The PhotoPills Expedition to Patagonia (Chile & Argentina) is Sold Out (Join the Waiting List)
The PhotoPills Expedition to Patagonia (Chile & Argentina) is SOLD OUT!
Wow!
All 12 spots are already gone!
Thanks so much :D
Wish to join us?
Don't give up!
There are always cancellations...
Click here to join the Waiting List.
Be the first one to know when a cancellation occurs.
We’re going to Patagonia (Chile & Argentina)...
Are you in?
Around the last quarter Moon...
From March 28th to April 10th 2024, Marco Grassi and Tyler Lekki (PhotoPills Masters) will be traveling across Patagonia (Chile & Argentina) to photograph the Autumn Colors (you’ll be in the Southern Hemisphere!), the Milky Way and the Golden Light along with some of the hidden treasures of one of the most dramatic landscapes on the planet...
We’ll explore both Los Glaciares National Park (Argentina) and Torres del Paine National Park (Chile)...
An adventurer’s dream!
Of course...
We’ll be taking photos all day long... and all night long!
But...
Can you imagine it?
To photograph the beautiful autumn colors, the Southern Hemisphere’s Milky Way and the golden light with majestic mountain peaks, giant glaciers and icebergs, sinuous rivers, roaring waterfalls, frozen lakes, dead trees and the pumas…
We’re dreaming about it!
To achieve it, we’ll use the planning power of PhotoPills and the expert knowledge of Marco Grassi and Tyler Lekki to always be at the right place at the right time.
Top secret: we have quite a few legendary photos planned already ;)
The Deal (only 1 spot left)
Since you subscribed to the Priority Access list...
We're offering you a €500 discount on the regular price!
All you have to do is to book 1 of the 12 spots available before Sunday October 22nd.
Read carefully all the details of this unique adventure.
And when you’re ready, click here to book your spot.
Please, book as soon as possible. The seats are sold on a first come, first served basis.
The Adventure
12 PhotoPillers | 2 PhotoPills Masters | Patagonia | Endless legendary photos
Warning! This is not a honeymoon...
We’re recruiting 12 brave PhotoPillers (PhotoPills and photography nerds) to join us on an 14-day expedition to photograph the fall colors, the Milky Way and the golden light along with the wonderful and remote corners of Patagonia, both Torres del Paine (Chile) and Los Glaciares (Argentina) National Parks...
Pumas included!
It’s a non-stop adventure to chase legendary photos and you are a key asset!
We have planned tons of photos, and we’ll travel many kilometers and hike a few more to capture them...
But we also want to maximize our flexibility in terms of itinerary and schedule in order to take advantage of all the opportunities that the changing weather will surely put in our way.
If we see something interesting happening in the sky, we’ll pick the best location possible, stop and take advantage of the occasion.
When we are hungry, we’ll stop and eat. When we are tired, we’ll stop and rest...
You are about to embark on a PhotoPills’ style journey. And it’s not going to be a honeymoon precisely... :P
The first part of this adventure is going to require a bit of physical effort... Including easy-moderate hikes and 5 nights of camping under the stars!
The good news is that there’ll be “porters” available to carry our things up the hill if you decide to hire one.
It’s an ideal adventure for people that love being outdoors, hiking and camping.
You’ll be a true photographer!
Are you in?
Day 1. Thursday, March 28th - Welcome to Patagonia!
It’s Thursday morning...
And you land in an early flight at the International Airport Comandante Armando Tola in El Calafate, Argentina.
Although, I recommend you arrive the day before to have 1 day to decompress.
10:00 am
After picking you up at the airport (or from your hotel in El Calafate) we’ll drive directly to El Chaltén, a small mountain village in the region of Santa Cruz, located on the riverside of Río de las Vueltas, near the base of Cerro Torre (3,128m) and Cerro Fitz Roy (3,405m) spires, two of our main subjects in this expedition.
1:50 pm
Lunch at a local restaurant in El Chaltén.
Or maybe you’d like to have homemade “empanadas” for lunch.
The options here are multiple.
3:00 pm
Checking-in at the Hotel Chaltén Suites and siesta (nap time)!
4:00 pm
Expedition briefing.
Marco Grassi and Tyler Lekki will go over the itinerary for the adventure, explaining the logistics, the locations and the photo opportunities we’ve specially planned for you. They’ll also cover the recommended gear and some important safety instructions.
Also, if you forgot to bring something, “no problemo”, you can always rent the gear you need in town. And also take the opportunity to get some snacks too :P
4:50 pm
PhotoPills class!
Get ready to learn lots of tips that will help you master PhotoPills once and for all :)
6:00 pm
After the briefing session and a 15 min drive we’ll arrive at Río de las Vueltas, also called Río Gatica.
It belongs to the basin of the Santa Cruz River and its name comes from the deep meanders that form along the course of the river.
The Sunset spot is not far away from the car park. Today we won’t hike.
From the river, the view of Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre is just stunning. The fall colors fill the scene.
It’s time to scout the area and fine tune our compositions. Including the meanders of the river in the foreground is always a good idea.
The spot is perfect to use both a wide angle lens and a telephoto lens.
Open PhotoPills and check this out:
Golden hour begins at 7:03 pm, Sunset is at 7:45 pm, golden hour ends at 20:04 pm, and blue hour ends at 8:17 pm.
