Remote Camps of Patagonia

This morning we will have a full-day of whale-watching activities aboard the Tanu. We will have the privilege of sharing with the resident scientists to learn, in the field, about these gentle whales ecology by watching them at close range and likely with no other visitors in the surroundings. This magnificent and productive area supports a vast and unique biological diversity, due to exceptional conditions such as the mixing of the two oceans (the Pacific and the Atlantic), the presence of productive upwellings, the strong westerly winds as well as the presence of glaciers and the dismembered coastline. This is why this marine park can hold a summer population of humpback whales which use these waters as feeding grounds. If we are lucky, we may see the endemic and scarce Chilean Dolphin while sailing these waters. Today’s great nature spectacle with this amazing wildlife will be enriched by visiting Santa Ines Island and we will be stunned by the beautiful mountains, glaciers and pristine forests that surround this protected area. Back to the ‘Camp’ to share with the scientists, the other guests and our dedicated staff for a memorable farewell dinner.

Overnight at Eco-Camp Carlos III Island, Straits of Magellan (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)(Guide).

After breakfast, we will make our journey back to Punta Carrera and then to Punta Arenas. On the way back we will investigate Rupert Island, we will also visit large breeding colonies of South American sea lions, Southern fur seals, Magellanic Penguin (c. 19,000 individuals) and Chilean Skua. Along the route we will have other opportunities to spot whales and other wildlife. We expect to arrive to Punta Carrera at around 5pm and then by van to Punta Arenas in order to be at our hotels around 7-8pm.

Overnight Hotel Diego de Almagro, Punta Arenas

(Breakfast, Lunch)(Guide)

We start this second part of our trip with a private transfer from your hotel in Punta Arenas to the remote, rugged and wild Baguales Range (Sierra Baguales). Your naturalist guide will accompany you during the entire trip, facilitating the logistics and providing interpretation about the natural history of this fascinating and scenic region. Estancia La Cumbre is a private ranch, owned by a Scottish-descendant family; their Baguales Glamping is a brand-new facility, aimed to provide a superior experience in the wild, enjoying the privacy and solitude of this secluded place, probably one of the remotest corners of Chilean Patagonia. Soaring Andean Condors and herds of Guanaco will be a common sight while we drive the 3-mile track on a suitable UTV vehicle. The camp consists of four comfortable and ample double/twin-bedded domes, all with private ensuite-baths and central heating; the common area is a gaucho post, which honors a true legend of these mountains, the Gaucho Rodas, a gentleman who lived here for nearly three decades. We will learn about the geology and paleontology of this place and will walk the surrounding bogs, searching for common birds of the area, such as Black-billed Shrike-Tyrant, Yellow-bridled Finch, Magellanic Snipe among others. The sunsets here are usually dramatic and colorful and we will enjoy of a great diner and the warm hospitality of the camp staff.

Overnight Baguales Glamping (Lunch, Dinner) (Guide)

Another full day of adventures in the remote corners of the Baguales Range. Today’s suggested plan is to enjoy of the opportunity to hike to some of the nearest scenic hotspots. After an early breakfast, we will enjoy a UTV ride to Laguna Rodas, an isolated freshwater lake surrounded by impressive, rugged peaks. From here we will enjoy commanding views to the Baguales and the distant Bandurrias valley. Rodas Lagoon is a suitable habitat for a variety of waterbirds, including Red-gartered Coot, Silvery Grebe and Flying Steamer-Duck; also the surrounding meadows and grasslands have a variety of alpine flora during the southern summer months (December until February). After exploring the surroundings of the lagoon, we will walk back to the camp (2 miles) to enjoy lunch at the Puesto “Gaucho Rodas”. During the afternoon, we will traverse the scenic route towards the remote Verlika Valley. Jagged peaks, pristine streams and lush meadows are the magnificent habitat for Guanacos (and surely Puma also!). The destination is a cave and a viewpoint where Mr Rodas found shelter during his explorations of the valley. A loose colony of the Magellanic Tuco-Tuco, a local rodent, occurs here and with a bit of patience, we might be able to see their heads and bodies sticking out of their burrows. We will walk back to the Camp (2-3 miles) to later enjoy a traditional gaucho asado (barbecue). Expect another sunset opportunity with the imposing peaks of the range.

Overnight Baguales Glamping (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)(Guide)

We will leave Baguales Glamping after breakfast. On the way out, we will check the rocky outcrops filled with fossils with a variety of organisms, including crabs, mollusks, shark teeth and even leaves of ancient forests. A short ride will take us to Chorrillo Jabón (the Soap Creek), where there is another puesto, part of the rich history of this range and ranch, famous by its long-gone hunter-gatherers, gauchos and rustlers. A short hike along this creek will give us the chance to approach the picturesque hill of Las Chinas. After our picnic lunch, we will drive back to your chosen accommodation either in Puerto Natales or Torres del Paine. End of the trip.

(Breakfast, Lunch)(Guide)

The trip price includes: All accommodations, meals and guide services as stated in the itinerary, private ground transportation during the tour, navigation to Carlos III island, and park entrance fees.

The trip price excludes: Domestic flights, tipping for restaurants and guides, travel insurance, excess baggage charges, à la carte dishes, snacks, drinks, laundry, telephone calls and anything else of a purely personal nature.