Ice on the calm and reflective water in front of a glacier in Tierra Del Fuego, Patagonia, during sunset
Hiker standing on rock and taking Photos of the snowy and jagged mountain landscape in Torres Del Paine National Park, Patagonia
National Geographic small ship in front of glacier and two skiffs in front surrounded by ice in Garibaldi Fjord of Tierra Del Fuego Patagonia
Patagonian Scarlet Gorse Guanaco Bush or Fire Tongue wildflowers in Torres Del Paine National Park with mountains in the background
Three magellaic penguins on the grass in Patagonia
View Photos
South America Patagonia Cruise

Patagonia: Chilean Fjords & Argentina’s Staten Island

The Chilean Fjords & Argentina’s Staten Island is an embarkation into the unknown lands and islands of the ends of the earth. These rarely visited areas are known for their seldom-seen natural splendors and mythical wilderness. This Patagonia cruise inhabits all the must-see’s of the area, including glaciers, snowcapped peaks, dramatic fjords, lakes, towering granite walls and epic waterfalls. This nature-filled voyage travels through tight channels and is only accessed by expedition ship, for which the 126-passenger National Geographic Endurance and 148-guest National Geographic Explorer are ideally suited.

This carefully curated voyage includes visits to the wildlife-filled Karukinka National Park and sails through the Beagle Channel to view Cape Horn. Have the unique opportunity to explore the wilderness of the previously closed-to-visitors site of Isla De Los Estados (Staten Island) where Magellenic penguins inhabit and wildness abounds. Cruise around Observatory Island, a must-see island for birders, with its diverse and massive bird nesting colony. Visit wildlife reserves with animals such as condors, elephant seals, austral parakeets, foxes and sea lions.

Explore the incredible fjords, channels and scenic vistas via Zodiac, kayak or by foot with specialized naturalist guides and National Geographic photo instructors, both offering an in-depth travel experience. While aboard, guests can enjoy amenities such as a fitness center and sauna or even get a massage in the wellness center. Traveling through Santiago, Chile, this trip embarks in Puerto Natales and disembarks in Ushuaia, Argentina, with some departures operating in reverse.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Patagonia cruises and Patagonia trips.



Itinerary

10-Day Main Patagonia: Chilean Fjords & Argentina's Staten Island Itinerary

The 10-day main Patagonia: Chilean Fjords & Argentina’s Staten Island cruise embarks in Punta Arenas and cruises southbound toward Cape Horn to disembark in Ushuaia, Argentina, followed by a charter flight to end in Santiago, Chile (Nat Geo Resolution departures) or Buenos Aires, Argentina (Nat Geo Explorer departures).

A map of the tip of South America shows the cruise route in a red line of the Chilean Fjords and Staten Island cruise.
Read More
Days 1
Arrive Santiago, Chile

Arrive in Santiago and transfer from the airport to the Ritz Carlton (or similar) before a guided overview of this vibrant city backed by the inspiring Andes. Discover sites like the Plaza de Armas and get a feel for the mix of old and new that makes this city so great. In the early evening, gather for an informal welcome reception and a drink at the hotel.

Accommodations

Ritz Carlton (or similar)

Meals

n/a

Read More
Day 2
Fly to Punta Arenas, Embark Puerto Natales & Kirke or White Narrows

Today, take a commercial flight from Santiago to Punta Arenas, Chile’s southern gateway to Patagonia. From there, drive to the outpost of Puerto Natales and embark the ship. Be on deck to look for wildlife as the captain guides the ship through the Kirke or White Narrows—always a challenge to navigate because of the powerful currents that flow through its pinch points.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 3 - 4
The Chilean Fjords

Today and during the following days be treated to the spectacular features of an active glaciated landscape with hanging valleys and tributary glaciers. This region was navigated by Ferdinand Magellan’s expedition and it took most of November 1520 for his ships to find a way through the channels that lie between the continental mainland and Tierra del Fuego to the south. Look to make a first stop in the extensive maze of channels and islands of the Chilean fjords, where you may go out by Zodiac and kayak.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 5
Karukinka Natural Park, Tierra del Fuego

Tierra del Fuego is one of Patagonia’s crown jewels. Visit its newest and largest protected area: Karukinka Natural Park. Established in 2004 through a gift from Goldman Sachs, Karukinka is one of the largest donations ever made for conservation. Explore, with special permission from the Wildlife Conservation Society, this private reserve, which spans 1,160 square miles and harbors endangered culpeo fox, Andean condors, albatross, grebes, petrels, fulmars, shearwaters and many other kinds of wildlife. Visit Jackson Bay, backed by a skyline of rugged mountains and look for wildlife including black-browed albatross that nest on one of the nearby small islands. Perhaps walk a trail to a lovely waterfall and look for elephant seals resting on not only the beach but also high in the grass meadows and even in the small river draining the valley inland.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 6 - 7
Exploring Chilean Fjords & Beagle Channel

Experience more stunning wilderness while exploring the fjords and glaciers of the region by Zodiac, kayak and on foot. Take Zodiacs out to explore these protected waters and rugged shores, keeping watch for the Andean condors, albatrosses, grebes, petrels, fulmars, shearwaters and many other birds that inhabit this otherworldly realm.

