Classic Patagonia Treks

• Accommodation: 7 Classic nights (hotels or hosterias), 4 Simple nights (refugios)
• Six days of walking, light backpacking necessary on the W-Trek
• Group normally 4 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 18

We schedule our Patagonia trips between October and April to take advantage of the longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures. During these months, daytime temperatures in Buenos Aires reach a maximum of 30C (86F); in El Calafate and Torres del Paine around 15C (59F).  The nights in Patagonia  can drop to freezing point, but often remain just above. Patagonian summers tend to be dry although rain cannot be ruled out, particularly in the mountainous regions along the Chile-Argentina border, you might experience all four seasons in one day!  Patagonia is renowned for being windy...and sometimes very windy (dress accordingly and watch your step).  In Patagonia the changing weather is part of the adventure, however in extreme wind/weather conditions our Tour Leader may modify the days itinerary in favor of passengers safety.

This trip is rated Activity Level 5 (Challenging). For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.

Itinerary: It is preferable to have experience of long walks in varied and irregular terrain. The walking is not dangerous or technically difficult, but you must be a confident walker with good fitness levels to manage the sections of ascent and long duration of the treks.  There are four days where you have to carry all your belongings with you on the W Trek (see What to Take section in the Trip Notes and the daily itinerary for details) so it is recommended you pack lightly and are happy walking with a backpack. Walking hours stated are given as approximates only. Timings stated include lunch and photo stops and vary depending on the group’s pace. You may find our Fitness Training Guide a useful reference.

Climate and terrain: Due to the unpredictability of the climate in southern Patagonia, you need to be prepared for walking in all conditions including strong wind. The weather can change extremely rapidly, making clothing and footwear choices important. The regions we visit on the trip are very remote so prepare to spend time in areas where facilities and services are limited. Roads are mostly unpaved and although well-maintained they can be bumpy and dusty. The maximum altitude that we reach is 2,950ft (900m), with an average altitude of 655ft (200m).

Internal flights: Domestic flights are included, based on a set flight schedule and cost. Depending on flight availability at the time of booking, there may be a supplement to pay. If applicable, this will be communicated to you at the time of booking.