MT Sobek: Argentina & Chile Patagonia Hiking with Premier Lodging

Reason #01
We used our 40+ years of expertise in Patagonia to craft this adventure for those who prefer a shorter, less strenuous hiking itinerary using top accommodations.Reason #02
In just nine days, experience achievable day hikes in both Los Glaciares and Torres del Paine, recharging in between at a luxury lodge in the Patagonian steppe.Reason #03
Follow MT Sobek's expert local guides and enjoy wonderful hikes, excellent cuisine, wine tastings, and some of Patagonia's finest accommodations.Activities

Easy to moderate day hikes, with two more challenging days; also easy horseback riding options at EOLO.

Lodging

A perfectly situated hotel in the mountaineering hub of El Chalten, plus two luxury lodges - EOLO in the Patagonian steppe near El Calafate and Tierra Patagonia in Torres del Paine.

Climate

October to March are the best months to travel in Patagonia with moderate to warm temperatures during the days and cool nights. Strong winds are common.

When and where should I arrive?

Arrive in El Calafate, Argentina by 1:40 PM on Day 1. An MT Sobek representative will meet you at El Calafate airport and a group transfer is provided, departing El Calafate airport at 2:30 PM for the 3-hour drive to El Chaltén. You may wish to arrive a day early and book your own pre-tour accommodations in Buenos Aires or El Calafate, in order to rest from international flights and to make sure you are in El Calafate in time for the 2:30 PM group transfer to El Chaltén.

Do I need prior hiking experience?

Not necessarily. This is a moderate-level hiking trip, which means you will enjoy your experience more if you have hiked previously. Hikes can be skipped entirely, and there are options available to accommodate different fitness levels.

How does this trip compare to your Chile & Argentina Ultimate Patagonia Hiking trip?

This trip is designed to be considerably easier than our Ultimate Patagonia Hiking trip. All hikes are day hikes, so you are never required to finish a hike to get to the next destination (as is required for the W-Route portion of our Ultimate Patagonia trip), and there is less mileage each day as well as less elevation gain and loss. Accommodations are also more luxurious, with gourmet cuisine. If you are looking for a more in-depth experience and a greater physical challenge (including the full W-Route Trek in Torres del Paine), and don't mind spending some nights at simple mountain lodges, our Ultimate Patagonia Hiking trip is a better fit.

Will the hikes go ahead if the weather is poor?

Strong winds and occasional rain are common, and even in the Patagonian summer light snow is possible. Most of our hikes take place within somewhat protected environments so weather conditions rarely disrupt them. We will shorten or skip hikes if there are safety concerns.

Would you recommend trekking poles?

Yes. Trekking poles will assist with balance over rocky and uneven terrain, as well as alleviate pressure on your joints during ascents and descents.

What is the minimum age for this trip?
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.Is wine included on this trip?
On most adventures, we celebrate with a toast on the first and last days—but this trip is different! Traveling through a world-renowned wine region, we're elevating the experience—and our glasses—by including wine with every group lunch and dinner at hotels or local restaurants (excluding packed lunches on hiking days). At Tierra Patagonia, the indulgence continues with an open bar featuring mineral water, soft drinks, juices, wine, and house spirits. Premium wines and spirits are also available for purchase for those looking to savor something extra. Cheers!

MT Sobek: Argentina & Chile Patagonia Hiking with Premier Lodging

Inclusions
Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
Snacks and water between meals
Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
Baggage transfers and porterage

Exclusions
International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
Gratuities for MT Sobek and Tierra Patagonia guides
Travel Protection Program
Personal expenses

MT Sobek: Argentina & Chile Patagonia Hiking with Premier Lodging

Jorge Barcelo
Jorge was born in Buenos Aires and started traveling extensively at an early age. He studied guitar performance at San Francisco Conservatory of Music in California, and holds an MBA from UADE University, Buenos Aires. Jorge currently lives in Mendoza and also runs his own travel company, focused on food and wine adventures in the Andes. His travels as an expedition leader have taken him to nearly every remote area of Argentina and Chile, from Patagonia to the Atacama desert and Easter Island. Meet Jorge on our adventures in Patagonia!