As the Sun sets behind the mountain range, the scene is just beautiful.
8:00 pm
After the blue hour, when light begins to fade away, we’ll start our journey back to El Chaltén, where a delicious dinner awaits.
8:30 pm
Dinner in a local restaurant.
10:30 pm
Bed time.
Tomorrow we’ll wake up very early to photograph Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre under the golden light.
Photographic pills:
- Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre from Río de las Vueltas at sunset.
Day 2. Friday, March 29th - The Hidden Waterfall
7:00 am
Our sunrise shooting spot is located at Río de las Vueltas... the scene looks completely different compared to Sunset.
As the first rays of the Sun invade the scene, everything changes...
The Sun rises from right behind our backs painting the peaks of Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre in golden light.
Time to shoot!
Blue hour begins at 7:36 am, golden hour begins at 7:48 am, Sunrise is at 8:07 am and golden hour ends at 8:14 am.
9:30 am
Back at the hotel for a relaxing breakfast.
1:00 pm
After a good lunch in town (we need to take advantage of the nice restaurants when we have a chance!), we’ll meet the porters.
Today we’ll do a beautiful hike. So take what you need with you (camera gear) and leave the rest to the porters (if you decide to hire one). It’s better to save as much energy as possible.
They can carry up to 20 kg, which will really relieve our legs and back!
1:30 pm
Our hiking adventure begins. It’ll take us 1h 40min to get to our camping (Laguna Capri Campsite) and Sunset location high in the mountains (including the stops to take photos). The views up there are incredible.
Laguna Capri, also known as Laguna Pato, is a little lake that enjoys spectacular views of Fitz Roy and the peaks around it.
The hike difficulty is easy-moderate.
3:00 pm
We made it!
But wait! I know that you all want to immediately go shooting, but first, we need to set up the tents for the night.
Each one of us has his own tent. It’s easy to set up. But of course, Marco Grassi and Tyler Lekki are there to help you too.
4:30 pm
Let’s go scouting. We have a few shots planned for Sunset and for the thin Milky Way, but we need to fine tune our compositions.
There are lots of highlights here, the lake, Fitz Roy, the fall colors, the trees, the river (Río de la Cascada) and a beautiful waterfall (15 min easy hike).
5:30 pm
Everybody is ready for action. At the right shooting spot. At the right time. The Sun is going down behind the majestic Fitz Roy.
Water goes down the waterfall as we shoot long exposures to show its movement. Fitz Roy stands like a giant at the back, staring at us.
Golden hour begins at 7:00 pm, Sunset is at 7:43 pm, golden hour ends at 8:02 pm, and blue hour ends at 8:14 pm.
8:00 pm
Dinner at the camp.
The camping meals will be easy to prepare: dry food, snacks and coffee, lots of coffee (and tea)!
And to bed. Tomorrow there is another great Sunrise awaiting.
But for the brave ones, here you have a plan B.
10:00 pm
Nighttime begins at 9:29 pm...
The Moon (79%) rises at our backs at 9:11 pm... lighting the tip of Fitz Roy which captures a beautiful reddish color.
While we’re waiting for the thin Milky Way to get closer to our subject (Fitz Roy), we’ll capture a Star trails image including the prominent mountains in the frame under the powerful moonlight.
Also, it’s a great opportunity to practice and improve our astrophotography skills.
11:00 pm
The Milky Way is completely vertical. Its tail is perfectly located next to Fitz Roy.
Photographic pills:
- The Fitz Roy and the Cerro Torre from the Río de las Vueltas at Sunrise.
- The Laguna Capri, the Río de la Cascada and the waterfall at Sunset.
- Thin Milky Way with the Fitz Roy under Moonlight.
- Star Trails with Fitz Roy under Moonlight.
Day 3. Saturday, March 30th - The Dead Trees
6:40 am
It’s a 20 min hike to get to the other side of the river.
Light direction is favorable at Sunrise. The rays of the Sun lit the top of Fitz Roy while the bottom is still in the shadows.
There are many options here, the trees, the river, the waterfall... Time to have fun!
And who knows, we might be lucky and have a few cool clouds around the mountain peaks too.
Blue hour begins at 7:38 am, golden hour begins at 7:50 am, Sunrise is at 8:09 am and golden hour ends at 8:52 am.
9:30 am
Nice breakfast with lots of coffee (or tea) at the camp.
11:00 am
Time to pack up and hike 1h 30min (difficulty: easy) to our next camp: Poincenot Campsite.
Poincenot Campsite is much closer to Fitz Roy. You can feel in your skin that the peaks are getting taller and taller at each step you give.
12:30 pm
Time to set up the camp, lunch and rest a bit.
1:30 pm
And after lunch, free time.
3:30 pm
The area is not only packed with beautiful trees dressed in fall colors, but packed with dead trees too.
Both alive and dead, these trees give you a sense of place, they are shouting at you “hey, you’re in Patagonia, welcome!”.
Both are great compositional elements. They can be used as the main subject, or as a foreground element to play with the background mountain.
When the golden hour arrives, we’ll be at our planned shooting spot.
Golden hour begins at 6:58 pm, Sunset is at 7:41 pm, golden hour ends at 8:00 pm, and blue hour ends at 8:12 pm.
