Discover the glaciers
through Beagle Channel Navigation, learn about its history and its great beauty.
Glacier Tour and Lunch at the World’s Southernmost Steakhouse
Picture this: you’re staying at Errante Ecolodge on Navarino Island, located deep in stunning Chilean Patagonia. We’ll take you on a journey you’ll never forget, with breathtaking views, exciting glacier encounters, and a unique lunch experience at the world’s southernmost steakhouse. Here’s a sneak preview of what to expect!
Your adventure begins with a trip from Errante Ecolodge to Puerto Williams, where a boat awaits. From there, we’ll sail through the Beagle Channel, one of the world’s most scenic waterways, to get up close to two gigantic glaciers that call this remote corner of the planet home: the Italia Glacier and the Holanda Glacier. These glaciers, named after 19th-century European explorers, are part of Alberto de Agostini National Park, Chile’s third largest national park, and are within the Cape Horn Biosphere Reserve, declared by UNESCO as one of the 24 most pristine ecoregions on the planet.
A Hike to the Holanda Glacier: Beauty Beyond Words
After marveling at the Italia Glacier, we return to the boat, pass through waters with newly formed icebergs drifting by, and head toward the Holanda Glacier, another dazzling icy spectacle.
The boat lands on a nearby sandy shore. A short hike along a narrow trail takes you to a grassy peak from where you can enjoy fantastic views of the Holanda Glacier and its surroundings. Feel the power of nature as you contemplate the wetlands, glacial meltwater lagoons, and the awe-inspiring wilderness. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect and experience the pure, untouched beauty of Patagonia.
Italia Glacier: A Glacier That Feels Alive
First stop: the Italia Glacier, named after the Italian mountaineers who were the first to explore this icy wonder. This tidewater glacier moves southwest and reaches all the way to the Beagle Channel. In winter, it remains shrouded in darkness, completely shielded from direct sunlight, which helps, in part, preserve its size despite its continued shrinkage due to climate change. It’s a majestic and breathtaking sight.
When you visit the Italia Glacier, you won’t just see it from afar. Jorge, the local owner and guide, will give you a rare and intimate experience with this giant blue ice formation. As you approach, if the water is clear, the boat stops and you can step down to the rocky shores, getting so close that you can hear the glacier creaking and groaning, as if the ice were alive and breathing. Watch in awe as huge chunks of ice break off, tumble down the face of the glacier, and plunge into the water with resounding roars. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
Lunch at the World’s Southernmost Steakhouse: A True Taste of Patagonia
After your glacial adventure, you’ll be treated to something special: a home-cooked meal at the world’s southernmost steakhouse: Kanazawa, located on a remote island. We land on a rocky shore and are greeted by the friendly local family of Eugenio, Ester, and their son Claudio, the only inhabitants of this small island.
Step into their cozy wooden house, where a crackling fire and a glass of red wine await you. As you relax by the fire, you’ll hear stories about island life, how they built their self-sufficient home, and what it’s like to live in such a wild and remote corner of the world. You’ll be served fresh bruschetta on homemade bread—a perfect start to the feast.
But it’s the next part that will truly get your mouth watering: lamb roasted over an open fire, potatoes, and a fresh salad, all served with love and warmth. You’ll feel the connection between the food and the land as you discover what it takes for the family to survive here. You’ll notice they even grow their own produce in a small greenhouse and make sheepskin rugs from their own sheep. It’s a complete experience that leaves you feeling fulfilled, both in body and soul.