Patagonia

Patagonia, one of the more remote and spectacular places on earth, is the southern most point of land you can go to in the world. Shared by Argentina and Chile, Patagonia offers the hiker the ultimate backpacking adventure. From the Towers of Paine to the Grey Glacier this area is unparalleled in natural beauty.

Towers of Paine

To get to Patagonia you must first fly to Santiago, Chile, then catch a flight to Punta Arenas, then on to Puerto Natales, a starting point to one of the most popular hikes, the Paine Circuit, in the Torres Del Paine National Park in the Chile side. The circuit runs 62 miles in total (100 km). There is also what is called the "W" circuit. This route also has tremendous views of mountains and glaciers but requires only 5 days to complete.

The most stunning sight is the Towers of Paine, 8200 feet of pink granite and is said to have the sheerest rock faces in the world. This hike is fairly easy to do on your own but there are a number of guided trips which should be checked out. The weather here can be very unpredictable so clothing for wet winter hiking is a must. The hiking season runs from November to April with January and February being the busiest months. The average summer temperature is in the low 50’s F with highs in the 70’s. Also, there is no need to filter water in this area.

One way to explore Patagonia is by staying at an ecocamp. An ecocamp causes minimal impact on the environment and runs carbon neutral so there is no air pollution. It gives you the comfort of a hotel, with real beds, hot water, and great meals, and you are still right in the middle of the natural beauty of the Patagonia. The ecocamp also offers expert guided expeditions and tours of the Patagonia. Geodesic domes are built on moveable wood platforms and removed at the end of every season to minimize the impact on the environment. The shape also works well the high winds. While in your bed you can watch the spectacular patagonia night skies as you fall asleep. The ecocamp offers a variety of short and long guided treks as well as a safari trek where the hiker can explore the local flora and fauna.

The area gets its name from the Tehuelches people. When the Spanish first came to this area they thought these people were tall and well built thus calling them 'Patagones' . Every morning during the summer, buses and vans leave Puerto Natales for the park. It takes about 3 hours and winds through the mountains on an unpaved road. The best times to hike this area is January to April. Before heading to Puerto Nalales you must stop at Punta Arenas and try some of the local cuisine. Fish like hake, sea bass and conger eel as well as oysters, spider crab and snails are local favourites. You must also try lamb on the barbecue and guanaco (ostrich stew). And to warm you up on the cold nights, a little ona-crema which is a mix of brandy, coffee liquor and whipped cream.

 

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Photographs from 'Luis Hernan Herreros' of Cascada Travel