Before your trip
Passports, visas & vaccinations
You’ll need a passport that’s valid for at least six months beyond the date of your departure from Chile & Argentina. We also need your passport details to book your travel arrangmements. Please provide us with your passport details as swiftly as possible, ensuring that they are 100% accurate (passport name, number, nationality and expiry date).
If you’re a citizen of USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and most Western European countries you won’t need a visa to enter Chile or Argentina for stays of up to 90 days. You’ll be issued with a 90-day tourist card upon arrival - don’t lose this card (often a small sheet of paper) as you’ll be asked for it at some hotels and Refugio’s, and when you depart the country. If you’re a citizen of another country please check with your nearest Chilean Embassy and Argentinean Embassy about entry requirements, and if you need any assistance let us know.
For travel to Chile & Argentina we recommend getting vaccinated against Hepatitis A, Tetanus and Typhoid at least two months before your trip starts.
For the most up-to-date recommendations please check with your doctor or travel clinic, and always go with their recommendations, as these can often change. There are no official vaccination requirements for entry, however if you’re entering from a country that is considered to be at risk from Yellow Fever, or when you go home afterwards, you may be required to show a certificate of vaccination (obtained from your doctor prior to travel).
To help you prepare for this trip, we’ve gathered some useful information together! Some things, such as flights and insurance will be relevant sooner; and some things such as gear will be relevant closer to departure.
Your Trip Information
You’ve booked!
What’s next?
Within a week of booking:
pay deposit, confirm your contract and log into your Travel Wallet Sooner rather than later:
check passport, arrange travel insurance and book your flights, start your training regime and get fit!
Four months before your trip:
if sending a cheque, please mail it now
Three months before your trip:
full payment is due, complete extra items*
Two months before your trip:
arrange vaccinations
Four weeks before your trip: check for any missing details for your trip Two weeks before your trip:
reconfirm your flights, print your final trip information*
Travel Insurance
As an Active Adventures South America traveller, you’re required to have travel insurance for your trip – please be aware some insurance companies require insurance to be purchased within 14 days of deposit payment (to be eligible for Pre-existing medical cover). We recommend a comprehensive travel insurance policy that includes medical cover, emergency repatriation, trip cancellation and other travel mishaps (flight cancellations or delays, trip interruption, theft or loss of luggage and personal effects).
We highly recommend World Nomads as they offer competitive travel insurance policies that suit our type of travel with the minimum requirements for medical cover and emergency repatriation, as well as trip cancellation cover. We recommend keeping all travel papers (invoices, receipts, police reports etc.) when you travel in case you need them later to support an insurance claim.
Travel agencies
We recommend booking your flights through our preferred travel partner – Fuzion Travel. They’re our experienced hand-picked experts in travel, passionate about what they do, and will tailor-make your flight itinerary to match your Active Adventures tour.
Get in touch with them directly by email – active@
fuziontravel.co.nz or on 1 800 TRAVEL. Let them know your preferred travel plans, including any stopovers or extra nights’ accommodation, and they’ll put everything in place for you. They offer a total travel solution and five star service that you’ll want to tell your friends about!
Extra hotel accommodation
We can arrange additional hotel accommodation for you at one of our preferred hotels if you plan to arrive early or leave later than your trip end date. The best way to make a booking is to request the hotel, dates and room types you require through your Travel details Step 3 Page.
Flights
International flights
The most direct international routes to and from Punta Arenas, Bariloche and El Calafate, are via national capitals Santiago and Buenos Aires.
From Canada: Air Canada, American Airlines and Delta all have connections via Toronto.
From Europe/UK: Latam and Iberia offer direct flights to Santiago from Madrid, while Air France, Lufthansa, Varig and Aerolineas Argentinas offer direct flights to Buenos Aires from Paris, Madrid and Frankfurt.
From USA: Connections to Santiago and Buenos Aires are usually via Miami, New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Dallas or Chicago.
Domestic flights
We recommend booking your domestic connections within Argentina and Chile as part of your international fare. It’s more economical that way, and can make life a bit easier if your international flight is delayed. There are a couple of airlines available for getting between Santiago & Punta Arenas, or El Calafate and Bariloche & Buenos Aires. Latam Chile (www.latam.com) departs several times a day and Sky Airline (www.skyairlinechile.com) offer a couple of flights a day.
