Puma Tracking - Patagonia
Join us on this incredible photographic adventure and experience the magic of Torres del Paine National Park like never before! The Patagonian winter is the best season of the year for Puma photography due to the favorable light conditions and the low number of people in the observation area, which increases the number of sightings without disturbing the pumas with the presence of many cars and groups on the roads where they are normally observed.
Unlike other seasons, where daylight hours are prolonged, the light during these times is often harsh and overly bright, which can negatively impact the quality of the images captured. In the winter season, with fewer daylight hours, we maximize the most productive search times by spending the entire day in the field, ensuring optimal conditions for photography.
In addition to pumas, this expedition offers you the opportunity to photograph and observe the iconic Magellenic Woodpecker, Austral Pygmy Owl, Chilean Flamingos, guanacos, the mighty Andean Condor, and landscapes that seem straight out of a dream. Each day promises new and exciting surprises in this natural paradise.
In winter, it can also be observed that some pumas experience changes in their fur due to the cold conditions, making them look larger and more prominent in photographs. They also tend to show increased activity during this season due to the constant movement of their primary food source, the Guanaco, which seeks food in lower areas within the National Park. This provides additional opportunities to capture interesting and exciting moments of their behavior.
Itinerary
Today we will welcome you to the city of Punta Arenas, at the southernmost tip of the continent. We will greet you at the Presidente Carlos Ibáñez International Airport and transfer you to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
INCLUDES: Transfer in and accommodation in Punta Arenas at Hotel Almasur.
Today, after breakfast, we will head to Puerto Natales on a 240 km journey that will take us approximately 3.5 hours.
We will arrive at a good time to explore the waterfront and observe some species such as the Chilean Flamingo, Black-necked Swan, Coscoroba Swan, Crested Ducks, Imperial Cormorant, among other species, with a beautiful landscape as a backdrop.
Once at the hotel, we will settle in and get to know the participants while discussing the activities for the upcoming days.
INCLUDES: Transportation, guide, meals (B/L/D), accommodation in Puerto Natales at Hotel Martín Gusinde.
Get ready for an exciting expedition in Torres del Paine National Park! Over the next few days, we will start our adventures before dawn, heading to the best areas for puma observation with specialized trackers from the region. Our main goal: to capture stunning photographs of pumas (Puma concolor).
Each day we will depart from Cerro Castillo at Ovejero Patagonico to reach the observation area a few minutes early to enjoy the spectacular sunrises that paint the sky with vibrant colors. The perfect setting to begin our search for the majestic pumas!
When we find a puma, we will stay with it, capturing every moment with our cameras and enjoying the adrenaline of this incredible encounter. We will spend as much time as possible in the reserve, exploring and photographing every corner.
Since the days are shorter in the winter season, we will spend the entire day in the field, optimizing the search time for these magnificent felines and absorbing the beauty of this place. We will return to the Estancia Ovejero Patagonico with the last light of the afternoon to celebrate the sightings, enjoy a delicious dinner, and perhaps a glass of wine, before having a well-deserved and pleasant rest, preparing for another day full of excitement.
In addition to pumas, the reserve offers us the opportunity to photograph Guanacos, the stunning Gray Fox, Condors, and landscapes that seem straight out of a dream. Each day promises new and exciting surprises in this natural paradise.
INCLUDES: Puma trackers, 4×4 transportation, entrance to Torres del Paine National Park, meals (B/L/D), accommodation in Cerro Castillo Ovejero Patagonico
We start early, as the dawn light begins to tint the Patagonian sky. We head towards the heart of Torres del Paine National Park, with majestic landscapes reflecting in the tranquil waters of various lakes along the way. As we progress, each bend in the road reveals panoramic views of snow-covered mountains and frozen valleys. We will pass by several lakes such as Pehoe, Mirador del Salto Grande, Mirador del Lago Nordenskjold.
