Photo credit to "Explora Lodge Torres del Paine"

Arrive in Punta Arenas, the southern tip of Chile and the gateway to the end of the world and Chilean Patagonia. Rest and prepare for your adventures in this vast open landscape. If you have time take a stroll around the Plaza de Armas Munoz Gamero the historic city square for some sightseeing and some small artisan markets. Grab yourself some warm Patagonian woolen knitted hats and scarfs if you need them they make great souvenirs and gifts and will help with the Patagonia winds or chill during your trip.

This is a must-do if you are visiting the Punta Arenas area during nesting season from October 1- March 31st. The colony of up to 120,000 Magellanic penguins is located just off the coast on the Isla Magdalena. You will be transported by ferry at sunrise about an hour each way if you opt for the quick transport thru the tour operator Solo Expediciones. This a chance to see the rare and largest colony of Magellanic penguins in South America. This was one of many highlights of my time here in Patagonia for sure!

After your Penguin expedition continue to travel to Puerto Natales, about a 2.5 hour scenic drive by transfer or rental car to this charming town on the shores of Ultima Esperanza Sound. On the way be sure to stop and view many of the guanaco grazing about .Guanaco are closely related to a llama. Upon arrival to town , maybe have an afternoon horseback ride thru the step with a Chilean gaucho or horseman.

Travel Tip - Pick up any last minute hiking gear and supplies such as hiking poles from Rentals Natales and snacks for trekking. If you are self driving make sure to fill up your rental car with gasoline in Puerto Natales this will be the last stop before entering Torres del Paine National Park about 1.5-2 hours to the main Welcome Center.

Overnight at The Singular Patagonia a luxury hotel housed in a converted factory building with stunning views of the fjords.

Begin your hiking Patagonia adventure with a full-day hike to the Base Torres viewpoint in Torres del Paine National Park. This is categorized as a strenuous hike and you should be fairly active or fit to undertake the 21km/13miles round trip hike. This is a stunning ,epic, and other worldy journey. You will witness the iconic granite towers reflected in a glacial lake. Mesmerizing!

Travel Tip - The weather can be unpredictable so pack accordingly with layers and rain gear. The wind is not your friend especially in the high summer season of December- February! Also be prepared for many more hikers on the trail during this busy time . Start your hike early at sunrise to have the best chance for clear weather at the top of the towers.

Overnight: Hotel Torres del Paine (right at the hike trailhead) or Explora Lodge both can organize guided tours throughout the park.

Take a boat tour to see the majestic Grey Glacier up close, marvel at the blue ice formations, and spot floating icebergs. While taking in the glacier on the deck have a Pisco sour which is a chilean cocktail. The Grey navigation boat leaves from Hotel Lago Grey daily a few times a day but as with anything in Patagonia navigation is based on weather. So check in advance and be prepared to be flexible with your plans.

Overnight: Rio Sereno Hotel + Spa, Hotel Lago Grey or Patagonia Camp.

Day 6: Return to Puerto Natales

Return to Puerto Natales and enjoy a relaxing evening in this bustling town. Stop by Last Hope Distillery for a local Austral ale or squeeze in some last minute shopping at the artisan markets for more Patagonia handmade items or for Calafate crafted foods ,the Patagonia small blue blackberry berry which legend says if you eat the berries you will be sure to return to Patagonia one day. I know I am!

Travel Tip - If time permits stop by the Mylodon Cave Natural Monument your return to Puerto Natales. This giant cave discovered in 1895 and over 14,000 years old is worth the quick detour. Plan for an hour for a quick viewing or stay longer and see the entire cave system.

Day 7

To depart and say adios to Chile either depart from the small Puerto Natales airport or head back to Punta Arenas. Depending on the season flights are more frequent from Puerto Arenas year round.