In Argentina, LADE (www.lade.com.ar) and Aerolineas Argentinas (www.aerolineas.com) are also options, but be wary of tight connections on Aerolineas Argentinas as they have a reputation for flight delays.
NOTE: Buenos Aires has two main airports and it’s very common that domestic flights go into one and international flights depart from the other (like JFK and LaGuardia in New York). If this is the case with your flights, you’ll need to arrange transport and allow time for this between the two airports, and you can can prebook your transfer here.
It’s really important to collect and re-check your baggage when you fly through Santiago on your way to Punta Arenas, or Buenos Aires on your way to Bariloche. Your first entry point into either Chile or Argentina you will need to go through customs with your luggage, after which you can then recheck your bags for your domestic flights and continue on. Often the airlines will say your bags are checked right through to your final destination, but in our experience this is not always true!
Airline luggage
We recommend packing valuable and essential items in your carry-on luggage (change of clothing, medication etc.) in case your luggage is delayed, and keeping your hiking boots at the top on your main piece of luggage – or wearing these to save weight.
Arriving and departing Patagonia
Chile
The Chilean Government has a reciprocal agreement with Australia so for Australian passport holders, you’ll need to pay US$117 on arrival. This must be paid in cash on arrival into Santiago airport, and the one-time fee is good for the life of a travelers’ passport. You may pay this fee at the airport counter (to the left of Customs) via credit card or US$
cash. There is no fee charged if you’re arriving into Chile by any other means, and holders of other passports aren’t charged anything, in accordance with their agreements.
Argentina
We’ll be travelling by bus from Chile to Argentina in the middle of our ‘Condor’ trip; start in Argentina for our ‘Puma’
trip, and return to Argentina by boat & bus in the middle of our ‘Puma’ trip.
IMPORTANT You’re issued with your immigration arrivals receipt on arrival. It’s really important to keep this safe as you’ll need it when you depart Chile. Failure to submit this card upon departure may result in delays until a replacement is obtained.
Customs and immigration
Customs and Immigration are swift and efficient in Chile and Argentina. You’ll have your passport and return air tickets checked before being issued with your 90-day tourist visa (see Visas above). Your luggage may be checked for fruit, dairy and organic products – it’s best to declare anything.
Punta Arenas airport transport
Punta Arenas’ Pres Ibanez Airport (PUQ) is 21km/13miles north of central Punta Arenas. The most economical transport is the safe, reliable shuttle buses wait outside the terminal to greet each flight 2,500-3,000 Pesos (~US$4-5) one-way per person. Taxis are more convenient though are more expensive 7,000-10,000 Pesos one-way (~US$15).
El Calafate airport transport
Comandante Armando Tola International Airport (FTE) is 21km/13miles east of central El Calafate. If you’re planning on staying in El Calafate after your trip, your hotel can arrange either a shuttle bus or a private taxi to take you there.
Bariloche airport transport
San Carlos de Bariloche Airport (BRC) is 13km/8miles/20 minutes drive from central Bariloche and you can easily arrange either a taxi or a minivan shuttle to get to your hotel. A taxi will cost around AR$200 (~US$12), and you can arrange this when you arrive, from the official taxi counter located in the arrivals hall. This can be a very quiet airport, so bring sufficient cash with you as you may not be able to get money from an ATM or change at the airport.
What if there’s an emergency?
Flight delays
If your flight is delayed, or you can’t travel for any reason and aren’t able to get to your pre-arranged meeting place on time, please let us know as soon as you can. Flight delays and missed connections do happen from time to time so we’re pretty accustomed to dealing with them. It’s all part of the whole travel experience, so if it does happen to you, we’ll help you get to where you need to be. You’ll need to cover any additional costs incurred by your flight delay, so keep all receipts in case you need them later to support an insurance claim. If you can, we recommend arriving earlier to be on the safe side.
Luggage delays
As with flight delays, losing your luggage does happen from time to time and we can easily help you deal with this.
If your luggage doesn’t arrive with you for any reason, you’ll be directed to the airport baggage claim service where the relevant details will be taken down – please provide your trip leader’s phone number as your contact number.
You’ll be given a luggage tracking number and the bags should eventually be delivered to your hotel. If your luggage hasn’t arrived by the time your trip starts, give your Active Adventures South America trip leader the tracking number and they can ensure your luggage gets to the right place.
They’ll also help you buy whatever you need until your luggage arrives too!
