Chile & Argentina Hiking with Backcountry: Patagonia
14 days |
- Group size
- 6–20 travelers
Rugged beauty and mountain majesty at the edge of the earth
Hike some of the world’s most breathtaking trails across the remote wilderness of Chile and Argentina. Start in Chile’s largest city and capital, Santiago, a vibrant blend of art, culture, and nature far to the north, before heading south to the Patagonian region, where bright-blue glaciers, lakes, and soaring mountains await in Torres del Paine National Park. This is variable terrain, and we’ve combined our decades of expertise with Backcountry’s trusted outdoor roots to guide and prep you every step of the way. Trek the Ascencio Valley to the legendary Mirador Las Torres, a signature experience curated by Backcountry. Cross into Argentina for glacial lake ferries, a cruise past Perito Moreno Glacier, laguna hikes beneath Mount Fitz Roy, and a traditional asado meal at a local estancia. Your journey ends in Buenos Aires, Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital, where modern energy meets timeless tradition.
What's included
- 11 nights in handpicked hotels
- Private bus transfers
- Internal flights between Santiago & Puerto Natales and between El Calafate & Buenos Aires
- Grey Lake & Lake Pehoé ferry tickets
- 11 breakfasts
- 8 lunches
- 5 dinners with beer or wine
- Backcountry provided rain jacket
- Wine & whiskey tastings
- Mote con huesillos & choripan tastings
- An expert South American Tour Director
- Local licensed guides for select hikes
- Select guided sightseeing tours
- Access to a Backcountry Gearhead pre-departure
Why you'll love it
- Zip into a Backcountry-provided rain jacket (yours to keep) on a challenging and rewarding Mirador Las Torres hike
- Admire Grey Glacier two ways—by boat and hiking around the shores of Grey Lake
- Visit an authentic Patagonian estancia ranch for a traditional "asado" (BBQ)
- Traverse the panoramic balconies overlooking the towering Perito Moreno Glacier
- Cross river canyons and pass waterfalls hiking down to Laguna Torre
- Conquer the challenging hike up Mount Fitz Roy and Laguna de los Tres
Itinerary
Overnight flight1 night
Day 1: Fly to Santiago
Try and shut your eyes on the overnight flight to Chile—your first full day in Santiago, the capital city encased by the snow-capped Andes, will be a whirlwind one. Double-check you have everything on your packing list and head to the airport for your flight. Settle in with a movie and meal, and picture the pristine valleys and glaciers that await in Patagonia!
Santiago2 nights
Day 2: Arrival in Santiago, Welcome Lunch, and walking tour of Santiago
Included meals: Welcome lunch, Tasting
You’ll touch down early in Chile and head straight into town for a walking tour of Santiago. The city offers the best of both worlds—it’s surrounded by nature but its bustling streets are as cosmopolitan as can get, lined with spectacular architecture and magnificent shopping centers. You’ll admire the city from above as you make your way to the top of the small Cerro Santa Lucía hill in the center of Santiago for the ultimate welcome—a tasting of the “drink of Chile,” mote con huesillos, part cooked husked wheat (mote), part dried peaches (huesillos).
- Meet an EF representative at the airport and make the 45-minute transfer to Santiago.
- Toast with a glass of beer or wine while getting to know your fellow hikers and Tour Director during a Welcome Lunch in town.
- Keep bonding with the group during a Welcome Orientation.
- Explore Santiago’s landmarks on a walking tour heading up to the small Cerro Santa Lucía hill.
- Spend the free evening exploring Santiago on your own — the Lastarria neighborhood and Barrio Italia are both within easy reach
Note: Transfer from the airport to the hotel is only available to travelers who book round-trip flights with EF Adventures.
Day 3: Lo Fontecilla hike and Maipo Valley lunch with wine tasting
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Wine tasting
Welcome to Cabernet Sauvignon country. Your first day of hiking takes you to the Maipo Valley—one of Chile's most celebrated wine regions, often called the "Bordeaux of South America" for the quality of its reds—where a pre-Andean trail called Lo Fontecilla climbs through sclerophyll forest alive with native birds before opening onto a natural viewpoint above the Pirque Valley. From the summit, the Coastal Mountain Range and the Andes summits that ring Santiago spread out in every direction. The descent brings you to a local winery for a tour of its horseshoe-shaped wine cellar and a picnic lunch paired with three or four of the valley's finest—including a Sauvignon Blanc, a Cabernet Sauvignon Gran Reserva, and a Cabernet Franc.
