and drive back to El Chalten.

El Chalten Madre Hija Lagoons
Full-Day Trek

Description

One of the most used trails in the park because it joins the two other most walked trails in the park, the one that goes to Laguna los Tres and Cerro Torre.

The trail begins at the end of Avenida San Martín. During the first hour of walking, you will have access to a natural viewpoint of the De las Vueltas river valley.

After a few minutes of hiking, you will enter the valley of the Del Salto gorge in the direction of Mount Fitz Roy. You will find a Ñirre forest and approximately after an hour and a half of walking, the trail leads to a well-marked natural, rocky viewpoint, with an information board that describes the mountainous and glacial panorama that can be viewed.

The trail continues up the Del Salto stream to the drainage area of the Madre and Hija lagoons.

El Chalten Laguna de Los Tres
& Laguna Sucia

Description

This is the classic, most stunning and memorable trek at El Chalten. However, the final sector is steep and not recommended on windy or wet days. Sturdy footwear and trekking poles are recommended.

After 20 minutes ascending from El Chalten, you will walk through a forest and into open, often windy areas, however, from here there is a superb view of the Rio de las Vueltas valley.

The pathway will split into two at a sign-posted fork, and you can choose to go to the Mount Fitz Roy viewpoint or go to Laguna Capri where there is a free camping site, but without services. At a later stage both paths join again to go to the Poincenot camping site.

At the first Fitz Roy viewpoint you will get the dramatic sight of the entire Fitz Roy Massif. From here, continue walking for two more hours through beautiful forests full of Lengas and Ñires trees until you reach the Rio Blanco. Here, the hike is the most demanding part of the trek, ascending a steep slope until finally reaching Laguna de los Tres where there is the majestic sight of Mt Fitz Roy, “Los Tres” Glacier and its lagoons.

El Chalten Campamento Poincenot
Full-Day Trek from the Village

Description

Two trails lead to the base camp Poincenot, but here we will explain the path that starts from El Chalten village and then you take the same route to get to Laguna Capri (see Laguna Capri trek info), but at the trail fork, you take the path sign-posted to Poincenot.

This trek offers a great viewpoint to the Fitzroy range. It is an easy but long trek. This walk allows you to enjoy the mountains, glaciers, glacial valleys, Patagonian forests, and lagoons.

The trail head start is located at the end of the main San Martin Avenue. This is also the current northern urban limit of El Chalten village.

During the first thirty minutes the trail is quite steep until you reach the natural viewpoint of the De las Vueltas valley.

Shortly after the viewpoint, you will enter the Del Salto river valley heading towards Mount Fitz Roy. The path winds its way up the glacially-formed valley side, affording a lovely view. After about one and a half hours more trekking you will notice the beginning of the Patagonia forest of Ñires and Lenga trees until you reach a signposted fork that indicates the footpath to Laguna Capri is to the left and to the right is to the viewpoint of the Mount Fitz Roy and Laguna de Los Tres, you must take the trail from the right.

From here you will walk a further 2hrs through a forest of Lenga and Ñires trees, the trail continues going up the Del Salto stream to the drainage area of the Madre and Hija lagoons and after that you arrive to Rio Blanco where the camp site is located. Poincenot campsite is a good spot to take pictures of Fitz Roy during sunrise.

El Chalten Mirador de Los Condores
2hr Trek

Description

This is one of the shortest walks from El Chaltén and takes you to a viewpoint on the top of a small hill called Cóndores, which overlooks the village of El Chaltén. Often there are excellent views to the surrounding mountains, and these can be particularly special at sunrise and sunset.

Starting from the park ranger station located in the southern sector of the village, you will walk a few meters and pass a small gate. A sign will indicate the way to go and from here it will be another half an hour until you reach the Los Cóndores viewpoint. This path is relatively new, as it was created in 2004. It is very well signposted and on the path, there are several information boards that reveal details of the surrounding landscape.

As its name indicates, the viewpoint is located at a strategic point for the eventual observation of condors on their frequent glide path to and from the Fitz Roy river valley.

Staring at the sunset from this viewpoint can be a great farewell to your stay in El Chaltén.

Mirador de Las Aguilas
Half-Day Trek

Description

The start is along the same trail that goes to the Mirador de los Condores. However, ten minutes before getting to the turn off to the Condores trail, you must take the trail to Mirador de los Aguilas, which will be sign-posted.

Starting from the park ranger station, located in the southern sector of the village, you will walk a few meters and pass a small gate. A sign will indicate the way to go, and from here it will be another 45 minutes until you reach the Las Aguilas viewpoint. The trail is well signposted and on its way, there are several information boards that explain features of the landscape around you.

After you take the trail to Mirador Las Aguilas, the path endures a gentle altitude gain which, as it progresses, reveals the great Viedma lake on the horizon.

Once at the viewpoint, you will get an excellent view of Lago Viedma, Cerro Piramide, Bahia Tunel, and typical Patagonian landscape scenery.

El Chalten Mirador del Torre
Half-Day Trek

El Chalten Laguna Capri
Half-Day Trek

Description

This trek offers a great viewpoint to the Fitzroy range. It is an easy trek perfect for those short of time or not wanting to trek all day. This walk allows you to enjoy the mountains, glaciers, glacial valleys, Patagonian forests and lagoons.

The trail head start is located at the end of the main San Martin Avenue. This is also the current northern urban limit of El Chalten village.

