Puma Tracking in Patagonia – Private 1-Day Wildlife Watching Tour
Description
Discover one of Patagonia’s most thrilling wildlife experiences on this exclusive 1-day private tour: Puma Tracking in Patagonia – Private 1-Day Wildlife Watching Tour. Operating from your base in Puerto Natales, you’ll head deep into Torres del Paine National Park in a 4×4 vehicle, guided by a specialist tracker whose sole focus is locating the elusive Patagonian puma (the famed “king of the mountain lions”).
This tour is crafted for serious wildlife enthusiasts who value comfort, exclusivity and locally-expert interpretation. With only up to three guests per vehicle, you’ll enjoy personalised attention, flexible timing and premium terrain access reserved for authorised operators. Your guide will share insights into puma behavior, tracks, ecology—and you'll be positioned in the best vantage spots for authentic observation and photography, while adhering strictly to conservation protocols.
Pickup is from your accommodation in Puerto Natales around 6:00 a.m. so that you arrive inside the park during dawn hours when puma activity is highest. After several hours of tracking, observation and immersion in Patagonian landscapes, you’ll return to Puerto Natales by early afternoon. For travelers with deep wildlife passion and limited time, this is the ultimate way to experience one of Chile’s most iconic wild cats—responsibly, comfortably and memorably.
Included
- Private Bilingual Guide / Driver
- Private 4x4 vehicle
- Observation equipment: Binoculars
Excluded
- Entrance fees to Torres del Paine National Park (Entrance to the park is mandatory and must be purchased exclusively online)
- Lunch
- Lodging
- Travel Insurance - We recommend Insuremytrip, or Global Rescue
Know before you go
What to Bring for Your Puma Tracking Tour
Puma watching takes place in a completely natural environment, where weather and terrain can change quickly. The right gear will help keep you comfortable, prepared, and able to fully enjoy the wildlife viewing experience. Below are the recommended essentials for this private safari:
Recommended Clothing & Accessories
- Neutral-colored clothing (brown, gray, earth tones, or camouflage) to stay discreet and avoid disturbing wildlife.
- Comfortable, sturdy footwear suitable for uneven terrain.
- Warm layers to adapt to shifting Patagonia weather.
- Rain jacket or waterproof shell for wind and precipitation.
- Thermal base layers (top and bottom) for early morning cold.
- Sun hat for daytime protection.
- Warm hat for cold mornings and windy conditions.
- Gloves for added warmth.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- High-SPF sunscreen (SPF 50+ recommended).
- Water bottle or thermos to stay hydrated.
Optional Photographic Equipment
Ideal for photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, and pros looking to capture high-quality images:
- Camera with a minimum 400mm lens (500–600mm ideal for puma photography).
- Wide-angle lens (14–24mm or 15–35mm) for landscapes and wider scenes.
- Tripod for stable long-distance shots.
- Binoculars for enhanced wildlife observation.
- Extra memory cards to avoid running out of storage.
- Spare batteries—cold temperatures drain power quickly.