8:00 pm
Dinner and hot drinks.
9:30 pm
The Moon (71%) rises at 9:44 pm.
And when the Moon is rising, the camera captures a red glow on the peaks in front of us. But be aware! You can barely see it with naked eyes so make sure to be in position and start shooting.
Another option is to photograph Star Trails with Fitz Roy under Moonlight.
11:00 pm
Bed time!
Photographic pills:
- Fall colors, trees, river and waterfall with the Fitz Roy at Sunrise.
- Live and dead trees with the Fitz Roy at Sunset.
- Fitz Roy under Moonlight.
- Star Trails with Fitz Roy under Moonlight.
Day 4. Sunday, March 31st - Laguna de los Tres
5:30 am
We’re hiking up towards Laguna de los Tres and we’re going really slow, taking small steps.
It will take us about 1h 45min to get to la laguna. But the place is so unique... It's 100% worth the effort and the adventure.
The trail is pretty steep, and it can be icy. So take your headlamp out because you’re going to need it.
The Good news is that the Moon (68%) will be up, helping us see the path if the skies are clear.
Laguna de los Tres is a lagoon of different shades of blue located right at the foot of the mystical Mount Fitz Roy. Up there, you’re so close to the mountain peak that you can almost touch it with your hand.
As we’re going up you’ll understand why this is the most spectacular, emblematic and unforgettable trek in the area.
7:15 am
The Sunrise is amazing here. You can get the golden light on the peaks, reflections on the lagoon and even photograph the lagoon and Mount Fitz Roy from a higher point of view for a different composition.
Blue hour begins at 7:40 am, golden hour begins at 7:52 am, Sunrise is at 8:11 am and golden hour ends at 8:54 am.
9:30 am
Time to hike back to the camp where a delicious breakfast awaits.
After breakfast, we’ll enjoy a bit of free time. Take the opportunity to rest and recover your energy. But, of course, if the day is cloudy and moody... Well, the conditions will be great to keep shooting :)
3:00 pm
After lunch and a good siesta we’ll go back to the river, to explore the area and find cool compositions for Sunset.
There are lots of elements to play with: trees, colors, the river, the mountain peaks...
5:20 pm
The Sun is slowly setting behind Fitz Roy and we’ll be there, capturing the moment.
Golden hour begins at 6:56 pm, Sunset is at 7:39 pm, golden hour ends at 7:58 pm, and blue hour ends at 8:10 pm.
8:40 pm
Dinner and hot drinks!
9:45 pm
Once again... The Moon (65%) rises at 10:30 pm and Fitz Roy captures its red hue... it’s the Moon’s “golden” hour.
And we’ll be ready, at our planned shooting spots, to photograph how the Moon paints the peaks in red.
And of course, it’s also a good idea to practice your Star Trails photography.
Photographic pills:
- Sunrise at Laguna de los Tres.
- Midday shots along the hike.
- Sunset with the Fitz Roy.
- Fit Roy under Moonlight.
- Star Trails with the Fitz Roy under Moonlight.
Day 5. Monday, April 1st - The Hidden Lagoon
7:30 am
This is our last Sunrise in this area. Today we’ll camp in another spot. So take out your Sunrise plans you’ve saved with PhotoPills and go to capture them.
Our ingredients will be the fall colors, the golden light, the dead trees, the peaks.
Blue hour begins at 7:41 am, golden hour begins at 7:53 am, Sunrise is at 8:12 am and golden hour ends at 8:55 am.
9:20 am
Time to hike back to the camp, have breakfast and pack up everything. We’re moving!
2:30 pm
After a beautiful 3h 45min long but not hard hike across valleys and forests, mostly on flat terrain, we arrive at De Agostini Campsite by Laguna Torre... The hidden lagoon.
Laguna Torre is located among glaciers and mountains. Here, the stunning Cerro Torre dominates the scenery. Wind usually is strong here, moving the ice from the glaciers around the lagoon.
4:00 pm
Scouting time!
We have work to do. There are lots of possible shooting spots here. We’ll check a few and decide the Sunset composition we like the most.
5:00 pm
When the Sun is still up, shooting the Cerro Torre from the river is a great option. And when you’re ready, we’ll go to the lagoon to photograph the blue-green water, the ice and the mountain peaks at Sunset.
Sounds like we have a plan!
Golden hour begins at 6:54 pm, Sunset is at 7:37 pm, golden hour ends at 7:56 pm, and blue hour ends at 8:08 pm.
8:20 pm
Dinner and hot drinks at the camp.
9:30 pm
Nighttime begins at 9:23 pm...
There are a few optional photo opportunities if you wish to stay awake.
When the Moon (49%) rises at 11:32 it will light Cerro Torre.
Around 11:40 pm the thin tail of the Milky Way will be aligned with Cerro Torre under Moonlight.
And as always, photographing Star Trails is always a plan.
Photographic pills:
- Sunrise with Fitz Roy from the dead trees forest.
- Sunset with the Cerro Torre from the river and the Laguna Torre.
- Thin Milky Way with the Cerro Torre under Moonlight.
- Star Trails with the Cerro Torre under Moonlight.