During the first thirty minutes the trail is quite steep until you reach the natural viewpoint of the De las Vueltas valley.

Shortly after the viewpoint you will enter the Del Salto river valley heading towards Mount Fitz Roy. The path winds its way up the glacially-formed valley side, affording a lovely view. After about one and a half hours more trekking you will notice the beginning of the Patagonia forest of Ñires and Lenga trees until you reach a signposted fork that indicates the footpath to Laguna Capri is to the left and to the right is to the viewpoint of the Mount Fitz Roy and Laguna de los Tres.

Laguna Capri is a crystal-clear lagoon from where you will also get a stunning view, on a clear day, of the Fitzroy mountain. If you have time and can afford another 45 minutes (one way, double it for the return) you can trek to the Laguna de los Tres (Fitzroy viewpoint).

After visiting the lagoon, you will return to El Chalten along the same trail.

El Chalten Chorrillo del Salto
Half-Day Trek

Description

This is a waterfall located 4km from the village. Access is by walking, car, or bike (in the last section of the trail you can enter only on foot).

This beautiful path is completely flat, between low trees and easy to get to and it’s a perfect walk to make a first contact with the natural environment of El Chaltén.

At the end of the route, you will find a beautiful waterfall of approximately 20 metres high. It is a lovely place surrounded by a leafy forest.

On the coldest days of winter, when the temperature drops to -20ºC or more, the waterfall begins to freeze to the point of being completely covered in ice.

Kayak with Whales, Punta Arenas, Patagonia

About

Details

Logistics

Pictures

Clothes to Bring

Included/Not Included

You may, as a result of travel logistics, find yourself in Punta Arenas. Consequently, you may be thinking how best you can use your time here. If you are someone who likes to sea kayak and also want to see whales, then this is the trip for you.

This is a very long, full-day excursion that will take you into one of the remotest, pristine places on Earth at the southern-most tip of the American continent. Moreover, you will enter the “Francisco Coloane” marine park, whereupon an amazing variety of marine and bird life is to be found. For example, Humpback whales, sea lions, cormorants, dolphins; native forests; glaciers and clean air! And here you will be able to paddle a kayak in the channel and get a little closer to the massive Humpback whales that feed here.

Itinerary Summary

04:00hrs – Check-in at the office, located at José Nogueira #1255, Punta Arenas
04:15hrs – Transfer to the Carrera Bay for embarkation. This is around 50km south from Punta Arenas.
05:00hrs – The boat “sets sail” for the first part of the navigation along the legendary Strait of Magellan, observing the beauty of Tierra del Fuego, passing by Fort Bulnes and then the Light House “Faro San Isidro”.
06:30hrs – We pass by Cape Froward, the southern-most point of the American continent and, effectively, the point where the Pacific meets the Atlantic.
09:00hrs – Will be when our boat will be in the “Francisco Coloane” marine park, whereupon, if we are fortunate, we expect to see whales, penguins, cormorants, petrels, sea lions, sea elephants, albatross’s and maybe some orcas. Also, there will be a visit to see the glaciers on the Santa Ines island.
10:30hrs - 13:00hrs - Kayak with whales.
15:05hrs – Start the return to Punta Arenas.
14:05 - 18:00 - Arrival to Punta Arenas.

Remote Wilderness

The area of sea that contains the feeding ground for the Humpback whales is called “Francisco Coloane” Marine Park. Above all, this channel of water is home to a large biodiversity of marine live. However, it was as a consequence of a decision to study of whales from a base located on Carlos III Island that then created the need to give some kind of protection to these creatures. As a result, this area of water was formally allocated the status of a marine park in 2003. This has now developed into a tourist destination.

The marine park covers 67,000 hectares of sea and is southeast of Carlos III Island. Most importantly, this island is located in the Magellan Strait, on the Pacific side of the Chilean coast not too far west from Punta Arenas. Most importantly, because of its remote location the area is totally pristine, wild and natural where Patagonia can be experienced in its true form: raw. That is to say, that within this part of the world are many native, forested islands, hanging glaciers. On the other hand there are large glaciers that come down from the peaks to meet the sea. Moreover, there are narrow channels and plenty of marine fauna, including Humpback whales, and on occasion Sei and Mink whales, as well as dolphins.

It is a place where the wind can howl, mist touches the low-level mountain tops, clean, fresh air enters the lungs, dolphins pass by to say “hello”, the chirp of birds break the natural silence, ancient trees cling to steep island sides and diving whales gently break the water’s surface.

Considering that the navigation to the marine park takes several hours, plus time there, and several hours to return it is a long day. For example, the full day will last between 12 to 14 hrs, and pick-up is at the unsociable hour of 04:00hrs. Therefore, you need a previous good nights’s sleep.

Check-in is at an office in the centre of Punta Arenas at 05:00hrs, two blocks from the central plaza of the city. Most importantly, we will book you in to a hotel close to the check-in office. However, after check-in you will be taken by bus to the embarkation point, which is about 50km (1hr) west of Punta Arenas, whereupon boarding is at around 06:00hrs. Moreover, this is also the time of the sunrise over the Tierra del Fuego – which is a beautiful sight. Following the sunrise the navigation will be along the western end of the Magellan Stretch, passing an historic Chilean fort called Bulnes, which was also the location of the first settlement of Punta Arenas (Sandy Point).

