To the End of the World: Tierra del Fuego

The Chilean capital of Santiago, in the shadow of the Andes, is a sprawling South American metropolis home to around seven million people. The centre is a wonderful mix of the ancient and modern with 17th century cathedrals next to mirrored sky scrapers. This is a fascinating city to explore, perhaps visiting Pablo Neruda’s house in Bellavista or walking up San Cristobal Hill for amazing views across the city and to the mountains.

Flying south along the spine of the Andes you will reach the town of Punta Areans (Sandy Point), situated at the bottom of the American continent before it breaks up into islands. Here you will meet others joining the adventure into Tierra del Fuego (maximum 8). Over dinner your guides will introduce themselves and take you through the plan for the coming days.

After an early start you will leave Punta Arenas by boat and cross the Magellan Strait on your way to Porvenir, crossing the vast pampas to Chile’s only king penguin colony. The night will be spent at a simple estancia near Porvenir.

Travelling deep into the country you will reach Karukinka Park. This private reserve stretches some 740,000 acres, protecting the native environment and island’s biodiversity. You’ll take a 7km hike to Cerro Pietro Grande and witness the effect that beavers have on the landscape before reaching your cabin for the night near Lago Fagnano.

A day at sea exploring the majestic fjords of Tierra del Fuego. You’ll visit Parry Fjord and cross the Almirantazgo Sound and hike through forsts overlooking glaciers. There’s a very good chance of spotting elephant an leopard seals as well as the beautiful black browed albatrosses. On the second day of hiking you will reach the southern border of the park where snow is always possible as you reach the highest point with incredible mountain views.

Yendegaia National Park is part of a conservation project established by the late Douglas Tomkins who devoted much of his wealth to protecting Patagonia. It is generally closed to the public, but with special permission, you will explore this stunning region, hiking past high lagoons and through beautiful forests.

Leaving Tierra del Fuego you will return to Punta Arenas and fly north to Santiago then on to relax at one of the very best wineries in the country. Staying in a luxury cabana with private pool and spectacular views across the vines this is the perfect place to rest tired legs and refuel as you take in all that you have seen over the last few days.