Overview
The Puma is the largest cat in Patagonia and Torres del Paine’s top predator, yet very tricky to spot unless on a dedicated puma tracking trip, where we can see them in their natural habitat. They are gathered mostly in the eastern areas of Torres del Paine where there are fewer people, and together with our expert guides and trackers give you the best chances of seeing them up close. Spectacular landscapes, flora and fauna, this adventure is a must for wildlife and nature enthusiasts alike!
Trip Highlights
• Possibility to Spot & Photograph Pumas Up Close
• Quiet Trekking through Laguna Azul & Laguna Amarga
• Photograph Spectacular Landscapes & Fauna of Torres Del Paine
• Secluded Camping Experience in Our Riverside Camp! (October – April) or Hotel Lago Grey (May – August)
• Option to extend trip or stay additional nights
DOWNLOAD YOUR MAPS:
• TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK MAP
• MAGALLANES & ANTARCTIC REGION
• PUERTO NATALES
DOWNLOAD YOUR PACK LIST:
• NATURE TRIPS PACK LIST
Itinerary
Day 1
Transfer to Torres del Paine National Park – Full Day Puma Tracking & Photo Safari Excursion
- 1.5 Hour Private Transfer
- 8 – 10 Hour Guided Puma Tracking & Photo Safari
- Excursion with Full Vehicle Support
- Welcome Dinner & Night in Private Deluxe Tent (BL – D) (October – April)
- Welcome Dinner & Night in double superior room, Hotel Lago Grey (BL – D) (May – August)
Early in the morning, a private transfer will pick you up from your hotel or accommodation taking you to the national park along a scenic route past far stretching landscapes of the Patagonia pampas as the mountains and valleys of the Paine Massif come into sight.
Your guide will communicate with the local puma tracker who will indicate today’s meeting point where you will begin your search for these majestic felines.
You’ll spend the day searching for the pumas throughout the park as you admire the other-worldly landscapes of Torres del Paine, it’s flora and fauna.
You will have endless opportunities for taking wonderful photos of some of the most iconic scenes and landscapes. Along with your guide, you’ll enjoy gentle hikes throughout various sectors of the park depending on where the pumas where last spotted.
If you are lucky enough to spot them, you’ll take a few moments to capture once in a lifetime photos of these incredible cats.
A beautiful spot will be chosen by your guide to enjoy a picnic lunch mid day before taking the rest of the afternoon searching for the puma and their offspring.
In the evening, you’ll head to Chile Nativo’s Riverside Camp located on the shores of the Serrano River, away from the buzz of crowded Refugios and campsites.
* For winter programs (May – August) your transfer will take you to Lago Grey Hotel.
Upon your arrival, you will be warmly greeted by the concierge and staff who will escort you to your private deluxe accommodation. Inside, you’ll find double-height mattresses and cozy down covers to ensure a warm night’s rest.
A freshly prepared welcome dinner awaits you and your guide in a dedicated dining lodge with magnificent views of the Paine Massif.
Day 2
Full Day Puma Tracking & Photo Safari
- 8 – 10 Hour Guided Puma Tracking & Photo Safari Excursion with Full Vehicle Support
- 1.5 Hour Private Transfer to Puerto Natales (B – BL)
Early in the morning after a hearty breakfast, we head out to meet up with the local puma tracking guide who will indicate our meeting point today. Generally the pumas are found near a nature trail along the border of Lago Sarmiento & Juncos Lagoon which offers an exceptional backdrop for landscape photos.
If we are fortunate enough to spot the pumas, we will take advantage to capture photos – but not for too long! – in order to respect the puma and to not alter too much their daily life and routine. We’ll continue to observe these spectacular felines while hiking in particular sectors of the park, making our way in vehicle while taking pictures along our way.
As in summer the days are much longer than winter, we have the opportunity to trek through other areas of the park, such as Laguna Azul, where we will enjoy a delicious box lunch and observe the park’s other landscapes and species. Please consider that daylight in winter for puma tracking activity is much more limited.
After our last pictures, we drive back Puerto Natales where our journey ends. Guests will be dropped off at their hotel or accommodation for the evening.
INCLUDED
- All private transportation indicated in the schedule
- All meals indicated in the schedule (B: breakfast, BL: box lunch, D: dinner)
- 1 night at Chile Nativo Riverside Camp in Torres del Paine (Double Dome)
- 1 night at Hotel Lago Grey (double room) (May - August)
- Entrance to Torres del Paine National Park
- Guide (English-Spanish speaking)
- Expert ranger in tracking Pumas
NOT INCLUDED
- Any additional nights
- Medical expenses
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks except those included in menu
- Insurance of any kind
- Personal expenses
- Gratuities for guide/driver
Lodgings
Riverside Camp
Far away from the crowded park refugios and campsites, Chile Nativo Riverside Camp is our fully supported base camp located in Torres del Paine National Park. This area is ideal for families and special groups setting off to the park or for those looking for an alternative and unique outdoor experience.
