Chile: Aysén & Patagonia

Exclusive Access | Only 12 People per Departure

Patagonia Paradise

The best of Patagonia minus the crowds—glacial peaks, turquoise lakes, exclusive access

Three Departures

Sold OutOctober 15 - 25, 2022

Sold OutOctober 30 - November 9, 2022

Sold OutNovember 27 - December 7, 2022

11 Days, 10 Nights

Each departure limited to 14 people to maximize our backcountry access

Price from

$6,300

Per person, based on shared tent/hotel accommodation

Questions? Text or call us
+1 (855) 219-8018

SOLD OUT – JOIN THE WAITLIST.
We will contact you if and as space becomes available.

Beautiful doesn’t even begin to describe this sunset. Overlooking a landscape of stunning, wind-swept gaucho country, cobalt blue lakes reflect jagged glacial peaks, rugged and mesmerizing. It’s only you and your companions, plus the cries of soaring birds and the occasional puma or deer-like huemul (Chile’s national animal) in the distance. You hiked every inch of the trail leading you to this glacial mountaintop to be rewarded with the stars shining over northern Patagonia, and it’s pure magic.

This is the Patagonia few have ever experienced. Over 11 unforgettable days we’ll explore the rugged and remote side of Patagonia, its towering glaciers and meandering rivers. We’ll hike through Cerro Castillo National Park (a more intimate experience than busy Torres del Paine) and be among the first public groups to trek through the new Patagonia National Park, the brainchild of Doug and Kristin Tompkins (of The North Face fame). Every step will feel like it’s all ours.

If you crave adventure in untouched wilderness, this trip is for you. Each day brings a new journey, six to eight hours of trekking in pristine wilderness, as we venture forward into the 752,504-acre last frontier of Chile. Join us in the Aysén, Patagonia’s lesser-known paradise.

Aysén & Patagonia Highlights

Who It’s For

If you seek epic adventure, peaceful solitude and stunning landscapes—this trip is for you. We’ll hike across glaciers and snow-capped mountains, through vast old-growth forests in parts of Patagonia few others have visited.

Activity Level: Hard

This trek is accessible for most age levels who maintain good physical fitness and are prepared for the demands of hiking in remote mountainous areas. We’ll cover 3-12 miles a day, and conquer wind, snow, stream crossings, rain and sunny skies—sometimes all in the same day.

How We Travel

In style! This trek is led by experienced local guides. Most gear—including expedition-quality tents—is provided. We carry our own packs (15 pounds) and sleep in single or double tents and cozy mountain guesthouses. All food is prepared for us.

Your Experience

“We want Chile to be internationally recognized for having the most spectacular scenic route in the world.”
Tompkins Conservation

Aysén Region, Patagonia

“This is an unprecedented preservation effort, an invitation to imagine other ways of rationally occupying our lands.”
Former Chilean President, Michelle Bachelet

Day by Day

Explore Chile’s Aysén region and experience first-hand why it’s one of the trekking world’s great secrets. Shimmering lakes, glaciers and snow-capped peaks as far south you can go without hitting ice.

Day 1

Bienvenidos a Patagonia! We’ll meet up at the Balmeceda airport in Chile’s Aysén Region, then head to Coyhaique to a quiet and quaint bed and breakfast. Coyhaique is engulfed by rivers and snow-capped mountains, lending to its nickname: the city of eternal snow. The rest of the day is yours to wander the region’s capital city—which is more of a colorful main-street town dwarfed by mountainous terrain—go over the packing list, check equipment and get excited about the week ahead. In town, we’ll have a welcome dinner full of local flavor, get more acquainted and then dream about the trek ahead.

Day 2

Our trek begins! After breakfast, it’s off to Cerro Castillo for our 15.4-kilometer (9.5-mile) hike into the nature reserve. Castillo means ‘castle’ in Spanish, and it’s easy to see where the name comes from: the jagged cliffs and black basalt crags rise around us and the flowing landscape like medieval parapets or gothic towers.

Following an old logging road we’ll begin to get our first peeks at the crystal clear waters of Patagonia. After entering the nature reserve we’ll set up at Camp Rio Turbio and eat a celebratory dinner before retiring to our tents and falling asleep listening to distant parakeet chirps and the winds through the lenga trees.

