Overview
Experienced riders will be talking for years to come about this adventure through Patagonia’s estancias and National Parks. Charismatic gauchos – their laughter, tales and endless “mate” tea – will accompany you as you encounter pampas, hills, valleys and four different glaciers. This 6-day all-inclusive program provides you with everything you need to enjoy the estancias, glaciers, lakes, rivers and waterfalls from the saddle. Spend your nights in our Riverside Camp along the shores of the Serrano River, wild camping, authentic estancias, and unique Patagonian hotels.
Trip highlights
• Navigate through the Last Hope Sound
• Ride from Bernardo O’Higgins National Park to Torres del Paine National Park
• Sleep at Our Riverside Camp & a Local Estancia
• Experience Varied Trail Conditions
• Ride to Serrano River and Grey Lake
• See Serrano, Grey, Tyndall & Balmaceda Glaciers
• Visit a Working Cattle Ranch
DOWNLOAD YOUR MAPS:
• TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK MAP
• MAGALLANES & ANTARCTIC REGION
DOWNLOAD YOUR PACK LIST:
• ESTANCIAS & GLACIERS PACK LIST
Itinerary
Day 1
Boat Navigation to Balmaceda & Serrano Glacier – Ride to Lake Brush
- 10 Minute Private Transfer
- 3 Hours by Boat
- 4 Hours Horseback ride, 12 km / 7 mi
- Night at Lake Brush Domes (No showers available) (BL-D)
Our day begins with a short transfer to Puerto Bories where we will embark on the 21 de Mayo navigation taking us along the Last Hope Sound and face-to-face with the steeply-descending Serrano Glacier at the foot of Mount Balmaceda (2,148 m / 7,047 ft.).
Once we’ve prepared ourselves and the horses, we set off along a peaceful 4 hour ride, walking and trotting through the beautiful humid forests and views of the valley that stretches out around us, reaching the Lake Brush, our remote and beautiful backcountry lodging for the evening. Here you’ll spend the night and enjoy dinner.
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Day 2
Ride to Chile Nativo Riverside Camp
- 4-5 Hours Slow Riding, Trotting and Cantering, 15 km / 9.3 mi
- Chile Nativo’s Riverside Camp (B-BL-D)
The second day starts with a delightful breakfast, setting the stage for another day of splendid exploration. Back in the saddle, you’ll traverse through Lenga, Ñirres and Coigue forests as you get into the renowned Torres del Paine National Park.
Along this journey, the terrain becomes more inviting, providing ample opportunities for invigorating canters amidst pampas, as we encounters creek crossings and meanders, and the majestic silhouette of the Torres del Paine massif gradually reveals itself, offering a truly awe-inspiring vista.
Upon reaching our Riverside Camp, you’ll be greeted with a sense of tranquility, where a warm welcome awaits alongside a relaxing evening and a vigorizating dinner.
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Day 3
Round trip ride to Grey Lake lookout
- 15 Minute Private Transfer
- 7 Hours Walking, Trotting and Cantering, 33 km / 19 mi
- Chile Nativo’s Riverside Camp (B-BL-D)
This morning we will awaken to a nourishing breakfast in Chile Nativo’s Riverside dining lodge before our transfer take us to our ride starting point.
A huge section of pampas begins our ride to Grey Glacier, giving us the chance to canter as much as we want! Once we reach Grey River we’ll start along a narrow path backdropped by incredible mountain views.
We’ll stop at the Pehoe Lake lookout to pause for a moment above its famously turquoise waters.
Continuing on, the trail to the Grey Lake lookout becomes more rugged. Lunch will be here looking over this icy lake and the massive face of Grey Glacier, whose waters feed the lake.
We’ll ride return via the same trail and reenergize ourselves with an evening canter across the pampas before arriving back to Chile Nativo’s Riverside Camp.
Dinner is served in the dining lodge before we rest again in our secluded tents.
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Day 4
Ride to Estancia Lazo
- 15 Minute Private Transfer
- 8-9 Hours Slow Riding, Trotting and Cantering, 26 km / 19 mi
- Night at Estancia Lazo (B-BL-D)
After breakfast, a transfer will take us to our ride starting point. We’ll mount our horses and set off through Torres del Paine National Park.
During the initial part of the ride, you’ll be treated to captivating vistas of the formidable Paine River and the expansive Toro Lake, the largest lake in the province.
After crossing the Webber Bridge, our ascent begins gradually. The pace slows as we enter a mountainous path, characterized by technical challenges, ascending towards the Toro Lake sector. This ride is an adventure that demands both technical skill and physical skills.