Day 6. Tuesday, April 2nd - The Tower
7:30 am
The Sunrise by the lagoon is stunning. Here we’ve got the water, the ice, the glacier and the Cerro Torre as the main elements. All combined with the morning golden light. And maybe, if we’re lucky enough, there’ll be a few nice clouds in the sky too. Plan & Pray!
The spot is great for both a wide angle lens and a telephoto lens. Close up shots are great to create abstract images of the peaks, the trees and the fall colors.
Blue hour begins at 7:42 am, golden hour begins at 8:14 am, Sunrise is at 8:14 am and golden hour ends at 8:57 am.
9:30 am
After a 10min hike we’ll be back at the camp. Ready for breakfast!
10:30 am
Down time.
1:00 pm
Lunch at the camp and siesta (nap).
3:40 pm
We’re crossing a river using a zip line, looking for contrasts.
Didn’t I tell you this is not a honeymoon?
But no worries, it’s pretty easy and fun!
And we finally arrive at a great spot...
The mix of the tower of Cerro Torre, the lagoon and the ice is stunning.
7:10 pm
Today we’ll photograph Sunset by the lagoon. So, after crossing the river and a short hike we’ll place our tripods near the water.
The Laguna Torre is often windy... So you might need to hide behind a rock when the wind blows strong!
But being there, watching the waves crashing against the icebergs is a 100% memorable experience.
I’m sure you’ll get a few dramatic shots.
Golden hour begins at 6:52 pm, Sunset is at 7:35 pm, golden hour ends at 7:54 pm, and blue hour ends at 8:05 pm.
8:00 pm
Dinner and hot drinks.
9:00 pm
Again, there are a few optional shootings if you wish to stay awake.
Around 11:30 pm the tail of the Milky Way will be completely vertical. So you can photograph the thin part of the Milky Way with the Cerro Torre. The Moon will be below the horizon.
Star trails are another option!
And when the Moon (38%) rises at 12:47 am, Cerro Torre will shine under moonlight.
Photographic pills:
- Sunrise from the Laguna Torre.
- Afternoon shots by the river.
- Sunset from the Laguna Torre.
- Thin Milky Way with the Cerro Torre (no Moon).
- Star Trails with the Cerro Torre (no Moon).
- Cerre Torre under Moonlight.
Day 7. Wednesday, April 3rd - The Secret
I’ve been giving you lots of details of this amazing expedition to Patagonia (Chile & Argentina).
Maybe far too many...
But on April 3rd we’ll do something very special...
What will that be?
Well, you'll have to be there, with us, to figure it out :P
Day 8. Thursday, April 4th - Torres del Paine
7:00 am
Dawn greets the team with anticipation as the morning sun begins its ascent over the Argentine horizon. The day is marked with a sense of fresh beginnings, as the group set their sights on the Chilean side of Patagonia - the majestic Torres del Paine National Park.
With bellies full and spirits high, bags were loaded onto the bus, marking the official departure from El Chalten.
The road ahead stretched for several hours, punctuated by the beauty of the Patagonian plains, with the bus cutting through the landscape towards the Chilean border. The upcoming golden hour promised ethereal lighting conditions, perfect for the day's adventure.
11:40 am
A much-needed break at Estancia Esperanza allows the group to stretch the legs, have a quick lunch, and take in the surroundings of this beautiful area.
12:10 pm
The journey resumed, the group's sights set firmly on the Chilean border crossing at Cancha Carrera.
2:30 pm
A new chapter begins as the group entered Chile at Cerro Castillo, marking our official arrival in Torres del Paine territory.
4:30 pm
Check in at the beautiful Hotel Rio Serrano hotel.
5:00 pm
As the Moon (23%) begins to dip towards the horizon, we arrive at Salto Grande, one of the most iconic waterfalls located within the Torres del Paine National Park (height: 10 m, 33 feet).
A short but invigorating hike leads us to a unique location characterized by hauntingly beautiful dead trees. Their gnarled forms served as natural frames for the distant mountains, a powerful juxtaposition of life and decay in this rugged landscape.
6:30 pm
As the golden hour set in, we scramble to find the perfect shots, the warm hues of sunset painting the landscape in gold and amber.
Golden hour begins at 6:44 pm, Sunset is at 7:29 pm, golden hour ends at 7:49 pm, and blue hour ends at 8:02 pm.
9:00 pm
Well deserved dinner at the hotel.
10:00 pm
Nighttime begins at 9:21...
For those not quite ready to go to bed, an optional astro session outside the hotel awaits.
The night sky in Patagonia is known for its unparalleled clarity, with the Galactic Center's visibility promising breathtaking captures of the Milky Way.
12:00 am
Bed time.
Rest well my friends, today we’re sleeping in Chile.
Photographic pills:
- Peaks and dead trees at Salto Grande.
- Optional vertical Milky Way outside the hotel.
Day 9. Friday, April 5th - The Condors
4:20 am
We start our day early with breakfast to go. If the sky is clear, our next destination is Mirador Lago Nordenskjold.
By 5:25 am, we're set up at this viewpoint, providing us with a distinctive angle of Torres del Paine's iconic peaks.
Our aim?
To capture the Milky Way arch above Los Cuernos.
With the Milky Way high in the sky and a 15% moon behind us, it's the perfect setup to illuminate both the foreground and peaks. It's a challenging panorama but promises to be immensely rewarding.
