Explora Patagonia National Park
From the Explora Patagonia National Park Lodge in Chile's stunning Chacabuco Valley, choose from 30+ daily guided activities to experience the park as few do. Hike, bike, kayak, fly and travel overland to discover valleys, forests, wildlife, fossils, glaciers, lakes and rivers. Start and end each day at your 13-room lodge with included meals, open bar and an attentive staff.
Explora Patagonia National Park is a lodge-based trip with a home base right in the park, in the heart of Chile’s Chacabuco Valley. The park is located along the breathtakingly scenic Carretera Austral, the iconic road that runs 770 miles from Puerto Montt, in the Lake District, to Villa O’Higgins, traversing the amazing landscapes of Chilean Patagonia.
This choose-your-own-adventure trip offers over 30 in-depth, guided explorations, including hiking, biking, kayaking, a helicopter flight and more. Choose from half-day or full-day adventures for all activity levels. While a 4-day itinerary exists (inquire for pricing), we recommend a longer 5-, 6- or 7-day itinerary as an ideal way to experience Explora Patagonia National Park, or we can customize your experience.
The highlights of the Explora Patagonia National Park experience are many. Enjoy opportunities for close encounters with diverse local fauna, such as guanacos and Andean condors. Appreciate traveling through a vast, uninhabited territory with unending natural beauty: dense forests, fjords, glaciers, canals, the Andes Mountains and spectacular turquoise-colored lakes and rivers. Lastly, know that your tourism dollars are going toward ongoing conservation efforts.
Start and end each day at Explora Patagonia National Park Lodge, a highly comfortable 13-room accommodation with conservation-minded architecture designed to match the unique natural beauty of the area. After a long day exploring Patagonia, relax in this bed & breakfast-style property or take in exhibits at the nearby Tompkins Museum before planning the next day’s excursions with your guide. Explora Patagonia National Park Lodge’s unrivaled location and activities are the ultimate Patagonia National Park experience.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Patagonia tours and Patagonia trips.
Explora Patagonia National Park Itinerary
The Explora Patagonia National Park adventure is a lodge-based customizable Patagonia experience that begins and ends at the airport in Balmaceda, Chile.
Staff will greet you at the airport to take you on the 6-hour journey from Balmaceda to the Explora Patagonia National Park Lodge. The route from Balmaceda to Valle Chacabuco follows both paved and dirt roads. Stop for a boxed lunch picnic along the way.
During your days in Patagonia National Park, enjoy a menu of over 30 explorations to choose from. Every evening, sit down with your guide to select the next day’s explorations. Choose between hikes, bike rides (e-bikes & mountain bikes), kayaking and overland travel to discover the landscapes and wildlife of this special conservation area. Be lead by a bilingual guide in small groups. And explore six different zones, including extensive forests connecting lakes and rivers, open plains with commanding views, icy glaciers and a fossil-heavy zone. Following is a sample of explorations; ask your Adventure Specialist for the full list.
Featured Hiking Explorations
Los Pumas
This moderate, half-day, 6.8-mile hike in the pioneers zone takes about 4.5 hours. Leave the lodge on foot and hike through a vast steppe region bordering the Chacabuco River. This is one of the areas most populated by pumas and guanacos. Learn more about these species and how to protect them.
Los Carpinteros
This easy, full-day, 6.1-mile hike in the water and forest zone takes about 2.5 hours. Hike along the southern slope of the Patagonia National Park. Cross areas with diverse vegetation: low shrubs, forest regrowth and dense coigüe forests. Different species of Patagonian bird life and fauna will accompany. Enjoy broad views of the mountains and hills in the sector and the crystalline Lake Cochrane, which is a great binational lake shared by Chile and Argentina.
La Leona
This advanced, full-day, 11.4-mile high mountain hike in the Andean and Patagonian steppe zone takes about 10 hours. Cross the natural corridors of the Valleys to experience its contrasts. Birds make their presence felt, as do the condors gliding above. Encounter different environments until arriving at an area with broad views of the valleys, some of them historic natural corridors in the area.
Featured Biking/E-Biking Explorations
Los Ríos
This easy, half-day, 8.6-mile bike ride in the Baker River zone takes about 2 hours. Leave by van with bikes in tow. After 40 minutes, reach the starting point: the outskirts of the town of Cochrane. Begin the ride in a sector of fields with crops and livestock, the main economic activities in the area. Ride beside the Cochrane River to appreciate its transparent waters and the trees introduced in the days of the pioneers. Continue on to rolling hills with stops to take in the views. End at the bridge over the El Salto River, whose waters come from the ice of Calluqueo.
