Hike, Kayak and Wild Camp in Patagonia
Trek through towering peaks on Chile’s epic Route of Parks, paddle past icebergs and tumbling glaciers and sleep under the stars
What's Included?
Small Like-minded Groups
Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 10 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people…
…
What's it like?
Explore the rugged beauty of Torres del Paine and Bernardo O’Higgins National Park and access remote spots that few seldom see
Hike deep into the Paine massif, past Grey Glacier, French and Silent Valley and the imposing three spires of Torres del Paine
Paddle the fjords and icebergs under the Southern Patagonian Ice Field and wild camp on the banks of the Rio Serrano
Key Information
Day 1
Welcome to Puerto Natales
Touchdown in Puerto Natales, the gateway to the famous Torres del Paine National Park. Settle into your hotel then get to know your guide and fellow adventurers over dinner and hear all about the adventure ahead. Be sure to check out the vibrant colours that paint the sky at sunset!
Day 2
Torres del Paine
Hiking
Driving
After breakfast, hop in the van and head to Torres del Paine National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Keep an eye out for guanacos - little cousins to the camel and llama - along the way. Once at the park entrance it's time to lace up your boots. You'll head off into the Ascencio Valley, passing through beautiful beech forests, talus-covered slopes and boulders until reaching your first campsite. Enjoy dinner beneath the stars before a good night's rest.
Day 3
The Silent Valley
Hiking
Emerge from your tent to the stunning surroundings and the smell of coffee brewing. After breakfast, it's time to hike deep into the Paine Massif. You’ll trek behind the popular towers and explore the hidden gem of Silent Valley, a high alpine valley with a debris-covered glacier resting at the bottom. The granite peaks tower over the valley and you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of the north face of the three Torres del Paine in an amphitheatre surrounded by granite walls and hanging glaciers, which few visitors ever get to see. Then it's back to camp for dinner and a night of stargazing - if weather permits.
Day 4
Las Torres Valley
Hiking
Kick start the day with a yummy breakfast before hitting the trail and making your way out of the Ascencio Valley. You’ll make a slight detour inside the Las Torres Valley to marvel at the great granite spires - a highlight of many a Patagonian adventure. After the detour, you’ll continue out of the valley and enjoy views towards the south where the landscape flattens and lakes and rivers fill in the lowlands. Reach your campsite and enjoy a cooked meal and a good night’s sleep under a Patagonian night sky.
Day 5
Nordenskjold Lake
Hiking
Today you’ll hike along the shores of the colourful Nordenskjöld Lake, named after the famous Swedish geologist. Enjoy the views of the icefield and the Paine Grande with its hanging glacier that open up to the west before you finally reach your next campsite in this remote and beautiful place.
Day 6
The French Valley
Hiking
Tuck into breakfast at camp before strapping on your daypack and heading deep into the most spectacular valley of the entire Paine massif. Take in the views as you hike along the French Glacier and Paine Grande, the highest mountain in the massif. You’ll pass through beautiful troll-forest before arriving at the heart of the massif to enjoy a stunning amphitheatre of tall granite peaks. Continue onto the Pehoe campsite where you'll spend the night.
Day 7
Glacier Grey
Hiking
Start today with a hike along the Grey Lake then hop on the boat and cruise up Lago Grey, passing huge blue icebergs. Marvel at the three glacial tongues of the Glacier Grey before jumping off at the southern beach. Take a short hike to the waiting van that will take you to your accommodation just outside the park. Tonight you can relax at the refuge and sample some delicious Chilean wine.
Day 8
Serrano River
Kayaking
Prepare your dry bags as the kayaking gets underway today. After a quick intro to kayaking, you’ll paddle across the first section of the Rio Serrano until you reach the Serrano waterfall. Here you'll have your first team challenge to carry the kayaks around it. You'll jump back into the boats paddling past beautiful Coigue and Cypress forests that grow on the river shores. Find a wild camp spot, set up your tents and kick back and enjoy nature.
Day 9
Southern Ice Field
Kayaking
Fuel up on breakfast and then it’s back in your kayak towards the Southern Patagonian ice field. You’ll keep paddling downriver, passing amazing views of Tyndall Glacier and Geike Range along the way. Finally, you'll reach Puerto Toro in the Bernardo O'Higgins National Park and your final wild camp near the Serrano Glacier.
Day 10
Bernardo O'Higgins National Park
Kayaking
Up bright and early today, you'll grab your kayak and carry it for 100m from camp to the Serrano Lagoon. Then hit the water and paddle among the icebergs in front of the magnificent Serrano Glacier. It's then back to camp, to pack up all the gear and catch the '21 de Mayo' boat back to Puerto Natales. You’ll stop at Estancia Perales along the way, a remote waterside estancia, where you'll enjoy a traditional farewell BBQ.
Day 11
All good things must come to an end
After your Patagonian adventure, it's time to head home. Your transfer will pick you up from your hostel in Puerto Natales and take you to the airport in time for your onward journey.
The Area
Logistics
Starts
Teniente Julio Gallardo Airport, Puerto Natales
Anytime on Day 1
Ends
Teniente Julio Gallardo Airport, Puerto Natales
Anytime on Day 11
Transfers
Your host will pick you up on arrival on Day 1 and drop you off on departure on Day 11. If you arrive early or extend your stay, your host can arrange a private transfer for you. See Optional Extras for pricing.
Travel options
There are frequent flights to Puerto Natales (PNT) usually going via Santiago from major airports across the UK, Europe and US.
Day 1
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 2 – Day 3
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 4 – Day 6
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 7
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 8 – Day 9
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 10
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 11
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
What is the food like?