Days 3 - 4

Our mountain ascent starts this morning. Making our way deeper through the Cerro Castillo National Park, we’ll cross Peñon Pass at 1,300 meters (4,265 feet) before a descent along rocky scree and frosty terrain. Our guides will lead us past the hanging Peñon Glacier, a suspended frozen valley of icy tundra, before helping us settle into camp at El Bosque for the evening.

Next morning, we’ll start off passing by Cerro Castillo’s famous lagoon. You may have seen more than a few selfies taken from of this elliptical turquoise water nestled among snow-bound cliffs.

After an obligatory photo op, we’ll set out to climb Morro Negro, a 1,700-meter (5,575-foot) peak with vast slopes and earthy luster. The 8.8-kilometer trek will take us down to Camp Porteadores where we’ll set up camp for the night.

Day 5

To start off the day feeling lighter on our feet, we’ll leave our packs and take a short hike up to Camp Neozelandes to scope out the views. The North face—yes, that North Face—of Cerro Castillo bids us buena suerte on our last day in this amazing reserve. Gaze out at the glacial basin and get inspired by the great outdoors.

After retrieving our packs, we’ll depart the park via an easy hike through forested thickets of lenga trees and make our way back to civilization. Just outside Villa Cerro Castillo, we’ll sleep in style at a local guesthouse and enjoy the luxuries of a hot shower and home-cooked sit-down dinner.

Day 6

The morning takes us by the placid shores of Chile’s largest lake, Lago General Carrera, tucked on the divide between Argentina and Chile in the heart of the Andes. It’s had millions of years to develop its iconic rich blues through sediment called glacial flour; From here, we’ll drive to Chile Chico and make our way into the wildest, most remote part of the trip.

Our short hike and river crossing near Lago Esmeralda will present us with more cascading treelines and calm turquoise waters. It’s only a bit further from here to Lago Verde, where we’ll set up camp.

Day 7

Wake up to breakfast in a small lakeside shelter. We’ll fill up before beginning our journey to Valley Chacabuco. Our most difficult, yet most rewarding day, we’ll trek through the Gloria Mountains along the Jeinemini river bed, and over Gloria Pass to awe-inspiring vistas on the western side of Lago Verde.

We’ll be among the first visitors to this new park, the brainchild of Doug and Kristin Tompkins (of North Face fame), who invested $345 million to preserve wide expanses of Patagonia. We’ll be among the first to behold its sights and untouched lands. Take it all in before descending to the lakeshore and hiking to a newly renovated camping shelter. If we can muster any more motivation, seize the afternoon with another hike to explore Jeinimeni’s hanging glaciers—well worth the trip for more expansive terrain and crystal waters.

Patagonia 2022_Scenic view of Mount Fitz Roy near El Chaltén, Argentina, with rugged snow-capped peaks rising above golden hills and a clear blue lake in Los Glaciares National Park.

Days 8 - 9

The name Hermoso Valley means ‘beautiful valley’—that doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface. This morning will lead us through a breathtaking traverse through towering mountains and glaciers, threading our way through streams and narrow paths.

We’ll continue south through lush lenga forests before connecting to the Aviles trail toward Mount Jeinemini. This 15-kilometer day brings us to the Aviles Valley, where we’ll pick a spot to make camp for the night.

On our final trekking day, we descend the Aviles Valley and follow the Pinturas and Aviles rivers through changing scenery and wildlife like guanacos).

We’ll make our first steps back toward civilization across the Berkley bridge over the churning Aviles River. The Stone House, a historic refurbished old puesto, will greet us among the waving poplars and refreshing valley breeze.

We’ve organized transportation to take us to our accommodations for the evening, trading our tents for incredible panoramic lodging overlooking Lago General Carrera. We’ll drink in the incredible scenery we just toured, and sleep well under the Patagonia sky.

Day 10

After a filling breakfast to warm us up, we’ll celebrate our trek with visit to Valle Chacabuco to learn about the Rewilding Chile project—a 28-year old foundation started by Douglas and Kristine Tompinks—and the tremendous progress the region has made since adopting stricter mandates for conservation.

All this will help us work up an appetite for our farewell barbeque—the Patagonia way. Sizzling fire-roasted meats lovingly and artfully served with local spices and sauces will be the perfect way to spend our last evening in this untouched paradise.

Day 11

It’s time to say adios to our guides and fellow travelers. After breakfast, we’ll head back to Balmeceda airport for connecting flights back to Santiago, with turquoise waters and orange sunsets in our minds.

