Original content creation is deeply ingrained in Black Tomato Travel’s ethos, and Ben Marchant, a natural storyteller, exemplifies this perfectly. Evident in his Kerouac and Hemingway-inspired tattoos, Marchant believes in crafting compelling narratives for clients, a key aspect of Black Tomato’s research and development trips. Reflecting on the company’s beginnings, he noted the lack of truly inspiring visuals in travel marketing. “It struck me as odd that many travel companies weren’t showcasing the full splendor of travel. You’re trying to excite people about incredible destinations, but the imagery often fell short,” he shared, after capturing drone footage of the Baker River with photographer Llauradó. “My aim is to vividly convey the look and feel of a place, sparking genuine excitement for a trip long before our clients even step onto a plane.” This dedication to immersive storytelling is what sets Black Tomato Travel apart.
The ensuing days were rich with content and exceptional experiences. One morning was spent kayaking down the stunningly blue Cochrane River, followed by a hike dedicated to spotting Patagonia’s famed “big five” wildlife. The group had already sighted pumas, Andean condors, and guanacos, and excitedly recounted a rhea sighting during a brief separation. The elusive huemul deer remained unseen, adding an element of mystery to the adventure. Evenings were filled with delicious meals and fine wine at the Explora restaurant, accompanied by late-night laughter and shared travel passions. The camaraderie with fellow travel enthusiasts was personally rewarding, and professionally, it offered invaluable insight into the meticulous process of crafting a Black Tomato itinerary and the inner workings of this unique travel sector. Departure felt premature, a genuine pang of sadness at leaving the group as they continued their journey to the Atacama Desert.
Reflecting on the journey during the long flight home, the familiar ritual of scrolling through phone photos began. Each image served as an emotional flashcard, attempting to solidify the feelings evoked by the trip into lasting memories. The hike around Lago Chico stood out, beginning with the startlingly loud woodpecker. After four hours of trekking through breathtaking, solitary landscapes, the trail culminated in a small wooden lookout offering panoramic views of a snow-capped lake. The scene was profoundly beautiful and desolate, almost heartbreaking in its serenity. Awaiting them was a surprise picnic – hot soup and cold beers, simple yet perfect. The unexpected delight of this moment, shared in comfortable silence with Marchant and Llauradó, amplified the experience. Before leaving, the photographer articulated the shared sentiment: “It’s an honor and a blessing to be here with both of you right now.” It was undeniably a special, shared moment of profound appreciation.
This extraordinary journey has been transformed into Black Tomato Travel’s latest offering, the “Into the Chilean Wilds” itinerary. This nine-night adventure, starting at $13,325 per person (excluding international flights), includes guided treks, kayaking, and ample opportunities to spot Patagonia’s “big five” while lodging at Explora Patagonia National Park. The itinerary also features a private tour of Santiago, a visit to the Pirque wine region, and two nights in the city at either the Mandarin Oriental, Santiago, or the Hotel Magnolia. The adventure extends to the Atacama Desert with desert excursions like hiking and stargazing, based at the Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa. This Black Tomato Travel experience promises a deep dive into the Chilean wilds, crafted with their signature attention to detail and immersive storytelling.
