Cem 

South America Guide

With nearly 20 years of guiding under his belt, Cem’s seen it all — and knows how to handle just about anything the trail throws his way. Born and raised in Turkey, he started guiding at 18, leading rafting and sea kayaking trips before swapping paddles for hiking boots when he moved to Chile in 2005. Since then, the mountains have been his second home, and he brings that steady experience, calm energy, and care to every trip.

We are so lucky to have Cem on board as part of the Active Adventures team. When he's not guiding (which isn't much of the time by the sound of his busy life!) Cem can be found listening to music, cooking, and enjoying carpentry work.

What's your favorite travel destination? 

It's definitely South America. Very diverse in any sense, but also lately I have done lots of hiking in the French Alps so that's becoming another favorite :) 

What's your favorite adventure activity and why? 

I love the W Trek hike in Torres del Paine National Park. It is the most scenic hike ever.

What has been your most inspiring adventure experience? 

I remember getting stuck for four days in a blizzard on the Southern Patagonian ice field. We had looots of snow :)

What's your favorite Active Adventures trip, and why? 

So far my favorite would have to be the Patagonia Hiking Adventure. I would love to go on an Active Adventures trip in the Himalayas or Europe some day! 

When did you first get the travel bug? 

When I was 20 I had my first big trip. I traveled to Ecuador for 4 months and explored the whole country while trying to learn some Spanish!

What destination would you most like to travel to (that you haven't been to yet)?

Nepal is definitely on the list. I also want to travel to Africa for the wildlife.

Do you have any favorite hobbies or special talents you could tell us about?

Outdoors of course! I spend lots of time hiking/biking/kayaking on my free time. At home, it's mostly about carpentry and cooking. I also love plants, and spending time planting in my garden during Spring. My 'Special Talent' is carpentry and woodwork.

What our guests say about Cem...

“Cem has been very attentive and caring, helpful, patient and encouraging.”
- Ami O. (California, United States), Patagonia Hiking Adventure

“Cam was great. Patience, kind, thoughtful, all the qualities you want in a guide.”
- Renee W. (Virginia, United States), Patagonia Hiking Adventure

“Cem was organized, responsive, even-tempered, knowledgeable and fun. He was a fantastic guide and I have nothing but positive things to say about him. When I wasn't feeling well one day, he made sure I was doing well”
- Amy L. (Massachusetts, United States), Patagonia Hiking Adventure