Complete Guide to Attending the 2025 Adventure Travel World Summit in Puerto Natales, Chile: Accommodation, Travel Tips, and What to Expect

The 2025 Adventure Travel World Summit (ATWS) will be held from 13 to 16 October 2025 in Puerto Natales, Chile, offering adventure tourism professionals an extraordinary opportunity to connect, explore, and experience the unparalleled beauty of Patagonia. With the theme “Soul of the Water, Spirit of the Land,” the summit will serve as a platform for professionals to engage with thought leaders, develop new business relationships, and immerse themselves in one of the world’s most iconic adventure destinations.

Chile: A Premier Adventure Tourism Destination

Chile’s diverse landscapes, stretching from the Atacama Desert in the north to the glaciers of Patagonia in the south, make it a premier destination for adventure tourism. The Patagonian region, in particular, draws travelers from around the globe with its rugged beauty, offering everything from high-altitude trekking to serene boat rides across crystal-clear lakes. The 2025 ATWS will provide delegates with a firsthand experience of the region’s natural wonders, from the Torres del Paine National Park to remote historical estancias that highlight the region’s culture and history.

What Attendees Can Expect at ATWS 2025:

The Adventure Travel World Summit is an essential event for anyone in the adventure tourism industry. It offers a mix of educational sessions, networking opportunities, and immersive experiences designed to foster growth, innovation, and collaboration. Here’s a look at what attendees can expect:

1. Educational Sessions & Networking:

The summit will feature keynote speakers, panel discussions, and workshops, providing valuable insights into emerging trends and innovations in the adventure tourism sector. Experts from across the globe will share their knowledge on a wide range of topics, including sustainable tourism practices and the future of adventure travel.

2. Business-to-Business Meetings:

A Marketplace will offer delegates the chance to engage in one-on-one meetings with suppliers and buyers, facilitating new business opportunities and strengthening professional networks. This will be a key opportunity for attendees to expand their industry reach and build lasting partnerships.

3. MediaConnect:

The MediaConnect session allows delegates to pitch their story ideas to over 45 international travel journalists and editors, offering unmatched exposure to global media outlets. This is an excellent opportunity for destinations, tour operators, and adventure travel brands to showcase their offerings to the international media community.

The Day of Adventure – 14 October 2025:

On 14 October, delegates will embark on a Day of Adventure, designed to connect them with the natural beauty and cultural richness of Patagonia. This exciting day will offer a variety of curated experiences, including the Mirador Base Las Torres hike, one of the most iconic treks in the region. Participants will also have the chance to visit historical estancias, where they can spend time with local baqueanos (Patagonian cowboys) and learn about the traditions and history of the area.

What’s Included for Delegates:

• Transportation to and from the adventure sites
• Expert local guides with in-depth knowledge of Patagonia’s landscapes and culture
• Required gear for activities
• Lunch may be included on some adventures (check individual trip details)
• Tipping: Delegates are encouraged to tip their guides for their excellent work

Registration for Day of Adventure:

• Opens for all delegates: 27 August 2025, 10:00 AM PDT (UTC-7)
• Closes for all delegates: 26 September 2025, 5:00 PM PDT (UTC-7)

Chile’s Evolution in Adventure Tourism:

Chile has made significant strides in recent years, positioning itself as a leader in eco-tourism and sustainable adventure tourism. The 2025 ATWS will provide delegates with an exclusive opportunity to explore Chile’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty while promoting authentic and sustainable travel experiences. Chile’s adventure tourism infrastructure is thriving, and ATWS 2025 will showcase the country’s diverse offerings, from trekking and wildlife encounters to cultural experiences that highlight the region’s history and heritage.

Summit Agenda:

• Sunday, 12 October 2025: Pre-Summit Adventures (PSAs) begin
• Monday, 13 October 2025: Registration, educational sessions, networking, and the opening reception
• Tuesday, 14 October 2025: Day of Adventure in Patagonia
• Wednesday, 15 October 2025: Business-to-Business meetings and networking
• Thursday, 16 October 2025: Educational sessions, MediaConnect, and networking
• Friday, 17 October 2025: Delegates depart

Why Attend ATWS 2025:

The Adventure Travel World Summit is a must-attend event for anyone involved in adventure tourism. Delegates will gain access to expert-led sessions, unique networking opportunities, and hands-on adventure experiences that will help shape the future of their businesses and the industry as a whole. The summit not only offers invaluable knowledge but also the chance to experience Chile’s spectacular landscapes and cultural heritage in person.

