How to Plan Your Autumn Tour in Patagonia on the Trail of the Puma

As the seasons are changing and autumn sets its foot in Patagonia, it’s time to pack your bags and explore one of the most enthralling regions in South America. With majestic mountains, turquoise lakes, and diverse wildlife, Patagonia is a must-see destination. And to spot elusive wildlife like pumas, the “Autumn in Patagonia on the Trail of the Puma” tour is the perfect way to go. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to plan the ultimate Patagonian experience.

Step 1: Book Your Tour

The first step in planning your autumn tour in Patagonia is booking your tour. The “Autumn in Patagonia on the Trail of the Puma” tour is offered by Viator and can be booked directly on their website here.

Step 2: Plan Your Travel

To join the “Autumn in Patagonia on the Trail of the Puma” tour, you’ll need to make your way to Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport in Santiago, Chile. From there, you’ll fly to Puerto Natales, the gateway to Torres del Paine National Park. Viator provides domestic flights as part of the tour, so you don’t have to worry about making any travel arrangements on your own.

Step 3: Pack Strategically

Given the extreme weather conditions and the possibility of rain, wind and cold temperatures, pack appropriate clothing for your Patagonian adventure. Warm and waterproof boots, layers of insulating clothing, a windproof jacket, and gloves are all essentials to stay warm and dry.

Step 4: Prepare for the Tour

The “Autumn in Patagonia on the Trail of the Puma” tour includes a knowledgeable guide/driver in English, French, Spanish or Italian, so language should not be a barrier. You will have private transportation to take you to your accommodations and to the park, making your trip that much more comfortable.

Step 5: Get Ready for Your Adventure

Once you arrive in Puerto Natales, you’ll meet your guide, and your tour will begin. You’ll enjoy private transportation to trails in Torres del Paine National Park, where you’ll be able to experience some of the park’s most stunning vistas as you hike through lush forests and rugged landscapes. In addition to pumas, you might even spot other local wildlife such as guanacos, rheas, and foxes.

Step 6: Enjoy Your Tour

The “Autumn in Patagonia on the Trail of the Puma” tour is designed to give its participants a chance to be up close and personal with the park’s stunning landscapes and elusive wildlife. With the guidance of a knowledgeable guide/driver, you’ll experience a unique collection of nature’s wonders. Throughout the tour, you’ll be taken care of and provided with meals that are part of the itinerary.

Step 7: Confirm Your Booking

After booking the tour, you’ll receive a confirmation email from Viator. It’s important to confirm your booking details, including your pickup location and time, so you are ready for the start of your adventure. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. Still, if you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time or miss your tour, no amount will be refunded.

The Bottom Line

As the leaves begin to change, there’s no better time to visit Patagonia. A trip to this beautiful region is incomplete without exploring the stunning Torres del Paine National Park and getting up close with the local wildlife. By following our step-by-step guide, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to plan the ultimate “Autumn in Patagonia on the Trail of the Puma” tour. Don’t wait any longer and book your adventure today!

An Insider’s Guide to Patagonia

Patagonia, the southernmost region of Chile and Argentina, is one of the most beautiful corners of the world. From towering mountains to massive glaciers, lush forests to crystal clear lakes, and rare wildlife to unique cultural experiences, Patagonia offers everything a nature lover and adventurer could dream of. But, with so much to see and do, planning your autumn tour in Patagonia can be overwhelming.

As an insider who has explored this region extensively, I’ll provide you with a unique and fresh perspective on some hidden gems, local food, cultural experiences, history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that only locals know.

Uncover Hidden Gems of Patagonia

While the famous trekking routes like the Torres del Paine W Circuit or the Fitz Roy Circuit are stunning, there are lesser-known hidden gems in Patagonia worth exploring.

One such gem is the Marble Caves in Chile’s General Carrera Lake. These electric blue caves, formed by a millennium of water erosion, are a sparkling treat for the eyes. Another hidden gem is the Huilo-Huilo Biological Reserve, a natural conservation area in the Chilean Lake District, where you can encounter secluded lakes, unique flora and fauna, and even experience a treehouse hotel in the middle of the forest.

Try the Local Cuisine

Patagonian cuisine is a fusion of indigenous, European, and modern influences. Indulge in hearty meat dishes like asado (grilled meat), guanaco or lamb slow-cooked in a pit, and savoury soup stews like curanto. Delight your taste buds with Chilean empanadas with spicy pebre sauce and Argentine-style barbecue (parilla). Don’t forget to try dulce de leche, a caramel-like spread that is a staple of Patagonian desserts.

For a unique dining experience, visit a local estancia (ranch) where you can meet the Patagonian gauchos (cowboys) and get a feel for their rural lifestyle.

Immerse Yourself in Local Culture

Patagonia is home to various indigenous cultures, including the indigenous Mapuche people. To understand their way of life, visit one of the many Mapuche communities, where you can learn about their customs, history, and local handicrafts.

Another cultural experience worth having is attending the National Snow Festival in San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina, where you’ll witness snow art, competitions, and traditional dances, or the Festival of the Immaculate Conception in Coyhaique, Chile, where you can witness a local parade with floats, music, and colourful costumes.

Discover the Fascinating Local History

Patagonia’s history is rich, diverse, and full of captivating stories. Visit Punta Arenas, Chile, to discover the city’s history of European immigrants and their influence on architecture, or the lesser-known Penguin Colony Monument in Puerto Madryn, Argentina, to see the Magellanic penguins in their natural habitat and learn about their conservation efforts.

Another fascinating historical place is the Cueva de las Manos (Cave of Hands) in Santa Cruz, Argentina, where you can see unique prehistoric cave paintings created over ten thousand years ago by Patagonian ancestors.

Go Off-the-Beaten-Path

Take a break from the famous tourist spots and go off-the-beaten-path by visiting the remote village of Villa O’Higgins in Chile, where you can explore the breathtaking O’Higgins Glacier, the southernmost glacier in Patagonia. Or, cross the border from Torres del Paine to Los Glaciares National Park by hiking the Patagonian Ice Field, a challenging but rewarding route for experienced hikers.

Another off-the-beaten-path option is visiting the Valle Chacabuco Nature Reserve in Chile, where you can witness the recent conservation efforts on one of the largest estancias in the region.

Now that you have an insider’s guide to Patagonia, embark on your autumn tour with a unique and unforgettable experience that will leave you mesmerized.