Southern-Most Point of Continental South America

Approximately two hours after the boat “sets sail”, that is to say between 07:30hrs to 08:30hrs you will pass the southern-most point of continental South America called Cape Froward. As a result, you will see the lighthouse, which marks the spot. In addition, you will see native flora and forests coming down to the sea, hanging glaciers and generally beautiful landscapes. In other words, what you see is pretty much what the first explorers saw too, not much has changed.

Then between 10:00hrs to 13:00hrs the boat will enter the marine park called “Francisco Coloane” within which are Humpback Whales diving for food. Moreover, there are Magellan penguins, sea lions and sea elephants in the water, or on coastal rocks; austral dolphins, cormorants and albatross among the variety of sea birds.

After a long day at approximately between 17:00hrs to 19:00hrs the trip ends back in Punta Arenas.

Did you know that each Humpback whale has its own, distinct markings on its tail fin? For example, like a human with fingerprints, the individual markings on the tail enable researchers to identify the different whales. Consequently, there are many pictures of the tails of Humpback whales as they dive for food. Most importantly, make sure you are ready to snap your own iconic picture of a whale as it dives for food and flips its huge tail in the air!

Above all, the excursion will involve a long time on board a fast speed, covered zodiac into the marine park. Therefore, you will need to stay the previous night and the night after the excursion in Punta Arenas. For this reason, we will include two nights in your Patagonia itinerary and also book your hotel.

Considering that in Patagonia there are “four seasons in one day”, in other words the weather constantly changes, you need to be prepared.

For example, you will need to have a warm, waterproof jacket, warm under garment like a fleece, then an under garment, gloves, warm hat, lip balm, sunglasses, sun block cream, waterproof trekking pants and trekking shoes or boots. In conclusion, the same clothes you will need for any Patagonia activity. In addition, because you are on the water, the temperature may feel colder than it you were on land.

Trek Hito XXIV, Tierra del Fuego National Park, Ushuaia, Patagonia

About

Details

Description

The “Hito XXIV” is the last of the 24 geodesic points that define the border between Argentina and Chile on the island of Tierra del Fuego. The first is in the northernmost point on the island, and this is the last point at the south of Tierra del Fuego.

The trekking route begins at Acigami Lake (formerly Roca Lake) from where there is a well-marked path. The trail will take you to the lake until you reach a crossroad where the path will deviate. One path will now lead to the ascent of Cerro Guanaco, and the other will lead to the beach and the border post marker “Hito XXIV”.

The entire trail continues bordering the Acigami Lake until it reaches the “Hito XXIV”, consequently it will remain reasonably flat.

It is a simple and low difficulty route, and therefore ideal to do as a family or with children, although in some areas there will natural obstacles such as a fallen tree.

Sendero de la Costa Trek, Tierra del Fuego National Park, Ushuaia, Patagonia

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The Cerro Guanaco Trek, Tierra del Fuego National Park, Ushuaia, Patagonia

About

Details

Introduction

This is one of the more demanding treks in the National Park because it requires a steady, uphill climb to 1,000m above sea level. The trek will go through a Lenga forest, but also over muddy, difficult sectors where exposed roots and wet soil make for a difficult and, sometimes messy, walk.

After the forest the are is exposed, just before reaching the summit. However, once at the top you will, on a clear day, receive wonderful views over the Beagle channel and the Navarino Island opposite.

Description

The hill called Cerro Guanaco is one of the more demanding treks because it requires climb to nearly 1,000 meters of elevation. The trail begins at Lake Acigami (previously known as Lake Roca), and from here the clearly signed path will show you where you need to head. At one point you will arrive at a junction. At this point, the trail splits into two with one path leading to Acigami Lake (formerly Roca Lake) where the “Hito XXIV” border marker is and the other trail marks the start of the climb up to Cerro Guanaco.

The first part of this trail will pass through a Lenga forest and the roots of the trees provide a useful, natural “staircase” in which to climb up the ascent. Just prior to exiting he forest it is usually quite muddy, which means slippery too. This muddy sector can, however, be avoided if you can spot the cloth hanging from a tree to your right. Follow this trail and you will avoid the muddy part. On the descent it will be the other way around and you will find another piece of cloth in a tree on the left to indicate the route to avoid the mud.

Upon exiting the forest, the trail is reasonably flat prior to the final ascent to the summit. If it has rained trekkers need to be careful in this flat sector because deep puddles may have formed. The final sector is also exposed with no protection from the wind, and the trail is often in a bad state.

This final stretch is almost 2.5km and is the most demanding of the trail. If the wind is blowing you need to be careful, especially in strong gusts. There can also be snow at this altitude, even in the summer!

However, if you make it to the summit the reward is the panoramic views of Ushuaia city, Tierra del Fuego National Park, the Beagle Channel and the Chilean, Navarino Island. Beyond Navarino Island, on a clear day, you will also be able the far-off island of Cape Horn – the real “end of the World”!

Tha Bahia Lapataia Trek, Tierra del Fuego National Park, Ushuaia, Patagonia

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Details

Catamaran Navigation into the Beagle Channel, Ushuaia, Patagonia

About

Details

Included/Not Included

Introduction

Close to the port are numerous catamarans that operate a half-day tour into the Beagle Channel to see the marine wildlife such as sea lions, cormorants, penguins and to visit one of the oldest estancias in the area.

Detail of the following navigations can be found in the 'Detail' tab above :

The Navigation to see sea lions and cormorants.
The Navigation that includes an estancia visit.
The Navigation that includes a visit to a penguin colony.

