Patagonia Travel Insights

Active Patagonia: Torres del Paine & Los Glaciares National Parks - 10 Days

Trek across Patagonia's glacial landscapes on this 10-day rugged journey through the UNESCO-listed Torres del Paine and Los Glaciares National Parks. Starting in the Chilean town of Puerto Natales, you'll follow the famous W Trek through Torres del Paine's soaring mountains before hopping over the border to Argentina. Spend a day in El Calafate to experience the towering ice walls of Perito Moreno, then base yourself in the village of El Chaltén to discover the vast glaciers and turquoise lakes of Los Glaciares.

Wildlife and Culture in Argentina - 10 Days

Combining city tours and tango performances in Buenos Aires with treks through Tierra del Fuego National Park at the "End of the World", this trip is an excellent blend of nature and culture. The focus is on wildlife sightings, with whale-watching excursions near Peninsula Vales and visits to the largest sea lion and elephant seal colonies in the region. You'll cruise along the famous Beagle Channel and canoe rivers to reach Lapataia Bay, plus visit regional museums and walk with penguins on Martillo Island.

Chilean & Argentine Patagonia: Active Multi-Sport Adventure Tour - 11 Days

This active 11-day itinerary combines Patagonia's most stunning landscapes with thrilling excursions to create a perfect tour for the adventurous at heart. Start in Chile, where you'll spot dolphins on the Magellan Strait, hike to the famous granite towers of Torres del Paine National Park, and kayak past icebergs on the beautiful Lago Grey. Hop over to Argentina to see the dramatic Perito Moreno glacier by boat, hike to the magnificent Mount Fitz Roy, and go ice trekking in Los Glaciares National Park.

Active Patagonia: Los Glaciares & Torres del Paine National Parks - 8 Days

This active trip around Patagonia features adventures in two of South America's top national parks. Start off in Argentine Patagonia with several days in Los Glaciares National Park, home to dozens of glaciers and the iconic Mount Fitz Roy. Continue to Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia to see snow-capped peaks, thundering waterfalls, turquoise lakes, and some of the most magnificent scenery in the world.

An Active Tour of Chile: Santiago, Valparaíso, & Torres del Paine - 9 Days

Explore the best of Chile's urban and natural landscapes on this nine-day adventure. Begin in the capital city of Santiago. Explore modern Chilean culture while visiting the markets, skyscrapers, and parks. Next, head to Valparaíso, the bohemian port town that features bright graffiti and classic architecture. Enjoy a visit to the Maipo Valley to take in its stunning mountain landscapes while sipping Chilean wine. Then, venture south to Patagonia for a visit to Torres del Paine National Park—one of the most famous and beautiful protected areas in the world.

2 Weeks in Patagonia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks in Patagonia, you could stick to one side—Argentina or Chile—or visit both. First-timers can hit the highlights in southern Patagonia, including Los Glaciares National Park. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy bird-watching in Alerce Andino National Park and searching for cougars in Torres del Paine National Park. Experienced hikers can escape the crowds on the "O" Circuit, and travelers eager to visit the "End of the World" (where you'll find penguin colonies and glacier hikes) should head for Ushuaia.

10 Days in Patagonia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days in Patagonia, there's enough time to tick off the must-see landscapes of Los Glaciares and Torres del Paine National Parks on a highlights tour. You can also focus your time on Argentina, which allows you to include Bariloche on your itinerary, or hit the trails of Chile and spend eight days conquering the epic O Circuit and W Trek. Alternatively, opt for a more leisurely tour featuring a multi-day fjord cruise in Tierra del Fuego.

1 Week in Patagonia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With a week to spend in Patagonia, it's easy to plan a trip around your interests. Trekkers can hit the trails among the granite peaks of Torres del Paine. Outdoor enthusiasts will love visiting the famed Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park. For wildlife, head to Punta Arenas and visit an island home to a colony of Magellanic penguins. Learn more about your options in our roundup below.

