Setting out on a 2-day private hiking tour to La Paloma Glacier promises an unforgettable adventure amidst the breathtaking Andes. Traversing the stunning Yerba Loca Nature Sanctuary, this all-inclusive excursion offers a chance to take in diverse ecosystems, marvel at turquoise lakes, and witness ancient glacial formations. With personalized attention from experienced guides, hikers can look forward to camping along the river, savoring hearty meals, and witnessing spectacular sunsets. However, the true essence of this journey lies in the opportunity to disconnect from the everyday and fully embrace the untamed beauty of the Andes.

This experience made our list of the 4 Best 2 Day Tours In Santiago.

Good To Know

  • This private 2-day hiking tour covers 21 miles with a maximum elevation of 3,400 meters, including a visit to the Yerba Loca Nature Sanctuary.
  • The tour provides all necessary equipment, such as trekking poles, tents, sleeping bags, and pads, along with private transportation and accident insurance.
  • Participants can explore the diverse ecosystem of the Yerba Loca Nature Sanctuary, spotting Andean condors and admiring turquoise lakes and waterfalls.
  • Guests will camp at the foot of the Andes, with four-season tents, hearty meals, and breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
  • The tour is led by experienced, knowledgeable guides with a 1:4 guide-to-guest ratio, ensuring a personalized and safe hiking experience.

Tour Overview

The private 2-day hiking tour to La Paloma Glacier near Santiago, Chile, covers a total distance of 21 miles over two days.

The tour reaches a maximum elevation of 3,400 meters and includes a visit to the Yerba Loca Nature Sanctuary, a protected area.

Hikers will camp along the river at the foot of the Andes.

The all-inclusive tour provides equipment like trekking poles, four-season tents, sleeping bags, and pads.

A guide is assigned for every 4 guests to ensure a personalized experience.

Inclusions and Exclusions

2-Day Private Hiking Tour to La Paloma Glacier - Inclusions and Exclusions

This private hiking tour to La Paloma Glacier includes all the necessary equipment and provisions for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

The tour is all-inclusive, with equipment provided such as trekking poles, a four-season tent, sleeping bag, and pad. Breakfast, two lunches, and cooking equipment are also included.

Private transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off is provided, along with accident insurance. Participants are responsible for their personal clothing.

The tour operates with a guide-to-guest ratio of 1:4 to ensure personalized attention. Dietary requirements can be accommodated, with a vegetarian option available.

The tour is suitable for moderately fit travelers aged 14 and above, but isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions.

Pickup and Return Details

2-Day Private Hiking Tour to La Paloma Glacier - Pickup and Return Details

The private hiking tour to La Paloma Glacier departs from your hotel in Santiago at 7:30 am.

The tour includes private transport, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

After the two-day adventure, you’ll be returned to your hotel in Santiago.

The key pickup and return details include:

  • Departure from your Santiago hotel at 7:30 am
  • Return to your Santiago hotel after the tour
  • Private transport provided for the entire trip

The early morning start allows for a full day of hiking and exploration in the stunning Yerba Loca Nature Sanctuary and the magnificent La Paloma Glacier.

Participant Requirements

Minimum age for participants is 14 years.

The tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness, so it’s not recommended for those with heart problems, serious medical conditions, back problems, or pregnant travelers.

There must be a minimum of 2 people per booking.

Dietary requirements should be advised at the time of booking, and a vegetarian option is available.

The tour guides are well-prepared and experienced, as evidenced by the positive reviews.

Free cancellation is possible up to 3 days before the tour.

Exploring Yerba Loca Nature Sanctuary

During the hike, you will venture into the Yerba Loca Nature Sanctuary, a protected area nestled within the Andes mountain range.

The sanctuary boasts a diverse ecosystem, with opportunities to observe native flora and fauna. Some highlights of the Yerba Loca exploration include:

  • Spotting elusive Andean condors, the largest flying birds in the Western Hemisphere, soaring overhead
  • Admiring the stunning landscapes, including turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls
  • Discovering ancient glacial formations and learning about the region’s rich geological history

The nature sanctuary offers a chance to take in the pristine beauty of the Chilean Andes, providing a truly memorable experience for hikers on this private tour.

Camping at the Foot of the Andes

After a day of invigorating hiking through the Yerba Loca Nature Sanctuary, the tour’s itinerary culminates in setting up camp at the foot of the majestic Andes.

Guests will be provided with a four-season tent, sleeping bag, and pad to ensure a comfortable night’s rest. The camp is situated along a nearby river, providing a picturesque backdrop for the evening.

The guides will prepare a hearty meal over the campfire, allowing guests to recharge after a day of activity. As the sun sets, travelers can take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks before retiring for the night, eager to wake up and continue their adventure the following day.

Knowledgeable and Experienced Guides

According to the tour overview, one guide is provided for every four guests, ensuring personalized attention and a high level of expertise throughout the hiking excursion.

The guides are described as knowledgeable and experienced, with a focus on safety and the well-being of the participants. The tour reviews further highlight the guides’ preparedness, knowledge, and ability to create a memorable experience for the hikers.

Some key attributes of the guides include:

  • Extensive experience leading hikes in the Andes
  • Thorough knowledge of the local environment and wildlife
  • Commitment to ensuring the safety and comfort of guests

This level of guidance and support is crucial for a successful and enjoyable hiking adventure to the La Paloma Glacier.

Positive Reviews and Cancellation Policy

The private hiking tour to La Paloma Glacier has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an overall rating of 5.0 based on 4 reviews.

Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable and experienced guides, who were described as "wonderful," "prepared," "knowledgeable," and "experienced." One reviewer praised the guide, Nicolas, as a "consummate host."

The tour also offers free cancellation up to 3 days in advance, providing flexibility for participants.

With a knowledgeable team and high customer satisfaction, the La Paloma Glacier tour is a reliable choice for hikers seeking a memorable adventure in the Andes mountains near Santiago, Chile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Camping Equipment?

According to the tour overview, the equipment is provided for the hike, including a four-season tent, sleeping bag, and pad. Participants are only required to bring their personal clothing, and dietary requirements must be advised at the time of booking.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Children?

The tour has a minimum age requirement of 14 years. Younger children are not permitted due to the challenging hike and high elevation. However, the tour does offer a vegetarian option to accommodate dietary needs.

What Type of Clothing Is Recommended for the Hike?

The personal clothing required includes layers suitable for cold and potentially wet weather, sturdy hiking boots, moisture-wicking socks, sun protection, and comfortable clothing for the hike and camping. Specific recommendations are not provided, but guests should pack appropriately for the conditions.

Is There an Option for a Single-Person Tent?

The tour provides shared tents for guests, but doesn’t offer a single-person tent option. Participants must bring their own personal clothing, but all other necessary equipment like sleeping bags and pads are included in the all-inclusive tour.

Can I Book the Tour for a Different Number of Days?

Yes, the tour can be booked for a different number of days. According to the information provided, the standard tour is a 2-day hike, but the tour operator may offer alternative itineraries upon request.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the stunning Andes on this private 2-day hiking tour to La Paloma Glacier. Explore the diverse Yerba Loca Nature Sanctuary, camp by the river, and witness breathtaking scenery with personalized attention from knowledgeable guides. With positive reviews and a flexible cancellation policy, this all-inclusive adventure offers an unforgettable opportunity to experience the beauty of the Andes.