|
|
|
Chilean Patagonia Trails
Patagonia / Torres del Paine
Chile
Ride across the beautiful wilderness of the Chilean Patagonia!
This riding adventure lets you explore some of the most remote corners of Patagonia so that you can feel close to nature. During this tour, you will also learn more about the gaucho lifestyle and go on a beautiful boat excursion to see the Grey Glacier!
Camping Ride with vehicle support
|
Meeting:
|
Sierra Baguales
|
Airport:
|
Puerto Natales
|
Transfer:
|
Puerto Natales Airport
|
Riders:
|
Min
5 riders
Max
8 riders
|
|
Trip Brochure (PDF)
Trip Rating
|
|
|
|
Rates and Dates for 2025
Rates include*:
Accommodations, All meals, Torres del Paine National Park entrance fee, Boat Trip to Grey Glacier, Airport transfers & Riding according to program
A | 2025 | 7-day tour | 7d / 6n | $7600 |
Small group supplement (3-4 riders), pp | $1000 |
Small group supplement (2 pax only), pp | $2000 |
Single supplement | $1200 |
B | 2025 | 10-day tour | 10d / 9n | $11990 |
Minimum Deposit:
30 %
* prices are per person based on double/twin occupancy
Transfer and Other Charges:
2025
|
Transfers included from/to Puerto Natales Airport
|
Tour Dates for 2025
These tours need to be booked at least 3 months in advance.
|
Rates do not include:
Drinks, Gratuities & medical and travel insurance (mandatory)
Please note that the program can be modified by the lead guide due to force majeure, weather or logistics. This ensures maximum safety and comfort for all clients. The guides always take into account the best interests of the whole group and do everything in their power to ensure that all clients have a unique experience. The guide’s decision is final. The success of this tour depends on the collaboration of all riders.
Sample Itinerary: 7-day program - subject to changes
Day 1: Arrival & Transfer to Baguales
Pick-up at 10:00 AM from hotel or the airport in Puerto Natales. Drive north with a stop at Cerro Castillo for coffee and souvenirs. Lunch around 1:00 PM at Estancia Cerro Guido. After lunch, continue to Estancia Las Cumbres. Transfer to UTV for final access to Baguales Glamping. Dinner and overnight in private domes.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at Baguales Glamping
Day 2: Sierra Baguales Ride
After breakfast, UTV transfer to Estancia Las Cumbres. Horses ready and waiting. Approximately 5-hour ride through valleys and steppes of Sierra Baguales. Includes river crossings, ascents and descents, walk/trot/canter. Return to Baguales Glamping for second night.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Baguales Glamping
Day 3: Ride to Estancia Las Chinas
UTV transfer again to Estancia Las Cumbres. Horses ready. Luggage is transported to Estancia Las Chinas. Ride begins around 10:00 AM, arrival around 4:00–5:00 PM. Highest elevation of the week (1,200–1,300 masl). Lunch at the top. Descent to Las Chinas Valley. Overnight at Estancia Las Chinas.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Estancia Las Chinas
Day 4: Ride to Laguna Amarga (via Laguna Azul)
Depart Estancia Las Chinas on horseback. Pass Laguna Azul (lunch stop), continue to Laguna Amarga (eastern park entrance). Leave horses in the field. Transfer back to Estancia Las Chinas. Second night at estancia. Traditional Patagonian lamb barbecue (asado al palo) for dinner.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Estancia Las Chinas
Day 5: Riding from Laguna Amarga to Park Administration
Transfer back to Laguna Amarga (~45 min). Ride begins around 10:00 AM. Route from Laguna Amarga to Administration sector. 5–6 hour ride with lunch en route. View of Torres from the north, then the south face of the massif as the ride continues. Horses remain in the park. Transfer to Pampa Lodge.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Pampa Lodge
Day 6: Ride to Lago Grey & Boat Ride
Breakfast at Pampa Lodge. Transfer (15–20 min) to Administration. Ride toward Grey Lake. Depending on boat availability, lunch at Hotel Grey or packed lunch during navigation. Check-in at 3:00 PM, boat departs at 4:00 PM. Return to Pampa Lodge by 7:00–7:30 PM. Final dinner and overnight.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Pampa Lodge
Day 7: Return to Puerto Natales
Breakfast and transfer back to Puerto Natales. Drop-off around midday. Departure time adapted to flight schedules. Earlier private transfers can be arranged if needed.