The catamaran is well-designed in terms of viewing from inside or outside on deck, the tour, with guided commentary, passes by cormorant and sea lion colonies and on some other tours, you will see penguins.

On the tour, that sometimes includes a stop off on an island, you will disembark and be able to walk around the island, which gives you the feeling that you are in the middle of the Beagle Channel. From here you can admire the surrounding beauty of the area, the Andes mountains, Ushuaia on one side and the Chilean island of Navarino on the other side.

Excellent for photo opportunities of marine life. Coffee and biscuits served on board.

The navigation will pass by the historically famous Ushuaia lighthouse.

Description

The navigation starts from the Tourist Pier of Ushuaia, in the direction to the Beagle Channel. From the back (stern) of the boat there is a direct view of Ushuaia city and the surrounding mountains.

If you are on this tour the route the route heads southwest towards the island of Los Lobos, where, from the boat, you will be able to view sea lions at close quarters.

Next is the island of Los Pájaros, the natural habitat of Magellan and Imperial cormorants. Again, from the catamaran you will be able to see, at close quarters, these aquatic birds nesting.

The navigation continues to the Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, in the archipelago of the same name, where the ship Monte Cervantes sank in 1930.

The return will be through Paso Chico, from where you will be able to see the historic, early settler estancias of Túnel and Fique. During the return to the city, you will get a view of the Monte Martial glacier behind Ushuaia.

Description

The navigation starts from the Tourist Pier of Ushuaia, in the direction to the Beagle Channel. From the back (stern) of the boat there is a direct view of Ushuaia city and the surrounding mountains.

The route heads southwest towards the island of Los Lobos, where, from the boat, you will be able to view sea lions at close quarters.

Next is the island of Los Pájaros, the natural habitat of Magellan and Imperial cormorants. Again, from the catamaran you will be able to see, at close quarters, these aquatic birds nesting.

The navigation continues to the Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, in the archipelago of the same name, where the ship Monte Cervantes sank in 1930.

The navigation continues to where Estancia Harberton is located. This belonged to the Bridge family and was a prefabricated building made in England and brought over to Patagonia. The family decided to settle here after the closure of the Anglican Mission in Ushuaia.

The tour of the Estancia will include the nature reserve, the Bridge family cemetery, the sheep-shearing shed and housing facilities.

The return back to Ushuaia will be by road transfer.

Description

The navigation starts from the Tourist Pier of Ushuaia, in the direction to the Beagle Channel. From the back (stern) of the boat there is a direct view of Ushuaia city and the surrounding mountains.

If you are on this trip the route heads southwest towards the island of Los Lobos, where, from the boat, you will be able to view sea lions at close quarters.

Next is the island of Los Pájaros, the natural habitat of Magellan and Imperial cormorants. Again, from the catamaran you will be able to see, at close quarters, these aquatic birds nesting.

The navigation continues to the Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, in the archipelago of the same name, where the ship Monte Cervantes sank in 1930.

Following the southern coast of the Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego, we will see Estancia Remolino where the Monte Sarmiento ship is stranded. Crossing the Beagle Channel in a North-South direction, we will see Gable Island and the Puerto Williams Naval Base (located on Navarino Island, Republic of Chile). Upon reaching Martillo Island we approach the beach and there we will descend. It is amazing to observe how the colony of Magellanic Penguins that nest during the summer season approach the boat with remarkable curiosity, enter the sea by swimming under the catamaran and re-emerge. A party that invites us to take countless photographs.

From here we return by sailing to the Tourist Pier, looking out the Estancias Tunnel and Fique on the way.

Trekking and Canoe Activity in Tierra del Fuego National Park

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Description

This is full day activity involving a long walk within the Tierra del Fuego National Park and also navigating an inflatable canoe on a river to pass directly through the natural wilderness. The river route will take you to places that are inaccessible by road or footpath and enable you to see landscapes that have not changed since the days of the indigenous Yamana settlers were living in this region.

The first part of the day will begin from pick-up at your hotel between 08:00hrs to 08:40hrs depending on where your hotel is located in Ushuaia (all passengers will be collected from their various hotels one after the other). The road transfer to the Tierra del Fuego National Park is 15km from Ushuaia centre. The trek will start around 09:30hrs walking along 7km of the coastal trekking trail passing through wooded areas, and close to rivers and lakes. The difference between the lower and higher elevations of the trail is 170mts.

Upon reaching Acigami Lake (formally known as Roca Lake) at around 12:15hrs lunch will be served in the dining tent.

After lunch, at around 13:30hrs, you will receive some instruction about handling the canoes. Once everyone feels comfortable about the technique required you will get into your own inflatable canoe and navigate along the slow-moving Lapataia and the Ovando river until you arrive at the delta where the fresh water meets the salt water - the point where the river flows into the Lapataia Bay. The river route passes directly through a natural wilderness where nature’s beauty and tranquillity can be experienced in a direct and personal way.

After arrival to Lapataia Bay at around 15:15hrs you will get onto the bus for the road transfer back to Ushuaia.

4 x 4 Back Country Off Road Experience, Ushuaia, Patagonia

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Description

This is one of our most fun and intense excursions, where you can get to know the behind the Southern Andes. It is suitable for all types of travellers and is quite different from conventional excursions. Spend a day relaxing and having fun, experiencing an off-road ride. Get into the adventure as you enjoy the beautiful landscapes. From the Andes Range, we will catch sight of Escondido Lake, a little wonder hidden deep into a valley.

