Details:

Having set sail from Punta Bandera harbor at 9AM, we will glide over the waters of Lake Argentino’s Northern Arm to reach the furthest possible point of navigation in the Upsala Channel, where we can enjoy an incredible panoramic view of the Upsala Glacier’s immense front. Then, having disembarked at the shores close to Estancia Cristina, the Discovery group are welcomed by our specialized driver-guides who will help them into their 4×4 vehicles, ready to head off into the wilderness.

Our sturdy 4WDs will then venture up into the Feruglio Mountains, a 9.5km ride which offers great views of our surroundings and takes us ultimately to an elevated area where the cars will be parked. Once there, we’ll begin a 20-minute trek over terrain characterized by glacial erosion, until reaching the Upsala Glacier Lookout; an exclusive vantage point for visitors to appreciate this immense glacier that can only be accessed from Estancia Cristina.

There will be plenty of time here to enjoy views of Lake Guillermo and the eastern side of the Upsala Glacier, as well as the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. Afterwards, the groups will head back to the lodge in our 4×4 vehicles, for a well-deserved rest and break for lunch (approx. 1 hour). Later on, having returned from the trek, we will visit the Costumbrista Museum, housed in the estancia’s old shearing shed where guests can learn all about the history of the Masters family: their lives, adventures and how they became pioneers in Patagonia. Finally, a guided tour will take visitors around Estancia Cristina’s estate – up to the Caterina River, the waterwheel, chapel and the rest of the lodge.

Important:

• Minimum age: no restriction
• Maximum age: 85 years.
• The exact logistics of activities involved in this excursion shall be defined by Estancia Cristina.

Lunch (optional):

Lunch at Estancia Cristina is optional and can be requested when reserving the excursion. If bringing your own lunch, the estancia also offers a cafeteria service.

Includes:

• Appetizer (two meat or corn empanadas)
• Main course (lamb stew with grilled vegetables or pasta with mushroom pesto and sundried tomatoes)
• Dessert (flan/cake).
• One soft drink or glass of wine per person + coffee or tea.

Vegetarian/Celiac options are also available.

Transfer to Punta Banderas Port:

The excursion begins at Punta Banderas Port, located 47kms from the city of Calafate. Estancia Cristina offers a regular transfer service to the Port from Calafate – departing from city hotels from 7:30am. with an additional cost of  US$30 per person,  otherwise guests can organize their own transfers (maximum show-up time at the port 8:45am).

Additional Charge: : as required by National Parks Services regulations, the cost of the Entrance Fee to the “Los Glaciares” National Park will be automatically added to the ticket value of the activity.