A native of Chile, Pamela Gomez felt the call of the wild in Patagonia, leaving the capital to follow her dream of guiding tourists on horseback through the stunning landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park.
Horse riding through Las Torres in Patagonia is a popular and scenic activity, offering a unique way to explore a region known for its dramatic mountains, azure lakes, and diverse wildlife. Our team enjoyed a fantastic visit to the park, staying in Hotel Las Torres and embarking on a stunning horse ride with Pamela leading the group. We spoke with her about what life is like in this epic part of the South American continent.
I’m from Santiago and I am a tour guide working in Torres del Paine National Park. I love nature, the flora and fauna, and I am fascinated by the mountains and feeling small in front of them. I’m always looking for it, anywhere in the world. When I walk along the trail, I observe, I hear, I smell, I feel, in order to be part of it. And that’s why this place in Patagonia attracted me in such a way that it makes me feel that in one way or another, I belong here. I feel that this remote place of the world presented itself to me without looking for it or forcing it, and it caught me with its scenic beauty, its special fauna, its unique clouds, and its culture that is still preserved.
A typical day for me is, first of all, start by checking the weather so I will know what the rest of the day will bring us on the excursion. I’m getting ready to get some energy for the rest of the day at the hotel staff’s kitchen to have breakfast and say hello to my colleagues. Then I go to pick up my passengers at the hotel lobby to give them a little briefing, tips and safety instructions before starting the excursion. And during the excursion, I’ll find out how much my passengers know about Patagonia!
The beautiful landscapes, the mountains, the lakes and the contrast of colours, of course, are things that impress us all in this area of Patagonia. But in particular, what I like and enjoy the most (perhaps more than the passengers) are the horse rides. Having the opportunity to work with horses has awakened in me an inexplicable passion. Being able to show the passengers and teach them more about these beautiful beings leaves me with tremendous happiness.
One of the most memorable moments was a visit to Base Torres. It was a beautiful day; everything was going very well, but we knew that strong winds were coming during the afternoon. Already going down the path and arriving at the Chilean refuge, the spectacle of the Patagonian wind began, which did not allow us to continue in the direction of the hotel, and we were trapped for 2 hours at the refuge, where we were attended to very well, but with the uncertainty of whether we would return to the hotel, or not. It was impressive to see a cloud of dust descend through the hillside of Admirante Nieto Mount, thinking at the same time how dangerous it was to be exposed to it on the trail as many people were.
One of the most difficult things to deal with is the weather. Adverse weather and rain can occur at any time. Everything is unpredictable. Even the fauna can also be a challenge. Meeting pumas in the middle of the road is impressive and majestic as long as you protect and respect them. That is why the decisions that the guide makes during the excursion have to be correct, and this avoids all kinds of risks.
The first and most important is to prepare to experience the four seasons in one day. As we already know, with unpredictable weather, it is best to be prepared and avoid bad experiences. Bring layered clothing first, second (thermal) and third (waterproof). Bring a good camera and batteries because you will want to record everything around you.
It is a difficult question because the park has different landscapes and colours throughout the seasons. In autumn, the change from green to yellow to red is observed, forming a beautiful colour degradation. But I must say that summer is my favourite. The contrast of colours is impressive, the turquoise blue of the rivers and lakes is unique in Patagonia. In addition, in summer the flowers are at their peak of flowering, you will be surprised to see them, especially orchids. If you like birds, also in summer, you can appreciate a huge diversity of them, fauna in general, and the chulengos (baby guanaco) grazing in the pampas. Perhaps the weather is unpredictable, and there are strong winds, but experiencing the strength of the wind in Patagonia is something incredible. From November to January, you’ll find a shining sun and long days to hike.
It was this last season. I was on a horseback riding excursion, on a pause giving instructions before galloping, and suddenly I heard many horses pee (when the horses do that, you have to get up to relieve the pressure of the kidneys), and I asked: “who is peeing?” and a passenger said to me: “You! Well, not you, your horse!” Everyone started laughing out loud. It was very funny, and we had a great time. It was an excellent group.
Ready to book your trip to stunning Chilean Patagonia? Get in touch with one of our Latin specialists today on 020 8038 2796, or complete the enquiry form to get in touch.
Leave a Reply