Lo Fontecilla hike
- Physical intensity: 2 out of 5
- Distance: 5.4 miles
- Elevation change: 1,230 ft gain
- Hike Lo Fontecilla through sclerophyll forest alive with native birds, climbing to a natural viewpoint above the Pirque Valley where the Andes and Coastal Mountain Range spread out in every direction
- Descend to a local winery for a tour of its horseshoe-shaped wine cellar
- Sit down to a picnic lunch paired with three or four of the valley's finest — Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon Gran Reserva, and Cabernet Franc
Serrano River Valley1 night
Day 4: Fly to Puerto Natales and travel to the Serrano River Valley
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Next stop: the Serrano River Valley located just outside Torres del Paine National Park. In spring and summer, when the days stretch to nearly 17 hours of daylight, the horns of the Paine Massif glow in shades of purple and red. Today’s a full travel day that ends at your new hotel in the Serrano River Valley—a remote and beautifully situated property that serves as your gateway into Torres del Paine, with the park’s iconic peaks visible from the grounds. Settle in, take in the surroundings, and get some rest before your first proper day of hiking in the park tomorrow.
- Fly to Puerto Natales and then travel toward the Torres del Paine region in the extreme southern stretch of Chilean Patagonia
- Travel to the Serrano River Valley — your gateway into Torres del Paine, with the park's iconic peaks visible from the hotel grounds
- Settle into your hotel with a group dinner
Torres del Paine National Park2 nights
Day 5: Ferry across Grey Lake, Grey Glacier hike, and catamaran ride across Lake Pehoé
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Grey Lake earns its name from the water's hue—a milky, mineral-rich blue-grey fed by the meltwater of the Grey Glacier above. Your morning begins with a scenic ferry ride across the lake, pisco sour in hand, as the glacier's towering ice walls come into view from multiple angles before you dock at Refugio Grey. From here, a local guide leads you along a leg of the famous W Trek, skirting the lake's shores through windswept lenga forests and rugged terrain, with the Southern Patagonian Ice Field visible from the Mirador Grey viewpoint—one of the most dramatic panoramas in the park. The day ends on the water again: a catamaran cruise across the crystal-clear Lake Pehoé, where the reflections of the Paine Grande mountains shimmer in the surface below, before you settle into your new hotel near the start of tomorrow's hike.
Grey Glacier hike
- Physical intensity: 3 out of 5
- Distance: 7.9 miles
- Elevation change: 1,585 ft gain
- Stand on the open-air deck of the Grey III ferry, pisco sour in hand, as the glacier's towering ice walls come into full view across the water
- Hike along the shores of Grey Lake through windswept lenga forest to the Mirador Grey viewpoint, where the Southern Patagonian Ice Field stretches out behind the glacier
- Rest at the Paine Grande refuge on the banks of Lake Pehoé before boarding the catamaran
- Cruise to Pudeto with Mont Almirante Nieto and the Los Cuernos peaks reflected in the water alongside you
Day 6: Mirador Las Torres hike
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
BACKCOUNTRY SIGNATURE MOMENT
The Mirador Las Torres hike is one of the most demanding trails in Patagonia, climbing nearly 4,000 feet over 11.4 miles to reach the viewpoint for the three iconic granite spires that give Torres del Paine its name. Before you set foot on the trail, a co-branded Backcountry Kanarra 2.5L Rain Jacket will be waiting for you—built with a waterproof membrane, fully sealed seams, and a PFC-free DWR treatment to handle the fast-shifting weather Patagonia is known to throw at hikers, especially on a route that climbs this high. The trail begins along the foothills of Mount Almirante Nieto, crossing a swing bridge over the Ascencio River before the real climbing begins—a steep ascent through the Ascencio Valley to Windy Pass, named for the powerful gusts that funnel through the gap. From there, the trail descends to the Chileno Refugio for a brief rest before entering native lenga forest and hitting the final, hardest section: a rocky scramble to the top where guide-provided crampons help you navigate the icy terrain near the summit. At the Mirador Las Torres viewpoint, the three towers rise above a turquoise glacial lake in one of the most arresting scenes in all of South America. By the time you reach the Mirador, the jacket on your back and the lake at your feet, you'll know exactly what 4,000 feet of climbing is worth.
