PUMAS
IN TORRES DEL PAINE

WITH PHOTOGRAPHER MATTIAS KLUM

PUMAS IN TORRES DEL PAINE

WITH PHOTOGRAPHER MATTIAS KLUM

COUNYTY: Chile   PHOTOTYPE: Wildlife  LENGTH: 12 days  DATES: May 2-13 2027  NO. OF PARTICIPANTS: 9-12

Torres del Paine is one of the most beautiful national parks in the world. Add to that its large population of pumas
– which you can often get remarkably close to – and you have an unbeatable combination.

Mattias Klum

This unique photography expedition takes you to the heart of Patagonia, on the border between Chile and Argentina. Here, among vast open plains, turquoise lakes, and dramatic granite peaks, lives the puma — a predator that has become a symbol of the South American wilderness

As a photographer, filmmaker, and storyteller for National Geographic and others, I have spent decades capturing both the beauty and the fragility of nature. Torres del Paine is one of those places on Earth where this contrast becomes especially clear. Here, iconic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and one of the world’s strongest populations of pumas come together.

Together with me and experienced puma trackers, we set out on foot to experience and photograph these magnificent cats in their natural environment. Our goal is not only to capture extraordinary images, but also to understand the delicate balance between predator, prey, and ecosystem. It is through these encounters that we gain deeper insight into why sustainability is essential.

Beyond the puma, we’ll encounter the park’s rich variety of wildlife — elegant guanacos, ostrich-like ñandús, clever foxes, and the mighty condor soaring above the peaks of the Andes.

We’ll also devote time to photographing the area’s unique natural features: ancient Nothofagus forests, dramatic mountain formations, and the Grey Glacier, where blue icebergs stand as striking evidence of climate change.

Throughout the journey, you will grow as a photographer, find inspiration in nature, and reflect on our shared responsibility for the future.

SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Photograph pumas up close – with several likely opportunities during the journey to encounter this mythical predator in its natural habitat.
  • Meet Patagonia’s wild inhabitants – elegant guanacos, ostrich-like ñandús, the Andean fox, skunks, deer, and armadillos.

  • Experience the mighty condor at eye level – with a wingspan of more than three meters.

  • Capture iconic landscapes – the dramatic Cuernos del Paine mountains, sheer cliffs rising over 1,000 meters, and valleys filled with ancient forests.

  • Feel the power of Torres del Paine’s nature – turquoise lakes, glaciers, and vast open plains.

  • Travel in the company of Mattias Klum – one of the world’s most acclaimed photographers, sharing his passion, experience, and knowledge from decades of work for National Geographic, The New York Times, Vogue, and others.

  • Join exclusive lectures and workshops – on photography, storytelling, and sustainability, directly connected to Klum’s international work.

  • Receive personalized image reviews – with concrete advice from Mattias to help you refine and develop your own photographic voice.

COUNYTY: Chile   PHOTOTYPE: Wildlife  LENGTH: 12 days  DATES: May 2-13 2027  NO. OF PARTICIPANTS: 9-12

Torres del Paine is one of the most beautiful national parks in the world. Add to that its large population of pumas
– which you can often get remarkably close to – and you have an unbeatable combination.

Mattias Klum

This unique photography expedition takes you to the heart of Patagonia, on the border between Chile and Argentina. Here, among vast open plains, turquoise lakes, and dramatic granite peaks, lives the puma — a predator that has become a symbol of the South American wilderness

As a photographer, filmmaker, and storyteller for National Geographic and others, I have spent decades capturing both the beauty and the fragility of nature. Torres del Paine is one of those places on Earth where this contrast becomes especially clear. Here, iconic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and one of the world’s strongest populations of pumas come together.

Together with me and experienced puma trackers, we set out on foot to experience and photograph these magnificent cats in their natural environment. Our goal is not only to capture extraordinary images, but also to understand the delicate balance between predator, prey, and ecosystem. It is through these encounters that we gain deeper insight into why sustainability is essential.

Beyond the puma, we’ll encounter the park’s rich variety of wildlife — elegant guanacos, ostrich-like ñandús, clever foxes, and the mighty condor soaring above the peaks of the Andes.

