Achibueno Autumn Expedition
The Achibueno River originates in the heart of the Andes Mountains. As we follow its course upstream, we'll discover impressive lagoons hidden among majestic mountains covered in oak and ñirre forests. More than ten lagoons are nestled in this setting, where the solitude and untamed nature of the mountain range create a mystical atmosphere, evoking the sensation of traveling back in time to an ancient era.
During the photography expedition, we'll explore the most beautiful spots, always prioritizing capturing images. The itinerary is flexible and can be adapted to your current interests, allowing us to dedicate more time to the most captivating locations.
Day 1
After being picked up at the agreed-upon point, we'll begin our journey to the city of Linares and, from there, continue on to Monte Oscuro, where we'll enjoy a welcome lunch. We'll then prepare our gear and begin the first leg of the expedition, traveling 6 km to Las Ánimas, the point where the Las Ánimas and Achibueno rivers meet. Here, we'll set up our first camp.
Day 2
After breakfast, we'll head to Las Ánimas Waterfall. Along the way, we'll have multiple opportunities to photograph the forests and the stunning panoramic views the trail offers. This area is characterized by a more humid climate, which enhances the beauty of the forest with its abundant moss and lichens. In total, we'll hike 15 km (round trip) on a low-difficulty trail that includes a river crossing and a couple of short rocky stretches.
Day 3
Today we'll face some challenges on our way to the second camp, including a couple of river crossings and a short stretch with a significant climb. However, we'll cover these 10 km at a leisurely pace, allowing ourselves to enjoy and capture with our cameras the majesty of the forests that will accompany us throughout the day. At the end of the day, we'll set up camp in a privileged location, next to relaxing hot springs, the perfect end to a day of exploration.
Day 4
Today we will travel 6.5 km to reach Puesto El Rucio, a key point where the last oak trees can be found before ascending to the lagoons the next morning. We will be sure to leave early to make the most of the light and capture the beauty of the forest. Depending on our arrival time at camp, we will also have the opportunity to explore some nearby waterfalls. If we don't visit them in the afternoon, we can explore them the next morning before continuing to the lagoons.
Day 5
We'll wake up early to take advantage of the first light of dawn and, if we wish, visit El Culebrón waterfall, located 4 km (round trip) from the camp. We'll then continue to the Cuéllar Lagoons on a short, but uphill, 3 km hike. Once there, we'll have time to rest, perhaps take a dip in its crystal-clear waters, and carefully plan the best spot to capture the sunset.
Day 6
Today we'll head to the Lagunas Verdes viewpoint, a 5-km hike that, although short, presents a greater challenge. We'll begin with a steep climb, followed by steps over rocks, until we reach the viewpoint. The reward upon arrival will be a breathtaking landscape, one of those moments when the images speak for themselves. We'll arrive just in time for lunch, set up camp, and, leisurely, prepare our best compositions while we wait for sunset.
Day 7-9
The return journey begins. The first leg will take us to the hot springs, and we'll descend slowly, always allowing time to capture the best photos. Then, the second leg will take us to Monte Oscuro, where we'll be waiting to be taken to the campsite or accommodation, as agreed. There, we'll enjoy a farewell dinner. The next day, we'll be taken to Linares, from where we can return to Santiago.
* The entire itinerary is completely flexible. If you'd like more or fewer days, I can create a tailor-made experience based on your needs. Planning ahead makes everything possible. Below, I describe an alternative route that can be added to or replaced the Cuellar hot springs and lagoons tour.
Alternative route day 1
Starting from Las Animas or the hot springs. Our goal will be Bajo de las Lastimas, 22 km away. We'll try to get as close as possible. Any place before we reach it offers good photo opportunities, so either way, we can continue and arrive early the next morning.
Alternative route day 2
We will continue for a couple of kilometers until we reach Bajo de las Lastimas where we will set up camp. It will be a quiet day with plenty of time to explore the surroundings. At sunset, we can climb to the Añitunes lagoon, just 1 km from the camp. The entire area is full of photographic opportunities that will keep us entertained.
Alternative route day 3
For early risers, there's the option to enjoy the sunrise from Añitunes Lagoon or take a hike near the camp to take advantage of the first light. We'll then have breakfast and begin the ascent to our camp near Achibueno Lagoon, located 3 km away. There, we'll enjoy the sunset from our chosen viewpoints.
Alternative route - days 4 to 6
We begin our return trip. Over the next two days, we'll travel the 30 km between Laguna Achibueno and Monte Oscuro. On the fifth day of the route, we'll arrive at Monte Oscuro, where a group of people will be waiting to transfer us to our lodging or campsite. There, we'll enjoy a farewell dinner. The next morning, we'll be taken to the Linares bus terminal, from where we can begin our return trip to Santiago.
Itineraries and base values:
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3 days - 26 km - Monte Oscuro - Las Animas - Monte Oscuro. $1.250 usd for 1 person / $950 usd for person for 2 or more people
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8 days - 62 km - M. Oscuro - Las Animas - Laguna Achibueno - M. Oscuro. $1.800 usd for 1 person / $1.500 usd for person for 2 or more people
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9 days - 86 km - M. Oscuro - Las Animas - Lagunas Cuellar y Verdes - M. Oscuro. $1.900 usd for 1 person / $1.600 usd for person for 2 or more people
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15 days - 130 km - Full Expedition. $2.550 usd for 1 person / $2.250 usd for person for 2 or more people
Service includes
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Photographer and guide Mathew Riegel .
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Professional transportation service, Santiago airport - Achibueno - Santiago airport.
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Lunch on the first and last day.
Optional services
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Luggage transport with mules, $100 usd per day.
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Meal management for the entire expedition and mountain equipment management. Consult prices according to requirements.
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Accommodation for the first and last day if necessary.
what to bring
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Photographic equipment, digital camera and/or smartphone, tripod.
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Windbreaker, vest, base layer (expected temperatures 1-25°C).
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Sneakers or trekking shoes.
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Flashlight.
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Backpack 65L to 90L.
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Walking sticks.
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Gloves.
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Sun hat.
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Sunglasses.
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Sun Blocker.
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1.5 liter bottle.
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Sleeping bag.
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Tent.
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Food and cooking equipment for every day.
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If required, a bag or backpack to leave whatever the porter will carry with the mules (tent, sleeping bag, change of clothes, etc.)