Jeinimeni – Fachinal Traverse

Jeinimeni Traverse - Fachinal Patagonia Norte

The mountain traverse in the Aysén Region through the Lunar Valley and Jeinimeni National Park, crossing rivers, forests, and lagoons within the Jeinimeni National Reserve, offers an experience where exploration and wild landscapes are the central elements.

The remote trails that cross rivers, idyllic lakes, and glaciers descending from the mountains create a rare experience in these times, when almost everything has been discovered. This is a path without traces, where the traveler must intuitively find the best route step by step.

The physical and mental preparation of each participant is crucial, and logistics play a vital role. We will use previously set up mountain shelters with very simple "luxuries," such as enjoying a hot shower while gazing at the lenga forest, the Baguales glacier, and one of the countless lakes that decorate the Patagonian landscape of the region.

Accommodation is provided in mountain tents, in a camping style, always in carefully selected locations to avoid damaging the pristine and natural landscape we will be immersed in.

PROGRAM

DAY 1. MEETING IN COYHAIQUE

On this day, we will meet at a location to be confirmed, where we will hold an initial briefing to go over the plan, discuss the trip conditions, and address any general inquiries. Afterward, we will cross to Chile Chico.

DAY 2. FERRY CROSSING TO CHILE CHICO – LUNAR VALLEY HIKING

We will leave early from Coyhaique in a private transfer. We will cross General Carrera Lake by ferry and then head towards the Lunar Valley for a 3 to 4-hour hike. The purpose is to check the group's pace, activate our bodies, and explore the beautiful, unique valley filled with rocks and Tehuelche remains in the area. Return to cabins, prepare gear for the coming days. Dinner and rest.

DAY 3. ENTERING JEINIMENI NATIONAL PARK

Early breakfast. We will transport to the park, where we will begin an exploration of approximately 24 kilometers of little-marked trails, crossing rivers. The first main objective will be the Paso La Gloria. After crossing the majestic Lago Verde, we will venture through a narrow valley to reach the Glaciar Refuge. Dinner and rest.

DAY 4. VISIT TO THE GLACIER AND REFUGE

A mountain day with stunning views and an easy 3 to 4-kilometer hike to observe the Cerro Baguales Glacier. Afterwards, we will enjoy the refuge and campsite, preparing everything for the following day. Mountain dinner and rest.

DAY 5. CROSSING THE FACHINAL VALLEY – REFUGE 2

A rewarding 12-kilometer hike through wetlands and lenga forests as we make our way to the valley. In this area, it's possible to spot local wildlife and observe how the vegetation changes as we progress.

DAY 6. REFUGE 2 - DEPARTURE TO FACHINAL

This day marks the last, but no less beautiful, part of the journey. The activity begins with a river crossing and a descent through a canyon where we approach the river and enjoy breathtaking views of the valley from various viewpoints. Continuing downhill, we’ll reach the Fachinal area, completing a 22-kilometer hike in total. Once we finish the trail, we will travel by transport to the Chile Chico area, where we’ll enjoy a barbecue or meal at the cabins. Rest and end of the program.

Includes:

All campsites with tents for 2 people, shared cabin in Chile Chico, professional mountain guide, 1 porter for every 3 people (to carry sleeping bags and personal belongings), all meals, use of refuge for dinner and common use, all transportation, satellite phone service in refuges.

Not Included:

Sleeping bag, personal hiking equipment, air transfers, or hotel in Coyhaique. If you have any doubts, we can recommend options according to your needs.

What to Bring:

Hiking clothes, quick-dry shoes, headlamp, trekking poles, walking gloves and warm gloves, 30L daypack, personal water bottle, snacks for hikes (such as cereal bars, dried fruits, chocolates, gels), warm and sun hat, sunscreen, waterproof jacket and pants.