Adventure Travel with Gerardo Niklitschek - ALSUR Expediciones

Gerardo Niklitschek

Owner & Founder
ALSUR Expediciones

Gerardo Niklitschek is the founder of ALSUR Expediciones and one of Patagonia’s most seasoned and respected adventure guides. With more than 30 years of experience exploring the wild landscapes of southern Chile and Argentina, Gerardo leads unforgettable journeys into the heart of Patagonia—combining cultural insight, deep environmental knowledge, and technical expertise.

Born and raised in Chile, Gerardo is a certified Physical Education and Recreation Instructor with advanced training as a rafting, sea kayaking, and mountain guide. His work has taken him across some of the region’s most iconic protected areas, including Pumalín Park, Valle Chacabuco, Vicente Pérez Rosales, Bernardo O’Higgins, and Torres del Paine, where he specializes in overland expeditions and immersive nature experiences.

Now based full-time in Patagonia, Gerardo designs and leads custom adventures through ALSUR Expediciones, offering trekking, horseback riding, kayaking, mountaineering, and wildlife trips that reflect his deep love for the land. Fluent in both Spanish and English, he’s known for his calm leadership, vast regional knowledge, and ability to bring Patagonia’s landscapes and stories vividly to life.

Summary
In this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, host Jason Elkins speaks with Gerardo Niklitschek, the founder of ALSUR Expediciones, about his journey in adventure tourism in Chile. Gerardo shares his early experiences in nature, the evolution of outdoor guiding in Chile, and the significant influence of Douglas Tompkins on conservation efforts. The conversation highlights the growing importance of sustainable practices in tourism and the challenges of building a successful team in the outdoor industry. Gerardo emphasizes the need for a connection between adventure tourism and conservation, showcasing the beauty and potential of Patagonia as a premier destination for adventure travelers.

takeaways

• Gerardo Niklitschek is the founder of ALSUR Expediciones, focusing on adventure tourism in Chile.
• Chile has rapidly grown as a destination for adventure tourism over the past decade.
• Gerardo's passion for nature began at a young age, exploring the outdoors independently.
• Family support was crucial, even if they didn't fully understand his passion for the outdoors.
• The outdoor guiding industry in Chile has evolved significantly, with more trained professionals now available.
• Gerardo's early experiences in nature shaped his desire to share these adventures with others.
• Douglas Tompkins played a significant role in conservation efforts in Chile, influencing Gerardo's approach to tourism.
• Conservation is increasingly important to clients, with many willing to pay more for eco-friendly experiences.
• Building a successful team in the outdoor industry requires dedication and a focus on training.
• The future of adventure tourism in Chile looks promising, with a growing interest in sustainable practices.

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