Short itinerary
This 13-day itinerary will take you to the southern-most lands of the Americas. Immerse yourself in Patagonian ranching culture and hike the wild mountains while you stay at a traditional estancia in the Torres del Paine National Park before embarking on a cruise like no other through the breathtaking fjords and channels of Tierra del Fuego. Arrive in the world’s southern-most city, Ushuaia, for a thrilling outdoor experience, including a picturesque hike to an emerald-blue lagoon, off-roading through the Fuegian mountains, and a visit to the penguins by canoe.
On this journey through Chilean and Argentinian Patagonia, you’ll be immersed in active experiences to enjoy the best of these incredible landscapes, learn about local cultures and history through interactive educational experiences, and create memories to last a lifetime in a spectacular wilderness.
*Departure dates for the cruise segment of this itinerary are fixed. Speak with us to find out more information and how we can adapt this itinerary for your traveling dates.
Private Transfer
Welcome to Chile! Upon your arrival at Santiago airport, your private transfer will take you to your hotel in the upscale Vitacura neighborhood. Once you’re checked in and refreshed spend the afternoon exploring the local area and center of Chile’s bustling capital. Check out the Bellavista and Lastarria neighborhoods for some exciting restaurants, or head to the Plaza de Armas and Moneda Palaca for a taste of the country’s history. If you want to stretch your legs, try climbing the San Cristobal or Santa Lucia hills!
Meals: None.
Eco Boutique Hotel Bidasoa
In the morning, after breakfast and checking out, your transfer will take you to Santiago’s domestic airport for your flight to Puerto Natales. Enjoy your first views of Patagonia on the drive to your accommodation for the next few days: the incredible Cerro Guido Estancia.
This accommodation is a traditional working Patagonian ranch, where horses and dogs herd the sheep that roam the wild and rugged landscapes. Settle in for the next few days, explore the grounds, and enjoy a delicious dinner as you prepare for your time in the magnificent Torres del Paine National Park.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner.
Estancia Cerro Guido
While staying at the Estancia, you’ll be able to choose from a range of activities here. Opt to explore the incredible landscapes of Torres del Paine on foot, horseback or 4×4, head out on a conservation safari, or discover the culture and history of this magnificent place. We’ve suggested an itinerary for the next few days, but you will choose for yourself upon arrival.
Shared Full-Day Tour: Base of the Towers Hike
Embark on one of Patagonia’s classic hikes, the iconic Torres del Paine trek. Departing early from the hotel, we venture into Torres del Paine National Park, beginning our ascent towards the Macizo Paine. The journey includes a challenging 2km climb into the Ascencio Valley, passing through the Chilean Camp and ascending through a forest. Finally, we reach the base of Glacier Moraine, for a final steep climb to the breathtaking viewpoint of the towers. Witnessing the towering granite peaks—symbolic of Torres del Paine—is a rewarding finale to this unforgettable Patagonian adventure.
After resting and taking photos at the top, we’ll follow the same path down to return to our starting point and back to the estancia for well-deserved meal and night’s rest!
Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch & Dinner
Difficulty: High
Estancia Cerro Guido
On your second day at the Estancia, you will be able to select another tour of your choosing. The following is our suggestion to immerse you in the Patagonian culture.
Shared Full-Day Tour: Estancia Day
On this picturesque tour, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the vast and stunning landscapes of Estancia Cerro Guido. The morning will take you out on horseback (catered to riders of all levels). Explore the estancia on horseback as you take in the breathtaking views of Lake Sarmiento, the Sierra Baguales, and the majestic Paine Massif. Along the way, we’ll encounter a variety of wildlife, including guanacos, rheas, foxes, horses, and sheep, adding to the magic of our journey through Patagonia.
After our horseback ride, it’s time to indulge in one of Patagonia’s most cherished traditions: the famous “Asado de Cordero,” or barbequed lamb. Prepared with care and expertise, this traditional feast promises to tantalize our taste buds and provide a true taste of Patagonian cuisine.
Following lunch, our exploration continues with a visit to the administration house, where we’ll receive a half-hour introduction to the history and significance of the estancia within the context of Patagonia’s development, particularly in relation to sheep farming. Then we’ll step outside to learn for ourselves what estancia life is like, from the care and handling of horses to the organic garden and free-range chickens before heading back to the main house to relax for the evening!
Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch & Dinner
Estancia Cerro Guido
Private transfer
After breakfast, a private transfer will pick you up to take you to Punta Arenas for your cruise through Tierra del Fuego! Enjoy the scenic views of southern Patagonia along the route and keep an eye out for any wildlife! Upon arriving in Punta Arenas, you can check in for your cruise.
*Note that this is a long transfer of approx. 4 hours.
