Multi-day treks through some of South America’s wildest terrain

Open ridgelines stretch toward the distant peaks

Days from civilisation, surrounded by raw Patagonia

High-altitude trails with unmatched glacier views

Trek up and through the Andes and past the melted portions of the Northern Ice Field in Patagonia, Chile

Only accessible by helicopter this remote route is a once in a lifetime experience

A pause on a trail of fractured stone and silence

Patagonia - Condor Trail Adventure

Trek amongst Patagonia’s unspoiled and wildest landscapes

Chile

11 Days from

Trip Code: COD

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Essential Information

Duration

11 Days

Activities

6 days trekking

Style

Classic Adventures

Accommodation

2 nights Terra Luna Lodge
8 nights camping

Meals

10 Dinners
10 Lunches
10 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading: Moderate to Challenging
This is a moderate grade trek. We strongly recommend people make their commitment to joining us as early as possible, preferably three months prior. This allows adequate time to implement a solid fitness-training program and ensures that all the correct clothing and equipment is obtained. It also allows you to be well prepared mentally and committed to the trip objective. Your fitness program should include regular aerobic exercise of at least forty-five minutes, four to five times a week. Hill/stair climbing (with a pack) is the best training, as this is the very activity you will be doing on trek. Building your leg muscles and lungs should be emphasized, although different activities can be incorporated in your schedule for variety and convenience. This can include running, swimming, cycling or gym classes. Rest and a good diet are equally important. Age and gender do not have great bearing on one's suitability for a trip - the level of fitness, measured by aerobic capacity and stamina is more important, as is the ability to be consistent in your performance and state of mind throughout the trek. Being relaxed in the outdoors (in all of nature's moods!) in a foreign country is a very important quality to have. If you want to get a lot out of the trip, you will!
6 / 10
Moderate to Challenging

Carbon Footprint

35kg of CO₂-e PP per day

(349kg of CO₂-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

A photographer's delight, this unique and exclusive adventure takes you through secluded Patagonian wilderness
Sail through the stunning marble caves on Lake General Carrera
Trek around the Northern Patagonian Ice Fields marvelling at the crystal clear lakes fed by the glaciers
Camp within the pristine mountains with direct views of stunning glaciers
Cross one of the wildest and untouched areas in Patagonia

Overview

The Patagonia Condor Trail offers one of the most immersive and remote trekking experiences in South America - a wilderness route that redefines what it means to explore Patagonia on foot. Far from the crowds and familiar circuits, this adventure leads you deep into one of the continent’s most pristine and least visited landscapes.

You’ll hike through ancient forests, across glacial valleys, and along clear, fast-flowing rivers - with sweeping views of dramatic mountain ranges and the immense Northern Patagonian Ice Field, the largest expanse of ice in the Southern Hemisphere outside Antarctica. Along the way, you’ll also visit the surreal Capilla de Mármol - a labyrinth of marble caves carved by the turquoise waters of Lake General Carrera. In this part of Patagonia, human encounters are rare - solitude and silence are part of the reward.

This is a self-sufficient wilderness trek built for those with a high level of fitness, a resilient mindset and a desire to experience Patagonia as few ever will. It’s a raw and rewarding challenge - no crowded lookouts or predictable paths, just you, your crew, and the unfiltered landscape. With 50 years of experience operating remote-area treks, we design each element with safety, sustainability and authenticity at its core.

For those seeking something deeper than a classic route - something that shifts your perspective and reconnects you with the raw power of nature - the Condor Trail stands apart. Availability is limited due to the remoteness of the region and operational restrictions, so early planning is recommended.

