Criollo Expeditions
Patagonia Chile
Exciting, unique and unforgettable adventures
at the ends of the Earth!
You won't miss anything on this extreme adventure expedition! We will begin our hike from approximately 5,000 feet above sea level, slowing climbing over rolling hills to reach a lookout on the top of Tetas las Chinas at approximately 6,500feet. From the top of these twin, pointed peaks, enjoy an awe inspiring view of the entire Torres del Paine National Park, and the W Circuit that we just completed. To the North you will see the tip of the Southern Ice Field, and to the South, the vast expanse of flat, earth toned pampas that stretch far into Argentina. On our hike back down the valley, try to spot one of the large rainbow trout that inhabit the icy subterranean streams which cut through the hills. Also, keep a look out for a variety of endemic bird species, which thrive in the seclusion of the Sierra Baguales. Accommodation in the casa de patrón at Estancia Cerro Guido, a 200,000 hectare sheep, cattle and alfalfa holding. -Hiking Tetas las Chinas (6 hours to the summit, ~8 miles, 1,500 feet elevation gain/loss) -Transfer Laguna Amarga-Baguales-Las Torres After hiking down from the French Valley, we will continue our path, winding under the impressive As we hike through the sometimes thick underbrush and forests along Lake Nordenskjold, listen for the Magallanic Woodpecker, a delightful and rare little bird with a fire engine red plume sticking erect from the crown of its head. Also, you will hear the echoing boom of glaciers calving off into the French Valley at your back. -Hike up French Valley (3 hours roundtrip including lunch break, 5 miles, and 1,600feet elevation gain/loss
Horseback Riding, Hiking, Sea Kayaking, Penguin Viewing
Horse ride through pristine wilderness, hike below massive granite structures, sea kayak a wide, winding river to the base of aquamarine glaciers, visit the humback whale colonies in the Straight of Magellan, tell stories around the campfire and sip pisco in four star hotels...
Experience the best of Patagonia, from the best campsites in wild, untouched areas, to the best hotels that Torres del Paine has to offer.
We've selected the most exciting adventure activities for this exclusive 16 day itinerary, to bring our guests the true taste of Patagonia. From the whipping wind, to bubbling hot tubs you are sure to enjoy every moment of this extreme multi-activity expedition!
Day 1: Airport pick-up and transfer to Hotel Weskar,
Puerto Natales (www.weskar.cl)
A private van will meet you at the airport, upon your arrival to Punta Arenas. You will then begin the three hour transfer to Puerto Natales. Rest, and enjoy the drive across the wind swept plains, just above the Straight of Magellan. Horses and ranches dot the vast landscape, as well as clusters of eery Nothofagus trees that curl and twist from the force of the wind.
Once we reach Puerto Natales, you will be checked in to your accomodation and will have time to rest before meeting with the guide for dinner and a trip briefing.
Before dinner, you may want to wander around Puerto Natales to find any last minute necessities, as the town provides all amenities (bank, internet, call centers, pharmacies etc...).
Day 2: 0830, Meet guide at hotel in Puerto Natales, transfer to Estancia Crossing, via Cerro Castillo,
Horse ride into Estancia Mirador del Payne, Accommodation Hosteria Mirador del Payne
(www.miradordelpayne.com)
After organizing your bags for each section of your trip, you will want to dress in riding clothes before meeting the guide in the hotel lobby, to begin a 1.5 hour drive to Cerro Castillo. Cerro Castillo is a small outpost and border crossing, where we will make a brief stop before continuing to the entrance of Estancia Mirador del Payne (locally known as Lazo)
Estancia Lazo is an 8,000 hectare (16,000 acre) working ranch, nestled on the banks of Green Lagoon, below the looming mountains of the Torres del Paine.
Your baqueano and horses will be waiting at the gates of Lazo, where you will load personal items into the saddle bags and will have a few minutes to get to know your horse, before setting off.
As you ride across the Patagonian steppe you will enjoy the dynamic views of the Torres del Paine National Park set above the turquoise waters of Sarmiento Lake.
A picnic lunch will be taken at a waterfall, halfway through the days ride. Continueing on, you will begin to enter the quiet forests of the Estancia where you may catch a glimpse of the Magellanic Woodpecker.
When we arrive at the estancia, you will instantly fall in love with its´charming architecture and red tin roofs, not to mention the incredible view.
