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Why YAK EXPEDICIONES
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Testimonies
Testimonies
YAK EXPEDICIONES has years of experience running rivers in rafts
and kayaks in addition to sea kayaking courses and trips throughout
Chile. But... who else could recommend YAK EXPEDICIONES
better than a satisfied client?
Our Clients Opinions
We took a 6 day sea kayaking trip in Northern Pumalin last January. The guide service we had was great and I think their approach would fit well with your people who are interested in independent travel – but are realistic about the logistical and physical challenges of kayaking in this region. They are diligent about safety yet you really get a ‘real' adventure with all its beauty, surprises, and reward for effort. This is a beautiful area where the environment and culture are under great stress. YAK is very responsible in supporting both the local people and nature. We got a real understanding of the environmental threats and the challenges facing the local communities, while experiencing amazing natural beauty ‘where the road ends' (literally) under our own power.
Katrina Smith Korfmacher, PhD Assistant Professor of Environmental Medicine
Northern Patagonia Fjords
February 2009
......................................................................................
My brother and I did the kayak trip in Todos los Santos Lake near Puerto Varas, Chile with Yak Expediciones. This trip was truly a once in a lifetime experience with breath-taking views while kayaking among multiple volcanoes right at the base of the Osorno volcano. The quality of service provided by our personal guide (Juanfe) was truly remarkable. He was very familiar with the area, and was a great teacher as to the proper and safe techniques of kayaking. He was in control at all times, and we received personal attention throughout the trip. We had never kayaked before, and although it proved challenging, the effort was well worth it. After a day of rowing, we set up camp, ate dinner (excellent meals prepared by our guide), and were more than ready for early bed. The next day we awoke to the sound of roosters, and began our trek back to base through a beautiful morning fog. Our guide was very careful that we came out with everything we went in with; a very eco-friendly trip. The value we received from this trip was second-to-none. I would recommend this trip to anyone who is willing to put in the sweat to see views that very few on this planet can say they have seen.
Adam Stoffel
Todos Los Santos Lake
September 2009
......................................................................................
Juanfe:
En primer lugar quiero agradecer tus enseñanzas, el envío
de las fotos, de la información del trekking en Navarino
y la entrega del material olvidado en el bolsillo del salvavidas.
Tu profesionalismo es destacable, sin duda.
Héctor Rocco
Cirujano Plástico - Miembro Directorio de la Sociedad Chilena
de Cirugía Plástica.
Chile - Curso de Kayak de Mar Fiordo Reloncaví /Patagonia
Norte
Junio 2009
.....................................................................................
Hola Juanfe
Quiero agradecerte de todo corazón la grata experiencia,
que sin dudas es el comienzo de mi historia de kayakista.
Estoy muy inspirada para continuar navegando de esta forma las aguas
de nuestro hermoso pais.
Gracias por todo y espero encontrarnos en alguna otra oportunidad.
Con mucho cariño, Ale Born
Alejandra Born
Médico Anestesista .
Chile - Curso de Kayak de Mar Fiordo Reloncaví /Patagonia
Norte
Junio 2009
.....................................................................................
Juanfe, Great thanks for this nice adventure !
For me this was a rare experience of full autonomy in a beautiful
nature, and a good kayak experience with serious paddling, good
equipment and total security.
Thanks for your efforts to share with us your skills and knowledge,
for your profesionalism and attitude during the trip that led to
good team spirit.
I especially enjoyed : the night outing, the colony of sea lions,
the sunrises in the fjords...
I wish you plenty of new adventures with nice people !
Un grand merci JuanFe pour cette belle aventure !
D'abord une expérience rare de sortie en autonomie dans une
nature superbe, et puis une bonne expérience de kayak tout
court, avec de bonnes étapes, un bon matériel et une
sécurité irréprochable.
Merci pour tes efforts de nous faire partager tout ça, ton
professionnalisme et pour ton attitude tout le long du voyage qui
a soudé l'équipe.
J'ai particulièrement aimé : la sortie de nuit, la
colonie de phoques, les levers de soleil au fond des fjords...
Je te souhaite plein de nouvelles aventures avec des gens sympas
!
Matthieu Lebris
Francia - Fiordos Patagonia Norte 6 days / Parque Pumalin
Abril 2009
......................................................................................
Gracias Juanfe, estos viajes son mi terapia anual, es el que me
da fuerza para enfrentar el espacio en el tiempo. Hemos quedado
todos felices y esperamos poder recibirte en pucon con tu familia.
Saludos
Daniel Marín
Chile - Fiordos Patagonia Norte 6 days / Parque Pumalin
Abril 2009
......................................................................................
Entre el 27 de Enero y el 3 de Febrero de este año con mi
familia (mi esposo y mis 3 hijos, de 20, 18 y 13 años) tuvimos
la oportunidad de conocer y recorrer en kayak de mar los fiordos
de Pumalín norte, X Región, guiados por Juanfe de
YAK Expediciones.
Fue una experiencia maravillosa por varias razones, los lugares
muy lindos, los canales de Chiloé, los volcanes con sus cumbres
nevadas, las paredes de las montañas casi verticales y la
densa vegetación colgando de esas paredes hasta tocar el
mar y entremedio las cascadas; la gente que conocimos, verdaderos
colonos establecidos en esa zona durante generaciones y que aún
viven bastante aislados del resto del país, fueron cálidos
y generosos, nos recibieron en su casa y nos compartieron sus ricas
comidas y sus vivencias cotidianas; y ...
la aventura, andar en kayak de mar fue toda una hazaña ya
que era nuestra primera vez, pero nuestro guía nos enseñó
y programó la travesía de modo que todo resultó
perfecto, aún cuando después de un día de sol
y mar calmo, a ratos aparecía el viento, a veces la lluvia
y el oleaje en contra hacía esforzarnos más, pero
todo fue parte de nuestra aventura INOLVIDABLE. El guía de
YAK Expediciones era un profesional de gran experiencia, excelente
coordinador y logró transmitirnos en esos 6 días su
amor por la naturaleza y por el deporte del kayak.