La Tejuela
This advanced, full-day, 26-mile bike ride in the water and forest zone takes about 6.5 hours. Visit a rancher’s post to learn about part of the Chacabuco Valley’s history. View historic remains and learn about the lifestyle of past residents. Take a sloping path among ancient lenga forests, passing lagoons and diverse views. Pass through transit areas used by huemuls and other species in the Patagonia National Park.
Featured Combination Kayaking & Hiking Explorations
This kayak and hike in the water and forest zone is offered at two different levels of activity, both following the same route. Paddle to the Cochrane River rapids. Walk to the Lake Cochrane viewpoint and return via the Los Carpinteros trail in the Tamango area. Cross coigüe forests in the first half of the the exploration and then flank the riverbank with landscapes of pampa and Patagonian steppe.
-Los Correntadas version: easy, full-day, 2.6-mile, 4.5 hours
-Blugrin version: advanced, full-day, 7.5-mile, 8 hours
Featured Kayaking Exploration
Rio de la Vueltas (added cost)
This moderate, half-day, 4.3-mile exploration follows the Río de las Vueltas by pack raft, descending from areas near the lodge to the surroundings of Estancia Bonanza. If clouds allow, the Fitz Roy Massif appears on the horizon as we navigate past riverside forests and the silent presence of aquatic birds. The river takes shape from a network of streams that carry glacial meltwater down from the heights, linking the ice with the southern valleys.
Featured Overland Explorations
Chelenko Sur
This easy, full-day, 102-mile overland exploration in the fossils zone takes about 8 hours. Leave the lodge and cross sectors with a marked cattle ranching culture before flanking the famous Baker River, known for its turquoise waters and its powerful flow. Hike to the Baker-Neff confluence, the point where the two rivers meet, before heading to the south bank of Lake Chelenco to enjoy the panoramic views and learn about the geological formation of this area and much of Patagonia.
Viaje Glaciar
This easy, half-day, 98-mile overland exploration in the Patagonian Andean ice zone takes about 7 hours. Depart by van and travel along the Carretera Austral until taking back roads amid forests, rivers and lagoons to reach the Calluqueo Glacier. This impressive tongue of ice hangs from the western slope of the solemn Mount San Lorenzo. It then flows into a murky glacial lagoon surrounded by walls of ice thousands of years old. The wind causes the clouds surrounding Mount San Lorenzo to put on a shifting and dynamic show. Sit down and contemplate, walk around, or go down to get your wet feet in the lagoon.
Featured Explorations by Air
Northern Patagonian Ice Field (Added Cost)
This easy, half-day, added-cost excursion takes about 2-3 hours. Up to 4 guests can soar in a helicopter to explore the interior of Laguna San Rafael National Park and its surroundings, including the Northern Patagonian Ice Field, for views of glaciers, snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes and pristine forests. Advanced reservations required. Contact your Adventure Specialist for pricing and details.
Featured Fly Fishing Explorations
Fly Fishing in the Baker River (Added Cost)
This easy, half-day or full-day, added-cost excursion takes about 4 or 8 hours. Travel to Puerto Bertand, take a cataraft along the Baker River and aim to catch the emblematic Patagonian trout. Catch-and-release, all gear provided, no experience necessary.
Your incredible adventures in Patagonia National Park have come to an end, but you will take your Explora Patagonia National Park experience with you for a lifetime. Enjoy a delicious breakfast before your included transfer takes you to the airport, or to the next leg of your adventure.
Included
Transfer from and to Balmaceda airport on a preset schedule; accommodations and guided explorations; all meals, plus snacks and open bar; bike riding and kayaking gear; trekking poles; tickets to nature reserves and Patagonia National Park entrance; WiFi in common areas.
Exclusions
Optional added-cost flight from Balmaceda to Cochrane or reverse ($1,368 per person, per direction for the 25/26 season); optional, added-cost Carretera Austral & Marble Caves extension (contact your Adventure Specialist for details and pricing); optional, added-cost helicopter & packraft excursions (contact your Adventure Specialist for details and pricing); international airfare, insurance of any kind, discretionary gratuities, spa or massage service, laundry, premium wines or other items of a personal nature such as phone calls; peak season/holiday surcharges (please contact AdventureSmith for details).
Payment & Cancellation
Low, Shoulder & High Season:
25/26 Season: Sep 13-Dec 23, 2025; Jan 2-Apr 30, 2026
26/27 Season: Sep 13-Dec 23, 2026; Jan 2-Apr 29, 2027
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 30% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special payment and cancellation terms may apply for bookings made under special and last-minute deals. Changes may be made without penalty up to 30 days prior to check-in. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to check-in:
Up to 30 days – full refund
29 to 15 days – 50% of total trip cost
14 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Peak Season:
25/26 Season: Dec 24, 2025-Jan 1, 2026
26/27 Season: Dec 24, 2026-Jan 1, 2027
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 50% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special payment and cancellation terms may apply for bookings made under special and last-minute deals. Changes may be made without penalty up to 60 days prior to check-in. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Peak Season cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to check-in:
Up to 60 days – full refund
59 to 30 days – 50% of total trip cost
29 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The Explora Patagonia National Park adventure begins and ends in Balmaceda, Chile (BBA). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Plan flights to arrive to Balmaceda in time for pick-up’s scheduled up to 9:30am (or add an overnight and explorations in Cerro Castillo to break up the drive; or pre-book an optional, added-cost, 45-minute flight from Balmaceda to Cochrane followed by a 40-minute van ride to the lodge; the return flight from Cochrane to Balmaceda can also be pre-booked—inquire for details). Plan flights to depart Balmaceda anytime after 3:00pm on the final day (with advanced request, a half-day guided exploration may be available when checking out by 7:00am and leaving bags at the front desk; inquire with your Adventure Specialist for appropriate departure flight timing). Transfers are accommodated in comfortable Sprinter vans. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Internal Flights
An optional, added-cost, 45-minute group charter flight from Balmaceda to Cochrane (and/or return flight), followed by a 40-minute van ride to the Explora Patagonia National Park Lodge, is available on this trip’s itinerary (Mondays and Thursdays, Oct 3 to mid-April), booked through the operator via your Adventure Specialist. This flight is in a 4- or 5-passenger/2-crew private jet. There is a luggage limit of 44 lbs (20 kg) checked luggage and 11 lbs (5 kg) cabin baggage on the flight. Minimum two guests required, otherwise a solo guest must pay the cost of two seats. Inquire for details.
Activities
Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the guides can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities cover all areas in Patagonia National Park, either by bike (mountain bike or e-bike), kayak, foot, van, cataraft or helicopter. Prior biking and kayaking experience is not required. Hikes range from easy to expert mountain ascents. A bilingual English or Spanish guide will accompany each small group. Provided gear includes walking sticks and leg protectors for hikes; helmet, bike and water bottle for two-wheeled excursions; and all the necessary equipment for kayaking. Added-cost helicopter excursion is available for up to 4 guests at a time, via a third party operator, and must be pre-booked; contact your Adventure Specialist for details and pricing.
Room Configuration
Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy room may do so at one of the following supplements of the per-person listed rate in select rooms upon availability:
– Low & Shoulder (34%): Sep 13-Oct 31, 2025; Apr 1-30, 2026; Sep 13-Oct 31, 2026; Apr 1-29, 2027
– High & Peak (70%): Nov 1, 2025-Mar 31, 2026; Nov 1, 2026-Mar 31, 2027
Peak Season programs require a 5-day stay.
Families & Children
Children under the age of 2 are complimentary when sharing a room with their parents. Additional bed available for children aged 2-12 when sharing their parent’s room. Maximum one extra bed per room. Guests aged 13-17 are offered a special rate in an additional room with a minimum of 2 per room. Please inquire for special rates for children ages 2-17 years old accompanying their parents, which are subject to availability.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the guides’ discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of adventure travel unique.
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Explora Patagonia National Park Lodge sits in a remote sector of the park: Valle Chacabuco, roughly 5.5 hours overland or a 45-minute flight from the Balmaceda Airport. Its strategic and privileged location features the nearby Northern Ice Fields, Marble Cathedrals, Baker River and various stunning lakes. Every exploration from this intimate 13-room lodge is a conservation-minded journey in a park created with rewilding in mind.
