Itinerary
The arrival day and the last day are transfer days, so there are no excursions scheduled for those days. On the arrival day, depending on the arrival schedule, lunch will be provided in Puerto Natales, and then we will drive to Torres del Paine National Park, where our team will be waiting for you. You will have the opportunity to take our EcoTour or a yoga class before the cocktail and dinner if there is enough time. On the last day, after breakfast, the van will be ready to take you to the airport or your next destination (please check the exact departure time with your guide or at the reception desk).
With EcoCamp Wildlife Safari, you choose the activities!
Nature walks, treks and more are yours to pick from - it all depends on your mood, weather conditions, and travel companions' preferences! Plus, our private excursion option gives you the freedom every day to choose any excursion that matches your special interests and wishes.
Monday & Saturday
- Activity: Nature Walk.
- Schedule: 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM.
- Hiking distance: 4 km. /3 mi.
- Difficulty: Very Easy.
- Estimated walking time: 2:30 hrs.
- Max. altitude point: 153 m. / 501 ft.
This easy-going, predominantly flat trek boasts stunningly diverse natural scenery and offers the chance to feast your eyes upon a startlingly blue lake, which is secluded from all the other water systems of the area. There will be ample opportunity to spot many graceful guanacos and great grebes along the way. First we will examine the geology of the area’s turbidite rock folds, before descending the isthmus which separates Lake Sarmiento from Lake Sarmiento Chico (the two lakes were once a single mass of water), walking along a slight slope, and ambling beside the eastern edge of Lake Sarmiento Chico. We will eventually arrive at an impressive bay on the western side of Lake Sarmiento, admiring a breath-taking view which could easily be mistaken for a piece of art! We will also be able to study the area’s characteristic calcium deposits here. Then begins our ascent back to the van, and along the way we will stumble across an awe-inspiring, panoramic vista of Lake Sarmiento from its western shore, looking towards its eastern coast glimmering on the horizon.
- Activity: Demanding hike
- Schedule: 7:00 or 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Hiking distance: 22 km / 14 mi
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Estimated walking time: 8 - 10 hrs
- Max. altitude point: 897 m. / 2.942 ft.
After a hearty breakfast, we’ll set off from Ecocamp towards Hostería Las Torres and join the uphill path to Ascencio Valley on the Tower's eastern face. Dry mountain spots, beech forests and small rivers line the scenic walk towards the valley. Our big challenge comes as we climb the steep moraine, a mass of boulders leading us towards one of the world's most famous views overlooking the Towers. The famous Torres del Paine (2,850 m/ 9,350 ft) consist of three gigantic granite monoliths, the remains of a great cirque sheared away by the forces of glacial ice. After an uphill slog, the Towers eventually come into full view, rising majestically before us with the glacial lake visible below. Is there any better place in the world to have lunch? After feasting on the view and our picnic, we’ll backtrack along the same trail through Ascencio Valley and return to EcoCamp. Estimated walking time: 8-10 hours.
- Activity: Demanding hike
- Schedule: 6:30 am. - 8:40 pm.*
- Hiking distance: 19 km. / 11.8 mi.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Estimated walking time: 7 hr
- Max. altitude point: 527 m. / 1.729 ft.
After breakfast, we will be driven to Pudeto Dock, located on the shores of Pehoe Lake. We will board the catamaran that will take us to the north-western sector of the lake, where we will begin the challenging trek to Valle Frances (French Valley) along a steep trail that leads to the very heart of the Paine Massif. We will ascend toward a lookout that will allow us to be amazed at the beauty of the Paine Massif. After our upward trek, we will pause for a picnic and relax a while. This day's adventure will end as we descend through an undulating terrain of mixed grassland and light forest, which will take us to Refugio Paine Grande, located on the peaceful shores of Lake Pehoe. From here, we will board the catamaran, which will take us back to Pudeto, where we will be collected and transported back to EcoCamp.
