Patagonia is more than a destination; it is a global classroom for conservation. This March 10, Trek Relief returns to the Aysén Region of Chile for our most significant expansion to date.

This program, titled "New Roots," marks the successful completion of a five-year project in Villa Cerro Castillo and the beginning of a brand-new partnership in the village of Puerto Ibáñez. This expedition isn't just a trek—it is a commitment to Regenerative Tourism, where the journey itself helps restore the land and the local community.

The Heart of the Mission: Fundación Renoval

Our 2026 partner, Fundación Renoval, is a Chilean non-profit dedicated to the ecological and social restoration of the Aysén territory. Their philosophy is simple but profound: humans are not separate from nature; we are the primary agents for its recovery.

Through their flagship project, Mi Aula Ambiental (My Environmental Classroom), Renoval creates outdoor learning spaces where local children become the guardians of their own biodiversity. Trek Relief’s 2026 cohort will spend the first three days of the trip working alongside Renoval to:

Expand Greenhouse Infrastructure: Creating year-round growing capacity for native species.
Install Compost Systems: Teaching sustainable waste management to the next generation in Puerto Ibáñez.
Build Ecological Literacy: Constructing the physical garden beds and learning stations that make the "Environmental Classroom" possible.The Trek: Exploring Patagonia National Park

Following our volunteer work, the team will embark on a 3-day, 21-mile (30km) trek through the Patagonia National Park. This park, once a sheep ranch, was restored by the Tompkins family and is now a sanctuary for pumas, guanacos, and endangered wildlife.

Unlike some of our more "difficult" expeditions, this route is intentionally chosen for its accessibility, following the Rio Chacabuco valley through mostly grassy, soft terrain . It is the flattest trek in Trek Relief history, allowing participants to focus more on nature journaling and meditation than on high-elevation struggle.

Important Reminders for 2025 Participants

Gear & Packing

The "Wet Feet" Rule: You will cross at least one river or creek where feet may get wet . Pack camp shoes (Crocs or light running shoes) to ensure you have dry feet at the campsite.
Broken-In Shoes: Whether you use trail runners or hiking boots, ensure they are already broken in to avoid blisters on the trail .
Pack Weight: Your maximum pack weight should be 30–35 pounds, including your tent and sleeping gear .
Trek Relief T-Shirts: For new participants, we will provide these upon arrival. Please wear them during volunteer days at the schools so we are easily identifiable to teachers and students .

Food & Water Logistics

Pristine Water: The water in the National Park is safe and clean. You only need to carry a 1-liter bottle as we will find refill points all along the trail. A group filter is available for those who prefer extra treatment but you can bring your own if you prefer.
Snack Strategy: While we provide fantastic meals made from local ingredients, please bring your own specific "comfort snacks" or protein supplements (like beef jerky or specific sweets) from home if you have a high-energy diet .
Biodegradable Items: To protect the landscape, all toiletries (shampoo, soap, etc.) is recommended to be biodegradable (e.g., Dr. Bronner’s).

Living & Safety

Connectivity: There is no cell reception inside the National Park. Our team will carry a satellite GPS for emergencies. Expect good signal when we return to the farm or local villages.
Sun Protection: The UV levels in Patagonia are extremely strong. Bring SPF 50+ sunscreen and use it daily .
Campsite Facilities: We will use campsites equipped with dry toilets (latrines) . For bathroom needs during the hike, you must be prepared to pack out all waste.

The 2026 expedition concludes on March 20th with a final, scenic drive back to Coyhaique for our farewell dinner. We are incredibly proud of this team for stepping into a "New Roots" mission.

Click below for the complete packing list for Patagonia.

Packing list for patagonia