Our love for nature can sometimes take its toll. Our visit will always have an impact; what matters is keeping it to a minimum. Today, affected areas suffer from trash, invasive species, habituated wildlife, trail erosion, polluted water sources and more. While most of us don't intend to harm our natural surroundings, we may lack the knowledge to preserve them, or we may simply be overlooking some important behaviors.
At Puma Adventures, our dedication to conservation and sustainability is reflected in our commitment to the "Leave No Trace" Principles; as Master Educators, we incorporate and put these seven principles into practice in all our activities. We believe that by teaching and promoting these principles, we can help build a community that's aware of and committed to protecting the environment, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the beauty of nature.
Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints, kill nothing but time.
Marteen Schäfer
The 7 Leave No Trace Principles
Leave No Trace is a pioneer in the science and offers proven, research-based solutions for protecting the natural world.
1. Plan ahead and prepare
This principle means researching and planning your trip to minimize impacts. That includes knowing the area's regulations, carrying proper gear and preparing for extreme conditions or emergencies.
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces
It means using established trails and campsites to avoid damaging plants and wildlife. Where there are no trails, it's better to walk on durable surfaces like rock, gravel or snow.
3. Dispose of waste properly
This principle stresses the importance of packing out all trash, including organic waste like fruit peels, and using proper toilet facilities or, if there are none, burying human waste at an adequate depth.
4. Leave what you find
It aims to preserve the natural state of the environment, avoiding taking rocks, plants, historical artifacts and other natural or cultural objects. It also includes not building structures or altering the surroundings.
5. Minimize campfire impacts
Campfires can cause lasting damage, so it's better to use portable stoves for cooking. If you do make a fire, use existing fire rings, burn only small wood that can be broken by hand and make sure to put the fire out completely.
6. Respect wildlife and plants
Observe wildlife from a distance, avoid feeding animals, control pets and avoid disturbing wildlife, especially during breeding and hibernation.
7. Be considerate of other visitors
Respecting others means keeping noise to a minimum, yielding on trails, camping away from other groups and respecting other people's experience of nature.
At Puma Adventures, we don't just follow these principles; we also strive to educate and empower our clients to become ambassadors of these practices. We believe that by sharing this knowledge, we contribute to a community of responsible travelers, passionate about protecting Chile's wonderful landscapes.
We invite you to be part of our exciting and respectful adventures. By choosing us, you'll not only live an unforgettable experience in some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, but you'll also help protect these natural treasures for future generations.
Practice what you read
Experience the mountains responsibly
Guided trips that apply these principles in the field: small groups, certified guides and respect for every trail.
Want to teach them to others? Train with the Leave No Trace Trainer Certification (NOLS).