What to do in Chilean Patagonia

You really can’t go wrong with a classic African safari, be it on the plains of the Serengeti or off-piste in Zimbabwe. But what if we were to tell you that you could clamber to the top of Africa’s highest mountain, Kilimanjaro; join a private expedition in the deserts of Chad; or even trek gorillas and sleep on the rim of a volcano in the DRC? If afternoon siestas are not your bag, have a look at some of our adventure itineraries, guaranteed to satisfy even the most intrepid travellers.

If you think you’ve done and seen it all, then how about swapping four wheels for four legs, and booking a horseback expedition through some of the world’s wildest places? Whether you’re an experienced equestrian or a nervous-but-keen beginner, there’s a riding experience out there for you. Of course, Africa is always at the top of our list for the sheer beauty of its landscapes but there is a myriad of other glorious spaces to explore from the pampas of Patagonia to the deserts of India. All that’s left to say is, giddy-up!

The thrill of catching a glimpse of a swishing tail or the flash of an eye, knowing you’re the first human they have seen in a while – or for the very first time - is a truly unforgettable moment. One moment, you’re scanning the horizon, and the next, an elephant ambles into view or a monkey swings overhead. It might be a whale breaching off the coast, or a pangolin scurrying across the sand, but whatever it is, it’s real, and it’s unforgettable. At Timbuktu, we’ll get you to the right place at the right time for the best wildlife encounters - you just need to have your binoculars at the ready.

Is there a better way to get a feel for a new destination than exploring on foot? We think not! Walking (or hiking) offers the chance to venture off the beaten track and enjoy sights the likes of which you might not normally see. From trekking along the Inca Trail towards Peru’s Machu Picchu to wandering beneath the spires of Torres del Paine, roaming between Berber villages in the Atlas Mountains or hiking up the iconic Table Mountain, the adventure never stops when you’ve laced up your boots and left the crowds behind.

While we’re advocates for some good R&R, we also believe in adding some adventure to any trip. Across our multitude of destinations, there is always the opportunity to get ‘active’ and explore on foot, bicycle, horse or camelback, hot air balloon or microlight (and many more). From treks through Chilean Patagonia to walking safaris in Zambia, kitesurfing in Zanzibar to canoeing around Halong Bay, there is an endless array of activities to dive into.