Puma Tracking in Patagonia (Private Estancia)- 3 Days – Chile

Exclusive Puma Tracking in Torres del Paine – A Premier Wildlife Experience:

Join a once-in-a-lifetime Puma Tracking Tour in Torres del Paine, Chile, home to the highest density of wild pumas in the world. This high-end experience takes place on a private 7,000-hectare reserve, offering unmatched access to prime puma territory—away from the crowded public roads of the national park. Led by expert trackers with high viewing success rates, this adventure provides an intimate and responsible way to observe Patagonia’s top predator in its natural environment.

This 3-day exclusive journey extends beyond puma sightings, offering opportunities to encounter Huemul deer, Guanacos, Andean Condors, Grey Foxes, and other native wildlife. With the freedom to track off-road, this setting provides close-range photography, incredible birdwatching, and breathtaking landscapes, ensuring an unforgettable experience in one of Chile’s most stunning wilderness areas.

Puma Tracking: Inside Torres del Paine vs. Private Reserves

Puma tracking in Patagonia can be done inside Torres del Paine National Park or on private lands bordering the park. While both offer unique experiences, private reserves provide a distinct advantage for those seeking closer encounters, fewer crowds, and more flexibility.

Inside Torres del Paine National Park

Budget-friendly option with access limited to public roads and viewpoints.
No off-trail tracking—puma sightings depend on distance and visibility.
More visitors, making the experience less private.

Private Reserve Puma Tracking

Higher success rate with expert trackers using advanced tracking methods.
Exclusive, small-group experience in a remote and pristine setting.
Off-road tracking allows for closer, more immersive encounters.

For the best wildlife experience in Patagonia, private reserve tracking ensures a high-level adventure, offering unrivaled access, expert guidance, and up-close wildlife encounters in one of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Puma Tracking

ITINERARY FOR 3-DAY PUMA WATCHING TOUR

Day 1: Departing from the hotel, we head straight to the Land of the Pumas, arriving at dawn. Accompanied by our skilled tracker, we'll explore various areas of the ranch to maximize chances of spotting a roaming puma. Communication via radio keeps us informed of puma sightings and locations. After a 3–4 hour search, we return to the hotel for lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, we venture out for another search, returning for dinner and rest.

Day 2: Puma Tracking

Day 2: Rising early, we enjoy a to-go breakfast and begin our search at the crack of dawn. The schedule mirrors day 1 with both morning and afternoon field searches. At day's end, we return to our accommodation for dinner.

Day 3: Puma Tracking

Day 3: On the final day, we pack up and repeat the search as before. We conclude the experience, savoring the last rays of sun, before heading back to your hotel in Puerto Natales.

Extra days: Each day follows the same schedule.

Note: A separate tracker incurs an additional cost. While our guides also serve as trackers, having both provides enhanced search opportunities. The tracker commences the search early, optimizing our time, and we divide into different areas of the property.

Please Note: This itinerary is subject to change based on weather conditions and wildlife behavior to offer you the best experience possible.

Additional Trip Details

EXPECTATIONS AND REALITY

At our core, transparency is vital; we want our valued guests to fully understand what we offer. Puma searches can span hours or even days, demanding patience and waiting. Some sightings may pose challenges in access or proximity, like obscured views amid branches and angles. Safety, both for the pumas and us, is paramount.

A PERFECT PROGRAM FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS AND NATURALISTS

The journey commences with the captivating search, blending knowledge, luck, and patience. We observe the surroundings, listen for guanaco alarms, and watch soaring scavengers like the condor. These signs guide us to potential puma locations. Be immersed in our field operation, animal behavior insights, and the estancia's commitment to Chile's majestic felines. The duration is uncertain, but rest assured, we persist until we encounter these elusive pumas.

When we locate a puma, we assess its demeanor and plan a cautious approach, as each one's tolerance varies. As we tread the wild, we think like pumas and guanacos, making the experience indelible, etching lasting memories for a lifetime.

EQUIPMENT RECOMMENDATIONS

Photographic Equipment:

Minimum focal length: 400 mm
Recommended: 600/500 mm
Lens: 70-200 f/2.8 with a multiplier
For landscapes: 14-24 mm / 15-35 mm lens

Other Essentials:

Tripod
Binoculars
Extra memory cards
Extra batteries

Ensure you have these equipment essentials to make the most of your Puma Tracking Tour!

THE ULTIMATE DESTINATION FOR PUMA OBSERVATION AND PHOTOGRAPHY

Chilean Patagonia has emerged as the world's premier destination for observing and photographing pumas. Renowned TV productions, such as "Our National Parks" (Netflix, 2022), "Dynasties II" (BBC Earth series, 2022), and "Pumas: Legends of the Ice Mountains" (PBS, 2021), have showcased these captivating felines within the private property we operate.

Our unique advantage lies in the intimate relationship established with these pumas since their cub days. Their familiarity with human observation allows us to be present without causing disturbance. Identifying the pumas that tolerate our presence and respecting their boundaries are vital aspects of our approach. By nurturing a harmonious coexistence, we create an ideal setting for both the pumas and our guests, whether their aim is to photograph or simply observe these magnificent creatures.

GENERAL INFORMATION

There's a fixed daily fee covering entrance to the private property, specialized guide, vehicle, and gasoline. Accommodation and food costs depend on your chosen lodging and are to be factored in separately. We're here to assist you in finding the best options that suit both your preferences and budget.

For summer visits, we highly recommend staying close to the property, as we begin our activities with the first light of day, typically around 5 am, varying by month.

Keep in mind that this is private property, limiting the number of people allowed with their guide and puma-tracker. This ensures not only the best conditions for photographers but also for the pumas, allowing for an unparalleled experience.

Additional Trip Info

Private Service
Specialized guide/tracker
Vehicle
Daily entrance fee to the property
1 car is for a maximum of 3-4 people (recommended maximum 3). When there are 5 to 6 people there will be 2 cars and 2 guides/trackers

Travel Insurance - We recommend Insuremytrip, or Global Rescue
Accommodation
Meals
Extra puma tracker

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Please bring clothes in neutral colors such as brown, black, gray, and camouflage to blend with the environment. Be prepared for walking and standing still for extended periods while observing and photographing pumas; consider comfortable walking shoes and warm clothing suitable for all weather conditions.

Here's the checklist: