Untamed Patagonia Adventure
10-19 April 2025
Nestled at the southern tip of South America, Patagonia sprawls as a vast and remote expanse, shared by Argentina and Chile. Its scenery is not just real but surreal, as if plucked from the realm of dreams. Renowned worldwide for its breathtaking natural beauty, Patagonia boasts rugged landscapes adorned with towering mountains, expansive glaciers, pristine lakes, and windswept plains.
But Patagonia is more than just scenery; it's a haven for unique wildlife, including the graceful guanacos, majestic Andean condors, fleet-footed rheas, elegant pink flamingos, the crested caracara, also known as the "Mexican Eagle," and the ever-elusive puma. Yet, amidst its natural splendor lies a capricious weather system, where rapid changes from wind, rain, and snow to moments of perfect tranquility are the norm.
Embark on a photo tour unlike any other, where every frame captures the essence of adventure, the thrill of discovery, and the enduring enchantment of the wild. In Patagonia, every vista tells a story—a story of rugged beauty, untamed wilderness, and the timeless allure of the unknown.
Itinerary
Day 0: Before 10 April
As our tour begins promptly on April 10th, we recommend arriving a day prior to allow for ample rest before diving into our exciting itinerary. To facilitate this, we'll suggest a hotel in Punta Arenas that you can book. Our designated airport is Presidente Carlos Ibáñez del Campo International Airport (PUQ).
Day 1: 10 April
Embarking from Punta Arenas in the early hours, the journey begins with a three-hour drive to Puerto Natales, where the day greets us by photographing the sunrise. Crossing the border from Chile into Argentina, the road leads onward to El Chaltén, a drive of approximately six hours. Amidst this adventure, a delightful lunch awaits in La Esperanza, adding a savory pause to the day's memorable travels.
Day 2: 11 April
Embark on an early morning hike to Mirador Fitz Roy, a captivating viewpoint offering an unparalleled vista of this majestic peak. Following this experience, you have the option to venture further with a hike to the hidden waterfalls. As twilight descends, we trek back to our hotel in El Chaltén, reflecting on the day's unforgettable experiences amidst the natural wonders of this place.
Day 3: 12 April
Capture Fitz Roy's sunrise from the river viewpoint, then embark on a picturesque drive to Lago Desierto, pausing along the way to capture the stunning scenery through your lens. As we journey back to El Chaltén, we'll make a stop to photograph the enchanting Salto Del Anillo waterfall, adorned in the vibrant hues of autumn.
Day 4: 13 April
Experience the awe-inspiring sunrise at the Cerro Torre viewpoint or capture the enchanting waterfall Chorillo Del Salto adorned in the vibrant hues of autumn. Note that participants who wish to hike up to the Fitz Roy viewpoint for a second time may do so on this day.
Day 5: 14 April
Check out early from our hotel in El Chaltén for a sunrise shoot of Fitz Roy from the river viewpoint. Following this , we embark on a picturesque drive to Perito Moreno Glacier for photography opportunities, with the option to join a boat tour (not included in the tour package). Later, enjoy dinner and check in at El Calafate, where our adventure continues.
Day 6: 15 April
Embark on an early morning departure for the Chilean border, beginning our journey towards the iconic Torres del Paine. As the day unfolds, we anticipate capturing the stunning sunset amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park.
Day 7: 16 April
Witness the sunrise at Salto Grande, where the majestic waterfall and weathered trees paint a picturesque scene. Later, capture the mesmerizing sunset at Explora Patagonia, soaking in the beauty of this stunning landscape.
Day 8: 17 April
Photograph the sunrise at Lago Pehoe, and as the day draws to a close, witness the mesmerizing sunset among the haunting silhouettes of dead trees framing Los Cuernos, providing a captivating end to your day immersed in the natural beauty of Patagonia.
Day 9: 18 April
Capture the sunrise from a Patagonian lenga forest, offering breathtaking views of Los Cuernos mirrored in a tranquil river. Watch in awe as horses roam freely against the backdrop of the iconic peak, adding a touch of wilderness to the scene. Later, depart for Punta Arenas for the end of the tour, where your accommodation is included as part of the tour package.
Day 10: 19 April
Departure from Punta Arenas is available at any time, providing travelers with the flexibility to choose their preferred departure time according to their schedules and needs.
Details
Maximum Number of Participants
Cost
Inclusive of Hotel during tour proper, transportation, drivers and guide fee. (EXCLUSIVE OF AIRFARE COSTS AND FOOD).