We’ll also devote time to photographing the area’s unique natural features: ancient Nothofagus forests, dramatic mountain formations, and the Grey Glacier, where blue icebergs stand as striking evidence of climate change.

Throughout the journey, you will grow as a photographer, find inspiration in nature, and reflect on our shared responsibility for the future.

SOME OF THE HIGLIGHTS:

  • Photograph pumas up close – with several likely opportunities during the journey to encounter this mythical predator in its natural habitat.
  • Meet Patagonia’s wild inhabitants – elegant guanacos, ostrich-like ñandús, the Andean fox, skunks, deer, and armadillos.

  • Experience the mighty condor at eye level – with a wingspan of more than three meters.

  • Capture iconic landscapes – the dramatic Cuernos del Paine mountains, sheer cliffs rising over 1,000 meters, and valleys filled with ancient forests.

  • Feel the power of Torres del Paine’s nature – turquoise lakes, glaciers, and vast open plains.

  • Travel in the company of Mattias Klum – one of the world’s most acclaimed photographers, sharing his passion, experience, and knowledge from decades of work for National Geographic, The New York Times, Vogue, and others.

  • Join exclusive lectures and workshops – on photography, storytelling, and sustainability, directly connected to Klum’s international work.

  • Receive personalized image reviews – with concrete advice from Mattias to help you refine and develop your own photographic voice.

CHILE

CHILE

CHILE

Chile stretches over 4,200 kilometers from north to south, giving the country a remarkable diversity of climates and landscapes. In the north lies the vast Atacama Desert – the driest desert in the world – while the south offers fjords, lakes, and forests reminiscent of Scandinavia. The country is known for its strong infrastructure, stable economy, and its role as the world’s largest copper producer.
The capital, Santiago, is a modern metropolis with more than five million inhabitants.

TIERRA DEL FUEGO  

At the far south lies Tierra del Fuego – often called “the end of the world.” Here, dramatic coastlines, rugged mountains, and vast windswept plains meet. The climate is harsh and unpredictable, which makes the experience all the more unique. The largest city, Punta Arenas, serves as the gateway to Tierra del Fuego and Antarctica.

TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK

Torres del Paine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most magnificent national parks in the world. Here, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, rushing rivers, and mirror-like lakes converge.

The wildlife is abundant: pumas, guanacos, foxes, skunks, deer, armadillos, and more than 120 bird species – from parrots to condors. The Grey Glacier is one of the park’s highlights and among the largest glaciers outside the polar regions

Learn more about the destinations we’ll explore.

CHILE

Chile stretches over 4,200 kilometers from north to south, giving the country a remarkable diversity of climates and landscapes. In the north lies the vast Atacama Desert – the driest desert in the world – while the south offers fjords, lakes, and forests reminiscent of Scandinavia. The country is known for its strong infrastructure, stable economy, and its role as the world’s largest copper producer.
The capital, Santiago, is a modern metropolis with more than five million inhabitants.

ELDSLANDET – TIERRA DEL FUEGO  

At the far south lies Tierra del Fuego – often called “the end of the world.” Here, dramatic coastlines, rugged mountains, and vast windswept plains meet. The climate is harsh and unpredictable, which makes the experience all the more unique. The largest city, Punta Arenas, serves as the gateway to Tierra del Fuego and Antarctica.

TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK

Torres del Paine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most magnificent national parks in the world. Here, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, rushing rivers, and mirror-like lakes converge.
The wildlife is abundant: pumas, guanacos, foxes, skunks, deer, armadillos, and more than 120 bird species – from parrots to condors. The Grey Glacier is one of the park’s highlights and among the largest glaciers outside the polar regions.

ITINERARY

ITINERARY

MAY 2-15, 2027

Throughout the journey, Mattias Klum will be available for photographic guidance, tips, image editing, and constructive critique. He will also give lectures and share insights from his extensive National Geographic assignments in the region. The exact times for these sessions will be adjusted according to the photographic activities and daily schedule.