As we navigate through a mountainous area where the path becomes not only technical but also steep, we’ll alternate between walking and trotting across terrain that stabilizes in altitude, passing through various small lagoons, before finally arriving at Laguna Verde, situated in Estancia Lazo, we’ll settle in for the evening and enjoy a classic chilean dinner together as a group, made by our chef on board. Enjoy!
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Day 5
Ride to Estancia Tercera Barranca
- 6-7 Hours Slow Riding, Trotting and Cantering, 33 km / 20 mi
- Night at Estancia Tercera Barranca (B-BL-BBQ)
After breakfast we’ll mount our horses and set off to Estancia Tercera Barranca, a working cattle ranch just bordering the park.
Today’s ride is moderate as we gallop past these magnificent views of the park and facing the iconic three towers.
Once reaching the estancia, we’ll delight in a traditional Patagonian lamb barbecue, savoring the flavors of the region, and then take some time to rest, ensuring we’re fully rejuvenated for our final day of riding.
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Day 6
Round trip ride to Salto Las Chinas waterfall – Transfer to Puerto Natales
- 15 Minute Private Transfer
- 5 Hours Slow Riding, Trotting and Cantering, 19 km / 12 mi
- 2 Hour Private Transfer to Puerto Natales (B – BL)
Our destination today is Salto Las Chinas waterfall on the east side of Torres del Paine National Park, a route taken more than a century ago by Lady Florence Dixie whose 1880 account of traveling Patagonia has become iconic.
As we ride across pampas and plateaus we may see condors matching our speed as they soar the skies above us. We’ll stop for lunch at the waterfall before making our way back to the ranch via the same trail.
Our Private transfer will take us back to Puerto Natales, and we’ll drop you off at your hotel and say farewell.
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INCLUDED
- All private transportation indicated in the schedule
- All horses, saddles and pack horses during the excursion
- Riding equipment, including elmets, leather chaps, leather gloves, saddle bags, dry bags
- All meals indicated in the schedule (B: breakfast, BL: box lunch, D: dinner, BBQ: barbeque)
- One night at Lake Brush Cabin/Dome (DBL bassis, sleeping bag included, shared bathrooms)
- Two nights lodging in deluxe tents (double occupation mattresses and private bathroom) (Bedding included)
- One night at Estancia Lazo (2 bunked beds per room, shared bathroom for 4 people max)
- One night at Estancia Tercera Barranca (Pleasant farmhouse with private rooms and bathrooms)
- Entrance fee to Torres del Paine National Park
- Entrance fee to Bernardo O’Higgins National Park
- Welcome Drink at Riverside Camp (PiscoSour, Glass of Wine, Beer, or Sparkling Champagne)
- Navigation between Puerto Natales and Monte Balmaceda
- Guide (English-Spanish), Driver and Baqueano (local cowboy)
NOT INCLUDED
- Any domestic or international flights
- Any additional nights
- Medical expenses
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
- Additional alcoholic drinks in Chile Nativo's Riverside Camp
- Gratuities for Guide, Baqueano & Driver
Lodgings
Nunatak Patagonia
The Lake Brush Campground offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in nature near Torres del Paine National Park. Located along an old Baqueanos path, it provides basic comfort amidst dense forests and diverse ecosystems. Accommodations include small cabins for two and mini domes, while facilities include dining and kitchen domes, as well as sanitary amenities.
Riverside Camp
Far away from the crowded park refugios and campsites, Chile Nativo Riverside Camp is our fully supported base camp located in Torres del Paine National Park. This area is ideal for families and special groups setting off to the park or for those looking for an alternative and unique outdoor experience.
Estancia Lazo
Estancia Lazo is a cattle ranch spanning 13,000 hectares and offers picturesque views of the Paine Massif and Laguna Verde. This comfortable two-bedroom house features bunk beds and private bathrooms in each room, ideal for accommodating up to eight guests. Conveniently located adjacent to Torres del Paine National Park, Estancia Lazo provides an opportunity to experience the natural splendor of Patagonia while enjoying a relaxing stay.
Estancia Tercera Barranca
A family run 6,500 hectare working estancia just outside the Torres del Paine National Park. It has a remote setting and excellent views of the Towers to the west and a warm, friendly, cozy atmosphere.
Accommodation is in the rustic but comfortable guest house with a small garden adjacent to the main house. There is a lovely fireplace in the gallery/living area which has comfy seating and huge windows allowing fantastic views. Good, home cooked food, homemade bread and jams, tasty Chilean specialities and excellent BBQs and Pisco sours!
Dates & Prices
Program prices are determined on the final number of confirmed guests in a group. The per person price lowers as more guests join the group. Chile Nativo operates with a maximum of 8 guests per departure which allows for a high level of individualized service and an unforgettable personalized experience.