Reservation Deposit
Single Occupancy Fee
Cancellations
Deposit is fully refundable if canceled 30 days before the start of the tour, in the event of a government pandemic travel restriction, this 30- day rule will be waived.
Any amount paid in excess of the deposit is fully refundable at any time.
All cancellations must be made by a formal email request.
Photography Skill Level
This workshop is well suited for those with basic knowledge of photographing in manual mode.
Classroom Time
Classroom time will be available in the event of poor shooting conditions but the majority of the time will be spent in the field.
Fitness Level
On most of our locations, a light or minimal hike is needed (15 to 30 minutes walk) but there will be a couple of locations (optional) that requires hike up to 2-3 hours one-way. Please make sure that you exercise and have a general check up before the tour.
Airports
Begin: Punta Arenas ( PUQ)
End: Punta Arenas (PUQ)
Currency
Most of Chile and Argentina accept US dollars and Credit cards.
Power Requirements
TBA
WiFi & Mobile Signal
Wifi is available mostly in our hotels. You can buy a prepaid local sim with data access if needed.
Drones
TBA
Travel Insurance
We require all our participants to secure travel insurance with international assistance. The tour operator is not liable for any accidents or losses. Though we strive to provide a safe environment for the tour, your safety is still your responsibility.
Workshop Cost
Inclusive of Hotel during tour proper, transportation, drivers and guide fee. (EXCLUSIVE OF AIRFARE COSTS AND FOOD).
Deposit is fully refundable if canceled 30 days before the start of the tour, in the event of a government pandemic travel restriction, this 30- day rule will be waived.
Any amount paid in excess of the deposit is fully refundable at any time.
All cancellations must be made by a formal email request.
Your Guides for this Workshop
Edwin Martinez
Travel and Nature Photographer
When one speaks of travel and landscape photography at its apex, his name quickly comes to mind. Well known locally and gaining recognition abroad for his ethereal landscape images, his works exemplify landscape photography as a fine art.
A former medical and corporate professional, Edwin has found his niche and true calling in landscape photography. Still imbibed with the commitment and dedication for always achieving his best, these qualities are now his staples, whether he is shooting for clients or himself, mentoring photographers that join him in the tours that he guides in Iceland, Norway, Canada, the American west and other parts of the world or teaching in workshops under Wide Horizon Photo Adventure.
Edwin’s excellence has been recognized by brands that support his projects. By virtue of his acknowledged skill and influence, he has been tapped to field test and help in the launch of a number of new photography gear. His works have graced both local and overseas publications and websites. Edwin’s images surely speak the language that draws attention and leaves an indelible mark of excellence.
Noel Casaje
Travel and Nature Photographer
Noel Casaje is an award-winning landscape photographer who considers himself an avid student of light and its interaction with the natural world. He has a passion for capturing images that resonate with him and scenes that evoke emotions in viewers. His expertise lies in working in low light, where he explores the nuances it creates, transforming scenes from the real to the surreal.
Noel and his photographs have gained recognition in various media outlets. Forbes.com has included him in its list of Top 5 Travel Photographers to Watch Out For. Through his company, Wide Horizon Visuals, he continues to organize exclusive photo tours to some of the world's most unforgettable destinations.
Noel has led groups to explore Patagonia, Lofoten, the Canadian Rockies, Costa Rica, the Italian Dolomites, and nearly all the major American National Parks. He aspires to persist in leading these tours and discovering more exciting destinations in the future.
Recommended Gear
Expected Conditions
In autumn, the temperature can drop to 55-40°F (13-4°C) during the day, with nighttime temperatures dropping to 20°F (-6°C).
Warm Hat
Gloves or Mittens
Base Layers
Down Jacket
Outer Shell
Waterproof Outer
Balaclava
Sun Hat
Sunglasses
Sun Block
Hiking Pants
Hiking Boots
Waders or Overshoes
Camera
Full frame or mirrorless system
Lenses
Ultra Wide (i.e 16-35 f2.8)
Mid Telephoto (i.e. 24-70 f2.8)
Telephoto (i.e. 70-200+ f2.8)
Macro (if shooting close-ups)
Extreme Telephoto
(if shooting wildlife) consider an f4 due to weight
Recommended Filters
ND 6
ND 10
Circular Poloarizer
Graduated ND 3 stop - soft and hard
3 stop reverse graduated
Tripod
Preferably carbon fiber for light travel
Laptop
For processing and classroom work