Mirador Las Torres hike
- Physical intensity: 5 out of 5
- Distance: 11.4 miles
- Elevation change: 3,973 ft gain
- Today is your Backcountry Signature Moment—pull on your Backcountry Kanarra 2.5L Rain Jacket at the trailhead and set off on one of the most iconic hikes in Patagonia.
- Cross the Ascencio River swing bridge and ascend steeply through the Ascencio Valley to Windy Pass.
- Rest and refuel at the Chileno Refugio before tackling the trail’s most demanding section, strapping on guide-provided crampons for the icy final push to the summit.
- Reach the Mirador Las Torres and look up — three granite towers rising sheer from a turquoise glacial lake, the Patagonian sky wide open above them.
- Unwind with a group dinner at the hotel before packing up and getting some sleep before tomorrow’s journey across the border into Argentina.
El Calafate2 nights
Day 7: Cross into Argentina, Argentinian estancia lunch & ranch tour, and travel to El Calafate
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch
You've done the Chilean side of southern Patagonia. Now it's time to cross into Argentina—but first, a stop at the rustic Cafeteria El Ovejero Patagónico in Puerto Natales, where you can grab a snack, browse locally crafted souvenirs, and stretch your legs before the long ride to the border at Paso Río Don Guillermo. On the Argentine side, your first stop is a traditional estancia ranch, where gaucho culture—a cornerstone of Argentina's folklore—comes to life. After a sheep-shearing demonstration and a tour of the farm's history and daily operations, you'll sit down to a traditional Patagonian asado: open-fire-roasted lamb, roasted vegetables, and freshly baked bread. From there, it's on to El Calafate, the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park and the vast Patagonian Ice Field.
- Snack on local Chilean cuisine during free time at the quaint Cafeteria El Ovejero Patagónico in Puerto Natales, where you’ll have time for souvenir shopping.
- Cross the border by land from Chile into Argentina via Paso Río Don Guillermo.
- Learn about the history and daily operations of an Argentinian estancia ranch before watching a sheep-shearing demonstration.
- Experience a traditional Patagonia asado (BBQ) of roasted lamb, vegetables, and freshly baked bread.
- Spend a free afternoon in El Calafate strolling along the main shopping street, the Avenida del Libertador San Martín, or making the short walk to the Laguna Nimez nature reserve—home to more than 80 species of birds, including flamingos.
Day 8: Perito Moreno balconies hike & Nautical Safari
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Liquor tasting
Perito Moreno is one of the few glaciers in the world that is actually growing—and today, you'll experience it from two completely different vantage points. The morning begins with a ride to Los Glaciares National Park, where an accessible loop trail descends through southern beech forest to a network of metal walkways and wooden balconies hugging the rocky shoreline of Lago Argentino. At the lowest point, you're standing at eye level with the glacier's towering ice face—ancient ice glowing in brilliant whites and electric blues, groaning and cracking as it slowly advances into the lake. Each platform along the circuit reveals a new angle on the glacier's crevassed surface, and the calving events—house-sized chunks of ice thundering into the water below—are as dramatic as advertised. After a boxed lunch with the glacier as your backdrop, the afternoon shifts to the water. From the Bajo de las Sombras port, you'll board a catamaran for the Nautical Safari—a cruise across Lago Rico that brings you within 400 meters of Perito Moreno's southern wall, closer than any trail can take you. It's here, drifting past the glacier's continuous collapses and towering icebergs, that your Tour Director will pour you a glass of whiskey over ice chipped directly from the glacier itself.
Perito Moreno balconies hike
- Physical intensity: 1 out of 5
- Distance: 2.6 miles
- Elevation change: 692 ft gain
- Hike the Perito Moreno Balcony Circuit, descending through southern beech forest to a series of elevated platforms along the glacier’s edge.
- Follow metal walkways that hug the rocky coast of Lake Argentino, watching for dramatic calving events as house-sized chunks of ice crash into the milky waters below.
