49 YEARS - ROCK SOLID
International:
North America:
49 YEARS - ROCK SOLID
International:
North America:
The TREK
10 Days
Chile’s Patagonia has some of the most dramatic landscapes on earth. Here the South American continent explodes in a dazzling display of islands, glaciers, icebergs and mountains.
This is a journey through a breathtaking realm where nature’s spectacle is on full display. You trek through the heart of Chilean Patagonia which presents a kaleidoscope of landscapes: from the jagged peaks of the Paine Massif that pierce the sky, to the serene azure of glacial lakes and the vibrant greens of dense forests.
Every stride reveals a mind-blowing such as the ethereal Grey Glacier, the sweeping expanse of the Patagonian steppe, or the mirror-like waters of Lake Nordenskjöld.
The TREK
10 Days
Chile’s Patagonia has some of the most dramatic landscapes on earth. Here the South American continent explodes in a dazzling display of islands, glaciers, icebergs and mountains.
This is a journey through a breathtaking realm where nature’s spectacle is on full display. You trek through the heart of Chilean Patagonia which presents a kaleidoscope of landscapes: from the jagged peaks of the Paine Massif that pierce the sky, to the serene azure of glacial lakes and the vibrant greens of dense forests.
Every stride reveals a mind-blowing wonder, such as the ethereal Grey Glacier, the sweeping expanse of the Patagonian steppe, or the mirror-like waters of Lake Nordenskjöld.
Patagonia
An Untamed Wonder
Our trek starts in the wild and remote northern reaches of Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park, where we camp amidst nature’s raw beauty. We hike the wild and rugged northern section of the “O” circuit, and are rewarded with an immersive experience in one of the world’s most spectacular wildernesses. It’s an adventure that tests your limits and enriches your soul, leaving an indelible mark on all you wander its path.
The Towers (Torres)
These colossal granite monoliths thrust upwards, their jagged peaks a testament to nature’s raw power. Carved by glaciers and sculpted by time, they are a hauntingly beautiful reminder of the untamed wilderness, where every trek, every step, is a dance with ruggedness and beauty in equal measure.
Grey Glacier
The Challenge
Tusker Trail’s Patagonia trek is one of our most demanding adventures, designed for experienced trekkers in top physical condition, ready to tackle rugged terrain and unpredictable weather in one of the wildest regions on Earth.
Our trek starts in the wild and remote northern reaches of Torres del Paine National Park, where we camp deep in the back-country, surrounded by raw, untouched beauty. Moving south, the journey transforms, with stays in charming comfortable lodges in the wilderness. We break the two sections with a beautiful boat and catamaran journey seamlessly connecting these worlds, unveiling the majestic Paine Massif in all its glory—a truly spectacular encounter with Patagonia’s untamed heart!
Patagonia’s Natural Beauty
In the heart of the Southern Andes lies a realm of untamed wilderness, a land where glaciers carve their majestic paths through jagged peaks and emerald lakes shimmer beneath endless skies. Patagonia is a poetic canvas of raw beauty. The windswept steppes whisper ancient tales of survival, while colossal ice fields guard their secrets in solemn silence. Here, nature unveils its most audacious creations: towering granite spires, pristine fjords, and primeval forests that beckon the intrepid traveler to explore its secrets. Patagonia is a true testament to the unyielding spirit of the wild.
Lodging on the Trek
Hiking and camping on the remote northern section of the “O” circuit amidst nature’s grandeur, we embrace the raw essence of Patagonia. Then we take a thrilling twist, transitioning into the vibrant southern heart of park into areas of the “W.” This dynamic trek promises an exhilarating dance between the two hemispheres of Torres del Paine, a symphony of Patagonia experiences.
The Paine Massif
Patagonia
Seasons
Nestled at the southern tip of Chile, Torres del Paine National Park is a rugged jewel in the crown of Patagonia located at 50.9423° S and 73.4068° W. This remote wilderness spans a staggering 925 square miles (2,422 sq. km) with a landscape as diverse as it is awe-inspiring. The park’s location, some 70 miles (112 km) north of Puerto Natales, places it on the very doorstep of the formidable Southern Ice Field.
In this land of extremes, the seasons are mercurial. Summers (December to February) offer long days and longer daylight hours, drawing adventurers from far and wide. Winters (June to August), however, are a brutal test of endurance, with biting cold and fierce winds that conspire to challenge even the hardiest souls. Tusker’s trekking dates skirt the edges of these seasons to maximize the better conditions, and avoid the trekking crowds. Seasons here are not mere calendar dates; they are chapters in a wild, unpredictable story that keeps drawing explorers back, year after year.
Trekking Itinerary
Day 1-2 – Arrive Puerto Natales
Hike: Route variable – Max 8.7 miles/14 km – 1000-ft/305-m elevation gain.
Way down in Chile’s south, Puerto Natales was founded in 1911, and long served as a main port, from which much of Patagonia’s wool wealth was exported. At dinner we meet with our guide for a pre-trip discussion.
On day two we hike the ancient archaeological trail to Rupestre Patagonia, where prehistoric cave art reveals the spirit of early Patagonian cultures.