Emergency contacts
Please call the following numbers depending on your situation: Less than 24 hours before your trip: Your Active Adventures South America trip leader - their details will be confirmed on your Travel details Trip Summary Step 6 page two weeks before your trip begins.
More than 24 hours before your trip: Client Services Team, who’re based in New Zealand. Phone +64 27 839 6538.
Non-emergency contacts
For non-emergencies, please contact our New Zealand office using the details below. If the office is unattended (outside of New Zealand business hours), please leave a message so we can pick it up and respond as soon as we can.
Free phone: 1 800 661 9073 (USA, Canada & Australia) Free phone: 0808 234 7780 (UK)
Free phone: 0800 234 726 (NZ) Worldwide: +64 3 450 0414, ext 1 Email: [email protected]
The + symbol stands for the international prefix of the country you’re calling from. Example: Australia: 0011; NZ:/
UK: 00; USA: 011
Your Active Adventures South America Trip
Your group
We get a real variety of people on our trips and they all seem to have one thing in common – a love of the outdoors!
Our group sizes range from a minimum of four people to a maximum of fourteen people, generally with a mix of singles, couples and friends.
Your trip leader
Your trip will be operated by an Active Adventures South America trip leader, along with several local specialist guides. Your trip leader will ensure you’re well informed about the country and region you’re in, as well as ensuring everything runs smoothly - from activities and accommodations to restaurants and transport. The local guides are there to help you learn more about each unique area you visit throughout the trip. While our trip leaders are very talented, they’re not mind readers – so if something’s up, please let them know.
Rooming
Our trip fares are based on a twin share rate (two people per room), so we’ll team you up with someone of the same gender to share with if you’re on your own, or of course you can share with your travel partner. Those travelling with a partner will have a choice of either twin-share (one room, two single beds) or double-share (one room, one double/
queen bed). Triple sharing is always an option if you prefer, though it may not be available everywhere we stay. Just let us know and we’ll see what we can do!
Time in New Zealand
New Zealand Standard Time (NZST) is the time zone for New Zealand, it’s 12 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).
Single room option
If you’d prefer not to share a room, we have a single supplement option for an additional fare. If you purchase a single supplement, we’ll arrange for you to have your own room throughout the trip. In certain places, single rooms aren’t available and the price of the single supplement takes this into account.
Bathrooms
Generally speaking, in most places you stay, you’ll have an ensuite or private bathroom attached to your bedroom.
In certain places, ie the refugio’s, there may be a large bathroom with private cubicles which is shared by everyone at that accommodation. When using public facilities, ask for the banos/bathroom and remember that M is for mujeres/
women and H is for hombres/men!
Dietary requirements
If you have any particular dietary requirements, please let us know. We’re accustomed to working with the following diets and if you have any other dietary needs or allergies, let us know so we can plan in advance:
• omnivore (I eat red and white meat, pork, chicken, fish, dairy, fruit and vegetables)
• no red meat (I eat chicken, fish, dairy, fruit and vegetables)
• no pork (I eat beef, lamb, chicken and fish)
• fishatarian (I eat fish, dairy, fruit and vegetables)
• vegetarian (I eat dairy, fruit and vegetables)
• vegan (I eat fruit and vegetables, no dairy or animal products)
• gluten intolerant (I can’t eat wheat, rye, barley or oats)
• lactose intolerant (I can’t eat dairy products)
Food
While Patagonian cuisine isn’t particularly spicy or adventurous, it makes up for any lack through the sheer abundance and variety of produce, seafood, wine and meats - especially beef.
Vegetarians should ask for un plato vegetarian (a vegetarian dish) or try saying ‘soy vegetariano/a’ (I’m a vegetarian) just to be on the safe side. Vegan choices may be limited but we’ll do our best to help find things you may like. Fruit is very limited due to our locations and not always available, and breakfast meals are usually quite basic.
Dinner meals are often very late in the evening too as per the local customs.
Vegan and Gluten-free Dietary supplements – Condor:
If you’re gluten-free or vegan, please bring some of your own protein bars or protein shakes with you, to get enough protein during the 4-days and nights we spend hiking the W-trek. The only bars we have in South America are cereal and sugar based, and offer very little protein. Being gluten- free, vegan or vegetarian is not common in South America, so sometimes the veggie option at the 4 Refugio’s could just be grilled vegetables and rice, and it’s hard to hike the next day just with a simple meal like that.