- Board a catamaran for the Nautical Safari, cruising to within 400 meters of Perito Moreno’s southern wall for a perspective no trail can offer.
- Enjoy a boxed lunch with prime views of the unparalleled natural beauty of the Perito Moreno Glacier.
El Chaltén3 nights
Day 9: Travel to El Chaltén, Chorillo del Salto hike and traditional Patagonian dinner
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
As Argentina's national trekking capital, El Chaltén's varied terrain makes it a dream for hiking—and a must-visit stop on any adventure trip through Patagonia. After a 4–5 hour ride from El Calafate, you'll lace up your boots for a gentle out-and-back trail that departs from the northern edge of town, winding northwest through open Patagonian steppe and scrubland as the jagged peaks of the Fitz Roy massif rise in the distance. The trail follows the Río de las Vueltas valley at an easy grade, gaining modest elevation before arriving at Chorrillo del Salto—a picturesque waterfall where the river plunges over a rocky ledge into a clear pool at approximately 1,400 feet. It's a perfect warm-up hike and a first taste of the trails that radiate from this remarkable little mountain town. In the evening, you'll sit down for a traditional Patagonian dinner, with the chance to sample some of the craft beer brewed locally in El Chaltén.
Chorillo del Salto hike
- Physical intensity: 2 out of 5
- Distance: 4.7 miles
- Elevation change: 299 ft gain
- Make the journey from El Calafate to El Chaltén — Argentina's national trekking capital — as the jagged peaks of the Fitz Roy massif rise ahead in the distance.
- Lace up your boots for a hike to Chorrillo del Salto, a scenic waterfall on the outskirts of town—the perfect introduction to the trails of El Chaltén.
- Spend a free afternoon exploring the charming mountain village, browsing its shops and cafés catering to the many trekkers passing through.
- Take a seat for a group dinner sampling traditional Patagonian fare and specialties native to El Chaltén, as well as some of the locally brewed craft beer.
Day 10: Laguna Torre hike
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch
The Fitz Roy River valley is full of surprises—especially when you reach the viewpoint for the glacier-formed Laguna Torre. The trail begins in El Chaltén, winding through ancient lenga forests as it follows the glacial waters upstream, the forest opening periodically to reveal glimpses of the dramatic granite spires ahead. As the path emerges from the woodland onto open glacial moraine, the impossible silhouette of Cerro Torre begins to dominate the skyline—a needle-like granite spire soaring over 10,000 feet, its sheer faces rising vertically from the valley floor. At Mirador Laguna Torre, brilliant blue icebergs calved from the nearby Grande Glacier drift across the lagoon's surface. Those continuing on the longer route press onward and upward, climbing steeply along the moraine ridge above the lagoon for sweeping views of the surrounding peaks before descending back to El Chaltén.
Laguna Torre hike
- Option A: 5.2 miles, 1,056 ft elevation gain
- Physical intensity: 2 out of 5
- Option B: 12.3 miles, 1,913 ft elevation gain
- Physical intensity: 4 out of 5
- Hike through the Fitz Roy River valley to Laguna Torre, where Cerro Torre's needle-like granite spire rises over 10,000 feet above a glacial lake dotted with drifting icebergs
- Eat your boxed lunch at the Mirador with Cerro Torre directly in front of you and the Grande Glacier at your back
- Head back to your hotel and rest up — tomorrow's hike to Laguna de los Tres is the longest of the trip
Day 11: Laguna de los Tres & Mount Fitz Roy hike
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch
There's a reason today's hike is one of the most iconic in Patagonia—and the most challenging trek of the trip. Starting from the Río Eléctrico entrance, the trail climbs steeply for the first hour to a natural viewpoint above the valley of the Río de las Vueltas, then continues up along the Del Salto stream through increasingly dramatic mountain scenery. As the ñire trees thin and the valley opens, the granite spires of Mount Fitz Roy—known to the Tehuelche people as Mount Chaltén, "the smoking mountain," and recognizable to outdoor enthusiasts worldwide as the silhouette behind the Patagonia brand logo—rise ahead in full. Four hours in, the trail reaches Poincenot Base Camp for a picnic lunch with the Fitz Roy range spread out in every direction. From here, the final push: a steep, relentless 400-meter ascent to Laguna de los Tres, where the old frontal moraine of the De los Tres Glacier frames the lagoon and the full face of Mount Fitz Roy fills the sky. Below, Laguna Sucia and its hanging glaciers complete one of the most extraordinary mountain panoramas on earth.