N.B. The excursion to French Valley varies throughout the season depending on the catamaran connecting Pudeto and Refugio Pehoe. During September & May (low season) the catamaran service will be out of operation or with fewer frequency. Therefore the excursion alternative will be taking the boat to Paine Grande to spend an hour in that area and then take the boat back to Pehoé and drive toward Condor Lookout.* Time of the excursion can change depending on the navigation. During Low Season the excursion starts at 8:30 am and throughout the other months, return can be between 7:00 pm and 8:40 pm.
Tuesday & Friday
- Activity: Nature walk and boat trip
- Schedule: 9:00 AM - 6:30 PM
- Walking distance: 2.5 km / 1.5 mi
- Difficulty: Easy
- Estimated walking time: 1:30 hrs
- Max. altitude point: 200 m / 660 ft
We start off driving across the park, admiring the view of Paine Grande and its snowy peaks, and Los Cuernos with its black, granite horn-like spires. We will drive up to Grey Lake and wander along its gravel beach. Here we'll embark on a catamaran to ride across the icy waters towards the towering blue walls of Grey glacier. After this incredible up-close look at the glacier, we drive back to EcoCamp. Please be aware that the Grey glacier boat trip is subject to availability and weather conditions. (During shoulder season: September, October & April, the boat trip to Grey glacier may be canceled as the boat requires a minimum of 15 passengers to sail, which might not be reached in some cases. If this is the case we will plan an alternative excursion in the park.)
Please Note: During May, the Grey Navigation is not working. The alternative excursion will be Salto Grande and Condor Lookouts.
- Activity: Demanding hike
- Schedule: 9:00 AM - 6:30 PM
- Hiking distance: 6.3 km / 3.9 mi
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Estimated hiking time: 3:30 hrs
- Max. altitude point: 650 m / 2.106 ft
We begin the drive to Lake Grey where you should pause and raise your eyes to the huge peaks of the east. This wind-swept rock monster is Cerro Ferrier which, standing at 1.599 m./5. 246 ft., makes a rewarding (but intense) hike. First, you’ll pass through a forest that gives a fascinating insight into the diversity of austral trees. Here you’ll meet all the classics, lenga, coihue, ñire, and if you’re lucky you’ll meet the famous South American deer, the huemul, which is a national natural monument (keen-eyed watchers will remember it from the Chilean coat of arms).
- Activity: Moderate hike
- Schedule: 9:00 AM - 6:30 PM
- Hiking distance: 15 km / 9.3 mi
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Estimated hiking time: 5 hr
- Max. altitude point: 436 m. / 1.430 ft
We’ll start our day at 8:00 am with breakfast at EcoCamp and a moment to prepare our Box Lunch before boarding our van at 9:00 am. Our ride takes us past the Lazo Weber Estancia where we’ll enter the National Park via Laguna Verde and begin our hike. The Lazo Weber Trail is packed with native flora and wildlife all with the mountainous Paine range on our right. The hike is rather easy and apart from a few hills, the trail remains rather flat. We’ll stop a moment to refuel by the magical Laguna Honda and enjoy the sights and sensations of the gorgeous landscape and fresh breeze. On our way, we will hike through one of the quietest forests in the national park, a fantastic opportunity to observe native trees such as the Lenga and the Coihue.
The rest of our hike takes us to a lookout point (El Toro Lookout) where we’ll be wowed with a 360 degree view of the Paine mountain range, the Patagonian Andes, and a suite of rivers and lakes (including the Paine, Grey, and Serrano Rivers, and Lake Toro, the largest in the region). An hour’s descent* towards Paine River will see us reunited with our van. But before we go back to EcoCamp, we’ll search for more animals to photograph and take a final moment to enjoy the scenery. At about 6:30 pm, we’ll arrive back at our “dome sweet dome”, ready to share in a tasty dinner and talk about our day hiking the Lazo Weber Trail.
