This New Argentine Lodge Offers Unparalleled Views of Patagonia.

Guests at the upcoming Explora El Chaltén will have the opportunity to snap stunning (and envious) images of the snow-capped peaks of Patagonia's Los Huemules Natural Reserve from the comfort of one of twenty suites—all without leaving their lodgings. 

I don't think they'll be content to remain inside. The new lodge is set to open in October and will be located on a privately held parcel of land that is over 14,000 acres. Guests will have access to hiking paths, rock climbing routes, and expeditions to neighboring glaciers. (They even provide ice climbing during certain seasons.) Within Los Huemules, guests have access to fifteen miles of defined trails; nearby, at the Chilean border and in Glaciers National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, guests can find trails leading to massive ice floes. One of the most spectacular sights in all of South America, without a question. 

Delves into El Chaltén is one of seven Explora resorts in Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina that follow this model: The majority of activities, including lodging, meals, and drinks, are part of the all-inclusive package, so there's no need to worry about paying extra for select excursions. "A full-day exploration to Perito Moreno Glacier in El Calafate. [Which] includes transfers, time spent with gauchos, lunch, and navigating by vessel in front of the Perito Moreno glacier, all in the company of an expert guide," Explora says of one of the available expeditions at El Chaltén that costs extra. In general, the emphasis is on the activities outside the lodge rather than its facilities, and on protecting this delicate ecosystem. 

"The preservation of the places where we do business has always been the starting point for Explora's evolution," remarks Juan Marambio, sustainability manager for the branding. Explora has a substantial interest in the Los Huemules Natural Reserve, which is home to our newest El Chaltén hotel. The 5,800-hectare property is set aside for the exclusive purpose of protecting the region's cultural and environmental history. 

Marambio states that this encompasses the building process. Explora took down every tree on the construction site and planted new ones in a different part of the reserve. With most of the building components made in close proximity to the site, the construction process is very non-invasive. Explora, of course, uses very little plastic. Last but not least, the company's signature explorations form the basis of our travel philosophy. 

However, it would be remiss not to highlight the lodge itself. According to Explora, "the classical style of ancient Patagonian estancias" will be the architectural style chosen for the property. Picture windows showcase the breathtaking surroundings of this region of southern Argentina, and the renderings have a lot of dark accents and blonde wood. The lodge will feature 17 guestrooms and 3 suites, all with Jacuzzi tubs. Guests can bring their little ones, since there will be cribs and rollaway beds available. In addition to a full-service restaurant serving Argentinean cuisine, there is a spa that spans 1,300 square feet, a bar, and other facilities.