Breakfast included
Sample Itinerary: 10-day program - subject to changes
Day 1: Arrival
Transfer (approximately 2 hours) from Puerto Natales airport to Estancia Cerro Guido, where you will learn more about the gaucho lifestyle. Then, transfer to your accommodation, in the Sierra Baguales, a place surrounded by rolling hills and towering mountains located in the Northern side of Torres del Paine, right next to the border with Argentina.
A Calafate sour, (typical Patagonian drink) will be waiting for us at our arrival.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at Baguales Glamping
Day 2: Sierra Baguales Ride
After breakfast, we go on our first ride in Sierra Baguales, exploring the untamed, breathtaking landscape. We will stop for lunch in an old Puesto, a place where the gauchos (Patagonian cowboys) live.
Riding approx. 6 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Baguales Glamping
Day 3: Ride to Estancia Cerro Guido
Today, we ride to Estancia Cerro Guido. We take our lunch and enjoy a siesta in an authentic working estancia, close to the famous Torres del Paine National Park.
Riding approx. 7 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Estancia Cerro Guido
Day 4: Waterfall Ride
This morning, we ride to the waterfall Salto Las Chinas, where we will have lunch before heading to Laguna Azul. On the way to our accommodation, we will cross the Rio Las Chinas.
Tonight, we enjoy a typical Asado de cordero (lamb barbecue).
Riding approx. 6 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Estancia Cerro Guido
Day 5: Riding from Laguna Azul to Rio Serrano
This is one of our longest day! We ride from Laguna Azul to Rio Serrano, covering about 50km passing along the Lago Sarmiento. After leaving our horses in a paddock, we are transferred to a hotel for dinner and overnight.
Riding approx. 9 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Rio Serrano Hotel
Day 6: Ride to Lago Grey & Boat Ride
Our destination for the day is Lago Grey where we’ll have the opportunity to take a boat to Grey Glacier (3 hours) to admire the ice field. We will also enjoy a scenic 45 minute hike to get to the boat.
After our boat excursion, transfer back to the hotel.
Riding approx. 4 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Rio Serrano Hotel
Day 7: Puerto Natales
This morning, we are transferred to Puerto Natales. After checking into our hotel, we have some free time to go shopping and discover this little town.
The most adventurous can choose to go on a stand up paddle tour (extra fee).
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel
Day 8: Pampa Ride
We go by boat to Estancia La Peninsula. After some coffee we go for a ride! We will be riding through the native forests and the pampa, chasing amazing views and riding along beaches.
We will spend the night at a nice house in the middle of nowhere.
Riding approx. hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at La Barrosa
Day 9: Nature & History Ride
We spend the entire day riding and exploring. We will also have the opportunity to explore some fascinating archaeological sites.
Riding approx. hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at La Barrosa
Day 10: Departure
We ride back to Estancia La Peninsula where the boat is waiting for us to go back to Puerto Natales.
Then, transfer to the Airport.
Breakfast included
Meeting:
Sierra Baguales
Airport:
Puerto Natales
Train station:
--
Transfer:
Puerto Natales Airport
Tack:
|
|
Chilean saddle
|
Horses:
|
|
Criollo crosses
|
Pace:
|
|
5-9 hours in the saddle per day (about 30-40 km covered per riding day)
|
Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
|
Level:
|
|
(3
to
4
out of 5) Strong Intermediate
|
Weight:
|
|
Max
198 lbs / 90 kg
|
Riders:
|
|
Min
5 riders
|
Max
8 riders
|
|
Horses
The horses are all Criollo Crosses, which vary in size with the majority being around 165cm tall. They are strong, fit, and sure-footed.
Tack
The tack is Chilean and comfortable and comprises metal framed saddles onto which are layered felt, sheepskin and leather. Rope, rawhide and leather form the bridles.
Riding Experience
Riders must be physically fit and capable of enduring long hours in the saddle. You should be comfortable riding at a trot and canter for extended periods of time.
Safety
The guides may give you specific instructions for dealing with horses and the environment and you must always follow their guidance. The guides retain the right to deny you the opportunity to ride or be around the horses if they feel it is unsafe or that you have misrepresented your horse riding ability. The guide does not owe you any compensation in this situation as you are responsible for sharing accurate information about the rider’s fitness and ability when booking so that the operator is able to accurately assess that the trip is appropriate for each rider.
