Travel solo

Over a decade ago, by chance, I went on a trip to El Calafate and Torres del Paine, on my own. I started the trip a bit skeptical as I was used to traveling extensively, always accompanied. A few minutes after landing in El Calafate already on the rental car, I found myself singing to the top of my lungs “Bailar Pegados” by Sergio Dalma: a great start I figured, and so it was. I ended the trip fascinated by the incredible experiences and new self discovery. 

A few weeks ago, I was suddenly reminded of the bliss of that experience and decided to go on a short trip, in search of whatever was I discovered those many years before: the sense of freedom, the never to be lost sense of wonder, the ability to connect with complete strangers, the chance to hike my beloved, impressive Patagonia, the unique sense of nature immersion I get in the Andes, good reading, silence, me. 

I spent 3 days hiking to, around and from Refugio Frey in Bariloche, which was very convenient. I flew very early on Friday morning to Bari, by midday I was already at the refugio. Explored the area on a few short hikes the following day and returned the long, less traveled way, “por el filo”, on Sunday to fly back home at night. The extensive Patagonia offers a bunch of trails, connecting different mountain huts with accommodation services, no internet or phone service, and the beauty of running into an amazing array of visitors from all over the world, while being able to be in solitude on your chosen trails.

In relation to the last picture: silence is a treasure, a majestic condor visited me on a closeup encounter while seating on my own overlooking the Campanile valley. I keep the interpretation of this magical moment to myself 🤍

Traveling on your own might be the last choice for many, while for others this pause to our busy lives can result in a potent experience of reflection and self communion.