6:40 pm
We head towards Laguna Amarga. By 7:10 am, our lenses are scouting for interesting foregrounds around the lake's shore. If conditions permit, we might even capture the perfect reflection of the Three Towers in the calm waters of Laguna Amarga. Both wide-angle shots and close-ups of the distant iconic peaks beckon.
Blue hour begins at 7:46 am, golden hour begins at 7:59 am, Sunrise is at 8:19 am and golden hour ends at 9:04 am.
10:30 am
After our morning session, we return to our hotel, offering a moment to breathe and reflect.
1:00 pm
Lunch at the hotel.
2:00 pm
Post processing class with Marco and Tyler.
Our appetites satiated with a 1:00 pm lunch at the hotel, we dive deep into a post-processing
3:30 pm
Siesta time (nap time).
4:30 pm
Excitement fills the air as we set off for the Condor Lookout trailhead.
6:00 pm
After hiking 1.1 km (3608 ft) with a 211m (692 ft) elevation gain, the beautiful trail culminates in a panoramic spectacle...
Lake Pehoe below and the vast mountain range on the horizon. And if luck graces us, the majestic flight of condors could be our bonus treat.
The perfect ingredients for a Sunset shot.
Golden hour begins at 6:42 pm, Sunset is at 7:27 pm, golden hour ends at 7:47 pm, and blue hour ends at 8:00 pm.
08:00 pm
After absorbing the sunset's last hues, our journey back to the carpark commences. A short drive later, we're back at our hotel, where a hearty dinner awaits.
9:30 pm
The Moon (10%) is below the horizon...
For those whose passion knows no bounds, there's an optional astro session starting around 9:40 pm outside the hotel.
The cosmic menu? A star trail looking north and the tail of the Milky Way poised above Paine Grande.
11:00 pm
Today, Torres del Paine unveiled its day-to-night treasures...
From gleaming lakes to towering peaks and potentially, the silent dance of condors, every frame was a testament to nature's grandeur.
As we drift into sleep or continue our nocturnal photo session, the beauty of this day remains etched in memory and on memory cards.
Photographic pills:
- Milky Way above los Cuerno at Mirador Lago Nordenskjold under Moonlight (15%).
- Sunrise at Laguna Amarga.
- Sunset and condors at Condor Lookout over Lake Pehoe.
- Optional Star Trails and Milky Way outside the hotel.
Day 10. Saturday, April 6th - The Puma Quest (Group A)
6:20 am
In the heart of the pristine wilderness, our group divides into three distinct teams today: A, B, and C.
Group A sets their sights on an extraordinary adventure: puma tracking.
You’ll spend the day hopefully photographing pumas under the guidance of a local expert and a PhotoPills master.
The allure of the elusive puma promises a day filled with intense excitement.
7:40 am
Groups B and C have a rendezvous at Sunrise with the stunning views at the Explora Hotel Lookout.
After a short and comfortable walk, the vastness of Lake Pehoe unveils before us. Nestled within it is a bay, almost deceptively appearing as a separate lake, sheltered from the wind and potentially offering tranquil reflections.
As blue and golden hours drape the landscape in ethereal light, our cameras hum with activity.
Blue hour begins at 7:49 am, golden hour begins at 8:02 am, Sunrise is at 8:22 am and golden hour ends at 9:07 am.
9:40 am
Breakfast time at the hotel for Group B and C.
10:30 am
Downtime.
Meanwhile group A keeps tracking pumas :)
Will they be lucky?
1:00 pm
Lunch at the hotel for Group B and C.
2:00 pm
Siesta time (nap time).
5:00 pm
Groups B and C set their compass towards Camping Pehoe.
The area around Camping Pehoe is a photographer's playground, offering multiple vantage points.
Options unfold: a trek to a hilltop, intriguing rock formations by the shore, or perhaps the wind-sheltered bay with potential reflections.
While the park's notorious wind might challenge the latter, the backdrop of Los Cuernos and Paine Grande ensures magnificent shots.
7:00 pm
Meanwhile, Group A begins their drive back from the adventure with the pumas, their spirits high with the day's wild encounters.
The sun dips below the horizon by 07:25 pm, on its way to the end of another golden hour. As blue hour wraps its azure veil around Torres del Paine, Groups B and C start their journey back to the hotel.
Golden hour begins at 6:39 pm, Sunset is at 7:25 pm, golden hour ends at 7:45 pm, and blue hour ends at 7:58 pm.
9:00 pm
Dinner together at the hotel.
10:00 pm
For the nocturnal souls among us, post-dinner at 09:45 pm, there's the siren call of the cosmos. An optional astro session offers the opportunity to capture a star trail, looking north, right outside the hotel.
The Moon (5%) is below the horizon.
11:00 pm
Another day in Torres del Paine, another montage of memories – from the wild gaze of a puma to the serene reflections on Lake Pehoe. As the night deepens, we either dive into dreams or chase stars, our hearts full and our cameras fuller.
Photographic pills:
- Full day of puma tracking (group A)
- Sunrise at Lake Pehoe (group B and C).
- Sunset at Lake Pehoe (group B and C).
- Optional Star Trails and Milky Way outside the hotel.
