Stella spent the Christmas period on a 9 day Full Circuit Trek in Torres del Paine, followed by 6 days of trekking around Los Glaciares. Here she tells us about her experiences…
What was the highlight of your trip?
The Full Circuit was fantastic, as was our guide, Julieta.
Did you manage to visit anywhere else in Chile or Argentina on your trip?
We spent a couple of nights in Buenos Aires.
How well did Swoop Patagonia do helping you plan your holiday, and finding the best trip or operator for you?
Very well. Many thanks.
How were the operators we put you in contact with in Torres del Paine and El Chalten, and how were their guides on the trip?
The operator in Torres del Paine, and their guide (Julieta) were excellent. Everything went like clockwork and we were very well looked after. This part of the trip couldn’t have been better.
The guide in El Chalten was very cautious and didn’t like to walk in rain or wind. Our first hike was cut to just 8km instead of 22 because he thought a storm was coming – none did -just think he wanted to get back early. On our second hike he wanted to stop us going to the peak because it was gusty but we managed to go – we didn’t think it was that bad.
Was there anything that you wish had happened differently/or not happened at all?
We had difficulty getting a veggie packed lunch from them on both days, but Zoe apologised profusely for lunch errors.
The bus was often late, and although our bus transfer from Puerto Natales to Calafate was supposed to be at 8am from our hotel as per our schedule, it ended up being at 6.40am (after getting back from the Full Circuit at 10pm the night before), which was a killer!
Do you have any tips for other people who are planning a trip?
Ask for Julieta if walking with this operator in Torres del Paine.
Take a washing line –ours was invaluable!
Gaiters weren’t on the kit list but we felt they were essential for stream crossings after heavy rain and deep snow on the pass. We also found that walking poles (2each) were essential.