Laguna de los Tres & Mount Fitz Roy hike
- Physical intensity: 5 out of 5
- Distance: 13.2 miles
- Elevation change: 3,038 ft gain
Note: The tail end of the hike is often cut short due to snowstorms, so hike specifics are subject to change.
- Climb steeply from the Río Eléctrico entrance, the granite spires of Mount Fitz Roy rising ahead as the ñire trees thin and the valley opens
- Stop at Poincenot Base Camp for a boxed lunch with the full Fitz Roy range spread out in every direction, the final push still ahead
- Ascend the last 400 meters to Laguna de los Tres, where the old moraine frames the lagoon and the full face of Fitz Roy fills the sky above Laguna Sucia and its hanging glaciers
Buenos Aires1 night
Day 12: Travel to El Calafate, fly to Buenos Aires & Farewell Dinner
Included meals: Breakfast, Farewell dinner
Spend the morning admiring the last views of Patagonia’s wild beauty on your way to the El Calafate Airport for your flight to Buenos Aires. Today’s a full travel day, but you’ll have time to relax when you arrive in Buenos Aires and sit back for your final group meal during a Farewell Dinner in town. The trip’s not over just yet though—there’s still a bit more exploring on tap for tomorrow.
- Make your way from El Chaltén to El Calafate — the Fitz Roy massif visible one last time through the rear window before the steppe takes over
- Savor your last evening in Argentina, sharing stories and highlights of the week during a Farewell Dinner in Buenos Aires
Flight home1 night
Day 13: Buenos Aires biking tour and fly home
Included meals: Breakfast, Tasting
You can't leave Argentina without seeing some of Buenos Aires' world-renowned landmarks—and what better way to see them than on two wheels. A local guide leads you on a cycling tour of the city's most iconic quarters, starting at Plaza San Martín before weaving through the old docks of Puerto Madero, past the Puente de la Mujer, and into the crayon-colored neighborhood of La Boca, where the city's tango tradition was born. Along the way, you'll stop to sample choripán—a baguette-style sandwich stuffed with chorizo sausage that's as Buenos Aires as it gets. It's a fitting final chapter for a tour that's been defined by moving through extraordinary places on your own two feet—and with the right gear on your back.
Buenos Aires biking tour
- Physical intensity: 1 out of 5
- Distance: 9.3 miles
- Elevation change: 232 ft gain
- Cycle through Buenos Aires' most iconic quarters — from Plaza San Martín through the old docks of Puerto Madero, past the Puente de la Mujer, and into the crayon-colored streets of La Boca
- Stop for choripán — chorizo in a baguette roll, as Buenos Aires as it gets — along the route
- Rest in a day room near the airport before your overnight flight home
Arrive home
Day 14: Arrive home
Reviews
Handpicked accommodations
From boutique hotels to 5-star luxury retreats, our accommodations are curated with the expert eye and attention to detail that come from 60 years of travel experience, always prioritizing authenticity. We select high-quality properties that balance comfort, location, sustainability, and local charm. From bustling city centers to serene countryside and picturesque small towns, each hotel is chosen to complement your adventure’s unique style. While the specific accommodations may vary based on your travel dates, you can always count on staying at fantastic properties that meet our standards for quality and character.
Santiago - Hotel Cumbres Lastarria
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Serrano River Valley region - Río Serrano Hotel + Spa
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Torres del Paine National Park - Hotel Las Torres
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El Calafate - Esplendor by Wyndham
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El Chaltén - Destino Sur Hotel and Spa
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Buenos Aires - Hotel Madero
See detailsFlights
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Weather
Buenos Aires, Argentina
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El Chaltén, Argentina
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Magallanes region, Chile
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Santiago, Chile
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El Calafate, Argentina
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Torres del Paine, Chile
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Know before you go
- In order to enter Chile and Argentina, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
- We recommend having at least two blank passport pages for entry stamps.