Familia Vargas Maldonado
Chile - Patagonia Fiords 6 days / Pumalin Park
February 2009
......................................................................................
Todos los Santos Lake (Puerto Varas, Chile).
Incredible trip, we took a day and went kayaking around this lake,
and experience I will never forget. Kayaking had always attracted
me, although I never had a chance to do it till now - and now I
honestly am considering taking up kayaking as a serious hobby. The
views at this lake are incredible, 99.5% unadultered lake area packed
between verdant hills with occasional views of 'lava runs' - where
lava from volano Osorno beat and burned a path to the lake itself.
Beautiful and sunny in the morning, by mid-afternoon on the return
trip a light mist had begun to cover the tops of some of the hills,
giving the area an almost mystical feel. Unbelievable. We went with
a hired tour operator, one apparently very knowledgeable in kayaking
from his credentials. By the end of the one-day trip my wife and
I felt like we'd known Juan Federico a long time. He really made
the trip that much better, giving a feel of familiarity and friendship
to the experience. (It's not minor in my mind, either, that he wouldn't
accept a tip; you realize why one does what he does when that happens,
especially here in Chile). Incredible experience. Highly recommended.
Thanks guys
Mark Jackson
USA- Todos Los Santos Lake
February 2009
......................................................................................
Llegamos ayer de vacaciones con Gisela, te cuanto que conversando
con GISELA llegamos a la conclusión de que el viaje a pumalin
fue una maravillosa experiencia de vida y si dios quiere el próximo
año lo haremos de nuevo.
....tenemos que juntarnos para ver el video esta muy bueno y las
fotos , por supuesto organizar le próximo viaje , me paso
algo increíble , llegue raja y cansado físicamente
," pero a la semana me dieron unas ganas locas de repetir el
tema , es como que el cuerpo lo pide" .
Luis Gil
Chile- Northern Patagonia Fiords 6 days / Pumalin Park
February 2009
......................................................................................
Hola Juan,
Thanks a lot for the nice pictures! I hope your trips following
ours in January and February were as enjoyable as our trip!
Svenja Meierjohann
Germany - Northern Patagonia Fiords 6 days / Pumalin Park
January 2009
......................................................................................
Aún gozando de la aventura en el Reloncavi y por supuesto
pensando que alguna vez me gustaría ir hasta Pumalin contigo
y ojalá mas integrantes de mi familia. Te deseo Feliz Navidad
a tí y tu familia y un Año Nuevo fantástico
para YAK Expediciones.Saludos cordiales.
Guillermo Vivanco -Doctor
Chile - 3 days , Reloncavi Fjord
December 2008
......................................................................................
Thanks! I had an awesome time. Wouldn't have been the same without
you.
Eli Pakier
USA- Northern Patagonia Fiords 6 days / Pumalin Park
December 2008
......................................................................................
We had a great time Juanfe and thank you so much for making the
start to our holidays so wonderful. I´ll download the photos
once I get back home in about 3 weeks.
Cheers,
Mike and Sue
Michael Eberhard
CANADA - FULL Northern Patagonia Fiords 6 days / Pumalin Park
November 2008
......................................................................................
Ohh, the 4 day sea kayaking in Pumalin is just great!
We had an extreme good time and Juanfe is really a fine person.
He knows the area like his pockets and has also a large knowledge
about plants and animals. You will be on tents and Juanfe will cook
for you, so it won't be a 4-star hotel but you will be in real nature.
Naturally all depends on the weather. We had 4 splendid days full
of sunshine. But also if it rains, on two campsides you will have
the possibility of getting a hot bath. There are natural hot spirngs
which will warm you up.
I would do it again if I could...
Nicole Rähle
Switzerland - Northern Patagonia Fiords 6 days / Pumalin
Park
......................................................................................
I have no hesitation in recomending Yak expeditions to you. My
daughter Ruth and I
did a superb week sea kayaking trip with Juanfe last year - his
knowledge, preparation
and judgement is second to none - a great area to tour and a great
guy to take you.
A complete report on our trip was published in the UK magazine Canoe
Focus
(December 2007).
John and Ruth Mottram
UK - FULL Northern Patagonia Fiords 6 days / Pumalin Park
......................................................................................
The trip was on Todos los Santos Lake (Puerto Varas)- accessible
only by a dirt road through the national park. Beautiful scenery
with trees, mountains, snow, waterfalls and the Osorno volcano as
a backdrop. Juan, our guide had a good knowledge of the area and
inspired confidence on the trip. We were provided with good quality
equipment, a good packed lunch and a super day out. Highly recommended.
David Graham
USA, Todos Los Santos Lake
September 2008
......................................................................................
The trip in the Pumalins’ with YAK EXPEDICIONES was one of
the best experiences I have had. Juanfe is an intelligent guy who
really tries to match the trip to his constituents. He is a very
knowledgeable and skilled paddler who provides a safe trip while
still making it fun. You also will get the opportunity to meet ”locals”
and learn a little about their culture…… And the scenery……And
the hot springs…… Just thinking about it makes me want
to book another trip out their this winter……let me know
if you guys need more in your group…….
I travel a lot – and again this trip far surpassed most that
I have been on. (I have recently done kayak only trips in both Alaska
and Greece).
Honestly, you and your sister will love the experience.
Kate
USA- FULL Northern Patagonia Fiords 6 days / Pumalin Park
March 2008
......................................................................................
Hola Juanfe,
Supe que hoy cenarás con los españoles, mándales
muchos saludos de mi parte por favor, lo he echado mucho de menos,
es increíble como uno se siente en casa en medio de la naturaleza
y en familia con personas que no conoce.