Insurance
It is a condition of booking that you have or arrange adequate insurance cover for personal liability, medical and holiday cancellation. When obtaining travel insurance, you must ensure that the insurer is aware of the type and destination of travel and any activities which you plan to undertake. Horse riding holidays can be considered high risk and may not be included in the standard terms of your current travel insurance. Please ensure that you are fully covered, in particular with regard to the maximum cancellation amount, and that you provide details of your insurer and policy number for our records.
If you do not arrange the aforementioned cover, we may refuse your booking or cancel your holiday. In any event, we will not be held responsible for any expenses, loss or damage you incur as a result of your failure to comply with this clause or the requirements of your travel insurance policy. Please read your policy details carefully and take them with you on holiday. It is your responsibility to ensure that the insurance cover you purchase is suitable and adequate for your particular needs.
Passport and Visa Requirements:
PassportsPassport valid for at least six months required by nationals referred to in the chart.Passport NotePassports issued to children must contain a photo and state the nationality.VisasNot require. more
Puerto Natales area
Month
|
Jan
|
Feb
|
Mar
|
Apr
|
May
|
Jun
|
Jul
|
Aug
|
Sep
|
Oct
|
Nov
|
Dec
|
Average High Temperature (°F)
|
61
|
60
|
58
|
52
|
45
|
41
|
41
|
43
|
49
|
53
|
55
|
58
|
Average Low Temperature (°F)
|
51
|
49
|
47
|
41
|
36
|
33
|
32
|
33
|
39
|
44
|
46
|
50
|
Average High Temperature (°C)
|
16
|
16
|
15
|
11
|
7
|
5
|
5
|
6
|
10
|
12
|
13
|
15
|
Average Low Temperature (°C)
|
11
|
10
|
8
|
5
|
2
|
0
|
0
|
0
|
4
|
6
|
8
|
10
|
Source: NOAA
Seasons
Torres del Paine has a milder and drier microclimate than the surrounding areas of Patagonia because of some unique geological features. The weather however is famously unpredictable and it is possible to experience four seasons in the course of a few hours!
Brace yourself for a rollercoaster of weather elements: snowfall, rain, blazing sun, and powerful winds that may sweep in surprisingly swiftly. While the most extreme conditions aren't an everyday occurrence, a wise rider stays prepared for any eventuality (see recommended pack list).
Once the austral summer sets in, get ready for extraordinarily long daylight hours, lasting a remarkable 15 to 17 hours!
In general, the climate tends to be chilly and breezy, with average temperatures spanning from 10 to 18 °C during the summer months. However, don't be fooled by the numbers! The biting wind can make it feel much cooler than anticipated.
At night, temperatures can drop to zero.
Special note – strong winds
You can never be sure of how Paine will treat its guests, we ask that clients are prepared (both mentally and physically) for unpredictable and sometimes challenging weather conditions and that you pack accordingly. The weather can be notoriously unkind, wet, cloudy and closed-in (a pain for visibility). It can also be extremely windy (and people often get blown off their feet literally and parked vehicles over-turned in very extreme wind).
Luckily it doesn’t tend to stay too wet for too long but clients need to be prepared for the conditions both physically and mentally. Good waterproofs (top to toe) are essential.
Ensuring your comfort during the expedition, it's essential to have warm and waterproof outdoor clothing. We would like to emphasize the importance of layering due to the ever-changing weather conditions.
We recommend the following equipment:
- Footwear: Two pairs of shoes are ideal. Waterproof leather boots or trekking shoes are essential for both riding and walking. For evening relaxation, lightweight sneakers are perfect.
- Thermal underwear (tops and leggings) in two sets. Avoid cotton as it absorbs moisture and takes longer to dry.
- Waterproof/lightweight
- Trekking trousers for ease of movement.
- A waterproof/windproof hooded jacket to shield against the elements.
- Additional warm layers, like soft-shell or fleece jackets, are advised. Lightweight jackets for camping are ideal.
- Don't forget at least two pairs of gloves, preferably waterproof, and a warm cap for chilly moments.
- Ensure your safety with a riding helmet and protect your eyes with sunglasses.
- A thermal neck scarf (Buff) for added comfort.
- A headlamp to navigate in low-light situations.
- Carry cosmetics, including sunblock and wet tissues, to stay fresh.
- Use nylon or waterproof bags to secure your personal items from moisture.
- Keep yourself hydrated with a small thermos (0.5L – 1L) or water flask for personal use.
With these carefully chosen essentials, you'll be well-prepared for an incredible adventure in Patagonia!
General
- A few lightweight, easily washable items (layering is always best)
- Midweight fleece or wool sweater
- Midweight fleece or wool pants
- Long-sleeved shirts or tees for layering
- T-shirts
- Underwear and personal items (for women we recommend a good sports bra for riding)
- Wool cap or other warm hat (choose one that can be used under your riding helmet)
- Wool sweater or fleece
- Sun hat or visor that can be worn with your riding hat
- Camera, spare batteries and a spare memory card
- Waterproof camera bag
- Flashlight/torch with spare batteries (Maglite or similar)
- Sunglasses (preferably with a neck string)
- Sunscreen and lip salve
- Insect repellent
- Small towel
- Personal toiletries
- Any personal medication
- Riding trousers (Half or full chaps can be provided if required)
- Pair of insulating and quick-drying riding gloves
- Riding helmet: We strongly recommend riders bring their own BHS/ISO approved hard hat. Hard hats save lives and can prevent serious head injury. Riders who do not wear a helmet do so at their own risk and will be asked to sign a waiver.
- Socks (including knee-high pairs for riding)
- Riding boots (well broken in) or ankle-high multi-purpose boots which work well when worn with half chaps and can comfortably be worn for walking too
- Waterproof and windproof jacket (Gortex or other suitable fabric) with a hood and no leaks. Some clients wear long Australian stock coats. No plastic ponchos please!
- Waterproof trousers (make sure they have an under-foot stirrup to stop them riding up the leg)
- Riders should also bring spare plastic bags/ziplock bags for storing non-waterproof items such as cameras, binoculars etc in the saddle bags. These are made of tough hessian and will not repel heavy rain.
Useful items
- Spanish phrasebook or dictionary
- Travel alarm clock
- Swiss army knife
- Wet Ones or similar travel wipes
- Tissues
- Tracksuit trousers or comfortable walking trousers for optional hikes and for relaxing
- Reading material
- Electrical adapter (Chile uses a 2-pin, 220 volt outlet)
- Spare contact lenses or glasses if necessary
- Small binoculars
- Ear plugs for light sleepers
Sorry, no video is currently available for this tour.
*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
** No trip reports found
with the tour ID you provided.
|
..view other reports for different trips
Accommodations
This is a progressive ride, so nights will be spent in different locations.
Description
Accommodations include a mix of authentic estancias as well as comfortable and modern hotels.
10-day Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Night 1 & 2: Baguales Glamping
Night 3 & 4: Estancia Cerro Guido
Night 5 & 6: Rio Serrano Hotel
Night 7: Hotel in Puerto Natales
Nights 8 & 9: La Barrosa
7-day Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Night 1 & 2: Baguales Glamping
Night 3 & 4: Estancia Las Chinas
Night 5 & 6: Pampa Lodge
Baguales Glamping
You are accommodated in private domes with ensuite bathroom and central heating. The rooms are simple but comfortable and offer great views on the surrounding landscape.
Estancia Cerro Guido
On the slopes of Cerro Guido, you are accommodated in houses built by the pioneers in 1920. Here, you can truly disconnect and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes as well as the garden and orchard. Enjoy a tea, card game or a good book in one of the three cozy living rooms, where you can also find interesting information about Patagonia, its history and nature.
Each of the 12 rooms feature an English style décor. They have central heating, private bathroom, hairdryer, a safe, Wi-Fi connection and views of our gardens.
Cabanas Laguna Azul
You spend the night in a lovely cabin with private bedrooms.
Rio Serrano Hotel
This modern hotel offers cozy bedrooms with a view of the surrounding mountains. Each room features a phone, a safe and private facilities. Wi-Fi is available at this property.
Guests can also decide to go for a swim in the indoor pool.
Estancia Las Chinas
You spend the night in a cosy guest house recently converted from an old ranch house. The rooms have 2-4 bunk beds and shared bathrooms with hot water. There is also a small fireplace.
Pampa Lodge
This rural hotel puts great attention to details concerning the environment. The rooms are simply decorated and feature as much natural material as possible. Each room is equipped with a private bathroom, heating and free Wi-Fi access.
Single Supplement
Solo travelers must pay a single supplement fee.
Meals
All meals are included from dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on the last day.
A beer or soft drink is included with your lunch.
At dinner, some wine is also included.
