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 Walking and Trotting, 16 km / 9.9 mi
- Night at Lake Brush Campsite (No showers available) (B-BL-BBQ)
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.).
We will meet our horses and the local gauchos who will accompany us along our first ride to Lake Brush, our remote and beautiful backcountry campsite for the evening.
Once we’ve prepared ourselves and the horses, we set off along a peaceful 4 hour ride, walking and trotting as we follow the Serrano River into the beautiful humid forests and views of the river and valley that stretches out around us.
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Day 2
Ride to Chile Nativo’s Deluxe Campsite
- 4-5 Hours Slow Riding, Trotting and Cantering, 15 km / 9.3 mi
- Riverside Camping (B-BL-D)
This morning, after we’ve enjoy a delicious backcountry breakfast, we’ll set out heading north across the Serrano River to the Serrano Village in Torres del Paine National Park for camping.
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Day 3
Round trip ride to Grey Lake lookout
- 7 Hours Walking, Trotting and Cantering, 17 km / 10.5 mi
- Riverside Camping (B-BL-D)
This morning we will awaken to a nourishing breakfast in the Riverside Dining Lodge before heading out on our ride today.
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 the 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 Tercera Barranca
- 7-8 Hours Slow Riding, Trotting and Cantering, 34 km / 21.1 mi
- Night at Estancia Tercera Barranca (B-BL-D)
After breakfast we’ll mount our horses and set off through Torres del Paine National Park.
Today’s ride is a long and slow ride past small lakes and postcard views of the Paine Massif.
Once we arrive to Estancia Tercera Barranca, we’ll settle in for the evening an enjoy a classic chilean dinner together as a group.
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Day 5
Round trip ride to Salto Las Chinas waterfall
- 6-7 Hours Slow Riding, Trotting and Cantering, 27 km / 16.7 mi
- Night at Estancia Tercera Barranca (B-BL-D)
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.
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Day 6
Ride to Estancia Lazo – Transfer to Puerto Natales
- 6-7 Hours Slow Riding, Trotting and Cantering, 21 km / 13 mi
- 2 Hour Transfer
After breakfast we’ll mount our horses and set off to Estancia Lazo, a working cattle ranch just bordering the park. Today’s ride is moderate as we gallop past the last of these magnificent views of the park and the iconic three towers from a distance. Once we arrive to the estancia, we’ll say goodbye to our horses and then enjoy a private transfer back to Puerto Natales.
Upon arriving to Natales, 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)
- One night at Lake Brush Camp (Based on twin-share tents)
- Two nights lodging in deluxe tents (2 inflatable mattresses and shared bathroom) (Bedding included)
- Two nights 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 Monte Balmaceda to Puerto Natales
- Guide (English-Spanish), Driver and Baqueano (local cowboy)
NOT INCLUDED
- Any domestic or international flights
- Any additional nights
- Medical expenses
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Sleeping bags and mattress (needed at Lake Brush campsite)
- Lunch on Days 1 & 8
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks in the hotels
- Additional alcoholic drinks in Riverside Camp
- Gratuities for Guide, Baqueano & Driver
Lodgings
Brush Backcountry Camp
Located off the beaten path on the shore of Lake Brush, this backcountry camp is a simple setting near an old gaucho hut also known as a puesto. No facilities are available such as showers or electricity, but this camp offers a one of a kind quiet setting with incredible views of the Paine Massif.
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 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 2023/2024: (valid until April 2024)
Private Departure for 2 or 3 Guests: Ask a trip specialist
4 – 8 Riders Total in Group: USD$ 4.995 per person
Single supplement: Ask a trip specialist
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.
-
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$10 per person, per day; given directly to your porter
These amounts are merely a source to help you or give you a general idea of what is normal or typical. Of course, tipping is always at the discretion of the group members as to what they deem appropriate for the service they received.
Add-Ons & Upgrades
PRIVATE DEPARTURES AVAILABLE – PLEASE CONTACT A TRIP SPECIALIST TO PLAN YOUR TRIP!
OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT RENTAL (must be reserved in advance)
– Sleeping Bag (for Day 5 at Lake Brush): USD$ 6 per night
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.
