Proper preparation is essential to fully enjoy the challenges of trekking in Patagonia. To get ready for this adventure, focus on enhancing your cardiovascular endurance, leg strength, and core stability. Engage in activities such as hiking, running, or cycling, aiming for at least three to four sessions of 30 minutes at moderate intensity per week, and gradually increasing to four to six sessions of 45-60 minutes each. Incorporate hikes on varied terrain, progressively increasing your pack weight to simulate trekking conditions; starting with a 10-pound pack and adding weight incrementally until comfortable carrying 20-25 pounds. Additionally, include strength training exercises like squats, lunges, and step aerobics to build the necessary muscle endurance. Equally important is mental preparation—approach the journey with patience and a positive mindset. With dedicated training, you'll be well-prepared to embrace the unforgettable adventure that Patagonia offers.
Proper preparation and equipment are essential for your safety and comfort during this Patagonia Expedition. Below is a comprehensive kit list to help you prepare:
+ Kit ListFREC 3 medic in the team / Robust medical evacuation plan / In team medical kit
Please ensure that you have the correct insurance cover before departing for this trip. Your insurance must cover trekking up to an altitude of 3776 meters / 12388 feet. Insurance MUST cover helicopter rescue and repatriation.
Exploring Patagonia’s volcanoes is an immersive adventure that blends raw wilderness, cultural depth, and high-altitude challenge. Led by Jay Morton, this expedition takes you through the heart of South America’s most dramatic landscapes, from the lakes and forests of Argentina to the glaciated volcanic peaks of Chile. Each ascent, from the iconic cone of Lanín to the active crater of Villarrica and the icy flanks of Mocho Choshuenco, offers a unique test of endurance, teamwork, and focus. Between climbs, you will experience Patagonia’s rich culture and warm hospitality, from local asados to relaxing hot springs. This is more than a journey across borders and summits; it is a transformative experience through one of the world’s last great frontiers.
Embarking on a tour of Patagonia’s volcanoes is more than an adventure. It’s an opportunity to explore one of the world’s most remote and awe-inspiring regions. This journey takes you deep into the Andes, where the peaks of Lanín, Villarrica, and Mocho Choshuenco offer both challenge and reward. You’ll traverse glacial terrain, stand on the rim of a lava-filled crater, and take in sweeping views across Argentina and Chile. Between climbs, you’ll discover vibrant mountain towns, unwind in natural hot springs, and experience Patagonia’s rich culture through traditional food and warm hospitality. This expedition is about pushing limits, embracing the wild, and creating memories that will stay with you long after you leave.
Clothing
Base Layers
3-4 thermal tops (moisture-wicking)
2 thermal bottoms (moisture-wicking)
Mid Layers
2-3 mid layer top with hood
Outer Layers
Waterproof, breathable hardshell jacket with a hood (GORE-TEX or equivalent)
Waterproof trousers
Softshell alpine trousers
Softshell Jacket Insulated Layers
Insulated softshell or lightweight down jacket
Insulated gillet or body warmer
Heavyweight down or synthetic insulated jacket for extreme cold temperatures
Insulated trousers down or synthetic
Trekking Clothes
2-3 pairs of trekking pants (quick-drying)
1-2 Trekking shorts or sports shorts
2-3 lightweight wicking t-shirts
Underwear
Multiple sets of sports underwear (merino preferred)
Gloves
Lightweight gloves for trekking
Insulated gloves or mitts
Spare gloves
Headwear
Warm beanie or fleece hat
Neck gaiter or Buff
Baseball cap or sun hat
Footwear:
Mountaineering boot, B1 or B2. Compatible with your crampons
Sturdy, waterproof trekking boots or approach shoes (broken in before the trek)
6-7 pairs of moisture-wicking trekking socks
Sandals or sturdy flip flops for Base Camp
Gaiters (optional)
Climbing Gear:
12 point crampons
Climbing Harness
Climbing Helmet
Mountaineering Ice Axe
3x open gate carabiner, 3x screw gate or three lock carabiner
Cows tail attachment
Sleeping Gear:
Sleeping bag rated for extreme cold (up to -30°C/-20°F)
Sleeping bag liner (for added warmth)
Inflatable expedition-down sleeping mat
Foam sleeping mat
Down tent booties
Backpacks & Bags:
Daypack (40-50L)
1 x large duffle bag
Accessories:
Mountain sunglasses with Cat 4
Ski Goggles
Expedition Headtorch with spare batteries
Spare Headtorch for use in BC
2x 1L water bottles with insulation pouch and/or hydration bladder
Buff or neck gaiter
Heat pads for hands (optional)
Pee bottle or she-wee for women (larger the better, please trail before departure for slicker in tent admin)
Insulated mug
Knife or multitool
Spoon
Thermos 1L
Spare clothes for downtime
Trekking Gear:
Trekking poles (optional)
Food & Hydration:
Snacks (energy bars, nuts, dried fruit, jerkey, chocolate, etc.)
