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Itinerary
Day 1
Punta Arenas to Torres del Paine National Park
Land in Punta Arenas, Chile and begin your Patagonian adventure. Set against the hills lining the Magellan Strait, Punta Arenas and its stately mansions amidst urban sprawl serves as an ideal introduction to Chilean hospitality. Meet your guides and your group at the Punta Arenas airport before you begin your journey to Torres del Paine National Park.
We pause our trip through some of South America’s most incredible landscapes for lunch and a tour of Cueva del Milodón. Cueva del Milodón, a national monument, was discovered in 1895 along with its collection of ancient artifacts and the remains of a giant Mylodon, or sloth. Step into the world of 10,000 BC before we continue on our way to Torres del Paine National Park.
The park greets you with its three granite monoliths for which it was named as we travel to EcoCamp Patagonia, tucked away into the Patagonian steppe. A welcoming reception with a delicious dinner and cocktail await you. Spend the evening taking in your striking surroundings before settling into your geodesic domes for the night. The dome’s wide windows let you fall asleep surrounded by the park’s views.
Day 2
Pehoé Lake Catamaran and Valle Francés Hike
Wake up to coffee and a warm breakfast before setting off on your first day in the park. Our day’s adventure begins with a catamaran ride across Lake Pehoé.
Dock and hit the trail with a rugged hike through Valle Francés (French Valley). Lined with coihue and notro trees, the scenic trail takes you to a suspension bridge where we stop to enjoy the tumbling rush of the French River and the frosty beauty of Glacier Francés’ granite spires. Once we cross the bridge, the trail leads to the stony slopes of Valle Francés strewn with lenga trees.
We go as far into Valle Francés as our groups’ pace allows, possibly reaching the Valle Francés viewpoint. Relax with a picnic at our stopping point before taking some time to explore the area and take in the scenery.
Our return descent takes us through shady forests and spare stretches of pampas. Meet our catamaran on Lake Pehoé for a return trip, after which we’re driven back to EcoCamp Patagonia. Another night of fine dining and incredible views awaits you.
• Activity: Nature Hike
• Hiking Distance: 13mi/ 21km
• Estimated Hiking Time: 8 hours
• Maximum Altitude Point: >660ft/ >200m
• Overall Activity Time: 8am Start/ 8pm Finish
Note: Day 2 Valley Frances activity may be influenced by weather. In the occasion that the catamaran ride is cancelled due to inclement weather, an optional hike to Mirador Britanico is available.
Additional Activity Options:
*During the shoulder season of April and May, September and October, the catamaran service isn’t available. During these times, we offer an alternative activity: Lazo Weber Excursion.
Weber Bridge Adventure Details:
Set off from EcoCamp after breakfast and enter Torres del Paine National Park by the Laguna Verde keeper post. From there, begin the 12km Lazo Weber hike. The relaxed trail runs by numerous lakes and keeps glaciated peaks in the skyline. We pause at Laguna Honda, where we might spot caranchos and condors, guanacos and foxes.
We continue on from Laguna Honda to the El Toro Lookout. From this lofty viewpoint, the towering Paine Massive, sinuous mountain rivers, and glacial lakes such as Serrano, Lagos Toro, Grey, and Paine can be seen. Our hike takes us downhill toward the Paine River, where we can explore the shores before our ride picks us for our return to EcoCamp Patagonia.
• From November 1st-15th: Hiking trails are restricted to Camp Italiano.
• From November 16th-March 15th: Activity operates as planned.
• From March 16th-31st: Hiking trails are restricted to Camp Italiano.
Day 3
Grey Glacier Kayak and Sail
Wake up to coffee and a warm breakfast at camp before heading off on a scenic drive to Lake Grey. Once there, hop onto the boat and sail across Lake Grey with its glowing blue icebergs. In the distance, Paine Massif rears up over the glacier and the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. Our cruise takes us to the foot of Glacier Grey, where calving ice cracks and falls into the water.
Here, we trade in the boat for kayaks for a paddle toward the glacier’s eastern flank. Paddle through placid waters sprinkled with luminescent icebergs—Patagonia’s frozen world laid before you.
After our paddle, you’re picked up by our boat and transported back to EcoCamp Patagonia. Sip on a cocktail, soak in the sunset, and sleep well after the full day.
• Activity: Boat Cruise and Kayak
• Paddling Distance:
• Overall Activity Time: 9am Start/ 5pm Finish
Note: During boat season, the cruise to Glacier Grey may be cancelled if the 8-passenger minimum is not met. In such cases, we have contingency activities that also take you to new sites in the park.
Day 4
Las Torres and Towers Base Hike
Take to the trails today and set off on one of the park’s most jaw-dropping hikes. Ascend through Ascencio Valley toward the Tower’s rugged eastern face, course along winding ridges, and pass by rumbling mountain rivers until you reach the moraine.
The moraine’s climbing collection of fallen stones makes for a challenging but rewarding hike as it leads to the base of Las Torres. Gaze up at the Towers’ three iconic peaks, reaching over 9,4000 feet into the sky—a striking pinnacle to the surrounding cirque.
Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by sweeping vistas before setting off on our return hike. After hiking the steppe and clambering up a moraine, relaxing with a cocktail and a freshly prepared meal at EcoCamp Patagonia makes for the perfect end of the day.
• Activity: Challenging Hike
• Hiking Distance: 14mi/ 22km
• Estimated Hiking Time: 9 hours
• Maximum Altitude Point: 3000ft/ 914m
• Overall Activity Time: 8am Start/ 5pm Finish
Day 5
Serrano River Kayak
We pack up camp this morning and drive through Torres del Paine’s southwest region to Serrano Camp. There, you’re prepared and equipped for the next leg of your Patagonian adventure: a kayak down the Serrano River.
Paddle down the Serrano River as it winds its way through the park, bounded by stunning vistas. Portage to avoid the crashing Serrano Falls and continue the paddle through a lush mountain pass carpeted with lenga.
Our day’s paddle comes to an end and we set up camp at the mouth of Tyndall River. Enjoy a night around the campfire surrounded by steppe.
• Activity: Kayak
• Paddling Distance:
• Overall Activity Time: 9am Start/ 5pm Finish
Day 6
Serrano River Kayak
We have a quiet morning at camp before setting off on the next leg of our Serrano River kayak. Vivid colors and the serpentine waters take you past Tyndall Glacier, also known as Geike Glacier, which dominates the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. We stop for lunch at Estancia Pekin Guerrero before continuing on.
Our paddle continues through Patagonian fjords until we reach the glaciated Mount Balmaceda. There, we disembark and make our way to a cozy mountain lodge. Finish off the day with a warm dinner and drink before turning in.
• Activity: Kayak
• Paddling Distance:
• Overall Activity Time: 9am Start/ 5pm Finish
Day 7
Balmaceda Glacier Kayak and Arrive Puerto Natales
After a hearty breakfast, we reconnect with our kayaks and begin our paddle to Balmaceda Glacier and the surrounding Bernardo O’Higgins National Park. Balmaceda Glacier, topping off at over 2,000m, makes for an impressive sight from your kayak. You also have the unique opportunity to look for calving ice falling from Balmaceda Glacier into Ultima Esperanza Fjord (Last Hope Fjord). The site can only be visited from the water, and the rare sight is equally unrivaled.
Our kayak concludes at the O’Higgins National Parkdock, where you’re met by a catamaran which sails you to Puerto Natales. The cruise offers different views of Last Hope Fjord and more opportunities to spot Patagonian fauna and marine life.
At Puerto Natales, a driver takes you to your evening’s accommodations, and you say farewell to Torres del Paine National Park. Enjoy one last night and dinner on your own.
• Activity: Catamaran Cruise and Kayak
• Paddling Distance:
• Overall Activity Time: 9am Start/ 5pm Finish
Day 8
Return to Punta Arenas
Wake up and enjoy a hearty breakfast before making your way to the local bus station. You'll travel as a group back to Punta Arenas Airport for your return flight home.
Dates & Rates
Supplementary Information
Tier Pricing:
- 4-5 Guests: $5,349
- 6-10 Guests: $5,049
- 11-12 Guests: $4,849
Single Supplement:
- $1,500
*Above prices in USD.
Private Departures: Patagonia Unbound Signature Tour can be booked any day on a private departure, please contact us for more information.
Included:
- All activities as indicated on your itinerary
- All meals as indicated on your itinerary
- 2 glasses of wine or a soft drink per meal
- Tea and coffee served at the bar all day long
- Transfer from Punta Arenas Airport to EcoCamp upon arrival
- All accommodations as indicated on your itinerary
- Services of professional guides
- All necessary kayaking and camping equipment
Not Included:
- Airfare to and from Chile
- Gratuities for guides
- Insurance (Medical and Evacuation Coverage is mandatory)
- Items of a personal nature
- Drinks (anything beyond the 2 provided each meal) and souvenirs
- Tour Extensions
TIERED PRICING EXPLAINED: Our trips are budgeted for full or near full sign-ups which enables us to offer trips at the lowest possible price. Because of numerous fixed costs, it is more expensive to operate a trip for a small group. Therefore, on some of our trips, we have a “tier-pricing” system to avoid canceling a trip with a low number of sign ups. We have found that most people also prefer this alternative to having a trip cancelled. We may initially invoice you at the higher tier price, and refund the difference depending on the final group size. Trip costs quoted are based on foreign exchange rates current at the time of this printing. We reserve the right to raise the trip fee if there are exceptional cost increases beyond our control.
ITINERARY: We will do our best to adhere to the itineraries and trip descriptions listed on our website. However, tour itineraries or sub contractors (such as taxi, cruise boats or hotels) may change slightly due to reasons beyond our control including but not limited to Acts of God, wind, waves, inclement weather or other. We always welcome you to call us to clarify any item - often this is the best way to fully clarify expectations - call us collect or on our toll-free number. You will be sent pre-trip email with latest details within a month of your tour - it is your responsibility to check in with us prior to your trip to see if you have all the information you need. We will always do our best to provide you with the best possible tour and to fully meet your expectations to the best of our ability.
