Itinerary
Day 1 Late morning collection from airport or hotel. Drive to see the cute burrowing Magellanic Penguins at their colony in Otway Sound. There will be plenty of time to observe and photograph these fascinating creatures before continuing on across the Patagonian Steppe where you will have your first opportunity to see some of the unusual plant and animal life that exists in this area. After a short stop in Puerto Natales, the capital of the Ultima Esperanza region of southern Chile, we will transfer to Cerro Castillo and the extremely comfortable Hosteria El Pionero. Converted from a villa built by settlers to Tierra del Fuego at the beginning of the century, this was once home to one of the most important and influential estancieros (or local farmers) in the region. It offers comfortable accommodation and an excellent restaurant offering a variety of typical local foods and international cuisine. The fireside bar is an excellent place to enjoy a pisco sour whilst your guide gives a briefing and answers any questions about the days ahead. Comfortable ensuite accommodation. D
Day 2 After breakfast, we will continue on towards the towering peaks of the Torres del Paine National Park. Our route will take us around the shores of Lake Sarmiento with the towering peaks of the Paine Horns to our right. We begin our introductory trek along the shores of Laguna Verde through ancient southern beech forests towards the Sierra del Toro. After a few hours of hiking we will ascend to the fabulous Mirador del Toro to enjoy the spectacular views of the peaks of Paine and the lakes and waterways that flow through the pampas below. After stopping to take some photographs and enjoy the marvelous view we will start our steep descent of the Sierra del Toro. Lunch will be taken in the valley before a visit to the Park HQ and the Visitor's Center where we will see the park maps and history. From here we will be collected in our vehicle and driven a short distance to our lodge on the peaceful Serrano River. Our home for 2 nights this cozy lodge is set away from the mountains giving a full view of the entire Paine Massif across the river. Great opportunities for fishing, walks or horseback riding here make this the perfect two-night stop. Dinner in the cozy restaurant with fabulous views of the Paine Horns. For the early risers amongst us, this area is said to offer the most spectacular sunrises in Patagonia! B,L,D
Day 3 After breakfast, we will transfer across the pampas for the short walk to the amazing Lago Grey Beach. We will walk along the shores of these grey waters and admire the miracles of nature as seemingly turquoise icebergs are seen floating in the lake. The huge mass of white behind the icebergs is Grey Glacier, the largest in the park. After our walk we will board the new Grey 2 launch and set off into the iceberg choked lake towards the walls of this spectacular Glacier. The short boat trip will give us up close and personal views of this spectacle as well as stunning views of Paine Grande and surrounding mountains. After our return to the dock those still with energy can opt for a trek up to a stunning viewpoint of the entire western side of the park with your guide or to take our van back to the Serrano river lodge. Those returning to the river can enjoy a leisurely afternoon walking around the hills here enjoying the fantastic afternoon sunlight or optional fishing or horseback riding can be arranged with the lodge. B,L,D
Day 4 Today we will rise early, pack our lunches, and prepare for our 'up and over' route across the heart of the park. This is a beautiful walk that sees very few hikers. We will trek through verdant green valleys and southern beech forests passing turquoise lakes and crossing hills dotted with eerie windswept trees. With luck we will see magnificent condors hovering high above mountain peaks whilst down on the plains, herds of guanaco scatter as we approach. The route today crosses amazing scenery dominated by the French Valley, Paine Horns and eventually the Towers after which the park is named. As the trail is so long we will hop in the van for the last section taking us to the beautifully situated and comfortable Estancia Tercera Barranca (45 minutes). Situated on the eastern perimeters of the Park this authentic estancia property has some of the most spectacular views in the Park. Country-style accommodation in pretty guest house with all the comforts of home. B,L,D
Day 5 Today after breakfast and a short drive (45 minutes), we will begin our most challenging trek to the base of the Towers themselves. A steep climb crossing mountain trails, rivers and valleys and finally a clamber up glacial moraine, the rewards today are truly spectacular. Lunch (for those who make it to the top) can be enjoyed in the shadow of these enormous granite peaks whilst watching the icebergs drift across a glacial pool of water. A memorable lunch spot and a highlight of every visitor's itinerary. Tonight were back at the comfy estancia where a roaring fire, hot bath and home cooked Chilean food awaits us. B,L,D
Day 6 After a breakfast of home-baked bread, preserves and cake we will be transferring out of the park and back to the airport in Punta Arenas in time for afternoon flights. Time permitting we will once again make a short stop in Puerto Natales and this will give clients an opportunity to purchase any souvenirs/books/postcards etc.