Sail the Beagle Channel and look to hike and kayak one of the wild areas in this region of beech forests, mountains, and rivers. This southernmost corner of the South American continent is also home to Cape Horn, the island at the convergence of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, famously difficult waters that, throughout the centuries, has been the graveyard of many ships from the time before the Panama Canal.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 8 - 9
Isla de Los Estados (Staten Island), Argentina

With special permission to visit extraordinary Staten Island, your small ship is one of the only expedition ships ever allowed here. It’s a place of superlatives, barely touched in recent decades and visited primarily by a few scientists and those who staff the tiny naval observatory. The island was named by Dutch explorers in 1615. Its mountainous, forested landscapes and rugged fjords are beautiful. A great deal of interest is found here and the exact schedule will remain flexible to take best advantage of conditions. Look for southern rockhopper and Magellanic penguins, many other water birds, and fur seals, otters and sea lions. See the replica of the 1884 San Juan de Salvamento lighthouse at the end of the world, which inspired Jules Verne’s novel by the same name. There will be chances to walk in the southern beech forests. These days are bound to stand out as a unique chance to explore a very remote place.

Accommodations

National Geographic Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 10
Disembark Ushuaia & Fly to Santiago, Chile or Buenos Aires, Argentina

Disembark in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. Take a charter flight to Buenos Aires (Nat Geo Explorer departures) or Santiago, Chile (Nat Geo Resolution departures) and connect to your overnight flight home.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

One hotel night in Santiago; accommodations; meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar;  excursions; services of expedition leaders, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.

Exclusions

Mandatory charter flights between Santiago and Punta Arenas, Chile, and Ushuaia and either Santiago, Chile or Buenos Aires, Argentina (from $855 per person, subject to change); immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special payment terms apply for groups of 8 or more; inquire for details. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking. 

(For expeditions booked prior to May 1, 2023: Please refer to your invoice for your payment and cancellation terms.)

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The 10-day main (southbound) Chilean Fjords & Argentina’s Staten Island cruise begins in Santiago, Chile (SCL), and either ends back in Santiago, Chile or in Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE). Plan flights to arrive to Santiago by 11:30am on Day 1 of the itinerary in order to be eligible for the included group hotel transfer. Charter flights are needed to Punta Arenas (PUQ) for embarkation and from Ushuaia (USH) after disembarkation. Disembarkation is after breakfast on Day 10 of the outlined itinerary. Plan flights to depart Santiago or Buenos Aires no earlier than 9:00pm on Day 10. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

Group charter flights between Santiago and Punta Arenas, Chile and Ushuaia and Buenos Aires, Argentina (or Santiago, Chile), are required on this trip’s itinerary; see this trip’s Exclusions for pricing. There is a strict luggage limit of checked bags weighing up to 50 lbs from Santiago to Punta Arenas (overage is available and must be paid to airline) and 66 lbs from Ushuaia to Buenos Aires/Santiago (no overage available).

Activities

Activities included aboard this expedition include Zodiac cruises, hiking and kayaking. Other activities may include yoga and stretching, land treks, glacier viewing and wildlife observation.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Children under the age of 18 are eligible for $500 off the double occupancy rate. Skilled staff members trained with National Geographic Education organize activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

12-Day Reverse (Northbound) Patagonia: Chilean Fjords & Argentina's Staten Island Itinerary

The 12-day reverse Patagonia: Chilean Fjords & Argentina’s Staten Island cruise begins and ends with a flight from Santiago, Chile. Fly into Ushuaia, Argentina, to embark, cruise northbound around Cape Horn, and disembark in Puerto Natales, Chile. 

A map of the tip of South America shows the cruise route in a red line of the Chilean Fjords and Staten Island cruise.
Read More
Day 1
Arrive Santiago, Chile

Arrive in Santiago and transfer from the airport to the Ritz Carlton (or similar) before a guided overview of this vibrant city backed by the inspiring Andes. Discover sites like the Plaza de Armas and get a feel for the mix of old and new that makes this city so great. In the early evening, gather for an informal welcome reception and a drink at the hotel.

