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Good physical condition
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Prior mountaineering experience (not required but recommended)
Argentine Patagonia has unique rock formations and flora, very different from the rest of South America. The city of Bariloche, known for its ski slopes and snow in winter, is the gateway to the region that stretches to the southern tip of the continent. In summer, the ideal time for this route, the landscape and climate change completely, making this trek enjoyable and less technical due to the lack of icy stretches. The four refuges that give the crossing its name are Frey, San Martín, Manfredo and Lopez, the main ones in the Nahuel Huapi National Park.
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Physics: average
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Technique (climbing): non-existent
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February 6th to 13th, 2027 (Carnival week)
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customized dates on demand
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starting from US$4,300 per person
DAY 0 (prior to the expedition)
Arrival in Bariloche. Transfer from the airport to the hotel not included. Meals not included. Accommodation included (optional).
DAY 1: Laguna Amarga – Serón
We begin the trek with registration at the park entrance. The first day is a warm-up hike through the Patagonian steppe, along the Paine River. The terrain is predominantly flat, crossing lenga forests and open areas with views of Cerro Paine. Breakfast and dinner are included. Accommodation in a tent or bed in a refuge.
Accumulated elevation gain : 250 m
Distance : 14 km
Estimated Time : 4-5 hours
DAY 2: Serón – Dickson
The route skirts Lake Paine, offering the first views of the north face of the massif. We will face the "Pass of the Winds," where gusts can be intense. The destination is one of the most isolated and beautiful camps in the world, situated on a peninsula on the edge of Laguna Dickson, surrounded by glaciers and snow-capped peaks. Breakfast and dinner are included. This is the only stay with mandatory overnight camping.
Accumulated elevation gain : 400 m
Distance : 18 km
Estimated Time : 6-7 hours
DAY 3: Dickson – Los Perros
A day of immersion in dense, untouched forests. We will hike up the Rio de los Perros valley. Before reaching the campsite, we will pass by the Perros Glacier, where blocks of ice float in a lagoon of grey water beneath a granite wall. This is a shorter section, aimed at resting before the challenge of the following day. Breakfast and dinner included. Accommodation in a tent or bed in a refuge.
Accumulated elevation : 350 m
Distance : 12 km
Estimated Time : 4-5 hours
DAY 4: Los Perros – Paso John Gardner – Refúgio Gray
The crucial day of the expedition. We will wake up at dawn for the technical climb to the highest point of the circuit (1,200m above sea level). Crossing the Gardner Pass is the biggest physical challenge, often with snow and strong winds. From the top, the reward is the monumental view of the Southern Ice Field and the Grey Glacier. The descent is steep through forests to the refuge. Breakfast and dinner included. Accommodation in a tent or bed in a refuge.
Accumulated elevation gain : 900 m
Distance : 15 km
Estimated Time : 10 AM - 12 PM
DAY 5: Grey – Paine Grande Refuge
In the morning we will explore the viewpoints of Grey Glacier, crossing the famous suspension bridges over gorges. The path follows the shores of Grey Lake with constant views of the ice wall. We will arrive at the Paine Grande sector, the logistical heart of the park, on the shores of Pehoé Lake. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included. Accommodation in a tent or bed in a refuge.
Accumulated elevation gain : 250 m
Distance : 11 km
Estimated Time : 4-5 hours
DAY 6: Paine Grande – Valle del Francés – Cuernos/Francés
We enter the central part of the massif. We will ascend the Valle del Francés to the Mirador Britándica. It is a natural amphitheater surrounded by granite spires and the Glaciar Francés, where it is common to see and hear small ice avalanches. We return to the valley and continue to the Cuernos sector, skirting Lake Nordenskjöld. Breakfast and dinner included. Accommodation in a tent or bed in a refuge.
