San Valentin Expedition with Soren Kruse Ledet

San Valentin Expedition with Soren Kruse Ledet

14 Views
15 Days From

$7130

San Valentin Expedition with Soren Kruse Ledet

15 Days

Visiting: Patagonia, Chile

Tour operator:

World Expeditions

Tour code:

PSV

Group size:

6 - 10

Physical rating:

Advanced Mountaineering Expedition

From: $7130

NB: Prices correct on 24-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

World Expeditions are excited to announce an expedition to Mount San Valentin (4058m) - the highest peak in Patagonia. The location of San Valentin in the middle of the impressive Northern Patagonian Ice Field makes it a tremendous climb in one of the world's most remote and spectacular alpine environments. San Valentin is a serious expedition, with the likelihood of extreme weather, heavy loads to be carried and sled pulling required to access high camp. This expedition is for the highly motivated mountaineer, experienced with cold weather conditions, looking to make a summit attempt on this highly sought after mountain in a truly special alpine wilderness.

Highlights

  • Climb San Valentin (4058m) - the highest mountain in Patagonia

  • Haul a sled across the extraordinary Northern Patagonian Ice Cap

  • Take a helicopter onto the ice cap

  • Climb in one of the world's great alpine environments

  • Undertake a tremendous climb in the remote, impressive Northern Patagonian Ice Field

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Balmaceda To Terra Luna (1300M)

On arrival at the Balmaceda airport, you will be met by our local representative who will share the journey with you. We have a long drive ahead of us, down the Austal road to Puerto Guadal, so it is important you arrive no later than 12:00*. The drive will take us by Coyhaique, the capital of the Aysen region. If time allows, we will make a stop at the La Capilla de Marmol (the marble chapel) which is a magnificent marble cave, sculpted over eons by wind and water, set on the emerald green to turquoise blue waters of the General Carrera Lake. The lake is shared by Argentina and Chile, the fourth largest and largest in each respectively. We will spend the night at a charming lodge, which has a spectacular view of the lake and partake our first Patagonian dinner together as a group.*Note: Due to flight schedules it may be necessary for an additional night pre tour in Balmaceda/Coyhaique and we can help you book these additional arrangements.Overnight Terra Luna lodge.

Day 2 : Terra Luna (1300M)

Full day of preparation and expedition briefing at our lodge on the shores of Lake General Carrera. The lodge with its northwest orientation, more than 400m of beach and an extraordinary view of the lake and surrounding mountains, is the perfect base for our preparations. Overnight Terra Luna lodge.

Day 3 : Terra Luna To Italian Camp (1600M)

While the group makes its way to Lake Leones peninsula via jet boat & zodiac, a helicopter transports loads to Campo Italiano, and then a short ride on the helicopter to Campo Italiano. We set the camp with a fantastic panorama on the East side of the Northern icecap mountain range. Overnight camping

Day 4 : Italian Camp To Raton Camp (1900M)

Cross the icecap using snow shoes to reach Raton camp. We first have to climb 200m on a snow slope with crevasses to get to the pass that leads to the icefield. Once in this spectacular alpine environment we descend 200m and begin a long traverse (11kms) to reach a rocky ridge with an extraordinary view on the ice cap. A long day of about 8 hours on the ice cap, sharing the work of pulling a sled and carrying your full pack, before establishing camp for the evening, which generally takes about 2 hours, depending on the conditions. Overnight camping

Day 5 : Raton Camp To Terrace Camp (2400M)

Climb to Terrace Camp. A steady climb of about 500m to a pass between Mount Tobler and Fiero with extraordinary views of the Northern Patagonian Icefield with Mount San Valentin in the background. We camp just below the pass in front of the mountain. Again, crossing the Ice Cap involves pulling a sled and using snow shoes and this will take some time getting used to for those unfamiliar with the process. We will assist you in rigging your sled and demonstrating the various techniques for using snow shoes on glaciated terrain. Overnight camping

Day 6 : Terrace Camp To High Camp (3150M)

Long traverse of about 9km on a steady incline to set our camp at the base of San Valentin. We are now above 3000m, so pulling a sled and carrying a heavy pack will feel more exhausting at this altitude. But we have arrived at the base of San Valentin, and from here will launch our bid for the summit. Overnight camping

Day 7 - 10 : Climb San Valentin (4058M) Plus Contingency Days

This is the most serious part of the expedition. Summit day involves a long traverse on an exposed ridge, steep at parts up to 45 degrees, with high winds common. After 2-3hrs on the ridge we finally reach the summit plateau which leads slowly to the summit mushroom that we have to climb to reach the summit. We then need to recount our steps back to high camp, a long and exhausting day of 12+hrs of continuous climbing. 3 contingency days set aside in the case of poor weather. Sleds and snow shoes are not used on summit day, but rather traditional climbing gear. Overnight camping

