This soft adventure itinerary is for people who want to enjoy nature, but want to do so in comfort. This itinerary is focuses on the nature and culture of southern Patagonia. It takes in the most beautiful parts of Torres del Paine, but does not involve much hiking. We will visit a working Patagonian sheep farm, cruise Baja Ultima Esperanza and enjoy the spectacular mountain scenery and maybe watch seals and cormorants as we approach Monte Balmaceda. Inside Torres de Paine National Park we will visit glacier Serrano and Lake Pehoe ans well as Lake Nordenskjold and Lake Sarmiento - unforgetteble sights in what has to be Chile's most spectacular National Park.

Day 1: Punta Arenas - Estancia Rio Verde - Puerto Natales

Upon arrival at Punta Arenas Airport we will take a city tour to explore the historic and cultural highlights of Punta Arenas before heading out to Estancia Rio Verde, which is located mid-way between Punta Arenas and Puerto Natales. Estancia Rio Verde is a typical working Patagonian sheep ranch and you have the opportunity to learn about the farm, its history and daily life. We will then continue our journey to Puerto Natales. Overnight in Puerto Natales. (L)

Day 2: Puerto Natales - Bernardo O'Higgins National Park

After an early breakfast we head for the pier from where you will board a boat and cruise Baja Ultima Esperanza. Enjoy the spectacular scenery of mountains, native forests and Balmaceda Glacier. You may possibly spot seals and cormorants as we approach Monte Balmaceda. Overnight at Hostería Monte Balmaceda. (B, BL)

Day 3: Monte Balmaceda - Torres del Paine National Park

In the morning hike to a small lagoon to see drifting ice floes and glacier Serrano. In the afternoon you will board a zodiac and the trip continues upstream on Río Serrano. You will approach the Torres del Paine National Park, where you can enjoy a spectacular view of the Southern Ice Field. You will then disembark the zodiac boat for a short walk past the Victoria Waterfalls to a second zodiac that will take you all the way to the national park (luggage is transported by staff). Upon arrival at Torres del Paine National Park you will be transferred to your hotel. Overnight at Torres del Paine National Park. (B,L)

Day 4: Torres del Paine National Park

After breakfast you and your guide will explore the impressive Torres del Paine National Park. You will visit Lake Pehoé, Lake Nordenskjöld, Lake Sarmiento, and the Salto Grande, with awesome views of the Paine Mountain Range and Torres del Paine. Overnight at Torres del Paine NP. (B,BL)

Day 5: Torres del Paine NP - Punta Arenas

After breakfast you will depart for Punta Arenas Airport with intermediate scenic stops. Lunch will be served at a restaurant en route. (B,L)

Rates for 2008/2009 - per person

Rates may vary due to currency exchange rate fluctuations.

Included:

4 overnights with breakfast, 3 lunches, 2 lunch box, transfers and excursions with driver and bilingual guide, entrance fees. The navigations are together with other travellers, so the service is not completely in private!

Not Included:

international or national airfares, airport taxes, travel insurance of any kind, meals not mentioned in the itinerary, expenses of a personal nature, tips or gratuities

• Big suitcases cannot be transported by zodiac (only smaller sized ones or flexible bags). Rest of the luggage will be transported by land.
• Due to weather conditions itinerary can change without previous notice. Additional costs which might occur have to be covered by the clients.
• If Hostería Monte Balmaceda is fully booked or can not confirm bookings, the boat trip on day 02 goes directly to National Park Torres del Paine, and clients spend one night at Hostería Tyndall.
• Operates daily except Thursday, from November to March

For further information and booking inquiries please send us and e-mail.

Hotels used for this Itinerary

Hotel Indigo Patagonia**** This recently opened hotel is situated on the ocean front of Puerto Natales. It is a modern style building offering 23 standard rooms and 6 luxury suites. Most rooms offer splendid views over 'Last Hope' Sound or 'Cerro Dorotea'. Among its general facilities is a restaurant located in a charming old style building covered with wooden tiles. It also has a lounge bar as well as a Souvenir Shop, WiFi Internet, a laundry service. In the loft there is a Spa with sauna and massage service, while outside guests can enjoy the magnificent views from three outdoor Jacuzzis.

Hostería Monte Balmaceda** Hostería Monte Balmaceda is situated in the National Park Bernardo O'Higgins on the Serrano river outlet, offering amazing views of Serrano Glacier. It is a rustic hostería, constructed with native woods and a homely atmosphere. It features 16 rooms with private bathrooms and a wonderful view of the glacier, a restaurant / grill room, campsites with bathrooms, motor-boats, Horseback Riding and excursions. Facilities like air conditioning, laundry, recreation area, bilingual reception, cafeteria and room service are available. Important note: Hostería Monte Balmaceda is only accessible by boat (e.g. from Puerto Natales) or by Zodiac (e.g. from within Torres del Paine National Park).

Hostería Lago Grey*** Hostería Lago Grey is situated in the lush, green western region of Torres del Paine National Park. Surrounded by dense southern beech forest, the hostería offers views of the Paine horns and its glacier landscape. It is built in modern Patagonian style, offering 30 comfortable rooms, all equipped with heating and private bathroom. Additional facilities include a restaurant, bar, cafeteria, laundry, lounge area, conference hall, photocopy, fax, Internet access (front desk), and room service.