After caring for the horses and checking in to your room, you lwill be offered the first of many pisco sours, Chile´s national drink.
Hours in the Saddle: 5
Day 3: Ride to Bull Lake Lookout, above Torres del Paine
Accommodation Hosteria Mirador del Payne
After a buffet style breakfast in the cozy estancia dining room, we will waste no time in getting ready to ride. First pack the saddle bags with your personal belongings and the picnic lunch, then follow your gaucho guide, up the hillside of Bull Mountain towards the incredible lookout point, riding first along the edge of Green Lagoon, before entering thick forests.
You will cross cross several fresh water mountain streams while riding through the knee-high grasses before emerging at the foot of the spectacular Torres del Paine. We will ride beneath its towering heights as we begin another ascent to an incredible lookout from which you may see the turquoise, emerald and milky blue glacier lakes that were carved out centuries ago by massive glaciers. From here you may see rivers that curve serpent-like at the base of the mountains, connecting lakes and eventually flowing down to Last Hope Sound. Search the open skies for the enormous condor as it glides noiselessly through the air.
We will have lunch at the lookout, before continuing the rest of the ride, crossing between rolling hills and hidden ponds as we circle around Laguna Verde and head back towards the lovely estancia.
Once we arrive, enjoy a relaxing stroll on the black sand beach or sip your beverage of choice and marvel at the view from the comfort of the front porch before meeting in the dining room for a delicious evening meal.
Time in the Saddle: 5 Hours
Day 4: 0730 Breakfast, Ride from Estancia Mirador del Payne to Estancia Laguna Amarga, Dinner and Accomodation Refugio Laguna Amarga
(www.refugiolagunaamarga.cl)
After an energizing breakfast in the hostería, you will prepare for another day of riding. Today, the pace will be much faster (if you choose and depending on the group) as you say goodbye to Laguna Verde and begin the 6 hour ride to Estancia Laguna Amarga.
Passing once again through the forests of Green Lagoon, you will arrive at the banks of Lago Sarmiento. This is the deepest lake in the Torres del Paine National Park, and as it unfolds before us, you will notice its clear turquoise waters are surronded by a bank of hard white calcuim carbonate, that extends to form small beaches. Puma scat and prints have been spotted frequently in this area and we may even catch a glimpse of the elusive animal. In the distance you will see the unmistakable Torres (Towers) of granite reaching high into the sky, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. You will follow the white banks of Sarmiento for approximately two hours before arriving at a puesto nestled at the edge of the lake. Maybe if the puestero is home, you will be invited inside for a mate tea, before setting out the picnic lunch.
After lunch the pace will pick up, with several long trots and canters, as you cross flat pampas, feeling the freedom and joy of horseback riding across country. Finally we will come to the crest of a small hill from which we may look down upon Laguna Amarga (Bitter Lagoon). This lagoon is especially striking as it is the only saltwater lake in the area, causing the salt to build up on the black sand beaches, giving the impression of eternal winter. It is also frequented by flocks of flamingo that group together like pink clusters of satin on the surface of the water. If it is a cloudless, calm moment, you may be lucky and see the perfect reflection of the Towers, hovering eternally in the backdrop. You will feel the wind rushing around your face while enjoying one last gallop along the beaches of Laguna Amarga, on our way to the estancia´s guesthouses.
After settling into your quaint, cozy room, you may choose to take a short walk to the banks of the Paine River, or perhaps even to Paine Falls, a short distance from the Hotel.
*Optional hotel upgrade, to Hostería Las Torres
Hours in the Saddle: 5
Day 5: Full Day Ride on Estancia Laguna Amarga
Today you may have a relaxed morning, enjoying the freshly made bread and rhubarb jam in the estancia dining room, before saddling up for the last day of riding.
Estancia Laguna Amarga makes up 16,000 acres of beautiful pampas and mountains, boasting the best views of the three granite Towers, in Torres del Paine. Because of the low human interference on this estancia, patagonian fauna is abundant, with guanaco´s (llama like mammals) numbering in the thousands! You may also have the opportunity to see condor, puma, ñandu or large ñandu nests, armadillos, swans and flamingos among many other wildland creatures.
The ride begins by climbing a short hillside, overlooking the winding Rio Paine, Lago Nordenschold and Grey Glacier. On top of the hillside is a common place for riders to encounter immense condor, circling slowly in the breeze. Winds can get quite high in this area, so be prepared, by covering your ears and hands with a hat and gloves.