Accumulated elevation gain : 800 m
Distance : 20 km
Estimated Time : 8 - 10 hours
DAY 7: Los Cuernos – Chileno / Las Torres
A transitional day skirting the base of Admiral Nieto. The trail offers breathtaking views of the turquoise blue of Lake Nordenskjöld on one side and the granite walls on the other. We will ascend the Ascencio Valley to spend the night closer to the base of the Towers, saving our energy for the final ascent. Breakfast and dinner included. Accommodation in a tent or bed in a mountain refuge.
Accumulated elevation gain : 450 m
Distance : 15 km
Estimated Time : 6-7 hours
DAY 8: Attack on Base de las Torres – Laguna Amarga - Puerto Natales
We begin the final ascent while it's still dark to try and see the sunrise over the granite towers. The last hour is a technical climb through a moraine (field of large stones). After admiring the park's postcard-perfect view, we'll begin the long final descent to the welcome center to take the departure transport back to the village of Puerto Natales. Breakfast included, hotel accommodation.
Accumulated elevation gain : 600 m
Distance : 18 km (total for the day)
Estimated Time : 7 - 9 hours
DAY 9: Puerto Natales - Punta Arenas
Transfer back to Punta Arenas for the return trip to the country of origin.
INCLUDED
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Transfer in/out to the mountains from Punta Arenas, Chile.
- Stay in a double room DAY 0 in Punta Arenas, Chile
- Camping stay during trekking
- 1 WFA first aid guide in Portuguese, English, and Spanish for every 5 people.
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Breakfast days 1 to 9
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Dinner on days 1 to 8 (drinks not included)
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All necessary safety equipment, including personal protective equipment.
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Assistance with purchasing equipment before the trip.
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First aid kit for collective use.
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1 Captain Jack snack
NOT INCLUDED
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Transportation to Punta Arenas, Chile (round trip)
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Airport - hotel - airport transfer
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Trail snacks are available in the towns of Punta Arenas and Puerto Natales, and at additional refuges not included in the package.
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All camping equipment, including tents (but with the option to rent).
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Travel insurance
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Rescue insurance
CLOTHING
-
Polyamide T-shirt - 2 to 3 units
To be used while hiking. Recommended with long sleeves for extra protection against solar radiation and scratches from branches.
-
Fleece blouse 200 - 1 unit
Fleece is a type of fabric with high heating power, low weight and good compression. If you want to invest in a material that is even lighter and more compressible but much more expensive, choose goose down jackets. But be careful! There are several types of down jackets, and many are NOT SUITABLE FOR OUTDOOR SPORTS. For more information, contact our team. If you DO NOT want to invest, you can replace it with a regular sweatshirt, but it is highly NOT recommended because it is heavier, bulky and dries slowly if it gets wet.
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Fleece 400 shirt - 1 unit
It will only be used when entering the park, when temperatures can drop to -6ºC in the height of winter.
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Anorak - 1 unit
This is the most important item in your backpack. It can literally save your life, as it will protect you from hypothermia. It must have a hood. It must be water-resistant and preferably breathable, that is, it allows your sweat to escape without letting rainwater in. NOT RECOMMENDED but can be replaced by a regular raincoat.
-
Hiking pants - 1 or 2 units
-
Trekking boots - 1 unit
Ideally, they should be specific for mountaineering, with a good sole (ideally Vibram®), high shaft, water-resistant and preferably with a breathable GoreTex® membrane. Some people do the trail with regular sneakers, but THIS IS NOT RECOMMENDED.
-
Thin liner socks - 2 to 3 units
Opt for technical socks, specifically for mountaineering. They should have high breathability, which helps to keep your feet in contact with moisture from sweat as little as possible, one of the 3 factors that cause blisters.
-
Thick socks - 1 unit
To be used only when camping. Choose models made of merino wool.
-
Beanie - 1 unit
Opt for fleece models.
-
Bandana / expedition cap / hat - 1 unit
Opt for a bandana because it is much more versatile to withstand extreme environmental conditions.
-
Sunglasses - 1 unit
An essential item for a more comfortable trip. Radiation at altitude is greater than at sea level, so protect yourself!
-
Thin liner glove - 1 unit
Opt for those made of polyester.
