Proposal on the O Trek: A Patagonia Engagement Story

As a professional adventure elopement photographer, I travel the world capturing love stories in epic locations. When I traveled to Torres del Paine, Patagonia, to photograph an elopement recently, my husband and I decided to take on the legendary “O Trek” (also known as the “O Circuit”), an eight-day backpacking journey through one of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth. Of course, as a photographer, I carried my professional camera with me. While the camera gear was heavy, I knew it would be worth it to document not only our adventure but also the incredible moments we would witness along the way. I did not know that one of these incredible moments would be a Patagonia engagement!

During the trek, we met Phoebe and Jerry, a fun-loving couple from California. Phoebe, a dedicated nurse, and Jerry, a fearless firefighter, had traveled to Patagonia for this once-in-a-lifetime hiking experience. With the O Trek’s limited daily permits, we quickly became friends with the few other hikers on the trek. We warmed up with tea at breakfast and recounted our adventures over dinner in the refugios together. One night, we even ended up as roommates, swapping stories and laughter as we rested for the next day’s hike.

On day six of the trek, Jerry knew it was the right moment to propose. Not only because of the breathtaking scenery and the romance of the remote wilderness, but also because he had accidentally broken the ring case that morning and was now carrying a loose engagement ring in his pocket. With Patagonia’s infamous winds and endless rocky trails, he knew the ring would be much safer on Phoebe’s finger! After hiking up to the stunning 360-degree views of Mirador Británico, he knelt down on one knee and asked Phoebe to marry him amid the jagged peaks and sweeping views of the French Valley. She said yes, of course! It was an unforgettable moment, surrounded by the raw beauty of Torres del Paine, with only the vast wilderness as their witness.

The next evening, we set out to capture their engagement with an impromptu photo session that truly showcased the magic of Patagonia. The dramatic peaks and rugged terrain made for an incredible backdrop. Phoebe and Jerry’s love, laughter, and deep connection were evident in every shot. Their adventurous spirits shone through, making their engagement session as breathtaking as the landscape itself.

After our session, we celebrated in true Patagonia style with champagne, calafate sours, laughter, and the newfound friends we had made along the trail. There’s something special about sharing such an experience with fellow adventurers. The O Trek isn’t just a hike—it’s a journey that bonds people, a testament to the beauty of human connection, and, in Phoebe and Jerry’s case, the next chapter of their lifetime adventure.

If you’re planning an unforgettable proposal, elopement, or other special event, hiring an experienced adventure photographer ensures that your unforgettable moments are beautifully captured. Whether you’re trekking deep into Torres del Paine, exchanging vows in a remote valley, or celebrating with loved ones under the Patagonian vistas, I’m here to document your love story in the most breathtaking way possible. Some of the most stunning places to propose include Mirador Las Torres Base, Glacier Grey, French Valley, and the shores of Lago Nordenskjöld. If you’re dreaming of an adventure-filled engagement or looking to elope in Patagonia, let’s make it happen!