Hotel Lago Grey
Located on the shore of Lago Grey, this ideally located and beautifully designed hotel is surrounded by forests of Lenga, Coihue and ñirres. From the dining room and sitting areas you will be astonished with breathtaking views of the deep blue icebergs floating on the lake´s quiet surface and the immense Glacier Grey in the distance. Each room offers a unique view and has modern amenities that make your stay a refreshing and a special treat during your Patagonia adventure.
Dates & Prices
PRICES FOR SEASON 2023/2024: (Valid until April 2024)
2 Day Overnight Puma Tracking Excursion
(2 Days w/ 1 Night Accommodation in Chile Nativo Riverside Camp. Riverside Camp Operates October – April)
2 Guests Total in Group: USD$ 1.895 per person
3 Guests Total in Group: USD$ 1.495 per person
4-8 Guests Total in Group: USD$ 1.295 per person
*DEPARTURES AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST*
Puma Tracking is Available All Year Round. Overnight excursions with accommodation in Chile Nativo Riverside Camp is available October – April.
PRICES FOR WINTER 2024 (Valid from May to August 2024)
2 Full day Puma Tracking Excursion (2 days with 1 night accommodation in Hotel Lago Grey)
2 Guests Total in Group: USD$ 1.935 per person
3 Guests Total in Group: USD$ 1.635 per person
4-5 Guests Total in Group: USD$ 1.295 per person
6-8 Guests Total in Group: USD$ 1.195 per person
*DEPARTURES AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST*
Puma Tracking is Available All Year Round.
Overnight excursions with accommodation in Chile Nativo Riverside Camp is available October – April.
Overnight excursion with accommodation in Hotel Lago Grey is available from May to August.
FAQ's
Q: Where do I keep my luggage that I won’t need during my excursion in the park?
A: The majority of the hotels and hostels will store luggage for their guests who are staying with them prior to and after their travels in the park. If not, we will happily store your luggage securely in our office until you arrive back from your program. During your guided puma tracking excursion you will have full vehicle support for the safe transport of your luggage and equipment needed during your excursion.
Q: What if I’m staying inside the park already and not in Puerto Natales? Can I still be picked up from my hotel or accommodation?
A: Yes – the transfer to our Riverside Camp is included in this program regardless where you are staying (inside the park or in Puerto Natales).
Q: I’m renting a vehicle during my time in Torres Del Paine – can I follow the guide in my own car since I won’t need transportation?
A: The safety of our guests and guides is always our primary concern on any excursion. Even though you may have your own transportation during your travels throughout Patagonia and Torres Del Paine, you will still need to travel along with our guide in our vehicle during the puma tracking excursion. This ensures the safety of everyone and so you can enjoy the panoramic views during the transport and the chance to spot a puma in route! Our Riverside Camp has ample and safe parking so you are welcome to leave your car during your excursion.
Q: Will I need to carry a backpack each day during this excursion?
A: Although you won´t need to carry a large backpack during each day´s activity, it is recommended that you have a small daypack to carry items such as your lunch, water bottle, camera, sunscreen, glasses, and other personal items needed.
Q: Are there restrooms and showers in the Riverside Camp?
A: Yes – there are 2 restrooms and 2 showers per gender in the bath house located in the camp. Hot water is available during the generator’s schedule which functions 08:00 – 23:00. We recommend that you shower at night since your mornings you will be starting early for your days’ excursion.
Q: What is the Riverside Camp like?
A: Chile Nativo Riverside Campsite is our own private home base located within Torres del Paine National Park. Perfect for families or groups, ours is a fully-equipped campsite located on the shores of the Serrano River, away from the buzz of crowded Refugios and campsites. We run all operations in-house, meaning we’re free to work with our own trusted staff, source local products, select the best creature comforts and control all the moving parts that make up an outdoor travel experience. Our double deluxe tents are located on raised platforms, protected against the bracing Patagonian elements. Inside, you’ll find double-height mattresses, cozy down covers and heaters that can be operated during the evening to ensure a warm night’s rest. Permanent, separate male and female bathrooms with hot showers are just a short walk from the tents (please note that electricity and hot water in the campsite runs from 8 AM to 0:00 hrs). Meals are abundant, delicious and shared in a dedicated dining lodge with views of the Paine Massif’s changing colors and spacious room to lounge, relax, and enjoy great company. Our buffet breakfasts, design-your-own packed lunches and chef-prepared three-course dinners are a nourishing mix of local delicacies and high-energy foods to fuel our days’ adventures. Vegans, vegetarians and guests with other dietary needs are more than catered for with a range of alternative milks, gluten free breads, vegan cheeses and soy products. And of course, beer, Chilean wine and Pisco sours mark the perfect end to a day’s trekking. Our own concierge is always onsite to answer questions and to ensure that your stay is as comfortable as possible. With factors such as generators, mosquitos and chilly nights in the mix, our concierge is there to advise when to close mosquito nets, charge electronic devices, close your deluxe tent and turn on the heaters.
Q: Do the deluxe tents have outlets for charging devices?
A: Currently there are no charging outlets in individual tents, but there are charging outlets inside of the Dining Lodge where guests can charge devices until midnight before the electricity/generator is shut off.
