Patagonia Wildlife Safari

This excursion lives up to the spirit of our program, placing the spotlight on Patagonia’s incredible wildlife — from birds and foxes to armadillos and more. We venture outside the national park toward Bahía El Bote, where we’ll explore the wetlands of Estancia Vega Castillo. This private conservation project is dedicated to protecting and promoting awareness of Patagonian fauna. Accessible and suitable for all types of travelers, this wildlife safari offers a unique chance to observe animals in their natural habitat while supporting local conservation efforts.

On this excursion, we’ll head to the shores of Pehoe Lake for a morning catamaran ride to the trailhead for the challenging trek to Valle Frances (French Valley). This steep trail leads to the very heart of the Paine Massif. How far we go depends on our group’s trekking rhythm. A faster pace will take us to the hanging bridge over the French River, located at the foot of the southeast face of the Massif, where we will be treated to fantastic views of the valley. Time permitting, we’ll continue to ascend towards the upper section of the valley where we will be able to marvel at the extensive mass of the area’s geological formations: Hoja (Blade), Máscara (Mask), Espada (Sword), Catedral (Cathedral), Aleta de Tiburón (Shark’s Fin) and the magnificent Fortaleza (Fortress). After our upward trek, we will picnic and relax. This adventure ends with a descent through an undulating terrain of mixed grassland and light forest which will take us to Refugio Paine Grande, back on the peaceful shores of Lake Pehoe. From here, we will board the catamaran for the trip back to Pudeto.

*This excursion varies throughout the season depending on the catamaran service connecting Pudeto and Refugio Pehoe. During September & May (low season) the catamaran may be out of operation or available less frequently. The excursion may be modified, returning through Las Carretas Trail (an extra 9.3 miles) and a van ride back to EcoCamp.

This full-day endeavor is a true bucket list hike and offers one of the most iconic and sought-after views in the world—the three distinctive granite spires in Patagonia known as the Torres del Paine. We set off from EcoCamp to join the uphill trail to Ascencio Valley toward the Towers’ eastern face. The hike takes us over wild rivers, a wind-swept pass and through a serene beech forest. The big challenge comes, however, as we climb the steep boulder-strewn moraine that leads us towards the Torres del Paine overlook or “Mirador Las Torres.” After a nearly 3,000-foot ascent, the Towers eventually come into full view, rising majestically before us, with the glacial lake visible below. We’ll enjoy lunch in this magnificent landscape and then backtrack along the same trail, enjoying a new perspective of the landscape.

The day begins with a drive across Torres del Paine National Park, admiring the view of Paine Grande and its snowy peaks, and Los Cuernos’ black, granite horn-like spires. We stop at some viewpoints on the way observing and photographing herds of guanacos, Andean condors, and interesting flora. As we walk along the shores of the stunning Lake Pehoe, we will see the furious Salto Grande waterfalls where the water from Lake Nordenskjold cascades down into Pehoe. From here, we drive up to Grey Lake where we’ll wander along the beach and enjoy a tasty lunch.  The spectacular finale of this excursion is a boat ride across the lake’s icy waters for an up-close view of the towering blue walls of Grey Glacier.

*The Grey Glacier boat trip is subject to availability and weather conditions, so please confirm your reservation on the day of your arrival. During low seasons (September – October & April) the boat trip requires a minimum of 15 passengers and may be canceled if there is not enough interest. If this is the case we will plan an alternative excursion in the park.

Follow the famed “W” trek route from EcoCamp toward Refugio Los Cuernos on a relaxed half-day hike to Laguna Inge. Cross the Ascencio River and walk through open Patagonian steppe beneath Mount Almirante Nieto, watching for native flora, wildlife, and Andean condors. At the lagoon, enjoy quiet views of the central Paine Massif; by continuing slightly farther, you can see Lake Nordenskjöld and Los Cuernos. Return to EcoCamp with the afternoon free to relax in the domes and enjoy the mountain scenery.

We’ll start our day at 8:00 am with breakfast at EcoCamp and a moment to prepare our Box Lunch before boarding our van at 9:00 am. Our ride takes us past the Lazo Weber Estancia where we’ll enter the National Park via Laguna Verde and begin our hike. The Lazo Weber Trail is packed with native flora and wildlife all with the mountainous Paine range on our right. The hike is rather easy and apart from a few hills, the trail remains rather flat. We’ll stop a moment to refuel by the magical Laguna Honda and enjoy the sights and sensations of the gorgeous landscape and fresh breeze. On our way, we will hike through one of the quietest forests in the national park, a fantastic opportunity to observe native trees such as the Lenga and the Coihue.

