Sailing the Last Hope Fjord

**Glaciar Balmaceda** is part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, the third largest freshwater ice extension in the world after Antarctica and Greenland. To reach it, you must sail through the Fiordo Última Esperanza, an arm of the sea that received this name from the 1830 English expedition that sought the passage between oceans.

The Navigation From Puerto Natales, boats depart towards the Eastern Shore of Lake Pehoé and from there continue to the glacier. The complete trip takes approximately 4 hours, including a short hike to the Glaciar Serrano viewpoint.

What makes this experience special is the scale. Glaciar Balmaceda is approximately 14 km long and its face rises between 50 and 80 meters above water level. During the navigation, you can see icebergs that have broken off and float in the fjord, some the size of apartments.

Geological History The glaciers of Patagonia formed during the last glaciation, approximately 20,000 years ago. Today, Patagonian glaciers are in accelerated retreat due to climate change. In recent decades, Glaciar Balmaceda has retreated several kilometers.

Flora and Fauna The surroundings aren't just ice. The navigation passes through areas where the Valdavian rainforest meets the water. You might spot sea lions, otters, and on the slopes, condors circling on thermal currents.

Recommendations - **Bring**: Binoculars, camera with good zoom, sunscreen (the reflection on the water is intense), and layers because the temperature drops as you get closer to the glacier. - **Best season**: November to March, but avoid January if you don't like crowds. - **Tours**: From Puerto Natales, there are local operators offering the complete tour including transportation to/from the dock.

After a morning in the fjord, returning to your cabin at Estepa and resting with a hot meal is exactly what you need. The Patagonian wind doesn't forgive, and after sailing among icebergs, a wood stove is very welcome.