Make the journey from one of the world’s most isolated and stunning highways, the Carretera Austral, deep into the forgotten paradise that is Northern Patagonia. This 3-day hike over mountains and through the dense forest is perfect for intrepid trekkers looking to experience a side of Chile that few have seen before.
Welcome to Patagonia! Following a two and a half hour flight from Santiago to Balmaceda Airport, we will pick you up and take a scenic drive to the town of Cerro Castillo in Northern Patagonia.
Here we'll begin the adventure by hiking approximately 15 kilometers along the trail known as “Las Horquetas.” We'll follow an old logging road for about two hours, which gently winds through the mountain valley and passes the camps of local gauchos who used to take their livestock into the mountains in the summer months. We will make the first stream crossing here and get a glimpse of the crystal clear waters of Patagonia.
At the reserve entrance, we will register our details with the park administration and then continue hiking 2 km, until reaching Camp Turbio and setting up tents for the night.
After a restful sleep, the second day of trekking begins! We'll the Turbio River through the valley until the ascent into the mountains. We’ll then cross Pinon Pass, which has an altitude of 1,300 meters and has a challenging descent along loose, steep rock scree and even a small amount of snow (except February and March).
After making our way past the hanging Pinon Glacier and over the pass, we will arrive at the campsite, La Tetera Camp, where we can settle in and rest until the next day.
After an early start, we'll continue to the famous lagoon of Cerro Castillo. We can take a short break here to take in the scenery and marvel down at the valley we've spent the last two days hiking through.
Afterward, we'll descend down the mountain back to the trailhead and make our way to Villa Cerro Castillo. After a yummy lunch, we'll have time for a shower before heading back to the airport.
During this trek, you will sleep in either a campsite or a local guest house. While you shouldn't expect luxurious facilities, these options are comfortable and add to the charm of sleeping in one of the world's most remote and awe-inspiring regions.
Typical mountain tents are used with enough room for two people overnight in comfortable conditions. We provide all the camping gear but you have to bring your own mat and sleeping bag. Our team will set up the tents at the camping site.
*Note: Please be aware you will have to carry your own backpack, daily snack, mat and sleeping bag.
Regular Departures are available every Friday* from November to March.
*Recommended departure day.
The trip starts on Friday and finishes on Sunday with a pick-up and drop-off at Balmaceda Airport. Flights should arrive between 7 and 9 AM and should depart after 4:30 PM.
Active travelers with an adventurous spirit and a positive attitude will enjoy this trek. To have the best experience possible it is essential to be in good physical condition before you arrive. It is not recommended to regard this trek as a means of getting into shape or losing excess weight. Start a program of conditioning well before departure.
Minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 12 people.
Transport is in minivans that normally seat 8 to 14 people.
During the summer months (December to March), you can expect to have some nice weather and warm days. However, you also need to bear in mind that it may rain a lot, no matter the season. Please prepare accordingly.
Remember: the weather in Patagonia is unpredictable and may move between all 4 seasons in one day. It is recommended to come prepared.
Minimum age is 15 years old and they are considered adults.
Passengers need to be prepared for fluctuating weather that can move from summer to winter in a day.
Essential equipment includes:
The weather in Patagonia can be difficult to deal with at times. We reserve the right to change the order of the days in any itinerary at the discretion of the trip guide and based on operational considerations. The trip guide can modify, change or eliminate part of the itinerary based on safety/weather considerations.
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Updated October 4th, 2022
Dear Traveler,
We are very happy to announce that there are currently no travel restrictions in Chile.
Together with the above mentioned, it is mandatory to comply with the following requirements:
In case you have any questions, we will be happy to help you!
Best,
The Team at Cascada Expediciones & EcoCamp Patagonia