-
Medium glove - 1 unit
Opt for models that are windproof.
-
Crocks or flip-flops - 1 pair
For use at camp.
ACCESSORIES
-
50 to 60L backpack - 1 unit
Must have a waist strap. Choose models that can be adapted for camelbacks.
-
Backpack raincoat - 1 unit
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Headlamp - 1 unit
Having the looser ones, in addition to being more comfortable, is a safety issue if you have to go through a more technical section with little light. On some routes, we make a short climb to the summit in the late afternoon to catch a glimpse of the sunset, and the descent ends up being at night. If you insist on not investing in this item, you can even replace it with a cell phone flashlight, but IT IS NOT RECOMMENDED.
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Set of spare batteries - 1 unit
Opt for lithium ones, which are more resistant to low temperatures.
-
Trekking poles (optional) - 1 pair
It says "optional" because many people take a while to get used to using them. The benefit is tremendous: it reduces the impact on your knees by up to 30%. If you use them, avoid those with screw or automatic locks. They are less resistant.
-
3L water tank with hose - 1 unit
Important item because dehydration at altitude increases the chance of altitude sickness (severe headaches and nausea, for example). This type of system prevents you from having to "take off and put on" your backpack, but it can even be replaced with plastic bottles.
-
1L waterproof bag (optional) - 1 unit
To protect/organize small items and electronics.
-
8L waterproof bag (optional) - 1 unit
To protect/organize clothes.
CAMPING / REFUGE
-
Tent - 1 unit
For one or two people weighing less than 2.5 kg. Only necessary if you choose the "camping" option for your stay from days 1 to 4. Available for rent.
-
0ºC sleeping bag (comfort) - 1 unit
The "limit" temperatures indicated by all manufacturers are very relative from person to person. The ideal is to always consider only the "comfort temperature". If this is similar to the external temperature of the environment, you will be able to sleep comfortably just wearing the second skin. Available for rent.
-
Insulating mattress - 1 unit
Preferably choose inflatable or closed-cell models. Only necessary if you choose the "camping" option for your stay from days 1 to 4. We have them available for rent.
-
Pillow (optional) - 1 unit
Use those specifically designed for camping, which are smaller and lighter than household ones. To avoid this extra weight, you can replace them with a blouse.
PERSONAL HYGIENE
-
Sunscreen SPF 50 or higher
Personal remedies.
-
Deodorant
CLOTHING
-
Polyamide T-shirt - 2 to 3 units
To be used while hiking. Recommended with long sleeves for extra protection against solar radiation and scratches from branches.
-
Fleece blouse 200 - 1 unit
Fleece is a type of fabric with high heating power, low weight and good compression. If you want to invest in a material that is even lighter and more compressible but much more expensive, choose goose down jackets. But be careful! There are several types of down jackets, and many are NOT SUITABLE FOR OUTDOOR SPORTS. For more information, contact our team. If you DO NOT want to invest, you can replace it with a regular sweatshirt, but it is highly NOT recommended because it is heavier, bulky and dries slowly if it gets wet.
-
Fleece 400 shirt - 1 unit
It will only be used when entering the park, when temperatures can drop to -6ºC in the height of winter.
-
Anorak - 1 unit
This is the most important item in your backpack. It can literally save your life, as it will protect you from hypothermia. It must have a hood. It must be water-resistant and preferably breathable, that is, it allows your sweat to escape without letting rainwater in. NOT RECOMMENDED but can be replaced by a regular raincoat.
-
Hiking pants - 1 or 2 units
-
Trekking boots - 1 unit
Ideally, they should be specific for mountaineering, with a good sole (ideally Vibram®), high shaft, water-resistant and preferably with a breathable GoreTex® membrane. Some people do the trail with regular sneakers, but THIS IS NOT RECOMMENDED.
-
Thin liner socks - 2 to 3 units
Opt for technical socks, specifically for mountaineering. They should have high breathability, which helps to keep your feet in contact with moisture from sweat as little as possible, one of the 3 factors that cause blisters.