5 Days in Patagonia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With five days, you'll want to focus on one region of Patagonia. Pay a visit to Perito Moreno in Los Glaciares National Park, road trip the Carretera Austral, make a whirlwind circuit through Torres del Paine, or step just outside of Patagonia to southern Chile's incredible Lake District.

Patagonia FAQ

Patagonia is the dream destination for any outdoor enthusiast. It encompasses 402,700 miles of wilderness in both Chile and Argentina, every inch abounding with mountains, glaciers, and near endless expanses of steppe grassland. There's a lot to see and do here—read this FAQ to get your questions answered.

Patagonia in July: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

July is winter season in Patagonia, and that means ski resorts are open for business and local snow festivals are underway. Low tourist numbers and prices appeal to the adventurous (and those equipped with outdoor gear). Read on for more tips on where to go and what to expect in Patagonia this month.

Patagonia in August: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

A quiet month overall, August signifies the last full month of Patagonia's ski season with lower prices than July. Everywhere else, winter rains begin to wane while daylight hours begin to lengthen—a sure sign of spring. Read this monthly guide to learn more.

Patagonia in September: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

September is a transition month in Patagonia, when the region comes out of hibernation in preparation for the upcoming high season. This is also the best time for spring skiing at the mountain resorts and whale watching around Península Valdés. Read this monthly guide to learn more.

Patagonia in October: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

October in Patagonia is the heart of spring and prime shoulder season—a great time to visit the region's most popular spots before peak crowds arrive. Hint: This is a favorite month for savvy travelers in the know. Read on to learn more.

Patagonia in November: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

With springtime blooms, November is a beautiful month in Patagonia—arguably the best of the year. If that's not enough, you can visit popular sites and national parks while the crowds and high prices are still a month away. Read this monthly guide to learn more.

Patagonia in December: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The transition from spring to summer is a spectacular time to visit Patagonia with plenty of sunshine for enjoying the great outdoors. Plus, the first half of the month is still quiet—in other words, get here before the tour groups arrive for the holidays. Find out what to do and where to go with this December guide.

Patagonia in June: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

With the onset of winter, snowcapped Patagonia practically empties out in terms of tourism for the season (except for ski resorts). Let this monthly guide show you the best sights and culture during the shortest days of the year.

Patagonia in May: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

It’s late autumn in Patagonia with shorter days, cooler weather, and waning crowds. This is a great time to enjoy the last of the autumn foliage and spectacular landscapes in peace before winter (and ski season) arrives. Read this monthly guide to learn more.

Patagonia in April: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Autumn is in full swing this time of year in Patagonia with cooling temperatures and fiery colors. Crowds thin out across the region making this a great time to visit with decent hiking weather and lower prices (except for Easter week). Let this monthly guide help you find the best places to visit and things to do.

Patagonia in March: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

March is a great time to travel to Patagonia for the first glimpses of autumn. This is when crowds and prices beginning to taper off, making popular national parks like Torres del Paine and Los Glaciares, more peaceful. Read on to learn more.

Patagonia in February: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

February is the last full month of Patagonia's high season with peak temperatures and longish days of summer—perfect for all sorts of outdoor adventures that capitalize on the views. Despite peak crowds and prices, this is a wonderful time to visit. Let this monthly guide help you find the best places to visit and things to do.

Patagonia in January: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

January in one of the best months of the year to visit Patagonia and the crowds confirm it. This is peak season for international tourists who come to see glaciers, wildlife, and national parks with warmer temperatures and longer days for enjoying outdoor activities. This monthly guide will tell you what to do and where to go, including lesser-known options.

Going Off the Beaten Path in Patagonia: 5 Places to Know

Come for the whale-watching and national parks, stay for the charming Welsh towns, little-known hot springs, and far-flung marble caves. Patagonia is huge, and while the classic attractions shouldn't be missed, there's plenty to see and do off the beaten path, from hiking to ancient cave art to sleeping beside a glacier.

Ultimate Guide to Puerto Madryn: Wildlife Hub of Argentine Patagonia

Overlooking the sheltered waters of the Golfo Nuevo, this fast-growing city is the main tourist hub in Argentine Patagonia. It's the perfect base for visiting the internationally renowned Península Valdés marine reserve—famous for southern right whales—and exploring the region’s Welsh heritage. This guide will help you plan your trip and find the best that Puerto Madryn has to offer.

