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 - Torres del Paine National Park

After an early breakfast you will be taken to the pier to board a small ship and navigate the Ultima Esperanza Bay. Enjoy the spectacular scenery of mountains and native forests and the Balmaceda Glacier. You may possibly spot seals, cormorants and condors, when the boat approaches Monte Balmaceda. Arriving at Monte Balmaceda you will be able to do a short hike to the imposing Rio Serrano Glacier and its lagoon; before enjoying a hearty home-made lunch at Monte Balmaceda. After lunch the trip continues for approximately 1 hour upstream the Rio Serrano aboard a modern and safe zodiac boat. You will approach the Torres del Paine National Park, where you can enjoy the spectacular view of the Southern Ice Field and the Paine Mountain Range. 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 in approximately 10 minutes. Upon arrival at Villa Serrano at Torres del Paine National Park, you will be transferred to your nearby hotel. Overnight at Torres del Paine National Park. (B, L)

Day 3: Torres del Paine National Park

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

Day 4: Torres del Paine National Park

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 2010/2011 - per person

Rates may vary due to currency exchange rate fluctuations.

Included:

3 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.
• Itinerary may be modified due to weather conditions without prior notice. Additional costs may therefore be incurred, which have to be covered by tourists.
• 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 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.