Most people think you’ve got to be an excellent kayaker to be able to kayak in Patagonia. Known for its strong winds and difficult weather, Patagonia may seem a bit too much for a novice. And, as a novice myself I was feeling more than a bit apprehensive on my way into Torres del Paine […]
Read MoreA Beginners Guide to the Refugios of the W Circuit in Torres del Paine: Refugio Las Torres
After a 2-hour bus journey from Puerto Natales and a 2-hour leisurely walk amongst herds of ‘guanacos’ (a breed of llama) at Portera Sarmiento at the entrance to the park, I was happy to arrive at the start of the W Circuit trail and at the refugio where I’d be staying for 2 nights. From […]
Read MoreChance encounters in Patagonia
I’m working in a world that is so different from what I understood ‘business’ to mean when I started my career. Two recent experiences have confirmed in my mind that every chance encounter with someone new is an opportunity, but each requires a very genuine, open and human interaction, and the outcomes are typically unexpected. […]
Read MoreMate. The traditional Argentinian national drink that boasts multiple health benefits.
More than just a drink, mate is an elaborate ritual, shared amongst friends, family and colleagues. Nothing captures the essence of Argentina as well as the preparation and consumption of mate (pronounce mah-tay). Yerba mate is a dried, chopped leaf similar to the common evergreen member of the holly family. It supposedly contains ingredients that […]
Read MoreNational Capitals of Argentina and Chile.
Although the Chilean and Argentine national capitals are not without their charms, trekkers impatient for the Patagonian wilderness and adventures that await them will be disinclined to lose too much time in these large metropolises. However, those with a bit more time or for those who want to experience the hectic, vibrant city life; start […]
Read MorePuerto Montt, Patagonia.
Puerto Montt is the hub for anyone wanting to travel to the Chilean Lake District. The city of Puerto Montt has a beautiful view to the Orsno and Calbuco volcanoes, located at the northern end of the ReloncavĂ (seno de ReloncavĂ), in the western area, and is protected by the Tenglo Island (Isla Tengo). Calbuco […]
Read MoreMount Aconcagua. The Facts.
Its name has roots in the indigenous Quechua language, the Quechua word Anco (white) and Cahuac (sentinel) and when translated means “The Sentinel of Stone”. However, in the Aymara language there are two terms, Kon and Kawa which mean snowed and mount respectively. Therefore, in this language the name Aconcagua would translate as “snow-capped mountain”. Aconcagua, […]
Read MorePatagonia’s hidden gem: Los Alerces National Park
The Los Alerces National Park is a national park in Chubut Province, Argentina, some 30 miles from Esquel. The park borders Chile and was established in 1937 with the main purpose to protect the forests of the “alerce” (larch) tree, from which the park takes its name. The alerce tree is an endangered confier from the […]
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