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Patagonia Hiking

Patagonia Hiking

Escape the familiar and join Backroads in one of the most spellbinding places on Earth. Patagonia - a land brimming with natural wonders almost too magnificent to believe - has held fascination for explorers and adventurers throughout the centuries. Join us and you'll be rendered speechless by the sight of the jagged granite spires of the Torres del Paine and awed by ice slabs calving off the enormous Perito Moreno Glacier. Complementing this natural extravaganza are the comforts of our inns, including the incomparable luxuries of the stylish Explora resort, "one of South America's best hotels," according to Travel+Leisure.

Days 1-2 El Calafate

Take a scenic glacier boat journey through a maze of fjords and icebergs to the face of the famous Upsala Glacier  Hike the challenging Mirador del Cerro Carnero and look out over the Glacier Experience authentic gaucho life and take an optional guided horseback ride through the pampas.

Days 3-4 Los Glaciares National Park

Climb through ancient forests and take in spectacular vistas of our otherworldly surroundings  Strap on crampons and follow expert mountaineering guides across the frozen landscape of crevasses and ice formations of the most incredible blue From the  "balconies," admire the astonishing Perito Moreno Glacier, over three miles wide and 200 feet above lake level. 

Days 5-9 Torres del Paine National Park

Arrive in Chile's Torres del Paine National Park From our luxurious resort, hiking options with expert naturalists abound Trek to the base of the towers of Torres del Paine, hiking through lenga forests and along a glacial river Or, go horseback riding in the pampas with views of Macizo Paine Grande Take a private boat across Lago Grey, hike beside icebergs and enjoy a picnic accompanied by magnificent views of the Grey Glacier.

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LANDMARK LODGES: Premiere Inns

Estancia Cristina (2 nights): Embraced by forests, lakes and mountains, this historic ranch and mountaineers refuge boasts true Patagonian hospitality, fresh local cuisine and the perfect launching point for hikes into the Patagonian wilderness.

Hosteria los Notros (2 nights): Every room in this remote country lodge on Lago Argentino has an incomparable vista of the Perito Moreno Glacier.

Explora Salto Chica (4 nights): Called "one of South America's best hotels,"  by Travel+Leisure, this lakeside resort blends "stylish sensibility with respect for the land." Treat yourself to a massage, a swim or soak in the outdoor hot tub.

Daily Mileage Options & Cumulative Elevation Gain

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Day 9

Routes For All Abilities

Every Backroads trip is designed to appeal to a wide variety of interests and fitness levels. We know your pace may vary from one day to the next-and your traveling companion's may differ somewhat from yours. So we present a range of mileage options, and each day you decide exactly what and how much you want to do.

Activity Level Average Time Biking Average Walking Average
Level 1 2-3 hours 10-20 mile 2-5 miles
Level 2 2-4 hours 21-30 miles 5-7 miles
Level 3 3-5 hours 31-40 miles 7-9 miles
Level 4 4-6 hours 41-55 miles 9-11 miles
Level 5 5-7+ hours 56-75+ miles 11-13+ miles
2011 DATES
CLASSIC TRIPS

Guest Trip Reviews

The walk on the Petrino Moreno Glacier was one of the best experiences of any we've had. We were able to climb up and down over peaks and valleys, jumping across crevasses and spending 3 hours of unadulterated excitement and personal satisfaction on the glacier instead of a briefer and less exciting/challenging experience. The sequencing and varied experience---plus the unexcelled scenery---was superb. We count this as the best vacation we've ever had--particularly of the ten walking tours we've taken with several firms.
Janet Liberman - Thousand Oaks, CA

This was my first group travel experience, having always traveled independently in the past. I didn't quite know what to expect and whether I would like it or not...I loved every minute!! From our Backroads Trip Leaders to the local guides, I felt like I was in excellent hands doing incredible things in spectacular natural surroundings. I particularly liked traveling with my fellow Backroads travelers and getting to know them. Without exception, they were an interesting and extremely well-traveled group, and I loved our interaction. And I hope to see some of them again sometime, either on another Backroads trip or just a local visit. This Patagonian trip was a wonderful experience for me and thanks to you, Backroads, for making it so.
Richard Tigner - Atlanta GA

Chile's natural beauty left a lasting impression with its rugged landscape...Exploring Argentina is like getting a new present every day...Surprises are beyond every bend in the trail, and beauty and charm beyond anyone's imagination lies in the quiet villages and the natural terrain.
Jack McLeavy with Elise Lipoff - Tallahasee Magazine

This was my favorite of all of the Backroads trips I have taken. What a great adventure! The food and wine on this trip were incredible at every location. It far exceeded my expectations, and every meal made my taste buds dance with happiness. I have never found a company I like more than Backroads. It truly is my number one travel company!
Patsy Gleason - Green Valley, AZ

I just loved every aspect of the trip. The hiking and the views were unbeatable. I particularly loved the remoteness of all the locations. All of our guides were wonderful and very knowledgeable.
Julie Jenkins - Holderness, NH