People Love Our Patagonia

Patagonia 2022_Breathtaking view of Mount Fitz Roy rising above the town of El Chaltén in Patagonia, Argentina, with rugged peaks, lush greenery, and a clear river flowing in the foreground under bright blue skies.
“
The trip was fantastic, the terrain was extraordinary, and the guides were exceptional.
Lila R.
“
The trek route was in some of the most beautiful terrain I have seen.
Richard P.
“
What a lovely Chilean BBQ with our guides on the final night! It was wonderful and so special.
Colleen G.

Where We Sleep

Through expansive mountainous terrain and immersive treks, every night will be a well-deserved chance to rest, relax and reflect on the day.

El Reloj

Day 1: Coyhaique

Owners Ángel Lara and Adriana Hidalgo have transformed a once-quaint guesthouse into one of the most prestigious, and comfortable, hotels in Coyhaique in the heart of Chilean Patagonia. Twenty spacious rooms with views, plus an intimate 'great room' to kick back and relax by a roaring fire.

Camping

Days 2 - 4 & 6 - 8

We camp for six nights in some of the most stunning—and remote—corners of Patagonia. We provide all the critical gear, including expedition-quality tents and cooking equipment, so we can experience everything the Aysén and northern Patagonia have to offer. We're experts at making camp life as comfortable and safe as possible.

Villa Cerro Castillo

Day 5

Just outside Villa Cerro Castillo, this quiet guesthouse is tucked along the Ibáñez River, full of bright-pink charm and glorious gardens. We'll catch our breath here and enjoy the truly magical surroundings.

Terra Luna Lodge

Days 9 - 10: Chile Chico (10/15 departure)

This is glamping as good as it gets. From panoramic geodesic domes to "nests" in the trees to "pirate" houses, Terra Luna is famous for its diversity of rooms with views of Lago General Carrera and the mountains. Watch the breathtaking sunset reflect off the glacial backdrop. There's no better way to connect with nature, in style.

Mallin Colorado

For our 10/30 Departure

A combination of rustic. cozy and serene, this ecolodge sit on General Carrera Lake and practically invites meditation. It's an ideal rest stop after a few days of hard trekking.

Book Chile: Aysén & Patagonia

Travel Dates

Number of Travelers

Payment

Reserve your spot today with a $1,500 per-person deposit plus room supplements (if relevant). Please see our terms and conditions for full payment details.

Price from

$6,300

Per person, based on shared tent/hotel accommodation

Can't travel on these dates?
Call us at
+1 (855) 219-8018

Looking for a Private Trip?

In addition to our Tastemaker trips, we also design some of the most incredible private travel experiences available. We are a full service agency and our travel designers are ready to craft your next adventure.

Design Your Trip

Questions?

That’s OK, we have answers.
Read our FAQs below. Or text or call us at +1 (855) 219-8018 to speak with a Modern Adventure Trip Specialist.

  1. What does the price include?

    Six nights of camping accommodations, four nights of hotel/lodge accommodations; all ground transportation; daily breakfasts, most lunches and dinners; expert local backpacking guides; porters; experiences, activities and tours included in itinerary; 4-season tents; fees and costs associated with any activity or experience listed in itinerary.

  2. What does the price not include?

    Roundtrip airfare to/from Chile; travel insurance; transportation to the trip’s meeting point; activities not included in the trip itinerary; personal incidentals including room service, laundry, etc; personal gear; gratuities for local guides. We will be joined for this adventure by expert expedition guides, each highly qualified in all necessary skills to safely guide us throughout the mountains. A Modern Adventure Trip Leader will join the group as an experienced travel guide, and the person to go to with questions or concerns on the trip. Additional support staff will include porters to help carry our group’s gear

  3. How difficult is this adventure?

    This is considered a hard backpacking adventure. This is wild country. We’ll hike anywhere from 3–12 miles a day over uneven terrain and up and down steep switchbacks, while carrying packs (15 pounds) including our own sleeping bag, mattress pads and personal items. This region contains extremely variable weather – it’s not uncommon to have blue skies, rain, snow and wind all in the same day. We strongly recommend that participants have a good level of fitness and are well prepared and have at least some hiking experience. The support staff that will be on this adventure will be with us for the entirety of the adventure helping us carry group supplies and helping us see the true Patagonian experience.