Itinerary

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Today marks the start of your Patagonian adventure. Upon arrival at Balmaceda Airport, you will be met and transferred south to Terra Luna Lodge, located approximately 4–5 hours away. En route, and weather permitting, we take a boat excursion to the remarkable Capilla de Mármol (Marble Caves), a natural labyrinth of sculpted rock formed by the constant motion of Lake General Carrera over thousands of years. Set on the lake’s edge with views of snow-capped peaks and turquoise waters, Terra Luna Lodge offers a memorable and scenic introduction to this remote region. Note: The latest recommended arrival time at Balmaceda Airport is 12.00pm. Please plan your travel accordingly. Accommodation: Terra Luna Lodge or similar

Meals: L,D

After a relaxing night at the lodge, we begin our trekking adventure with a transfer to the trailhead. Our journey starts with a steady ascent through ancient rainforest, following the course of a river adorned with a series of cascading waterfalls. We reach Bosque Encantado (the Enchanted Forest), where we pause to take in panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers—a striking introduction to the region’s dramatic landscapes. The trail continues upward to El Balcón, a natural balcony overlooking glacial valleys, where we set up camp for the night. The remainder of the afternoon is free to soak up the alpine atmosphere and enjoy the spectacular scenery of this remote mountain environment. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today is a rest and preparation day as we organise and pack supplies for the coming days of trekking. We are now in the shadow of the Northern Patagonian Ice Field—one of the most remote and dramatic glacial regions in the world. Though smaller than its southern counterpart, this vast expanse stretches for hundreds of kilometres along the Andean spine and is home to more than 30 major glaciers. Weather permitting, there are opportunities to take short walks in the surrounding area or explore the glacial-fed waterways by kayak. The scenery is striking, with crystal-clear meltwater and sweeping views of snow-covered peaks and icefalls. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

After a quieter day to rest and prepare, we return to the trail for a more challenging day of trekking. The route begins with an ascent of approximately 300 metres before a steep descent into the dramatic Forgotten Valley (Valle Olvidado). Here, we pause to enjoy a packed lunch while taking in sweeping views across the Northern Patagonian Ice Field. Following our break, we climb once more to reach our campsite at La Tinita, set in a stunning location surrounded by snow-covered peaks and distant glaciers. The panoramic setting offers a rewarding end to a demanding but memorable day on the trail. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

We wake early for a full day of remote and challenging trekking through a dramatic landscape of peaks, lakes, and glaciers. Be prepared for wet feet today as sections of the trail involve water crossings and uneven terrain. We stop for lunch at El Balcón, surrounded by breathtaking scenery, before continuing uphill to reach the Glaciers Viewpoint. From this high vantage point, enjoy an incredible 360-degree panorama of the Northern Patagonian Ice Field. The scale of the ice is impressive, and this viewpoint offers a sense of how far the ice once extended during the last glacial maximum, around 18,000 years ago. From here, we enter one of the wildest and most remote sections of the trek, descending into the rugged terrain surrounding La Joyita, where we set up camp for the night. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today is a well-earned rest day, built into the itinerary to allow for flexibility in case of poor weather and to resupply for the next stage of the journey. If conditions are favourable and we are on schedule, there may be an opportunity to undertake a short ice climb to a nearby viewpoint, offering incredible views of the surrounding peaks and sheer rock and ice walls. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today we descend once again into the Forgotten Valley (Valle Olvidado), following the river downstream and enjoying the pristine, glacial-fed waters along the way. As we continue trekking through this remote valley, we reach a striking glacial lake fed directly by the Northern Patagonian Ice Field. The lake is often scattered with towering icebergs that have calved from the nearby glacier. With some luck, you may witness the dramatic moment of calving—heralded by loud cracks and booms echoing through the valley. We cross the lake by boat, carefully navigating through floating ice to the far shore, where we resume our trek toward Pecebre Base Camp (translated as “Fish Tank”). Set in a rugged and isolated landscape, this remote camp provides our resting place for the night. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today is a rest day at Pecebre Base Camp, allowing time to resupply and take in the extraordinary surroundings. Weather permitting, we take a short walk to the nearby glacier front—part of the Northern Patagonian Ice Field, home to some of the fastest-flowing glaciers on Earth. For those keen to explore further, and if conditions allow, there may be an option to join a short ice trek onto the glacier itself. This offers a unique opportunity to experience the ever-shifting, otherworldly landscape of ice formations up close. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today we ascend to the highest point of our trek, an exposed summit at 1300m (4265ft), which offers a privileged and truly unforgettable view over the Patagonian wilderness. From this vantage point, take in sweeping views of the Northern Patagonian Ice Field, the glacier-fed lakes we’ve traversed, and the towering Andes stretching into the distance. After time to absorb the scenery and catch our breath, we descend back to Pecebre Base Camp for a final night in this remote and awe-inspiring part of the world. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