*Please have in mind that the last part of the trail may be difficult for people that experiences vertigo, as there is a steep descent through gravel until we get to the van.
*Please note: If the weather is not good, an alternative excursion will be provided.
Wednesday
- Activity: Traditional Culture Tour
- Schedule: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
- Distance: 7 km. / 4.3 mi.
- Difficulty: Very Easy
- Horse riding duration: 2 hrs
- Max. altitude point: 153 m / 501 ft
Embarking on a new day after a satisfying breakfast at Ecocamp, we eagerly make our way towards the enchanting Estancia Dos Elianas. Immersed in the beauty of this rustic paradise, we are greeted with a brief but informative session on horse riding, equipping us with the knowledge and safety measures necessary for our adventure. Our journey begins with a thrilling 1 hour ride to the breathtaking Sierra Ballena, where nature's splendor unfolds before our eyes. For those who are not into horseback riding, the alternative is a hike of approx. 2 hours. Around noon, our taste buds are tantalized as we indulge in a delectable lunch featuring succulent roasted lamb and an array of mouthwatering preparations. Energized and satisfied, we embark on a captivating tour of the Estancia, immersing ourselves in the rich traditions of Patagonia. Witnessing the arrieros in action, tending to their flock, shearing wool, and gracefully riding horses, we gain a newfound appreciation for their hard work. As the day nears its end, we gather for another delightful meal, savoring sopaipillas, jam, cheese, and bread, all lovingly prepared using local ingredients. With hearts full of memories and stomachs content, we bid farewell to this mesmerizing haven and make our way back to Ecocamp, arriving at our cozy domes around 5:00 pm, cherishing the experiences of a truly beautiful day.
Please note:
1- The amount of horses during the excursion is limited and there is a chance you might not be able to perform the horse ride portion of the excursion.
2- During September and May, this excursion will be replaced with Condor & Salto Grande Lookouts. The amount of horses during the excursion is limited and there is a chance you might not be able to perform the horse ride portion of the excursion.
- Activity: Demanding hike
- Schedule: 7:00 or 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Hiking distance: 22 km / 14 mi
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Estimated walking time: 8-10 hr
- Max. altitude point: 897 m. / 2.942 ft.
After a hearty breakfast, we’ll set off from Ecocamp towards Hostería Las Torres and join the uphill path to Ascencio Valley on the Tower's eastern face. Dry mountain spots, beech forests and small rivers line the scenic walk towards the valley. Our big challenge comes as we climb the steep moraine, a mass of boulders leading us towards one of the world's most famous views overlooking the Towers. The famous Torres del Paine (2,850 m/ 9,350 ft) consist of three gigantic granite monoliths, the remains of a great cirque sheared away by the forces of glacial ice. After an uphill slog, the Towers eventually come into full view, rising majestically before us with the glacial lake visible below. Is there any better place in the world to have lunch? After feasting on the view and our picnic, we’ll backtrack along the same trail through Ascencio Valley and return to EcoCamp.
- Activity: Moderate Hike
- Schedule: 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM
- Walking distance: 19 km / 11.8 mi
- Difficulty: Medium
- Estimated walking time: 6 hours
- Max. altitude point: 460 m / 1.509 ft
Once we have enjoyed a delicious breakfast, we set off on an exhilarating journey towards the enchanting Laguna Inge. This hidden gem is nestled just 4km southwest of EcoCamp, along the mesmerizing Los Cuernos trail. As we venture along this picturesque path, we are greeted by a kaleidoscope of vibrant flora and fauna, and if luck is on our side, we may even catch a glimpse of majestic condors gracefully soaring above us. This heart-pounding excursion allows us to fully immerse ourselves in the captivating beauty of the park's central lakes, while also admiring the magnificent horns that adorn the awe-inspiring Paine massif. The pace of our adventure is determined by the group, which means we can reach the Cuernos Lookout (8 km./5 mi. away from Ecocamp) or the Cuernos refuge (13 km/8 mi. away from Ecocamp). After a day brimming with exploration and amazement, we return to EcoCamp, where we can unwind and share unforgettable moments with our fellow hikers.