Here we also begin our search for the iconic Magellanic Woodpecker (Campephilus magellanicus). With its striking colors and distinctive drumming, finding it will be an exhilarating experience. We will also be on the lookout for the Austral Pygmy Owl and other fascinating bird species that inhabit this wintery environment.
Every moment of this journey is designed to immerse you in the beauty and excitement of the Patagonian winter. From the stunning landscapes to encounters with diverse wildlife, this adventure promises to be an unparalleled experience. Upon arrival at Hotel Grey, you will enjoy wonderful views of the lake and later a delicious dinner at the hotel.
INCLUDES: Guide, private van transportation, entrance to Torres del Paine National Park, meals (B/L/D), accommodation at Hotel Lago Grey.
Today we will enjoy the morning around Lake Grey, and mid-morning we will travel along the road to Rio Serrano with amazing views of other lakes such as Lake Toro. This magical moment is postcard-worthy, creating the perfect end to our exciting journey, perhaps saying goodbye with one last sighting of the puma and the impressive natural cathedral formed by the Cuernos del Paine with their landscape. In the late afternoon, we will return to Puerto Natales to share and celebrate the last dinner of this adventure.
INCLUDES: Guide, private transportation, entrance to Torres del Paine National Park, meals (B/L/D), accommodation in Puerto Natales at Hotel Martín Gusinde.
After several incredible days filled with unforgettable moments, breathtaking landscapes, and capturing the elusive pumas on camera, it’s time to say «see you soon.» We part ways with the hope and excitement of sharing another adventure together in the future.
Following a restful night in Puerto Natales and a delicious breakfast, we’ll make our way back to Punta Arenas towards Presidente Carlos Ibáñez International Airport.
INCLUDES: Guide, private transportation to the airport in Punta Arenas, meals (B/-/-).
Patagonia 2025 Brochure
Book a Tour
NOTE: Please contact us if you have any questions and to get more details about our trips . To join a Neotropical Nature & Birding Trip, the easiest way is to send us an e-mail at info@neotropicalnature.com or fill out the form with your comments and contact information and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. You can also visit us in our office in Quito or send us a WhatsApp message to (+593) 997966818
Trips Considerations
CLIMATE: Patagonia is known for its variable climate, characterized by intense cold in winter, where temperatures can drop below 0 degrees. Therefore, it is essential to be well-prepared with appropriate clothing. Fortunately, during this season, the wind is not as strong as in other times of the year. The accommodations and vehicles will be equipped with heating at all times to ensure your comfort. It is crucial to wear clothing in layers: a first and second thermal layer, thermal socks, gloves, a hat, cold-weather coats, and waterproof clothing. This way, you will be protected against the elements and can fully enjoy the experience.
TIME ZONE: UTC/GMT -3 hours
VISA: Temporary Stay is the permit granted to foreign individuals who enter the country for tourism, business, or other reasons for a limited time, without the intention to reside or settle. The permit authorizes a stay of 90 days in the country, which can be extended for an additional 90 days only once. Individuals must prove that they have sufficient financial means to support their stay in the country.
CUSTOMIZED TOUR: Are you looking for a travel experience that is completely customized to your preferences? Allow us to assist you in designing a custom trip that will take you to practically any location you desire. With a personalized tour, you’ll have the freedom to travel with a group of your choice, all while setting your own schedule and pace. We may add extensions to other sites such as Calafate, El Chaltén in Argentina. Your specific preferences will be prioritized
Additional Days:
Please ask for further information on additional activities and destinations to extend your trip.
Included:
- Private service of a specialized Puma tracking guide.
- Private transportation.
- Accommodation in double occupation, single room occupation adds a price supplement.
- All meals listed in the itinerary with soft drink or purified water.
- Transfers In-Out.
- All excursions and activities listed in itinerary.
- Entrance fee to all the reserves and activities.
No Included:
- International airfare.
- Alcoholic Beverages.
- Tips.
- Personal expenses.
- Trip Cancellation & Medical Emergency Insurance.
- Any other item not specified.