Day 1, (May 2) – Arrival in Punta Arenas
Check in during the day at the first-class Almasur Hotel in Punta Arenas, where you will meet Mattias Klum and a representative from Zoom Fotoresor. Punta Arenas, the capital of the Región de Magallanes y de la Antártica Chilena, is located along the Strait of Magellan. It is one of the world’s southernmost cities, with just over 100,000 inhabitants.

Since flights arrive at different times – morning, afternoon, and evening – and to allow time for adjustment, we’ll keep this evening informal, with an optional gathering in the hotel bar for those who wish.

Day 2, (May 3) – Towards Torres del Paine
After breakfast, we travel north toward Torres del Paine National Park. Along the way, we’ll have good opportunities to observe wildlife such as guanacos, pampas foxes, and Patagonian skunks, as well as experience the region’s characteristic Nothofagus forests. Naturally, we’ll make stops along the way to photograph interesting scenes.
The transfer takes about four hours. After check-in at Ovejero Patagónico Hotel, lunch will be served. In the afternoon, we’ll have our first photo session, taking advantage of the soft evening light.
In the evening, a welcome dinner awaits, during which Mattias will share stories from his previous adventures in the area and introduce the days ahead. (B, L, D)

Day 3–7, (May 4–8) – In search of pumas
Each day after breakfast, we’ll head out into the heart of the national park. Under the guidance of Mattias Klum and local puma experts, we’ll explore the landscape in search of the majestic puma.
With deep respect for the animals’ natural behavior, we’ll move quietly through the terrain, watching for tracks, movement in the vegetation, and other signs. With some luck, we’ll encounter a puma up close – a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

In addition to pumas, we’ll have great chances to photograph elegant guanacos, curious ñandús, pampas and Andean foxes, as well as skunks, deer, and armadillos. Mighty condors will often be gliding high above us.

To keep our energy up, we’ll always carry hot drinks and carefully selected snacks – a welcome pause in nature’s silence. Dinner is served at the hotel.

Day 8–9, (May 9–10) – Landscapes in focus
The dramatic contrasts of Torres del Paine make it a dream destination for landscape photographers. The sharp granite towers, often wrapped in clouds, rise like surreal sculptures toward the sky. At sunrise, they glow in shades of orange and pink – a moment that rewards patience and anticipation.

A unique challenge here is the magical Patagonian light, which can shift within minutes – from cool, muted tones to warm, golden hues. This ever-changing light makes every photo session unique, enhancing the colors and textures of the landscape. (B, L, D)

Day 10, (May 11) – Boat trip to Grey Glacier
The day begins with a boat trip on Lago Grey aboard the Grey III. The journey takes us to the majestic Grey Glacier, where a surreal world of massive icebergs awaits – glowing in shades of white, turquoise, and luminous blue.
In the background, the Paine Grande massif rises with its snow-covered peaks and dramatic cliffs. This is one of Patagonia’s most awe-inspiring settings – a place where glaciers, mountains, and ancient forests merge into a visual masterpiece. (B, L, D)

Day 11, (May 12) – Photographing condors
The day begins with a boat trip on Lago Grey aboard the Grey III. The journey takes us to the majestic Grey Glacier, where a surreal world of massive icebergs awaits – glowing in shades of white, turquoise, and luminous blue.

In the background, the Paine Grande massif rises with its snow-covered peaks and dramatic cliffs. This is one of Patagonia’s most awe-inspiring settings – a place where glaciers, mountains, and ancient forests merge into a visual masterpiece. (B, L, D)

Day 12, (May 13) – Departure
After breakfast and check-out, transfer on your own to Punta Arenas Airport for your return flight to Europe. (B)

A 12 days itinerary filled with amazing photo

MAY 2-15, 2027

Throughout the journey, Mattias Klum will be available for photographic guidance, tips, image editing, and constructive critique. He will also give lectures and share insights from his extensive National Geographic assignments in the region.

The exact times for these sessions will be adjusted according to the photographic activities and daily schedule.

