Discover adventure and history at Darwin Experience

Embark on a unique journey with Darwin Experience, a full day tour that immerses you on the patagonian steppe in an exceptional way. Navigate in double kayaks through the majestic Santa Cruz river, following the path that Charles Darwin did at El Calafate area in the 19th century.

• About the Tour

  Darwin Experience itinerary

  Start your day of aventure with our 4WD vehicle transfer service directly from your hotel in El Calafate. We’ll drive 40 km from the city to the emblematic Paraje Charles Fuhr.

  Hotel Pick-Up

  4×4 trip to the Santa Cruz River

  Kayak crossing

  Visit to the Bote River ranch

  Lunch by the river

  4×4 tour

  Return to El Calafate

  Incluido in the Tour

  The order of the schedules may vary depending on the day.

  Getting ready and technical talk

  Once we arrive, we’ll put down the kayaks, equip ourselves with Gore-Tex dry suits, life jackets, boots and gloves. Our certified guides will give you a brief technical talk and warm-up exercises to prepare you for the exciting trip.

  Kayaking on the Santa Cruz river

  Embark on the adventure of a lifetime as you travel 15 km of the Santa Cruz river for 80 minutes, reliving Charles Darwin historic journey through Patagonia. Enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds you as you make your way to Estancia El Rincón.

  Welcoming at Estancia El Rincón

  Upon arrival, another guide will welcome you and invite you to enjoy a lunch that includes grilled provoleta, beef stew (bifes a la criolla) and a delicious chocolate mousse. Beverages are also included.

  Return to the city

  After a tasty meal, begin your ride back to the city in our comfortable 4WD vehicles, surrounded by amazing landscapes and unforgettable memories.

  Accompanying options

  If you prefer not to paddle a kayak, we offer you the option of accompanying the group in the 4WD vehicles. You will be guided at all times and will meet the rest of the group at the Estancia to share a meal.

  Lunch menu

  • Focaccia with eggplant dip.
  • Provolone cheese with tomatoes.
  • Salads.
  • Striploin stew (bife angosto a la criolla).
  • Chocolate Mousse.
  • Beverages included.
• Things to Consider

  Live adventure and history with Darwin Experience. Book your tour now and become part of this unique patagonian experience.

  • Tour details

    Length

    Immerse on this adventure for 5 and a half hours, allowing you to explore and enjoy every moment to its fullest.

    Difficulty level

    Ranked as medium-difficult, this tour offers the perfect balance between challenges and fun, ensuring an exciting experience for everyone.

    Ages

    Designed for adventurers from 12 years of age, ensuring an experience adapted to the youngest travelers.

  • Suggestions

    Get ready for this journey by wearing warm clothes, gloves and comfortable shoewear, making sure you are ready to face any challenge that Patagonia presents you with.

  • Includes
    • Experience comfort from the start with a 4WD vehicle transfer from your hotel, giving you a unique and comfortable travel experience.
    • Enjoy an outdoor lunch in an authentic Patagonian estancia, immersing yourself in the local culture and gastronomy.
    • Embark on an exciting kayaking experience with double kayaks, paddles, Gore-Tex waterproof dry suit, boots, gloves and life jacket provided, ensuring your safety and comfort on the water.
• FAQ
  • How much of the tour is done by Kayak?

    The kayaking activity has a 15km route along the Santa Cruz river.

  • What’s the lunch menu?

    The menu will be Focaccia with eggplant dip, provolone cheese with tomatoes, salads, striploin stew (bife angosto a la criolla) chocolate mousse and drinks included.

  • What’s the difficulty level?

    This is a tour of medium difficulty, where participants must have a minimum of experience in kayaking to enjoy the activity.