Te quiero agradecer el viaje, estuvo perfecto, tu como siempre tan
profesional y respetuoso (sin contar las bromas acerca de cómo
se iba encogiendo el faldón... je, je), no sabes cómo
se agradece. Pero además, la naturaleza es sobrecogedora...
definitivamente este viaje me marcó como ningún otro.
Me encantó tu oficina, qué suerte tienes.
Liliana Fernánez
Chile -FULL Northern Patagonia Fiords 6 days / Pumalin Park
February 2008
......................................................................................
Hola nuevamente..Nos acordamos de que hacia un año (2008)
estabamos remando por aquellos mares de Dios,.. la verdad es, como
te comenté, fue uno de los viajes en los que mas he disfrutado,
y gran parte de ello se debe a ti, a la buena organización,
etc.
... Juanfe el placer ha sido para nosotros, lo hemos pasado estupendamente
y hemos disfrutado de una travesia que creo que nunca olvidaremos,
tanto por lo maravilloso de los paisajes por los que hemos hemos
navegado, como por la compañía que hemos tenido. He
participado en numerosas expediciones de montaña y nunca
le he tomado tanto cariño a los compañeros de viaje
como en esta travesia, y cuando hablo de compañero incluyo
a ese maravilloso y gran profesional "guia" que hemos
tenido, al que estos "españoles desordenados" hemos
considerado como un compañero mas . Espero que esta sea la
primera de muchas travesias por aquellas tierras.
Antonio J. Parera Morell
España- FULL Northern Patagonia Fiords 6 days / Pumalin Park
February 2008
......................................................................................
Casi 6 meses desde que tuve el honor de compartir una semana de
mi vida contigo, y con el resto de la familia que formamos tu viaje
a un mundo de ensueño. En mi solo albergo agradecimiento,
más allá del de un cliente. Gracias por hacerme sentir
tu amigo. Gracias por mostrarme miles de lugares mágicos.
Gracias por la luna entre el vapor de las termas de Cahuelmo. Gracias
por las montañas nevadas que nos custodiaban. Gracias por
los amaneceres en el kayak. Gracias por los lobos y las toninas.
Gracias por los verdes verticales. Gracias por las historias de
miedo en las noches de vida. Gracias por hacerme fácil mi
viaje interno. Gracias por tu familia. Gracias por permitirme sentirme
libre. Gracias por hacer de un viejo alpinista un aprendiz de navegante.
Gracias por los viejos compañeros y los nuevos amigos. Gracias
Juanfe. Se que volveré a navegar contigo, y espero con ansias
ese momento, mientras tanto, sueño con la Patagonia y remo.
“Se cierra la cocina”.
Juan F. Pérez Reyes.
Profesor de la Escuela Española de Alta Montaña.
Tenerife, España - FULL Northern Patagonia Fiords 6 days
/ Pumalin Park
February 2008
......................................................................................
Would you like to visit fjords where there is no road - no house
- no man, where snow-covered mountains touch the sea and where nature
is still virgin? Than you should definitively go for an sea-kayak
tour in Pumalin Park - Northern Patagonia Fjords. We just have been
on the six day kayaktrip with YAK EXPEDICIONES and it was an amazing,
unforgettable experience which we highly recommend.
It was not only the breath-taking scenery of the mountains which
amazed us but also the untouched and vast variety of the flora and
fauna found in this region. With a bit of luck you can paddle with
dolphins and sea lions and observe penguins. Our guide had an excellent
knowledge of the local plants, animals and the history of this region.
He could identify the birds by their cheep and told us stories about
lost treasures... At the end of the day, while the guide was preparing
an excellent dinner, we could relax our tired muscles in one of
the natural hotsprings found in the fjords.
It was a self-supported trip - you take everything you need for
the six days with you in the kayak, with no support-boats nearby
to disturb the peace and tranquillity. That means you depend on
a good qualified guide... And Juanfe (owner of YAK EXPEDICIONES)
was definitively the perfect guide for that. Not only does he knows
this region like his pockets (he knows every single sandbank in
the fjords) but he is also a very experienced kayaker with the BCU
4 Star Sea Award certification. When it comes to safety he does
not makes any compromises - safety comes always first! We could
trust him and felt very safe during the whole trip.
An additional dimension to the experience was the contact with
the "colonos", the first settlers of this region. On the
first and last day of our trip we had the chance to meet them. Thanks
to Juanfe's good and sensitive knowledge of this people we received
a very warm welcome. This gave us an idea what it means to live
in such an isolated and rural region.
If you like to do such a tour you don't need previous kayak experience
but you should be in healthy conditions, love outdoor activities
and have a good team spirit. You will find more infos on: www.yakexpediciones.cl
or phone to Juan Federico Zuazo (Juanfe) in Puerto Varas, Chile:
65-234409. His English is perfect.
Have a great trip! Marion and Nicole from Switzerland
Nicole Rähle
Switzerland - Northern Patagonia Fiords 6 days / Pumalin
Park
February 2008
......................................................................................
Estimado Juanfe:
Te queremos agradecer muy especialmente a tí y a tu familia,
todas las atenciones que nos brindastes, que van incluso más
allá de las que el curso propiamente tal brinda.
Ximena y yo hemos aprendido mucho y seguiremos practicando para
mejorar. No sabes cuanta seguridad en el actuar nos has enseñado
y por ello te reiteramos nuestros agradecimientos.
Atentamente,
Raúl Bustos y Ximena Vega
Chile, Curso de Kayak de Mar
Enero 2008
......................................................................................
Me alegre mucho que han podido armar algo. Johnny me llamó
hace unos dias, y estaba muy feliz por haber hablado contigo. Me
dijo que eres super buena persona, y el tiene mucha confianza en
ti.