You will then continue towards a high mountain lake, called Laguna Goic, tucked down between rolling hillside. Here, you will have a picnic lunch, before visiting barely discernable pictographs from centuries ago, found in a small nearby cave. Depending on the energy level of the group, you may continue riding, enjoying a surprising gallop through a lush green valley, or you may begin the descent towards Bitter Lagoon.
You will spend one more evening in Estancia Laguna Amarga, marveling in the spectacular views from the dining room, and perhaps delighting in the cooks´ famous hand made pastas!
Hours in the Saddle: 3-5
Day 6: Hiking Sierra Baguales, frontier of Chile, Accommodation Lodge Cerro Guido (www.cerroguido.cl)
Today you will pack a light backpack for the first day of hiking, beginning in the Sierra Baguales (Wild Mountains). First we will drive approximately 1.5 hours down the dirt road that accesses the Park, before turning to the East and arriving at the base of the mountains. This area is significantly different from the Torres del Paine, being a much older mountain range, divided up into private ranches, which are closed to the public. Due to the lack of developed trails, hiking without a guide is not advised. The Sierra Baguales spread down from the glaciers of the Southern Ice Field, forming a spine of bizarre shaped peaks and ledges. Theories state that thousands of years ago, the first humans to reach Patagonia migrated down through South America and crossed over the Sierra Baguales into the Torres del Paine sector. The ancient Aonikink Indians revered the mountain range, believing it to be the graveyard for their gods. Several archaeological expeditions have been conducted in the area due to the relative abundance of artifacts found here. We ask that you please respect this sacred area and do not remove any objects.
Day 7: Hike to Tio Chicho Lake, Optional Fishing, Accommodation Hotel Las Torres (www.lastorres.com)
After a lovely breakfast in the estancia, you will pack a small day pack with personal neccessities for the days´ hike, to discover a hidden treasure high in the Sierra Baguales, arriving at the most remote human settlements in the area.
At any point, you may find the the trail of wild horses, and will surely see a few herds, during your travels through the mountains. Horses have inhabited this land for over 500 years, and used to run wild in the mountains by the thousands. In the beginning, red and blue roan was the predominant color, although after the introduction of several different breeds of stallions, colors became more varying. You may spot the large and fearsome, black Thoroughbred stallion, or possibly the massive chestnut Percheron, who travels with his herd closer to the estancia houses.
The hike starts out near Estancia La Cumbre which was founded in 1923 by "ChiCho" Vidal. Tio ChiCho was told he was crazy to establish an estancia in such a harsh an inhospitable area. He did not listen however, and was captivated by the mystical mountains and their ancient secrets. He and his family endured many hardships in the Baguales, and during the winter he drove his herd of over 150 horses through 1.5 meters of snow, to open a road for his sheep. The summers were long and warm, with many fiestas. ChiCho would ride his horse over the mountains to El Calafate, and his Argentine friends would cross the mountains every year to celebrate his birthday in true gaucho style, bringing pack horses loaded with wine, lamb and gifts. These roudy gauchos would round up the wild horses and have a true rodeo, in the corrals of the estancia!
As you approach the estancia, you may be able to imagine the pioneer days, of over 80 years ago, and possibly hear the legends of the Aonikenk, whispered on the wind.
Optional lunchtime fishing at a remote mountain lake.
Transfer to the luxurious Hotel Las Torres
Hike Duration: 6-8 Hours
Elevation Gain/ Loss: Undetermined
Day 8: Hike to Base las Torres, Sleep Refugio Chileno
We will get started early in the day to beat the crowds of afternoon hikers, anxious for a view of the incredible Towers. Heading up the Ascencio Valley, our path hugs the side of the river, winding through deep, old growth forests and frequently crossing streams of water originating from the waterfalls on the valley’s crest. After several hours of hiking, we will reach the bend in the trail that will lead us up to the base of Las Torres. This part of the hike is a heart pumping climb over large boulders, rising 1,200 feet in .5 miles!
