Patagonia

El Fin Del Mundo

Patagonia, “the end of the world”, remains largely a vast remote wilderness stretching south into the Southern Ocean. This is a unique region of infinite variety, of dramatic mountains, sprawling glaciers and ice caps, of deep fjords, vast steppe lands, lush forests and abundant wildlife.

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In the far south of South America is Patagonia, a region so distant, yet very much part of our history. Magellan was there in 1520, discovering a safe passage to the Pacific and in 1832 Darwin worked towards his theory of Evolution in the cold waters of the Beagle Channel. During the 19th century settlers came and went and today Patagonia remains largely a vast remote wilderness where man has only a tenuous hold. As you travel you will sense the history, the pioneering spirit that “sort of wild west, north to Alaska” feel, where nature rules. Until recently much of this unique region saw few visitors due to its inaccessibility; today the opportunity is there for you to discover its hidden secrets.

While further north, enjoy the elegant cities of Santiago and Buenos Aires, walk in the shadow of perfect volcanic cones in the Chilean Lake District and wonder at the beauty of Iguazu Falls.

Itinerary Highlights

• The Southern Overland Route – “The Pacific to the Atlantic” From Puerto Montt, follow the Andean Mountain chain south, over high passes and along deep river valleys to reach the towering spires of Torres del Paine and on cross the vast Patagonian steppelands to the Argentinean Atlantic port town of Rio Gallegos. Enjoy the regions infinite variety; its pristine wilderness, mountains, lakes and glaciers. The remote frontier settlements and the expansive steppe lands that, dotted with historic estancias stretches eastward to the Atlantic.
• Perito Moreno Glacier - a massive wall of blue and white ice, 4 kms wide and 60 to 90 meters high, collapsing and exploding into the channel below, an awesome sight!
• Torres del Paine NP - dotted with turquoise lakes, tumbling streams and waterfalls, its vast ice fields and sprawling glaciers come within hands reach. The spectacular Torres, granite pillars rising some 2000 meters skyward above the Patagonian steppe land. This famous Park is home to a vast array of wildlife, including herds of guanacos and rheas, while overhead fly the majestic condors. Great walking.
• Tierra del Fuego – "The Land of Fire" at the tip of South America, was so called by early explorers because the native Yahgan Indians wore little clothing, rather kept warm by using fires, even in their canoes! The scenery is awesome, the Beagle Channel and mountain walks all just a stones throw from Ushuaia town.
• The Chilean Lake District - picturesque lakes and verdant forests dotted with perfect volcanic cones
• Santiago & Buenos Aires - the modern face of Sth America
• Iguazu Falls - possibly the most beautiful falls in the world, truly a natural wonder. Walk the wooden catwalks for close up views of the huge cataracts, a deafening and some what dampening experience.
• Puerto Montt - old world charm, a strong Nordic style
• Chiloe- stilt houses, shingle roofs, fascinating folklore and wonderful shell fish dinners

The Nature of the Trip

A true adventure into remote regions where accommodations and road conditions will vary considerably. There are some great walking opportunities, with both long and short options available. Transport essentially by charter vehicle, plus 5 internal flights. Timed for early summer, when the peaks are normally still snow covered, the vegetation lush and the steppe lands dotted with wildflowers.

Climate

In the northern cities it will be similar to New Zealand while in Iguazu it is likely to be jungle hot. South of Puerto Montt, anticipate temperatures between 0-18 degs centigrade and at times it may be rather windy, especially in the far south. As Patagonia experiences a wide range of weather conditions you must be prepared for anything; not surprising really as you will be travelling as far south as latitude 54.5 degrees, only 150 kms from Cape Horn!

The Party

The trip is suitable for active people of all ages. The trip will be limited to 13 plus leader but please note that a minimum of 11 is required for the trip to be viable.

Trip Data

Flights AKL/AKL (flight related taxes not included). Meals – all breakfasts plus some other meals to be advised, acc/transports/sights/activities. Price subject to flight cost achieved.

Please read our Frequently Asked Questions for important general information. For more specific details about this trip (including an itinerary) please Contact Us.