Repetitive AWE with the surreal breathtakingly beautiful views from Explora. Sense of accomplishment finishing long challenging hikes. Appreciation of and inspiration by other guests who were challenging themselves with the physical activity.

Life changing

We stayed at 3 Explora hotels. El Chalten was fabulous. The guides were wonderful, the hikes were many, varied and challenging. The food was terrific and plentiful and dining staff encouraged guests to try everything! The dining room had a lovely view. The openness of the common space was aesthetically pleasing and comfortable. The room was simple with pleasing details and was very comfortable. The staff was lovely, warm and helpful. I really appreciated the availability of KT tape for joint strains and super moleskin for blisters! Torres del Paine had the most beautiful setting and view from the dining room and individual rooms that was breathtaking and I will never forget it. Staff were lovely. The guides were also great and excursions were challenging. ( I was disappointed that the guides/hotel did not have as much support supplies for injuries as El Chalten. The location was remote so I could not buy it anywhere.) Some of the excursions were not available b/c of weather, but that is to be expected. The food was inconsistent and there seemed to be supply issues. Also, entrees and sides repeated from lunch to dinner, and day to day. Atacama was also great. Architecturally interesting and common spaces were expansive and comfortable. Individual rooms were fine, but not great views and not as comfortably furnished as the other Exploras. Food was good, seemed to be plentiful but not as interesting or well prepared as El Chalten. Guides were great, knowledgeable and enthusiastic. We did not realize that this was their rainy season (and did not hear this from Swoop either) so there were many excursions (and some that we had looked forward to based on the recommendations by friends) that could not be offered because rivers had flooded the areas. Overall, we were very very happy with Explora and would choose them again. It also was fun to meet interesting and inspiring people from many places.

Planned to be wowed by the overwhelmingly gorgeous mountains. Take whatever supportive supplies in case you have even mild injury. Pack light.

Yes....I'm not entirely sure the extent of it. Get out and do. Now. The world is massive. Our behavior has an impact.

Wish I had gone 10 years ago. I am active, but wish I was even more active.

Yes