How do I get there?
When do I meet the BlueGreen leader?
What can I expect on one of your trips?
My partner and I can't decide whether to do a scheduled or a custom trip?
What is the hiking like? How fit do I need to be?
I've never kayaked before but would like to do the Blue Ice Trail. Would I be OK?
I've heard it's very remote. What are the medical facilities like?
What are the horses like?
What weather can I expect?
What type of people travel on your group trips?
What's the average group size on the scheduled trips?
I used to ride a bit as a child but haven't ridden much since. Would I be OK?
Is the riding English or Western style?
How fast is the riding?
Do you have a weight limit for the riding?
Do you have an age limit on your trips?
Is it safe to drink the water in the park?
Should I bring a backpack or a duffel bag?
Is there a lot of driving?
What about tipping?
How do I book my trip and when is payment due?
What are the tents like?
When camping, are showers available every night?
What's accommodation like in estancias and converted estancias?
What's a refugio?
What's the food like?
What should I pack?


How do I get there?

When do I meet the BlueGreen leader?

For scheduled riding and multisport trips, the leader will contact clients at their hotel in Punta Arenas shortly after their arrival.  The group normally then meets at around 7.30 p.m. to go out for dinner to meet the other members of the group and to discuss the days ahead. For clients arriving late, information will be left at the hotel. The group normally sets off at around 9am the following morning in a private transfer vehicle. For scheduled hiking trips and custom trips, a meeting point will be pre-arranged.   Note special arrival times for Estancia Rides.

What can I expect on one of your trips?

Patagonia is beautiful, wild and unpredictable. Lovers of the outdoors with a keen sense of adventure, experience of travelling in remote areas and a flexible attitude will find the rewards plentiful and memorable.

The trip
All our trips are escorted throughout by a BlueGreen guide. Our camping trips are fully supported with meals being prepared for guests and luggage being carried by pack horses or vehicles (porters for 2 days on the circuit are also included). Our campsites are all chosen for their location and 'crowd' factor. We try and avoid the high traffic areas though this is of course harder with the classic hikes. Clients need to note that campfires are prohibited at sites where fixed fire areas are not available. We are in complete support of this policy. On non-camping trips, we select hotels, refugios and estancias based on their location, service and comfort. We are constantly monitoring these establishments to ensure our standards are met. Where this is not the case, we are prompt to act and will alter our itinerary accordingly.

On camping trips, guests typically set up their own tents. On most of our trips, lunchbox items are laid out at breakfast and clients make up their own lunchbox for the trail.

Our staff
Most of our guides are Chilean and have worked in the area for a number of years. They are experienced, knowledgeable, safety conscious individuals who are passionate about what they do and who are very proud to share their wonderful country with visitors. With groups over a certain size, the guide will have an assistant and with camping groups of 6 and over, there will also be a dedicated cook. For riding trips or trips involving packhorses, they are accompanied by Chilean horsemen (Baqueanos).

Challenges
The roads are mostly unpaved and some are dusty and bumpy. In addition, the distances between sites can be great. Few of the roads in the Park are paved though the road between Punta Arenas and Cerro Castillo is just about finished. The new road between Puerto Natales and the Serrano River is now happily open and this reduces the journey time to that area of the Park considerably.  

The weather can be notoriously unkind - wet, cloudy and closed in (a pain for visibility). It can also be extremely windy. By this I mean grown men can be knocked to the ground. Luckily it doesn't tend to stay wet for too long but clients need to be prepared for the conditions both physically and mentally.

Itineraries need to be flexible. Occasionally they will have to be adjusted due to fitness, availability issues or to maintain the safety of the group. This is especially important when participating on the Patagonian Circuit (due to weather on the pass) or any water based activity. It is also important to note that if rivers are too high to cross, the vehicle or horse may have to take another route!

Clients should be prepared for these challenges if they are to enjoy the fantastic sense of space, wild and untamed scenery and amazing life experiences that a trip of this nature offers. Please feel free to discuss any of your concerns with us at any time.   Please also read suitability notes on each itinerary.

