Curator’s statement
Traveling to over 40 countries has allowed me to embark on countless adventures, but exploring Patagonia on horseback stands out as the most awe-inspiring experience I've ever had. It was the perfect blend of luxury and adventure, offering the ultimate package of unforgettable memories.
The Fora Difference
Book with Kelsey to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
The Singular Patagonia, Chile
Not just a stay but a whole experience, this coveted hotel delights design lovers and seclusion seekers.
Fora Perks
- ★
A complimentary 50-minute massage.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Vinnhaus
A boutique haven in the heart of wine country, Vinnhaus blends modern luxury with vineyard elegance, providing an intimate retreat for wine enthusiasts.
Big Sur Hotel
Big Sur Hotel offers breathtaking ocean views and rustic charm for a tranquil escape.
Unlock perks by contacting Kelsey to book your trip.
Day 1: Arrive in Puerto Natales
There are two airports nearby:
The first one is Puerto Natales Airport, which is just a short five-minute taxi ride away from most hotels in town.
The second option is Punta Arenas Airport, located about three hours south of Puerto Natales. Although it's a bit further away, this airport offers more flight options. If you choose to fly into Punta Arenas, you have the choice of arranging private transportation via car or taxi, or you can simply hop on a bus right at the airport for around $15USD.
Since my Antarctica cruise ended in Punta Arenas, I decided to take the bus from there. It was such an easy, quick, and clean journey. The buses run multiple times each day and take you directly to Puerto Natales, but it is always good to book the ticket a day or two ahead of time!. So, whether you choose to fly into Puerto Natales or Punta Arenas, rest assured that there are convenient transportation options available to get you to your destination.
Once you arrive, you can settle into your hotel or take a stroll to discover the charms of the town! There is an abundance of exceptional restaurants to choose from. During our visit, we opted for Afrigonia, where we had the most delicious Pisco sours of our trip!
Day 2: Day trip to Torres del Paine or Explore Town
Experience the wonders of Torres del Paine on a guided day trip!
Choose from a thrilling full day hike through the Ascensio Valley, or take a glacier tour to enjoy close-up views of these natural wonders.
If you're in the mood for a more relaxed day, take the opportunity to unwind and prepare for your upcoming adventure. Explore the charming town of Puerto Natales, where an array of shops and restaurants await your discovery. Don't miss out on visiting my personal favorite spots!
Start your morning at Holaste or Nomad to get your caffeine fix. And when it's time for a delicious meal, indulge at El Bote, Vinnhaus or my favorite, Cafe Artimana.
For a shopping spree, head to Le Mouton Vert and La Tehuelche for traditional chilean artisan crafts and merino sheep wool products.
Here's an added bonus! If you choose to book The Singular Patagonia through me, you'll receive a complimentary 50-minute massage at their stunning spa. Treat yourself to a moment of pure relaxation amidst the beauty of Torres del Paine.
Day 3: Baguales Glamping
Set your alarm clock bright and early because your gaucho will be picking you up at your hotel to embark on a scenic two-hour drive north of Puerto Natales passing Torres del Paine one last time. As you journey through the picturesque drive, witnessing gauchos skillfully herding sheep and horses grazing peacefully in the lush pastures, your destination awaits - Estancia Baguales. From here, drop your bags, which will be taken to your glamping spot by ATVs.
Now the real adventure begins! Hop on a horse or choose to hike two hours to your glamping destination for the night. Ride along stunning views of untouched lands with not a soul in sight! As you reach the glamping spot, take a moment to settle in while your gaucho prepares a mouthwatering dinner on an open flame barbecue, with the majestic mountains serving as a picturesque backdrop. Afterwards, the choice is yours - unwind and soak in the tranquility of the camp or embark on another exhilarating ride or hike before the sun sets, immersing yourself in the beauty of nature.
Day 4: Day to Explore
This day is at your leisure and and can truly customized to whatever you like! we decided on a three-hour ride by horseback to the top of a mountain with a view of the entire valley and Torres del Paine in the distance. On the way back our guide took us to multiple lagoons and rivers where my husband was able to fly fish while I soaked up the sunshine.
Tomas, our gaucho was a true gem. Being born and raised in Patagonia, he was a wealth of knowledge and was able to take us all around the valleys, captivating us with the history and local legends of the area.
All meals and drinks were included with our tour and Tomas made sure we were well fed the entire time! When arriving back at camp, he went above and beyond by setting up stunning table arrangements, creating a delightful ambiance for our dining experience. Not only did he serve us delicious meals, but he also made sure we had all the local Chilean beer and wine we could ask for! He was our gaucho by day, chef by night!
Day 5: Head to La Barrosa
Begin by riding the two-hour journey back to car and head to Puerto Natales. From there, embark on an exciting journey across Last Hope Fjord. Once you get to the other side, meet your new horse and set off towards the majestic mountain ahead. Brace yourself for the longest day of riding, but rest assured that the breathtaking views of the fjords from the lookout point atop the mountain will make it all worthwhile. After riding through the forest, you descend upon a private oasis. Here, a stunning farm house cabin awaits, with bunnies hopping around and Scottish cows grazing in the backyard.
Savor the experience while sipping Chilean wine on the dock and fishing the fjord. This was by far, one of the most magical places I have ever been in my life.
Day 6: Estancia la Peninsula
Regretting not staying an extra day at Barrosa, we reluctantly started our journey back by horseback to Estancia La Peninsula. There, my husband stumbled upon yet another picturesque lagoon to fish, while I had the chance to see lamb being cooked over an open fire. We then joined guests from The Singular hotel to witness an impressive demonstration of how the dogs herded sheep, followed by an sheep shearing display. Ending the day, we indulged in an incredible lamb barbecue.
From there, Tomas took us back to Puerto Natales to catch our flight back home.
Need to know
A quick outline of our personal trip:
Day 1- arrive in Natales and explore town
Day 2- explore town some more or take a day trip to Torres del Paine
Day 3-5- Begin your private tour with Estancia Patagonia and explore Baguales by horseback staying in glamping domes for 2 nights
Day 5-6- continue your tour to La Barrosa for one night overlooking the fjords, ending your last day with a traditional Patagonian barbecue before heading to the airport (personally I would highly recommend extending an extra night in Barrosa!)
Contact me to go over all the details of my personal trip and let me book unforgettable experience for you!
Most of this thrilling adventure was organized with the company, Estancias Patagonia. Ian, owner and fourth generation native of the area served as my primary point of contact and proved to be an absolute delight to work with. Despite my limited riding experience, he reassured me that our tour could be tailored to our preferences. I talked with him about adding extra days, having time to both ride and hike, and of course make sure there were areas for my husband to fly fish. He was so kind and responsive to any request!
Then we met Tomas, our guide and gaucho. He was unlike any guide I had ever encountered before. His passion for what he does beyond words and I truly can't explain how amazing of a person he is. You'll simply have to experience it firsthand and meet him yourself!
![Advisor - Kelsey Coons](https://media.foratravel.com/image/upload/v1711126101/contentful-migration/advisors/image/FORA3_-_Kelsey_Coons.jpg)
Travel Advisor
Kelsey Coons
Get in touch with Kelsey
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Kelsey within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my itinerary, Live Like a Local in Marco Island, Florida.
This itinerary is part of our ongoing series on travel to Argentine Patagonia.