Victor Garra
Victor has traveled extensively throughout Argentina and Chile, guiding trips in Patagonia and Andean wine-making regions. He enjoys leading tours to the famed Mendoza wineries, meeting renowned wine makers, hiking trails in the foothills, and indulging in traditional gaucho barbeques with MT Sobek travelers. Victor resides in a small village south of Buenos Aires, and creates memorable travel experiences in Chile and Argentina.

MT Sobek: Argentina & Chile Patagonia Hiking with Premier Lodging

Day: 1, duration: 3
Los Cerros Boutique Hotel

Los Cerros Boutique Hotel features a premiere vantage point over the town of El Chalten and the stunning Chalten Valley, framed by the Fitz Roy range and Rio de las Vueltas. Trailheads for classic day hikes to Laguna Torre (for views of Cerro Torre) and Poincenot (for views of Fitz Roy and the Piedras Blancas Glacier) are just steps from the hotel. Spacious rooms feature updated traditional decor with natural colors and picture windows with spectacular views. Guests can also enjoy spa and wellness treatments, and a well-earned soak in the Jacuzzi. At the restaurant, guests can dine on traditional Patagonian and international cuisine, paired with local wines and liquors!

Day: 4, duration: 2
Eolo Lodge

EOLO is a Relais & Chateaux property, conveniently located in the Patagonian steppe between El Calafate and Perito Moreno Glacier, with its beautiful 10,000 acre property providing a wonderfully sheltered and peaceful ambiance. From anywhere on the property, and from all of its 17 rooms, guests can witness the magnificent views across the vast Patagonian plains to the Andes (including Torres del Paine in the distance!). Guest rooms are gracefully appointed with refined colors and elegant lines, and feature sumptuous beds with fine linens, antique furniture, deluxe amenities and spectacular views. EOLO's gourmet restaurant optimizes local and regional foods and features some of Argentina's best wines.

Day: 6, duration: 3
Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa

Tierra Patagonia is nestled beside craggy mountains and the glistening Lake Sarmiento in Torres del Paine National Park, and is the perfect luxury base for exploring the region. Design features reflect the surrounding landscapes, with elements and artifacts sourced from Chilean artisans, such as sheepskin rugs and soft, handmade throws. Rooms are elegant yet understated, with local wood features and whitewash walls to focus your attention on the views beyond. Meals feature a contemporary approach to Chilean cuisine, with an irresistible mix of hearty stews, slow-cooked soups and tasty dishes, sourced from the nearby estancias surrounding the lodge.

Our groups are intentionally kept small to allow for a deeper experience with the people and wildlife you encounter on the way. It also allows us to take advantage of the many unexpected invitations and opportunities that would be impossible with larger groups.
 

Small Group Travel

Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with friends, join one of our over 500 scheduled departures where you’ll travel in the company of like-minded adventurers. They love being engaged, energized, and inspired. Each with their own story to tell, they make fascinating and entertaining travel companions. You may just come home with a new travel buddy. Plus, with an average of 8 to 10 guests per scheduled group, you’ll have unparalleled access to your expert guides and the space to enjoy your adventure free from the limitations of a tour bus.
 

Private Adventures

Private adventures with MT Sobek are perfect for those travelers who enjoy the privacy and flexibility of traveling on their own but want the peace of mind that comes with having all the logistics handled by experts. Most of our itineraries can be made private. We offer hundreds of itineraries and dates that your group can easily take over, or, if the date you’re looking for isn’t available, we’ll make it happen for you. 
 

Custom Adventures

Whatever the occasion—family reunion, milestone celebration, an ultimate road trip with friends, we can make your dream trip happen. Experience MT Sobek’s blend of insider access and adventure style on an itinerary exclusively created for you and your family, colleagues, or friends. We have a dedicated team of Custom Trip Specialists. 
 