My partner and I can't decide whether to do a scheduled or a custom trip?

As you are travelling as a couple, you could do either. If you see a scheduled trip that you like, our advice would be for you to join it. We get many clients on our group trips who are not accustomed to travelling that way and few have regretted their choice. Travelling in a group offers lots of rewards: new friendships; conversation and laughter with like-minded people; a chance to meet people you wouldn't otherwise cross paths with and so on. And of course it will be cheaper owing to the price reductions for larger groups.

If however you would like a more private experience (Patagonia is a great place to honeymoon) or if you can't find a trip or date that suits you, then you can design your own trip. Please see Custom Trips for more information (two or more clients only).

What is the hiking like? How fit do I need to be? The type of hiking depends on the specific itinerary but our trips are usually moderate to challenging. The only exception is The Circuit. On this trip, a two-day hike over the Pass calls for greater fitness and stamina.

In an attempt to minimize the luggage carried by porters over the pass we have amended the itinerary so clients eat in the refugio at Los Perros and Grey and rent tents at these locations.

I've never kayaked before but would like to do the Blue Ice Trail. Would I be OK?

The kayaking is essentially a downriver float but if there are high winds, clients should expect to work quite hard on the river. No previous experience is necessary for the majority of our kayaking trips (the exception is the six day kayak which calls for greater fitness and some experience). A full safety and instruction briefing is given before boarding. In our opinion, kayaking in the area is suitable for fairly fit, open-minded travellers with a flexible attitude and good sense of humour. They also need to be comfortable around water.   Clients should note that it is not unusual to experience challenging weather conditions in this area and that the itinerary has to be subject to last minute alterations.

I've heard it's very remote. What are the medical facilities like?

Our trips take us into some pristine wilderness areas. Clients should be aware that the Torres del Paine National Park is about a six-hour drive from the nearest hospital with a trauma care facility (Punta Arenas). There is a small hospital in Puerto Natales (three hours) with 24-hour medical assistance that can deal with minor injuries and illnesses. In the rare event of there being an accident, an injured client would have to be taken out of the park (probably on a horse) to join transport for the long drive out. Helicopters are available for emergencies but these cannot fly during high winds. All our leaders carry extensive first aid for dealing with minor injuries. Any client with a medical condition or using medication should discuss this with us before travel.

What are the horses like?

The horses are Criollos and Criollo crosses. Most are between 14.0 and 15.2 hands. They are strong, fit, willing and sure footed. They are also well cared for and in good condition. We are able to provide horses suited to both experienced riders and those who prefer a calmer ride.  The pace of the ride will be adjusted to suit the majority of riders but as we always travel with more than one riding guide, there is a great deal of flexibility and riders soon find their own pace for the trip. Riders are not responsible for grooming or tack. Horses are constantly checked for injury, lameness and tiredness. Where necessary horses will be changed. On the Estancia Ride all clients will experience at least two changes of horses.  Other riders should expect at least one horse change (more on the horse moving ride).

What weather can I expect?

Torres del Paine has a milder and drier microclimate than the surrounding areas because of its unique geological features. The weather however is famously unpredictable and it is possible to experience four seasons in a few hours. Average daily temperatures vary but in summer expect 10 to 20 degrees celsius with the occasional hot day of 25 degrees. Temperatures can drop to zero at night and high winds are common. Although we can never be sure of how Paine will treat its guests, we ask that clients are prepared, both mentally and physically, for unpredictable and sometimes challenging weather conditions and that you pack accordingly (see our Packing List).

What type of people travel on your group trips?

All kinds of people. About half of our clients travel as singles and the remainder as couples of friends. From New Zealand farmers to London city workers our trips appeal to people from all walks of life. United by a love of travel and the outdoors our clients are generally between their early thirties and late fifties. However, we've had some very satisfied clients outside of those ages including Vicky aged 10 from Scotland who thoroughly enjoyed her Christmas Glacier Ride and Bob, aged 74, from the States who was one of our fittest hikers, completing the Towers hike in an almost record time.

