James returned in November from a W Trek in Torres del Paine. Here he tells us about his experiences on the trip and in booking with Swoop and our partners…
We had a great time in Chile! We spent just over two weeks in Chile in total travelling up to the North and then the South. The highlight for me was definitely Torres de Paine.
How were Swoop Patagonia?
Swoop Patagonia were excellent from start to finish; always very prompt in replying and very informative. I asked a lot of questions before the trip (!) but always got useful answers. You and your colleagues were very helpful thank you. I would certainly recommend you to others.
How were Swoop’s partners in Chile?
Again, excellent. Always very helpful before the trip and the itinerary was very good. I certainly came away wishing I could do more. I preferred the longer days (7-8 hrs walking) but I appreciate its very difficult to cater for everyone.
Our guide, Victor was brilliant. It wasn’t easy for him because our group was very varied in walking speeds etc but I think he handled the group very well. We all got on so well, and this was partly because of Victor as he is very good at engaging everyone as a group. He always looked after us all (and provided plenty of ginger tea!). It was lovely he came out and had a meal with us all after the trek as in the picture.
Do you have any tips for other people planning a trip to Patagonia?
Chile is a country where you really have to plan ahead before you travel there – especially if on a tight schedule like we were. But with the help of companies such as Swoop Patagonia it makes it easier. And of course ‘The lonely Planet’!
Is there anything you would have changed about your trip?
One thing I would have done differently is we spent our last day in Punta Arenas. We didn’t really like this town, however we really liked Puerto Natales – its got a lot of character and all the people are very friendly – so I would suggest to people if had time spend a day in Puerto Natales rather than Punta Arenas.
So thanks to you all for helping make our trip a great one. We love walking and trekking so Patagonia is perfect for us. Just got to decide where to travel to next!!