This is the last day of our trekking in the region, heading out from our camp for the last few nights we leave Pecebre behind and trek through the surroundings. Today is a shorter trekking day as we will hop onboard the jet boat to ride return to Terra Luna Lodge. The jet boats we use are the latest in marine technology and can navigate up to 70 kilometres per hour in very shallow water (as low as 20cm!) to return from the glaciers. Tonight take the opportunity to relax in comfort, perhaps enjoy the private discothèque or soak in the jacuzzi, the lodge will ensure you are rejuvenated after your amazing trekking adventure. Accommodation: Terra Luna Lodge or similar

Meals: B,L,D

For the final day we have arranged a departure transfer to Balmaceda airport for you. Please note: We would recommend booking any departure flights after 3.00pm as the transfer between lodge and airport is around 5 - 6 hours.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

4 scheduled departures between 9 Nov 2026 and 8 Feb 2027.

Departs 9 Nov 2026 – ends 19 Nov 2026 (11 days)
Departs 7 Dec 2026 – ends 17 Dec 2026 (11 days)
Departs 11 Jan 2027 – ends 21 Jan 2027 (11 days)
Departs 8 Feb 2027 – ends 18 Feb 2027 (11 days)

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What's included?

Included

10 breakfasts, 10 lunches and 10 dinners
Airport transfers
2 nights Terra Luna Lodge or similar
8 nights camping
Specialised bilingual guide
Group camping equipment – includes tents, sleeping mats and cooking equipment, (Sleeping bag not provided, but available for hire)
Private road transportation
Tours - all guide fees and park entrance costs on all sections mentioned in the trip itineraries
Group medical kit

Not included

International airfares and departure taxes
Internal flights
Any drinks during meals at hotels, restaurant or refugios
Sleeping bag (can be hired at additional cost)
Tips
Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry and drinks of any kind

Discover Patagonia with World Expeditions

Extra trip info

Accommodation Will My Trip Run?FAQs

Terra Luna Lodge

Located 290 km south of Balmaceda Airport (4–5 hours by car or 1 hour by helicopter), Terra Luna Lodge sits on 8.5 hectares with over 400 meters of private beach and stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The lodge offers comfortable rooms, apartments, bungalows, and domes, all immersed in nature. On-site amenities include jet boats, a spa, helicopter access, and more - perfect for relaxation or adventure in the heart of Chilean Patagonia.

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.

Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.

Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.

Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

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This is a Moderate to Challenging trek requiring a good level of fitness and the ability to carry a full pack over rugged terrain.

You should be prepared to carry approximately 10–15 kg, including your personal belongings, sleeping bag and packed lunch.

We recommend bringing a comfortable, well-fitted 45–50 litre backpack.

No, you are responsible for carrying your own personal belongings throughout the trek.

Most camping equipment is transported by helicopter, although you will need to carry a tent on Day 4 and may be asked to assist with expedition equipment.

You will spend eight nights wilderness camping in two-person tents in remote locations with very limited facilities.

Yes, sleeping mats are provided, although you may bring your own for additional comfort.

Yes, travellers are expected to help erect and take down tents, collect water and clean their own eating utensils.

Some dietary requirements can be accommodated with at least one month’s notice, although options are limited in this remote environment.

Patagonia’s weather is highly changeable, so you should be prepared for cold, rain, strong winds and potentially snow, even in summer.

Yes, some sections involve water crossings and wet terrain, so waterproof clothing and suitable trekking footwear are essential.

This is an extremely remote wilderness trek, and you may not encounter another trekking group for the duration of the journey.

Rest days allow for recovery, resupply and weather flexibility, with optional activities possible when conditions permit.

The highest point is the summit of Putagonia at approximately 1,300 metres (4,265 ft).

We recommend arriving the day before the trip, or no later than 12:00pm on Day 1.

Departure flights from Balmaceda on Day 11 should be booked after 3:00pm.

No, this trip is not suitable for travellers with limited mobility due to the rugged terrain and physical demands.

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Patagonia - Condor Trail Adventure

Trip highlights

Overview

Itinerary

Ready to start your adventure?