Why choose Walk Patagonia?
We in Walk Patagonia are dedicated exclusively to the organisation of excursions and expeditions in Patagonia. We carry out our excellent personalised service from the first contact.
We put special emphasis on being highly trained guides.
The general profiles of our guides are well rounded people, with lots of professional experience, well mannered, friendly, fun and with a passion for mountains as well as each guide having different interests and a high level of general education and training.
Who are my guides?
As guides of the National Park “Glaciares” we are knowledgeable in flora, fauna, geology, glaciology and the history of the area. Each one of us has had professional training in mountain techniques, rescue and advanced first aid. If you want more information please have a look at Who we are.
Are the excursions difficult?
We offer all kinds of excursions; depending on the necessities, conditions and interests of the participants.
We offer various walks of varying difficulty.
We are always ready to make changes for our clients, not forgetting that you are on holiday and want to ENJOY yourselves.
For a different experience there is also the possibility of horse riding in the National Park.
There is the possibility too of doing sightseeing in the National Park from a vehicle, for those of you who don’t want to or are unable to go walking.
Level of difficulty of the different excursions
What types of meals are included in the excursions?
Our menus are based on fresh and natural products, maintaining a balanced diet and taking into account the physical activity of the trip. If you have special dietary requirements; vegetarian or allergic to anything please let us know beforehand in order to be able to give you the service you deserve. Please look at Meals.
Can I travel with my children?
We advise you to bring children of 10 years or more on our programmes.
Can you drink the water from the rivers in Patagonia?The water from the rivers and streams comes directly from glaciers and snow that has been untouched by human or animal, ensuring the water is absolutely pure and clean. We have never heard of any of our clients having problems, nevertheless we provide a bottle of water in all our packed lunches.
How comfortable will I be in the hotels in El Chaltén?
Depending on your preferences and budget, there are from chalets and dormitory accommodation in hostels to hotels of 3, 4 and 5 star. For more information please ask before reserving. We are here to help.
How comfortable are the camps organised by Walk Patagonia?
On our camps we use high quality equipment; internationally recognised brands, manufactured for extreme weather conditions and high levels of comfort.
Who prepares the meals during the camps?
Normally the camp assistant will cook... but from our experience you will end up helping out... it’s part of the adventure taking part in the camp activities isn’t it? Whether you want to do a little, a lot or nothing that is your prerogative.
How many people can take part in the excursions? Our excursions are generally for a maximum of 15 people for every 2 guides, with the aim of giving a more personalised service. If you are planning on travelling with friends and family, let us know in order to be able to organise a trip just for you!
Do you organise private trips?
Yes, please info@walkpatagonia.com in order to send you various options that would be right for you.
Will you make agreements with Travel Agencies, syndicates or schools?
Yes, please click here to contact us.
What level of security does Walk Patagonia offer in the mountains?
Security for us is our number one priority. For this reason all our guides and tour leaders are trained and certified as Wilderness First Responders (WFR) and Wilderness Advanced First Aiders (WAFA). Furthermore we all have plenty of experience in rescue and first aid in the mountains having been in them for so many years. Even so, we believe that the responsibility is shared between guides and participants of the programmes. Therefore one of the first things we like to do when we meet a group is have a short chat, before going out, describing the route to be taken and how to carry it out safely.
What communication systems do you use on the excursions?
The excursions and expeditions generally take place in remote areas away from urban conurbations, therefore we use VHF radio, which allows us to contact directly to our base, the National Park offices, the Rescue team, the hospital, etc.
For our expeditions to Aconcagua we use satellite telephones to provide the highest form of security possible.
In general, there is no mobile phone signal.
What is the climate like in Patagonia?
In Patagonia the climate is very variable.
At the beginning of the season (October- November)the climate is more stable, like at the end too (March- April). With stable weather and good light conditions for photography.
Right in the middle of the summer the days are long and can be quite warm (more than 18º C)The wind is nearly constant, with intermittent winds which can be snow at times – even in the summer!
It is a fact that we experience the four seasons in one day! For this reason you always have to go prepared with all weather gear.
Is there a lot of wind in Patagonia?
Yes, especially in spring and summer, but they don’t present any big risk; it is just for a short period of time.
Does the weather have any influence over the excursions?
There can be climatic changes which represent no immediate danger, such as rain. Others, for example strong winds, that if they become too strong can make it difficult to walk, especially on Torre Glacier, between the crevices; this can cause the postponement of an excursion or at least part of it.
How does the weather affect excursions of various days?
When the climate does not allow us to carry out a programme safely and it has not yet started the guide will propose possible alternatives. If the programme has started then it will be decided whether it`s best to wait, descend or whatever action allows us to get out of the danger zone as quickly and as safely as possible.
If the weather is so unpredictable why do so many people visit Patagonia?
Whatever the weather, Patagonia is a land of extraordinary and unique adventure, where lots of mountain activites can take place. Furthermore the strong winds that are so characteristic of Patagonia constitute an attraction within themselves!
What do I have to bring with me?
Look at necessary equipment
Do I need sun tan lotion?
There have been lots of comments regarding the ozone layer and solar radiation. It is important to understand that even though there is no scientific proof that the danger does exist in this area, it is highly recommended to apply sun block to protect against the sun and the wind.
What are the light hours during the year in Patagonia?
Autumn (March-June)– 07.00 – 20.00
Winter – (July-September) 09.30 – 18.30
Spring –(October-December) 07.00 – 20.00
Summer – (January- February) – 04.00 – 23.00
How can I get to Patagonia?
There are flight connections from Buenos Aires to El Calafate, the main town in this area of Patagonia.
Do you need visas to enter Argentina and Chile?
The international formalities are similar for both countries. If you are thinking of travelling from Argentina to Chile and then back to Argentina you should check whether you need a multiple entry visa, or if you need one at all. For further information have a look at the official websites below.
www.mininterior.gov.ar
www.mrecic.gov.ar
www.extranjeria.gob.cl
Do I need travel insurance?
Taking into account the fact that we are in a very isolated area and the climatic conditions can be very extreme it is recommended that you take out travel insurance in your home country, before departure, as here there are no insurance companies around to help.
What means of telephone communication are available in El Chaltén?
It is possible to make phone calls to around the world from “Locutorios” (small shops with a few phone booths where you pay for the calls when you have finished). Prepaid telephone cards also exist; these can be used from public phones. The majority of hotels also allow you to phone nationally and internationally.
What is the national currency?
The national currency is the Argentinean Peso ($) (Same symbol as the US dollar.)
Coins: 0.05: 0.10; 0,25; 0,50 centavos
Notes: 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, y 100 Pesos
How can I pay for WP excursions and expeditions?
Look at Forms of Payment
Are there ATMs in the area?
In El Chaltén NO. In El Calafate there are ATMs for Cirrus, Link, Visa and Banelco.
What are the opening hours of Banks and shops in El Chaltén and El Calafate?
Banks and Money Exchange in El Calafate: Monday-Friday
Shops: Monday – Sunday – Mornings 10.00 – 13.00. Afternoons 15.00 – 20.00
Do tourists pay any type of tax?
For all products and services 21% VAT (Value Added Tax) is added.
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