Accommodations

Ritz Carlton (or similar)

Meals

n/a

Read More
Day 2
Fly to Ushuaia, Argentina & Embark

Take a private charter flight to Ushuaia, Argentina. Fly over Patagonia before landing in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. If the weather is fine, there’s a chance to view the spectacular mountains rising out of the Beagle Channel while lunching on a catamaran cruise. Then embark the ship and set sail.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 3 - 4
Isla de Los Estados (Staten Island), Argentina

With special permission, visit extraordinary Staten Island on one of the only expedition ships ever allowed here. It’s a place of superlatives, barely touched in recent decades and visited primarily by a few scientists and those who man the tiny naval observatory. The island was named by Dutch explorers in 1615. Its mountainous, forested landscapes and rugged fjords are beautiful, and there’s a great deal of interest here. The exact schedule remains flexible to take best advantage of conditions. See southern rockhopper and Magellanic penguins, many other water birds, fur seals and sea lions. Also look for otters on shore landings and see the replica of the 1884 San Juan de Salvamento “lighthouse at the end of the world,” which inspired Jules Verne’s novel by the same name. There will be chances to walk in the southern beech forests. These days are bound to stand out as a unique chance to explore a very remote place.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 5 - 6
The Chilean Fjords & Beagle Channel

This southernmost corner of the South American continent is also home to Cape Horn, the island at the convergence of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, famously difficult waters that, throughout the centuries, has been the graveyard of many ships from the time before the Panama Canal. Sail the Beagle Channel and look to hike and kayak one of the wild areas in this region of beech forests, mountains and rivers. Take Zodiacs out to explore these protected waters and rugged shores, keeping watch for the Andean condors, albatrosses, grebes, petrels, fulmars, shearwaters and many other birds that inhabit this otherworldly realm. Experience more stunning wilderness while exploring the fjords and glaciers of the region by Zodiac, kayak and on foot.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 7
Tierra del Fuego & Karukinka Natural Park, Chile

Tierra del Fuego is one of Patagonia’s crown jewels. Visit its newest and largest protected area: Karukinka Natural Park. Established in 2004 through a gift from Goldman Sachs, Karukinka is one of the largest donations ever made for conservation. With exciting special permission from the Wildlife Conservation Society, visit this private reserve, which spans 1,160 square miles and harbors endangered culpeo fox, Andean condors, albatross, grebes, petrels, fulmars, shearwaters and many other kinds of wildlife. Perhaps explore Jackson Bay, backed by a skyline of rugged mountains and look or wildlife including black-browed albatross that nest on one of the nearby small islands. Or walk a trail to a lovely waterfall and look for elephant seals resting on not only the beach but also high in the grass meadows and even in the small river draining the valley inland.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 8 - 9
Chilean Fjords & Kirke or White Narrows

Today, be treated to the spectacular features of an active glaciated landscape with hanging valleys and tributary glaciers. This region was navigated by Ferdinand Magellan’s expedition and it took most of November 1520 for his ships to find a way through the channels that lie between the continental mainland and Tierra del Fuego to the south. Look to make a first stop in the extensive maze of channels and islands of the Chilean fjords, and conditions permitting go out by Zodiac and kayak. The captain and local pilots navigate through Kirke or White Narrows, accessible only to a small ship—always a challenge to navigate because of the powerful currents that flow through the pinch point. Be on deck to look for condors and other wildlife as the ship makes her way to Puerto Natales.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 10
Disembark Puerto Natales & Fly to Santiago, Chile

Disembark this morning in Puerto Natales. Drive to Punta Arenas, take a flight to Santiago and connect to your overnight flight home.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

One hotel night in Santiago; accommodations; meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expedition leaders, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.

Exclusions

Mandatory charter flights between Santiago and Punta Arenas, Chile and Ushuaia, Argentina (from $855 per person, subject to change); immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special payment terms apply for groups of 8 or more; inquire for details. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking. 

(For expeditions booked prior to May 1, 2023: Please refer to your invoice for your payment and cancellation terms.)

