Laura McAfoos
I am originally from the USA, but have been living in Puerto Natales, Chile for the last 12 years. I have been helping people visit Torres del Paine since 2008 and love the park as though it is my home. During my time in Chile, I have traveled around getting to know other parts of the country and the southern part of the South American continent. Now that I have spent time exploring this part of the world, I am happy to plan an itinerary through the best parts of it for all of you!
What places and activities do you specialize in?
"We specialize in trips in and around Torres del Paine National Park as well as throughout most all of Patagonia!
I can arrange any of the standard hikes in Patagonia to more exclusive and off-trail routes in some of the most wild and remote parts of Patagonia. Apart from hiking I am happy to fill your days with kayaking, horse riding, mountain biking, etc. We love to design complex multi-activity itineraries in all parts of Patagonia in both Chile and Argentina.
Adventure, adventure, adventure!"
How did you get involved in travel?
"I fell in love with traveling before finishing high school... My first trip out of the country was to France during my Junior year in high school. After that I began planning more trips out of the country, during university I did an exchange program to spend some time in the UK and finally after finishing university I left for South America. I love getting to know new places and cultures."
Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.
"Tubing down a cold river in Columbia with knee pads and a helmet hoping I would making it to the bottom alright!!"
Featured trips & expertise
Torres del Paine National Park: Self-Guided "W" Trek - 7 Days
Conquer Chile's famous "W Circuit" trek on this 7-day self-guided excursion for experienced hikers and the adventurous at heart. Starting in the trekker's paradise of Puerto Natales, you'll set out into Torres del Paine National Park, following the w-shaped route through some of Chilean Patagonia's most spectacular scenery. Pass towering mountains, vast glaciers, and turquoise lakes as you hike the rugged and rewarding 35 miles (56 km) to the base of the magnificent Glacier Grey.
Patagonia Winter Adventure: Ushuaia & Tierra del Fuego - 6 Days
Experience winter at the end of the world on this 6-day guided Patagonian adventure. With the southernmost city of Ushuaia as your base, you'll set out to explore the otherworldly landscapes of the spectacular Tierra del Fuego. Trek to icy lakes, hike through ancient forests, and try your hand at skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling against the magnificent backdrop of the Andes Mountains.
2 Weeks in Patagonia - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
With two weeks in Patagonia, you could stick to one side—Argentine or Chilean—or visit both. On these four unique itineraries, you'll trek on glaciers, see penguins in the wild, dine on fresh seafood in the southernmost city in the world, camp under the stars, and hike in South America's finest national park.
10 Days in Patagonia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
Patagonia stretches over a million square kilometers, but you'd be surprised at how much you can cover in just 10 days. Embark on a highlights tour, visiting the most famous places in Torres del Paine and Los Glaciares National Parks. Or plan a ski holiday on the powdery slopes near San Carlos de Bariloche, in Argentina’s Lake District. Learn about your best options with our roundup below.
Patagonia in December: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
The transition from spring to summer is a spectacular time to visit Patagonia with plenty of sunshine for enjoying the great outdoors. Plus, the first half of the month is still quiet—in other words, get here before the tour groups arrive for the holidays. Find out what to do and where to go with this December guide.
Patagonia in November: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
With springtime blooms, November is a beautiful month in Patagonia—arguably the best of the year. If that's not enough, you can visit popular sites and national parks while the crowds and high prices are still a month away. Read this monthly guide to learn more.
Recent trip reviews for Laura
Made it easy to do a bit more of an adventure... · Patagonia - Mar 2 - Mar 12, 2020
Made it easy to do a bit more of an adventure than the normal vacation.
Patagonia Trip · Patagonia - Dec 23 - Jan 5, 2020
We enjoyed all our time in Argentina and Chile. The itinerary was super detailed and we experienced no issues during the trip. The local guides and hotels were all great.
Chris, I am so happy to hear that you all had a great time!