Then, the giant and marvellous Fagnano Lake, which will be the centre of our day. The fun and enjoyment do not depend on the climate, as we will go through the woods and river, covered in snow and ice, riding a Land Rover Defender, among trees and bordering a lake with unique sights.

The experienced guide, food and Argentine, Malbec wines shared with travellers from all parts of the world will add up to a unique experience. You will also enjoy a great view of the Fagnano Lake from inside our own shelter. This adventure is suitable for every traveller who wishes to have fun and break free from everything, getting deep into a forest.

Points of interest: Carbajal Valley and Tierra Mayor, Garibaldi Crossing, Lake Escondido, Bronzovich Sawmill, Beaver Dams, Lake Fagnano.

Zodiac into Torres del Paine From Puerto Natales

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Description

So, at long last you will be coming to Patagonia, maybe your “once in a lifetime” trip? No doubt you have planned to walk the W Trek, or stay at a top-end, luxury lodge. In all cases, we are local specialists and can build you the itinerary of your dreams. However, there is one activity that a lot of people miss, and it is this one below that we will describe to you.

We offer you an alternative and exciting way to get to Torres del Paine from Puerto Natales.

For example, most people make their way from Puerto Natales to Torres del Paine on the bus, or by private transfer. However, we offer you a chance to go up the Serrano river. In other words, a fresh way to get from Puerto Natales to Torres del Paine as a full-day excursion that serves as a unique transfer service at the same time.

The trip can be divided into two parts. The first part is on board a catamaran, which, at times, can feel as though it is overcrowded, only because it caters for a large number of passengers. The second part is on the much smaller, and personal, fast-speed zodiac that races up river. We can also arrange for a rent a car and your luggage to be dropped at the end of the trip in Torres del Paine as well.

Most importantly, we can build this excursion into any Torres del Paine Itinerary we are arranging for you.

The Start

After embarkation, the catamaran will navigate along the fiord called Sound of Last Hope (“Seno de Ultima Esperanza”). Moreover, the navigational route passes by amazing geographical evidence of previous ice-ages and unbelievable-looking layers of rock sediment. That is to say, that these layers of rock have been contorted from the horizontal, bent into u-shapes and / or turned vertical from the sheer forces of nature. In addition to amazing rock formations, along the way there may be some cormorants and other birds to see, as well as a waterfall. This part of the trip, which lasts about 2hrs, gets interesting as it approaches the end of the fiord where the hanging glaciers of Balmaceda and Serrano can be seen.

We all know that global warming is affecting the entire planet. Consequently, there is no surprise to see that the Balmaceda glacier has retreated considerably over the past decade. As a result, it has revealed an orange-coloured, smooth rock surface that contrasts artistically with the blue hue of the glacier, and vivid green of the foliage either side. Therefore, although it is sad to see a retreating glacier, the combined natural colours of nature make for a wonderful picture. Talking of pictures, you will have photo opportunities everywhere you look. Therefore, please make sure you bring your camera or cel phone.

Closer to the Serrano glacier the catamaran will dock, and passengers encouraged to disembark. Most importantly, everyone will be able to walk through a native wood to a small lagoon, whereupon the Serrano glacier comes down from the mountain and breaks off into icebergs that float in the water. Consequently, this is an impressive, as well as a pretty spectacle.

Towards Torres del Paine National Park

During the re-embarkation process, those passengers who are not returning to Puerto Natales will get into zodiac dinghies. Most importantly, they will be handed wet-weather gear and life jackets. They will then be taken across the river delta to a Patagonian lodge for a typical Patagonian lunch. This is a very tranquil place facing the amazing white-blue Serrano glacier, with the slow-moving Serrano river passing by, birds chirping and surrounded by the natural flora. As a result, this is the ideal place to relax.

The Zodiac

After lunch passengers will get back into the zodiacs and start the fast-speed trip up the river Serrano and into the National Park Bernard O´Higgins, the park that borders Torres del Paine. The route is up river passing by the forested banks either side, and fauna that happen to be eating or watching from the river banks. Most importantly, towards the final 30mins of fast-speeding up river, if weather permits, you will see the cuernos of Torres del Paine in the distance, and its hanging glaciers. In other words, you will have made it to Torres del Paine.

Arrival is usually around 16:30hrs to the Serrano Sector. From this location there are wonderful views of the Torres del Paine central massif. Therefore, again, this is a great photo opportunity.

Most importantly, we need to arrange your onward transfer to accommodation in Torres del Paine or back to Puerto Natales, which we will have booked for you. However, note that officially Serrano Sector is NOT in Torres del Paine, but literally on the border. Consequently, when you actually enter through an official Torres del Paine entrance you will need to pay the entrance fee, unless we have already arranged that for you previously.

Upon arrival to Torres del Paine we can either get you to your hotel in Torres del Paine or bring you back to Puerto Natales.

Considering that Patagonia is at “the end of the World”, with the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other side, the weather is often windy and very changeable. Consequently, visitors need to be prepared for any weather. For this reason please pack clothing that you can put on and take off as you get cold and get hot. After walking you will likely get hot, but when standing around you will get cold. Therefore, bring warm hats, gloves, waterproof top and hiking boots, as well as a pair of sunglasses. However, for the zodiac navigation you will be provided with all the wet weather gear you will need for the trip, and this goes over your usual clothing.

