Torres del Paine Pre-Extension: Exploring Patagonia's Jewel

Arrive in Puerto Natales and transfer from the airport to your hotel. Later, explore this colorful Patagonian port city set along the shores of Última Esperanza Fjord, learning about its origins and history. Take in panoramic views across the glacier-carved fjord (weather permitting), then visit the Puerto Natales Municipal Historical Museum for a deeper look at the region’s heritage. This evening, savor the flavors of Patagonia at one of the city’s top restaurants before returning to your hotel. (D) 

Depart from Puerto Natales, enjoying views of Seno Última Esperanza’s glacier-carved waters and the rugged peaks of Cordón Moore and Sierra Pratt along the way. This morning, visit the prehistoric Milodon Cave, where traces of the region’s earliest inhabitants—including cave paintings—were discovered alongside fossil remains of ancient megafauna, such as the giant Milodon sloth and the saber-toothed tiger. Venture into the 660-foot-long cavern to see its remarkable geological formations. 

Journey to your next hotel, located in the buffer zone of Torres Del Paine. Along the way, enjoy stops at various overlooks featuring the landscapes of the Paine Massif, the Grey Glacier and more.  

After lunch, choose between two ways to explore the surrounding landscape. Set out on an invigorating trek to a scenic lookout, watching for the famed Andean condor while taking in sweeping views of turquoise Lake Pehoé and the Paine Massif. Or, opt for a leisurely nature walk to a peaceful overlook above Lake Pehoé, with panoramic views across its turquoise waters to the dramatic peaks of the massif. Return to your hotel for an à la carte dinner featuring local flavors.(B,L,D) 

Spend a full day exploring the dramatic landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park, where granite peaks rise above glacial lakes, sweeping grasslands and forested valleys. Travel through the park by vehicle, stopping for short hikes as conditions permit and watching along the way for native wildlife and an array of birdlife. This evening, enjoy an à la carte dinner before retiring to your lodge. (B,L,D) 

Depart early this morning for a hike to the Cuernos lookout, with sweeping views of Lake Nordenskjöld, the French Valley and the rugged peaks of the Paine Massif. After a packed lunch, set out along the Miscellaneous Trail, a varied route through wetlands and distinctive conglomerate rock formations, watching for guanacos and torrent ducks as you take in views of the Paine River and Toro Lake—the largest lake in the park. Return to your lodge for an à la carte dinner. (B,L,D)  

Set out on a morning walk through the forests and open landscapes of the Serrano area to the confluence of two rivers fed by the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. Afterward, return to Puerto Natales to join your fellow travelers and prepare for your flight across the Drake Passage. (B,L,D)