Chile Backcountry Camping Tours
This tour is for the adventurous at heart who don't mind roughing it a bit and putting in the effort to earn their turns.
The 8-night/9-day itinerary provides you with ample opportunity to explore a number of Chile's incredible volcanoes including Osorno, Casablanca, Puyehue, Llaima, Lonquimay, and Villarica whilst soaking up the laid-back Chilean way-of-life.
The tour is for private groups of up to 6 with a minimum of 2 (the cost is slightly more for 2 guest only).
For each 3 guests you will have a self-contained 4x4 camper truck which comfortably accommodates 3 guests in a double bed & 2 single beds. You could squeeze 4 into a van but 2-3 works best. You will self-drive your camper or your guide may drive it for you depending on the configuration of the group.
You will ski/ride with a local multi-lingual certified UIAGM-IFMGA Mountain Guide in groups of up to 4 guests per guide.
Your guide will be available to you 24/7 for the duration of the tour and in addition to the awesome skiing & riding, they will introduce you to the local culture, hot springs, incredible local restaurants & bars.
The package includes your 4x4 truck camper accommodations, all meals & daily guiding.
Other activities on this tour could include heli skiing for an additional cost.
Group Type
You can only book this tour as a private group any time during the custom date period. The minimum group size is 2 and the maximum is 6.
Locations
You will visit several volcanoes in northern Patagonia including Osorno, Casablanca, Puyehue, Llaima, Lonquimay, and Villarica.
Terrain
There are no lifts being used on this tour; its focus is on backcountry skiing, mountaineering and mixed style descents with slopes between 25 and 35 degrees. The tour is not suited to non-skiers or those that just want to cruise a resort.
Ability
You must be of a medium to high level of physical fitness and skiing/riding ability. You don't necessarily require a vast amount of touring experience (although this would be beneficial to achieve the bigger objectives) as all groups are private. So as long as the group is of similar abilities for this then you can get instruction along the way.
Equipment
In addition to the basic backcountry equipment (which can be rented with advanced notice) you may require ice axes and crampons depending on the conditions. Your guides will be able to arrange this if it becomes a requirement.
Guiding & Hosting
You will have an experienced local guide/host for the duration of the tour who will be available 24/7. The guide ratio is 1:4 guests. If there are 6 guests, you will have 2 guides & 3 camper trucks.
For your safety, all guides are certified and qualified and you will be guided by someone who lives and spends most of his time in this area.
Itinerary
This itinerary entails a thrilling adventure exploring Chile's volcanic landscapes via camper trucks.
Starting in Puerto Montt, it spans nine days of volcanic conquests and scenic marvels. This itinerary is designed to maximize your skiing/snowboarding adventure however it may be modified according to weather conditions and your personal desires. If conditions are difficult, there are options to skiing/ride in monkey trees/ araucaria forests where visibility isn't an issue.
Day 1: Arrival in Puerto Montt & travel to Osorno Volcano
You will arrival at Puerto Montt, where you will be greeted by your guide with your camper ready to go. You will drive to the base of the Osorno Volcano where you will rest in preparation for skiing/riding and where spend the evening. Depending on the arrival time it may be possible to do a short warm up on the Volcano.
Day 2: Conquering Osorno Volcano
Ascend Osorno, an exhilarating 1500-meter climb, skiing with skins, crampons, and ice axes. Return to the camper to enjoy a spectacular sunset over the lake and the Pacific Ocean.
Day 3: Journey to Casablanca Volcano
Drive your camper truck to the Casablanca Volcano area, starting a hike around noon. Ski at sunset and rest in a nearby camping area.
Day 4: Adventure in Pucon and Araucanía
Travel north to Pucon to explore forests and immerse in Araucanía's culture. Admire the fascinating Araucaria trees.
Day 5: Conquering Villarrica Volcano
Ascend the iconic Villarrica Volcano, skiing 1400 meters down its slopes and culminating in a celebration with a local barbecue.
Day 6: Exploration around Lonquimay Volcano
Drive a couple of hours to the Lonquimay Volcano area, a tranquil day to prepare for upcoming adventures.
Day 7: Ascent of Llaima Volcano
Embark on an unforgettable ascent of Llaima Volcano, skiing from its 3125-meter peak.
Day 8: Enjoying Lonquimay Volcano
Experience the incredible Lonquimay Volcano and ski its slopes, even within its crater, before descending 1500 meters towards the hot springs.
Day 9: Rest and Travel to Puerto Montt Airport
Relaxation and preparation for departure, concluding the journey in the camper.
Travel to Puerto Montt Airport, where you'll return the camper.
NOTE: This is just a sample itinerary and you can request less or additional days as well as different starting points such as Santiago or Bariloche.
Accommodation
Introducing the Esnativa camper truck 4WD Toyota Hilux 2023.
These winterised camper trucks sleep up 4 in a double and 2 single beds (122×190 & 83×190 cm) with linen provided.
They features a full kitchen, 56L fridge, dining area, hot water, air heating, shower, and optional WC. Powered by a 12V deep cycle battery, solar panels, and 220V camping cable.
Comes with a portable speaker, cleaning kit, and basic insurance.
This rugged explorer boasts a 2.4L diesel engine, manual transmission, cruise control, and a radio with screen, CarPlay, and Android Auto, ensuring a comfortable and connected journey.
Meals
Breakfasts will be prepared by your guide(s) each day based on your preferences so no cooking is required in your camper.
Lunches & snacks will also be handled by your guides each day.
In the evening you will visit local restaurants (included in the price) to indulge in the local cuisine & culture.
Rates, Inclusions & Add-Ons
2024 Rates
USD $3,850 per person (private group of 3-6)
USD $4,300 per person (private group of 2)
- rates include taxes
- base rate is USD but can be invoiced in your currency
Inclusions
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8 nights camper truck
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All meals and snacks
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Guided ski days by local, bilingual UIAGM-IFMGA certified Mountain Guide
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Pick up / drop off at Puerto Montt Airport
Add-ons
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Ski / snowboard rentals $95 usd per day includes boots, skis, poles, skins
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A day or more of heli skiing
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Argentina Bariloche $Enquire
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Additional days/nights - $Enquire
Not Included
Esnativa Backcountry Terms & Conditions
Payments
- Single programs require full payment upon booking
- For longer programs, a 50% deposit is required at the time of reservation. The balance must be paid 5 weeks before the program starts.
- Bookings made less than 4 weeks before the trip starts must be accompanied by full payment.
After Booking
- Along with receipts, we will send a sample of our liability waiver for your signature upon meeting, and if necessary, an experience questionnaire.
Booking Conditions
- Registration is subject to waiver completion and having travel insurance.
Changes and Cancellations
- Esnativa reserves the right to modify or cancel itineraries or services due to weather or other reasons, without penalty.
- We are not responsible for actions of third parties.
- In case of emergency, rescue costs may be the participant's responsibility.
Cancellation and Refunds
- Refund if Esnativa cancels.
- Penalties for client cancellation vary depending on notice period.
Limitations of Liability
- We are not responsible for actions of independent suppliers.
- Changes to the itinerary may be made for passenger comfort. Timely notification of any necessary changes will be provided.
Acceptance of Terms and Conditions
- These terms must be accepted prior to being confirmed for the tour.