Serrano Glacier Full Day from Puerto Natales

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Our View Point

As a result of our arranging your accommodation in Puerto Natales, we will organise to collect you from your hotel at around 07:30hrs. However, this time depends on which hotel we have you booked in to. Above all, the transfer to the small port called Bories, will only take five minutes to cover the 5km north from Natales centre.

EMBARKATION

We all know that global warming is affecting the entire planet. Consequently, there is no surprise to see that the Balmaceda glacier has retreated considerably over the past decade. As a result, it has revealed an orange-coloured, smooth rock surface that contrasts artistically with the blue hue of the glacier, and vivid green of the foliage either side. Although it is sad to see a retreating glacier, the combined natural colours of nature make for a wonderful picture. Talking of pictures, you will have photo opportunities everywhere you look. Therefore, please make sure you bring your camera or cell phone.

THE GLACIER SERRANO

After about 2hrs of navigation along the fiord from Puerto Natales you will arrive to the base of the Glacier Serrano, whereupon the boat will dock. Once the catamaran has secured its mooring passengers will disembark. During the next two hours passengers will have the option of a short, 30-minute walk through a native woodland, and on to an area from where you can view the Glacier Serrano coming down from the mountain and into a lagoon.

Most importantly, the view of the glacier will be at close range, therefore this is also a great photo opportunity. Moreover, the catamaran staff capture some of the millennial ice to serve with whisky when you are back on board.

THE RETURN TO PUERTO NATALES

After the trek through the woods to see the Serrano Glacier, so after about 2hrs, passengers will board the waiting catamaran for the more serene navigation along the Fiord of Last Hope towards Puerto Natales. During this sector, millennial ice that the crew will have captured in the lagoon, will be served with whisky during the navigation. However, there will be stop at an estancia for a Patagonian lunch, and as a result of this you will enjoy a fine view of the beautiful, surrounding landscape. However, the lunch will be a Patagonian barbeque, meaning meat. Great for meat eaters, but, on the other hand, if you are a vegetarian please mention this early on.

Once everyone has finished lunch and got back on board the navigation will continue to Puerto Natales, arriving around 17:00hrs. Therefore, we will transfer you to your hotel.

In conclusion, you will have had an exhilarating day and one more Patagonia experience to remember.

Half Day, 8 x 8 Up Dorotea Mountain, Puerto Natales, Patagonia

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Description

The robust 8 x 8-wheel drive truck makes its way through the streets of Puerto Natales until it reaches the track where it starts its climb up the steep-side Dorotea mountain.

Upon arrival to the viewpoint the passengers will disembark to enjoy a short walk to see local flora and maybe some fossils. The fossils are evidence that the entire area was, at one time in history, submerged under sea water.

From the high 600m altitude the view is impressive taking in the village of Puerto Natales in its entirety as well as the channels and fiords. Also, in the far distance it is possible to see some of the Serrano and Balmaceda glaciers at the end of the fiord of last hope.

The guide will talk about the history behind Puerto Natales, its geology, how the hills and mountains were formed as well as show some of the marine fossils from the area.

The Milodon Cave, Puerto Natales, Patagonia

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Introduction

If you are relaxing in Puerto Natales or have a few hours to kill, a visit to the Milodon cave is well worth a visit. This is a spacious cave that penetrates a couple of hundred metres into conglomerate rock. Formed millions of years in the past, the cave is called the “Milodon” after a prehistoric creature whose bones were found in the cave. There is a sculpture of the creature that stands near the entrance.

Conglomerate rock is comprised of millions of pebbles and small stones that were brought down with the river or rivers and deposited over millions of years, layer over layer, to be mixed with sediment and compressed with considerable force into a kind of natural concrete.

Description

The caves that were formed here are a result of waves from a lake or sea that gradually penetrated the rock creating an indentation. Over time the indentation became a hole, and the hole grew larger and larger until one day, when the water receded, a cave was left. Considering that the caves were ideal, natural protection from the elements they were used by indigenous people and animals as places to shelter.

The site was declared an Historical Monument in 1968 by the Chilean Ministry of Education. However, in 1993 it was categorized as a Natural Historical Monument, incorporated into the “Sistema Natural de Areas Silvestres Protegidas” (SNASPE), which basically means it is part of the Network of Protected Natural Wildlife Areas. It has an official area of 189.5 hectares. Within this protected area are four interesting areas. These are: “La Silla del Diablo” (the Devil’s chair), a small cave, a medium-sized cave and the large, Milodon cave. It is also the start of a trek that goes north, past the caves and up to the top of the conglomerate rock where there are other historical caves and a panoramic view over Laguna Sofia.

How to Get to the Milodon Cave?

The cave is situated 25km from Puerto Natales village centre. If you are driving out from Puerto Natales you need to take the road north that passes by the fiord, which is actually the Ruta 9. Continue on this road for 16.9km until you get to a crossing where you turn left (it will be sign-posted to Milodon Cave as well as Torres del Paine).

You will now be on a road, which is officially the Y-290. Continue on this road for about 8km and you will arrive to the car park and entrance point for the Milodon cave. There will be a CONAF park entry hut where you will need to buy an entrance ticket.

Torres del Paine Full Day Discovery from El Calafate

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Description

This full-day tour will offer stop offs at most of the viewpoints of Torres del Paine National Park. The transport will be in a modern, comfortable bus with professional drivers, accompanied by bilingual guides.