Suerte en todo.
Hans Ole Rünitz-Jørgensen - TOPAS TRAVEL
Denmark - Northern Patagonia Fiords 6 days / Pumalin Park
January 2008
......................................................................................
Greetings from the UK !!!
We arrived home yesterday and have now finally managed to unpack
the cases and clear everything away....
Many many thanks for organising a wonderful expedition for us -
as you know both Ruth and I thoroughly enjoyed the sea kayaking
expedition, it was far more impressive and enjoyable than even we
expected.... most of that is due to your contribution and planning
throughout the trip, thanks again....
I have also checked the photographs, which are really impressive
and will provide a permanent reminder of a wonderful time that we
had in Chile....
Best wishes and thanks again
John and Ruth Mottram
UK - FULL Northern Patagonia Fiords 6 days / Pumalin Park
January 2007
......................................................................................
Thank you again for such a wonderful time. We will not soon forget
our adventures in Chile and we have you to thank.
Happy New Year.
Rachel and Gabe Molnar
USA - Northern Patagonia Fiords 6 days / Pumalin Park
December 2007
......................................................................................
Our family recently took a kayaking trip to the Northern Patagonia
Fiords and Pumalin Park with Yak Expediciones (www.yakexpediciones.cl)
of Puerto Varas, Chile, based on a friend’s recommendation.
The location, one of the most stunning destinations in the world,
features abundant animal life (we paddled with pods of dolphins
and sea lions, as well as countless bird species), stunning geography,
dramatic natural features like thermal hot springs and plunging
waterfalls, varied paddling conditions, and interesting locals.
YAK Expediciones provided first-rate equipment, a well-developed
itinerary, a safe paddling environment, a varied menu and a connection
to the local population in their environment. Our ten year-old daughter
paddled in a double with the guide, company owner Juan Federico
Zuazo, providing us with a very strong safety net in a remote location.
We had great confidence in his paddling skills and his depth of
experience in the area.
Our trip took place in late November and lasted six days. Highlights
of the trip included the campsites (several of which had hot springs),
the stunning waterfalls and mountain views, our interactions with
the colonos (pioneer families), and the fact that our daughter could
experience one of the planet’s natural wonders semi-independently
in a kayak.
Marcel Rodriguez, Jennifer Owen and McKinley Rodriguez
Portland, Oregon, USA - FULL Northern Patagonia Fiords 6 days
/ Pumalin Park
November 2006
......................................................................................
Hola Juan-
Thank you so much for the pictures. I had a great time on my trip.
It was fun and challenging and I learned a lot about myself and
my abilities. I really enjoyed our group and I learned a lot about
Chile and the "real" people who live there. Being out
of the water so close to the sea lions and hiking in the rainforest
and relaxing in the hot springs were my highlightsl. What lovely
kind people we met. So generous to complete strangers.
The hardest part was coming home and having to go back to an office
building where we have no open windows and fresh air. I like your
"office" much better. Thank you so much. I will never
forget my trip.You were a wonderful guide and I know you worked
very hard to make it fun and enjoyable for everyone. It made a big
difference in my life. Thank you for "opening my
eyes" to a different world and showing me my potential. Please
keep in touch.
Susan Gabrielson
U.S.A - Northern Patagonia Fiords 11 days / Pumalin Park
Febrero 2006
......................................................................................
Sea Kayaking the Northern Patagonia Fjords and Pumalin Park:
The X region of Chile is an amazing natural playground of mountains,
lakes, sea and forests. A unique way to enjoy its most pristine
qualities is to sea kyak the fjords of Northern Patagonia in the
Pumalin Park preserve (created by controversial American billionaire
Douglas Tomkins), which is only accessible from the sea.
Although the area is relatively remote and isolated, any reasonably
fit person can participate in an affordable six day self-supported
sea kyak trip led by YAK EXPEDICIONES owner and guide Juan-Fe Zuazo.
The trip and the scenery are well described on the YAK website (www.yakexpediciones.cl)
but our experience of it far exceeded our expectations. It was really
something special to be almost the only
people in a completely pristine environment of forested mountains
dropping straight into fjords (The only negative is the occasional
badly situated salmon farm). One morning we made an early start
before
dawn to avoid wind, and paddling my kyak through the phosphorescent
wake of the next kyak I thought: Goodness here I am in the pitch
dark, in a remote fjord and Northern Patagonia. I could never have
done this by myself ?.
Zuazo´s programme and leadership was seamless and professional,
successfully moulding a diverse group of individuals with varying
physical abilities, into a cohesive and motivated party that enjoyed
working together - If we were troops we would have happily followed
Zuazo into battle. The safety of the expedition was always implicit
and explicit in every action by our guide, and everyone soon fell
into the
disciplines of operating in a safe way. Adverse weather conditions
are part of the experience, but the expedition is well equipped
for this. We experienced a full day of paddling and setting up camp
in the rain.
Zuazo offered the alternative of paddling back to the base camp
with its warm farmhouse and food, but the group voted unanimously
to continue with the plan to camp in the Comau Fjord.
An additional dimension to the experience is the integration of
the trip with the local community. The isolated rural people of
the area still live a largely traditional farming and fishing lifestyle,
and the
expedition uses a local family´s farm as a base. Zuazo is
an honorary and well loved ¿son? of the family, which hosts
the group with traditional Chilean hospitality.
For me this was one the most special travelling experiences. I
would highly recommend it to anyone who loves the outdoors and is
comfortable camping.
Peter Britz
South Africa - Northern Patagonia Fiords 6 days / Pumalin Park
March 2006
......................................................................................
Thanks a lot for am amazing trip and a truely unforgettable experience.
Your were a great guide and your sense of homour made it very special.
Your words of using ´windows´and vamos will accompany
iud to New Zealand.
