A 7-night Patagonian fjords expedition in private through the Chilean fjords, rafting, hiking, riding, volcano-skiing and heli-fishing in the most pristine corner of the Patagonian Pacific…
DAY 1
Fly from Santiago to Puerto Montt, Chile (1 hour 45 mins), where you will be driven to the port to board a state-of-the-art Patagonian fjords expedition yacht, The Atmosphere. Built exclusively to explore the boundless wilderness of Southern Chile’s fjords, the recently refurbished boat accommodates 28 guests across 14 surprisingly spacious cabins. Equipped with 2 helicopters, custom jet boats and more than 80 water toys, Atmosphere provides a truly unique opportunity to explore Patagonia by air, land and water – reaching the most pristine and remote corners of the Andes for some of the worlds best fly-fishing (Nov-Mar) and superb heli-skiing (Sept-Nov).
Settle into your cabin before enjoying a welcome dinner of world-class cuisine & Chilean wine.
DAY 2
After a delicious breakfast, board the Bell 407 helicopter to explore the area from the skies, soaring over thick, untouched forests and over looming mountain peaks.
A fleet of McKenzie boats and jet boats have been strategically placed for fishing adventures into deeper territory, allowing guests access to the most secluded rivers and lagoons. Anglers have the opportunity to fish with a variety of expert guides throughout the week. Drop a line, taking in Patagonia’s breathtaking scenery and the sounds of undisturbed nature.
At lunchtime, indulge in a gourmet picnic on the riverbank or in your zodiac, then return to the ship for sundowners on the deck and a dip in the hot tub before dinner.
DAY 3
Covering 926km over the course of the expedition, you will wake each to new scenery. This morning, you will journey upriver to enjoy a day of adrenalin-charged adventure along wild Patagonian rapids. Specialist guides will teach you white-water rafting, hydro-speeding and jet-boating as you venture through the crystalline waters – much of this region is inaccessible to other boats.
A gourmet picnic will be waiting for you on the riverbank. In the afternoon, either continue playing in the river and making the most of the water toys or enjoy a peaceful afternoon lazing on the riverbank before returning to the ship with plenty of time to freshen up before dinner.
DAY 4
Along with fly-fishing and heli-skiing, this expedition provides endless opportunities for a variety of soft-adventures, and each day’s excursions are completely flexible (weather dependent). Explore the virgin shores of the fjords by boat, kayak down peaceful tributaries, or hike up into the mountains through verdant forests.
The diversity of wildlife in the region is incredible – a paradise for bird-watchers and nature photographers, with a vast variety of landscapes and terrain to discover each day as the yacht journeys south.
DAY 5
From Nov-March, the mountains offer fantastic trekking and biking. For those able to travel on earlier expedition departures from Sept-Nov, conditions for heli-skiing are perfect. Board the helicopter for an adventure in the high peaks of the Andes. Specialist guides have already tested the sites for accessibility, level of difficulty and quality of descent. Ski down virgin snow on the southernmost mountains on the planet, with panoramic views over glaciers and fjords.
After an exhilarating day above the clouds, return to the warm refuge of Atmosphere, with plenty of time to relax in the spacious lounge and mingle with other guests in the bar. Replenish your energy with a sauna, massage or leisurely soak in the hot tubs, looking out across the Patagonian wilderness with a cocktail in hand.
DAY 6
This morning you will wake to the stunning scenery of Puntiagudo volcano, home to glistening blue glaciers and snow-capped Andean peaks.
Today you will be taken out on a heli-kayaking adventure through the Corcovado River with a chance of paddling next to endemic dolphins and sea lions. You will stop for a delicious picnic lunch before continuing by foot to a secluded lagoon, abundant with birdlife.
Wine-tasting awaits you back on board (arranged daily by the crew for guests to sample lesser-known Chilean fine wines), followed by a spoiling supper.
DAY 7
Your final day is left free for you to do as you please, making the most of magnificent Patagonia and the Atmospheres expert guides. A favourite excursion is taking a zodiac ride to a secluded part of the river to while away the day with some tranquil fly-fishing. Due to the region’s exceptional conditions, trophy catches aren’t hard to come by.
Before sunset, take a helicopter ride over pure waters towards Chaiten for a glimpse of the recently active volcano – soaring over the fjords and drinking in sensational scenery on your final Patagonian fly-by. Enjoy a celebratory farewell dinner with back on board the boat.
DAY 8
Disembark Atmosphere today in good time for your private transfer back to the airport to catch your onward flight.
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