-
Thick socks - 1 unit
To be used only when camping. Choose models made of merino wool.
-
Beanie - 1 unit
Opt for fleece models.
-
Bandana / expedition cap / hat - 1 unit
Opt for a bandana because it is much more versatile to withstand extreme environmental conditions.
-
Sunglasses - 1 unit
An essential item for a more comfortable trip. Radiation at altitude is greater than at sea level, so protect yourself!
-
Thin liner glove - 1 unit
Opt for those made of polyester.
-
Medium glove - 1 unit
Opt for models that are windproof.
-
Crocks or flip-flops - 1 pair
For use at camp.
ACCESSORIES
-
50 to 60L backpack - 1 unit
Must have a waist strap. Choose models that can be adapted for camelbacks.
-
Backpack raincoat - 1 unit
-
Headlamp - 1 unit
Having the looser ones, in addition to being more comfortable, is a safety issue if you have to go through a more technical section with little light. On some routes, we make a short climb to the summit in the late afternoon to catch a glimpse of the sunset, and the descent ends up being at night. If you insist on not investing in this item, you can even replace it with a cell phone flashlight, but IT IS NOT RECOMMENDED.
-
Set of spare batteries - 1 unit
Opt for lithium ones, which are more resistant to low temperatures.
-
Trekking poles (optional) - 1 pair
It says "optional" because many people take a while to get used to using them. The benefit is tremendous: it reduces the impact on your knees by up to 30%. If you use them, avoid those with screw or automatic locks. They are less resistant.
-
3L water tank with hose - 1 unit
Important item because dehydration at altitude increases the chance of altitude sickness (severe headaches and nausea, for example). This type of system prevents you from having to "take off and put on" your backpack, but it can even be replaced with plastic bottles.
-
1L waterproof bag (optional) - 1 unit
To protect/organize small items and electronics.
-
8L waterproof bag (optional) - 1 unit
To protect/organize clothes.
CAMPING / REFUGE
-
Tent - 1 unit
For one or two people weighing less than 2.5 kg. Only necessary if you choose the "camping" option for your stay from days 1 to 4. Available for rent.
-
0ºC sleeping bag (comfort) - 1 unit
The "limit" temperatures indicated by all manufacturers are very relative from person to person. The ideal is to always consider only the "comfort temperature". If this is similar to the external temperature of the environment, you will be able to sleep comfortably just wearing the second skin. Available for rent.
-
Insulating mattress - 1 unit
Preferably choose inflatable or closed-cell models. Only necessary if you choose the "camping" option for your stay from days 1 to 4. We have them available for rent.
-
Pillow (optional) - 1 unit
Use those specifically designed for camping, which are smaller and lighter than household ones. To avoid this extra weight, you can replace them with a blouse.
PERSONAL HYGIENE
-
Sunscreen SPF 50 or higher
Personal remedies.
-
Deodorant
CLOTHING
-
Polyamide T-shirt - 2 to 3 units
To be used while hiking. Recommended with long sleeves for extra protection against solar radiation and scratches from branches.
-
Fleece blouse 200 - 1 unit
Fleece is a type of fabric with high heating power, low weight and good compression. If you want to invest in a material that is even lighter and more compressible but much more expensive, choose goose down jackets. But be careful! There are several types of down jackets, and many are NOT SUITABLE FOR OUTDOOR SPORTS. For more information, contact our team. If you DO NOT want to invest, you can replace it with a regular sweatshirt, but it is highly NOT recommended because it is heavier, bulky and dries slowly if it gets wet.
-
Fleece 400 shirt - 1 unit
It will only be used when entering the park, when temperatures can drop to -6ºC in the height of winter.
-
Anorak - 1 unit
This is the most important item in your backpack. It can literally save your life, as it will protect you from hypothermia. It must have a hood. It must be water-resistant and preferably breathable, that is, it allows your sweat to escape without letting rainwater in. NOT RECOMMENDED but can be replaced by a regular raincoat.
