We are located in Punta Arenas, the capital of Chilean Patagonia.
FAQ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Before Booking
We’ve been offering nature and wildlife tours since 1997, with over 28 years of experience.
You can message us via WhatsApp, email us at tours@farsouthexpeditions.com, or use the contact form on our website.
We recommend booking 4–8 months in advance, especially for high-demand trips or seasonal highlights.
Yes. We specialize in small group and personalized tours tailored to your interests and schedule.
Expert guiding, transportation, lodging, and meals (as per itinerary) are included. Details vary by trip.
The ideal seasons are:
• Southern Autumn (April–May): Golden light, less wind, excellent for pumas and landscapes.
• Southern Spring (September–November): Bird nesting, flowering shrubs, and vibrant wildlife activity.
• Southern Summer (December–March): Long daylight hours, warmer weather, though more wind and tourists.
• Southern Winter (June–August): Solitude, dramatic landscapes, good light — but limited access in some areas.
Yes. You can request a downloadable or printed catalog through our “Get Catalog” section.
Most tours depart from Punta Arenas for better flight connections, but Puerto Natales pickup may be arranged if needed.
While sightings can’t be guaranteed, our success rate is solid, especially with the help of expert trackers and experience in the area.
Yes, though wildlife-focused trips are best suited for children 16 years and older due to early hours, long walks, and quiet requirements.
Yes. We offer programs designed for different fitness levels and can accommodate special needs upon request.
A valid passport is required. Depending on your nationality, a visa may also be needed. We recommend checking your local embassy’s website for up-to-date information.
Is not mandatory, but we strongly suggest comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and adventure activities.
Some tours include transfers; others offer it as an optional add-on. Check the specific tour details or contact us.
Most tours are suitable for anyone with moderate fitness. We also offer gentle walks and more challenging hikes — let us know your preference.
Depends on the kind of tour that you are looking for and how mobile is the person. Contact us in advance to plan accordingly.
We accept Chilean Pesos, U.S. Dollars, and credit/debit cards.
Yes, for custom trips, we can offer special rates for parties of 4 guests or more. Please inquire for details.
Most tours require moderate fitness:
• Walks of 2–4 km on uneven terrain.
• Standing for extended periods during sightings.
Yes. All guides are fluent in English and often in other languages as well.
We limit groups to 3–9 travelers per guide to ensure comfort, exclusivity, and better photography opportunities.
• Private transport
• Accommodations
• All meals (unless otherwise stated)
• Park and ranch entry fees
• Professional guide and tracker services
• Flights
• Personal expenses
• Alcoholic drinks
• Travel insurance
• Gratuities
• Tipping
Cancellations up to 60 days before the tour may be refunded minus a service fee. After that, partial or no refunds apply depending on timing. Full terms are included in the booking agreement.
Yes it depends on the trip, For daily trips 100 USD is required and for multi day trips may vary but begins from 500 USD, for further information contact us. Full payment of the tour fee is due 90 days prior to tour departure.
🏔️ DURING THE TRIP
What is the daily schedule like?
- Morning sessions: 5:30–9:00 AM
- Rest/lunch: 12:00–3:00 PM
- Afternoon sessions: 5:00–8:30 PM
Schedules adapt to weather, light, and sightings.
Where do the tours start?
Most tours begin in Punta Arenas or Puerto Natales. We provide travel advice and pickup details upon confirmation.
Is there internet and mobile signal in Patagonia?
Signal is limited in remote areas. Some accommodations offer Wi-Fi, but don’t rely on constant connectivity during your adventure.
🦉 DESTINATIONS & WILDLIFE
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
Depending on the tour, you may encounter pumas, skunks, armadillos, foxes, guanacos, flamingos, penguins, many endemic bird species and do not forget about migratory birds visiting southern Patagonia during summer.
Are hikes or treks part of the tours?
Yes. Most tours include light hikes or walks. Some may involve moderate trekking—check each trip description for difficulty levels.
What are the best months for wildlife viewing?
October to April is ideal. For puma tracking specifically, spring (October–November) and late summer (March–April) are best.
Can I join if I’m not a photographer or birder?
Absolutely. Our tours are open to anyone who loves nature, wilderness, and authentic travel experiences.
What vehicles do you use?
Comfortable 4×4 vehicles are used for field access, each seating up to 3 travellers plus guide.
What kind of accommodations can I expect?
Rustic yet comfortable Patagonian lodges and rural hotels, with warm rooms, good food, and private bathrooms.
Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes! We can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other needs if informed in advance but depending on the availability of the area where you are travelling, some tours take place in remote areas where those kinds of possibilities are unlikely or difficult to be met.
What are the tipping guidelines?
Suggested per-person/day:
- Guide: $10–15 USD
- Driver: $5 USD
- Tracker: $5–10 USD
Tips may be given in USD or Chilean pesos.
What happens if we don’t see a puma?
Our trackers will maximize your chances, but wildlife is unpredictable. The tour includes diverse fauna, landscapes, and experiences beyond pumas.
🎒 PACKING & EQUIPMENT
What kind of clothes should I pack?
Layering is key due to rapid weather shifts. Pack:
- Waterproof/windproof outer layer
- Fleece or down mid-layer
- Thermal base layers
- Beanie, gloves, and neck gaiter
- Hiking shoes/boots
How much luggage can I bring?
We recommend 1 medium suitcase or duffel + 1 camera bag or backpack. Space in vehicles is limited.
Do I need sun protection in Patagonia?
Yes — even on cloudy days:
- High UV index year-round
- Bring sunscreen (SPF 50+), lip balm, and sunglasses
Is water safe to drink?
Yes, tap water in Patagonia is generally safe, especially in hotels and lodges. We encourage reusable bottles to reduce plastic waste.
📸 PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS
What camera gear do you recommend?
- Main lens: 400–600mm
- Wide lens: 24–70mm for landscapes
- Optional: 1.4x teleconverter, tripod or monopod
- Backup gear: Batteries, cards, charger, cleaning kit
Can I take close-up wildlife photos?
Yes, with long lenses and silent shooting settings, you can get excellent close-ups without disturbing animals.
Will there be help with photography in the field?
Our guides are experienced photographers and happy to assist with settings, light, and composition.
Do I need to bring a laptop for backups?
Optional — but recommended if you want to organize or back up files daily.
🌦️ WEATHER & SEASONS
How is the weather in Patagonia?
Unpredictable. Expect wind, sun, rain, and cold — often all in one day. Wind speeds can exceed 100 km/h (60 Miles per hour) in summer.
Will it be very cold?
- Summer (Dec–Mar): 8–18°C (46–65°F)
- Autumn/Spring: 0–12°C (32–54°F)
- Winter: -10 to 3°C (14–37°F)
Is it always windy?
Yes, especially in spring and summer. Wear windproof/rainproof jackets and secure hat straps or hoods.
Will the trip be canceled due to bad weather?
No — trips run in all weather, unless conditions are dangerous regarding wind which is the main factor not to visit Torres del Paine as an example. Flexibility in the itinerary allows for adjustments.
🧾 AFTER THE TOUR
Will I receive a feedback form?
Yes. We value your opinion and will send you a short survey to help us improve our service.
Can I book another tour with a discount?
Returning guests are eligible for loyalty discounts. Mention your previous tour when booking again!
Do you offer recommendations for what to do next in Patagonia?
Yes! We’re happy to suggest nearby destinations such as Tierra del Fuego, El Calafate, or Puerto Williams.
Where can I leave a review?
We welcome reviews on Google, TripAdvisor, or directly via our follow-up email.