Solo Travelers

Small group travel is perfect for solo adventurers looking to explore with like-minded people. Right from your first meeting, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you start to bond with your fellow travelers. No matter where they come from, it turns out that simply having a shared love of travel really brings people together. Whether you’re on the trail, watching wildlife, or enjoying a meal around a family table, there are plenty of opportunities to share stories and talk about highlights from the day.

From luxury hotels to rustic lodging, deluxe camping to wilderness camping, check out our full range of accommodation styles. Some trips may include a combination of styles, expertly picked for the destination.

Hotels at the Heart of Adventure

Where else to stay when visiting the Grand Canyon but perched on the North Rim of this natural wonder? How better to appreciate the fjords of Norway than to slumber in a brightly colored fisherman’s cottage by the water’s edge? Or to spot the “Big Five” from your luxury safari camp’s private veranda? We seek out small boutique hotels and lodges that treat you to the “must-have” experiences of the region.

Luxury Hotels
Revel in pure luxury at our hand-picked 5-star hotels—some of the most exquisite properties on the planet. With excellent amenities and services, including restaurants and wellness facilities, these accommodations are consistently top-rated by guests and provide an ultimate pampered experience.
 

Comfortable Hotels
The majority of our properties include small hotels and inns with a local flair. Well-appointed with modern amenities, many are family-run, adding to their character and charm. In some destinations, properties are chosen for their proximity to National Parks, wildlife and nature and are more basic. 
 

Rustic Lodging
Our rustic lodgings category includes remote lodges, mountain huts, homestays, guesthouses, gers, and fixed Bedouin camps. These accommodations may include bunk rooms and shared bathroom facilities. They truly get you to the heart of the destination.
 

Luxury Safari Camps & Lodges
We work with the finest African safari camps and global eco-lodges to bring you an ultimate experience that embodies the romance of adventure travel. We choose award-winning and top-rated accommodations with excellent amenities and services, including beautifully appointed safari tents and cabins. 

Adventure Camping

The only way to experience some of our most remote mountain and river destinations is to camp. Everest Base Camp, Kilimanjaro, the Middle Fork of the Salmon River—some of our most popular adventures—include at least five nights of camping. However, the type of camp set up can be different, depending on the destination’s remoteness and how easy it is to transport gear. Here are our three main camping styles.

Deluxe Camping

• Roomy tents
• Mattresses with linens
• Dining table and chairs
• Guides prepare meals
• All set up for you
   

Comfortable Camping

• Roomy tents
• Sleeping bags and pads
• Dining table and chairs
• Guides prepare meals
• Some camp work may be required
   

Wilderness Camping

• Trekking tents
• Sleeping bags and pads
• Guests help set up camp
• Guides prepare meals

Expedition Cruising

Over the years, we’ve found that adventure cruising aboard a nimble small ship or deluxe yacht gives our guests an intimate expedition-like experience with maximum flexibility. We can navigate narrow waterways, pull right into private coves, and get you onshore quickly. No waiting in long lines to get off the boat and no crowds once you get on shore!

Luxury Small Ship
Enjoy a luxurious 5-star cruise aboard modern vessels with elegant interior designs that enhance your onboard experience. Our luxury Galapagos ship, the Endemic, carry a maximum of 16 passengers, while polar expedition ships such as the Magellan Explorer carry up to 70 passengers. These ships include spas, bars, climate-control en-suite rooms, and an abundance of state-of-the-art equipment for ultimate cruising. Our guide to crew ratio is guide and crew service is world-class.
 

Comfortable Small Ship
Our comfortable 3 and 4-star ships are well-designed for relaxation and all equipped with modern amenities. Aboard you’ll enjoy en-suite amenities, air-conditioning, attractive dining, bar and lounge areas, and outdoor decks for viewing the scenery. Whatever star rating of ship you choose, you can be assured of the same world-class guide and crew team, and a first-rate experience.

Our adventures are categorized by activity levels from 1 to 5. Level 1 trips are the easiest, Level 3 trips are moderate, and Level 5 trips are our most strenuous—perfect for those seeking the ultimate challenge. We also offer new flexible trips featuring activities rated at Level 2 or Level 3, providing two activity options to match your preference on the day! For all trips, we encourage you to review the activity level and read the detailed activity overview for your chosen itinerary to ensure you’re fully prepared for your adventure.
 