NOTE: For customs entry, please make sure they are still packaged and unopened.
Water
Tap water in Chile & Argentina is not safe to drink, or brush your teeth in, so you’ll need to use filtered water instead, which we’ll provide, and treat ice and salads with caution.
You can also use hand sanitiser, iodine or water purification tablets if you prefer.
Active Adventures is promoting ‘Travellers Against Plastic’
pledge, so to reduce single use plastic we encourage you to bring a durable water bottle to refill instead of purchasing bottled water.
Medical issues, allergies and other information
If you have a medical issue, allergy or recent injury, please let us know – we’ll be sure this information gets passed on to your guide discreetly. If you have an allergy, please also let us know whether your allergy is mild or severe (severe being an anaphylactic reaction) so we can be prepared.
We love knowing about anniversaries, honeymoons and birthdays too!
Transport
Your trip fare includes all ground transport, except some airport transfers and if you arrive or depart a day or two either side of the trip. When we’re not on the trails you’ll be transported in vehicles with air conditioning, seat belts and comfy seats!
Money
Currency
Chile’s currency is the Chilean peso (CLP) and Argentina’s currency is the Argentinean peso (ARS), however both countries use the dollar symbol ($) to show prices in their local currency. For an up-to-date currency conversion please see: www.xe.com/uc
Forms of payment
We recommend you bring a variety of payment options with you – localy currency, an ATM card, and a credit card or two.
Cash: Local currency can always be obtained at the airport upon arrival, and a small amount is useful when you arrive.
Changing money: The best currency for exchange is the US dollar, with the euro being increasingly accepted. If bringing US dollars to Peru, only bring brand new – straight off the printing press -good quality bills of US$20. The best place to change money is at a Casa de Cambio (foreign exchange bureau), they’re faster with longer opening hours and better rates. Hotels will only change US$.
ATM/Debit cards: ATMs are available in most towns in Patagonia, although the ones in smaller towns are less reliable – for example it’s hard to get money out of ATM’s in El Chalten and El Calafate, especially in peak season and most ATM’s have a limit of US$200 per withdrawal also. If your card has a pin number AND a ‘Cirrus’ or ‘Plus’ symbol on it, you’ll be able to withdraw peruvian soles from your account. For safety, withdraw money during the day from ATMs inside banks.
Credit cards: Visa and MasterCard are most widely used except in Llancahue (Northern Patagonia) where they’ll not take Visa, although AMEX may also be accepted
You should notify your bank you’ll be using your cards in Chile & Argentina before leaving home and be aware your bank may charge a fee for each foreign ATM transaction.
Spending money
Your trip fare includes all transportation, guiding, meals and activities (except any optional activities). We recommend bringing around US$300-400 with you to change into Soles once you arrive, and have the option to withdraw more if required. A meal on your day off may cost US$15- 20/mainper main course and US$8/dessert with a drink costing between US$8-9/beer, ~US$1/soft drink. If you’re keen to take part in an extra actvity during your free time, expect to pay about US$60-90 per half day activity.
Tipping
Most people do choose to tip their Active Adventures Trip leader at the end of an awesome trip. US$100 per person per Trip leader (and US$10 each per day for your W-trek guide if you’re going to Southern Patagonia) seems to be the norm, however less, more or not at all is also fine too.
During your Active Adventures trip, your trip leader will take care of all included restaurants and service tips for you.
For other restaurants or services during your time in Peru, 5-10% is a typical gratuity amount.
About Patagonia
Altitude
Altitude isn’t really a factor in Patagonia as we only get up to around 1,100 metres (3,600 feet).
Language
Spanish is the main language of Chile & Argentina. English is spoken in some hotels, airports and tourist areas but not everywhere, particularly not on Amantani Island where they speak largely Quechua. Your Active Adventures South America trip leader will be there to translate for you in most scenarios though it’s worth learning a few basic Spanish phrases before hand! We recommend Lonely Planet’s Latin American Spanish Phrasebook, or the Quechua Phrasebook if you’re really keen!
Flexibility
When it comes to adventure travel, life is always an adventure! Chile & Argertina are both developing nations and we won’t tell you everything in South America runs like clockwork. What we can tell you is we’re experienced adventure travel leaders, and we know how to keep things operating smoothly, even when conditions are challenging.
That’s why we’re here! You’ll find your trip even more enjoyable if you remember to bring flexibility, an open mind and a sense of humour with you.
