Interested in Horseback Riding, Puma Tracking, or Fly Fishing in Patagonia? We’ve got some tips.
Interested in Horseback Riding, Puma Tracking, or Fly Fishing in Patagonia? We’ve got some tips.
All of our excursions in Patagonia are remarkable, and most guests embark on several while they are with us. We’ve found that some folks can be hesitant when it comes to a few of them (horseback riding, puma tracking, and fly fishing in particular), and usually because they’re novices. We’re here to say: Don’t let the fact that you haven’t done these before deter you! They are fun, relatively easy, and are sure to be some of your most treasured memories of your time in Chile.
Here are a few tips to help make the most of these truly unforgettable experiences:
Horseback Riding
Horses have been used by the indigenous people of Patagonia for centuries, and seeing this dazzling environment from atop one of these majestic creatures is truly unforgettable. If you’re a rookie equestrian, that’s perfectly fine—many of our guests are! Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Gear up: You don’t need much—we’ll supply the expertise and guidance, as well as a helmet (non-negotiable for safety). Be sure to wear closed-toe shoes made for an active experience, and it’s best to wear long pants.
Be calm and confident: Remember, these horses carry strangers every day… that’s what they’re trained to do, and this is just another day at the office for them! You can help them by remaining calm. Don’t grip the reins too tightly. Provide subtle cues to your horse–no need to yank the reins; they’ll respond to fairly minor movements of the reins. Speak commands firmly but gently.
Enjoy yourself: As noted above, this is no big deal to the horse, so it’s best to relax. Take some deep breaths, talk with your fellow travelers, and enjoy the stunning environment. The more at ease you are, the more at ease your horse will be.
Listen to your guide: They’re pros and they’ve seen it all. If you have questions, simply ask them. Pay attention to their instructions, stay alert, and you’ll have a great time!
Fly Fishing
Patagonia is truly one of the world’s great fishing destinations—not only is it beautiful, but the waters are brimming with rainbow trout, salmon (Atlantic, Coho, and King), and a variety of other fish. If you’re a novice, that’s no problem at all—our excursions cater to all experience levels. Some things to keep in mind:
When it comes to casting, keep it at 10-and-2: Casting can be a bit challenging at the start, but it will feel natural with practice. Remember to focus on smooth movements above your head, back and forth. Imagine your rod is the hand of a clock going back and forth between 10 and 2. This is a classic way to train yourself in proper casting.
You don’t need to cast too far: It’s better to keep your cast close to you and controlled than far away and erratic. You’d be surprised how close the fish can be!
Pay attention: One of the best parts of fly fishing is how it helps you tune into nature. Watch the water for eddies and pools. Let your fly naturally drift downstream, as an actual insect would. And most of all, listen to your guide–they are not only fishing experts, they’re great teachers.
Be patient: Fishing is, in part, meant to be an escape from the need for immediate gratification. As an anonymous angler once said: “Fish come when they’re ready, not when you are. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the water."
Puma Tracking
Imagine it: It’s early morning. The air is brisk, and the dawn is painting the sky in brilliant hues. All around you, the breathtaking and humbling grandeur of Torres del Paine unfolds in a prismatic panorama as you seek out the majestic Patagonian puma. There’s nothing quite like it, and you’ll want to keep a few things in mind in order to make the most of your experience.
Keep quiet: Pumas have exceptional hearing and any unexpected noise could scare them off. Remain as silent as possible.
Stay alert: Keep an eye on our surroundings, and look for any signals that elusive cats may be in the area. Your guides can help train you in elements of tracking, including spotting paw prints, scat, or even prey kills.
Listen to your guide: Not only will this expert provide you with a wealth of knowledge on this majestic creature, they’ll give you the best insights on how to see these fantastic felines in their natural environment.