Darwin Experience: Kayaks & Adventure

Start your morning with a 4×4 ride departing at 9:00 AM from El Calafate along Route 40 toward the Charles Furh region. Once at the river’s edge, you’ll be outfitted in dry suits, life vests, boots, and gloves, and briefed on kayaking technique and safety. Then commence a 15 km kayaking route downstream on the Santa Cruz River, passing through scenic stretches of Patagonian steppe, geological formations, and wildlife habitats. The paddle lasts about 80–90 minutes. Upon arrival you’ll reach Estancia El Rincón, where a riverside lunch awaits, with a menu of focaccia, provoleta, Creole-style steak, salads and dessert. After enjoying the meal and relaxing, you’ll be transported back to El Calafate by 4×4, arriving in the early afternoon (~3:00 PM).

Non-kayakers may join the group, riding in the 4×4 and meeting the paddlers at the estancia for lunch.

At 9:00 AM, your guide and vehicle will pick you up from your hotel in El Calafate and begin the journey along Route 40 toward the Charles Furh region (about 40 km). On arrival, you’ll unload the kayaks and gear, don your equipment, and receive a technical briefing and safety demonstration.

Once ready, you’ll embark downstream for around 15 km of paddling on the Santa Cruz River over the course of 80–90 minutes. Along the way, the guide will point out geological formations, the local flora and fauna, and stories tied to Darwin’s journey.

Your destination is Estancia El Rincón, where you’ll leave the kayaks and sit down for a full lunch by the riverside. The menu typically includes focaccia with eggplant dip, provoleta, seasoned steak, salads, and chocolate mousse, along with drinks.

After enjoying lunch and relaxing by the river, you’ll board the 4×4 for the return drive to El Calafate, arriving approximately around 3:00 PM in the early afternoon.