Safety
While Chile & Argentina are both pretty safe places, we recommend taking the same precautions you would anywhere else - just to be on the safe side! Pickpockets occasionally operate in areas where visitors are found so we suggest you leave any valuables you don’t need with you in the hotel safe (e.g. passports and credit cards). A copy of your passport and any valuables you do need with you should be kept in a passport wallet under your clothes and a small amount of money in your pocket/purse. It’s also a good idea to take a taxi after dark rather than walking.
Drones
Very occassionally we get requests to bring drone’s along on our trips though as they’re aerial machines. It’s fine to fly them around your own property or in places like at the beach, though they’re not permitted in public places such as conservation land, or over other people’s property without their express permission. All of our hiking/snorkelling/biking/
kayaking activities are on conservation land so this means you wouldn’t be able to use it on any activity during your trip.
It’s perfectly OK to use hand-held cameras and video equipment at any time throughout your travels, so we suggest bringing a good camera along and leaving your drone at home.
Time in Peru
For the majority of the trekking season, Chile and Argentina are three hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) - the equivalent of USA Eastern Time
WiFi
WiFi is available at some hotels if bringing a smart phone or iPad, though the connection can sometimes be a bit sporadic. Internet cafes are readily available, economical (~US$0.60 per hour for high speed access), and have long opening hours, so we don’t recommend bringing a laptop - although the Spanish keyboard can sometimes be a little challenging!
Electricity
Electricity is available in most places in Patagonia – even in the Refugio’s on the W-Trek. Chile & Argentina both operate on a 220V AC system, and Chile uses Type C while Argentina uses Type I, both shown here. If your country doesn’t use a 220V AC system (e.g. USA = 110V AC) you may need some kind of converter, however many appliances have inbuilt ones these days (e.g. iPods, laptops and camera chargers). If in doubt, ask at your nearest camera or electrical store before you leave home.
Weather
Patagonia’s seasons mirror those of the Southern Hemisphere, so the best time to visit is in the summer between November and April. Late December to early March marks the Patagonian summer. Daytime temperature ranges from 70-80°F (21-26°C) in the sun.
Night time temperatures in Punta Arenas range in the 40’s F (4-7°C) and on the trek can dip into the 30’s F (-1°C).
Please note tempestuous weather is normal for this region in any season. With Patagonia so near to the southern Patagonian ice cap and two big oceans, you’ll likely see rain, wind, a bit of snow, cold and hot weather.
Starting and ending your trip
Trip start details
Your ‘Chilean Condor’ trip starts in Punta Arenas, Chile and we’ll meet you on the day your trip starts at:
Hotel Rey don Felipe, 6pm
Please meet us in the lobby for a pre-trip briefing and our first dinner together! Hotel Rey don Felipe is located at Armando Sanhueza 965 (phone +56-61-229-5000).
Flight arrival details
If you’re flying in on the same day that your trip starts, we recommend flights arriving by 4pm.. For more information on booking flights, please refer above on Page 2.
NOTE: It’s really important to collect and re-check your baggage when you fly through Santiago on your way to Punta Arenas (if that’s the route you’re taking), go through to customs at your first point of entry into Chile. Often the airlines will say your bags are checked right through to Punta Arenas, but in our experience this is not always true!
Trip end details
Your ‘Chilean Condor’ trip ends in Puerto Varas, Chile and we have two drop off locations for you to choose from:
• Puerto Montt Airport, any time
If you’re flying out today we’re happy to transfer you back to the airport any time that suits.
Flight departure details
If you’re flying out of Puerto Montt Airport, you can arrange a flight that departs after breakfast on this last day.
Extra time in Punta Arenas
If you have extra time before your ‘Condor’ trip there is plenty to see and do. Punta Arenas itself is fairly interesting;
there are small random museums everywhere, there are statues and public artworks all over the place, the most interesting cemetery I have ever seen is well worth a wander through, and a short hike to a popular viewpoint overlooks the city and gives a great outlook of Magellan Strait and far across to Fire Island / Tierra del Fuego. A full day tour over to Tierra del Fuego to see the King Penguins that are nesting at Useless bay, you can arrange this with Parque Pinguino or up to a day or so prior to booking, through your hotel reception (King Penguins activities can only be arranged from your hotel reception once you’re in Punta Arenas).
