We’ll start each day early (depending on the sunrise time at winter in Torres del Paine, which can be between 8:50 - 9:50 AM), observing the sunrise from new locations while enjoying hot coffee and breakfast on the go (or at the accommodations, depending on the schedule).
Our operating area is known as The land of the Puma because it boasts the highest concentration of these majestic creatures in the world. However, it is important to remember that pumas are wild animals and cannot be controlled or fed. As a result, we cannot guarantee a 100% sighting. To maximize your chances of encountering these elusive creatures we will visit the area for 3 days accompanied by a skilled puma tracker.
Winter days are short, with approximately 8 hours of sunlight, so our day is spent 100% in the field, searching for pumas. Together with our tracker, we will divide the search into different areas of the ranch to cover more ground and thus be able to find a puma roaming its territory. Through radio, we will be communicating with our puma tracker if anybody locates a puma and where. When we find a puma, our tracker will continue searching, trying to find other pumas, giving us more scenarios, and observing different individuals. Around noon, we take a break to eat, and drink something hot, before we continue the search. Around 5 pm when the light begins to dim, we will head back to our lodging to recharge batteries, backup photos, share a delicious dinner, and rest.
On the afternoon/night of Day 4, we will be driven towards the Grey Lake area where Hotel Lago Grey is located to then spend the night there.
On Day 5, our attention will shift towards exploring the diverse array of wildlife that inhabit the Park, allowing us to encounter the puma's fascinating companions in a different area of the National Park.
Please note: In the event of bad weather, alternative activities will be planned according to the situation and area of the Park we are located.
Overnight at Hotel Estancia Ovejero Patagón (Nights 1, 2 & 3) & Hotel Lago Grey (Nights 4 & 5).
Immerse yourself in the vast and breathtaking Patagonian steppe at Hotel Estancia Ovejero Patagónico. Here, amidst the rugged beauty, you will find this extraordinary hotel, you are invited to uncover the wonders of countryside activities in the heart of Cerro Castillo, where the owning family has dedicated themselves for generations, just a stone's throw away from Torres del Paine National Park.
Nestled on the shores of Grey Lake, encompassed by a glistening glacier, majestic granite peaks, lush forests, and meandering rivers, this hotel offers the perfect haven for a remarkable Torres del Paine National Park escape. Delight in an array of exceptional services and amenities available year-round. Prepare for an unparalleled adventure in this enchanting corner of Chilean Patagonia that will leave an indelible mark on your heart.
Regular departures on fixed dates as specified below.
Fixed Dates Winter 2024
For other dates during winter or spring season, just contact us!.
The minimum age to participate in this program is 18 years.
The trip starts and ends in Punta Arenas or Puerto Natales. All flights should ideally arrive before 9:30 AM on the first day. All onward flights should ideally leave after 8 PM on the last day.
This trip does not demand a high level of physical fitness to perform well, but you need to consider that tracking wild animals can involve spending several hours outdoors either taking short walks or waiting in specific spots until the sightings occur. All trails visited in the programs are under 1,000m / 3,000ft high so travelers don’t need to worry about altitude.
In Torres del Paine and throughout Patagonia, transportation is in minivans that seat from 8 to 14 people. Pick-up/drop-off times shown in the Weekly Transfer Board are approximate and will be confirmed by our local operations team. An exclusive emergency number will be available for anyone needing additional support while they are in Chile.
For the puma tracking days, transportation will be in comfortable 4x4 vehicles that can fit up to 3 passengers.
The Patagonian Andes are exposed to winds that circle the Antarctic landmass. In addition, the strong marine influence and the Southern Patagonia Icefield make the weather hard to predict.
The temperature in winter ranges between -2ºC (28ºF) and 6ºC (43ºF). June, July, and August are the wettest months in Torres del Paine and sub-zero temperatures are common. Nevertheless, the wind is relatively mild in winter. Just as quickly as the weather turns nasty, it can become lovely and sunny so come prepared for all types of weather!
If possible, please bring clothes of neutral colors like brown, black, gray, camouflage, etc. to blend in with the environment. Sometimes we will have to walk, and sometimes we will stand still for hours, observing/photographing a puma: considerate walking shoes and warm clothes for all kinds of weather.
Are you wondering about photography equipment? We got you! take a look at our What to bring to Patagonia for Photographers.
The weather in Patagonia can be difficult at times. We reserve the right to change the order of the days in any itinerary at the discretion of the trip guide based on operational considerations. The trip guide can modify, change or eliminate any part of the itinerary according to these 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
