paola
 
The Lens and the Heart of Patagonia
Paola Montelongo, originally from Mexico, is the only Mexican woman recognized as a Specialized Guide in Torres del Paine. With over 8 years of mountaineering and trekking experience across North America, Chilean Patagonia is now her home. Based in Torres del Paine, Paola is a guide passionate about photography, nature, and trekking. Her special touch, Neuroarts, transforms every excursion into a unique and innovative experience for adventure tourism and niche activities in Chile.
Her Highlights:
  • Torres del Paine guide
  • Mexican volcanoes guide
  • Landscape and wildlife photographer
  • Neuroartist
The Journey and the Passion: From Mexico to Chilean Patagonia
 
Q: What brought you from Mexico to the remote corners of Chilean Patagonia, specifically to Torres del Paine?
“I dedicated many years of my life to professional dance. At one point, I felt the need to broaden my horizons. Mountaineering was an important hobby for me, so I decided to take a sabbatical year. As fate would have it, Chile became my destination. It was a country not often spoken about in my daily life, which sparked my curiosity.
Initially, I lived in Valparaíso, pursuing my Neuroarts studies. We spent most of our time at the Psychiatric Hospital of Playa Ancha, developing programs for introducing art workshops there. After my time in the ‘Pearl of the Pacific’ ended, it was time for my true purpose: to live in the mountains. Since part of Patagonia is in Chilean territory, I decided that would be my next destination, as I knew nothing about it except its appealing name. Upon arriving in Puerto Natales, I had nothing but beautiful experiences with the people I met along the way. Meanwhile, I dedicated my days to knocking on doors of companies I knew were located inside the well-known Torres del Paine National Park.
I was lucky that one day, a young man named Jonathan, opened his office doors. He received my CV. We talked for 10 minutes. I remember he mainly emphasized my high level of English. He also said my experience working in a psychiatric hospital would be very helpful for customer service in complex situations. A few days later, I received my first job offer from that young man. I was a receptionist at Refugio Grey within Torres del Paine National Park. That place became my first home in this magical park. I fell more and more in love with the park. It was then that I fell into the ‘Patagonia Trap’ effect.”
Q: Was there a specific moment or image that prompted you to leave everything behind?
“I perfectly remember the moment I stood for the first time at Paso John Gardner, with the immensity of the Grey Glacier before me. The feeling that overwhelmed me was so immense; I felt like I couldn’t contain it. At that moment, I knew I wouldn’t be in Torres del Paine for just a short time.” 
Q: What made you stay and make Patagonia your home?
“We must mention an important historical event called COVID. I had to leave Patagonia, and that broke my heart. I returned to Mexico. Chile closed its borders and visas for 2 years. I lived with immense nostalgia for Patagonia. I dedicated myself to reading and learning more about the place, knowing I would return. However, people I told about it saw it as madness to leave everything again for that place. As soon as visas were reactivated and mine was approved, I left everything in Mexico and returned to Patagonia.
A place is truly defined by the people who inhabit it. I have met incredible individuals in this country. I admire their knowledge of the surrounding nature, their simplicity, and their cultural roots.
I decided to make Patagonia my home for the beauty and tranquility one breathes here. This includes its chaotic and ever-changing natural environment. Also, for the growth opportunities. It is one of the best places worldwide for a guided trekking experience. My goal is to contribute my Neuroarts knowledge and other skills. I aim to bring innovation to our vision of these landscapes.”
Q: How and when did you discover that deep passion for nature photography and trekking that defines your life today?
“I’ve divided my life into two spheres for a long time: one is the artistic side, and the other is adventure.
At 15, a friend—whom I still thank for introducing me to this world—invited me on an excursion with CAIC (Club Alpino del Instituto de Ciencias) in Guadalajara, Mexico. We climbed a hill and camped with about 20 other kids. I perfectly remember that:
  1. I was horribly unprepared. I hadn’t even told my parents I was going.
  2. It rained most of the time. All my things were wet and it was cold; I really suffered.
But the people I met and the forest we explored were incredible. The laughter we shared that weekend was out of this world. I signed up for the next excursion they organized, and all the ones that followed.
That same year, when it was time to climb my first 4,000-meter peak, I brought the camera I had begged my dad for, capturing everything around us. A few meters from the summit, with the mighty Volcán de Fuego in front of us, it decided to release a plume of smoke more than 100 meters high on a snowy day in Mexico (which is unusual). I was able to capture that moment.
That moment, that photograph, made me see that the two things I was most passionate about could coexist.”
Guiding with the Lens: The Unique Experience in Torres del Paine
 
