11-Day Southern Chile: Patagonian Wonders Tour

Today, set out on another cruise through the Strait of Magellan for an enthralling half-day excursion to Magdalena Island and Marta Island.

Situated in the heart of the strait, these islands are part of the protected Los Pingüinos Natural Monument. Magdalena Island is teeming with thousands of Magellanic penguins and boasts a solitary lighthouse on its northeastern tip. Meanwhile, Marta Island is a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, including penguins, cormorants, gulls, and sea lions.

Spend approximately an hour on Magdalena Island, where you'll encounter a mesmerizing colony of up to 170,000 Magellanic penguins. Learn about the strait's history and the islands' ecological importance as you visit an ancient lighthouse and take in panoramic views of the Strait of Magellan from its summit.

After marveling at the wildlife, return to Punta Arenas by boat, then transfer to the bus station for a scenic three-hour journey to Puerto Natales. Along the way, soak in the sights of the Patagonian Pampa and keep watch for local wildlife.

Upon reaching Puerto Natales, check in at your hotel before meeting with your tour guide for a briefing on the upcoming hiking adventures in Paine National Park.

Nestled beside the Última Esperanza Sound, Puerto Natales serves as the entry point to the breathtaking Torres del Paine National Park, boasting enchanting trails that lure outdoor enthusiasts and nature admirers alike.

Rise with the sun and board the bus bound for the Laguna Amarga main entrance, a scenic two-hour journey. Upon arrival, register for your five-day hiking odyssey along the renowned W Trek route.

Today's highlight is the challenging yet rewarding trek to Mirador Base Torres, a 9.6-mile journey spanning approximately seven hours. Traverse the Pampa, stroll beside the Ascencio River, and meander through the Ascencio Valley, soaking in panoramic vistas of mountains, lakes, and the glacier-clad Mount Almirante Nieto. Pause at Refugio El Chileno to deposit your belongings and recharge.

Continue onward through verdant forests until you reach the base of the towers, navigating a lengthy stretch of woodland before ascending a steep rock field for 45 minutes. Upon cresting the final ridge, be awestruck by the triumphant sight of the three towers and Torres del Paine, overlooking a serene turquoise lake.

Take ample time to admire Lago Torres before retracing your steps to Refugio El Chileno, where you'll spend the night, basking in the day's unforgettable adventure.

Once breakfast is finished, venture onto another exciting hike towards Refugio Los Cuernos, a snug mountain refuge nestled by the shores of Lake Nordenskjöld. This journey spans 7 miles and typically lasts for about 5 hours.

Traverse the trail towards the base of the famed Monte Almirante Nieto, winding through the serene shores of Lake Nordenskjöld and beneath the grandeur of Cuernos del Paine. Along the way, revel in breathtaking panoramas of hanging glaciers, glistening lakes, and the diverse flora and fauna indigenous to the area.

Settle in for the evening at Refugio Los Cuernos, enveloped by the natural magnificence of Torres del Paine National Park.

Today's journey leads you through the picturesque Frances Valley, a highlight of the circuit. Covering 10.7 miles and lasting approximately 7 hours, you'll be treated to breathtaking scenery.

As you hike, admire the glacier-fed turquoise lakes and distinctive mountain peaks. Follow the windy shores of Lake Nordenskjöld before ascending towards the French Valley. Take a break at Campamento Italiano to lighten your load before continuing onward. Wind through the forest, climbing the valley until you reach the lookout point, offering panoramic views of the circuit and surrounding lakes, including Nordenskjöld, Skottsberg, and Pehoé, as well as the majestic French Glacier.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant greens and greys of the landscape before retracing your steps to gather your belongings. Trek for another 2.5 hours to Refugio Paine Grande, situated on the shores of Lake Pehoé, where you'll spend the night.

Today's challenge leads to admiring the stunning vistas of Lake Grey and Glacier Grey. The total journey spans 6.8 miles and takes about 4 hours.

Begin by hiking to the picturesque Lake Grey, nourished by Glacier Grey, where you might spot small icebergs bobbing on its surface. Then, proceed to Glacier Grey to witness its jagged ice walls. Renowned as one of the park's most spectacular glaciers, Glacier Grey boasts an expansive ice sheet, radiant blue hues, and drifting icebergs. Be mindful, as the path is often swept by strong winds.

Afterwards, trek for more than 2 hours along the lakeshore towards Refugio Grey, your accommodation for the night.

At dawn, head to Bigfoot Base Camp for your ice hiking adventure. Equipped by your guide, board a boat to Islatak Island, the safest entry point to the ice. Trek across the island for an hour to reach Glacier Grey, where your experienced guide will lead you on a challenging 2.5-hour hike atop the glacier. Equipped with ice axes, crampons, helmets, and harnesses, you'll navigate cracks, rivers, lagoons, and even try your hand at ice climbing. After this exhilarating exploration, return to base camp by boat.

Next, board the Grey III, a double-decker catamaran, for an ice river cruise. Sail through the icy waters to marvel at Glacier Grey's feet from a close distance. Admire the stunning scenery, including floating icebergs, verdant vegetation, and majestic mountains. Conclude your day at the beautiful Hotel Lago Grey for an unforgettable night.

Post-breakfast, arrange a private transfer to Pueblo Serrano. Meet your guide and acquire your kayaks for the day's adventure. Following final preparations, set off on your kayaking journey.

Your initial destination is the captivating Salto del Rio waterfall, where you'll navigate your kayaks around the cascades. Subsequently, paddle towards the majestic Serrano Glacier, pausing along the route for lunch amidst the awe-inspiring backdrop of Tyndall Glacier and the Geike Mountains.

Continue downstream, aiming to approach Mount Balmaceda, where the waters of Ultima Esperanza Fjord converge. From this point, soak in the magnificent view of Serrano Glacier and its drifting icebergs.

Finally, arrive at Puerto Toro for camping. Indulge in a delectable dinner and immerse yourself in the untamed ambiance of the Patagonian forest.

As the sun rises, begin your day by kayaking amidst the blue icebergs of Serrano Lagoon. After this serene adventure, transition to a larger vessel for your journey to Puerto Natales. Along the way, take in the breathtaking views of Balmaceda Glacier as it graces Ultima Esperanza Fjord.

At Estancia Perales, savor the flavors of traditional Patagonian roasted lamb before continuing your voyage to Puerto Natales. Anticipate arrival around 6 PM, where a private transfer will be waiting to take you to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your leisure, unwinding and exploring as you please.

Farewell Time! As scheduled, hop on the bus back to Punta Arenas, then head to the airport for your flight to Santiago, and finally, continue on your journey home.