Day 11. Sunday, April 7th - The Puma Quest (Group B)
6:20 am
Group B starts the puma tracking adventure :)
One full day of photographing pumas awaits!
7:40 am
After a scenic drive, Groups A and C are met with a short hike that takes us to a breathtaking location near the shore, specifically the west point on the island of Hosteria Pehoe.
The charm of this site lies in its exposure: it's smack in the middle of the lake, making it susceptible to the whims of the elements.
On windy days, waves dance and crash against the shore, while the absence of waves draws attention to the intricate patterns on rocks and the verdant vegetation.
The luminous progression of blue to golden hour serves as the perfect backdrop. As the sun ascends the horizon, the world is awash in hues of gold, a spectacle not to be missed.
Blue hour begins at 7:51 am, golden hour begins at 8:03 am, Sunrise is at 8:23 am and golden hour ends at 9:09 am.
9:40 am
With a multitude of frames captured, groups A and C make their way back to the hotel, and breakfast becomes a time of sharing stories and reviewing shots.
10:30 am
Downtime.
Meanwhile group B keeps photographing pumas (I hope!) :)
1:00 pm
Lunch at the hotel for Group A and C.
2:00 pm
Siesta time (nap time).
5:00 pm
Groups A and C set out once again, this time towards the Explora Hotel.
This site promises yet another visual Sunset delight.
7:00 pm
A brief hike post-arrival leads us to a lookout that offers a panorama of Lake Pehoe and its captivating bay.
With the landscape bathed in the soft glow of the golden hour, it's another chance for mesmerizing captures.
Elsewhere, Group B wraps up their Puma day and starts their drive back.
Golden hour begins at 6:37 pm, Sunset is at 7:25 pm, golden hour ends at 7:43 pm, and blue hour ends at 7:56 pm.
9:00 pm
Dinner together at the hotel.
10:00 pm
For those who find the night sky irresistible, there's an optional astro session right outside the hotel. With clear skies, it's a chance to capture the ethereal beauty of star trails.
The Moon (1%) is below the horizon.
11:00 pm
As night deepens and Torres del Paine cloaks itself in darkness, one can either give in to the call of dreams or answer the whispers of the stars above. Another day concludes, leaving behind a trail of unforgettable memories.
Photographic pills:
- Full day of puma tracking (group B)
- Sunrise at Hosteria Pehoe (group A and C).
- Sunset at Lake Pehoe (group A and C).
- Optional Star Trails and Milky Way outside the hotel.
Day 12. Monday, April 8th - The Puma Quest (Group C)
6:20 am
Group C starts the puma tracking quest:)
Hopefully, a full day of photographing pumas awaits!
7:40 am
The morning sun is yet to paint the skyline, and Groups A & B gear up for a day of capturing the mesmerizing beauty of Camping Pehoe.
The drive is a short journey, filled with anticipation. The allure of Camping Pehoe is well known. From its vast expanse to the small islands that dot it, every frame promises to be a masterpiece.
Upon arriving at Camping Pehoe, a brief walk brings us to a prime location. The description had set their expectations high, and the reality doesn't disappoint.
The natural rock formations, trees standing as silent sentinels, and that elusive bay which might bless them with a reflection, make for an exciting shoot.
As the first light of day emerges, we are in prime position. The sky is a canvas of colors during the Blue and Golden Hours, enhancing the allure of their subjects.
Blue hour begins at 7:52 am, golden hour begins at 8:05 am, Sunrise is at 8:25 am and golden hour ends at 9:11 am.
9:40 am
Post the euphoria of the morning shoot, Groups A & B make their way back to the hotel where breakfast awaits.
The brief hike back to the carpark is filled with chatter, sharing experiences, and reviewing some of the captures.
10:30 am
Downtime.
Meanwhile group C keeps photographing pumas (I hope!) :)
1:00 pm
Lunch at the hotel for Group A and B.
2:00 pm
Siesta time (nap time).
5:00 pm
Groups A and B are back on the road, this time headed to Hosteria Pehoe. Known for its raw beauty, especially with the waves crashing against the shore, the location promises another round of stunning shots.
7:00 pm
The setting sun casts a golden hue, marking the Golden Hour, and the groups are ready with their cameras.
As night begins to fall, they pack up, memories etched in their cameras and hearts.
Elsewhere, Group C wraps up their Puma day and starts their drive back.
Golden hour begins at 6:35 pm, Sunset is at 7:20 pm, golden hour ends at 7:41 pm, and blue hour ends at 7:53 pm.
9:00 pm
Dinner together at the hotel.
10:00 pm
The clear Torres del Paine skies offer a celestial spectacle. With options to capture star trails and the Milky Way tail above Paine Grande, the astral session promises a fitting end to a day filled with nature's wonders.
The Moon (0%) is below the horizon.
11:00 pm
As night deepens and Torres del Paine cloaks itself in darkness, one can either give in to the call of dreams or answer the whispers of the stars above. Another day concludes, leaving behind a trail of unforgettable memories.
Photographic pills:
- Full day of puma tracking (group C)
- Sunrise at Camping Pehoe (group A and B).
- Sunset at Lake Pehoe (group A and B).
- Optional Star Trails and Milky Way outside the hotel.