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The 10-day reverse (northbound) Chilean Fjords & Argentina’s Staten Island Cruise begins and ends in Santiago, Chile (SCL). Plan flights to arrive to Santiago by 11:30am on Day 2 of the itinerary in order to be eligible for the included group transfer. Charter flights are needed to Ushuaia, Argentina (USH), for embarkation and from Punta Arenas, Chile (PUQ), after disembarkation. Disembarkation is after breakfast on Day 10 of the outlined itinerary. Plan flights to depart Santiago no earlier than 9:00pm on Day 10. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Internal Flights

Group charter flights between Santiago and Ushuaia, Argentina, and Punta Arenas, Chile, are required on this trip’s itinerary; see this trip’s Exclusions and inquire with an Adventure Specialist for pricing. There is a strict luggage limit of checked bags weighing up to 50 lbs from Santiago to Punta Arenas (overage is available and must be paid to airline) and 66 lbs from Ushuaia and Santiago (no overage available). Luggage storage is available in Santiago for an extra charge; inquire with your Adventure Specialist for details.

Activities

Activities included aboard this expedition include Zodiac cruises, hiking and kayaking. Other activities may include yoga and stretching, land treks, glacier viewing and wildlife observation.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Children under the age of 18 are eligible for $500 off the double occupancy rate. Skilled staff members trained with National Geographic Education organize activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Rates are variable per remaining availability and are subject to change.

Oct 22 - Oct 31, 2024
National Geographic Explorer • 10 days
From $13718USD
Per Person
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Feb 27 - Mar 08, 2026
National Geographic Endurance • 10 days
From $15080USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Accommodations

Learn About the Small Ships on Your Itinerary 

Expedition Ship
National Geographic Endurance

The 126-guest National Geographic Endurance is the newest addition to the National Geographic fleet. This expedition ship is specifically designed for stability and sustainability as well as for in-depth education and an unmatched range of exploration in the polar regions.

Expedition Ship
National Geographic Explorer

The National Geographic Explorer is a state-of-the-art expedition ship accommodating 148 guests in 81 outside cabins. She is fully stabilized, enabling her to navigate polar passages while providing comfort.

Deals

Current Deals on This Trip

Add to Wishlist
Offer expires May 31st, 2024
Kids Save $500 On Select 2024 & 2025 Nat Geo Expeditions Worldwide

Save $500 per kid under 18 when you book your 2024 or 2025 departure from a variety of National Geographic expeditions worldwide.

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Offer expires May 31st, 2024
Groups Save 5% On Select 2024 & 2025 Nat Geo Expeditions Worldwide

Save 5% when traveling as a group of 8 or more on a variety of 2024 or 2025 National Geographic expeditions worldwide.

Expert Review

Reviews From Our Experts So You Know What To Expect

Todd Smith • June 17th, 2022
Expert Aboard: National Geographic Resolution & Endurance Ship Review

AdventureSmith's founder writes this firsthand review of the National Geographic Resolution & Endurance. Learn what makes these the best-in-class, next-generation expedition ships, from X-Bow design to on-deck igloos.

Testimonial

Hear It From Travelers Who Have Explored With Us Before

"What We Were Looking For"

Since this is our first cruise/expedition we had nothing to compare it to but I can say it met all our expectations. We had watched a CNN special on Patagonia and knew we wanted to go. The fact that it was a Nat Geo ship made it more attractive. Also the daily excursions were what we were looking for. We were never bored, but sometimes worn out in a good way.

Overall
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Accommodations
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Meals
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Book with the confidence that comes from experience.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

Extend Your Trip

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise

Want to add time on land in Torres del Paine to this cruise? Consider the Best of Chilean Patagonia: From Torres del Paine to Cape Horn itinerary for a complete land-and-sea adventure with the same fellow travelers and National Geographic guides throughout.

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5 - 7 Day Land Tour
Explora El Chaltén

Enjoy one-of-a-kind access to the solitude, Andean mountains, alpine waterways and stunning glaciers of Argentinean Patagonia. From the all-inclusive Explora El Chaltén Lodge, choose from a daily selection of over 30 guided, small-group explorations.

From $4370USD
Jan Feb Mar Apr Oct Nov Dec
Add to Wishlist
5 - 7 Day Land Tour
Patagonia Wildlife Safari

Discover the magic at the end of the world on a 4- to 7-day Patagonia Wildlife Safari! No matter the length of your stay, you will be blown away by the unlimited beauty of the world heritage site Torres del Paine National Park.

From $1235USD
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Sep Oct Nov Dec
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5 - 7 Day Land Tour
Explora Torres del Paine

This 5-, 6- or 7-day lodge-based trip in the center of Torres del Paine National Park offers over 40 unique explorations to choose from, including Base Torres and Grey Glacier. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Paine Massif and Salto Chico waterfall from home base.

From $2850USD
Year Round
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Patagonia: Chilean Fjords & Argentina’s Staten Island

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