Patagonia trek, Torres del Paine & Los Glaciares

Travelling by foot is an inherently sustainable activity and is undoubtedly the best way to travel through the wild Patagonian landscape. This trip supports a wide range of local businesses from our guides to locally-owned small lodges and the first eco lodge south of the Amazon.

During this itinerary, we spend four nights at the remarkable eco camp, a cluster of geodesic domes based on the hut-designs of Patagonia’s ancient inhabitants who lived in perfect harmony with their environment. The domes are designed to maximize guests’ exposure to nature and its elements, with the highest level of comfort allowed by sustainable development in a fragile environment. These unique tents are raised to limit the impact on the surrounding areas. Initiatives such as using solar and wind power instead of fossil fuels and the collection of water at one particular source for heating and storage (which helps to avoid the need to dig the terrain), all contribute to the policy of minimum environmental impact. The camp is a temporary structure and is removed during the winter to allow the site to return to its original state.

Throughout this trip we focus on experiences which require human power such as trekking, in preference to vehicle based itineraries. Our guides also adhere to a strict policy of “leave no trace” which is relevant to flora and fauna, waste disposal, visual and noise intrusion and other land users. During this trip we present client briefings on environmental awareness, responsibilities and practice with particular emphasis on highlighting local environmental issues and threats in Patagonia. We also offer our clients the opportunity to offset carbon emissions arising from international air travel to Chile and within the country. The national park fees paid support the ongoing management and conservation of the natural environment in this part of Patagonia.

By demonstrating that ecotourism provides economic support to the area, we further strengthen the argument that this wild land should be conserved. Our local partners lead the way in the environmental practice and adhere to the highest standards of “leave no trace” – an essential ethic in this pristine part of the world.

On request, we would be pleased to provide a full copy of our sustainable tourism statements which contains full details on our commitment to responsible tourism in Chile and other destinations in which we operate.