- Upon arrival in Chile, you will receive a Chilean tourist card that you must keep in your passport for the duration of your visit.
- There is no visa required for U.S. or Canadian citizens to enter any of the countries visited on this tour.
- Upon entry into Argentina, travelers are required to show proof of a travel coverage plan that includes medical assistance, hospitalization, and emergency evacuation.
- If you have insurance coverage through EF Adventures, your Proof of Insurance letter is available as a PDF download in your EF account, typically within 72 hours of purchase. A link to access your account is included in your proof of purchase email and again in a reminder email 36 days before your departure.
- If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact each country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
- Round-trip flights booked through EF Adventures arrive in Santiago and depart from Buenos Aires.
- Transfers to and from the airport at the beginning and end of the tour are included for travelers who purchased their flights through EF Adventures. If you book your own flights, airport transfers may be available for a fee upon request.
- When you arrive in Santiago, an EF Adventures representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall with an EF Adventures sign or a sign with your name(s). If you don’t see a representative immediately, please be patient and stay in the arrivals area. They may be assisting another traveler who has also just arrived and will be back shortly.
Physical activity level
This tour is rated as Challenging, which means you’re a dedicated hiker, always seeking the next summit or panoramic viewpoint. This level offers serious workouts with significant elevation gains and big days on the trail. You’ll face some demanding ascents that test your skills and stamina.
This tour is great for:
- Avid hikers
- Those craving intense and rewarding mountain experiences.
What to expect:
- Daily mileage: 2–15 miles
- Daily elevation gain: Up to 4,000 ft
- Typical terrain: Rolling terrain with continuous sustained climbs over longer distances
Tour pacing
This is a fast-paced tour. The pace of a tour itinerary considers how often you’ll switch hotels, the amount of planned daily activities, and how you’ll get from place to place. You can expect:
- Two 1-night stays, three 2-night stays, and one 3-night stay
- Most days and evenings full of included activities
- Transportation by bus, ferries, and internal flights
- Daily transportation time varies and can be lengthy
Climate considerations
- The northern areas of this tour (Santiago and Buenos Aires) are warm and humid, while southern Patagonia experiences cold, windy conditions year-round.
- Since these countries are in the Southern Hemisphere, their seasons are opposite to North America—their summer is during North American winter, and their winter is during North American summer.
- Summer temperatures (December to February) typically range from 50°F to 65°F in Patagonia.
- Winter temperatures (June to August) typically range from 30°F to 45°F in Patagonia, with frequent snow.
- Weather can change quickly and strong winds are common throughout the year. Layered clothing is essential as conditions can shift dramatically within a single day.
Physical activity & tour pace extra info
- EF Adventures and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special mobility or luggage handling assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group enjoys a smooth and informative journey, and they can’t be relied on to provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
- This tour moves at a reasonable pace to avoid missing scheduled stops. The rest of the group cannot miss any scheduled activities because of the needs of an individual.
- If you have physical activity concerns or tour pace questions, please visit our Help Center or give us call at 617-619-1679. We’re here to help!
This tour includes various modes of transportation, including private buses, ferry/boat transfers, and internal flights.
- Ferry transfers from Hotel Lago Grey to Refugio Grey and from Paine Grande refuge to Pudeto are included on tour.
- Internal flights between Santiago and Puerto Natales, and between El Calafate and Buenos Aires are included on tour.
This tour includes one or more internal flights where the cost of the flight and standard baggage allowance are included. Baggage policies vary by airline, and additional fees may apply if bags exceed the airline’s size, weight, or quantity limits. Any excess baggage charges are your responsibility and are paid directly to the airline.
- Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches.
- Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check baggage or exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
- Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights.
- Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
- Travelers must be able to manage their luggage throughout tour; porters aren’t guaranteed at hotels or airports.
- On this tour, you'll need to come prepared with your own gear for the daily hikes and mountain adventures, including hiking shoes, a day pack, reusable water bottle, and more. For a detailed suggested packing list, see the “Clothing & packing tips” section.
From Santiago’s wine valleys to the wind-blasted ridgelines above Torres del Paine, this tour covers a lot of ground and a wide range of conditions.
