Exploring Patagonia with Australis means stepping into some of the most remote, untouched corners of the world—and you can do it at your own pace. Each day, expert guides offer multiple excursion options rated as easy, medium, or high difficulty, so travelers of all fitness levels can enjoy the journey.
Trip Planner Claudia Corona explores the bridge of the Stella Australis (Emily Stanton)
Easy Difficulty
Perfect for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace or have limited mobility. These excursions involve short walks on flat or gently sloping terrain or wildlife viewing by Zodiac.
Examples:
Magdalena Island: Stroll among a colony of Magellanic penguins (available on the Patagonian Explorer itinerary, sailing from Ushuaia to Punta Arenas)
Tucker Islets (by Zodiac): See penguins and seabirds without disembarking (available on the Fjords of Tierra del Fuego itinerary, sailing from Punta Arenas to Ushuaia).
Wulaia Bay (easy: A forest walk along the shoreline.
Medium-Difficulty
Ideal for moderately active travelers, these outings involve gentle elevation and uneven trails, typically lasting 1.5 to 2 hours.
Examples:
Pia Glacier Lookout (medium): Hike to a panoramic glacier viewpoint. If you want to have the time to experience the amazing calvings of this glacier, opt for this version rather than the high difficulty one!
Wulaia Bay (medium): Forest walk with moderate uphill climbs.
Ainsworth Bay: Explore native vegetation and wildlife habitats (available on the Fjords of Tierra del Fuego itinerary, sailing from Punta Arenas to Ushuaia).
Trip Planner Claudia Corona hiking on an Australis cruise, Wulaia Bay (Emily Stanton)
High-Difficulty
For adventurous guests, these excursions feature steeper climbs and more rugged terrain. Good fitness and sure footing are essential.
Examples:
Wulaia Bay (high): A longer, more strenuous hike to a high ridge.
Pia Glacier (high): A more challenging trail to higher viewpoints (weather permitting).
All excursions are optional, and your guides will brief you each day to help you choose the best fit.
Important Note on Mobility:
A moderate level of mobility is required to fully enjoy the Australis experience. The ships are not equipped with lifts, so guests should be comfortable navigating staircases onboard. All landings are made by Zodiac, which requires stepping in and out of the inflatable boats—sometimes in wet conditions. Regardless of the excursion’s designated difficulty level, terrain in Patagonia can be uneven, slippery, or muddy. Good footwear - better if waterproof - and good balance are essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Ready to experience Patagonia your way? Contact one of our expert Trip Planners to begin planning your Australis adventure—whether you’re looking for gentle walks or challenging hikes!
Our team is waiting and ready to talk with you about your next adventure.
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The online suggested trips were a great starting point. It was easy to adjust the trip itinerary for our interests and timeframe. Sandra was very responsive to questions and concerns. She answered every question quickly and thoroughly.
Sue D.
1 month ago
Very easy to work out lots of details with Erin as we are coordinating 3 different adventures into 1 continuous trip.
Dear Customer
2 months ago
Communicating in a clear prompt manner
Andrew Warden
3 months ago
Adventure-Life is our sole resource for travel. Kassandra and Neth have proven themselves and taken the time to learn our needs and desires. They take care of us like family.
Kathryn Jones
3 months ago
My travel rep, Franny Friesz, has been super helpful. Communications have been smooth, and all needed information provided in a timely fashion.