Easygoing – Level 1

Our most relaxed style of travel. Come prepared with flexibility and a spirit of adventure. Activities may include game drives along dusty or bumpy roads, canoe rides or river floats, sailing, or walks of up to 30 minutes on flat terrain. Trail conditions may include cobblestones, pavement, gravel, or dirt paths. On some days you may be on your feet for much of the time.
 

Easy-to-Moderate – Level 2

Active trips are appropriate for most travelers. You don’t need any previous kayaking, hiking, or other experience, but should be in generally fit condition. Trips may include short hikes or walking of up to 3 hours at elevations below 6,000 feet, sea kayaking in protected waters, or river rafting on Class I-II rapids.
 

Multi-Level – Level 2 & 3

These flexible trips are perfect for travelers seeking a range of activity levels, from easy to moderate, with two options to suit your preference and energy on the day. This type of trip also enables you to travel with friends who are more, or less, active than you, and either start or end the activity together. For example, Level 2 guests may choose a 3-hour hike while Level 3 guests may choose a 6-hour hike. This variety ensures that there’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a leisurely experience or a bit more of a challenge. No matter your choice, you’ll enjoy breathtaking scenery, unforgettable adventures, and plenty of time together as a group.
 

Moderate – Level 3

The majority of MT Sobek trips. These typically include 3 to 6 hours of physical activity per day, such as rafting or wilderness camping. Eight to ten-mile hikes can reach up to 10,000 feet and may include some steep ascents or descents. River rafting trips include Class III rapids and sea kayaking trips to visit protected waters.
 

Moderate-to-Challenging – Level 4

Trips for experienced travelers seeking full days of activity and a higher level of physical challenge. Hikes and treks of up to 14 miles and 4,000 feet of elevation gains and losses per day cover steep, sometimes rugged terrain, potentially into areas of exposure and elevations exceeding 10,000 feet. River rafting trips include Class IV-V rapids; sea kayaking trips include 4 to 5 hours of paddling per day in areas of open water with waves and tides.
 

Ultimate Challenge – Level 5

Our most demanding trips for guests seeking a physical challenge. Trips include trekking without vehicle support over steep, often rugged terrain at elevations over 10,000 feet. Daily hikes of up to 12 hours or more may include substantial altitude gains and losses into remote areas of wilderness. River rafting trips include Class IV-V rapids and areas where portaging is needed. Previous experience, as well as a completed physician’s certificate, is required.

We Are Committed to Sustainability

At MT Sobek, sustainability isn’t just a principle; it’s woven into the very fabric of how we operate. We don’t simply observe the world’s unique cultures and fragile ecosystems—we take an active role in their preservation. Supporting organizations dedicated to environmental conservation and community well-being is part of our DNA. Over the years, we have contributed over half a million dollars to conservation efforts and volunteered hundreds of hours to initiatives like Yosemite Facelift. Our programs work to ensure that the wild and beautiful places we visit will continue to thrive, with a special emphasis on sustainable practices and positive social impact. From funding reforestation projects to supporting local artisans, our commitment to sustainability goes hand-in-hand with unforgettable adventure.
 

Protect The Galapagos

MT Sobek is proud to support the Galapagos Conservancy by making an annual conservation investment to its Santiago Society program. Galapagos Conservancy is dedicated exclusively to the long-term protection of the Galapagos Islands, and collaborates closely with the Charles Darwin Foundation, the Galapagos National Park, and many other institutions that are committed to the conservation of the entire archipelago.
 

Save the Tiger

MT Sobek guide Brian Weirum has made saving tigers his life’s mission and we are proud to support the Fund For the Tiger, raising over $300,000 to help tiger conservation in India and Nepal. The fund aims to address the threats faced by these majestic big cats and ensure their survival for future generations.
 

Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project

We are proud to work with the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP), based in Moshi, Tanzania, to improve the welfare and conditions for all Kilimanjaro porters. KPAP is an initiative of the International Mountain Explorers Connection (IMEC).
 

