Outward Bound...Patagonia Style

Our overnight excursion with personal guide (Karina) and driver (Patrick) began the day before yesterday (Monday) on a beautiful, balmy day with comfortable temperatures in the mid 60's.

First stop was visit to pre-historic Milodon Caves (interior picture to right). Very large and imposing space with amazing rock formations.

We then traveled another 1-1/2 + hours over rough, unpaved roads to the estancia (picutre above left with flag), Hosteria Perlaes, which was located on the Fjord Esperanza in the most beautiful place imaginable with rolling hills, valleys, lakes, mountains, peaks, cows, grazing lands, and waterfalls. After lunch we rode horses for 3+ hours (picture upper left) in this idyllic setting, through waterways, knife-edge trails, running cows (felt like we were in the movie 'Australia'). After dinner we went to sleep since electricity in the ranch shut off at 11.30 pm.

The rains, wind and colder weather (low 40's) started overnight and contined throughout day 2 of our excursion which included a boat trip (large vessel with heat) down the waterways to Torres del Paine National Park where we saw many interesting sedementary rocks, sea lion caves, vegatation, hanging glaciers and mountains. In the pouring cold rain, with hats, gloves, rain gear secured, we hiked to the Sorrano Glacier (picture above center).

After hike we returned to heavier rain gear provided by tour company for our up river trip (2+ hours) in a Zodiac (open) boat with 8 other insane people. Even with pouring cold rain and hail pelting our faces, we were able to at least appreciate the low views, while the mountains and glaciers were unfortunately covered over with intense clouds.

Returned to town for cocktail hour and dinner at 10 pm.

Happy holidays to all - we look forward to finding a place in town open for our Christmas dinner and after another all day excursion back into Torres del Paine National Park for hopefully some clear mountain and glacier views.