Patagonia’s Last Light: A Journey Through Tierra del Fuego

From: March 29, 2026
To: April 12, 2026
Status: Get Ready to Explore

Number of days/nights:

15 days 14 nights

Location:

Tierra del Fuego Island, Chile

Participants:

8 in shared double cabins

Photography Experience Level:

Open to all levels

Physical Fitness Level:

Easy, suitable for all levels

Guiding Team:

Guy Wenborne

Expedition Transport:

Fjord navigation and overland explorations

Expedition start and end:

Punta Arenas, Chile

A Journey to the Edge of the World

At the southernmost reaches of the Americas, where the land fractures into a labyrinth of ice, sea, and forest, lies one of the last untouched frontiers on Earth—Tierra del Fuego. Here, the Andes Mountains collapse into the wild Southern Ocean, glaciers flow like frozen rivers, and ancient forests cling to cliffs under skies of ever-shifting light. It is in this remote realm that we embark on an extraordinary journey—by sea and by land—into Patagonia’s Last Light.

Part One: Sailing Through the Ice-Laden Fjords

Our adventure begins aboard the M/V Alakush, a robust expedition vessel specially designed to navigate the silent fjords and hidden coves of the Darwin Range. Over six unforgettable days, we will sail through the legendary Parry, Ainsworth, and Brooks fjords, cross the storied Strait of Magellan, and trace the icy fingers of nine colossal glaciers.

Beneath towering cliffs and mist-draped mountains, we will witness the slow, breathtaking dance of calving glaciers and the vivid palette of Patagonian autumn—deep blues, glacial whites, emerald forests, and storm-laden skies. Amidst this raw splendor, we may encounter elusive leopard seals, condors soaring low over the cliffs, and the haunting stillness of a world etched by time and tide.

Life aboard the Alakush promises both comfort and camaraderie: panoramic views from the cozy lounge, daily shore landings with our expedition zodiac, traditional Patagonian meals, and evenings anchored in sheltered coves. Every moment is designed to immerse you in the spirit of exploration and photography.

Part Two: Overland Into Tierra del Fuego’s Autumn Heart

After disembarking at Caleta María, our journey continues by land across the legendary Tierra del Fuego Island. In early April, the austral autumn unfurls in a breathtaking tapestry—the Lengas and Ñires forests ablaze in hues of gold, crimson, and amber against a backdrop of endless skies and snow-dusted peaks.

We will travel through vast Patagonian pampas and remote mountain passes, visiting places where the wild heart of the land reveals itself: the King Penguin colony standing defiant against the southern winds; Yendegaia National Park with its dramatic fjords and glaciers; and the windswept shores of Lago Fagnano.

One of the highlights of our land journey will be a full-day horseback riding experience alongside local gauchos, the legendary horsemen of Patagonia. Riding across the open pampas, we will immerse ourselves in their traditional way of life, feeling the deep connection between rider, horse, and land—a timeless bond that has shaped the spirit of Tierra del Fuego for generations.

Throughout the journey, we will chase the golden light—at sunrise, sunset, and beneath the stars—capturing the ephemeral beauty of a world where nature reigns supreme and where every frame tells a story of wonder.

Expedition Highlights

  • Navigate remote fjords aboard the M/V Alakush, with daily landings to explore pristine glacial landscapes.
  • Witness the spectacular autumn colors of Tierra del Fuego’s ancient forests.
  • Photograph King Penguins in one of the southernmost colonies on Earth.
  • Discover the hidden wonders of Yendegaia National Park.
  • Receive personalized photographic guidance and nightly photo reviews.
  • Travel with an expert guide team deeply connected to the land and its stories.

Beyond the Darwin: Exploring Chile’s Natural Wonders

For those wishing to extend their journey in Chile, we offer customized travel experiences to some of the country’s most breathtaking destinations like the Atacama Desert and Torres del Paine.

Let us know if you’d like to add an extension to your trip, and we will craft a personalized package to ensure an unforgettable continuation of your Chilean adventure

WHAT TO BRING

  • We will send you a list of what to bring and details on the specific Expeditions before the start date.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Two nights in a Hotel in Punta Arenas the day before departure and on the return day
  • Six nights onboard the Alakush in shared double cabins
  • Six nights in the Innata Lodge in Tierra del Fuego
  • A day of horse back riding in Tierra del Fuego lead by “Wilki”
  • Visit to “Estancia Hermanos” to visit a King Penguim collony.
  • Airport transfer in Punta Arenas
  • All land and sea transportation during the trip
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
  • Professional photography guidance and personalized support throughout the expedition
  • A lot of fun…..

