Patagonia

 Day 01: Discover the breathtaking allure of Chilean Patagonia! Vast plains merge seamlessly with rugged coastlines and towering peaks, creating a mesmerizing landscape at the edge of the icy southern Pacific Ocean. Arriving early? Let’s discuss exciting activities for your first day! Later, join your trip leader for a delectable introduction to Patagonian cuisine at a local restaurant.

 Day 02: Today, weather permitting, we’ll embark on a cruise across the Magellan Strait to Magdalena Island, home to the largest penguin colony in Southern Chile. If the strait is impassable, we’ll visit the Cueva del Milodón instead. After breakfast, we’ll journey through the scenic Patagonian lowlands to the cave system, where we’ll explore three caves, including the lair of the ancient mylodon. Don’t forget to snap a photo next to the life-size replica of this fascinating creature at the cave entrance! We’ll also visit the interpretation center nearby before returning to Puerto Natales for dinner.

 Day 03 – 07:

Option – A: Embark on the iconic ‘W’ trek in Torres del Paine National Park. Traverse through awe-inspiring landscapes of towering granite peaks, serene glacial lakes, and lush forests. Witness the majestic Torres del Paine, soaring above rugged terrain. Overnight stays in cozy refugios offer comfort after exhilarating hikes. Shorter route alternatives are available.

Explore Los Cuernos on an easier trek, marveling at its striking formations against the backdrop of Lake Nordenskjold. Capture stunning photos amidst turquoise waters and dramatic mountains. Accommodation awaits at Refugio Los Cuernos.

Ascend French Valley for a closer encounter with glaciers and the imposing Paine Massif. Enjoy panoramic views of the awe-inspiring natural amphitheater. Conclude the day at Refugio Paine Grande.

Experience Grey Glacier’s grandeur with a hike and a unique kayaking adventure on Lake Grey. Witness the towering ice walls and navigate among icebergs. Spend the night at Refugio Grey.

Hike to a scenic lookout over Grey Glacier before embarking on a cruise across Lake Grey. Opt for the ‘Touching the Ice’ experience for an up-close encounter with the glacier face. Return to Puerto Natales for a well-deserved rest and celebration.

Enjoy varied hiking distances and elevation gains, ensuring a memorable adventure in Patagonia.

Option – B: Embark on a captivating journey at Azul Lagoon as we kick off our Torres Del Paine exploration, unveiling breathtaking landscapes over the next four days. Today, we’ll meander around the lagoon, marveling at the Torres del Paine towers in the distance. After a delightful lunch, we’ll venture deeper into the park, soaking in vistas of Lake Nordenskjold and Lake Pehoe before settling in at Kau Rio Serrano Refugio.

Delight in a hearty breakfast before setting out for an unforgettable hike to the French Valley. Admire the majestic Los Cuernos and the awe-inspiring French Glacier, making memories against the backdrop of nature’s grandeur. After a fulfilling day, return to the Refugio for a relaxing evening.

Today, savor the tranquility of your surroundings. Opt for a morning hike or simply unwind by the river. For a unique experience, join our kayak excursion on Lake Grey (additional fee), paddling amidst icebergs and panoramic mountain views. Later, embark on an afternoon hike to catch sight of Grey and Tyndall glaciers before returning to the lodge for dinner.

Embark on an adventure to Los Condores and Los Cuernos after breakfast. Marvel at the panoramic views from Mirador Condor and Mirador Cuernos, capturing the essence of Torres del Paine’s beauty. En route, witness the splendor of Salto Grande waterfall, a true natural wonder. Conclude the day with a sumptuous dinner at Nash Refugio.

On the final leg of our journey, hike to Ferrier for stunning views of Grey Glacier before a scenic cruise across Lake Grey. Take in the mountain vistas before returning to Puerto Natales, where our unforgettable expedition began, for a well-deserved rest.

(Note: Hiking distances, elevation gains, and losses remain the same as provided in the original text.)

 Day 08: Welcome to Argentina! Today, we embark on a journey to the heartland of Tango, the legacy of Evita Peron, and the spirit of Diego Maradona. Our adventure leads us northward to El Calafate and the majestic expanse of Los Glaciares National Park, a treasure trove of natural wonders in South America. Amidst the grandeur of towering mountains and glaciers, the park unfolds with a rich tapestry of landscapes – from guindo and lenga forests to ñirre scrublands, interspersed with shimmering lakes and meandering rivers.

