Southern Winds
El CHALTÉN PATAGONIA
This journey blends mountain refuges with exclusive lodges in the untamed Patagonian Andes, weaving together adventure and wellbeing.
We invite the conscious traveler to experience the power of the Andes through high-altitude treks, boat expeditions, mountain biking, and packrafting -before reconnecting with rest and contemplation.
It is a transformative journey, where each day becomes a crossing between challenge and delight, and each return reveals a new way of looking at the world.
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Duration:
5 days – 4 nights.
Difficulty / Physical Level:
This expedition requires a high level of physical fitness.
Trip Overview:
The expedition begins at the Cagliero Glacier, rises in cascades to the remote heights of Cerro 30 Aniversario, and descends into serene forests and the tranquil shores of Lago del Desierto. From there, the current carries travelers to the intimate sanctuary of Aguas Arriba Lodge, where silence and wellbeing provide a haven. The journey gathers its full intensity with paddling and cycling along the Río de las Vueltas before coming to rest in the calm of a Patagonian estancia.
A route that follows the course of water, unveiling the forces that shaped the Andes of Patagonia—transforming those who let themselves be carried by it.
Trip Highlights:
Glaciers, waterfalls, forests, lagoons, mountain trails, high summits, Mount Fitz Roy, Cerro Torre, Lago del Desierto, outdoor adventure, and wellness.
Conservation Values:
The Southern Patagonian Ice Field and glaciers as climate regulators and freshwater sources; Patagonian-Andean forests and steppe environments; birdlife (Andean condor, black-chested buzzard eagle, Magellanic woodpecker, Chilean flicker, torrent duck); mammals (huemul deer, red fox, puma).
A Remote Place Is a Desired Place
· Transfer El Calafate – El Chaltén.
· Trekking to Refugio Cagliero.
· Overnight at Refugio Cagliero.
Guests are welcomed at El Calafate Airport for a private transfer to El Chaltén. From there, we head to Estancia Los Huemules on Provincial Route 41, the starting point for a three-hour, seven-kilometer mountain trek with 500 meters of elevation gain. The trail leads us to Refugio Cagliero, nestled before the glacier of the same name. This cozy mountain refuge provides comfort, personalized service, regional cuisine, and fully equipped facilities—where silence echoes with the sounds of nature.
Heights Where No One Else Goes
· Full-Day High-Altitude Trek to Cerro 30 Aniversario.
· Overnight at Refugio Cagliero.
The day begins early at Puesto Cagliero with a nourishing breakfast. After preparing gear, we trek through the Diablo Lagoon valley until reaching the via ferrata, where safety equipment is set up for the ascent.
From there, breathtaking views of Cagliero Glacier unfold. After 300 meters of climbing, we continue to the valley of the Twin Lagoons, overlooking Neumeyer Glacier, before pushing toward the summit.
At 2,029 meters above sea level, Cerro 30 Aniversario offers a 360° view of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, Mount Fitz Roy, Cerro Torre, and the valleys of the Eléctrico and De las Vueltas rivers.
After a six-hour ascent and summit views, we return to Refugio Cagliero for dinner and a second night.
A Forest Home, a soul encounter
· Trek descent from Refugio Cagliero.
· Transfer to Lago del Desierto.
· Private navigation to Aguas Arriba Lodge.
· Afternoon wellness at the lodge.
After breakfast at Puesto Cagliero, we hike down to Estancia Los Huemules, where a transfer takes us to Lago del Desierto. A private boat ride along its waters reveals glaciers, condor cliffs, and cascading waterfalls, leading us to Aguas Arriba Lodge.
Nestled on the lake’s shore, in a protected bay with views of Mount Fitz Roy and Vespignani Glacier, this “mountain home” offers relaxation, wellness, and serenity.
Pedal and paddle, an extreme day
· Mountain biking to Laguna Cóndor.
· Packrafting on Río de las Vueltas.
· Closing night at Estancia La Estela.
From Lago del Desierto, the group sets out by mountain bike along the Río de las Vueltas, crossing Nothofagus forests and reaching panoramic viewpoints until arriving at Laguna Cóndor.
The adventure continues with an afternoon of packrafting on the Río de las Vueltas, a winding river flowing from Lago del Desierto (506 m.a.s.l.) to Lago Viedma (250 m.a.s.l.).
After a day of full-on adventure, we transfer to Estancia La Estela for the closing night. Located at the source of the Río La Leona on Lago Viedma, next to the historic La Leona outpost, the lodge offers comfort, warmth, and iconic views of Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre.
Returning Home, forever changed
· Transfer Lago Viedma – El Calafate.
· Departure flight.
After breakfast, the group is transferred from Estancia La Estela to El Calafate Airport for the journey home.
What’s Included:
* Private transportation, driver & guide throughout the journey.
* Carefully curated accommodations, off-the-beaten-path routes, and exclusive sites.
* All meals included, prepared with local products and signature touches.