Day 1, (May 2) – Arrival in Punta Arenas
Check in during the day at the first-class Almasur Hotel in Punta Arenas, where you will meet Mattias Klum and a representative from Zoom Fotoresor. Punta Arenas, the capital of the Región de Magallanes y de la Antártica Chilena, is located along the Strait of Magellan. It is one of the world’s southernmost cities, with just over 100,000 inhabitants.

Since flights arrive at different times – morning, afternoon, and evening – and to allow time for adjustment, we’ll keep this evening informal, with an optional gathering in the hotel bar for those who wish.

Day 2, (May 3) – Towards Torres del Paine
After breakfast, we travel north toward Torres del Paine National Park. Along the way, we’ll have good opportunities to observe wildlife such as guanacos, pampas foxes, and Patagonian skunks, as well as experience the region’s characteristic Nothofagus forests. Naturally, we’ll make stops along the way to photograph interesting scenes.

The transfer takes about four hours. After check-in at Ovejero Patagónico Hotel, lunch will be served. In the afternoon, we’ll have our first photo session, taking advantage of the soft evening light.

In the evening, a welcome dinner awaits, during which Mattias will share stories from his previous adventures in the area and introduce the days ahead. (B, L, D)

Day 3-7, (May 4-8) – In search of pumas
Each day after breakfast, we’ll head out into the heart of the national park. Under the guidance of Mattias Klum and local puma experts, we’ll explore the landscape in search of the majestic puma.
With deep respect for the animals’ natural behavior, we’ll move quietly through the terrain, watching for tracks, movement in the vegetation, and other signs. With some luck, we’ll encounter a puma up close – a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

In addition to pumas, we’ll have great chances to photograph elegant guanacos, curious ñandús, pampas and Andean foxes, as well as skunks, deer, and armadillos. Mighty condors will often be gliding high above us.
To keep our energy up, we’ll always carry hot drinks and carefully selected snacks – a welcome pause in nature’s silence. Dinner is served at the hotel. (B, L, D)

Day 8-9, (May 9-10) – Landscapes in focus
The dramatic contrasts of Torres del Paine make it a dream destination for landscape photographers. The sharp granite towers, often wrapped in clouds, rise like surreal sculptures toward the sky. At sunrise, they glow in shades of orange and pink – a moment that rewards patience and anticipation.

A unique challenge here is the magical Patagonian light, which can shift within minutes – from cool, muted tones to warm, golden hues. This ever-changing light makes every photo session unique, enhancing the colors and textures of the landscape.
(B, L, D)

Day 10, (May 11) – Boat trip to Grey Glacier
The day begins with a boat trip on Lago Grey aboard the Grey III. The journey takes us to the majestic Grey Glacier, where a surreal world of massive icebergs awaits – glowing in shades of white, turquoise, and luminous blue. In the background, the Paine Grande massif rises with its snow-covered peaks and dramatic cliffs. This is one of Patagonia’s most awe-inspiring settings – a place where glaciers, mountains, and ancient forests merge into a visual masterpiece. (B, L, D)

Day 11, (May 12) – Photographing condors
After breakfast and check-out, we travel to Estancia Olga Teresa, arriving around lunchtime. We’ll enjoy an outdoor lunch and receive an introduction to the condor and the ranch. This location is home to the largest colony in Chilean Patagonia, with around 60–80 condors year-round.

We’ll then continue to Cerro Palomares – a 20-meter-high vertical cliff embedded in a 200-meter hill. This is one of the world’s most accessible places to photograph condors, where you can almost meet them at “eye level” as they soar along the rock face.

In the late afternoon, we return to Punta Arenas and the Almasur Hotel. The day concludes with a farewell dinner at the charming restaurant La Luna, where we’ll also select the best photo of the trip. (B, L, D)

Day 12, (May 13) – Departure
Breakfast followed by check-out and individual transfer to Punta Arenas Airport. Return flights to Europe are arranged independently. (B)

PHOTOGTRAPHER

PHOTOGRAPHER

MATTIAS KLUM – Nat Geo Photographer

Mattias Klum is a Nat Geo photographer, cinematographer and director. In an artistic way that is entirely his own, he describes and portrays animals, plants and natural and cultural settings in the form of articles, books, films and exhibitions. Since 1997, Mattias has produced multiple articles and thirteen cover stories for National Geographic magazine. He has produced 9 film projects and published 14 books to date.