The rest of our hike takes us to a lookout point (El Toro Lookout) where we’ll be wowed with a 360 degree view of the Paine mountain range, the Patagonian Andes, and a suite of rivers and lakes (including the Paine, Grey, and Serrano Rivers, and Lake Toro, the largest in the region). An hour’s descent* towards Paine River will see us reunited with our van. But before we go back to EcoCamp, we’ll search for more animals to photograph and take a final moment to enjoy the scenery. At about 6:30 pm, we’ll arrive back at our “dome sweet dome”, ready to share in a tasty dinner and talk about our day hiking the Lazo Weber Trail.

*Please have in mind that the last part of the trail may be difficult for people that experiences vertigo, as there is a steep descent through gravel until we get to the van.

Note: If the weather is not good, an alternative excursion will be provided.

The journey begins at the enchanting Estancia Dos Elianas. At this rustic and beautiful Patagonia ranch we will be greeted with a brief but informative session on horseback riding to equip us with the knowledge and safety measures necessary for our day. We then embark on a thrilling 2-hour ride to the breathtaking Sierra Ballena, where nature’s splendor unfolds before our eyes. For lunch, we indulge in an authentic Chilean meal featuring succulent roasted lamb and an array of mouthwatering side dishes. Afterward, we further immerse ourselves in the rich traditions of Patagonia on a tour of the Estancia where we can watch the arrieros in action, tending to their flock, shearing wool, and gracefully riding horses. As the day nears its end, we gather for another delightful meal, savoring sopaipillas, jam, cheese, and bread, all lovingly-prepared using local ingredients. With hearts full of memories and stomachs content, we bid farewell to this mesmerizing haven.

*During September and May, this excursion will be replaced with Condor & Salto Grande Lookouts.

Discover the gentle, mostly flat Ancient Shores hike at Lake Sarmiento, where geological wonders meet Patagonian wildlife. Walk past striking folded rock formations, cross an isthmus connecting two lakes, and watch for guanacos and grebes. Visit a secluded bay with vivid waters and ancient thrombolites—living fossils shaped by time. Weather permitting, follow the 3.5 km Laguna Larga trail and savor lunch by the lakeshore for a truly immersive experience in Patagonia’s timeless beauty, blending science, wonder, and tranquility.

This full-day endeavor is a true bucket list hike and offers one of the most iconic and sought-after views in the world—the three distinctive granite spires in Patagonia known as the Torres del Paine. We set off from EcoCamp to join the uphill trail to Ascencio Valley toward the Towers’ eastern face. The hike takes us over wild rivers, a wind-swept pass and through a serene beech forest. The big challenge comes, however, as we climb the steep boulder-strewn moraine that leads us towards the Torres del Paine overlook or “Mirador Las Torres.” After a nearly 3,000-foot ascent, the Towers eventually come into full view, rising majestically before us, with the glacial lake visible below. We’ll enjoy lunch in this magnificent landscape and then backtrack along the same trail, enjoying a new perspective of the landscape.

Travel to eastern Torres del Paine for a one-way hike on the Aonikenk Trail between the Sarmiento and Laguna Amarga entrances. Cross open steppe with views of Lake Sarmiento, mountains, and rock formations while looking for guanacos, foxes, birds of prey, and signs of pumas. Visit a natural rock shelter with ancient cave paintings linked to Patagonia’s ancestral peoples, then continue through steppe and shrubland to Laguna Amarga. Return to EcoCamp with the afternoon free. This easy hike combines scenery, wildlife, and Indigenous history.

On this excursion, we’ll head to the shores of Pehoe Lake for a morning catamaran ride to the trailhead for the challenging trek to Valle Frances (French Valley). This steep trail leads to the very heart of the Paine Massif. How far we go depends on our group’s trekking rhythm. A faster pace will take us to the hanging bridge over the French River, located at the foot of the southeast face of the Massif, where we will be treated to fantastic views of the valley. Time permitting, we’ll continue to ascend towards the upper section of the valley where we will be able to marvel at the extensive mass of the area’s geological formations: Hoja (Blade), Máscara (Mask), Espada (Sword), Catedral (Cathedral), Aleta de Tiburón (Shark’s Fin) and the magnificent Fortaleza (Fortress). After our upward trek, we will picnic and relax. This adventure ends with a descent through an undulating terrain of mixed grassland and light forest which will take us to Refugio Paine Grande, back on the peaceful shores of Lake Pehoe. From here, we will board the catamaran for the trip back to Pudeto.