-
Hiking pants - 1 or 2 units
-
Trekking boots - 1 unit
Ideally, they should be specific for mountaineering, with a good sole (ideally Vibram®), high shaft, water-resistant and preferably with a breathable GoreTex® membrane. Some people do the trail with regular sneakers, but THIS IS NOT RECOMMENDED.
-
Thin liner socks - 2 to 3 units
Opt for technical socks, specifically for mountaineering. They should have high breathability, which helps to keep your feet in contact with moisture from sweat as little as possible, one of the 3 factors that cause blisters.
-
Thick socks - 1 unit
To be used only when camping. Choose models made of merino wool.
-
Beanie - 1 unit
Opt for fleece models.
-
Bandana / expedition cap / hat - 1 unit
Opt for a bandana because it is much more versatile to withstand extreme environmental conditions.
-
Sunglasses - 1 unit
An essential item for a more comfortable trip. Radiation at altitude is greater than at sea level, so protect yourself!
-
Thin liner glove - 1 unit
Opt for those made of polyester.
-
Medium glove - 1 unit
Opt for models that are windproof.
-
Crocks or flip-flops - 1 pair
For use at camp.
ACCESSORIES
-
50 to 60L backpack - 1 unit
Must have a waist strap. Choose models that can be adapted for camelbacks.
-
Backpack raincoat - 1 unit
-
Headlamp - 1 unit
Having the looser ones, in addition to being more comfortable, is a safety issue if you have to go through a more technical section with little light. On some routes, we make a short climb to the summit in the late afternoon to catch a glimpse of the sunset, and the descent ends up being at night. If you insist on not investing in this item, you can even replace it with a cell phone flashlight, but IT IS NOT RECOMMENDED.
-
Set of spare batteries - 1 unit
Opt for lithium ones, which are more resistant to low temperatures.
-
Trekking poles (optional) - 1 pair
It says "optional" because many people take a while to get used to using them. The benefit is tremendous: it reduces the impact on your knees by up to 30%. If you use them, avoid those with screw or automatic locks. They are less resistant.
-
3L water tank with hose - 1 unit
Important item because dehydration at altitude increases the chance of altitude sickness (severe headaches and nausea, for example). This type of system prevents you from having to "take off and put on" your backpack, but it can even be replaced with plastic bottles.
-
1L waterproof bag (optional) - 1 unit
To protect/organize small items and electronics.
-
8L waterproof bag (optional) - 1 unit
To protect/organize clothes.
CAMPING / REFUGE
-
Tent - 1 unit
For one or two people weighing less than 2.5 kg. Only necessary if you choose the "camping" option for your stay from days 1 to 4. Available for rent.
-
0ºC sleeping bag (comfort) - 1 unit
The "limit" temperatures indicated by all manufacturers are very relative from person to person. The ideal is to always consider only the "comfort temperature". If this is similar to the external temperature of the environment, you will be able to sleep comfortably just wearing the second skin. Available for rent.
-
Insulating mattress - 1 unit
Preferably choose inflatable or closed-cell models. Only necessary if you choose the "camping" option for your stay from days 1 to 4. We have them available for rent.
-
Pillow (optional) - 1 unit
Use those specifically designed for camping, which are smaller and lighter than household ones. To avoid this extra weight, you can replace them with a blouse.
PERSONAL HYGIENE
-
Sunscreen SPF 50 or higher
Personal remedies.
-
Deodorant
CLOTHING
-
Polyamide T-shirt - 2 to 3 units
To be used while hiking. Recommended with long sleeves for extra protection against solar radiation and scratches from branches.
-
Fleece blouse 200 - 1 unit
Fleece is a type of fabric with high heating power, low weight and good compression. If you want to invest in a material that is even lighter and more compressible but much more expensive, choose goose down jackets. But be careful! There are several types of down jackets, and many are NOT SUITABLE FOR OUTDOOR SPORTS. For more information, contact our team. If you DO NOT want to invest, you can replace it with a regular sweatshirt, but it is highly NOT recommended because it is heavier, bulky and dries slowly if it gets wet.