Thursday
- Activity: Nature walk
- Schedule: 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
- Walking distance: 12.8 km / 7.9 mi
- Difficulty: Easy
- Estimated walking time: 4:30 hrs
- Max. altitude point: 200 m. / 660 ft.
Departing from Ecocamp, we'll go on an excursion that connects two of the four accesses to Torres del Paine National Park. Starting at the Lago Sarmiento gate, we'll walk along a gentle incline, with views of the impressive lake. Along the way, we'll pass private land, a hunting area for the region's largest predator, the puma. After an hour, we'll stumble upon an overhang adorned with ancient cave paintings, dating back over 6,000 years. These fascinating artworks were crafted by the Aonikenk people, the wise predecessors of these vast lands, who shared their traditions and deep connection with nature through these primitive yet profound drawings.. Here, we can photograph the surroundings and understand the rugged geography. After two hours, we'll reach the main access to the park, Laguna Amarga gate, where we can observe the sinuous shape of the Paine River. Then, we'll continue to the Cascada Paine sector and Cañadón Macho, home to guanacos, Rhea, Gray Fox, Condor, Moray Eagle, and more. After exploring this extensive valley, we'll head to the breathtaking Laguna Azul, where we'll embark on an exhilarating hike through the mesmerizing Masle mountain range, immersing ourselves in the beauty of nature.
- Activity: Demanding hike
- Schedule: 7:00-8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Hiking distance: 22 km / 14 mi
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Estimated walking time: 8-10 hr
- Max. altitude point: 897 m. / 2.942 ft.
After a hearty breakfast, we’ll set off from Ecocamp towards Hostería Las Torres and join the uphill path to Ascencio Valley on the Tower's eastern face. Dry mountain spots, beech forests and small rivers line the scenic walk towards the valley. Our big challenge comes as we climb the steep moraine, a mass of boulders leading us towards one of the world's most famous views overlooking the Towers. The famous Torres del Paine (2,850 m/ 9,350 ft) consist of three gigantic granite monoliths, the remains of a great cirque sheared away by the forces of glacial ice. After an uphill slog, the Towers eventually come into full view, rising majestically before us with the glacial lake visible below. Is there any better place in the world to have lunch? After feasting on the view and our picnic, we’ll backtrack along the same trail through Ascencio Valley and return to EcoCamp.
- Activity: Demanding hike
- Schedule: 6:30 am. - 8:40 pm.*
- Hiking distance: 19 km. / 11.8 mi.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Estimated walking time: 7 hr
- Max. altitude point: 527 m. / 1.729 ft.
After breakfast, we will be driven to Pudeto Dock, located on the shores of Pehoe Lake. We will board the catamaran that will take us to the north-western sector of the lake, where we will begin the challenging trek to Valle Frances (French Valley) along a steep trail that leads to the very heart of the Paine Massif. We will ascend toward a lookout that will allow us to be amazed at the beauty of the Paine Massif. After our upward trek, we will pause for a picnic and relax a while. This day's adventure will end as we descend through an undulating terrain of mixed grassland and light forest, which will take us to Refugio Paine Grande, located on the peaceful shores of Lake Pehoe. From here, we will board the catamaran, which will take us back to Pudeto, where we will be collected and transported back to EcoCamp.
N.B. The excursion to French Valley varies throughout the season depending on the catamaran connecting Pudeto and Refugio Pehoe. During September & May (low season) the catamaran service will be out of operation or with fewer frequency. Therefore the excursion alternative will be taking the boat to Paine Grande to spend an hour in that area and then take the boat back to Pehoé and drive toward Condor Lookout.* Time of the excursion can change depending on the navigation. During Low Season the excursion starts at 8:30 am and throughout the other months, return can be between 7:00 pm and 8:40 pm.