What's the average group size on the scheduled trips?

The average group size on our trips is between six and eight clients. We operate our scheduled group trips with a minimum of two and a maximum of 12 clients. However in recognition of the fact that the two person price carries a premium, we are prepared to offer clients the opportunity of moving to another date if the group has failed to grow in numbers and they have concerns with the price.

Custom trips are available for a minimum of two clients however we reserve the right to levy a booking fee of $100 per person to cover the extra administration and booking costs involved with these small, private groups.

I used to ride a bit as a child but haven't ridden much since. Would I be OK?

As a guide, clients joining our scheduled rides should be intermediate - advanced level and be able to control a horse on open ground at the canter. We can however accept less experienced riders on the multi-activity and custom rides. If you have any concerns, please contact us to discuss them. We can provide willing, free-going horses to experienced riders who like a faster pace and also horses that are extremely kind to more novice riders. All riders, but especially the novices, would benefit from getting riding fit before travelling here. A few tough one-hour lessons with lots of trotting shortly before travelling would be a good idea. Some of the riding days are long. Stamina and a positive attitude in about equal measures are helpful.

Is the riding English or Western style?

The riding is Western style with comfortable saddles. The horses respond to neck reining. The tack is Chilean and comprises metal-framed saddles with leather, felt and sheepskin layers. Rope, rawhide and leather form the bridles, girths, straps and so on. The saddles provide adequate comfort for the long days riding and the stirrups consist of a closed leather cup through which the foot cannot pass. Most of the horses are ridden in simple snaffles. Halters are worn throughout the ride with ropes tied around the horse's neck for tethering at lunch and rest stops. To allow the horses to graze during their lunch stops hobbles are sometimes used.

How fast is the riding?

Generally speaking moderate to fast. The pace is largely dictated by the terrain and the distance we need to travel on a certain day but where possible we trot and canter a good deal. We cover between 20 and 40 kilometres a day. This is not a pony trek. Within the obvious confines of safety and experience of the group, there is a lot of freedom on the trails with plenty of opportunities for exciting canters.

Do you have a weight limit for the riding?

Yes, it's around 210lbs (about 96 kilos). This could be a little higher for a very experienced rider.

Do you have an age limit on your trips?

We accept bookings for clients between the ages of 12 and 70 on our scheduled trips.  Please note that these younger travellers must be accompanied by an experienced and capable adult.  All children between the ages of 12 and 17 should have the stamina and attitude to complete a trip of this nature. For those travelling with younger children, please check our Family Itineraries. In addition, we welcome clients over the age of 70 on completion of a medical and suitability questionnaire.

Is it safe to drink the water in the park?

During the trip we use local water supplies from rivers, streams and lakes. This water is clean and pure and is about as close to the source as is possible. We have never had any problems with any client drinking this water (there are no communities in the park to contaminate the water and there are no tropical water-borne diseases such as guiardia). If however a client does not feel confident in drinking this, we would recommend they bring iodine drops (and the taste inhibitors that are sold with them) for their personal supplies, as it is impossible to carry any alternative source of water on the packhorses.

Should I bring a backpack or a duffel bag?

Waterproof stuff-sacks are supplied to each client (capacity 60 litres/3,200 cubic inches). These are sufficient for the demands of the trip. Clients' belongings are packed comfortably, safely and dryly onto the packhorses. Luggage not required for the trip can be stored either at clients' hotels in Punta Arenas or with us in Puerto Natales.

Note on luggage: Please note that whilst we will transport what we consider is a reasonable amount of luggage on pack horses, boats, vehicles etc, we cannot be responsible for extra costs due to clients carrying excessive luggage. Guides will inform clients of any concerns on this matter prior to the start of the trip.

Is there a lot of driving?