Trip Notes – Chilean Condor
General Information
Fitness
As an Activity Level 3-4 trip, you’ll need a solid level of fitness for the ‘Chilean Condor’ trip. It’s one of our more adventurous trips, and typically, hikes on the ‘Condor’ trip range between three and six hours to complete, with longer hikes on the W-trek. So get out there with a daypack on and train so you’ll be ready to join us! While you don’t have to be extremely fit, you should be in the habit of doing regular aerobic exercise, ideally involving some up hills and down hills and carrying a pack! With some preparation before your trip begins, you’ll enjoy the active and outdoor nature of your trip all the more. Please head to our Fitness Guide for great tips on how to prepare along with a workout plan!
Accommodation
We’ve selected the accommodation on the ‘Chilean Condor’
trip for the unique character and adventuresome feel – this trip is not designed as a tour of the fanciest hotels in Patagonia. We prefer to stay in quaint, comfortable B&B’s and lodges. Things get a little more rustic when we head to the Refugio’s during the W-trek(s) and it’s all part of a truly amazing experience.
Laundry
We recommend bringing enough clothing to only have to do laundry once during your ‘Chilean Condor’ trip, and the best time will be after your W-trek once we return to Puerto Natales. While there maybe opportunities to do laundry elsewhere if need be they won’t be as convenient.
Self-service laundries are rare, so you’ll probably need to use on-site hotel laundry services or off-site lavanderias, though we recommend hand-washing technical fabrics yourself.
General Equipment & Gear
Trip luggage & daypack
You’ll need one piece of luggage on your ‘Chilean Condor’
trip, plus a sturdy daypack for your days out on the trail.
Your main piece of luggage can be anything from a backpack, to a sports bag with wheels or a suitcase.
You’ll need a good quality trekking daypack 25-30 litres (2000 cubic inches) to use throughout the days on the trails.
It must be well fitting with supportive shoulder straps, a rain cover and a waist-strap. Look for a daypack with wide straps too, as these are generally the most comfortable.
It should be large enough for your water bottle, raincoat, fleece, camera and personal items.
Hiking boots
You’ll need a good, comfortable, well worn-in pair of hiking boots for your ‘Chilean Condor’ trip as you’ll use them most days. We recommend boots with good ankle support and a solid tread/sole. Here’s a wee youtube video we’ve put together on what boots you’ll need to bring along.
Rain jacket and pants
You’ll need to carry a waterproof, windproof and breathable rain jacket and some rain pants for your ‘Chilean Condor’
trip. A poncho won’t cut the mustard! You need a jacket that’s not too light (it won’t keep you dry properly and you’ll get cold), not too heavy (or you’ll get too hot while hiking) and with a decent hood. If you don’t already own a waterproof jacket, we recommend chatting to your local outdoor retailer and getting equipped.
Hiking poles
We strongly recommend bringing one or two telescopic hiking poles on your trip, or renting some from us. Poles help support your knees on ascents and descents, give greater support when carrying a trekking pack on the W-trek, and assist with balance when going over uneven terrain.
Group equipment
On the kayaking segment you’ll be fitted out in modern double plastic sea kayaks, with a wetsuit, paddle jacket, life jacket, and neoprene hand covers (pogies) for warmth.
We also provide dry bags for your camera, and have a full safety briefing before heading out with our experienced kayak guides.
For the cycling segment you’ll be provided with a durable, frontsuspension mountain bike (with flat pedals) and a helmet for our off-road-based ride. Your specialist activity guides will have all relevant safety gear.
Multi-day Options
During your ‘Chilean Condor’ trip you need to choose from one of two multiday options. If you haven’t already decided on your preferred option, please read your Condor itinerary and the following information and let us know right away!
There’s also a minimum and maximum on each option.
We always try our best to confirm everyone’s preferred option and they’re all fantastic, so we’re sure you’ll have an amazing time whichever one you do! You have the choice of the following two options.
• Option A - W-Trek Hiking
• Option B - W-Trek Experience [Additional cost per person – listed in Travel details]
Be sure to let us know your trail preference as soon as possible if you haven’t already done so! Also, if you’ve never done a multiday trek before and would like some expert advice on how to prepare for one, get in touch!