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

  • International flights to and from Santiago and to and from Punta Arenas (we can arrange internal flights for you)
  • Internaltional medical and evacutation insurance (required from all participants)
  • Anything else not listed as included

Payment Details

For cost and payment information, please contact us via the form or our WhatsApp

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Gallery

Enrique Huanca Pairo

Guest Guide

Born in an Aymara family, Enrique calls the Arica and Parinacota region (the Chilean Altiplano) his home. He has over 27 years of experience in adventure tourism, working as a mountain and trekking guide with extensive knowledge of the Altiplano environment. He has completed training with NOLS (National Outdoor Leadership School), the Patagonia Guide School, and the Peruvian Guide School, holds a WAFA (Wilderness Advanced First Aid) certification. Enrique is also a Chef graduated in International Gastronomy.

Andres Puiggros

Guest Expedition Leader

Agricultural Engineer by profession and nature photographer by passion, I have found in the Arica and Parinacota Region the perfect blend of both worlds. I arrived in Arica in 2007, and since then, I’ve devoted myself to exploring its most remote and stunning landscapes — from the lush valleys and fertile foothills to the majestic and mystical highlands.

Traversing the driest desert in the world while discovering hidden sanctuaries of pure and diverse nature is an experience I invite everyone to live. The region’s biodiversity is astonishing and distinct from the rest of the country, shaped by our unique climatic and geographical conditions. From the pristine night skies of the altiplano, the vastness of the desert, the grandeur of Lake Chungará, to the singular native flora species — this region offers endless opportunities to capture its natural richness through photography. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss.

Email: andres.puiggros@gmail.com

Andel Alexa Paulmann Mast

Guest Expedition Leader

After years working as a designer, Andel decided to merge her greatest passions: nature, photography, and art. Since 2011, she has dedicated herself fully to nature photography, specializing in landscapes. She guides photographic expeditions and workshops, delivers lectures, serves as a juror in various photography competitions, and teaches photography courses. Between 2014 and 2019, Andel worked with Natphoto, and in the summer of 2015, she served as a photographer and guide in Antarctica. Her photographic work has been showcased in several individual exhibitions, and she has participated in numerous group exhibits. She founded the Facebook group “Bosques Nativos de Chile” (Native Forests of Chile) to raise awareness of the importance and beauty of Chilean native forests, and her photographs have contributed to books dedicated to nature and conservation. Andel represented Chile along with fellow photographers in the World Photographic Cup, participated in a photography Biennale in China, and won third place in photography at the International Art Biennale in Argentina.

Andel is deeply committed to landscape conservation and aims, through her work, to inspire awareness about the beauty and vital need to protect natural landscapes, particularly those that remain pristine.

Sebastián Wilson León

Guest Expedition Leader

Sebastián is a distinguished photographer based in Santiago, Chile specializing in architectural and landscape photography. His work is recognized for its exceptional clarity, precise composition, and evocative use of light and shadow. Sebastián’s architectural photography highlights the design and form of structures globally, while his landscape work captures the grandeur and beauty of the natural world. Featured in numerous publications, his images demonstrate a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for his subjects. Sebastián worked with Natphoto as teacher and workshop guide for several years. For more than 10 years he’s dedicated to education, sharing his expertise through workshops, podcasts and seminars and in particular asLightroom instructor. His photography is a testament to his passion and skill, consistently delivering visually stunning and emotionally resonant images.

Maria Jesús Toledo

Client Experience & Communications

María Jesús Toledo brings to Southern Light a unique blend of human sensitivity, strategic vision, and a deep commitment to creating meaningful experiences.

With a background in Public Relations and ongoing studies in Psychology, she has led projects in foundations, creative agencies, and social organizations—always with a focus on empathetic communication, seamless execution, and experiences with purpose. Her career spans from coordinating large-scale events for global brands to managing impactful digital campaigns in the nonprofit world.

As a certified yoga and meditation instructor with additional training in neuroscience and emotional well-being, she offers a holistic perspective that blends logistics with genuine care for every traveler.

At Southern Light, María Jesús is behind the scenes making sure every detail runs smoothly and every message resonates. She is the bridge between the expeditions and the people who join them—ensuring that every journey into nature is also an opportunity for inner connection.