American Himalayan Foundation

Since our first treks in Nepal in 1969, Mountain Travel Sobek has worked with Himalayan communities to help support their way of life. We are also proud supporters of the American Himalayan Foundation which brings shelter, safety, education, health, and opportunity to people across the Himalaya. The AHF opens doors to education and health care, builds stronger communities, and works in a way that respects both tradition and innovation.
 

Dolma Ling Nunnery

As part of our philanthropic endeavors, we are proud supporters of the Tibetan Nuns Project at the Dolma Ling Nunnery & Institute in Dharamsala, northern India. The Tibetan Nuns Project provides education and support to refugee nuns from Tibet and to nuns from the Himalayan regions of India.
 

High Atlas Foundation

The High Atlas Foundation (HAF) empowers Moroccan communities through sustainable development. Focused on education, women’s empowerment, and environmental stewardship, HAF fosters local leadership to drive impactful change. From planting trees to building schools, their initiatives improve livelihoods while preserving cultural heritage, creating lasting opportunities for underserved rural and urban populations.
 

Preserve Alaska

The Alaska Conservation Foundation is the only public foundation solely dedicated to conservation in Alaska. The ACF’s vision is for an inspiring Alaska that is naturally thriving, biologically and culturally diverse, rich in wildlands, bountiful in terrestrial and marine life, sustainable in its economic development and thoughtfully protected—forever. MT Sobek supports the ACF by sharing their mission and vision with generations of adventure travelers.

National Park Foundation

As the official nonprofit partner of the National Park Service, the National Park Foundation generates private support and builds strategic partnerships to protect and enhance America’s national parks for present and future generations. We are proud to support the National Park Foundation to help sustain over 400 national parks in the USA, preserving 85 million acres of the world’s most treasured landscapes, ecosystems, and historical sites. 

National Park Service

MT Sobek is proud to be an authorized concessionaire of the National Park Service and a permitted outfitter under the National Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management. We always follow Leave No Trace principles and seek to drive awareness of fragile ecosystems to help support their long-term sustainability.
 

Western Rivers Conservancy

MT Sobek is proud to support Western Rivers Conservancy, an organization dedicated to protecting and preserving the vital rivers of the American West. With a shared passion for safeguarding the natural world, MT Sobek aligns with WRC’s mission to conserve critical habitats, secure public access to waterways, and ensure the sustainability of these lifelines for future generations. Together we’re working to make a meaningful impact on the preservation of our rivers.
 

Alianza Cero Basura

Alianza Cero Basura offers innovative solutions for sustainable living in Baja California Sur. It promotes waste reduction, recycling, and environmental education, providing tools and resources to empower communities. By fostering collaboration and eco-conscious practices, the hub inspires impactful change toward a zero-waste future.
 

Adventure Travel Conservation Fund

MT Sobek is proud to be a member of the Adventure Travel Conservation Fund (ATCF), an international nonprofit focused on funding on-the-ground conservation projects around the world. The ATCF is committed to protecting wild destinations and provides members in the travel and outdoor industry an avenue to directly advance critical projects that protect people, species, cultures, and places.
 

Ride 4 a Woman

We are proud to support Ride 4 a Woman, a charitable organization that empowers the women of Bwindi, Uganda More than 300 women from 11 villages now use or work at the Ride 4 a Woman community center, where they can learn to pedal sew, weave baskets, dance, sing and drum; learning new skills, making a living and making it possible for their children to gain an education.
 

Community Rhino Conservation Initiative

We are proud to support the Community Rhino Conservation Initiative to help benefit the communities and wildlife of Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe. The CRCI has re-introduced rhino to this part of Zimbabwe in a highly secure and sustainable way to eventually accommodate a viable population of free roaming black and white rhino.

Exito Planet Care Ambassador Carbon Offsetting

We are proud to work with Exito travel to book flights for our guests. Exito is a Planet Care Ambassador, committed to taking concrete steps to minimize travelers’ flight impacts on the environment by fully offsetting carbon emissions.