Option A: W-trek Hiking
The four day W-trek through Torres del Paine National Park will definitely be one of the most memorable aspects of your trip! This amazing trek will take you past sheer granite peaks, snow-clad mountains, glacial lakes and through thick Magellanic forest. While it might be a bit of a challenge, the rewards are well and truly worth it! The trek is close to sea level so you won’t be dealing with any altitude factors. The trail is 64 kilometres (40 miles) in total length and we average around 6 hours or 16 kilometres (10 miles) per day. The greatest elevation reached on the W-trek is 1200 metres (3900 feet) at the highest point in the French Valley - you can go as high as you like. The trails
Refugio’s
During the W-trek in Torres del Paine National Park you’ll be spending four nights in rustic mountain lodges, known locally as refugio’s. Each refugio sleeps 30-50 people with shared bunk rooms of up to 6-10 people, shared bathrooms and hot showers. You’ll have a mattress with a pillow and you’ll use your sleeping bag – if you’re a light sleeper we recommend ear plugs and an eye mask to get a good night’s sleep, it’s all part of the adventure! Meals are served in the restaurant and there’s a bar that accepts pesos, dollars, euros and credit cards if you fancy a drink.
The refugio’s fill up on a first come, first serve basis and we manage our hiking days to ensure we arrive at our accommodation in good time to secure a bed. On occasion though, it may be the case the refugio is full, and in this instance we’ll camp out for the night in this amazing location. We’ll pitch your tent near the refugio so you’ll still have full use of the facilities.
NOTE: Sometimes the generators are turned off overnight therefore if you’re bringing a CPAP, it will need to be battery operated.
Trekking pack & Sleeping bag
You’ll need a good quality trekking pack with well-fitting shoulder and waist straps for the W-trek. Your pack should have a volume of ~60 litres (3500 cubic inches), large enough to fit your sleeping bag inside along with all your multi-day gear. You’ll also need a nice warm sleeping bag for the W-trek, something rated down to at least ~0°C (32°F) is ideal. The refugio’s that we stay in have only basic heating facilities. You’ll only be carrying the gear needed
Water / Hydration
Trekking is thirsty work so you’ll likely stay better hydrated if you’re using a bladder (ie. camelback). The streams are 100% pure water and these are drinkable so you might also want to bring along a small nelgene water botttle for this too - then you’re not always stopping to open your backpack along the way.
Rental equipment
If you have your own gear you know works well, then bring it along! If not, we have gear available to rent [OBI Step 4 page]. If you’d like to rent something let us know at least two weeks before your trip starts - we only load up as much gear as we need. Rental gear will be handed to you the night before your hike.
‘Touching the Ice’ on Grey Glacier - Additional cost per person.
On this option you’ll have the opportunity to take part in an extra activity you’ll take a boat trip across the glacier’s terminal lake, to a point at which we can access incredible close-up views of the glacier. Then it’s a guided hike to areas where the glacier’s retreat is strikingly clear, and up to the glacier’s edge. Afterwards we’ll head back to our
‘Zodiac’ boat and return to the shore.
The 3 hour package includes return boat transfers to Grey Glacier, where you’ll hike along Nunatuk Island and right to the face of the Grey Glacier.
This option is very popular so we recommend pre-booking if you know you’re keen. Just let us know through your OBI or email us - we put a few spaces aside for each trip and we’ll make sure one has your name on it! Pre-payment is required with your trip balance. It’s worth noting this option can be weather dependent, so if it’s cancelled due to the weather, we can send your full refund home.
Option B: W-trek Experience
An alternative option is to spend five days exploring the incredible Torres del Paine National Park with amazing day trips that will take you from sheer granite peaks and snow-clad mountains, to glacial lakes and thick Magellanic forests. You’ll spend all four nights at Nash Serrano, a comfortable lodge from where you’ll head out each day to explore some of the best sights this park has to offer. Each day will offer both morning and afternoon activities, hiking around 3-4 hours (on average) with a maximum elevation gain of 700m – though every hike is flexible. You’ll walk around Azul Lagoon and hike toward the French Valley, choose to kayak Lake Grey, and climb up to some of the best viewpoints to take in the Torres del Paine mountain range. This option really does give you a chance to see and experience it all!
Accommodation
Kau Rio Serrano is located in the small town of Serrano on the banks of the river of the same name, surrounded by the beautiful nature that characterizes Patagonia and with an impressive view of the Paine mountain range. The refugio sleeps 22 people and is equipped with excellent facilities and comfortable quad share rooms. There will be shared bathrooms, central heating and meals are served in the restaurant where there’s a bar that accepts pesos, dollars, euros and credit cards if you fancy a drink.