Q: What elements make each expedition unique for you and for those who accompany you?
“Patagonia is a place to be experienced. The grandeur of Paine is something indescribable in real life. In photography, it appears otherworldly. All its elements make you feel it deeply. Definitely, no two days are alike. This makes it very appealing because you truly capture unique photographs and create lasting memories.
The Paine Massif is so perfect that its geographical positioning causes the sunrise light to reflect directly on the granite, creating golden, orange, and pink hues (depending on the season and cloudiness). We must not forget the variety of ecosystems it comprises. Its numerous lakes and lagoons have different shades. It boasts unique geological formations.
And its special touch: the fauna found within the park. This includes Guanaco, Andean Condor, Puma, Foxes, various birds. If you are very lucky, the famous Huemul.
Ultimately, it’s a playground for photographers.”
Q: As a specialized photography guide, what secrets or techniques do you share so your clients can capture the essence of Patagonia, even in challenging conditions?
“I can’t share my secrets here; we’ll experience them together soon! What I can tell you is that in Patagonia, the only constant is change. You cannot predict or plan a photograph because the weather is very changeable and extreme. But by being accompanied by someone who knows those secrets, places, perspectives, the best spots depending on the light, you can truly relax. As a guide, I know where to take you based on what you’d like to capture. I will also share my techniques and knowledge.
Patience is key; my goal is for you to capture what only a few can see in Patagonia.”
Q: Beyond the tour, what does it mean for you to build an authentic connection with nature and with the people you guide?
“We are in a sacred place. Its respect is fundamental. I firmly believe that those who respect and come with good intentions to these places, they open up to us.
Where I’m from in Mexico, we live by ‘Mi casa es tu casa’ (My home is your home). For me, when guiding, I like to create a sense of comfort and service as if someone you love very much were staying at your house. You want to give them the best attention. You want their experience to stay in their heart. They should know they can always find a safe place in every sense.”
Safety and Professionalism: The Commitment of an Expert Guide
 
Q: Safety is our number one priority at Chile Adventure Guides. What certifications and experience back you to guide confidently in demanding terrains like Torres del Paine?
“When hiring a guide, I believe it’s key to check their records and certifications. Speaking for myself, I have my Sernatur registration (registration number 76347). I possess the
WFR (Wilderness First Responder) certification and the Torres del Paine Specialized Guide credential. I have also taken Mid-Mountain courses with the American Mountain School and High Mountain courses with the UIAGM of Bolivia.
I have 4 years of experience guiding. I’ve worked both on the high volcanoes in Mexico and in Torres del Paine National Park in Chile. I have completed ascents in mountains in Mexico, USA, Peru, Bolivia, and Chile across my 8 years in these disciplines.”
Q: Patagonian weather is famous for its unpredictability. How do you prepare to ensure a safe and successful experience on each expedition?
“The summit is reaching our final destination safe and sound. We constantly monitor the weather using different forecasts. Patagonia is famous for its unpredictability, as you mention.
Before each excursion, we conduct a briefing. We discuss the weather and what clothing, food, drinks, and extras are best to bring. Similarly, my team and I always carry extra gear for any unforeseen event. We will explain the planned route. We always mention safety protocols, contingency plans, and the regulations we follow. This ensures that, in any unforeseen event, it’s not a surprise, but that we all know as a team how we will act.”
Q: How do you incorporate sustainability and the ‘Leave No Trace’ principles into your tours to protect these unique environments?
“Working in conservation areas means respect for nature comes first.
Tourism guides in Chile are characterized by their commitment to Leave No Trace principles and sustainable tourism.
For example, all trash we generate on an excursion returns with us until the very end. Any personal paper also comes back with us. We minimize plastic use. We also reduce our impact on the trails. We avoid disturbing wildlife. We ensure that consumed items are as local as possible, supporting the community.
We know we receive people from all over the world. It is possible they do not have the same environmental awareness. Therefore, always with the best disposition, we educate our passengers. This way, they can share with their loved ones how to behave in nature in a more eco-friendly way.”
Your Adventure with a Lens: Explore with Paola and Chile Adventure Guides
 
Q: What type of unique experiences do you offer travelers through Chile Adventure Guides, and for whom are they designed?
“Aside from the classic excursions that can be done in
Torres del Paine, such as wildlife sightings, day treks, full-day photography tours, etc.
Together with Chile Adventure Guides, we offer specialized experiences like:
– Soft Hiking & Photography: for those who want to do short walks and vehicle transfers, where we focus more on the photographic eye.
– Art & Wellness Adventures: for those seeking something deeper, a change in their lives, and connect more with the artistic and introspective world.
– Windy Photography Experiences: for people who want to experience the intensity and discomfort of Patagonia, feel its winds, and learn to portray those indescribable moments.”
 These vary in duration, difficulty, and, well, taste.
Q: To conclude, what message would you give to a traveler who dreams of exploring Patagonia or a photographer seeking their next great inspiration?
“I know what the dream of going to Patagonia is like, because I lived it too, and it seemed distant. The key is to dare. One arrives in Patagonia as one person and leaves as another. Patagonia has given me things that cannot be touched and have transcended my life with great abundance. The magic of this place is something everyone should experience.
We know how far it is and how much it can cost to reach such a remote place. But my mission is to expand that feeling and enlightenment that this place once gave me. We want to share it with you.
Come empty. You will leave with a full soul.”
Your Adventure with Connection Awaits
Paola’s passion, unwavering professionalism, and commitment to safety and sustainability are the essence of every adventure. She will guide you to unforgettable experiences and connections.
Explore Paola’s profile on Chile Adventure Guides and book your next photography or trekking adventure in Torres del Paine today!
Discover more certified guide offerings on our platform and subscribe to our newsletter for news and exclusive workshops.