Puerto Natales has several local restaurants and bars that serve hearty Argentinean, Chilean and international food. While out in the wilderness your hosts will serve up surprisingly lavish meals. As a rough idea, for breakfast you can expect corn tortilla, granola, tea, coffee, chocolate milk, bacon, eggs, yoghurt and bread. A packed lunch will be provided each day containing a combo of chocolate, dried fruit and nuts, a cereal bar, fruit and a sandwich. For dinner expect a combination of soup, beef chop suey, smoked meat (or a vegetarian alternative)
Vegetarians, vegans and other dietary requirements and allergies can be catered for - please just request on your passenger info form.
What is the accommodation like?
Puerto Natales
You'll spend 2 nights in Puerto Natales at the Hotel Vendaval or similar, located in the gastronomic neighborhood of Puerto Natales , 3 blocks from the waterfront and 1 block from the main square, Plaza de Armas. The Hotel Vendaval features a restaurant, bar, a shared lounge and garden. All rooms are fitted with a private bathroom with a shower.
Pampa Refuge
You'll spend 1 night at the Pampa Refuge, surrounded by breathtaking views of the Paine Massif and Paine River. Each room is for 4 guests and you'll have access to shared bathrooms. This is the perfect spot for a good night's sleep after a day of adventures.
Torres Del Paine National Park Campsites
You'll spend 3 nights camping in stunning campsites across the National Park. Tents are provided and your porters will pitch camp ready for your arrival each day. Facilities depend on the campsite, you'll stay at Japones, Torres, Frances and Pehoe campsites.
The Wilderness
You'll spend 4 nights wild camping in twin-person tents in remote and serene locations. High-quality twin tents are provided. If the weather is nice you can also choose to forego the tent and sleep under the stars!
Upgrades
For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room in Puerto Natales (2 nights) and camping (3 nights) can be booked for an extra charge, see Optional Extras for the price. Due to the limited number of rooms and tents, it is not possible to request a private room upgrade for wild camping and the refuge. This is subject to availability, please request this at the time of booking.
We’re still waiting to collect any reviews from other travellers on this trip. However, all our hosts go through an extensive vetting process to ensure that your adventure is awesome.
Guides
Expert, English-speaking local kayaking and hiking guides
Accommodation
6 nights camping in Torres del Paine, 2 in a hotel, 1 in a refuge and 2 wild camping
Meals
Local delicious food throughout
Transfers
Both airport transfers and travel between locations
Equipment
All your kayaking and camping equipment except sleeping bag
Permits
National park permits and fees
Porterage
All your group equipment will be carried for you on days 2, 3 and 4
Our trips are hassle-free by design. We include all the activities and equipment, as well as many of the meals, so you can simply rock up with your rucksack and share the adventure with your new pals.
Personal Expenses
You know your own spending habits best, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals and drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry.
What's included?
Tandem sea kayaks
Life jacket
Paddle
Dry bags
Twin-share expedition tent
Neoprene gloves and boots
What do I need to bring?
BAGS
Backpack 50-70L (big enough for all your personal things but remember you will be carrying it)
Waterproof liner for kitbag/drybags
CLOTHES
Insulating jacket
Waterproof jacket
Waterproof trousers
Breathable wicking layers
Fleece jacket or similar
Thermals (merino best)
Warm hat
Gloves
Buff or neckscarf
Quick drying trousers/shorts
T-shirts
Underwear & socks
Sunglasses
Sunhat
Something to sleep in
Hiking boots (worn-in)
Sandals
SLEEPING
Sleeping bag (3 season)
Travel pillow
Thermarest or sleeping mat
OTHER
Trekking poles (highly recommended)
Universal travel plug adapter
Power bank or solar charger
Passports (and visas)
Travel Insurance documents
Ear plugs
Insect repellant
Suncream
Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc)
Toilet kit (toilet paper, biodegradable bags to carry paper out to dispose of)
Quick-dry towel
Alcohol hand-gel
Headtorch or torch
Reusable water bottle (x1 litre)
Biodegradable wet-wipes
Energy bars and snacks
Pre/Post-trip accommodation in Puerto Natales (Single)
Payable Before Departure
Pre/Post-trip accommodation in Puerto Natales (Single)
… Per night
Pre/Post-trip accommodation in Puerto Natales (Twin/Double)
Payable Before Departure
Pre/Post-trip accommodation in Puerto Natales (Twin/Double)
… Per night
Optional Private Room and Tent Upgrade
Payable Before Departure
Optional Private Room and Tent Upgrade
… Per person
Private Airport Transfer
Payable Before Departure
Private Airport Transfer
… Per person
We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.
What's the number?
It works out on average at 148kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.
The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.
But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:
- Driving 1000miles/1609km would be approx. 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person if there was 2 of you in it).
- A return economy class flight London - New York would be approx. 1,619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
- 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approx. 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.
What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.
Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.
Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion but there is an expectation to tip for good service. Your guide will help with advice, however we suggest the below as a guideline per person:
$10 per day for guide $5 per day for porter
Of course, you are free to tip more or less, and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality - a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
You can drink the tap water in Chile without any significant issues. Take a water bottle as your host will have large drinking water containers from which you'll be able to refill your bottle. There are also many glacier streams and rivers where you can refill your bottle, your host will inform you of which ones are safe to drink from. This is some of the freshest and cleanest water you can drink.
Yes, you can store excess luggage at your host's office base at the start of the trip. You'll also leave behind a prepared bag containing the equipment you need for the kayaking leg of your adventure. The support team will meet you on the evening of Day 7 with your prepared bag for the kayaking section.
Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).
For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.
We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.
We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.
If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.
All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. You must be over 18 to join one of our trips.
You're always in good company on one of our adventures.
Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.
Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.
It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.
Don't just take our word for it:
- 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
- 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
- 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends
See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.
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