This
unique and personal exploration of Patagonias famous Torres del
Paine National Park and the encounter with the historical and the modern
Patagonian way of life will be an unforgettable experience for the discerning
modern traveler. Explorations are held flexible and can always be adjusted
to the interests and preferences of the guests, thanks to your own personal
and experienced guide. Overnights in the National Park area will be at
Lodge Cerro Guido which has preserved the Estancia´s historical
patrimony and traditions. It continues to be a fully functioning farm
with some 90,000 hectares and 50,000 sheep. The estancia has conserved
the English style and structure which characterized its first years. Any
modernization carried out has not affected the taste of that era. Guests
are invited to learn about the typical way of life, the customs of the
Baqueanos (local cowboys) and of all the people who live in this wonderful
place.
The area surrounding Cerro Guido is full
of local history and is located at the foot of the Sierra Contreras, 104
km north of Puerto Natales and 40 km from the entrance to the Torres del
Paine National Park (Laguna Amarga Sector). Estancia Cerro Guido has around
20 old buildings. The administration building, office, workers´
houses, kitchen-bakery, public school, shearing shed, carpentry workshop,
ironworks workshop, dairy and stables are just some of the interesting
buildings which provide a real taste of the olden days.
Day
1: Punta Arenas
After the arrival in Punta Arenas Airport, transfer to your hotel in Punta
Arenas. After check, in we will take you to discover the great magic of
one of the most southerly cities in the World. You will enjoy the fantastic
view of the Strait of Magellan and visit the historic and cultural highlights
of Punta Arenas during an extensive city tour. Cocktail drink and dinner
will take place in one of the best local restaurants, which enhances the
flavours and colours of the Patagonian Cuisine. Overnight in Hotel Cabo
de Hornos, overlooking the historical square. (D)
Day 2: Punta Arenas Puerto Natales
Lodge Cerro Guido
After breakfast we will start our trip towards the Torres del Paine. On
the way we will stop several times to experience the Patagonian wildlife
and culture. Our first stop is at the Otway Penguin Colony; during our
hike of approximately an hour we enjoy the unusual habits of the Magellan
penguins that breed on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. Our next stop
is Puerto Natales, where we learn about the local culture and handicrafts.
Before we move on we enjoy a typical Patagonian meal in a select restaurant
in Natales. We continue through the extensive steppes and may spot typical
animals like the rheas, foxes and guanacos, as well as a great variety
of birds. In the afternoon, we arrive at the Lodge Cerro Guido, situated
on the premises of an authentic working sheep farm. After checking in
and time to relax, we have time to explore the amazing installations of
this
historical Estancia. Afterwards, a superb cocktail and dinner
is offered while enjoying amazing views of the towering peaks of Torres
del Paine. Overnight at the lodge. (B, L, D)
Day 3: Torres del Paine National Park
After breakfast, we set out to explore the wonders of the magnificent
Torres del Paine National Park. Throughout the National Park we enjoy
the rich beauty of the natural surroundings, flora and fauna. We visit
the main highlights like Lake Nordenskjold and Pehoé, and the falls
at Salto Grande. After crossing the park from east to west we will take
a break and have lunch at a pleasant Inn with beautiful views towards
the famous Grey Glacier. After lunch, we embark a boat and sail all the
way up to the glaciers front wall, which is divided in two by a
central island where landing is allowed. In the late afternoon, we return
to Estancia Cerro Guido to enjoy our dinner and overnight at the Lodge.
(B, L, D)
Day 4: Torres del Paine National Park
& Life on the Estancia
After breakfast, we will head to the eastern side of the National Park.
After a short drive we will explore the surroundings of Laguna Amarga
and the cascades of Rio Paine, and enjoy an easy hike at Laguna Azul,
where one frequently observes Guanacos herding in larger groups. We return
to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon we choose one of the several
local activities on the Estancia, such as a nice and easy horse back riding
up the hills, bird watching explorations, or participate in one of the
farm activities at the Estancia. Farewell cocktail and exclusive dinner
at the Lodge.
Overnight. (B, L, D)
Day 5: Cerro Guido Punta Arenas
After breakfast, we prepare for our departure and drive to the airport of
Punta Arenas. (B, BL)
Price per person in US$ Oct. 1, 2010
- April 30, 2011: $2168 double, $3904 single
Program includes: 4 overnights with
breakfast; all meals (lunch boxes; lunch, and dinner) with soft drinks
and wine; transfers and excursions on private basis with driver and bilingual
guide, entrance fees, horseback riding on Estancia Cerro Guido; Boat Excursion
to Glaciar Grey.