Wilds of Patagonia - Trekking Holiday Argentina
Chile
Factfile
Small groups mean flexibility and
informality
Your tour leader will be on hand to iron out
any problems and give informed advice on things to do, where to eat
etc. In towns we use clean, comfortable hotels. In El Chalten, a
lodge with dormitory-style accommodation is used. When camping we
use two person mountain tents. On the treks, all equipment (other
than a day pack) is transported for us, except on days 14 and 15
when you will be expected to carry personal overnight requirements,
including a sleeping bag. All trek meals are prepared by our local
cook, except for dinner on day 14 and breakfast and lunch on day
15, when meals are prepared by refugio staff.
Fitness and experience
To get the most out of this tour you should be
in good physical condition. It is not easy to grade the fitness
level required for the treks, since this is a subjective matter.
However, we have classified this trek as strenuous. We will walk
approximately six to nine hours per day. The treks involve several
ascents and descents (some long and steep). Previous experience of
hill walking and camping in remote areas would be beneficial. While
experience in winter walking and the use of crampons would be
beneficial, it is not a requirement. A grounding in the use of
equipment is provided.
Altitude
Not a major factor on this itinerary, since we
do not go above 1500 metres. Nevertheless, the strong winds which
periodically affect Patagonia during the summer months can make
walking much more strenuous.
Climate
NB This itinerary takes place within southern
Patagonia. Seasonal climate information below refers specifically
to this zone
May to October Autumn/winter. Cold and wet.
Snow often lying on higher ground. Proximity of oceans means that
temperatures rarely drop below zero at sea level. Short days. Not
suitable for trekking.
November to April Spring/summer. Average high
14 degrees Celsius, average low 5 degrees Celsius at sea level.
Typical feature of the climate here is strong westerly winds, which
lower temperatures significantly. Weather changeable and localised.
In general, the further west, the wetter and the further east, the
drier. Rarely snow lying below 800 metres. Long days. Trekking
season.
Personal expenses
We recommend you carry funds in US dollars
cash (mixed denomination, unmarked and undamaged bank notes) and US
dollar travellers’ cheques, which can be changed in larger towns
and typically incur a 5% commission. Cash cards are also useful as
ATM machines are available in most large towns visited on this
itinerary. Credit cards can be used in some restaurants and for
obtaining cash in certain banks.
The cost of the tour includes all meals while
on the trek, but you will need money to cover other meals, snacks
and drinks (approximately the same price as Europe); any equipment
hire; gifts; airport taxes ($25 international, $10 national);
optional excursions; extra entrance fees; tips; laundry etc.
Luggage & Equipment
You should bring a piece of lockable luggage
(e.g. holdall, kit bag) to be left at the hostel in El Chalten and
Puerto Natales while trekking. For the main trek you need
waterproof walking boots. You will need to re-pack into a day sack
(40-50 litre which you yourself will carry) and a kit bag, with the
bulk of kit and clothing, to be carried by horses.
For the Torre glacier walk you will need:
plastic boots or leather boots suitable for crampons, gaiters,
gloves/mittens, 'goggle' sunglasses. Crampons and harness are
provided, as is all non-personal trekking and camping equipment.
Plastic boots can be hired in Chalten. Advise us as early as
possible so that they can be reserved. (Please let us know if you'd
like to be sent a comprehensive equipment list).
Quick Links:
trekking holiday patagonia argentina chile
- introduction
trekking holiday
patagonia argentina chile - itinerary
trekking holiday
patagonia argentina chile - dates & prices
trekking holiday
patagonia argentina chile - booking enquiry
trekking holiday
patagonia argentina chile - before you go
REF: Wilds Patagonia (VAT) - AT0001