*This excursion varies throughout the season depending on the catamaran service connecting Pudeto and Refugio Pehoe. During September & May (low season) the catamaran may be out of operation or available less frequently. The excursion may be modified, returning through Las Carretas Trail (an extra 9.3 miles) and a van ride back to EcoCamp.

This full-day endeavor is a true bucket list hike and offers one of the most iconic and sought-after views in the world—the three distinctive granite spires in Patagonia known as the Torres del Paine. We set off from EcoCamp to join the uphill trail to Ascencio Valley toward the Towers’ eastern face. The hike takes us over wild rivers, a wind-swept pass and through a serene beech forest. The big challenge comes, however, as we climb the steep boulder-strewn moraine that leads us towards the Torres del Paine overlook or “Mirador Las Torres.” After a nearly 3,000-foot ascent, the Towers eventually come into full view, rising majestically before us, with the glacial lake visible below. We’ll enjoy lunch in this magnificent landscape and then backtrack along the same trail, enjoying a new perspective of the landscape.

The day begins with a drive across Torres del Paine National Park, admiring the view of Paine Grande and its snowy peaks, and Los Cuernos’ black, granite horn-like spires. We stop at some viewpoints on the way observing and photographing herds of guanacos, Andean condors, and interesting flora. As we walk along the shores of the stunning Lake Pehoe, we will see the furious Salto Grande waterfalls where the water from Lake Nordenskjold cascades down into Pehoe. From here, we drive up to Grey Lake where we’ll wander along the beach and enjoy a tasty lunch.  The spectacular finale of this excursion is a boat ride across the lake’s icy waters for an up-close view of the towering blue walls of Grey Glacier.

*The Grey Glacier boat trip is subject to availability and weather conditions, so please confirm your reservation on the day of your arrival. During low seasons (September – October & April) the boat trip requires a minimum of 15 passengers and may be canceled if there is not enough interest. If this is the case we will plan an alternative excursion in the park.

This full-day summit pursuit begins with a drive to Lake Grey where the huge peaks of the east come into view. This wind-swept rock monster standing tall at 5,246 feet is Cerro Ferrier, which makes a rewarding (but intense) hike that will offer us expansive and unique views of Lake Grey and Grey Glacier. If we’re lucky, we’ll get an up-close encounter with an huemul—the endangered South American deer that only exists in Patagonia. It’s a hike that offers wonderful biodiversity and a top-of-the-world perspective of Torres del Paine.

We’ll start our day at 8:00 am with breakfast at EcoCamp and a moment to prepare our Box Lunch before boarding our van at 9:00 am. Our ride takes us past the Lazo Weber Estancia where we’ll enter the National Park via Laguna Verde and begin our hike. The Lazo Weber Trail is packed with native flora and wildlife all with the mountainous Paine range on our right. The hike is rather easy and apart from a few hills, the trail remains rather flat. We’ll stop a moment to refuel by the magical Laguna Honda and enjoy the sights and sensations of the gorgeous landscape and fresh breeze. On our way, we will hike through one of the quietest forests in the national park, a fantastic opportunity to observe native trees such as the Lenga and the Coihue.

The rest of our hike takes us to a lookout point (El Toro Lookout) where we’ll be wowed with a 360 degree view of the Paine mountain range, the Patagonian Andes, and a suite of rivers and lakes (including the Paine, Grey, and Serrano Rivers, and Lake Toro, the largest in the region). An hour’s descent* towards Paine River will see us reunited with our van. But before we go back to EcoCamp, we’ll search for more animals to photograph and take a final moment to enjoy the scenery. At about 6:30 pm, we’ll arrive back at our “dome sweet dome”, ready to share in a tasty dinner and talk about our day hiking the Lazo Weber Trail.

*Please have in mind that the last part of the trail may be difficult for people that experiences vertigo, as there is a steep descent through gravel until we get to the van.

Note: If the weather is not good, an alternative excursion will be provided.

Discover the gentle, mostly flat Ancient Shores hike at Lake Sarmiento, where geological wonders meet Patagonian wildlife. Walk past striking folded rock formations, cross an isthmus connecting two lakes, and watch for guanacos and grebes. Visit a secluded bay with vivid waters and ancient thrombolites—living fossils shaped by time. Weather permitting, follow the 3.5 km Laguna Larga trail and savor lunch by the lakeshore for a truly immersive experience in Patagonia’s timeless beauty, blending science, wonder, and tranquility.