Upon arrival to the Chilean side of the border there will be a rest period whereupon passengers can exchange money and buy breakfast.

After about one hour the tour will continue in the direction of Torres del Paine National Park.

The first stop off will be around 11:40hrs at the viewpoint “El Lago Sarmiento”, and
here you will be able to get off the bus and take pictures. The next stop will be at Laguna Amarga, at 12:30hrs, which is one of the main entrances into the park. At this point, you will need to pay the National Park Entrance Fee.

Apart from seeing the impressive mountain peaks of Torres del Paine, the next stop will be the “Lago Nordenskjold” viewpoint. This is a tranquil lake where you will likely (if there is no wind) be able to see the reflexion of the Torres del Paine massif in its still water.

The next stop will be the “main attraction”, which will be the mighty peaks of the Torres del Paine “cuernos” or horns as they are called in English.

The bus should arrive to the Pudeto area around 1:30hrs. From this point, we will begin a one-and-a-half-hour trek to see the “Salto Grande” (large waterfall) and beyond this the “Cuernos del Paine”. This is the typical sight of Torres del Paine known the world over.

Once everyone has taken in the spectacular views we will continue the trip beside Lake Pehoe and on to the CONAF Administration Centre arriving at around 16:00hrs. Here there is a fine presentation of the geography of the Park as well as information on the geographical history, flora, and fauna. Once everyone has rested the return to El Calafate will begin at around 17:00hrs.

La Leona Pre-Historic Petrified Forest Full Day Excursion

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Conditions

Restricted to people aged between 10 years to 65 years of age and who possess a level of reasonable fitness. This excursion is not suitable for pregnant women or people who are overweight, and it is the guides who will decide this in the event of a difference of opinion. No smoking is permitted on or during this excursion.

Description

Pick-up from your hotel at 08:00hrs. The excursion route heads east from El Calafate and onto highway 40 and to head north through open Patagonic Steppe with magnificent views of Lago Argentino. The journey crosses the River Santa Cruz and through the La Leona river valley from where, on a clear day, there is a view of Mount Fitzroy in the distance.

At La Leona hotel, a historical landmark, there is a rest for 15 minutes before continuing for a further 10km along the Southern shore of Lake Viedma and on to Los Hornos hill. At the top of this hill is a large depression formed by water erosion and this is where many fossils can be found. The area here consists of loose, dry, clay-like soil through which ancient, petrified tree trunks are clearly visible. Clients will be able to walk around the area for about 3 hrs before the return journey to El Calafate.

Patagonian Estancia El Galpon Half Day Excursion

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El Chalten Full Day Discovery Tour from El Calafate

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Description

Starting at 07:00hrs in El Calafate you will travel along Ruta 40, bordering Lake Argentino until you reach the River La Leona where, shortly afterwards the bus will stop at an historic and rustic hotel for a break.

After a coffee the trip continues along a stretch of road bordering Lake Viedma with the Andes in the background and, on a clear day, the peaks of Fitzroy and the Tower can be seen ahead.

Upon arrival to El Chalten there will be two options, depending which one has been pre-booked. These are described below.

After a visit to the welcome centre you will be taken to “Salto del Chorrillo” for a short, guided hike before returning back to El Chalten village. In El Chalten you will have free time to walk around and have lunch in a local restaurant or join a guided trek to the Estancia Madsen to a viewpoint of the Mount Fitzroy (box lunch provided). After lunch you will be taken to the port of Bahia Tunel for a 2-hour boat trip that passes in front of the Viedma Glacier.

The return journey starts at 17:00hrs to arrive back in El Calafate at 20:00hrs.

El Calafate Half Day City Tour and Walichu Caves

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Estancia Cristina Full Day Excursion

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Description

This is an historic estancia in the region that has opened its doors to visitors to show a fascinating insight into the history of the early settlers. The estancia is located on the north-eastern lakeside of Lake Argentina (Lago Argentino). Founded in 1914 by pioneer Joseph P Masters and his wife the estancia looks over a corner of The Glaciers National Park (Parque Nacional Los Glacieres).

The estancia has been preserved and maintains its historical heritage and a little piece of paradise within an otherwise inhospitable and lonely location. The Upsala Glacier is one of the most impressive glaciers in the park and only a few kilometers from the estancia. A visit here is a perfect combination of natural wilderness, adventure, and Patagonian history.

Pick-up from your hotel in El Calafate at approx 07:30hrs and transfer to “Puerto Punta Bandera” for embarkation on to a boat at 08:30hrs. From here the boat navigates through the floating glaciers that have broken off from the Upsala Glacier and on to the “Canal Cristina” to the disembarkation point. Arrival to Estancia Cristina is at 11:00hrs, whereupon the time spent here will total around 6hrs, with the return departure at 17:00hrs approx, arriving back at “Puerto Punta Bandera” at around 19:00hrs and then back to your hotel.

Discovery Tour

Duration 3 hrs.
Altitude: 550 m
Vehicle 4 x 4

This tour starts like the Classic Tour with a visit to the “Museo Costumbrista”, which is an historic barn where a talk will be given about the history of the estancia. After this there will be a tour by car or buses to the “Refugio de Hielos Continentales”, culminating in a 9.5km trip around the mountain visiting fascinating geographical sites, that were, until recently, covered by glacial ice. From the refugio there will be a walk of about 30 minutes on the surface of glacial erosion until arrival to the “Mirador del Upsala” (Upsala View Point) where there are privileged views of the Upsala Glacier, Guillermo Lake, the Patagonia Southern Ice Field and the Andes Mountains.

Horseback Riding El Calafate

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El Calafate Cerro Horse Ride

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Included

Perito Moreno Glacier Mini Trek Ice Hike

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Included/Not Included

The Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the largest glaciers in the Southern Patagonian Ice field. One of the great benefits of coming to see this glacier is that it can be viewed relatively easily from viewing points on dry land that are opposite the glacial face.

From the viewing platforms the Glacier stretches back up and into the mountains for some 30km. The glacial face has a width of about 5km and the height of the glacial sector above water is around 60mts – however, much more of it is under the water.

As a result of the combination of these vast dimensions the view is absolutely stunning. However, for those who want to get closer to this giant river of ice, you can walk on top! Here we explain a little about the full-day ice hike called “Mini Trek”.

Description

The excursion begins at the “Puerto Bajo de las Sombras” (Port Under the Shadows). This is a point located about 6km before arrival to the main viewing platforms from where people go to see Glacier Perito Moreno.

From this port the boat departs to cross the “Brazo Rico” lake for a 20 min navigation passing through the iceberg channel, past the glacial face and to the other side of the lake. Upon arrival to the other side and after disembarkation, clients will walk for about 20 min to a refugio where the guides organize people into groups of around twenty. Once everyone is ready all groups will then walk towards the glacier for about another 20 minutes to an area bordering the edge of glacier. Here, the guides will fit people with crampons and give instructions on how to walk on the ice.

The actual ice hike (walking on the glacier) will last for around 2 hours during which time you will see various ice formations unique to this natural creation. Your guide will explain how ice formations such as crevasses, small lagoons, craters are created, as well as talk about any flora and fauna in the area and the geology of the region in general.

At the end of the physical ice hike, clients will have an option to return to El Calafate or to go to the viewing point opposite the glacial face before going back to El Calafate.

Conditions - PLEASE NOTE!

Perito Moreno Glacier Big Ice Hike

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Included/Not Included

The Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the largest glaciers in the Southern Patagonian Ice field. Moreover, it can be viewed relatively easily from viewing points on dry land that are opposite the glacial face. Most impressively, from here it stretches back up and into the mountains for some 30km.

The glacial face is about 5km wide and the height of the glacial wall above water is around 60mts – with much more of it under the water. Without a doubt it is this combination of vast dimensions makes for a jaw-dropping spectacle. There are various ways to enjoy Perito Moreno, from a simple half day excursion to view it from dry land to walking on its surface or climbing down into it, which is explained here below.

Description

The excursion begins at Puerto “Bajo de las Sombras” (Port Under the Shadows - a point located about 6km before where the main viewing platforms are located to see Glacier Perito Moreno), where the boat departs to cross the “Brazo Rico” lake for a 20 min trip to the southern side of Glacier Perito Moreno. This short navigation will pass by the southern glacial face and meander through the iceberg channel.

Upon arrival to the shore, clients will disembark and will walk for about 20 mins to a refugio where the guides will organize people into groups of around twenty. Once everyone is settled the groups will then begin to walk towards the glacier for about another 20 minutes to an area bordering the river of ice. At this point, the guides will fit people with crampons and give instruction on how to walk on the ice. During the hike, your designated group guide will explain how the various ice formations are created, such as the crevasses, caves and lagoons. The guide will always lead you. The hike will last for around 3 hours, during which time lunch will be taken into the glacier.

Conditions - PLEASE NOTE!

Restricted to people aged between 18 years to 50 years of age and who possess a level of reasonable fitness. This excursion is not suitable for pregnant women or people who are overweight, and it is the guides who will decide this in the event of a difference of opinion. No smoking is permitted on or during this excursion.

Activities

Chile Activities

Introduction

Where Can the Activities be Experienced?

Trekking

Glacier Hike

Kayak

Fly Fishing

Patagonia Cruise

Antarctica Expedition

Hot Springs

Penguins

Whale Watching

White Water Rafting

Volcano Climbing

Wine Valleys

Skiing

El Chalten Loma del Pliegue Tumbado Full-Day Trek

Introduction

Details

Description

El Chalten Piedra del Fraile Full-Day Trek

Introduction

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Description

El Chalten Mirador Glacier Piedras Blancas Full-Day Trek

Introduction

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Description

El Chalten Laguna de Los Tres Full-Day Trek from Hosteria Pilar

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Description

El Chalten Poincenot Full-Day Trek from Hosteria Pilar

Introduction

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Description

El Chalten Mirador Maestri Full-Day Trek

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Description

El Chalten Laguna Torre Full-Day Trek

Introduction

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Description

El Chalten Campamento de Agostini Full-Day Trek

Introduction

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Description

Del Desierto Lake and Huemul Glacier Full-Day Trek from El Chalten

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Description

El Chalten Madre Hija Lagoons Full-Day Trek

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Description

El Chalten Laguna de Los Tres & Laguna Sucia

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Description

El Chalten Campamento Poincenot Full-Day Trek from the Village

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Description

El Chalten Mirador de Los Condores 2hr Trek

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Description

Mirador de Las Aguilas Half-Day Trek

Introduction

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Description

El Chalten Mirador del Torre Half-Day Trek

Introduction

Details

Description

El Chalten Laguna Capri Half-Day Trek

Introduction

Details