HIKING TO THE EMERALD LAGOON IN USHUAIA

This is an active excursion, for those who enjoy walking and being outdoors in contact with nature. The forest, mountains and the glacier that surround it make the Emerald Lagoon an incredible place worth visiting.

This is one of the most interesting hikes to get to know the surroundings of Ushuaia and be surprised by the unique charm of the Laguna Esmeralda (Emerald Lagoon), hidden in the mountains.

The excursion begins in the morning with the transfer to the Valley of Tierra Mayor, just 20 km from Ushuaia on Route 3. Here we will start the walk of about two hours towards the lagoon, trekking through pristine forests, peat bogs, beaver dams, mountains and glaciers. Almost 5 km one way where we will cross over two valleys: Tierra Mayor, the largest in Tierra del Fuego  and also a Natural Reserve, located at 250 ms asl; and the Valley of Emerald River.

The trail enters the forest and then goes through a peat moss area where we cross a log bridge over the Emerald stream. From here we can see some beaver dams and part of the damage they cause in these forests. Not being a native species of this region, they cause serious damage to the local ecosystem.

From here, the landscape will alternate between forest and peat moss as we head deep into the valley. Along the path you will see incredible landscapes surrounded by mountains and snowy peaks, plus the crystal clear stream that comes from the lagoon.

At around 11 am, we will reach the beautiful Emerald Lagoon going up a hill, located at the foot of the Ojo de Albino glacier, between the Bonete hill and the Toribio cord. Its green waters live up to its name and contrast with the reddish color of the peat moss that surround it. We will enjoy the scenery for an hour while we take photos, rest and enjoy a picnic lunch in the mountain to regain strength for the way back.

We will return by the same path, and we might take a shortcut to see a gigantic beaver dam on the way. By 2.30 pm we will be back at the hotel

GENERAL INFORMATION

  • 6 hs regular excursion.
  • Departure time at 8.30 am.
  • Operates daily.
  • Distance: 10 km (6.1 miles) round-trip.
  • Includes: Round-trip transportation from hotels, picnic lunch with empanadas, fruits, cereals, alfajores and hot beverage).
  • It is recommended to wear hiking shoes or boots and a backpack. Bring sunscreen, a cap and sunglasses.

STUNNING EASY HIKE IN BARILOCHE

We bring you one of the most beautiful trekking circuits in Patagonia, to enjoy and explore without much effort, interpret the wet forest ecosystem and be surprised with an incredible panoramic view.

Throughout the year, this hike offers a relaxed alternative to explore the Llao Llao peninsula in Bariloche, and access very beautiful panoramic views without much effort. The ascent is smooth and does not require any special physical condition, except feeling like walking and enjoying the surroundings.

The trekking day begins near the famous Llao Llao Hotel. Here, we follow a system of well-marked and not very steep trails through the Natural Reserve of the Llao Llao Peninsula, an area designed to protect and preserve an ancient forest of Cypresses and Coihues, among other species of evergreen trees. We focus on enjoying nature by accessing different shores of the Moreno and Nahuel Huapi lakes.

Combining several trails, we reach Villa Tacul, a set of crystal clear water bays. At this spot we find the ideal place to rest after having completed the first section and enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake.

In the afternoon, we continue our journey and ascend to the top of Llao Llao Hill, with its beautiful views and captivating flora full of native orchids and lilies.

 At 1080 meters high, from the hill we can appreciate one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the Nahuel Huapi and Moreno lakes, the enchanting Victoria Island, the Millaqueo, Capilla and López hills, the Escondido lake and the Tristeza arm. The famous stunning postcard from Bariloche. Without a doubt, this place is unique.

After taking in so much natural beauty, we begin the descent by another path and we cross the Peninsula back to the starting point.

This is the perfect easy hike for people who enjoy long walks, but without too much physical effort. To enjoy the forest and nature in all its splendor. A must for those who are lucky enough to visit Bariloche!

GENERAL INFORMATION

  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Recommended Season: yearlong
  • Duration of the activity: 4-6 hours
  • Length of the Trek:  10 kms
  • Starting Altitude: 780 msnsm
  • Max Altitude Climbed:  1005 msnsm
  • Elevation gained: 225 mts
  • Service includes: Bilingual Certified Mountain Guide / Box lunch + water + tea + snacks / First Aid Kit + VHF Radio + GPS / Insurance + Permits

FULL PATAGONIAN EXPERIENCE

A natural reserve that combines comfort, hospitality and domes in the middle of the forest.

Huemules Mountain Reserve is located on the Rivadavia Mountain Range, 22 km from Esquel, Chubut province. 6100 hectares of natural reserve, next to Los Alerces National Park, with snowy mountain summits, streams and forests of original species. 

This project aims not only to offer accommodation, but a full experience to embrace Patagonian nature like nowhere else; including local cuisine, the kindest service, as well as a variety of adventurous activities, four daily meals and a daily guided tour.