The fortitude pays off when we reach the top, and the magnificent granite monoliths appear, looming over a milky green lake. The three towers rise between 6,745 feet and 8,550 feet straight into the air, piercing the air with their craggily peaks. After lunch, and resting our legs with a siesta in the sun, we will return down the same path, through the Ascencio Valley. After the great morning hike, you will be happy to find that your accommodation is only halfway back down the valley at Refugio Chileno. The refugios are small mountain huts, equipped with mens/womens showers and restrooms, co-ed bunk rooms and a full service dining room.
Be sure to take off your shoes before entering the huts, and sit down for a game of cards with other travellers from around the world, or enjoy a little shut eye in the cozy bunk rooms, before dinner in the dining room.
*Sleeping bags required
• Hiking [12 miles round trip, 8 to 9 hours; 2,300 feet of elevation gain / loss]
Day 9: Hiking from Los Cuernos to Refugio Chileno en the Ascencio Valley
Today we will wake up early for a more moderate, but equally beautiful hike, curving around Lago Nordenskjold. After passing the Bader Valley, carved by glaciers on the backside of Los Cuernos, we will follow the trail, named Los Cuernos Pass, skirting the shores of Lake Nordenskjold. As Las Torres disappear from sight at our backs, the rest of the Paine Massif will unfold before us, first with the unveiling of Almirente Nieto, the 8,538 foot peak capped with a large, turquoise glacier. Waterfalls are numerous along this path, as are "chaura" a small apple looking berry, loaded with protein, and fairly tasty.
We will stop for lunch on the banks of Rio Ascencio, and may even have time for a small siesta if the weather is clear and warm. After lunch we will prepare for the remainder of the hike, curving through spurts of forest and summiting small shale hillsides. Below stretches an expanse of valleys, rivers and lakes of every shade of blue. Once we round the last hill, we will hike down a narrow trail of shale before crossing a rushing stream, to reach the secluded and aptly named Refugio Los Cuernos.
This hut sits nestled in the woods at the base of Cuerno East and Cuerno Principal, on the shores of Lago Nordenskjold. After a well deserved hot shower, enjoy a pre-dinner beer and visit with other hikers, or simply relax and reflect on your incredible day at the worlds end.
*Sleeping bags required
-Hike from Chileno to Cuernos (8 hours, 10 miles, 1,280 feet gain/loss in elevation)
Day 10: Hike from Los Cuernos to Refugio Pehoe, with side hike up the French Valley
Rising early, we will begin our hike below the Cuernos (Horns) formation. The solid, granite structures rise to an elevation of between 7,040 feet and 8,300 feet and are topped by a solid black layer of sedimentary rock.
The trail will gently rise and fall until we reach the French River. Here, we will cross a long, swinging bridge suspended over the raging, crystal blue waters to reach Campamento Italiano on the opposite shore. From here, our trail diverts to the North, slowly rising up the 4,000 foot deep French Valley. We will hike up and over the bolder strewn moraine, through the quiet forest, crossing many small creeks along the way. Halfway up the valley we will arrive at an incredible bowl shaped opening, adorned with hanging glaciers of all different shapes and sizes. Marvel at the beauty of this wonderful place and listen to the constant trickle of water liberated from thousands of years in ice. Searching the horizon above you may see a cloud of white dust, signifying an avalanche caused by a piece of ice breaking off. We will refuel with lunch at the lookout, enjoying the gorgeous view of Lake Nordenskjold and the rolling hills beyond.
At the end of the day, we will drop down to our last refugio, at teh base of the 8,320 foot peak of Paine Grande, the highest formation in the National Park, and noted for its scoop shaped hanging glacier cradled between two peaks.
*Sleeping bags required
-Hike from Los Cuernos to Pehoe (5 hours, 8 miles, 200 feet elevation gain/ loss)
Day 11: Hike to Glacier Grey Lookout, Catamaran cruise across Lago Pehoe, Transfer to Cabañas del Paine
(www.caañasdelpaine.cl)
Today will be your last day of venturing on your own two legs, as you arise early to tackle a short hike to a beautiful lookout over Glacier Grey.
The hike begins by climbing briskly through thick forests, emerging several times to reveal false lookout points. There will be no mistaking the real lookout, once it is reached, as you will have an amazing view of the impressive Glacier Grey, and will feel the force of the incredible glacial wind, tearing across the lake. Massive icebergs dots the lake below, floating eventually to a long beach that blocks their exit into the icy waters of the Grey River.
After marveling at the immense glacier, you will head back down the mountainside, eating your picnic lunch at a nice spot along the way, or once you reach the beaches of Pehoe Lake.