On the morning of collection from Punta Arenas the transfer time to Puerto Natales is about three hours. From there to the park it's two to three hours depending on the location. Add an hour if you are visiting the penguin colony. The road is paved until about an hour from the park. All roads in the park are unpaved. There are also short transfers while in the park (see full itineraries for details) but these are generally no longer than around 30 to 45 minutes.

What about tipping?

At the end of the trip it is customary for each client to contribute towards a tip for the baqueanos and any guides who have travelled with us. The normal amount given by each client is between $40 and $60 for the trip although of course it is up to the client to decide on how much they would like to give. This is presented by one of the group to the head baqueano or guide at the end of the trip.   Please see notes under each itinerary for more guidance on amounts suggested for each trip.

Will I have to pay a single supplement?

The price of our group trips is based on two people sharing. Single travellers willing to share will not be charged a single person supplement. Single accommodation in tents and hotels is usually available for clients not wishing to share. The single supplement is listed on each itinerary. Please be aware that even on payment of a single supplement we cannot guarantee single accommodation in refugios and some of the 'home stay' accommodations though we will do our best to secure it. Willing sharers who end up with a single room owing to group makeup will not be charged a single supplement. The exception is those taking part in a custom or private itinerary whereby single supplements are payable by all clients requiring single accommodation.

How do I book my trip and when is payment due?

Contact us by email or by phone to check availability. We will then send you a booking form and our booking conditions. On receipt of a completed and signed booking form and a deposit for $400 we will confirm your place on the trip. The trip balance is due eight weeks prior to departure. Full payment information will be sent out as payments become due. Please refer to our booking conditions for cancellation penalties. Final joining instructions, park map and any travel vouchers will be sent out on receipt of the final balance.

What are the tents like?

We use comfortable three-man tents that are able to withstand the frequent high winds in the area. The maximum occupancy in these tents is two clients so consequently they are quite spacious.

A dining tent is carried for eating meals and cooking although the following campsites offer inside dining in some form or another: Laguna Verde, Rio Serrano, Laguna Azul in addition to anywhere there is a refugio present such as: Dickson, Cuernos, Las Torres, Pehoe, Chileno, Grey etc.

When camping, are showers available every night?

Some of the camping will be true wilderness-style camping with the only washing facilities being in a river or lake. Please refer to full itineraries for more information.

What's a Refugio?

A refugio is a type of mountain cabin that sleeps guests in bunk-style accommodation. They are usually made of wood and were built in the park for minimum environmental impact while ensuring guests had somewhere to sleep in remote areas. Horses or boats usually deliver supplies and they are generator powered between 7am and 11pm. Hot showers are usually available. Meals are served in the convivial dining area and packed lunches can be made up on request. Reservations are necessary during the high season. Most of them also offer camping and it is possible to eat in the refugio while using the campsites. We use a number of them on our trips. Dickson Refugio is a frequent stopover as it serves as a base from which to visit the beautiful Dickson Valley and Glacier. During the season it is very difficult to secure private rooms though this is sometimes possible.

What's the accommodation like in the hotels and hosterias?

In converted estancias and hosterias such as at Estancia Lazo, Hosteria Las Torres, Hosteria el Pionero and Cabanas del Paine the accommodation is comfortable twin share with en suite facilities. On payment of a single supplement, clients on scheduled trips may secure single accommodation where this is available. See notes above. We use both working and converted estancias and the former offer a family stay environment with clean and comfortable facilities. All accommodations are beautifully located and most have amazing views. Cattle and sheep are farmed and horses will be seen in a working environment. Most have en suite bathrooms but in 'home stays' facilities may be shared.

What's the food like?

When camping, meals are varied and wholesome and include fresh salmon and local fish, pasta, chicken, beef, lamb and some local Chilean meals. Fresh salad is served every night. Local wine is served with dinner and all meals are prepared for guests. Packed lunches are prepared by the clients at breakfast and are carried in backpacks or saddlebags. Lunches consist of sandwiches (for example, tuna, cheese, ham, peanut butter, salami), fresh fruit, trail mix, chocolate, biscuits, snacks and so on. Breakfast is normally hot and cold cereals, toast, jams, marmalade, coffee, tea and juice. At times a cooked breakfast is served.