So don´t be surprised when you come to New Zeland to hear
these words floating around.
:-)
Stuart and Katja
New Zeland- Seakayak Exploration Northern Icefield - San Rafael
Glacier
Marzo 2006
......................................................................................
Dear Friends,
I just came back from a 6-day sea-kayak trip in the South of Chile
and I thought I needed to share my experience with you, with the
hope that others will have the opportunity of finding this very
well-kept secret!
The trip took place in the Pumalin park, just south of Puerto
Montt in Chile. The park has some of the most beautiful fiords I
have ever seen, with very steep mountains covered in dense jungle-like
forests. This was a self-sustained trip, i.e., you take everything
you need for the six days (tents, sleeping bags, clothing, food,
gear) with you in the kayaks, with no power boats near-by to disturb
the peace of the place! Also you get to paddle by dolphins and by
sea-lion colonies!!!
The organization of the trip was flawless with anextremely professional
guide, Juan Federico Zuazo. "JuanFe" has more than 20
years of sea-kayak experience around the World and knows the Chilean
fiords better than the local inhabitants there! ... in fact he knows
the local people very well, and as part of the trip we had lunches
and dinners at their homes! This is a great opportunity to have
fun, get to know gorgeous places, interact with local people, and
exercise. No previous kayaking experience is needed, but being is
decent shape is advisable (you don´t have to be trained, but
will need to paddle for a few hours a day in a relaxed, but sustained
pace).
Gerry Garbulsky
Business Consultant ,Buenos Aires – Argentina
Northern Patagonia Fiords 6 days / Pumalin Park
Febrero 2006
......................................................................................
I was reassured by the "Who we are" section of the website
since it is a good description of the company philosophy and your
extensive experience. It was wonderful to be in such a remote area,
the scenery is spectacular, and a self-supported trip gives you
both freedom to change the plans and a sense of accomplishment at
the end. We were lucky to have great weather for paddling, hiking,
and relaxing in the hot springs.
More than anything else, this trip was well organised, emphasised
safety, and was a lot of fun! . The food and wine were delicious
and I really appreciated that you and the colonos family were so
accommodating of everyone's eating preferences.
Adelene Tan
U.S.A - Northern Patagonia Fiords 6 days / Pumalin Park
February 2005
......................................................................................
I am a USAF physician working in Chile, South America on an exchange
program with the Chilean Air Force. My husband and I have been very
active with outdoor sports that take full advantage of the Chilean
climate. One of our favorite past times has been kayaking through
the many diverse regions of Chile. When we first arrived to Chile
we had very little experience with expedition kayaking so we contacted
a company which was highly recommended by Chilean and resident U.S.
citizen kayakers alike.
This company is YAK EXPEDICIONES owned by Juan Federico Zuazo based
in Santiago, Chile. YAK EXPEDICIONES specializes in organizing and
leading single and multi-day expeditions all over Chile to include
the Patagonia regions.
We have been on several trips led by YAK EXPEDICIONES to include
an absolutely unforgettable self-supported trip through the Patagonian
Fjords in Pumalin Park as well as a supported trip to Isla Damas.
This company is very safety conscious, always starting each trip
with safety briefings with instruction that continues throughout
the trip. They take no chances as they understand very well how
variable and hostile the weather can be in this area.
One of the special touches this company incorporates into each
trip are opportunities to share stories and dinners with some of
the locals of each area, some of whom have lived isolated from the
rest of Chile (and the world) all their lives. This also gives the
extra safety advantage in that the locals help with weather forecasts
and motor boat transportation if necessary.
There are many beautiful areas to kayak in Chile, but the best
places are very remote and can be dangerous to explore without prior
knowledge of weather patterns, currents and available camping spots.
YAK EXPEDICIONES has allowed us to explore those majestic areas
while having the peace of mind that all is being handled in a professional
and safe manner with new state of the art kayaking gear which includes
mapping GPS, satellite telephone, etc. Furthermore, Mr. Zuazo is
an marvelous photographer and will provide all interested clients
digital photo files of excellent quality
Stephanie and Greg Schaefer
U.S.A - Northern Patagonia Fiords, Pumalin Park and Isla Dama (Humboldt
Pinguin Natural Reserve,IV)
December 2004 and May 2005
......................................................................................
It was a very good trip that I shall remember for the rest of my
life, and I enjoyed paddling with you, and meeting all the Collonos.
Michael Counter
England - Exploración kayak de mar Glaciar San Rafael
March 2005
......................................................................................
Ahora, ya envuelta en la vorágine de Santiago y del trabajo
a veces cierro los ojos y regreso a Cholgo, Cahuelmó y esos
espectaculares fiordos, a esos atardeceres plácidos, sin
nada que hacer salvo admirar el paisaje, observar la maravilla de
la naturaleza que nos hace sentir tan pequeños pero tan afortunados
de poder estar allí, escuchar los pájaros, verlos
en su vuelo, mirar las nubes y el cielo, ese cielo estrellado que
sólo podemos ver cuando logramos alejarnos lo suficiente
de la gran ciudad.
No digo más porque me voy a deprimir, este año mi
aliento viene del pensamiento optimista de poder hacer el recorrido
de 12 días el próximo verano.
María Teresa Iturbe
Chile
Northern Patagonia Fjords , Pumalin Park
February 2005
......................................................................................
Hola,
just wanted to say thanks again for a great trip. It was a pleasure
meeting you and and your excellent hospitality . I´ll definitely
promote this trip upon our return to California.
Karl Hroza
USA
Northern Patagonia Fjords , Pumalin Park
November 2004
......................................................................................
Yes, I had a really, really, terrific time in Patagonia, and I
have you to thank for such wonderful lifetime memories. (And, the
food was awesome, too!)
Chris Pahl
USA
Northern Patagonia Fjords , Pumalin Park
November 2004
......................................................................................
