Cris has been part of the EcoCamp team working as Assistant Head of Guides. His journey as a guide began in his hometown of Valparaíso, where he first discovered his passion for leading and connecting with travelers. In this article, you will get to know Cris, his story of becoming a guide, his favorite excursions, and his top recommendations for guests visiting Patagonia for the first time, and staying at EcoCamp.
What inspired you to become a guide, and what do you love about your job?
“I’ll be as honest as possible—I didn’t study anything related to tourism. My profession is in translation and interpreting, specifically Spanish–English. However, I believe that, in some way, even if not directly, both translation and tourism are about the same thing: sharing knowledge and conveying thoughts and emotions.
I studied translation because I wanted to be a bridge between Spanish and English speakers. Now, as a guide, I do something similar—being a bridge between visitors and the place I know and love. My first guiding job was back in 2015, when a friend asked me to show Valparaíso, my hometown, to a group of tourists. Since then, the idea of showing a place as someone who loves and lives it has stayed with me. That’s also what I do now in Torres del Paine, which has been my home for the past six years. It’s my home away from home, and I love showing it with care and passion”.
What’s your number one advice for visitors traveling to Torres del Paine?
“Know where you're going. Read about the place. Even having a basic idea of the terrain and the conditions is essential. I've seen people showing up for hikes in high heels or sandals, which can be dangerous in a remote place like this. An injury here is not the same as in a city. Respect the mountains. This may be a well-known park now, but it’s still wild”.
What should guests know before arriving at EcoCamp?
Unlike a traditional hotel, EcoCamp is about connection with nature and people. There’s no Wi-Fi, which is part of the experience. It’s a chance to disconnect from screens and reconnect with yourself. The domes are unique and beautiful, and yes, they can creak a bit when it's windy, but that’s part of the charm.
EcoCamp also encourages the community. You’ll likely eat breakfast and dinner with the same people you hiked with during the day. You’ll meet people from around the world, share stories, and build lasting connections. It’s not a place for total privacy or luxury in the traditional sense, but if you come with an open heart, it can be incredibly special.
What is your most memorable moment while guiding for EcoCamp?
“One of my most memorable experiences was my first Epic Multisport program at EcoCamp. The Epic includes four excursions: horseback riding, biking, kayaking on the Grey River, and finishing with the hike to the base of the Towers. Why do I remember it so clearly? Because it's a moment when you and the people are united throughout—it's the same group with the same guide for four days. That creates a bond. The Base of the Towers is a difficult hike, and for someone who’s not prepared, it’s even harder. So at the end of an Epic, there are always a few hugs, maybe even a tear or two. It’s really beautiful to build that kind of bond with people you’ve been waking up early with, having breakfast, going on excursions, then sharing a welcome drink, dinner, and then ending up crying together. So I think it’s really special to spend time with people over those four days—it feels ideal to me. It’s a shared journey, and I still talk to some people from that group.”
What’s the most common mistake you see travelers make?
“Carrying way too much. People often pack heavy backpacks full of things they don’t need—multiple changes of clothes, extra shoes, even hairdryers. A heavier pack makes a big difference, especially on hikes like Base Torres or the French Valley. Even just one extra kilo can matter. Plus, here at EcoCamp, you carry your own lunchbox, so it adds up. Traveling light is key—to protect your back and to enjoy the trail”.
Not sure what to bring? See our packing list of what to bring to Patagonia
Do you have a favorite activity in the Wildlife Safari program?
“Yes, the Lazo–Weber trail. It’s about 15 km, so you spend hours surrounded by nature, often with no one else around. Unlike crowded trails like the Cuernos lookout, this one retains its mystical vibe. It has incredible views—especially the Toro Lookout, which I honestly believe is the best viewpoint in the entire park. You can see all the major lakes, and you’ll likely spot wildlife: guanacos, foxes, rheas, armadillos, condors—you name it”.
See all the options we have in our Wildlife Safari program here
.jpg?width=893&height=594&name=Lazo%20Weber%20%20(29%20of%201).jpg)
What's your favorite activity from the Epic Multisport program?
“It’s hard to choose, but Base Torres really crowns the experience. All the activities—kayaking, biking, horseback riding—are amazing. But ending the journey at the base of the Towers after several adventurous days makes sense. That’s probably why it’s called “Epic.”
Read about the other activities of our Epic Patagonia program here
What’s something you always carry in your backpack on long or multi-day hikes?
“A first aid kit—always. I hope I never need it, but it’s a must. Things like blister patches, Band-Aids, and basic meds. Water, too—can’t go without it. I often carry hot water as well for tea, coffee, or mate. Depending on the conditions, I might bring extra socks or even a second jacket if rain is likely. And as a bit of a nerd, I also carry my field guides. That said, every item adds weight, so you have to prioritize—but my first aid kit always comes first”.
What would you recommend as an alternative to the Base Torres Trek?
We know the Base of the Towers trek can be too much for many people, especially if you have knee or hip issues. We therefore asked Cris what he would recommend to people as an alternative if they cannot hike the Base of the Towers, or French Valley, both of which are demanding day hikes.
“First, it's important to remember: Torres del Paine is much more than just the Towers. Not being able to do the Base hike doesn’t mean you’re missing the park. It’s huge—almost 200,000 hectares—with so much to explore.
Laguna Azul is a great spot for views of the Towers without the strenuous hike, especially at sunrise or sunset. Another option is a short, relatively flat walk on the way to Serón, which gives you a beautiful panoramic view of all three towers in just three hours”.
Thank you, Cris—we appreciate you sharing your story and personal insights.
Would you be interested in experiencing EcoCamp and Torres del Paine with us? Send us an e-mail, and we will help plan your next adventure! Reservations@cascada.travel
