Paine in the winter
This winter trekking adventure in the southern Patagonian Andes of Chile takes us into one of the natural wonders of South America: The Torres Del Paine National Park.
We will pick you up at the airport and head to Puerto Natales for our first night. From here sail on the Last Hope Sound to the Serrano Galcier before crossing the Patagonian plains the next day and heading into this vast wilderness area that is the Torres del Paine National Park.
The mountain massif is encircled by a glacial hydrological system linking numerous opaque, silica-rich lakes of various hues of blue. The wintry season transforms the park into a dazzling white arena which we aim, weather permitting, to show you the highlights of.
We start in the West at Grey Beach and work round various lookouts with short but stunning and fully guided hikes. Our destination is always a comfy and warm lodge with fires, food and drinks to share the day's adventure.
The highlight will be the two thousand metre high Cuernos (Horns) and Torres (Towers) must be seen to be believed.
Day 1: Punta Arenas - Puerto Natales
Late morning collection from Punta Arenas airport in private transfer vehicle before setting off across the Patagonian Steppe to see some of the unusual plant and animal life that exists in this area. Our destination is Puerto Natales situated beside the beautiful and mythical waters of Last Hope sound. The town is the gateway to Torres del Paine which on a clear day can be seen in the distance. Here we can wander along the waterfront and dine in one of the town's fine restaurants. The night will be spent at Hotel Weskar. Just a short walk from Puerto Natales, this wooden-built hotel has gorgeous views of Last Hope Sound and the black necked swans that bob about on its waters. Rooms are light and airy. Laundry and internet are on site. Dinner included, excluding wine and drinks. Trip briefing in restaurant in town.
Hotel options: Hotel If, a contemporary spacious hotel situated in the centre of town. D.
Day 2: Serrano Glacier
After breakfast, take a taxi to the quayside for a boat trip to the beautiful and remote Serrano Glacier located in Bernardo O’Higgins National Park. Note the boat will only run with a minimum number of clients so if the boat is not running we can organize one of the following: 1. horse riding with local baqueano Adan on Sierra Dorotea which offers comfortable riding of a high ascent with incredible views of the lakes, mountains and glaciers of the area. 2. kayaking on Last Hope Sound in comfortable kayaks with (on a clear day) views of the peaks and glaciers of Paine, or 3. a relaxing and energizing yoga session with Susana in the beautiful yoga dome situated just outside Puerto Natales. Final choice will depend on the weather and the preference of the group. Night in hotel in Puerto Natales as above. All meals included (drinks available at extra cost). B,L,D
Day 3: Puerto Natales - Paine
Transfer to Torres del Paine on the new road which cuts through granite peaks taking you past some awe inspiring scenery with the azure waters of Lago Toro in the foreground and snow capped mountains behind. Continue on to Grey Lake beach for a walk along the sandy shores admiring the floating icebergs and immense glacier Grey in the distance. For those with the energy we can walk to the beautiful Mt Ferrier lookout which is situated in the south west section of the Park with far reaching views from its summit. Accommodation will be in the cabins at Hosteria Tyndall (this is the only open lodging in the area during this coming winter). Basic lodging in small en suite cabins with all meals included (with wine included at dinner). B,L,D.
Day 5: Hike to the Towers
After breakfast we will be driving across the heart of the Park towards the granite peaks known as The Towers. Our hike today is the challenging hike to the base of these granite spires that form the centre piece of this geographical wonder. A roundtrip trek which takes us into the Ascencio Valley and through old beech forests to a moraine field. A steep climb over and around these giant boulders reward us with one of the most amazing views in Torres del Paine. Weather permitting, we will eat our final lunch at this incredible viewpoint before descending to the trail head where we will meet our waiting vehicle for the short drive east to our destination which is the authentic and comfortable ranch house belonging to Estancia Tercera. Comfortable and cosy accommodation in this authentic country house with fabulous views of the Towers from its large west facing windows. Fireside living room/bar and traditional quincho (wooden dining room with outside BBQ area). En suite rooms. All meals included (wine with dinner available at extra cost). B,L,D.
Day 5: Estancia Horse Ride
After breakfast, we will meeting our horses and saddling up for our exciting ride west towards the Torres and Lago Paine. Just before Laguna Azul we head north towards Laguna Stokes where a large natural vega or pasture exists. This area attracts wild criollos from the surrounding hills to graze in the summer and with luck with will get to see them (the viewings are not guaranteed). There will be many excellent photo opportunities on this route as we pass through forests, pastures and the lake where Lady Florence Dixie first camped having sighted the Towers. Afternoon return to Estancia Tercera Barranca. Breakfast, packed lunch and dinner included (drinks available at extra cost). Hours in the saddle: 5-6 / suitable for novice riders. B,L,D.
Day 6: Punta Arenas.
After our breakfast of home baked bread and cakes we will join our private transfer for the drive out of the Park to Punta Arenas . The journey time is approximately 5 hours but we will stop for lunch and to stretch our legs in Puerto Natales. Night in the Hotel Rey Don Felipe or similar. Breakfast and lunch only today. Dinner at leisure in one of Punta Arenas ’ many excellent restaurants.
B,L. End of services.
Please note: Flexibility is important for this amazing itinerary. The Grey boat will run if there are enough people.
The itinerary can be modified if you are coming in from or heading to EL Calafate.
Check our Winter In Patagonia programme, group and tailor made options. And you can always contact the office with questions or for advice.
Included
Accommodation as stated based on twin share; transfers to and from airport/hotel and whilst in Park, guide throughout, vehicle support, all meals stated (excluding drinks and personal items in hotels), Park entrance fees.
Not included
Flights, airport taxes, airport transfers, accommodation and meals in Punta Arenas, lunch in Natales Day 1 and Day 6, local gratuities ($40 recommended), personal items
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