Private Half-Day Tour: Fuerte Bulnes
Once checked-in for your cruise, you’ll make the most of the afternoon with a tour in the local area. Your guide will pick you up from the check-in point to take you to Fort Bulnes. Explore the first Chilean settlement in Southern Patagonia, established on September 21, 1843, on the Santa Ana Peninsula, facing the Strait of Magallanes. This historical site offers insight into the challenges faced by Chilean settlers who inhabited the region. The experience includes a tour of the Visitor Center of the Park and an incredible panoramic view of the area.
Returning to Punta Arenas port, it’s time to hop on board the expedition ship and set sail along some incredible channels, fjords, and bays. Enjoy a delightful gourmet dinner on board as you take in the scenery and take advantage of the lounge and onboard facilities before relaxing in your spacious cabin for the night!
*Check-in for the Tierra del Fuego cruise is between 13:00 and 17:00. Boarding is between 18:00 and 19:00. Note that there is no internet or phone signal after setting sail until you arrive in Ushuaia. Make the most of the time to disconnect and enjoy the views!
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner.
Onboard Ship
Embark on your adventure with a serene navigation through the pristine waters of the Almirantazgo Sound, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. As you glide through the tranquil waters, your knowledgeable guides will provide insights into the geological and ecological wonders of the region, including how life has evolved and adapted in the wake of retreating polar ice caps.
Your journey continues to Ainsworth Bay, a picturesque inlet framed by rugged mountains and ancient glaciers. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at the awe-inspiring Marinelli Glacier, its towering ice formations glistening in the sunlight. Your guide will delve into the glacier’s history and significance, offering a deeper understanding of this natural wonder.
Next, set course for the Tucker Islets, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. These remote islands are home to colonies of Magellan penguins and cormorants, whose playful antics and graceful flights add to the enchantment of the landscape. Board a Zodiac boat for a closer look at these fascinating creatures, providing ample opportunities for photography and observation.
*Please note that in September and April, this excursion may be replaced with a glacier-trekking expedition in Brookes Bay, offering an equally unforgettable experience amidst the icy wonders of the region.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner.
Onboard Ship
Embark on an unforgettable adventure today as you journey through the stunning landscapes of Tierra del Fuego. Your first stop is a scenic trek to a viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the majestic Pia Glacier. Stretching over 20 kilometers, this towering wall of ice is a breathtaking sight to behold, its sheer size and beauty leaving a lasting impression.
After marveling at the splendor of the Pia Glacier, continue your exploration with a cruise down the renowned ‘Glacier Alley’. As you glide along the tranquil waters, you’ll be treated to a mesmerizing display of natural wonders, with a series of majestic glaciers cascading down from the towering peaks of the surrounding mountains. Each glacier boasts its own unique features and characteristics, offering a glimpse into the timeless beauty of this remote wilderness.
Throughout your journey, keep your camera ready to capture the awe-inspiring sights and sounds of Glacier Alley, from the gleaming ice formations to the abundant wildlife that calls this pristine environment home.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner.
Onboard Ship
On day 4 of your cruise through Tierra del Fuego, you’ll navigate the Murray Channel and Nassau Bay, setting course for the renowned Cape Horn National Park. Nestled amidst the rugged landscapes, this remote wilderness is renowned for its pristine beauty and dramatic weather conditions. As you approach the park, prepare to be awed by its rugged coastline, towering cliffs, and windswept terrain.
Upon reaching Cape Horn National Park, you’ll have the opportunity to explore its remote walking trails and immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural surroundings. Keep an eye out for native wildlife, including seabirds soaring overhead and marine mammals surfacing in the surrounding waters.
Next, your journey takes you to historic Wulaia Bay, a site of great significance in the region’s history. It was here that famed naturalist Charles Darwin made landfall during his voyage on the HMS Beagle in 1833. This pristine bay was also home to indigenous Yamana Canoeists who settled in the area many years before the arrival of European explorers.
As you explore Wulaia Bay, take time to appreciate its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. Wander along the shores, soak in the panoramic views, and imagine the tales of exploration and adventure that have unfolded in this remote corner of the world. Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of early explorers or simply savoring the tranquility of nature, Wulaia Bay offers a truly unforgettable experience.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner.
Onboard Ship
As your Patagonian cruise journey comes to an end, you’ll arrive at Ushuaia, the capital of Tierra del Fuego and the southernmost city in the world. Disembark from the cruise at approximately 8:30 am where your private transfer will be waiting to take you to your hotel.
*Note that the time of disembarking may vary according to local weather conditions.
Private Full-Day Tour: Esmeralda Lagoon Hike
Once you’ve dropped your bags at the hotel, you’ll head out on today’s tour: a 9km/5.5mi trek to the stunning Esmeralda Lagoon, known for its vibrant color and the unique environmental impact caused by beavers in the landscape.
After approximately 2 hours of hiking, you’ll reach the shore of the Esmeralda Lagoon, where you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy lunch surrounded by the breathtaking scenery. The estimated return to the city around mid-afternoon, allowing ample time to appreciate the beauty of the lagoon and the surrounding landscape before heading back.