Nos unimos a la última expedición ofrecida por YAK
EXPEDICIONES en esta temporada, seis días por el Parque Pumalín
y los fiordos de la patagonia norte, entre el 15 y el 21 de Marzo
de 2004. Es una compleja operación logística, tanto
de seres humanos como de equipo para poder tener el privilegio de
una intensa experiencia con el propio esfuerzo y voluntad personal,
de apreciar quizá uno de los más espectaculares paisajes
naturales aún existentes. Venimos de latitudes tropicales
y quizá para nosotros fué aún mas impactante.
Su gestor es una persona con amplísima experiencia en el
tema, manejando todo lo relacionada con la seguridad,comunicación
y logística del dezplazamiento, con una precisión
casi de una operación militar. Así mismo, al cabo
de varios años, ha creado unos vínculos de fraternidad
y amistad con los pescadores y colonos de la zona, contando la expedición
de ayuda incondicional en caso de alguna emergencia. El guía
conoce su mar y la gente que vive del mar.
Nunca se regresa completamente de esos fiordos. Es un privilegio
casi egoísta tener todo esa naturaleza, solo con seis kayakistas,
sin los hordas del turismo convencional.Que más se puede
pedir que navegar a escasos metros de una colonia de lobos marinos
y ver como ellos siguen el rastro del kayak, como el ganado siguiendo
el vaquero?
Alberto Valenzuela Rocha
Colombia
Northern Patagonia Fjords , Pumalin Park
March 2004
......................................................................................
If you wish to see the beauty of Chile in a very unique way, I highly
recommend it be done by kayak. For a week, I paddled through the
fjords of Chiloé and Pumalin Park in Northern Patagonia on a trip
offered by YAK EXPEDICIONES. It was an amazing experience and I
felt like a new person when the trip ended because it was challenging
and yet personally rewarding.
The scenery was absolutely breath-taking. Watching the towering
mountains kiss the sea, seeing numerous waterfalls cascade down
sheer cliffs, observing the sea change several different colors,
paddling with dolphins and other marine life, and then finishing
off a long day soaking in a natural hot spring were just a few of
my most memorable and favorite parts of the trip. In addition to
the exercise and spectacular scenery.
I also valued the experience because I learned a great deal about
the past and present situation in southern Chile by listening to
stories from Juan-fe (my guide from YAK), a Chilean family who provided
me and my group with a delicious meal and place to stay, and the
park rangers at one of my campsites. It was simply awesome and I
highly recommend this adventure to anyone who is athletically inclined
and loves nature. The guides from YAK are of top quality and I completely
trusted the navigational and safety expertise of Juan-fe. YAK also
provided me with almost all of my equipment and assisted me with
the logistics in planning my trip, proving to be extremely flexible
in altering the trip itinerary based on my wishes to see other locations
in the area.
Amy Flickinger
USA
Northern Patagonia Fjords , Pumalin Park
January 2003
......................................................................................
From my perspective the trip was wonderful! The kayaking was excellent,
the hikes were fantastico, and the friendships aquired superb.
The trip not only introduced us to the natural wonders of Patagonia,
it provided a great opportunity to meet and experience the hospitality
of the Patagonian colonials. This, is what I will remember the most.
Robert Karwowski
USA
Seakayak Expedition,Northern Patagonia Fjords , Pumalin Park, 11
days
March 04
......................................................................................
Al ir pasando los días...como que me enamoré más
y más de haber estado allá, de haberlo hecho solita...y
en general de darme el tiempo para hacer algo que es absolutamente
fuera de cualquier cosa que alguna vez hubiese hecho.....
Ximena Díaz
Chile
Northern Patagonia Fjords , Pumalin Park
January 2004
......................................................................................
We are back home and we were met by 10-inches of snow on the ground.
Quite a shock.We've shared your photos with family since arriving
back here and everyone is impressed with the trip and scenery. Thank
you again for sharing them with us.
Paul Allan
USA
Northern Patagonia Fjords , Pumalin Park
January 2004
......................................................................................
Muchas gracias, la verdad sobrepasaron ampliamente mis expectativas!!!.
Paula Broitman
Chile
Northern Patagonia Fjords , Pumalin Park
January 2004
......................................................................................
We just had one of the most wonderful experience kayaking the South
of Chile
with Yak Expeditions. We paddle for 6 days in one of the most extraordinary
landscape we ever been.
My wife Mary + 4 other people 1 from Germany, one from the Uk,
one from
Australia + my wife English and myself Chile sharing 6 days with
Juan
Federico Zuazo our guide.
We valued Juan Federico experience, being in charge of all the
logistics and
careful palnning all the details for a succesful trip.
We were able to be with local people from the South of Chile and
experince
their hospitality, the trip cover some extraordinary paddling direction
South. Stoping over some natural hot springs which after 4 hours
paddling
was the perfect finish. Camping in between some dramatic land scape
natural
forest overlooking the mountain cover with a snow top.
We fully recomend this trip is well planned, all details are being
taken
into consideration, food, drinks and good tents to spent the night.
The
kayak are fisrt class equiped with good spary decks and good paddle.
If you
like adventure like nothing else, and you are interested in meeting
local
peolple from Chile, this is the trip for you.
Raul Katz
Chile
Northern Patagonia Fjords , Pumalin Park
December 2003
......................................................................................
Gracias a ti Juanfe por una experiencia única y unos días
para reflexionar admirando los fiordos
Juan Pablo Moro
Chile
Northern Patagonia Fjords , Pumalin Park
November 2003
......................................................................................
Quiero agradecerte por el manifico viaje que nos planificaste,
realmente el impacto visual es indescriptible y debe ser una de
las cosas mas motivantes que he hecho en mi vida sin exagerar.