Day 13. Tuesday, April 9th - “Los Cuernos” and The Guanacos
A day before the curtain falls on the expedition, everyone is up and about early. We fuel up with an early breakfast, reminiscing about the experiences of the past days.
07:00 am
Hike to Mirador Cuernos starts. The promise of a closer view of Los Cuernos, combined with the natural wonders along the way, motivates every step.
07:45 am
Reaching the end of the trail, the group is presented with an unadulterated view of Los Cuernos.
The surrounding flora, fauna (the always amazing guanacos), and the elevated view of Lake Nordenskjold only accentuate the experience. As the blue hour approaches, we gear up.
The changing hues of the sky cast a magical glow on the surroundings. The sun rises, bathing Los Cuernos in a soft, golden light.
Blue hour begins at 7:54 am, golden hour begins at 8:06 am, Sunrise is at 8:27 am and golden hour ends at 9:12 am.
09:50 am
The journey continues, this time toward the Hotel Rio Serrano. The landscapes that zip by are a constant reminder of the trip's beauty.
11:30 am
Brief halt at Rio Serrano is followed by another drive to El Calafate Hotel. The shift in terrains marks the nearing end of this expedition.
1:00 pm
Lunch at Cerro Castillo. We enjoy our meal, before marking our exit from Chile.
An intrinsic part of the journey is the border crossing from Chile into Argentina. The process might be bureaucratic, but it adds to the trip's adventure.
4:30 pm
Post a brief halt at Esperanza for essentials, the final leg of the journey for the day begins - the drive to El Calafate.
6:40 pm
On arrival, the tiredness is evident but overshadowed by the exhilaration of the journey. The check-in is smooth, with everyone eager for the night’s event.
8:30 pm
The final dinner at Tablita is more than just a meal; it's a culmination of days of shared experiences, learning, and camaraderie.
The air is thick with gratitude, nostalgia, and the bittersweet realization of the trip's end. We toasts to our unforgettable journey and the hope of many more adventures to come.
10:00 pm
This is our last night in Patagonia.
Tomorrow we go home.
Photographic pills:
- Blue hour, golden hour and Sunrise at Los Cuernos.
Day 14. Wednesday, April 10th - The Farewell
8:00 am
As dawn breaks over El Calafate, we gather for one last meal together.
The breakfast area is filled with a mix of emotions - joy from the memories created, sadness at the impending goodbyes, and the calm contentment of a journey well-lived.
The breakfast table becomes a space for exchanging contact details, sharing last-minute photos, and recounting the most cherished memories from the expedition.
10:00 am
Suitcases packed with not just clothes but memories, souvenirs, and stories are loaded.
Check-out from the hotel is not just from a physical space but a symbolic departure from a transformative experience.
Now that the expedition has ended... you’re free to stay in Patagonia (it’s a good idea) or to go to the airport... home awaits!
2:00 pm
As planes take to the sky, leaving behind the breathtaking vistas of Patagonia that spans both Argentina and Chile, every one of us carries not just photos but life-changing experiences.
The jagged peaks of Los Cuernos, the serene beauty of Lake Nordenskjold, the majestic pumas, the omnipresent Fitz Roy, the hidden Cerro Torre... and the winds that whispered tales of ancient times - all have left an indelible mark on our souls.
This was not just another trip. It was an immersion, a deep dive into the heart of Patagonia, enriched by every sunrise chased and every sunset that painted the sky. The shared challenges, the collective awe at nature’s wonders, and the camaraderie formed have created bonds that go beyond this expedition.
In the words of an old traveler's saying, "You will never be completely at home again because part of your heart will always be elsewhere." For many, a part of our hearts will forever belong to Patagonia.
To every PhotoPillers: May the winds of Patagonia forever echo in your heart, reminding you of this magical journey. Until we meet again, keep chasing the light and capturing the wonders of our beautiful world.
Safe travels and adiós, dear friends.
Book now and save €500 (only 1 spot left)
To book your spot to join the expedition to Patagonia (Chile and Argentina) at a reduced price of €7,500 (the official price is €8,000), a €2,000 deposit is required by Sunday October 22nd.
Payment in full is required by Sunday December 17th.
Please, finalize your booking as soon as possible. The seats are sold on a first come, first served basis.
What’s included in the price
- PhotoPills Welcome pack.
- An 14-day expedition photographing Patagonia (Chile and Argentina) with the fall colors, the golden light, the Milky Way and the Pumas.
- 14 days of learning, fun and adventure with Marco Grassi, Tyler Lekki (PhotoPills Masters) and the funniest geek community – the PhotoPillers.
- Full immersion in the PhotoPills method (Imagine.Plan.Shoot.!).
- 8 nights of lodging, sharing a double room with another PhotoPiller (Optional €1,300 single room supplement upon availability).
- 5 nights of camping.
- All activities on the Secret day.
- National Park entry fees and special accesses.
- Breakfast everyday.
- Lunch and dinner when camping.
- Ground transportation during the expedition.
What’s not included
- Flights to El Calafate, Argentina.
- Airport transfers.
- Medical and travel insurance coverage (strongly recommended).
- Lunch & dinner while not camping.
- Sleeping bag and mattress (bring your own or rent them in el Chalten)
- Tent. We can provide you with a tent throughout the trip, but please let us know well in advance as tents are limited and provided on a first come first serve basis. Tents can also be rented in El Chalten.