Upon arrival in El Calafate, the afternoon invites you to unwind along the tranquil shores of Lago Argentino, the continent’s third-largest lake spanning over 1,600 square kilometers. Here, amidst breathtaking scenery, you can leisurely explore or embark on invigorating hikes. A highlight awaits at Laguna Nimes, a renowned sanctuary for diverse bird species including geese, ducks, and flamingos.

Tonight, dinner offers an opportunity for culinary exploration or an early meal, though you’re welcome to join your guide if you wish.

Please note: The 8-day trip concludes today in Puerto Natales. Should you require a transfer back to Punta Arenas, arrangements can be made at an additional cost.

 Day 09: Prepare to be awe-inspired today as we embark on a journey to witness the majestic Perito Moreno Glacier up close in Argentina. Guided by a local expert, we’ll marvel as colossal blocks of ice break away from the glacier’s towering face, plunging into the serene waters of Lago Argentino. This glacier, a vital part of the world’s third-largest freshwater reserve, acts as a natural barrier, creating a striking contrast between the lake’s two shores. Experience the mesmerizing spectacle of nature as the water level on the southern side can surge up to 30 meters above the main lake’s surface, showcasing the glacier’s immense power.

 Day 10: This morning, our journey leads us to El Chalten, a quaint mountain village tucked away in remoteness. Renowned for its unparalleled hiking and mountaineering prospects right at your doorstep, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. From here, marvel at the majestic peaks of Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre, while the Rio de las Vueltas gracefully winds its way through town. Our trek takes us through Patagonian drylands and striking boulder fields to Mirador Laguna Torre, offering breathtaking vistas up the Fitz Roy valley to Cerro Torre, a magnificent granite pinnacle towering over vast expanses of ice. Today promises a laid-back experience, preparing us for tomorrow’s adventure deep into the heart of Los Glaciares National Park. Hiking Distance: 6 kilometers (3.7 miles), 1-3 hours. Elevation Gain/Loss: 200 meters (656 feet).

 Day 11: Today’s adventure takes us on a brief journey to embark on a breathtaking hike towards Campamento Poincenot. Standing at the foot of the towering Monte Fitz Roy, the scenery is simply awe-inspiring. Whether you choose to linger here and soak in the majestic views or push onward to Laguna de Los Tres with its steep ascent, the beauty only intensifies. Upon reaching the summit, you’ll be greeted by a captivating panorama of Monte Fitz Roy overlooking a glacial lake. It’s a day filled with unforgettable vistas, regardless of how far you venture! Hiking Stats: Distance – 22.8 kilometers (14.2 miles), Duration – 7-9 hours (flexible) Elevation Gain/Loss: 800 meters (2,624 feet)

 Day 12: Today’s adventure begins with a northern journey from El Chalten to Laguna del Desierto. We’ll kick things off with a refreshing hike to a lookout point by the lagoon, offering another glimpse of Fitz Roy. Then, we’ll gear up for an exhilarating bike ride back to El Chalten along a scenic unpaved route, tracing the River de las Vueltas and passing stunning waterfalls. After a rejuvenating lunch at Los Huemules Reserve, we’ll lace up our hiking boots once more for an afternoon trek to the captivating Blue & Green Lagoons. Here are the details of our journey:

• Hiking Distance to Laguna del Desierto: 1 kilometer (0.6 miles), 0.5 hours, Elevation Gain/Loss: 30 meters (90 feet)
• Hiking Distance to Blue & Green Lagoons: 5 kilometers (3 miles), 2 hours, Elevation Gain/Loss: 200 meters (656 feet)
• Biking Distance back to El Chalten: 25.7 kilometers (16 miles), 2-3 hours, mostly flat terrain.

 Day 13: Experience the awe-inspiring grandeur of Southern Patagonia’s towering peaks on today’s adventure. Our journey commences at dawn along the Loma del Pliegue trail, ascending 900 meters to the summit of a majestic hill. Traverse through the enchanting Patagonian beech forest before reaching the expansive plateau, offering breathtaking vistas. At the apex, marvel at the majestic Monte Fitz Roy towering above the Torre Glacier and Laguna Torre—an unparalleled spectacle. Don’t forget your wide-angle lens to capture this panoramic view! After descending back to El Chalten, we’ll continue to El Calafate, Hiking Distance: 22.4 kilometers (14 miles), 7-9 hours (flexible) Elevation Gain/Loss: 915 meters (3,000 feet)

 Day 14: As your ‘Condor’ journey concludes, you depart with memories of kayaking, biking, and hiking through one of Earth’s most breathtaking alpine landscapes. If you’re flying out today, your trip leader will organize transportation to El Calafate airport, or if you’re extending your stay, we can assist with additional hotel bookings. Enjoy breakfast before your departure.