Arturo Peña y Lillo
Chile
Northern Patagonia Fjords , Pumalin Park
April 2003
......................................................................................
I would like to inform you that my son and I participated in a
sea kayaking expedition with YAK EXPEDICIONES in February visiting
the Continental Chiloé Fiords .It was an unforgettable experience
due to the majestic natural scenery, the perfect organization of
the trip (prepared for meteorological conditions, tides and
land radio contacts), as well as it's excellent infrastructure (good
quality, and comfortable kayaks) and the care taken with details
(food, disposal of wastes, etc.) .The instructor and guide demonstrated
great experience, prudence, and prevision of events in addition
to easily succeeding at integrating the group, an essential condition
for successfully transforming this experience into that of a physical
presence. Highly recommended.
Dr. Patricio Herrera L.
Chile
Northern Patagonia Fjords , Pumalin Park
February 2002
......................................................................................
This short passage is to salute all the members of the expedition
who have shared this experience together ( and that we passed will
flying colors!!!) I am grateful for the beautiful moments
and to all for such great attitudes and team spirit. The places
that we traveled were even more beautiful having the opportunity
to share them with great company and I believe that the memory of
this great experience will stay with all of us.
Carlos Talauer
Argentina
September 2002
......................................................................................
Hi, we just finished taking a trip through Chile, while we were
there we had the opportunity to take a sea kayaking trip through
the Humboldt Penguin National Reserve. The trip was planned with
YAK EXPEDICIONES (www.yakexpediciones.cl) and the truth is that
we were very satisfied with their services. The planned trip allowed
us to paddle amongst sea lions with minimal impact put upon
them and their ecosystem, to see penguins, cormorants and with luck
you can see dolphins . All day long their are activities to do,
traveling through the Isla Damas, paddling at night...; the paddling
and camping materials were all of great quality as well as the food
which was varied and abundant during the entire 3 days of our trip.
In the end, it was a very interesting experience and we recommend
to those would like to experience life in an alternative fashion
to take this opportunity to visit the Humboldt Penguin National
Park by kayak.
Javier Hernández
Spain
September 2002
......................................................................................
I would like to recommend the company YAK EXPEDICIONES to those
who are interested in taking a sea kayaking trip. They services
they offer are clearly the best in Chile; very professional, responsible,
safe, with excellent equipment and well planned. The places they
visit are the most beautiful places found in our country, such as
Isla Dama, Humboldt Penguin National Reserve, IV region; Bueno River
until the sea, Pumalin Park -Northern Patagonia. Lastly, the
courses are very good and grant you adequate preparation to continue
with Sea or River Kayaking trips.
Juan Pablo Pastorino
Chile
May 2002
......................................................................................
I would like to recommend the YAK EXPEDICIONES company for sea
kayaking trips due to a high grade of satisfaction and professionalism.
The knowledge about the places visited and their experience allow
you to enjoy each trip in it's totality. Security is another important
aspect highlighted by this company: each trip is well planned ahead
of time, giving priority to security, equipment recommendations,
and food among other important aspects which the company will recommend
before initiating the trip.
José Romero
Chile
April 2002
......................................................................................
I just returned from a wonderful vacation in Chile and Argentina.
I wanted to write to tell you about the highlight of my vacation
because I thought that you might want to share it with your customers/friends/subscribers.
My friend and I went on a 3 day sea kayaking trip with YAK EXPEDICIONES.
Although I contacted several kayaking outfitters, only Yak was willing
to construct a trip that met my needs. They created a wonderful
trip through the fjords in Parque Pumalin. When we arrived in Chile
we met the guide and learned we would be joined by two Chileans.
These three (the two and the guide) made the trip an absolutely
amazing experience. JuanFe (our guide) was bilingual and helped
translate. My friend spoke limited Spanish, and the two Chileans,
Claudio and Andres, spoke only a little English, but somehow we
still managed to communicate and have a wonderful time.
The kayaking was beautiful. Amazingly, we had stunning weather--absolutely
perfect. It was sunny the whole time (the last week in February
2002) and the Chileans thought it was hot. My friend and I thought
it was perfect. The fjords were dramatic and the water a beautiful
green. The kayaking was challenging, but not difficult. One of the
things that is special about YAK EXPEDICIONES is that the trip is
totally self-supported. That means that once we leave the land,
we're on our own--no motor boats tagging along with us, no vans
waiting for us at the camp site. Everything we needed for the entire
trip was packed into our kayaks. Amazingly, they guide much longer
trips and still manage to carry everything with them!
I was extremely luck and spotted two dolphins on the way home.
There were a lot of birds, and the trees and flowers on the shore
and the waterfalls were gorgeous. We had to watch the tide and wind
carefully so we weren't caught where we didn't want to be. I was
surprised that the water levels between low and high tide were so
different!
JuanFe also was appropriately concerned with safety. He made sure
we understood the basic paddling stroke, taking care to ensure we
didn't paddle inappropriately and risk injury. He also made sure
we knew what to do if it became overly windy or we capsized (tipped
over). He carried a radio that he could contact other fishermen
on in case of an emergency, and we always wore life jackets. He
provided good-quality equipment including paddling jackets and spray
skirts, and comfortable tents.
Another fun part of the trip was staying with a Colonos family.
We spent one night with them before leaving and ate with them on
the return. They were able to share some stories about life before
the road was put in, and fed us an unbelievable amount of food.
If I get a chance to return to Chile, I will certain make sure
that sea kayaking with YAK EXPEDICIONES is part of my vacation.
His friendly personality and reasonable prices are perfect for everyone.
Sincerely,
Anna Cederberg
USA
Northern Patagonia Fjords , Pumalin Park
April 2002
......................................................................................
Soy un fanático del Kayak de Mar (Sea Kayak) con mas de
cinco años de práctica de este deporte, pero es en
los últimos 3 años en los que realmente he podido
disfrutar este espectacular pasatiempo.