At Huemules you will stay at a private dome with great panoramic view, amenities and services that provide the utmost comfort while maintaining that special feeling of living in nature. In total, there are 10 double and triple domes of 28m2 each, with private bathroom, hot water, electricity, wood stove, deck and private balcony. 

Between November and April, Huemules provides recreational outdoor half or full day activities to enjoy the reserve’s natural environment and landscapes. Horseback riding, trekking and mountain biking circuits with different levels of difficulty, altitudes and breathtaking scenery just in the company of the Patagonian immensity. 

For this summer, there will be six daytime trekking paths, and a special night time one, when there’s a full moon. Hiking through forests, valleys and creeks while enjoying mountain views and learning about local flora and fauna is a great way to get to know the Patagonia.

As for horseback riding, there will be three circuits, one of each level of difficulty. Vidal and El Cruce are also two of the trekking paths, so this is an option for a more relaxed journey through the reserve’s surroundings. 

For more adventurous people, mountain biking is your choice! Three half day circuits and one full day, all of them offer a thrilling experience up and down slopes, zigzagging across the woods. Adrenaline rush guaranteed going downhill traversing the lenga forest on Downhill Norte circuit. 

Gastronomy is a very important part of this experience. Meals are included with your stay, so be prepared to enjoy Patagonian flavors all the way.

To start the day, a typical buffet breakfast with hot infusions and freshly squeezed seasonal fruits juices. Also, a selection of eggs a la carte and croissants, freshly baked breads and homemade marmalades in addition to cereals, yoghurts and an assortment of regional fruits.

Lunch at Huemules is an invitation to learn and enjoy typical Patagonian cooking techniques where fire is the main character. Cordero a la cruz (upright charcoal grilled lamb) and a typical Argentinian barbecue all served with grilled seasonal vegetables and salads prepared with herbs are just an example of what they offer to renew energies for the next mountain adventure.

Upon arrival from the tours, in the warm atmosphere of the restaurant, hot infusions, delicious pastries, chocolate and fruits will be served while waiting for the sunset.

For dinner, the finest local dishes, regional products, Patagonian beef, lamb, trout and game meats prepared according to traditional recipes, paired with the best Patagonian wines and beers.

Delight yourself with great meals, fun activities and an enchanting environment where snowy mountains, forests and streams provide the perfect atmosphere for relaxation. 

GENERAL INFORMATION

  • Included in the rate: Accommodation in the dome – Four daily meals – A daily tour – Natural water.
  • Not included: Soft and alcoholic drinks – Additional tours – Transfers.
  • Huemules will open in November 2019. Summer season will be extended until Easter Sunday 2020.

 

 

Unplugged Holidays in Patagonia

La Maipu Ranch. The mystic that surrounds this iconic Ranch located in the middle of nowhere will encourage you to ponder on your lifestyle and disconnect from your routine.

 This 45.000 Ha ranch in the Lake San Martin area, is completely off-the-grid. The nearest airport is El Calafate. Then a 4 hours drive through the mythic route 40  will get you there.

Besides the breathtaking views, this ranch is famous for its history. The Lively brothers were the first owners and also the first settlers of the area. Mr. Joseph Lively arrived in 1902, thanks to Francisco ”Perito” Moreno who conceded them the land right before the territorial dispute between Argentina and Chile. The current owners of La Maipú kept Joseph’s cabin as a museum that takes you back in time to the old -and even wilder- Patagonia, where just natives and a few adventurous foreigners lived.

New owners created the La Maipu concept: high quality service, relaxed experiences that show their passion for nature, outdoor life and the love for food and wine. The in-house chef creates his own signature dishes with fresh ingredients from the organic garden.

They have conservation in their minds so you have to be ready to enjoy a simpler way of life that takes into consideration a sustainable use of electricity (3 hours a day) and of satellite wi-fi connection ( 20 minutes a day per person)

Regarding activities, you will love exploring untouched wilderness in any of the eight trails organized with great care. The Ranch favourite is La Condorera. An eight hour trek , both ways, will take you to the peak of this beautiful mountain where the great Andean Condors nest. Other incredible adventures take you to go out and discover, watch and listen to more than forty bird species  or grab a mountain bike and explore the ranch’s ground on your own.

Another great experience is to realize your own smallness as you snuggle up in a warm blanket in the open at night to watch the countless stars and listen to the sound of the Patagonian silence. The immense Universe is there for you to admire.  

GENERAL INFORMATION

  • The main house can accommodate up to 16 people in its three triple and three double cozy rooms, all with private bathroom and heating. The stay includes full board and a glass of wine.
  • We suggest a minimum of 3 nights.
  • Rates are per pax per day.

Basic program includes:
– Accommodation
– Full board (breakfast, lunch, mid-afternoon snacks, dinner with up to 2 house wine glasses.
– Satellite WiFi.
– Activities: a guide will design the excursions that best suit your preferences and interests (horseback riding not included).