By attending ATWS 2025, delegates will be positioned at the forefront of the evolving adventure tourism industry, equipped with the tools, connections, and inspiration to thrive in the years to come.

Speakers for the 2025 Adventure Travel World Summit

The 2025 Adventure Travel World Summit will feature an impressive lineup of industry leaders, offering valuable insights into the future of adventure tourism.

Shannon Stowell, CEO of the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), and Gustavo Timo, President, will share their perspectives on the industry’s evolution. Arnie Weissmann, Editor-in-Chief of Travel Weekly, and Nicolas Caram, Vice President at ATTA, will provide key insights into global travel trends and destination management.

Other notable speakers include Heidi Durflinger, CEO of EF World Journeys, Alex Narracott, CEO of Much Better Adventures, and Dan Austin, Founder of Austin Adventures, who will discuss sustainable travel and building successful businesses. Kristine McDivitt Tompkins, President of Tompkins Conservation, will offer perspectives on conservation efforts in adventure tourism.

Also joining are Kimberly Daley, Founder of Daley & Company, and Julie Thorner, President of Liquid Spark, who will talk about marketing and branding in adventure tourism. Delegates can also look forward to discussions on indigenous tourism by Laurence Lainé, and sustainability by Anna Carolina Lobo, Sustainable Tourism Lead at WWF Brazil.

Buyers at the Summit

The 2025 Adventure Travel World Summit will feature key buyers from prominent companies and organizations in the adventure tourism industry. Notable participants include the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), Adventure Treks, A&K Philanthropy, and EF World Journeys. Other significant buyers include Discover Corps, ExperiencePlus! Bicycle Tours, Natural Habitat Adventures, G Adventures, Sierra Club, Miru Adventures, MT Sobek, Say Hueque | Argentina & Chile Journeys, and Privada Travel. These influential organizations are at the forefront of shaping the future of adventure tourism, making their presence essential for the summit.

Where Will ATWS 2025 Take Place?

The majority of Adventure Travel World Summit activities will be held at Polideportivo Puerto Natales, a versatile venue located just 2.5 km (1.5 miles) from the main town square, Plaza de Armas. The Marketplace and some networking events will be hosted around the Plaza, providing a central hub for delegates to engage with partners and explore Chile’s adventure tourism offerings.

Puerto Natales offers a perfect balance of convenience and natural beauty, allowing attendees to easily explore nearby trails, wildlife, and the unique culture of Patagonia during their stay.

How to Get to Puerto Natales

By Air: There are two main airport options for traveling to Puerto Natales:

1. Teniente Julio Gallardo Airport (PNT): Located just 9 km (5.5 miles) north of Puerto Natales, this airport is the most convenient for direct flights from Santiago, Chile’s capital (approximately a 2.5-hour flight).
2. Aeropuerto Internacional Presidente Carlos Ibáñez del Campo (PUQ) in Punta Arenas: Located around 250 km (155 miles) from Puerto Natales, Punta Arenas is another option with more frequent flights, especially from Santiago. From Punta Arenas, delegates can take a bus to Puerto Natales (approximately 3 hours).

Option 1: Fly Direct to Puerto Natales (PNT)

• Best for: Convenience and saving time
• Airport shuttle: Available to take delegates from the airport to their accommodation.
• Taxi: Available outside the airport.
• Rental cars: Available at the airport or in town for independent exploration.

Option 2: Fly to Punta Arenas (PUQ) and Take a Bus

• Best for: More flight options
• Bus: There are multiple buses daily from Punta Arenas to Puerto Natales, with a journey time of about 3 hours and a cost of $8-15 USD. It is advisable to book in advance for the best prices and availability.

Getting Around Puerto Natales

• Public Transportation: Local buses and taxis are available for easy navigation around Puerto Natales.
• Bicycles: Available for rent to explore the town and surrounding areas.
• Taxis: Available in the town center, but it is advisable to agree on the fare beforehand.
• Rental Cars: Renting a car is a popular choice for delegates who wish to explore Torres del Paine and nearby areas at their own pace. Rental agencies are available at the airport and in town.

Conclusion

The 2025 Adventure Travel World Summit in Puerto Natales, Chile, offers a unique opportunity for adventure tourism professionals to connect, learn, and explore. With a variety of accommodations, ranging from hostels to luxury hotels, delegates can enjoy the natural beauty of Patagonia while attending the summit. Convenient travel options to Puerto Natales ensure easy access, and the stunning Torres del Paine National Park provides an unforgettable setting for both business and adventure. Be sure to book accommodation early and prepare for an inspiring and memorable experience at ATWS 2025.

Image Credit: Adventure Travel Trade Association

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