En Chile, a pesar de ser un país con extensas costas y antepasados
piragüistas, este deporte no ha tenido mucho desarrollo y por
lo tanto es difícil juntar un grupo de kayakistas para salir
a recorrer las costas,
lagos o ríos de nuestro territorio.
Es por eso que la labor de YAK EXPEDICIONES, con Juan Federico
Zuazo a la cabeza, es digna de ser reconocida. A través de
la variada gama de alternativas que ofrece YAK, he podido disfrutar
de apasionantes salidas a surfear en kayak a las costas del litoral
central de Chile, realicé una inolvidable expedición
a la Isla Damas (Isla de los Delfines), Punta Choros, en la región
de Atacama y en febrero pasado, experimenté la máxima
expresión del kayak de mar al realizar una travesía
auto-soportada por los fiordos de la Patagonia Norte, Chiloé
Continental, extremo norte del Parque Pumalín.
Esta experiencia es sin duda el doctorado de esta disciplina. Con
ella, no sólo se disfruta de un maravilloso viaje por una
región aún semi-virgen y racionalmente explotada por
el turismo, sino que se aprende desde la A a la Z del Kayak de Mar.
El viaje cuenta con una detallada planificación en torno
los significativos cambios en las mareas que ocurren en estas latitudes,
pero al mismo tiempo es flexible y variado para ajustarse al cambiante
clima y a los intereses de los participantes. El carácter
de auto-soportado no significa en ningún momento tener que
someterse a sacrificios innecesarios, ya que la logística
de cinco estrellas, desde el menú de comidas hasta el equipo
para acampar, permite reponer tranquilamente en cada lugar de descanso
las energías gastadas durante las jornadas de remo. Estas
últimas están cuidadosamente planeadas y se cuenta
permanentemente con un apoyo vía radio VHF para informarse
de las condiciones climáticas, el estado de mar y el escaso
tráfico marítimo.
Las recomendaciones sobre lo que hay que llevar y que YAK entrega
antes del viaje, reflejan la vasta experiencia de Juan Federico
Zuazo, respaldada por sus permanentes entrenamientos con NOLS.
Con todo esto, les recomiendo sinceramente las actividades de YAK
EXPEDICIONES para todas aquellas personas que disfrutan del verdadero
contacto con la naturaleza, en especial el mar, a través
de una actividad física que se puede desarrollar con toda
la familia, en forma segura y con una excelente logística,
sin caer en la sofisticación de esas expediciones de mantel
blanco y pisco-sour servido en bandeja al final de cada trayecto
del viaje. Para eso existen los cruceros.
Juan Andrés Morel
Chile
Northern Patagonia Fjords , Pumalin Park
February 2002
......................................................................................
My trip with you was transforming. I returned from it with a genuinely
different outlook on life and priorities here in the Big City. In
particular, I enjoyed being away from it all. Northern Patagonia
is far, far removed from the office and New York City. The pace
and quality of life that we encountered there was so different from
the pace and quality of life here. The daily focus on the tides,
the wind, the paddle, and setting up camp is an entirely different
context from my daily focus here. It is not that I re-evaluated
life so much as that I simply take it all in a slightly different
way now. And I cannot wait to return.
The other strengths of the trip were the setting, which was breathtaking;
the exercise, which I don't get enough of here; and the camaraderie.
We were so fortunate to get along so well. Of course, that is largely
to your credit. I thought that you organized and outfitted a rigorous,
yet manageable, trip; and I always felt that we were in the hands
of a true professional, who put safety first (with comfort and enjoy
ability a close second!).
I have no criticisms. At the end of the day, I felt very accomplished.
Huinay was particularly enjoyable. Meeting Patricio and his family
gave me an experience I could not have gained doing most other kind
of travel. And the hike there was a good break from the kayaking.
As for the two fjords, what more could anyone ask for? Spectacular
scenery to match the spectacular weather. The waterfall was nothing
short of thrilling; same for las termas and the gorgeous sunset
we had there.
In short, I look forward to my next trip with you.
James Goldfarb
USA
Northern Patagonia Fjords , Pumalin Park
April 2002
......................................................................................
Hola Juan Fe - how are you? I really really really really wish
I were out
kayaking right now. I even miss your cooking.
Laura Rose
USA
Northern Patagonia Fjords , Pumalin Park
March 2002
......................................................................................
Five days in a kayak with YAK EXPEDICIONES... Off the stress and
timetable of the rest of the world. No boat following along to give
you an easy out if you get a little winded. No motor drowning out
the lapping of the waves on your kayak. On your own!
On a kayak trip like this, you first becomes aware of all of the
structures, schedules and timelines that regulate your life back
in the 'real world'. And you celebrate your liberation from those
artificial structures. But then you gradually become aware of the
fact that this free life in the kayak, just like your life back
in the 'real' world, is also regulated and scheduled and placed
on a time line. Only here it is not some artificial, man made schedule.
No, here you are controlled by rhythms that are much larger, much
grander. The tides dictate our coming and going. For instance, at
low tide those marvelous hot springs you soaked in yesterday would
not be on the edge of the water anymore. You would be carrying the
loaded kayak a long, long way. The weather controls your passing
also. Those raging water that you saw yesterday from the comfort
of the hot springs would not have been something you would ever
dream of being out upon in a kayak! And the rhythms of your body
also play into the picture. You cannot fight the bodily aches that
are inevitable. Instead you learn to accept these natural rhythms
and patterns. They are out of your control.
And as you give up the illusion of control over these rhythms,
you flow into the movement of the moment. You experience a depth
of unity with this natural world that now rules you. And you realize
how very magnificent it is to be in accord with this natural rhythm.
Mike Perry
USA
Northern Patagonia Fjords , Pumalin Park
March 2002
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