  4. What are the arrival and departure details?

    This adventure begins at El Reloj in Coyhaique, Chile. The closest airport is Balmaceda Airport (BBA), with frequent daily connections from Santiago and other regional hubs. Our trip ends in Puerto Guadal, and on our last day we’ll organize group transfers back to Balmaceda Airport (BBA). Your flight home should be scheduled to depart at 6pm or later.

  5. What are the accommodations on this adventure?

    We will be spending our nights split between a variety of accommodations. For the six nights we camp in the wilderness Modern Adventure provides expedition quality double-occupancy tents, as well as group-sized tarp shelters for enjoying meals in. Not only does including the finest equipment make camp life more comfortable, it also ensure we have all the necessary gear to stay safe and comfortable on our trip. In addition to camping, we stay at cozy mountain lodges and hotels as we backpack through the beautiful Chilean landscapes.

  6. Who is going on this trip?

    Each departure is limited to 12people, plus our trekking team and Modern Adventure trip leader. This trip is recommended for travelers aged 18 and above who are in good health and have some experience with backpacking. You can expect to be joined by a variety of guest including couples, friends traveling together and solo travelers. We’ll also be joined by local backpacking guides, porters, and a Modern Adventure trip leader.

  7. What if I am a solo traveler?

    Prices are based on double occupancy. If you are a solo traveler and want to have your own accommodations, a $1,000 supplement will apply at checkout – these spots are very limited due to the type of accommodations on our adventure and are available on a first-come, first-serve basis (see our Terms and Conditions for full details).

  8. What travel documents are needed?

    U.S. citizens staying for less than 90 days do not require a visa to enter Chile. The passport must have at validity for the entirety of your stay to be allowed entry. For citizens of other countries, please check with the Chilean Embassy or Consulate for information and requirements.

  9. What is the cancellation policy?

    We understand plans can change. Here’s how cancellation fees are incurred depending on when you let us know:

    • More than 150 days before departure: $1,500 per person deposit
    • 150–121 days before departure: 50% of the total trip price
    • 120 days or less before departure: 100% of the total trip price

    For the full details, please see our terms and conditions.

  10. Do I need Travel Insurance?

    We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance. Travel insurance allows you to seek reimbursement for your trip costs; if your trip plans change for unforeseeable reasons, or if you need to get medical help, emergency transport, and for theft, loss or damage of items while traveling. For best coverage, always insure the full trip cost within two weeks of your initial trip deposit and note that most ‘Cancel For Any Reason’ policies must be purchased on the date of your initial deposit.

  11. When will my final balance be due?

    Your payment schedule depends on how far in advance you book your trip:

    • At the time of booking: Pay your $1,500 deposit per person.
    • 180 days before departure: 50% of your trip cost is due.
    • 120 days before departure: Full balance is due.

    We’ll send you secure payment links and reminders before each due date to make the process easy. If you book within 120 days of your trip, the remaining balance is due within 10 days.

  12. Is this trip the right fit for me?

    Modern Adventure trips are active, immersive small-group experiences. Our itineraries often involve sustained walking and standing throughout the day, including stairs, uneven terrain, cobblestones, unpaved paths, and moving between experiences at a pace that keeps the day flowing for the group.

    These experiences are not suitable for travelers who require physical mobility assistance, personal care support, or significant itinerary modifications in order to participate. In many destinations, accommodations for significant physical limitations may not be possible without materially altering the experience for the individual traveler or the group.

    All travelers are responsible for informing Modern Adventure of any physical limitations, medical considerations, or concerns before booking, or as early as possible before departure. Please don’t hesitate to contact us before booking if you have any questions. We want every traveler to feel confident, comfortable, and fully prepared for the journey ahead.

MO/AD News

Modern Adventure founder Luis Vargas is recognized as one of the top travel specialists for 2025 by ​Condé Nast Traveler. This list includes travel experts for every trip and traveler imaginable.

Modern Adventure makes the Fast Company list of Brands that Matter in 2022. Next-level creativity and sustainable business practices build a brand with impact.

For the second year running, Modern Adventure is recognized as one of the top travel operators in the world by ​Condé Nast Traveller’s​ annual Readers’ Choice Awards, the most prestigious in the travel industry.

“I’d had Oaxacan food before, but few restaurants served meals like this—'celebration food' worth the effort only for births and weddings. And, apparently, for Modern Adventure.”

Read More