NOLS Patagonia Campus

Come explore the rugged landscape, unique culture, and unpredictable weather of the Aysén and Magallanes regions of Chilean Patagonia. Whether you’re backpacking, climbing, sea kayaking, or mountaineering, you’ll begin your adventure at the NOLS Patagonia campo, or farm. Patagonia’s terrain varies widely—from steppes and temperate rainforests to alpine ecosystems and ocean fjords—and most courses travel through more than one of these distinct landscapes. From sea to summit, you’ll learn how local ranchers and settlers, known as pobladores, have adapted to live in each environment. Starting in 1990, our staff has built strong relationships with local communities through our history of exploration in remote places, working side by side with the pobladores. You’ll practice your Spanish language skills as you listen to the stories of families who have lived here for generations and interact with our in-town staff and instructors. Most courses include regular interactions with local communities, and some also include a homestay with a Chilean host family. At the end of your course, you’ll celebrate with one of our favorite traditions: cordero al palo, a feast of roasted lamb served with fried bread, potatoes, pebre, and greens from our garden. This meal honors the tradition of sharing that you’ll learn in Patagonia—it reflects the values of the people who call this isolated region of the world home.