Day 11 : High Camp To Raton Camp (1900M)

Return to Raton Camp via the same route we took earlier in the expedition. Overnight camping

Day 12 : Raton Camp To Italian Camp (1600M)

Return to Italian Camp via the same route we took earlier in the expedition.Overnight camping

Day 13 : Italian Camp To Terra Luna

Helicopter flight to Peninsula to get down to Terra Luna (with zodiac and jet boat or cars), while equipment is sent directly to the lodge by helicopter.Overnight camping

Day 14 : Terra Luna

Rest and reorganisation day. Depending on the conditions, we may use this day earlier in the trip as a contingency/weather day. If we are in Terra Luna, you may like to spend some well earned time in the sauna and spa at the lodge. Overnight Terra Luna lodge.

Day 15 : Terra Luna To Balmaceda

After a hearty breakfast, we will journey by road to Balmaceda, stopping for lunch on the way. We recommend an afternoon flight given Terra Luna Lodge is located 290 km south of Balmaceda Airport (approx. 4-5 hours). Depending on flight schedules it may be necessary for an additional night post tour in Balmaceda/Coyhaique and we can help you book these additional arrangements. Our trip concludes on arrival to Balmaceda.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    4 nights lodge

  • 14 breakfasts, 15 lunches, 14 dinners

  • World Expeditions mountaineering guide and local leader

  • Helicopter on and off the icecap

  • Comfortable lodge (twin sharing) at Terra Luna

  • All internal ground transport

  • Airport transfers

  • All national park and site entry fees

  • Group medical kit

  • Two person (twin sharing) tents and group camping equipment

  • All food and cooking equipment while on the mountain (prepared by individual group members)

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What You Carry

You will need to carry all your personal gear and you should expect your pack to weigh about 30kg. You also need to share in the work of pulling a sled that weighs about 50kg throughout the day. Throughout the expedition you will be required to establish camps, and this may take place in inclement weather. Your mountaineering pack needs to be a minimum 90 litre capacity.

Grading

These are our most challenging expeditions. Clients must have prior mountaineering experience. Members should be very fit and prepared for the hard work that an expedition of this type involves. The better your preparation, the more you will enjoy the experience and the more you will contribute to the success of the team. Unlike most other expeditions where you gradually build up intensity and work load this trip is challenging from the outset, so excellent fitness is imperative. Participation on one of these expeditions is subject to acceptance, with experience and suitability reviewed by our operations department and your mountaineering guide.

Check out our Q&As

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    We have offices on three continents which means your travelling companions will be just that – international and wonderfully eclectic. Part of small group travel means that although travellers come from various locations and backgrounds, you will be travelling with like-minded companions who, like you, are keen to share the experience and forge lifelong friendships.

  • What about environmental impact?

    We believe that adventure travel revolves around establishing a strong relationship with the people and environments in which we operate. Our responsible travel policies have been carefully developed to ensure that we minimise the impact of our presence and help to protect the regions we visit while contributing positively to the local community.

  • What should I pack?

    Your pre-departure documents include a detailed packing list with items that you need to bring. While most of the equipment for daily activities is included in your tour cost, some items like helmets and hiking boots are best brought from home. The pre-departure documents also include information on layering and recommended brands for various items to ensure you are fully prepared for your trip.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Yes. World Expeditions does not require single travellers to pay a surcharge for travelling alone on the vast majority of our trips. Our holidays are primarily on a twin share basis, so if you are joining the group as a solo traveller, we will match you with someone of your own gender. The choice is yours however; if you prefer not to share, we do offer single supplements for private occupancy.

  • Are tips included in my trip price?

    Tips are not included in the tour cost. Tipping is a personal thing, do not worry about how much, or when, to tip. Tipping guidelines are provided for certain destinations in our pre departure information upon booking, however the best advice will be provided by your tour leader.

  • Am I suited to small-group travel?

    We recognise that many of our travellers have not been on a ‘group trip’ before. Yet what our departures provide is both structure and flexibility, allowing you plenty of freedom within the framework of the itinerary. You’ll find that with our maximum group size at 16, you’ll travel in a minimal impact style with a great group of like-minded travellers.

  • Can you advise which vaccinations are recommended?

    While our pre-departure kit provides information on vaccinations, we suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.

Reviews of this operator

Sue Gunningham (Google Reviewer)  

Remote Northern Flinders Ranges (AUS)...

