La Leona Pre-Historic Petrified Forest Full Day Excursion

Patagonia is raw nature and its prehistoric formation is evident in many areas. Geological rock formations that were created millions of years ago, for example, glaciers formed from the fall of the first snow flake hundreds of thousands of years ago and remnants of forests (petrified forests) that were growing millions of years ago.

If you have an interest in geographical history then this excursion is for you.

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.

Backpack, outdoor trekking clothes (warm, water-proof and wind-breaker jacket, trekking pants (or trousers for the English), sturdy outdoor trekking boots, hat, sun glasses, lip balm, sun-screen cream, camera and water bottle.

Included

• Pick-up and return transfers
• Box lunch