Trip Ref #10415
DURATION
10 nights
LOCATION
Chile
ANNUAL LEAVE
7 days off work
SEASON
Nov-Apr
GROUP SIZE
Up to 10 people
MEETING POINT
Puerto Natales Airport, Chile
ACCOMMODATION
Classic
Hotel · Wild camping · Campsite · Mountain hut
OVERALL RATING
0.0
DIFFICULTY
Moderate
No kayaking experience is needed but you'll be in the wild, so previous hiking experience and a good level of fitness would be an advantage
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
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
6hrs · 14km · 575m up
Driving
3hrs
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
8hrs · 10km · 500m up · 500m down
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
7hrs · 15km · 700m up · 125m down
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
6hrs · 13km · 100m up · 100m down
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
9hrs · 21km · 550m up · 600m down
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
4hrs · 11km · 240m up
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
4hrs · 16km
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
6hrs · 22km
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
2hrs · 4km
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.
Included
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
Not Included
Flights to and from the meeting point
Travel insurance
Personal expenses
Tips for your guides
Visas where required
Day 1
Hotel · Twin share
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 2 – Day 3
Wild camping · Twin tent
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 4 – Day 6
Campsite · Twin tent
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 7
Mountain hut · Twin share
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 8 – Day 9
Wild camping · Twin tent
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 10
Hotel · Twin share
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 11
Departure day
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.
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.
Enjoy 12.5% Off Outdoor Gear
In need of a few more items? All bookings receive a 12.5% discount to use at Cotswold Outdoor, Snow + Rock and Runner's Need.
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’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.
We've crunched the numbers to work out the total carbon footprint of this trip, and plant enough trees to suck 2x as much back out the atmosphere.
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 for 2023 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. For every person booked with us since 2016 we’re planting enough trees to suck at least 2x more carbon out the atmosphere than is emitted by their trips. All native trees, as part of amazing projects that are re-foresting degraded land, tackling the biodiversity crisis and supporting local communities at the same time. We go further than that too, also funding re-wilding projects worldwide to help protect important keystone species from extinction. See the reforestation and re-wilding schemes we support. See our carbon action plan.
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.
While the trekking is not technically difficult, you'll be hiking for 6 days in total, covering a good distance each day with some steep sections, making this trip perfect for hikers and trekkers in good condition with some previous experience. You do not need any previous kayaking experience, full guidance will be provided at the beginning of the trip and while on the water. A general level of fitness will be useful, building a little arm strength before can help with the kayaking. You will be in a tandem kayak by default.
Sure can! Over 50% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
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.
The Patagonian summer generally offers mild days and cool nights. Patagonia days are long - the sun rises early and sets late. Typically temperatures range from about 10°C to the mid-20s during the day, dropping to 5°C at night. Temperatures tend to be cooler during December and March. Rain and very strong winds are possible any time of year and can make temperatures seem very cold. We recommend being prepared for all types of weather by dressing in layers.
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.
We recommend checking out the country specific information here and also talking to a travel nurse.
Our recommended travel insurance provider is Campbell Irvine.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures and you are required to provide your policy information before departing.
Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. We also strongly recommend it includes cancellation and curtailment insurance, should you be unable to join your trip for specific reasons such as illness.
We fully endorse Campbell Irvine as their insurance offers all of the above, so get in touch with them or call on 020 7938 1734 to get your insurance sorted. We suggest that you book travel insurance as soon as you book your adventure, just to cover you for any last-minute life changes. We know you’re an active lot and injuries do happen!
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 (18+) as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. Children can be accommodated on some private departures.
You're in good company. Our adventures are typically made up of a mix of solo travellers and small groups of two or three friends who simply love adventure, pushing themselves and meeting awesome like-minded people. See here for more info about our lovely bunch of Much Better Adventurers.
Want to book a private trip? Just tap ‘Private Group’ in the dates and prices tab.
Your trip is led by carefully curated local hosts and expert guides. See here for more info about the guides we work with.
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