Lightweight layers that pack down small, a waterproof shell you can pull on at a moment's notice, and trail footwear that earns its miles are non-negotiables. A Backcountry Gearhead has built a curated gear list tailored to this specific itinerary—use it as your starting point. Don't forget to pack:
- Comfortable, waterproof hiking boots with good traction
- Gaiters to keep debris and moisture out of your boots
- Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants for sun and insect protection
- Sunscreen and a sun hat
- Rain jacket and waterproof/rain pants
- Moisture-wicking, quick-drying hiking socks (wool or synthetic)
- Multiple warm mid-layers (fleece or wool) - temperatures can drop significantly
- A warm, insulated jacket - essential for cold weather
- Warm hat and gloves - temperatures often drop below freezing
- Insect repellent
- A daypack to carry essentials like water, snacks, and sunscreen
- A backpack rain cover to keep your gear dry during rainy hikes
- A refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the tour (and cut down on single use plastic waste)
- Binoculars, in case you want to get a closer look at local wildlife and scenery
- A collapsible walking stick for long hikes (some travelers find them useful)
- Casual clothes for evenings and travel days
- Dressier attire for Welcome/Farewell Dinners and in case you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance
- Sleepwear and toiletries
- A universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other device without a built-in converter
- Any personal medications, including motion sickness remedies for bus rides and altitude sickness medication (consult your doctor)
- Your medical insurance card, in case of emergencies (pack this in your carry-on)
- EF Adventures handpicks every hotel you’ll stay at, striking a balance between comfort, location, sustainability, and local charm.
- Specific properties will vary based on your departure date, but are typically three-to-five-star hotels; always include private bathrooms; and usually have in-room safes for valuables. Additionally, your hotels will have Wi-Fi, but access may be limited to common areas. There may also not be elevators.
- Unfortunately, we can’t guarantee that your accommodations will have laundry services or facilities. We recommend checking directly with your hotels once they’ve been confirmed, about 30 days prior to departure.
- Some hotels on this tour are situated on narrow streets; as such, our buses can’t drop you off right out front. In these instances, you’ll have to walk your luggage to the property, no more than a few blocks.
- Please be advised that the air conditioning in South American hotels and buildings is often not as strong or cool as what you might be used to in the U.S. or Canada.
- Chile and Argentina operate on 220 volts and uses Types C or L plugs with two round pins or three round pins, respectively.
- At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website at cdc.gov.
- If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies please notify EF Adventures at least 30 days prior to your departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
- If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour and any possible delays encountered.
- Please be aware that you will be traveling at altitudes as high as 4,000 ft above sea level. These high altitudes can sometimes cause breathing difficulties for travelers who have heart problems or respiratory ailments. If you suffer from any of these conditions, please speak to your doctor regarding any potential health risks.
- Even healthy travelers may sometimes experience altitude sickness, a temporary condition featuring symptoms of headache, fatigue, nausea, and light-headedness. Until your body acclimates to the higher altitudes, we suggest that you drink plenty of fluids and limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol.
- Take proper care with sun exposure, as the sun can be especially strong in some of the regions on this tour.
- There are inherent risks associated with adventure activities such as hiking, particularly for those with pre-existing medical conditions. Discuss your planned activities with your doctor or healthcare provider for the best advice on participation.
- We recommend drinking filtered water and refraining from drinking tap water, even while brushing teeth. Bringing a backpack that has an interior pocket to hold water will help you stay hydrated.
- Avoid eating fresh fruits and vegetables unless they are cooked or washed in clean water and peeled.
- This tour includes eight lunches and five dinners: they may be set menus, buffets, family-style meals, or boxed lunches depending on the location. Dinners also include one glass of beer, wine, juice or a soft drink, as well as water, coffee, and tea.
- Breakfast each morning is also included at the hotel and is typically buffet style with hot and cold options.
- With its lengthy Pacific coastline, it’s no surprise that Chile is one of the world’s seafood capitals. Ceviche, mussels with salsa verde, and seafood empanadas are all not to be missed.
- While in Patagonia, be sure to try Patagonian lamb, a regional specialty.
- In Argentina, perhaps the most common dish is the asado, a series of salt-rubbed meats, ribs, and chorizo sausages cooked over a fire pit on metal grills and crosses. For dessert, try dulce de leche, a sweet, honey-and-milk paste in pastries.