This excursion promises an unforgettable experience in nature, providing a glimpse into the stunning landscapes and unique ecosystems of the region. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply looking to immerse yourself in the beauty of Patagonia, the hike to the Esmeralda Lagoon is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Meals: Breakfast & Box Lunch.
Difficulty: Medium – suitable for those who enjoy exercise and are properly dressed for outdoor activities. However, it’s important to note that wet weather conditions may affect the experience of the hike.
Los Acebos Hotel
Shared Full-Day Tour: Lakes Off-Road
Today you’ll head out in a 4×4 to discover the rugged lands of the Fuegian Andes.
After departing from the hotel, the tour winds through a glacial valley encircled by snow-capped peaks until reaching the first stop at Garibaldi Pass, the sole road traversing the end of the Andes mountain range. From this vantage point high in the Andes, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking view of Lake Escondido, a hidden gem nestled at the valley’s base.
Continuing near the northern tip of Lake Escondido and veering off the paved road, the journey progresses along a network of old paths once cleared by a sawmill through the forest. These paths, impassable to conventional vehicles, lead closer to Lake Fagnano, Argentina’s fifth-largest lake.
Upon reaching the forest near Lake Fagnano’s coastline, you’ll have free time to explore and relish the serene surroundings while the guide prepares a hearty traditional Argentine barbeque. Enjoy the abundant feast in comfort at an exclusive refuge nestled in the natural environment, providing a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch.
Los Acebos Hotel
Shared Full-Day Tour: Gable Island & Penguin Colony with Canoeing
Departing from the hotel, you’ll head to the Lasiphashaj River to embark on an exciting adventure canoeing the Beagle Channel. Equipped with rubber boots, overpants, and lifejackets, we’ll paddle our way through the picturesque landscapes, spotting various seabirds and perhaps catching a glimpse of playful sealions along the way.
Once we reach the Beagle Channel, we’ll continue our journey by rowing towards the ranch. As we sail across the channel, the stunning scenery and abundant wildlife will captivate our senses, providing unforgettable moments of connection with nature.
Arriving at Harberton, we’ll switch to a motorboat and set off towards Martillo Island, where we’ll have the incredible opportunity to observe penguins in their natural habitat. From the comfort of the boat, we’ll witness these fascinating creatures in their breeding grounds, marveling at their playful antics and unique behaviors.
Our exploration continues as we navigate towards the highlight of the day: Gable Island. Here, a delicious lunch awaits us, accompanied by fine Patagonian wine, soft drinks, and mineral water. After indulging in a satisfying meal, we’ll embark on a guided hike to discover the island’s rich biodiversity, crossing over beaver dams and venturing through the forest to reach the shores of the Beagle Channel.
Following our hike, we’ll board the boat once again to return to Puerto Harberton and back to Ushuaia, reminiscing about the unforgettable experiences and cherished memories created throughout the day.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch.
Los Acebos Hotel
Private transfer
After breakfast at the hotel, your private transfer will take you to Ushuaia airport for your flight to the vibrant Argentinian capital, Buenos Aires! When you arrive, another transfer will collect you and drive you to your hotel in the dynamic Palermo Soho neighborhood, named for its resemblance to New York’s Soho district.
Take the afternoon to settle into your hotel and relax, or head out to explore this exciting city! As you traverse the cobbled streets of Buenos Aires, you’ll find yourself immersed in a vibrant tapestry of culture and history. From the charming neighborhoods of San Telmo and La Boca to the elegant avenues of Recoleta and Palermo, each corner reveals a new facet of the city’s rich heritage. The sultry rhythms of tango permeate the air and the architectural marvels showcase Buenos Aires’ eclectic blend of styles. From the grandeur of the Teatro Colon to the colorful facades of Caminito street, each building tells a story of the city’s past and present. With its cosmopolitan atmosphere and boundless energy, Buenos Aires truly lives up to its reputation as “The Paris of South America.” Soak in the sights, sounds, and flavors of this captivating city as you explore its hidden gems and iconic landmarks, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Meals: Breakfast.
Nuss Hotel
It’s your final day in Argentina! After breakfast at the hotel and checking out, make the most of the morning to explore the hotel’s surroundings. When the time comes to head to the airport, your transfer will collect you and your suitcases for your return flight home. Safe travels!
Meals: Breakfast.
2024-2025 SEASON RATES
Land Portion Pricing: Group of 2 people
Price per person
>> from USD 13,460 per person
* Please note that international and domestic flights are not included in this price. Price based on double occupancy.
**Kindly be advised that the rates provided might be subject to fluctuations based on specific dates, as well as to local political and economic variations.
***This itinerary is available September – April. Note that the specific tours may vary if traveling in September and April and according to weather conditions.
****The expedition ship on which you will travel depends on the date of departure from Punta Arenas.
Included
Not included
Ways we make this trip is sustainable:
Duration: 13 days
Price: from USD $13,460 / person
Customize This Trip