Vegetarians can be well catered for and clients should indicate their requirements at the time of booking. A dining tent is carried for eating meals and cooking although sometimes we choose to eat in a camp shelter or around the campfire (weather permitting). Where possible, vehicle support is arranged. Supplies of bread, salad and fresh fruit are replenished.

A note for vegetarians: Patagonia is a culture largely founded on the farming of sheep. Meat, especially lamb, is a staple for most people in the area. On our trips, it is very likely that clients will get to enjoy a lamb or meat asado (gaucho barbeque) during their stay. Whilst alternative food is available for the non-meat eaters, you should be aware that you may witness meat being prepared. If this is something you would find hard to tolerate, please discuss with us prior to travel.

In hotels, estancias and hosterias meals will be eaten in the restaurant or with the family. Food will consist of lamb, beef, chicken or salmon with fresh vegetables or salad accompanied by rice or potatoes. Wine and beer is available at a reasonable cost throughout the trip. Lunches will be prepared by clients before setting off for the day and these are carried in backpacks or saddlebags. The restaurants in the Refugios offer a lively atmosphere and wholesome food. Vegetarian options are also available. Breakfast includes toast, coffee, cereal, ham or cheese, bread rolls, juice and occasionally eggs.

What should I pack?

Everyone should bring the following:

good four season sleeping bag (camping trips only; provided in refugios).  Usually available to rent: $6 per day.

Thermorest pad (inflatable comfortable and well insulated - camping trips only).  Usually available to rent: $3.00 per day.

T-shirts and long-sleeved tops (cotton polo necks are good for layering)

breathable (wicking) under layer or thermal vest

Underwear and personal items

wool cap or other warm hat

two bandannas or scarves

comfortable footwear for general walking

set of thermals for cold nights

wool sweater or fleece

fleece jacket or waistcoat

sun hat or visor (or cowboy hat such as Australian Akubra - with ties to stop it blowing off)

water bottle (minimum one litre)

camera with plenty of film and spare batteries

waterproof camera bag or bring plastic bags; for example, Ziplocs

flashlight/torch with spare batteries (Maglite or similar)

sunglasses (preferably with a neck string)

sunscreen

lip salve

insect repellent

small towel

personal toiletries (ladies should bring tampons as they are impossible to find in the park)

any personal medication

Hikers should also bring:

walking boots: good quality and well broken in

waterproof and windproof jacket (Gortex or other suitable fabric)

breathable waterproof trousers

Riders should also bring:

two pairs of riding trousers or jeans with chaps

pair of insulating and quick-drying riding gloves

riding helmet: riders who do not wear a helmet do so at their own risk. Some riders wear a pull-over helmet cover to protect against the sun; available from Hatrick Ltd in the UK; +44 (1381) 620 615.

five pairs of socks (including a couple of knee-high pairs for riding)

Jogbra or other suitable support for lady riders

riding boots (well broken in) or ankle-high multi-purpose boots which work well when worn with half chaps and can comfortably be worn for walking too

waterproof and windproof jacket (Gortex or other suitable fabric) with a hood and no leaks. Some clients wear long Australian stock coats.

waterproof trousers (make sure they have an under-foot stirrup to stop them riding up the leg)

Riders should also bring spare plastic bags for storing non-waterproof items such as cameras, binoculars etc in the saddle bags. These are made of tough hessian and will not repel heavy rain.

Spanish phrasebook or dictionary

travel alarm clock

Swiss army knife

herbal teabags

small camping pillow

fleece, silk or cotton sleeping bag inner (recommended if renting a sleeping bag)

Wet Ones or similar travel wipes

tissues

tracksuit trousers or comfortable walking trousers for optional hikes and for relaxing at camp or hotel

reading material

swimsuit (for the hardy)

Lanterns or light sticks when travelling with children