- Tips for meals, bus drivers, porterage (if applicable), sightseeing guides, and local hiking guides are included in the price of your tour.
- At the conclusion of your tour, it is customary to offer your Tour Director a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
- We recommend tipping the equivalent of $15-$20 USD per person per day for your Tour Director.
- Tips can only be paid in cash.
- You will use the Chilean peso in Chile and the Argentine peso in Argentina. USD is also commonly used, especially in Argentina.
- Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
- We strongly advise that you take debit and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
- You can use most cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
- International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you don’t already have at least one card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
- Plan ahead and bring cash to tip your Tour Director.
- To help you feel prepared before traveling on tour, we strongly recommend downloading the EF Adventures mobile app. It’s free and provides information about important deadlines and entry requirements, as well as your detailed itinerary, packing tips, and more. You can also connect with fellow travelers through the app’s chat feature.
- Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
- There is no Wi-Fi on any of the buses.
- Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
Your Tour Director will be an experienced hiker who will accompany you throughout the entire journey. In addition to sharing their knowledge of the region's history, culture, and natural wonders, they will:
- Support the group during daily hikes, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all travelers
- Provide detailed briefings on trail conditions, weather, and altitude considerations
- Coordinate logistics and arrange meals and transportation
- Offer basic first-aid assistance and emergency support if needed
As experienced hikers themselves, your Tour Director will be well-versed in mountain safety and trained in high-altitude first-aid procedures.
- One of the benefits of traveling with EF Adventures is our on tour emergency support team.
- Our extensive network of offices around the world, and our integration of ISO 31000: Risk Management Guidelines, help our dedicated 24/7 Emergency Service teams anticipate and address on-tour challenges in a flexible and iterative way.
- This team supports travelers and Tour Directors using a combination of extensive training, simulations, incident response planning, and decades of experience to help manage emergencies if they arise, ranging from personal health concerns or injuries to major world events.
- As needed, On Tour Support can facilitate additional support for travelers on tour, arrange assistance from outside specialists, and liaise with local and international authorities to help solve on-the-ground issues. In addition, the team is dedicated to supporting and facilitating communication between travelers and families in the event of an emergency while on the road or at home.
- Chile changes its time twice a year: GMT-3 (September to April) and GMT-4 (April to September)
- Argentina stays at GMT-3 all year round
- When it's noon in New York:
- During US Standard Time (Nov-Mar): 2pm in Argentina, 2pm in Chile
- During US Daylight Time (Mar-Nov): 1pm in Argentina, 1pm in Chile (except April-September when it's 12pm in Chile)
- When you travel with EF Adventures, you’ll make a positive impact on the places you visit and the people and animals you meet along the way. That’s because our three core Responsible Travel commitments—protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting animal welfare—are at the heart of every tour we offer.
- Travel, when done responsibly, can have an enormous socioeconomic impact on communities. To maximize your impact, eat at locally owned restaurants and shop at small businesses. Ask your Tour Director to point out restaurants they recommend.
- Prepare for your trip: Be aware of monetary norms such as tipping and negotiating in a market; learn about the destination’s forms of etiquette; and take some time to learn a few words in the local language.
- When interacting with locals, make sure to ask people for permission before you take their picture, and approach cultural differences with empathy and an open mind.
- EF Adventures encourages travelers to limit their waste while on the road, especially single-use plastics. You can cut back on generating plastic waste by packing your own toiletries, using electronic documents, and bringing a reusable water bottle and shopping bag. If you need to use plastics or paper, please recycle.
- When visiting national parks, reserves, or other protected areas, please do not remove anything from the natural environment or leave any litter. Carry out what you carried in.
- When you come across wild animals on tour, take the philosophies of World Animal Protection to heart: Don’t touch or feed them, and maintain a respectful distance. The animals you encounter on your trip should be able to exhibit natural forms of behavior.
- Furthermore, avoid buying exploitative animal products, like crafts made from tortoiseshell or meals such as shark fin soup.
- If you feel we aren’t meeting any of these commitments, please let us know.
Love this itinerary?
This tour is also available without the Backcountry partnership on additional departure dates. Same destinations, same EF Adventures guides — more flexibility to find the date that works for you.