Klum is also an internationally sought-after lecturer and has given more than 3000 lectures worldwide. His photographs have been shown in one-man exhibitions at renowned museums and art galleries all around the world. He has been named a Young Global Leader of the World Economic Forum, awarded an honorary Doctorate in Natural Sciences by Stockholm University, appointed Fellow at the National Geographic Society, goodwill ambassador for IUCN and WWF and serves as a member of the Board of Trustees at WWF Sweden.

https://mattiasklum.com/

Read more about National Geographic photographer Mattias Klum

MATTIAS KLUM – Nat Geo Photographer 

Mattias Klum is a Nat Geo photographer, cinematographer and director. In an artistic way that is entirely his own, he describes and portrays animals, plants and natural and cultural settings in the form of articles, books, films and exhibitions. Since 1997, Mattias has produced multiple articles and thirteen cover stories for National Geographic magazine. He has produced 9 film projects and published 14 books to date.

Klum is also an internationally sought-after lecturer and has given more than 3000 lectures worldwide. His photographs have been shown in one-man exhibitions at renowned museums and art galleries all around the world. He has been named a Young Global Leader of the World Economic Forum, awarded an honorary Doctorate in Natural Sciences by Stockholm University, appointed Fellow at the National Geographic Society, goodwill ambassador for IUCN and WWF and serves as a member of the Board of Trustees at WWF Sweden.

https://mattiasklum.com/

HOTELS

HOTELS

PRICE, FACTS & BOOKING

PRICE, FACTS & BOOKING

Price per person: USD 9.950

Price includes:

  • Accommodation in shared double room at the listed hotels.
  • Meals according to the program (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner).
  • Bus transfers as per itinerary.
  • Photo walks during the day as outlined in the program
  • Various entrance fees.
  • Park fees.
  • Boat trip.
  • Condor photography session.
  • Participation of Mattias Klum throughout the entire journey.
  • Lectures and image reviews led by Mattias Klum.
  • Local guides on site.
  • Puma trackers.
  • Hotel and other local taxes.
  • Travel information provided before departure.

Price does not include: 

  • Flights to and from Punta Arenas.
  • Single room supplement: USD 1.500.
  • Tips for the main guide and puma trackers, approximately USD 10–15 per person per day.
  • Personal expenses such as alcoholic beverages, etc.
  • Cancellation protection/travel insurance – for more information, see our website under “Other Information.”

    FLIGHTS

    For flights, you should plan to arrive in Punta Arenas at any time on May 2. The return flight can be booked at any time on May 13. Once the minimum number of participants has been reached, we will send out suggested flight options.

    We recommend arriving in Punta Arenas a day before the program starts, as it is a long journey with several hours of time difference, and flight delays may occur. If you wish to stay on after the trip, this is also possible.

    If you would like assistance with booking flights or extra hotel nights, we are more than happy to help. You are welcome to call us at +46 470 466 40, email us at info@zoomphototours.com, or mention this when making your booking.

    FACTS 

    Target group: Photographers interested in developing their skills in landscape, wildlife, and nature photography.

    Minimum/maximum number of participants: 9/12

    Other information: For more details about Zoom Fotoresor, terms and conditions, etc., please visit our website under “Other Information.”

    PHOTOEQUPIMENT

    • Your camera.
    • A standard zoom lens from 24 up to 200 mm for landscape photography.
    • A telephoto lens up to 500/600 mm for wildlife and nature photography.
    • A monopod or tripod.
    • Memory cards and a card reader.
    • Extra batteries and charger.
    • A cleaning kit for your camera and lenses.
    • A laptop with either Photoshop CS or Lightroom installed.

    BOOKNING 

    To book your spot, simply click the button below. You’re also welcome to contact us by phone at +46 470 466 40 or by email at info@zoomphototours.com

    Photo: Mattias Klum och Santiago Sainz-Trápaga och Santiago Cicotti