Along the way we stop for a traditional Patagonian asado —grilled over open flames and served up with sweeping mountain views in the distance. It’s a journey through time, flavor, and the untamed soul of Patagonia.
Day 3 – Las Torres
Hike: 11.8 miles/19 km – 8-9 hours – 3291-ft/1,093-m elevation gain.
Our Destination: the iconic Las Torres trailhead, the starting point for the grand Circuit of the Paine Massif. The journey offers a visual symphony—electric-blue lakes, towering granite spires, and the chance to spot Patagonia’s exotic wildlife.
We start our trail with an epic hike to the base of the majestic Towers (Torres), a challenge that promises rewards beyond imagination. This adventure will have you navigating steep mountain paths, meandering rivers, deep valleys, and glacial moraine, each step bringing you closer to a breathtaking spectacle.
After lunch, set against this dramatic backdrop, we retrace our steps to the trailhead and make our way to the Hotel Las Torres, nestled beneath the mighty Towers. Settle into the comfort of your room, sip a cool drink, and soak up the views.
Day 4 – Seron Camp
Hike: 8 miles/12.8 km – 4 hours – 250-ft/76-m elevation gain.
After a delicious hotel breakfast we will be continuing on the Circuit trail to our first campsite at Seron.
We hike along a moderate trail, tracing the contours of the awe-inspiring Cerro Paine’s northeast face, surrounded by enchanting beauty of the Valle Encantado. Today’s destination is Seron, our cozy campsite.
Day 5 – Dickson Valley
Hike: 9 miles/14.5 km – 5-6 hours – 250-ft/76-m elevation gain.
At dawn, we energize with breakfast and set off in the crisp dawn light along the Paine River. Lago Paine’s calm waters are on our right and the looming shapes of Cerro Oggioni and Cabeza del Indio to our left. The trail winds through a beech forest, leading us to the stunning Dickson Valley.
Our campsite awaits beneath towering peaks, a secluded night retreat. In the evening, we revel in the Patagonian landscape, enjoying Chilean wine and snacks in this remote, beautiful sanctuary.
Day 6 – Los Perros
Hike: 6.8 miles/11 km – 5 hours – 2,132-ft/619-m elevation gain.
The day is challenging yet invigorating as you leave the valley behind and ascend towards the higher backcountry.
We kick off with a hike through the dense forest, prelude to an invigorating ascent. This spirited hike fires up your muscles and your spirit, preparing you to traverse the captivating Los Perros River. You cross numerous bridges, hiking through old-growth forest under the gaze of Indian Head Mountain. Breathtaking vantage points reveal magical vistas of the vast Dickson Lake, crowned by its majestic glacier and icebergs drifting downstream.
You navigate a moraine field, hiking to a promontory with mind blowing views of the magnificent Los Perros Glacier and its iceberg-dotted lake. Hiking past the glacier, you venture deeper into the wilderness to find your forested campsite, a serene retreat under the stars.
Day 7 – Grey Camp
Hike: 11.6 miles/18.6 km – 10 hours – 3,503-ft/1,067-m elevation gain.
Long day with an extremely challenging ascent & descent.
Today marks our most demanding hike, with a steady climb from the forest to John Gardner Pass. It’s an extremely challenging ascent, with rocky stretches and steep inclines.
Going higher, Patagonia’s vastness unfolds beneath us. Reaching El Paso, at the crest of John Gardner Pass, if the weather allows, we might be treated to the breathtaking view of the Southern Patagonia Ice Cap, a majestic landscape of glaciers, mountains, and waterfalls.
The descent is tough, through increasingly tricky terrain. The path, muddy and slippery, requires the aid of ropes, trees, and poles.
Our journey then continues with the steep Ascent of the Tears, with awe-inspiring views above the Glacier. Here we trek on rocky paths, a series of three metal suspension bridges that link the canyons – just before our descent to Grey Camp.
Day 8 – Optional Glacier Hike – Grey Camp
Optional Glacier hike
Day 9 – Grey Boat – Wildlife – Hikes – Puerto Natales
Boat – Drive – Hike. 8 hours
After a hearty breakfast at the refugio, we hop aboard the Grey Boat, carving through the surreal waters dotted with massive icebergs that drift silently beneath the jagged peaks. The air is crisp, the lake dreamlike.
We land on the far shore and grab a coffee at a cozy local café, then strike out into the wild heart of Torres del Paine by vehicle and on foot. Patagonia explodes – electric-blue lakes, sky-piercing granite towers, and elusive wildlife around every bend.
Your guide leads the way on short but powerful hikes—to pristine waterfalls, wildlife-rich valleys, and sweeping viewpoints that punch through to your soul.
After a day deep in the Patagonian wild, we head back to Puerto Natales for our final night at Weskar Lodge— where the comforts are warm and the day echoes in your soul
Day 10 – The Journey Home
The last morning in Patagonia always sneaks up on you. After days of wild winds, glacier-blue rivers, and vast skies, you wake up to a quieter rhythm. The adventure has left its mark — not just in your legs, but in the way you see the landscape and yourself. At the airport, it’s handshakes, hugs, and promises of future adventures. Patagonia has a way of inspiring you to pursue further adventures elsewhere.
Photo Gallery