Discover Patagonia's Best Hiking Trails - 14 Days

This adventurous 14-day trip highlights Patagonia's best hiking trails! Explore some of the most spectacular scenery in the world, starting on the Argentine side, with a quick visit to Buenos Aires followed by several days in Los Glaciares National Park. Trek on a glacier and enjoy the trails around El Chaltén, the country's trekking capital, before crossing the border to Chile and Torres del Paine National Park. Discover the region's dramatic landscapes on day hikes, resting each night at lodgings in the park.

Explore the Highlights of Southern Patagonia - 14 Days

See the best of southern Patagonia on this on this two-week adventure! Begin with a day in Buenos Aires before flying south to El Calafate, the gateway to Perito Moreno Glacier and Los Glaciares National Park. Then cross the border to Chile for several days of hiking and boating in Torres del Paine National Park. Finally, you'll travel to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world and the capital of Tierra del Fuego, for ice trekking and an excursion to see penguins in the wild.

Hike the "O" Trek in Torres del Paine National Park - 14 Days

This two-week itinerary in Chilean Patagonia is perfect for outdoor adventurers! After sightseeing in Santiago, fly to Punta Arenas, where you'll base yourself for a few days as you explore a penguin colony and Bernardo O'Higgins National Park. Continue to Puerto Natales, the gateway to Torres del Paine National Park. You'll spend the rest of the trip hiking and camping through remote sections of the park on the Paine Massif Circuit ("O"), a more challenging option than its famous sister trek (known as the "W").

Best Time of Year to Visit Patagonia

In Patagonia, as the old saying goes, you can experience four seasons in a single day. It's true that you should pack for sun, cold, rain, and snow—but in reality, the seasons here differ greatly with respect to crowds, prices, and wildlife. Read on for more about whale watching in the spring months, winter skiing, fall foliage photography, and summertime treks in some of the world's best national parks.

Traveler Interview: Hiking & Highlights in Argentine Patagonia

Patagonia is an epic destination, perfect for celebrating a milestone—and for Peter Bonnell's 40th birthday, he did just that. His group toured the Perito Moreno Glacier, paddled through Ushuaia National Park, and did plenty of trekking around El Chaltén with trailside views of iconic peaks and glacial lakes. Hear more about Peter's adventure and check out his photos below.

Classic Argentine Patagonia - 13 Days

This 13-day tour of Argentina's far south covers the classics. Starting in Buenos Aires, you'll fly to Patagonia for a range of outdoor activities and wildlife. On the itinerary are two national parks: Tierra del Fuego (rivers and ancient settlements) and Los Glaciares (glaciers and iconic mountains). There's also whale watching and a visit to South America´s largest Magellanic Penguin colony for the ultimate photo ops.

Trekking in Chilean & Argentine Patagonia - 15 Days

Experience the best treks in Patagonia on this 15-day adventure, including two UNESCO-listed national parks. Start off in Argentina's Los Glaciares with 13 major glaciers and the iconic Mt. Fitz Roy. Across the border, you'll take the "W Trek" in Chile's Torres del Paine for snow-capped peaks, thundering waterfalls, and turquoise lakes. Kick off the whole trip in Buenos Aires for some big-city culture.

Torres del Paine & Última Esperanza - 12 Days

Few places in the world are more coveted as a trekking destination than Torres del Paine National Park. Located in Chilean Patagonia, this protected mountain wilderness is open to anyone looking for outdoor adventure. Accomplish the highlights on this 12-day trip, including waterfalls, glaciers, and enormous peaks. You'll also visit Última Esperanza Sound for fjord tours, kayaking, and a cave with 11,000 years of history.