Electrolyte tablets or powders
Toiletries & First Aid:
Travel-sized toiletries (biodegradable where possible)
Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and lip balm with UV protection (plus spares)
Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
Personal first aid kit (including altitude medication, blister care, and any prescriptions)
Lightweight travel towel
Personal Items:
Camera or smartphone with extra batteries
Personal camera for catching memories
Documents & Essentials:
Passport (with necessary visas and permits and at least six months left until expiration)
Necessary Visa (if required)
Travel insurance with high-altitude, heli rescue and repatriation coverage
Cash (For tips, snacks, and incidentals)
Earplugs for sleeping
Correct travel plug adapter
Optional Items:
Camera or GoPro with spare batteries
Lightweight book or e-reader
Earplugs and facemask
Battery pack
Portable solar charger (optional)
Hand warmers (optional)
Snacks (energy bars, nuts, dried fruit, jerkey, chocolate, etc.) Electrolyte tablets or powders
Passport: With necessary visas and permits and at least six months left until expiration
Visa: If required
Travel insurance: With high-altitude, helicopter rescue and repatriation coverage
Cash: For tips, snacks, and incidentals
Earplugs: For sleeping
Travel: Plug adapter
Expert Local Guides: Professional and experienced guides to ensure your safety and enhance your journey
Airport Transfers: Pick up and drop off from the Arrival airport to the local hotel
Park Permits: Permits for entry to national parks
Medical Support: FREC 3 medic provided throughout the expedition
Transfers: All necessary transportation during the expedition
Technical Mountain Gear: Essential equipment provided for safe and successful climbs
Meals: Nutritious and delicious meals prepared by a dedicated cook throughout the trip
Farewell Argentine Asado: Celebrate the expedition with a traditional Argentine barbecue
High-Quality Accommodation: Stay in comfortable hotels, mountain cabins, and refuges
International Flights: Airfare to and from the starting location in Patagonia
Travel Insurance: Personal travel and health insurance, including coverage for high-altitude activities and emergencies
Visa Fees: Any required visas or entry permits for Argentina or Chile
Personal Expenses: Snacks, drinks, laundry, souvenirs, and other personal items
Extra Meals: Meals not specified in the itinerary or during personal exploration
Tips: Gratuities for guides, porters, and staff (optional but appreciated)
Additional Gear: Personal clothing, footwear, and any climbing equipment not listed as provided
Food & Hydration Recommendations
Snacks (energy bars, nuts, dried fruit, jerkey, chocolate, etc.) Electrolyte tablets or powders
If you cancel your trip, deductions will be made from your advance payment to cover allocated costs. Charges are: 90+ days before departure:
Full refund of deposit 61-90 days:
70% refund of deposit 46-60 days:
50% refund of deposit 31-45 days:
No deposit refund + 30% of total trip cost
30 days or less: 100% of total trip cost
All cancellations must be submitted in writing (email or letter) within the notice period.