FAQ & More
What are the accommodations like?
For this tour we will use the Suite Domes at EcoCamp. These geodesic domes are roughly 300 sq ft in size and offer comfortable double or twin beds, modern low-emission wood stove, private bathroom with gas heater and state of the art composting toilet. Fall asleep each night gazing at the starlit skies through the dome windows and enjoy stunning views of Torres from the comforts of your very own private terrace. There are 10 Suite Domes located within EcoCamp. In addition to your private Suite Dome, EcoCamp has 3 Community Domes where you can relax with other guests, enjoy your meals, or grab an evening cocktail!
Suite Domes Include:
Spacious 28m² / 300ft² area
Open terrace to read, relax and admire the view
Enclosed porch to hang wet clothing
Comfortable King-size or twin beds
Low-emission wood stove
Patagonian decoration
Propane heater in bathroom
Private fully-equipped bathroom
State of the art composting toilet
What are the Community Domes like?
The Community Domes are the center of EcoCamp’s social activity and will also serve as the meeting place each day prior to your departure from camp. EcoCamp offers 3 community domes housing the bar, library, dining room, and lounging. These common spaces are available for use throughout your stay and connected to your sleeping quarters by raised wooden walkways.
What sustainable efforts can I expect to see at EcoCamp?
• Solar & hydro energy providing 100% of EcoCamp’s electricity
• Policy of carbon reduction & CO2 offsetting
• Low impact design with minimal excavation & terrain disruption
• High tech composting devices in all bathrooms
• Efficient dome design to provide thermal insulation & wind protection
• Raised wooden walkways not disturbing flora & fauna
• Ecologically verified suppliers
• Careful recycling and reusing of materials
• Policy of carbon reduction & CO2 offsetting
• Buying and supplying locally
How do I get to Punta Arenas?
You will want to book a flight to Presidente Carlos Ibáñez International Airport (PUQ), the airport serving the city of Punta Arenas in southern Chile in the Patagonia region of South America. LATAM Airlines and American Airlines are the two biggest Airlines offering flights to Punta Arenas.
Once you arrive at Punta Arenas Airport, we will pick you up for the scenic transfer to EcoCamp
Can you help with booking my International Flights?
Unfortunately, we are not authorized to book air travel for our guests. We would be happy to recommend you to a trusted flight broker that we work with on many of our international tours.
What are the meals like?
We consider quality cuisine to be an integral part to a successful trip! At EcoCamp we put great effort into developing and offering a menu of fresh healthy meals using locally sourced ingredients. The menu has been designed fusing Chilean, Altiplanic, Patagonian, and international foods. Typical meals might include: Chilean pot roast, lamb stew with provencal potatoes, seafood lasagna with prawns, spider crab and octopus, pumpkin ravioli, beef tenderloin or Gnocchi with a Bolognese sauce.
We will start each day with a hearty breakfast buffet, providing you with plenty of fuel for our busy outings! Following breakfast you will be directed to a different buffet table to select the contents for your boxed lunch. Lunch ingredients are changed each day to offer a fresh variety throughout the trip. Each evening will start with cocktails and appetizers, followed by a 3 course meal.
All of the meals are served in the Community Domes family style, allowing you to meet and interact with other guests visiting EcoCamp.
Can you accommodate special dietary requests?
We are happy to accommodate vegetarians, gluten free and other special diets. Advance notice is most helpful and important due to the remote nature of camp. In addition, a daily vegetarian option will be provided on the menu.
How physically demanding is this trip?
We would describe this itinerary as being moderately physically demanding. As such, we would highly suggest having performed the featured activities previously to build a base level of endurance for both hiking and kayaking. You should be in good physical condition, with adequate muscular strength and cardiovascular endurance, to enjoy this trip. Please refer to the itinerary for activity descriptions and distances. If you are unsure if this itinerary if right for you, please call one of our Adventure Consultants, we would be happy to discuss this with you in further detail.
What if unpredictable weather affects my trip?
Our tours are purposely planned to avoid the times of year that weather can be less favorable. That being said, weather can often be unpredictable and fast changing in Patagonia. Your trip leader will be constantly monitoring the weather and will make any needed adjustments to your itinerary. We always have back up activities planned in the event that weather precludes us from doing the planned activity; however the best way to manage the unpredictable weather of Patagonia is to travel with a flexible attitude and open mindset!
Who will my guides be?
Your guides will be Patagonian locals with an intimate knowledge of and experience in this pristine region. Many of our guides are recent graduates of Ecotourism programs and have extensive experience hiking and wildlife watching throughout Chile. They love to share their local culture and landscape with our guests.
Are private tours an option?
Absolutely! We would be happy to help you organize a private departure for groups of 2 or more people. Please contact us for additional details and rates.
What time should I arrive to Punta Arenas? When should I plan to depart from Puerto Natales?
On the first day, it is best to arrive before 3:30 PM. On your final day, you'll want to make arrangements to depart after 3:30 PM.