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 we cross the Patagonian plains and into this vast wilderness area.
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
We meet you at Punta Arenas airport and drive to Puerto Natales. We will spend a night in Hotel Weskar or similar, enjoy a welcome dinner and trip briefing as we plan our foray into Paine. Dinner included (drinks extra).
Day 2: Puerto Natales - Paine
After breakfast, drive into Torres del Paine via a new road and then hike up to Grey Beach to see the brilliant blue icebergs that are flowting around in the waters.
After lunch we will hike up to the Ferrier lookout, about 1.5-2 hours each way. On the way back we stop at visitor centre before heading to spend a night in Posada Serrano or one of the Serrano Hotels. B,L,D (drinks extra).
Day 3: Nordenskjold, Salto Grande and Sierra de Toro
We're up early and we head out in our vehicle to Refugio Pudeto situated on southern side of Pehoe Lake. From here, we hike to the Nordenskjold lookout and then on to the dramatic Salto Grande falls.
After lunch hike up to Sierra del Toro for great views of Park, before we head back to the Posada or Serrano Hotel. B,L,D (drinks extra).
Day 4: Up and over hike
Today we hike the fabulous 'up and over' hike across the heart of the Park - great vistas throughout. (weather permitting).
Once we have finished our hike through this amazing stretch, our transfer vehicle is waiting for us at Laguna Amarga for the short drive to Estancia Tercera Barranca. B,L,D (drinks extra).
Day 5: Hike to the Towers
Drive to Las Torres trailhead for fabulous hike up to the Towers (weather permitting). This is a full day's hike and one which brings its rewards when you see the imposing Towers.
Return to Estancia Tercera for the night and our last dinner in the park. B,L,D (drinks extra).
Day 6: Transfer out
Transfer to Punta Arenas airport or possibly start our Winter In Patagonia programme.
Please note: Flexibility is important for this amazing itinerary. One of the Serrano hotels will be open but we do not know which one. Hiking will depend on snow levels. The Up & Over may not be possible, but we will substitute depending on the your ability, weather and snow levels - same the Towers' hike. The Grey boat will run if there are enough people.
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
|