09-May-2021

Remote Northern Flinders Ranges (AUS) Camel Trek showed me the red, rugged heart of our country while removing all the chatter of life, leaving me free to walk, think and just 'be.' Ryan, the cameleer has an amazing affinity with his camels. It was a trek worth doing again.

kaja vovk (Google Reviewer)  

Due to an amazing experience...

30-Sep-2024

Due to an amazing experience with trekking in Bhutan organized by World Expeditions, I decided to join them this time for trekking in Tajikistan and visiting the Silk Road cities in Uzbekistan. Tajikistan is a true gem and an unexpected discovery. I was fascinated by the combination of trekking and the cultural experience of the cities of the Silk Road. The trek takes place in a beautiful part of the Pamir Mountains, full of mountain lakes and stunning views. Although it lasts only 5 days, it should not be underestimated. The guides, equipment, and organization were flawless. A special charm is added to this trip by homestays and overnight stays in yurts. Samarkand and Bukhara impressed me with their history and magnificent architecture.

Deb Martinez (Google Reviewer)  

Just completed a huge bucket...

08-Nov-2023

Just completed a huge bucket list item - trekking to Mt Everest base camp! The World Expeditions guides and support people were absolutely FANTASTIC. Without Balram, Dakmon and Amber’s support, knowledge and continuous encouragement I’m not sure I would have made it (not mention our 4 porters who hauled our bags to every campsite). Huge shoutout to these wonderful people and the many behind the scenes who made it possible for me to complete a 50+ year dream. Thanks team!!

Paul Screen (Google Reviewer)  

After three failed attempts to...

28-Jun-2022

After three failed attempts to visit Nepal and Everest Base Camp due to the pandemic, the UK team couldn't help enough with the forth rescheduling and assistance leading up and throughout the epic trip to Nepal. It was a truly wonderful experience from the moment we were picked up by the hotel staff and meeting Samde our guide, a lovely man who couldn’t do enough for us. These guys make the trip happen and without them would make it near on impossible. I did the trek for a charity close to me, Asthma UK and something I've suffered with for over 40 years. Raising a large amount of money to help with future research. Until the next world adventure, thank you once again to you and your colleagues in Nepal. I will be back at some point!

lin smith (Google Reviewer)  

I went on a trek...

13-Nov-2019

I went on a trek to the Himalayan region of Nepal. World Expeditions organised everything, from the flights, to the food and accommodation. We had guides and sherpas, all provided and the itinerary was second to none. I went with a grup of nine other friends and we all agreed that World Expeditions made it the holiday of a lifetime for every one of us.

Lindsey McIntosh (Google Reviewer)  

I travelled with World Expeditions...

06-Nov-2024

I travelled with World Expeditions on their three week Madagascar Adventure and it was absolutely fantastic. The organisation of the logistics was flawless and the standard of the hotels was way above what I expected. The lemurs and chameleons were much easier to see than I thought they would be. We saw about 13 types of lemur, most of them really close up. Brilliant! The vehicles were very comfortable and the long travelling days were actually fun with some exciting 4wd and lots of very beautiful terraced farming. The crew for the canoeing and the trek were excellent and all the camping was very comfortable with a high standard of food. Don't hesitate to book this. It was truly memorable.

Thomas Gravina (Google Reviewer)  

I have recently booked a...

08-Sep-2019

I have recently booked a hike to the top of Kilimanjaro through World Expeditions. The booking experience was very straightforward and the communication could not have been better. I booked quite last minute and everything on their side was very clear and timely - which made it for a stress-free experience. Thanks for your professionalism! The trip was not World Expeditions exclusive, which means it was done by a local company. I think it is great that World Expeditions works with local companies to fulfil their trip. I really enjoyed being able to connect with local communities and hear about the story of Tanzania. African Walking Company was great - the atmosphere was safe and friendly, yet serious about the risks. Guide, assistant guides and porters/helpers were all extremely helpful and enhanced the experience from start to finish!

Paul Christensen (Google Reviewer)  

We’ve just returned from a...

09-Nov-2024

We’ve just returned from a remarkable 12 days in Bhutan with World Expeditions and couldn’t recommend it more highly. The whole thing went brilliantly from start to finish. We were continually delighted, and our expectations were well and truly exceeded. The trekking team was genuinely outstanding. They worked tirelessly and delivered incredible meals and services for us, always with a bright smile. A simply perfect trip in the most stunning location. Can’t wait for the next one!

1 Select your preferred date

Sunday - Sunday

Dec 07, 2025 - Dec 21, 2025
$7130

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    World Expeditions allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform world expeditions, 70 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    World Expeditions requires a minimum deposit of 400 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of world expeditions charges.

    Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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