February Reviews

Oooh, impossible question. In general, experiencing the vast, spectacular, rugged landscape of Torres Del Paine--whether hiking, biking, horseback riding or mountain biking--with no other people in sight. The enormity of Perito Moreno Glacier. The remoteness and beauty of the Estancia stays. Seeing the wildlife of Peninsula Valdes, again, with no other humans in sight.

Reaching the base of the tower gave me a great sense of self worth and love. This trip isn't just a vacation or an adventure. It's for me to find myself and recover.

SO many to choose from, really there isn't one that stands out above the rest.

Hiking while surrounded by incredible snow-covered peaks and glaciers on all sides.

The highlight was definitely going over the John Gardner Pass. It was a tough but really rewarding day. One of the most magical moments was when we made it through the pass and had an absolutely gorgeous view of the Grey Glacier in front of us. I also really enjoyed going through the windy passes and fighting our way through the infamous Patagonian wind! It was a pleasure to meet other people on the trail and to discuss what we had seen already and comparing experiences.

There were lots! it was a real surprise to be offered White Horse whisky on glacier ice on the return trip from visiting Lake Dickson and seeing the glaciers. I treasured the moment lying in The sunshine at Lake Dickson while viewing The three glaciers and all the group became quiet just enjoing the peace and the spectacular views. Sitting round the campfire at the first outpost while the hailstones fell on us was certainly memorable. The views from my horse while riding were also very memorable.

Highlight was definitely all the hikes. The landscape and wildlife were amazing. The drive itself wasn't that great, except from El Calafate to El Chalten. However, I enjoyed seeing all the guanecos everywhere! We didn't quite meet too many people, but everyone was friendly that we met. Especially in El Calafate, when we had issues with our car and had to change our plans - the hotel staff were especially helpful. Seeing Mt. Fitz Roy, cloudless and framed by the beautiful lake was amazing.

The excursions in Atacama and the wake up views at Tierra Chiloe and Camp Patagonia.

Seeing the Gray Glacier from the top of surrounding mountains

Highlights were the hikes to Laguna de los Tres, Loma del Pilegue Tumbado and the French Valley hike. Non hiking highlights were having our Argentinian welcome dinner in Masden’s house and the dinner in the dining dome at Serrano River Camp where we saw a Puma stroll by. The best meal of the trip was in a small restaurant in El Calafate opposite the hotel which was recommended by Rosio, our guide. The vast landscapes were stunning and we saw plenty of Condors, Giant Woospeckers, Rheas, Flamingoes and Guanaco. We loved the plants, particularly the alpines on the Tumbado hike and the Nothofagus betuloides. Everyone we met was friendly. The other members of our group were great fun and we all got on well.

The expected and unexpected things we experienced on Day 4 from Los Perros to Grey Glacier via the John Gardner Pass. The mountains, glaciers, wildlife, and the gift of favorable weather to enjoy it all.

Walking in the beagle channel in my bare feet

Patagonia was a great place to walk. Lots to see and do. Open landscapes, spectacular mountain ranges and glaciers. We met some interesting people. Some of which were on a similar journey to us, some were more 'local'. Everyone seemed friendly and interested in our lives too! We completed the 'W' trek quite comfortably. We enjoyed the cosy accommodation and comradery of other trekkers. Everyone had their own agenda and were happy to share their experiences.

So many - reaching the Base of the Towers in Torres del Paine on a gorgeous day.

I wanted to experience two things. Silly, but the first was drinking from a stream in Patagonia. I did! Second, being able to get to Cape Horn. (It was always “weather permitting”). Also did that! I loved the hikes and the scenery was incredible.

Highlights were the continuous views of the mountains, glaciers and lakes. Kayaking at Glacier Grey was our magical moment of the trip. We had a great group and our guides were fantastic. Very knowledgeable and engaging.

The most memorable moment was being with my husband, siblings, and parents in a beautiful place without distractions.

There's not just one memorable moment. Every part of our journey had wonderful and unexpected experiences. I usually don't care much for big cities but I found Buenos Aires to be a beautiful and interesting city. The Lake District was as beautiful as I expected. Hiking around El Chalten was easy because most of the hikes start right there in town. The cruise around the Magellan Straight was relaxing after several days of intense activity with car rentals and several flights inside Argentina and lots of hiking; we were able to disembark in Cape Horn which was fabulous. Torres del Paine was the best part of the trip!

Highlights: Hiking to the blue towers in Torres del Paine and hiking to base of Fitz Roy in El Chalten. Landscapes in Torres del Paine (Cordillero, lakes, glaciers) were stunning. no wildlife to speak of on the W Trek. The Trek afforded us the ability to meet like minded trekkers, willing to get up early and challenge themselves on steep trails through wind, rain, sun , all for the the love of the outdoors. Most magical moment was kayaking 21km on the Rio del las Vueltas, with crystal blue skies, views and reflections on Fitz Roy, Cerr Torre on the river! Booked when we arrived in El Chalten, not through Swoop.

Beauty of chile and Argentina