- Porters to help you with weight, if needed.
- Snacks, alcohol and beverages.
- Visa.
- Anything not mentioned in the “included” list.
Do you want an example of how huge this will be?
This is a glimpse to what happened in the 2016 PhotoPills Expedition to Iceland. We had so many adventures and so much fun... We can’t wait for Patagonia (Chile & Argentina)!
But you don’t have to take our word for granted. Here’s what some PhotoPillers say about the PhotoPills adventures:
“I went to Iceland expecting to have the opportunity to photograph the marvelous landscape and master nightscapes. What I encountered was so much more – 14 kindred souls from across the globe who share a passion for photography. Together we expanded our creative boundaries, learned from one another and had an insane amount of fun in the process. I am confident that everyone came away from the experience a better photographer.”
“From the very moment the guys from PhotoPills announced the expedition to Iceland... I didn’t think it twice! I was using PhotoPills but not at its full capacity, so I had no better chance to learn from the creators of this amazing app. The experience was even more amazing than anything I could have imagined. In Iceland, I discovered a bunch of folks as crazy about photography as I am. I had a blast!
Photography is a continuous learning process, you always find something new that motivates you to improve. And this adventure made me improve more than I could imagine.”
"The PhotoPills guys know how to create a fantastic experience. They bring an infectiously fun energy and are always willing to drop some handy photography knowledge on you that you will take with you. You take their trip and you'll for sure have a good time, get some amazing pics and leave a better photographer."
“During my experience in Iceland I lived wonderful moments and had surprises that were beyond the expected. It completely exceeded my initial expectations! Sharing knowledge, experiences and ways of working and living photography with such a great group has been one of the most enriching life experiences I have ever had.
Who he said that learning and knowledge sharing can not be wonderfully fun?”
“I can't say enough about what a fantastic time I had during the PhotoPills Iceland photo tour! The guys from PhotoPills and Donal Boyd were so knowledgeable, accommodating, and especially lots of fun. Never a dull moment – nonstop action and shooting of amazing landscapes for 10 days. I came away with enough images and memories to last a lifetime!”
FAQs
What’s the temperature in Patagonia in April?
Weather in fall can be cold (-5ºC to 15ºC, 23ºF to 59ºF), rainy and cloudy. So bring the proper waterproof gear (including jacket, pants, boots), Gore-Tex is recommended.
How many nights will we be spending camping?
We’ll be camping for 5 consecutive nights. This will allow us to sleep very close to the mountains and get the best possible shots.
Do I need to bring my own camping gear?
We recommend you to bring your own tent, mattress and sleeping bag. You can also rent the camping gear you need at El Chaltén.
We can provide you with a tent throughout the trip, but please let us know well in advance as tents are limited and provided on a first come first serve basis.
Do I have to carry all my gear when camping?
You can either choose to carry all your gear (extra clothes, toiletries, camera gear, camping gear…) or you can hire a porter who can carry up to 20 kg per day for approx €200/day. If you wish, you can also split the kilos and cost with another PhotoPiller.
Can I leave some of the gear I don’t need while camping in the village?
Yes, you can leave some of your stuff (such as laptop, extra clothes, backup camera body...) in the village, in a safe storage room and pick them up later on.
What clothes should I bring?
We recommend you to have warm base layers, fleeces and down jacket as well as the appropriate water resistant clothes and shoes during the whole trip, but especially during the camping part.
Also, we’ll provide each participant with a detailed kit list before the beginning of the trip.
Do the campsites have showers?
No, there are no showers or other facilities except for compost toilets. We recommend you to bring dry shampoo and dry shower gel as well as wet wipes.
Do I need to carry enough water for the camping days?
No, all you need is a water bottle as we’ll be refilling our bottles at streams and lakes. Each campsite is located next to the water so you’ll be able to refill any time you want. However, we strongly suggest you have a filtered water bottle or tablets to purify the water in your bottle.
What camera gear do you suggest?
When hiking, we always recommend to carry only one camera body, a wide angle (such as 14-24mm) and a mid range telephoto (such as 70-200mm). If you wish to bring more camera gear (lenses, backup camera body...) on this trip, you can always leave everything in the storage when we are out camping and pick them up when we’re back and stay in hotels.
Is travel insurance included in the price of the expedition?
No. Participants are suggested to purchase national or international medical and travel insurance coverage.
Also, we recommend you to choose a travel insurance that:
- Covers trip cancellation costs.
- Covers Covid-19 health, travel and cancellation costs.
What is the cancellation policy?
We hope you don’t need to cancel your spot, but if a situation arises where you don’t have a choice, our cancellation policy is the following.
If you cancel and the expedition is otherwise filled, we'll refund you the full booking fee you have paid, minus a €300 administrative fee.
If you cancel and the expedition doesn’t fill, then you’ll be refunded according to the following schedule, based on the full fee of the expedition:
- 61 days or more before the expedition: 100% refund, minus the deposit payment and the non-refundable costs that are withheld by our travel partners.
- 60 days or less before the expedition: No refunds will be given.
Refunds will be paid using the same original method of payment.
Credits: All images by Marco Grassi, Tyler Lekki, Felix Inden and Victor Vega.
