Adventures in Patagonia

I had a fantastic time in Patagonia and I wish I could have stayed longer and would love to go back some day. The scenery is absolutely stunning and it was a really fun trip. Marcelo, our tour leader, was brilliant - good fun, very efficient, kind and with the patience of a saint! He went above and beyond on several occasions. All the guides throughout the holiday were excellent - especially our guide who took 3 of us on the day trek to the base of the 3 Torres. He was so kind. I recommend doing both the 3 Torres and the Mount Fitzroy treks. It’s hard to describe the feeling of getting to the base of the 3 Torres (which was the first one we did, so it made the biggest impression) and seeing that incredible, iconic view spread out in front of us. Also, do the optional Lake Serrano zodiac trip! It far exceeded expectations, the guides were great and the scenery (including the walk to the glacier) is beautiful. Marcelo rightly persuaded the whole group to do it. Some of the accommodation felt a bit average but all in all it was fine. The best was the hotel we stayed in at Torres del Paine. My tip is to budget to spend a lot more a day in Patagonia than the trip notes suggest. The figures quoted must be really out of date. The cost of food, drink, etc is on a par with, and in some places higher than, London.

Marcelo was outstanding as a tour leader, confidant and friend throughout the Explore experience. He was knowledgeable and kind, resolving all manner of issues with aplomb. He had a great relationship with the hotels and guides on the tour and always negotiated the best prices and experiences on our behalf. If anyone was unhappy with a hotel room or tour experience he went out of his way to seek the best possible solution. Explore is lucky to have Marcelo as part of their team and he is an exceptional representative for the company.

We had excellent ground services, on an excellent itinerary.

Very well organised trip, to a beautiful part of the world. Suitable for those who love natural beauty, remoteness, lots of trekking and a cool climate. we were lucky with the weather but be prepared for rain and wind.

Fantastic trip, one of the best I have been on. Beautiful country, amazing landscapes, lovely friendly people. Plus we had a fun group and an excellent guide, Marcelo. And we were lucky with the weather too. Yes, it’s expensive but worth it. Spend the extra to do the optional activities to make the most of it. Loved the walking with penguins, the zodiac trip on Rio Serrano and both the big walks. The days are very long but you can always sleep on the bus/back at home! Contrary to previous reviews I thought the hotels were all fine and the breakfasts were great and a good start to each day. The tango show we went to was in a small venue and great. Wish I’d added more time in Buenos Aires before the trip as it’s a lovely city and there’s a lot to see and do there - I will be back.