Patagonia Collection Route: 14 Days of Adventure Across 4 National Parks

Brazilian travel writer Daniel Nunes shares his favorite experiences from a 14-day multi-sport adventure crossing 4 national parks in Patagonia, one of the most breathtaking regions in the world, with our Patagonia Collection program:

“Epic. Standing before the grandeur of the Torres del Paine, I couldn’t think of a better word to describe this incredible adventure. After two weeks of exploration, hiking, cycling, kayaking, and rafting, I realized something I’ve repeated after traveling to over 50 countries: Patagonia is the most beautiful place on Earth.

The new Patagonia Collection Route, created by Chile Nativo, Amity Tours, and Birds Chile, connects the fabulous natural areas of southern Chile, taking travelers through the region’s most stunning destinations. As one of the first to cross Patagonia from North to South, I share some of the most exciting moments from my journey:

1) Hiking in Conguillo National Park: 12 km under ancient Araucarias
We began our trip hiking along a unique trail in Conguillo National Park, where towering ancient Araucarias stand, surrounded by green lakes and volcanoes. This place, near Temuco, was just the start of our Patagonian adventure.

2) Cycling in Patagonia: Pedaling under the shadow of 4 volcanoes
A cycling trip through the Pucón and Villarrica areas gave me spectacular views of 4 volcanoes at once. Although the 70 km routes seemed challenging, the electric bikes made the journey much more pleasant. After the rides, a relaxing jacuzzi was the perfect way to unwind.

3) Authentic experiences with locals from Patagonia
One of the most thrilling experiences was taking a cooking class with Isabel Naguil, a Mapuche indigenous leader in Foye Mapu (Panguipulli). We also had the chance to volunteer in the restoration of the Llanquihue Lake wetlands and learn Kawésqar weaving techniques in Puerto Natales.

4) Hiking in Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park
A short yet challenging hike to the Chaitén volcano crater, one of Chile’s 90 active volcanoes, was one of the most memorable experiences in Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park. The 5 km trail with a 600-meter elevation gain allowed us to see smoke emerging from the ground, reminding us of the power of nature beneath our feet.

5) Meeting Kris Tompkins on the Alerces Trail
Meeting Kris Tompkins, the conservationist who founded the Route of the 17 National Parks of Chile, was an honor. During our visit to Pumalín National Park, we had the chance to learn more about her work and explore the Caleta Gonzalo Museum, a project in the area of the Caleta Gonzalo Lodge.

6) Trekking to Torres del Paine: An incredible experience
My third visit to Patagonia’s most iconic park was, without a doubt, the most impressive. We hiked 13 km from Estancia Lazo to Puente Weber, where we enjoyed spectacular views of the Paine Massif and the Green and Honda Lagoons. The highlight came when we reached the Lago Toro Viewpoint, where a rainbow appeared before us!

7) Rafting and kayaking in Patagonia: Rivers and lakes surrounded by mountains
Rafting on the Petrohué River and kayaking on Lake Grey, with the Paine Massif in the background, were unparalleled activities that rounded off this multi-sport adventure.

8) Hiking to Base Las Torres: The perfect ending
The final challenge was a 16 km hike through the snow to reach Torres del Paine. Despite the cloudy weather, the landscape cleared up just as we reached the base of the Towers, offering us an impressive show and closing our journey in grand style.

Conclusion: Are you ready for your Patagonia adventure?
If you’re seeking an authentic, challenging, and unique experience, the Patagonia Collection Route is the ideal choice. Enjoy a one-of-a-kind multi-sport experience through 4 National Parks in Patagonia, a destination full of natural beauty and thrilling activities that will take your breath away.”