Dietary Restrictions
Special diets can be catered for on our trips with prior notice.
This trip
includes some wine with dinner
and
can accommodate special dietary requests.
Tack:
|
|
Chilean saddle
|
Horses:
|
|
Criollo crosses
|
Pace:
|
|
5-9 hours in the saddle per day (about 30-40 km covered per riding day)
|
Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
|
Level:
|
|
(3
to
4
out of 5) Strong Intermediate
|
Weight:
|
|
Max
198 lbs / 90 kg
|
Riders:
|
|
Min
5 riders
|
Max
8 riders
|
|
Horses
The horses are all Criollo Crosses, which vary in size with the majority being around 165cm tall. They are strong, fit, and sure-footed.
Tack
The tack is Chilean and comfortable and comprises metal framed saddles onto which are layered felt, sheepskin and leather. Rope, rawhide and leather form the bridles.
Riding Experience
Riders must be physically fit and capable of enduring long hours in the saddle. You should be comfortable riding at a trot and canter for extended periods of time.
Safety
The guides may give you specific instructions for dealing with horses and the environment and you must always follow their guidance. The guides retain the right to deny you the opportunity to ride or be around the horses if they feel it is unsafe or that you have misrepresented your horse riding ability. The guide does not owe you any compensation in this situation as you are responsible for sharing accurate information about the rider’s fitness and ability when booking so that the operator is able to accurately assess that the trip is appropriate for each rider.
Insurance
It is a condition of booking that you have or arrange adequate insurance cover for personal liability, medical and holiday cancellation. When obtaining travel insurance, you must ensure that the insurer is aware of the type and destination of travel and any activities which you plan to undertake. Horse riding holidays can be considered high risk and may not be included in the standard terms of your current travel insurance. Please ensure that you are fully covered, in particular with regard to the maximum cancellation amount, and that you provide details of your insurer and policy number for our records.
If you do not arrange the aforementioned cover, we may refuse your booking or cancel your holiday. In any event, we will not be held responsible for any expenses, loss or damage you incur as a result of your failure to comply with this clause or the requirements of your travel insurance policy. Please read your policy details carefully and take them with you on holiday. It is your responsibility to ensure that the insurance cover you purchase is suitable and adequate for your particular needs.
Passports
Passport valid for at least six months required by nationals referred to in the chart.
Passport Note
Passports issued to children must contain a photo and state the nationality.
Visas
Not required by all nationals referred to in the chart above for stays of up to 90 days except the following:
(a) 1. nationals of Greece for up to 60 days and nationals of Romania for up to 30 days.
(b) transit passengers continuing their journey on the same or first connecting aircraft provided holding required travel documents for onward destination and not leaving the airport transit lounge.
Note: Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).
Visa Note
2. Nationals of Australia, Canada and the USA entering Chile for touristic purposes will be charged a processing fee payable on arrival and in cash only. For nationals of Australia, the fee is US$56; for nationals of Canada, the fee is US$132; and for nationals of the USA, the fee is US$100 .
Passport Required? |
British |
Yes |
Australian |
Yes |
Canadian |
Yes |
USA |
Yes |
Other EU |
Yes |
Visa Required? |
British |
No |
Australian |
No/2 |
Canadian |
No/2 |
USA |
No/2 |
Other EU |
No/1 |
Return Ticket Required? |
British |
Yes |
Australian |
Yes |
Canadian |
Yes |
USA |
Yes |
Other EU |
Yes |
This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not
take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult
the embassy or consulate for updated info.
|
|
|
|
Chilean Patagonia Trails
Tour Code:
IT-CHRT09
7 days /
6 nights
Dates :
Jan-Apr & Oct-Dec
Difficulty :
Riding Level Explained A | Beginner  | Beginner A rider who has limited experience, is unable to post the trot and does not canter. | B | Novice
 | Novice A rider who is capable of mounting and dismounting unassisted, capable of
applying basic aids, comfortable and in control at the walk, moderate length posting
trots, and short canters. | C | Intermediate
 | Intermediate A rider who has a firm seat, is confident and in control at all paces
(including posting trots, two point canters and gallops), but does not ride regularly. |
D | Strong Intermediate
 | Strong Intermediate An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly and is comfortable in the saddle for at least 6 hours per day. | E | Advanced
 | All of the above, plus an independent seat, soft hands, and capable of handlinga spirited horse in open country. |
|