-
Fleece 400 shirt - 1 unit
It will only be used when entering the park, when temperatures can drop to -6ºC in the height of winter.
-
Anorak - 1 unit
This is the most important item in your backpack. It can literally save your life, as it will protect you from hypothermia. It must have a hood. It must be water-resistant and preferably breathable, that is, it allows your sweat to escape without letting rainwater in. NOT RECOMMENDED but can be replaced by a regular raincoat.
-
Hiking pants - 1 or 2 units
-
Trekking boots - 1 unit
Ideally, they should be specific for mountaineering, with a good sole (ideally Vibram®), high shaft, water-resistant and preferably with a breathable GoreTex® membrane. Some people do the trail with regular sneakers, but THIS IS NOT RECOMMENDED.
-
Thin liner socks - 2 to 3 units
Opt for technical socks, specifically for mountaineering. They should have high breathability, which helps to keep your feet in contact with moisture from sweat as little as possible, one of the 3 factors that cause blisters.
-
Thick socks - 1 unit
To be used only when camping. Choose models made of merino wool.
-
Beanie - 1 unit
Opt for fleece models.
-
Bandana / expedition cap / hat - 1 unit
Opt for a bandana because it is much more versatile to withstand extreme environmental conditions.
-
Sunglasses - 1 unit
An essential item for a more comfortable trip. Radiation at altitude is greater than at sea level, so protect yourself!
-
Thin liner glove - 1 unit
Opt for those made of polyester.
-
Medium glove - 1 unit
Opt for models that are windproof.
-
Crocks or flip-flops - 1 pair
For use at camp.
ACCESSORIES
-
50 to 60L backpack - 1 unit
Must have a waist strap. Choose models that can be adapted for camelbacks.
-
Backpack raincoat - 1 unit
-
Headlamp - 1 unit
Having the looser ones, in addition to being more comfortable, is a safety issue if you have to go through a more technical section with little light. On some routes, we make a short climb to the summit in the late afternoon to catch a glimpse of the sunset, and the descent ends up being at night. If you insist on not investing in this item, you can even replace it with a cell phone flashlight, but IT IS NOT RECOMMENDED.
-
Set of spare batteries - 1 unit
Opt for lithium ones, which are more resistant to low temperatures.
-
Trekking poles (optional) - 1 pair
It says "optional" because many people take a while to get used to using them. The benefit is tremendous: it reduces the impact on your knees by up to 30%. If you use them, avoid those with screw or automatic locks. They are less resistant.
-
3L water tank with hose - 1 unit
Important item because dehydration at altitude increases the chance of altitude sickness (severe headaches and nausea, for example). This type of system prevents you from having to "take off and put on" your backpack, but it can even be replaced with plastic bottles.
-
1L waterproof bag (optional) - 1 unit
To protect/organize small items and electronics.
-
8L waterproof bag (optional) - 1 unit
To protect/organize clothes.
CAMPING / REFUGE
-
Tent - 1 unit
For one or two people weighing less than 2.5 kg. Only necessary if you choose the "camping" option for your stay from days 1 to 4. Available for rent.
-
0ºC sleeping bag (comfort) - 1 unit
The "limit" temperatures indicated by all manufacturers are very relative from person to person. The ideal is to always consider only the "comfort temperature". If this is similar to the external temperature of the environment, you will be able to sleep comfortably just wearing the second skin. Available for rent.
-
Insulating mattress - 1 unit
Preferably choose inflatable or closed-cell models. Only necessary if you choose the "camping" option for your stay from days 1 to 4. We have them available for rent.
-
Pillow (optional) - 1 unit
Use those specifically designed for camping, which are smaller and lighter than household ones. To avoid this extra weight, you can replace them with a blouse.
PERSONAL HYGIENE
-
Sunscreen SPF 50 or higher
Personal remedies.
-
Deodorant
