TURBIO IV Patagonia Expedition
Guided Hiking, Mountaineering, Climbing & Packrafting

Turbio IV, a remote trekking adventure in Northern Patagonia. Explore wild valleys, granite peaks, glacial rivers, and untouched wilderness far from the crowded trails of Torres del Paine and El Chaltén. This guided expedition combines multi-day trekking, remote camping, and optional packrafting.

Few places in Patagonia still offer the feeling of true exploration. Turbio IV is a rare expedition into a remote corner of the Andes near Lago Puelo, Argentina, where hikers travel through untouched valleys, ancient forests, and rugged mountain terrain with little to no infrastructure along the way. Far from the classic tourist circuits, this multi-day trekking adventure is built for those seeking wilderness, solitude, and a deeper connection with Patagonia’s raw natural environment.

With opportunities for remote camping, river crossings, and optional packrafting, Turbio IV delivers an authentic backcountry experience in one of the wildest regions of Northern Patagonia.

How remote is Turbio IV?

 

Located about 60 km south west of the town of Lago Puelo, Argentina, the valley of Rio Turbio IV is an untouched paradise that has only been explored by the occasional intrepid climber or adventurous backpacker. Two hours south of Bariloche, Lago Puelo and El Bolsón are beautiful mountain towns close to the Northern boundary of Patagonia.

Frequently Asked Questions About Turbio IV

  • Turbio IV is a moderate to challenging Patagonia trekking expedition designed for hikers with good physical condition and experience carrying a backpack over multiple days. The route includes uneven terrain, river crossings, elevation gain, ziplines and remote camping in wild environments.

  • Previous hiking or backpacking experience is recommended. While our hiking trip is not a technical mountaineering trip, participants should feel comfortable hiking several hours per day in remote mountain terrain and changing weather conditions.

  • Unlike the more popular trekking destinations in Patagonia, Turbio IV offers a true expedition-style experience with very few people, no crowded refugios, and a stronger sense of exploration. The route travels through isolated valleys, untouched forests, and remote alpine terrain rarely visited by tourists.

  • Optional packrafting sections may be included depending on the itinerary, river conditions, and participant experience. This combination of trekking and packrafting creates a unique Patagonia wilderness adventure.

  • The duration of the Turbio IV expedition can vary depending on the chosen itinerary and objectives. Most programs range from several days to full multi-day wilderness expeditions.

  • This is a remote camping expedition. Participants sleep in tents, backcountry camps and huts surrounded by Patagonia’s wild mountain landscapes.

  • A detailed equipment list is provided before the trip. Essential gear usually includes trekking boots, waterproof clothing, a backpack, sleeping bag, and personal mountain equipment. Rental gear may be available on request.

  • The best season for trekking in Turbio IV is during the Patagonian summer, generally from December to March, when weather conditions are more stable and access is easier.

  • Yes. All expeditions are led by certified mountain guides with extensive local knowledge and wilderness experience in Patagonia.

  • Yes. Private guided trips and custom Patagonia expeditions can be organized depending on your objectives, experience level, and preferred dates.

  • Most trips begin near Lago Puelo or Bariloche in Argentine Patagonia. Transportation logistics and meeting points are organized before the expedition.

OUR TRIPS

Turbio IV Trekking Expedition

We start with a boat across a lake from the town of Lago Puelo. After reaching the shore on the other side we meet our gauchos and horses to carry some of our weight most of the way up Turbio valley. From there we cross a river by way of a wild Tyrollean traverse and head up to the third hut by the third day. Once we are up at the final Refugio we begin three days of exploring the higher valleys and their granite walls, glaciers, ice caves, and peaks above.

Season
December to March

Difficulty
Medium/Hard

Duration
9 Days

Meeting point
Lago Puelo

Trekking
Previous experience

Backpack
18 kg

Overnight
Tent/Refugio

Transfer
Included

Backpacking Packrafting in Turbio Valley

Again, we start in the beautiful town of Lago Puelo and meet a boat to cross the lake. From there we meet our gauchos and horses to carry our boats and equipment up to the confluence of the rivers, higher up in the valley. After that we head to the refugios. For three days we explore the higher valleys before heading all the way down to our boats. We inflate them, paddle down the river, and then camp by an awesome beach on a beautiful ranch with the nicest people you’ll ever meet. From there it’s an easy float down to the lake, where we meet up with our motor boat to bring us back to Lago Puelo to celebrate.

Season
December to March

Difficulty
Medium/Hard

Duration
9-10 Days

Meeting point
Lago Puelo

Trekking
Previous experience

Backpack
18 kg

Overnight
Tent/Refugio

Transfer
Included

Kayak
Packrafting
Class 1 / 2 river

Mountaineering in Turbio Valley

Here is the crown jewel of our trips! You get one full empanada with this one!

Again, we start in the beautiful town of Lago Puelo and meet a boat to cross the lake. From there we meet our gauchos and horses to carry our boats and climbing gear up to the confluence of the rivers, higher up in the valley. After that we head to the refugios. For four to five days we will make attempts at climbing the unbelievable peaks above before heading all the way down to our boats. We inflate them, paddle down the river, and then camp by an awesome beach on a beautiful ranch with the nicest people you’ll ever meet. From there it’s an easy float down to the lake, where we meet up with our motor boat to bring us back to Lago Puelo to celebrate.

Season
December to March

Difficulty
Hard

Duration
10-15 Days

Meeting point
Lago Puelo

Trekking
Previous experience

Backpack
25 kg

Overnight
Tent/Refugio

Transfer
Included

Mountaineering
Scrambling
Tyrolese
Glacier walking Optiononal

Kayak
Packrafting
Class 1 / 2 river

A minimal time of 10 days is advisable to visit the Turbio, the optimum is between 14 and 20 days to assure good weather window and enough time to enjoy the marvels that it have to offers.

The trip can be customize so please contact us if you have any questions.

More Publications on Turbio IV Valley

Climber in Turbio IV valley, Patagonia

THE ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME