Half day Hike near Puerto Natales

What we do and what we offer

Self-Guided Hike

Through hiking trails we value the cultural and natural heritage of the gaucho and pioneer culture of Chilean Patagonia and the landscapes of the southernmost lenga forests of Chile. Likewise, we seek to bring people closer to the native flora and fauna and forests through the recognition of species, as well as also sites of archaeological interest of the first inhabitants of the territory. In this way we contribute to its care and conservation for future generations.

Itinerary

Departure at 8:30 AM or 2:30 PM from Puerto Natales. We will pick you up at your hotel or meet at Hostal Nikos II Adventure. After a 30-minute van ride, we will arrive at Estancia Ernesto Helmer and the Rupestre Patagonia reception area, where Jorge will be waiting for us.
After a welcome briefing and safety recommendations, trekking poles will be provided to those who need them.
The tour begins on the well-marked Rupestre Patagonia trail.

You will start the ascent up Cerro Benítez to the first viewpoint, where you can admire beautiful landscapes of Patagonian mountains and fjords. You will continue along the trail through a Lenga forest to reach the Laguna Sofía viewpoint. Here, you can observe condor nesting sites and the spectacular flight of the Andean Condor, as well as various other bird species.

The route continues past rock faces to view the ancient rock paintings left by the region’s earliest inhabitants. The trail leads on to La Ventana Cave and Escondida Cave, where you can see stalactite and stalagmite formations and visit archaeological sites containing remains of the megafauna that once inhabited the area. Next, the route takes us to the “Aleros Dos Herraduras” (Two Horseshoes Rock Shelters) area, located within a Lenga forest. Throughout the circuit, we will observe various species of orchids and birds, and hear stories from our guide about the arrival of the first settlers at this Chilean Patagonian ranch. The circuit covers 7 km and takes approximately 4 hours to hike, returning to the starting point, where we will say our goodbyes and conclude the tour. Thank you for visiting.

Optional Service: A traditional country-style lunch (roast lamb) can be arranged for the end of the hike, served in our quincho (rustic barbecue area) with a beautiful view of the Milodon Cave.

Roast Lamb Lunch: $60.000 CLP per person (Minimum 6 people).