At the lake, you will prepare to board the catamaran, which cruises across Pehoe in about 30 minutes. There are three crossings per day, so you will need to be prepared when the boat arrives. Onboard, the crew offers Nescafe and hot chocolate, making the spectacular views even that much more enjoyable.
Once across the lake, you will meet with a transfer vehicle which will take you the rest of the distance to the Serrano River. Time allowing, you may stop at the Park Administration Center, for a quick glance at a neat topographic map, and learn more about the Park environment.
Finally, you will reach your cozy accommodation, Cabañas del Paine, perched on the banks of the Serrano River. Dinner will be served in the dining room, overlooking the River and the entire Park, while you discuss the following days activities.
Hike to Glacier Grey Lookout: 5 Hours (roundtrip)
Day 12: Kayak Rio Serrano, Wilderness Camp on Rio Serrano
Stretch your arms out well, because today you will begin the descent down the beautiful Rio Serrano. Ultimate destination... Puerto Natales.
At 10:30am, you will meet with your kayak guide on a designated point on the Serrano River. The guide will hand out wet suits and other appropriate equipment, and will give a thorough safety demonstration before loading up your small pack into the sea kayaks and setting off.
You may try a vigorous paddle, or relax and let the currents carry you as you wind along at the base of the towering Torres del Paine. A short while after setting off, you will need to portage the Serrano Falls, where a short hike with the kayaks (200 meters), will help you avoid the tumbling water.
After paddling for approximately four hours, your guide will begin the search for an appropriate campsite. Drag the kayaks to shore and begin setting up tents, and making a fire for a delicious dinner out under the stars.
Time Kayaking: 4-5 Hours
Day 13: Kayak Rio Serrano to Puerto Toro, short hike to Serrano Glacier, Catamaran cruise across Last Hope Sound, Asado dinner (www.weskarlodge.cl)
After a healthy breakfast, you should be ready to paddle by 0830, floating the kayaks once again, into the Serrano River. As you cruise downstream, the Torres del Paine will disappear behind, and the Chacabuco mountain range and Balmaceda Mountain will rise up ahead, welcoming you to the mouth of Last Hope Sound.
Once the group arrives at Puerto Toro, you will have the chance to hike to the base of Serrano Glacier, before boarding the catamaran and setting sail at 1300. The cruise will travel through Last Hope Sound, passing cormorant colonies and condor nests along the way. At 1430, the boat will stop at Estancia Perales for a delicious and hearty country lunch, before conitnuing on to Puerto Natales. The boat should dock around 6pm, and you and your guide will collect the backpacks that returned in auto to Puerto Natales, before be dropped at your hotel for a refreshing shower.
At around 7:30, you will meet up again with your guide and group, at the Criollo Expeditions, Base of Operations, to indulge in an infamous patagonian, slow roasted lamb barbeque (asado), served with organic potatoes, salads and rich chilean wines.
Relive the hilarities and favorite moment of your epic adventure, among friends new and old before heading to the hotel for a much deserved sleep.
Hours Kayaking: 3-4
Catamaran: 4
Day 14: Morning Free in Puerto Natales, Transfer to hotel, Punta Arenas
You may take the morning to wander the quaint town of Puerto Natales, ducking into the interesting curio shops and perhaps searching for a great cup of coffee, before meeting with the transfer that will take you back south to your hotel in Punta Arenas.
Depending on what the group decides, you may depart at any time for Punta Arenas. Lunch and dinner on your own.
Day 15: Morning Free in Punta Arenas, Afternoon Penguin Viewing: Isla Magdalena
1500- Meet boat at Muelle Tres Puentes (Three Bridges Dock) for an exhilierating afternoon boat tour of Isla Magdalena. The island lies 35km into the Straight of Magellan, and was declared a National Park in 1966.
Isla Magdalena is the summertime home to over 60,000 pairs of Magellanic Penguins, one of the largest penguin colonies in Southern Chile. The penguins return each year, to occupy the same caves that they have built in the past. Between October and March, they are found outside their dens, practically covering the surface of the island, making for a unique and unforgettable experience!
2000 Return the the boat dock, and transfer back to hotel
**It is reccommended that you bring a box lunch from your hotel, or a snack for during the excursion
Day 16: Transfer to Airport, onward flight