Kayak on Grey Lake [Additional cost per person – age limit is 65.]
You’ll have the option to head out on Lake Grey for a paddle. We’ll meet our specialist kayak guides at the inlet of Serrano River, and they’ll match you with a kayak and provide all the necessary equipment for a unique way to explore Lake Grey. No prior experience is required, everything you need is supplied, as long as you can paddle!
Essential Clothing
Waterproof rain jacket: a breathable, rainproof and windproof unpadded shell jacket with a hood.
Waterproof/windproof rain pants: for keeping dry and warm while hiking.
Wearing thermal underwear underneath these is best.
Fleece/Down Jacket/Wool sweater: two to keep warm for cold days and nights - especially in the refugio’s.
Shirts/T-shirts: two or three, cotton or quick-dry.
Long-sleeve shirts: one or two, cotton or quick-dry for insect protection.
Lightweight trousers: a pair for cooler nights, higher elevations and insect protection.
Shorts: one or two pairs, some cotton, some quick-dry.
Thermal underwear: one set of top and bottom thermal/polypropylene underwear for cold mornings.
3-4 pairs of Socks: good quality hiking socks, warm and casual.
Casual Clothing: if you’d like to bring a nice skirt/shirt to wear out to dinner.
Essential Luggage
Main piece of luggage
Day pack (plus a rain cover for your day-pack in case it’s wet).
Collapsible bag: for storing excess gear in while hiking the W-trek (stored in Puerto Natales). NOTE: Necessary if your main luggage is also your trekking backpack. Not necessary if you’re hiring our backpack.
Gear List - Chilean Condor
Gear Note
If you’re not sure what any of these things are, please ask at your nearest outdoor store, or ask us. We want you to be as well prepared as possible for your trip.
Fabric Note
We recommend quick-drying, wicking fabrics such as Patagonia capilene, Icebreaker merino, or other specially designed fabrics for this trip. If you’re not sure what a quick-dry fabric is, ask at your nearest outdoor store. While you can bring some cotton, denim and other non-wicking fabrics on this trip, be aware that they won’t be easy to wash or dry.
Essential Footwear
Hiking boots
Trail runners/light sandals: for biking and casual wear.
Jandals/light sandals: or similar.
Essential W-Trek Items
Trekking backapck
Small Backpack: for side hikes, must fit inside your trekking pack
Backpack liner/cover: to keep your belongings dry inside your pack if it rains.
Sleeping bag: Must be rated to at around 0ºC (32ºF) three seasons
Torch/flashlight/headlamp
Essential Accessories
Hiking poles: we highly recommend bringing one or two poles with you to support your knees during the hikes.
Warm hat: wool/fleece ski hat or similar.
Sun hat: wide brimmed to protect you from the sun.
Sunglasses: with polarizing lenses to prevent glare.
Warm Gloves
Water/Hydration bladder: 2 x 1 litre bottles - easier to fill up on the trail.
Personal Items
Toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, tooth brush & paste, soap, facecloth, prescription medications, glasses/lenses, shaving gear, feminine hygiene products, wet wipes, hand sanitiser (some is provided), ziplock bags.
Personal medical aid kit: for any essential items you know you’ll need e.g. blister treatment.
Camera: memory cards and batteries/charger.
Sun-block: SPF 15 UVA/UVB broad spectrum is recommended.
Insect repellent: for midges in the hot weather
Essential documents and items
Passport: in a waterproof bag.
Passport copy: please bring a photocopy of your passport.
Money: local currency, credit/debit cards with pin number for cash withdrawals.
Trip Summary Step 6 page: print this out and bring it with you. It includes where to meet your group, any extra hotel information and emergency numbers.
Recommended Items
Hiking gaiters: not essential, though great for this trip to keep the tops of your boots and socks dry and they add extra warmth.
Swim suit/shorts: for any swimming opportunities.
Travel towel: You might like to bring a travel towel for swimming.
Ear plugs: recommended for light sleepers, and for use in the refugio’s.
Energy snacks/drinks: snacks will be provided, you may like to bring some along too if you have special dietary needs.
Reusable Coffee Cup: If you’re a keen coffee drinker.
Adapter plug: depends on your home country.
Plastic ziplock bags: for dirty clothes on the W-trek.
Sanitary wipes: Can be handy!
Reading material
The final word
If there’s anything else please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at: [email protected] or head to our website for more information about South America.