Explora Patagonia National Park Lodge Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Explora Patagonia National Park Lodge review includes a detailed description and photo gallery. Our Patagonia experts have stayed at similar Explora properties and can provide firsthand knowledge into these properties, as well as compare the Explora Lodge in Patagonia National Park with her sister Patagonia properties of Explora Torres del Paine Lodge and Explora El Chaltén Lodge, plus other adventure lodging and Chile travel.
Choose the award-winning Explora Patagonia National Park Lodge for its intimate, remote and private feel as a small property tucked in among the hills and valleys of Patagonia National Park. And feel good about the largely self-sustaining nature of this lodge, with locally sourced food and construction materials.
Design & Sustainability at Explora Patagonia National Park Lodge
This lodge was built in partnership with Tompkins Conservation, a foundation that works with nonprofits and local communities to rewild various habitats and animal populations in Chile and Argentina. The design aims to complement the surrounding wilds, a blend of traditional Patagonian estancias and successful structures from iconic national parks around the world. Materials are largely sourced locally, including stones from nearby quarries, recycled wood and copper roofs. Finally, this property is operated by a certified B Company which is carbon neutral.
Common Areas at Explora Patagonia National Park Lodge
An inviting living room offers comfortable seating, 180-degree views and plenty of reference material on the surrounding parklands. Steps from the lodge is the spa with three outdoor hot tubs and two massage rooms—encouraging relaxation after a day of exploration. Additionally, the Patagonia National Park Museum is onsite, offering insights into the landscape and cultural history of the Chacabuco Valley. Exhibits shed light on the human influences on the park over the years, and how conservation efforts are making a positive impact. This property also offers the Buttler House, with a kitchen, dining room and event space for specialty groups needing their own spot.
Dining at Explora Patagonia National Park Lodge
Each meal served at Explora Patagonia National Park Lodge features fresh, local ingredients from small-scale farmers. Tastes reflect the gaucho culture with options including asado (barbecue) over a wood fire. The restaurant is an excellent place to make new friends among both lodge guests (whose meals and drinks are included) and other travelers who are simply passing through the park. A casual and cozy bar serves up special wines, pisco sours and more alongside views into the open kitchen, as well as window-lined seating for views of the surrounding mountains. Expect top-notch cuisine with a menu designed by award-winning owner Pablo Jesús Rivero and consulting chef Guido Tassi.
Activities at Explora Patagonia National Park Lodge
Select from over 30 activity options, ranging from easy to moderate, advanced and expert. Guests at Explora Patagonia National Park Lodge are treated to a sit down with a guide to tailor their activities. Choose among hiking, biking, kayaking, high mountain excursions, overland crossings, helicopter sightseeing or a combination of outings. Activities can be self-guided or fully guided and they range across four different exploration areas, each highlighting unique geographic, cultural and environmental characteristics.
Aside from active exploration, Explora Patagonia National Park Lodge also offers the nearby Tompkins Museum, an onsite shop for necessities and local handicrafts, and an added-cost massage service for relaxation after a busy day.
Accommodations at Explora Patagonia National Park Lodge
This small property offers only 13 rooms, providing the feel of a bed and breakfast. Each room or suite features warm wooden furniture and flooring, plus wood ceilings with exposed beams. The clean and natural décor is complemented by plenty of windows to let in light and keep the focus on the surrounding countryside. Common to each room or suite is a crib and additional bed (subject to availability), individual heating and a private bathroom with hair dryer. Interconnecting rooms may be available for families or groups. Onsite laundry service is available for an added fee.
Current Deals on This Trip
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Learn About The Lodge on Your Itinerary
The 13-room Explora Patagonia National Park Lodge sits in a remote sector of the park: Valle Chacabuco, roughly 5.5 hours overland or a 45-minute flight from the Balmaceda Airport. This conservation-minded property features the nearby Northern Ice Fields, Marble Cathedrals, Baker River and nearby lakes.
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A 2-day, pre-lodge-stay extension is offered in conjunction with stays of 3+ nights at Explora Patagonia National Park Lodge. The Carretera Austral & Marble Caves extension includes an overnight at the foothills of Cerro Castillo, all meals and beverages, and a choice between two guided explorations: a scenic trail hike along Cerro Castillo surroundings, or a boat ride across the turquoise waters of Lake General Carrera to navigate the Marble Caverns, Cathedral and Chapel—striking natural formations sculpted over time by wind and water. Inquire for pricing.
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