On this excursion, we’ll head to the shores of Pehoe Lake for a morning catamaran ride to the trailhead for the challenging trek to Valle Frances (French Valley). This steep trail leads to the very heart of the Paine Massif. How far we go depends on our group’s trekking rhythm. A faster pace will take us to the hanging bridge over the French River, located at the foot of the southeast face of the Massif, where we will be treated to fantastic views of the valley. Time permitting, we’ll continue to ascend towards the upper section of the valley where we will be able to marvel at the extensive mass of the area’s geological formations: Hoja (Blade), Máscara (Mask), Espada (Sword), Catedral (Cathedral), Aleta de Tiburón (Shark’s Fin) and the magnificent Fortaleza (Fortress). After our upward trek, we will picnic and relax. This adventure ends with a descent through an undulating terrain of mixed grassland and light forest which will take us to Refugio Paine Grande, back on the peaceful shores of Lake Pehoe. From here, we will board the catamaran for the trip back to Pudeto.

*This excursion varies throughout the season depending on the catamaran service connecting Pudeto and Refugio Pehoe. During September & May (low season) the catamaran may be out of operation or available less frequently. The excursion may be modified, returning through Las Carretas Trail (an extra 9.3 miles) and a van ride back to EcoCamp.

This full-day endeavor is a true bucket list hike and offers one of the most iconic and sought-after views in the world—the three distinctive granite spires in Patagonia known as the Torres del Paine. We set off from EcoCamp to join the uphill trail to Ascencio Valley toward the Towers’ eastern face. The hike takes us over wild rivers, a wind-swept pass and through a serene beech forest. The big challenge comes, however, as we climb the steep boulder-strewn moraine that leads us towards the Torres del Paine overlook or “Mirador Las Torres.” After a nearly 3,000-foot ascent, the Towers eventually come into full view, rising majestically before us, with the glacial lake visible below. We’ll enjoy lunch in this magnificent landscape and then backtrack along the same trail, enjoying a new perspective of the landscape.

After breakfast, we set off westward by van along the scenic southern edge of Nordenskjold Lake. Our first stop is a stunning overlook, where we admire the diverse landscapes and explore the area’s geomorphology, local flora, and fauna. Next, we visit the breathtaking Salto Grande waterfall, where water cascades from Nordenskjold Lake into Pehoe Lake. A short walk takes us to the Cuernos viewpoint, offering a sweeping panorama of the iconic Horns, ideal for observing the flora and their connection to the local wildlife. We then head to Pehoe Lake for lunch at Camping Pehoe, where bird songs create a serene atmosphere. After lunch, we embark on a two-hour trek to El Condor Lookout, ascending through steppe vegetation. At the top, we’re greeted with an expansive view of Pehoe Lake, the Paine River, and, on clear days, the Southern Patagonian ice fields. This awe-inspiring scene, with the towering Paine Mountains in the background, rejuvenates us before we return to EcoCamp by van.

Once we have enjoyed breakfast at EcoCamp, we will head towards the Laguna Azul sector, once we pass the lagoon, we will arrive near the Las Chinas River. There, gentle horses await us to begin a quiet ride, crossing serene rivers twice until we reach an impressive waterfall. Those who prefer not to join the parade have the option of relaxing in the barbecue area or enjoying a short walk with spectacular views of the Torres del Paine, following the banks of the Las Chinas River. We will conclude our adventure with a delicious barbecue that includes options of beef, lamb or hamburgers, always with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free alternatives to satisfy all tastes, before returning to EcoCamp for a well-deserved rest.

This full-day endeavor is a true bucket list hike and offers one of the most iconic and sought-after views in the world—the three distinctive granite spires in Patagonia known as the Torres del Paine. We set off from EcoCamp to join the uphill trail to Ascencio Valley toward the Towers’ eastern face. The hike takes us over wild rivers, a wind-swept pass and through a serene beech forest. The big challenge comes, however, as we climb the steep boulder-strewn moraine that leads us towards the Torres del Paine overlook or “Mirador Las Torres.” After a nearly 3,000-foot ascent, the Towers eventually come into full view, rising majestically before us, with the glacial lake visible below. We’ll enjoy lunch in this magnificent landscape and then backtrack along the same trail, enjoying a new perspective of the landscape.