PRICES FOR SEASON 2024/2025 (Valid until April 2025)
4-8 riders: USD $5,695
3 riders: USD $6,795
2 riders: USD $8,495
FAQ's
Q: Where do I keep my luggage that I won’t need during my trek while I am riding in the park?
A: The majority of the hotels and hostels will store luggage for their guests who are staying with them prior to and after their travels in the park. If not, we will happily store your luggage securely in our office until the end of your program. During your ride, your backpack and other luggage or equipment needed for the daily rides and activities will be transported in a private, secure vehicle. Each day your group will have guided vehicle support along the way.
Q: What equipment is included in this program? Do I need to bring any of my own riding gear?
A: This program includes all the necessary gear and tack needed for this 6 day ride and expedition. Professional riding helmets, leather chaps, leather gloves, saddle, saddle bags, & dry bags are all included. Prior to beginning your first day´s itinerary, you will stop by our office along with your guide to be fitted comfortably for your gear.
Q: Are there restrooms and showers in the Riverside Camp?
A: Yes – there are 2 restrooms and 2 showers per gender in the bath house located in the camp. Hot water is available during the generator’s schedule which functions 08:00 – 23:00. We recommend that you shower at night since your mornings you will be starting early for your days´ excursion.
Q: What is the Riverside Camp like?
A: Chile Nativo Riverside Campsite is our own private home base located within Torres del Paine National Park. Perfect for families or groups, ours is a fully-equipped campsite located on the shores of the Serrano River, away from the buzz of crowded Refugios and campsites. We run all operations in-house, meaning we’re free to work with our own trusted staff, source local products, select the best creature comforts and control all the moving parts that make up an outdoor travel experience. Our double deluxe tents are located on raised platforms, protected against the bracing Patagonian elements. Inside, you’ll find double-height mattresses, cozy down covers and heaters that can be operated during the evening to ensure a warm night’s rest. Permanent, separate male and female bathrooms with hot showers are just a short walk from the tents (please note that electricity and hot water in the campsite runs from 8 AM to 0:00 hrs). Meals are abundant, delicious and shared in a dedicated dining lodge with views of the Paine Massif’s changing colors and spacious room to lounge, relax, and enjoy great company. Our buffet breakfasts, design-your-own packed lunches and chef-prepared three-course dinners are a nourishing mix of local delicacies and high-energy foods to fuel our days’ adventures. Vegans, vegetarians and guests with other dietary needs are more than catered for with a range of alternative milks, gluten free breads, vegan cheeses and soy products. And of course, beer, Chilean wine and Pisco sours mark the perfect end to a day’s trekking. Our own concierge is always onsite to answer questions and to ensure that your stay is as comfortable as possible. With factors such as generators, mosquitos and chilly nights in the mix, our concierge is there to advise when to close mosquito nets, charge electronic devices, close your deluxe tent and turn on the heaters.
Q: Should I tip my guide? If so – how much is appropriate?
A: Tipping can be a delicate subject and many different nationalities have different tipping cultures. Tips or propinas in Chile, are viewed as a reward for good service. When tipping, a good guide and guide assistance who does the job well, has good English and provides a great service, can expect 10 – 15 USD per person per day. It is usual to leave your driver or chauffeur a tip too. Normally around 5 USD per person. Please find below a tipping guide:
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Guides USD$ 10 to USD$ 15 per person, per day; to be given to your guides directly.
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Staff (waiters, chefs,Housekeeping USD$5 per person, per night
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Drivers: USD$10 per person, per day; given directly to your drivers.
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Porters: USD$10 per person, per day; given directly to your porter
These amounts are merely a source to help you or give you a general idea of what is normal or typical. Of course, tipping is always at the discretion of the group members as to what they deem appropriate for the service they received.
Add-Ons & Upgrades
PRIVATE DEPARTURES AVAILABLE – PLEASE CONTACT A TRIP SPECIALIST TO PLAN YOUR TRIP!
Reviews
As horse lovers from the Netherlands and looking for a new unforgettable experience we decided to look for a horse ride in the Patagonia area. After some search on the internet we came to the Chile Nativo site and found a perfect ride for us. From our point of view we had an incredible trip and would recommend Chile Nativo for arranging you’re riding tour, giving you the opportunity to really enjoy. For horse riding and nature lovers the thing to do at least once in a lifetime.
Jasper Brugman, Netherlands
I was blown away by this trip and will absolutely be back to experience Patagonia on Horseback again. Everyone from the office staff to the guide, to the Gauchos, and our driver was professional but fun, and the experience was better for getting to know these people. Being in the backcountry and seeing the landscapes up close was one of the most amazing things I have ever done.
