Glaciers of Paine on Horseback

Day 1: Boat trip to Mt Balmaceda and Serrano Glacier; Lake Brush

Your day begins with a short transfer to Puerto Bories from where you take a boat trip along the Last Hope Sound and approach the imposing Serrano Glacier at the foot of Mt Balmaceda (2,148m). Here you take a short easy walk up to the glacier viewpoint.

You’ll then take a boat across the Last Hope Sound to the Serrano River to meet your horse and local gauchos. From here you’ll start riding, following the Serrano River through humid forests to Lake Brush where you'll spend the night in the Nunatak Domes.

Length of horse ride: 4hrs, 11.5km/7mi, walking and trotting

Meals: Breakfast, box lunch, dinner

Accommodation: Lake Brush Domes

Day 2: Ride to Serrano River; Serrano Camp

After a hearty breakfast, you'll take to the saddle once more and continue to Torres del Paine National Park through deciduous forests to Serrano Camp. Along the way, you'll pass through some fascinating forested areas as you cross numerous creeks and rivers and at times through dense vegetation on little-travelled trails.

Northwards, the stunning view of the Torres del Paine massif will gradually come into view. You'll likely find very few other explorers on this trail which provides you with a truly memorable experience. You may have the chance to see some unique birdlife, such as the Magellanic woodpecker or the Austral parakeet.

As you continue there may be more opportunity to canter as the vegetation becomes less dense and the grasslands open up.

Your ride for the day will end at Serrano Camp where you'll settle in and enjoy dinner and a relaxing evening.

Length of ride: 4-5hrs, 15.5km/9.5mi, slow riding, trotting and cantering

Meals: Breakfast, box lunch, dinner

Accommodation: Serrano Camp

Day 3: Ride to Lake Grey lookout; Serrano Camp

After breakfast at Serrano Camp, you’ll start your day by riding to Lake Grey lookout. You cross huge pampas that allow you to canter to your heart's content. When you reach the River Grey, you'll follow a narrow path with incredible views of the mountains until you arrive at a splendid view of Lake Pehoé with its turquoise-coloured waters.

From here you follow a rugged trail. The lake is often full of icebergs, which have broken off from Glacier Grey, part of the Southern Patagonian Icefield – the third largest reserve of fresh water in the world. You'll have lunch in front of this magnificent view.

You'll return to Serrano Camp on the same trail, enjoying the opportunity for more cantering through the pampas.

Length of ride: 7hrs, 31km/19.5mi, walking, trotting and cantering

Meals: Breakfast, box lunch, dinner

Accommodation: Serrano Camp

Day 4: Ride to Estancia Lazo

After breakfast, a transfer will take you to your ride starting point. You’ll mount your horses and set off through Torres del Paine National Park. During the initial part of the ride, you’ll be treated to captivating vistas of the formidable Paine River and the expansive Lake Toro, the largest lake in the province. After crossing the Webber Bridge, your ascent begins gradually.

The pace slows as you enter a mountainous path, characterised by technical challenges, ascending towards the lake sector. This ride is an adventure that demands both technical skill and physical skills.

As you navigate through a mountainous area where the path becomes not only technical but also steep, you’ll alternate between walking and trotting across terrain that stabilizes in altitude, passing through various small lagoons. Finally, arriving at Laguna Verde, situated in Estancia Lazo, you’ll settle in for the evening and enjoy a classic Chilean dinner together as a group, made by your chef.

Length of ride: 8-9hrs, 28km/16.5m, slow riding, trotting and cantering

Meals: Breakfast, box lunch, dinner

Accommodation: Estancia Lazo

Day 5: Ride to Estancia Tercera Barranca

After breakfast, you’ll mount your horses and set off to Estancia Tercera Barranca, a working cattle ranch just bordering the park.

Today’s ride is moderate as you gallop past these magnificent views of the park and face the iconic three towers.

Once reaching the estancia, you’ll delight in a traditional Patagonian lamb barbecue, savouring the flavours of the region. Then take some time to rest, ensuring you’re fully rejuvenated for your final day of riding.

Length of ride: 6-7hrs, 34km/21mi, slow riding, trotting and cantering

 Meals: Breakfast, box lunch, dinner

Accommodation: Estancia Tercera Barranca

Day 6: Ride to Salto Las Chinas Waterfall; Transfer to Puerto Natales

After breakfast, your baqueano will lead you to the eastern side of the Torres del Paine National Park on a route taken by Lady Florence Dixie, whose 1880 account of journeying in Patagonia has taken on iconic status.

Riding across the pampas and plateaus you could see condors soaring in the skies above you. When you reach the Salto Las Chinas waterfall. After enjoying a gourmet picnic lunch you'll say goodbye to your horse.

A private transfer will take you back to Puerto Natales (approx 2 hours), dropping you off at your hotel.

Length of ride: 5hrs, 19.5km/12mi, slow riding, trotting and cantering

Meals: Breakfast, box lunch