Sunday
- Activity: Nature Walk/Horse Riding
- Schedule: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
- Distance: 4 Km. / 2.48 Mi.
- Difficulty: Very Easy
- Estimated walking time: 1:30 hrs.
- Altitude point: 241 Mt. / 790 Ft.
Once we have enjoyed breakfast at EcoCamp, we will head towards the Laguna Azul sector, once we pass the lagoon, we will arrive near the Las Chinas River. There, gentle horses await us to begin a quiet ride, crossing serene rivers twice until we reach an impressive waterfall. Those who prefer not to join the parade have the option of relaxing in the barbecue area or enjoying a short walk with spectacular views of the Torres del Paine, following the banks of the Las Chinas River. We will conclude our adventure with a delicious barbecue that includes options of beef, chicken or lamb. There will be vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free alternatives to satisfy all tastes, before returning to EcoCamp for a well-deserved rest.
- Activity: Moderate Hike
- Schedule: 9:00 AM - 6:30 PM
- Hiking distance: 6.3 km / 3.9 mi
- Difficulty: Easy
- Estimated hiking time: 3:30 hrs
- Max. altitude point: 650 m / 2.106 ft
After enjoying breakfast, we set off westward by van, tracing the scenic southern edge of Nordenskjold Lake. Our journey begins with a breathtaking stop at a stunning overlook just off the road. Here, amidst the beauty and tranquility, we delve into the world of geomorphology, marvel at the diverse landscapes adorned with local flora, and head onto our first venture into understanding the area's fauna. Our adventure continues with a visit to the spectacular Salto Grande waterfall, where water powerfully plunges from Nordenskjold Lake into the serene Pehoe Lake. A brief stroll leads us to the Cuernos viewpoint, offering a sweeping panorama of the iconic Horns. This vantage point is ideal for a deeper appreciation of the surrounding nature, allowing us to closely observe the myriad flora and their intricate relationship with the local wildlife. We then proceed to Pehoe Lake, where a delightful lunch awaits us at Camping Pehoe, perfectly situated to immerse us in the melodious bird songs prevalent in the area. Post-lunch, we hop on a two-hour trek to El Condor Lookout, ascending through the unique steppe vegetation – a golden opportunity to further acquaint ourselves with the indigenous flora and avian life. Atop, the azure expanse of Pehoe Lake and the Paine River unfolds before us, with the vast Southern Patagonian ice fields visible in the distance on a clear day. This moment of awe-inspiring beauty, against the backdrop of the Paine Mountain range and its majestic snow capped peaks, invigorates our spirits. At the trail's conclusion, our van awaits to ferry us back to EcoCamp, marking the end of our journey.
- Activity: Demanding Hike
- Schedule: 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM
- Walking distance: 19 km / 11.8 mi
- Difficulty: Medium
- Estimated walking time: 6 hours
- Max. altitude point: 460 m / 1.509 ft
Once we have enjoyed a delicious breakfast, we set off on an exhilarating journey towards the enchanting Laguna Inge. This hidden gem is nestled just 4km southwest of EcoCamp, along the mesmerizing Los Cuernos trail. As we venture along this picturesque path, we are greeted by a kaleidoscope of vibrant flora and fauna, and if luck is on our side, we may even catch a glimpse of majestic condors gracefully soaring above us. This heart-pounding excursion allows us to fully immerse ourselves in the captivating beauty of the park's central lakes, while also admiring the magnificent horns that adorn the awe-inspiring Paine massif. The pace of our adventure is determined by the group, which means we can reach the Cuernos Lookout (8 km./5 mi. away from Ecocamp) or the Cuernos refuge (13 km/8 mi. away from Ecocamp). After a day brimming with exploration and amazement, we return to EcoCamp, where we can unwind and share unforgettable moments with our fellow hikers.