Relaxing Adventure in Patagonia - 12 Days

This exciting 12-day itinerary takes you to the key highlights of Argentinian and Chilean Patagonia. After a day in Chile's capital city, fly south to Puerto Natales. From there, you'll day-trip to a ranch for horseback riding and venture into Torres del Paine, one of the most famous national parks in the world. Spend three days exploring the park, sleeping in a private yurt at a luxury camp. Then cross the border to see the best glaciers in Argentina and enjoy unforgettable excursions by boat and 4WD vehicle.

Outdoor Adventures in Patagonia's National Parks - 11 Days

Spot penguins in the wild, boat to a remote glacier, and hike through spectacular mountain scenery on this action-packed 11-day itinerary around Patagonia. After a day in Buenos Aires, fly to Ushuaia and explore Tierra del Fuego National Park. Then continue to El Calafate, the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park. Finally, cross the border to Chile to discover the natural wonders of Torres del Paine and Bernardo O'Higgins National Parks.

Chile's Puerto Varas & W Trek - 11 Days

This 11-day adventure combines sightseeing in central Chile with a multi-day trek in Patagonia's most scenic national park. Kicking off in Santiago, you'll head to a German-style village known for its volcano views and breweries before continuing south to Torres del Paine for the W Trek. Here, you'll hike past turquoise lakes, emerald forests, roaring rivers, and a massive glacier to get to the best view in the house: Paine Massif.

Trekking in Chilean & Argentine Patagonia - 12 Days

Chile and Argentina's far south is a trekker’s dream. This is where Patagonia's craggy mountains, massive glaciers, and rushing waterfalls create countless opportunities for exploration on foot. After a day in Buenos Aires, head to Los Glaciares National Park for some ice trekking on Perito Moreno, a glacier that is actually advancing. You'll then head to Torres del Paine—the crown jewel of national parks in Patagonia—for a multi-day hike through Grey Glacier, French Valley, and the imposing towers of Las Torres.

Wonders of Chilean Patagonia - 10 Days

This 10-day tour combines Chile's most picturesque attractions with a nice mix of relaxation and physical exertion. After starting in the cosmopolitan capital, you'll head to a lakeside village (adorned with a snowcapped volcano) before continuing south to Patagonia. Then it's time for the "W Trek" in Torres del Paine, one of the most scenic national parks in the world. Here you'll hike past turquoise lakes, emerald forests, roaring rivers, and a massive glacier to get to the best view in the house: Paine Massif.

Hiking in Argentine Patagonia - 10 Days

Argentina, particularly the Patagonia region, offers some of the continent's best hiking opportunities, and this 10-day trip hits the top three spots. Starting in Buenos Aires, you'll head to El Calafate for ice trekking on an advancing glacier. Next is El Chaltén, Argentina's ground zero for iconic peaks like Mount Fitz Roy. Finish in Bariloche—a Swiss-rooted hub in the Lake District offering a plethora of trails and chocolate shops.

Patagonia Multi-Sport Adventure - 10 Days

This 10-day itinerary combines outdoor activities in Argentina and Chile's deep south. After a day in Buenos Aires, head to Los Glaciares National Park for some ice trekking on a major glacier. Next is an overnight hiking trip to Chile's Torres del Paine National Park. You'll finish in Argentina's El Chaltén—home of Mt. Fitz Roy and craft-beer bars—and complete a rock climbing course (there's no better place to learn!)

Active Chilean Patagonia Adventure in Torres del Paine National Park - 8 Days

Experience the splendor of Torres del Paine National Park—plus the colorful capital city of Santiago and a working Patagonian ranch—on this outdoorsy eight-day itinerary. Start with a day of sightseeing in Santiago, then travel to the quaint port town of Puerto Natales. Get an early start to enter the national park and spend four days hiking the famed "W" Trek. Then wrap up the adventure with a day trip to a traditional sheep ranch on the remote Antonio Veras Peninsula, only accessible by boat.

Torres del Paine & El Calafate - 8 Days

Deep south of Chile and Argentina, this 8-day itinerary explores some of the most magnificent scenery in the world. First, head to Chilean Patagonia's Torres del Paine for snow-capped peaks and thundering waterfalls. Next, bus to Argentine Patagonia for a glacier hike and other activities while based in El Calafate—a traveler hub with a range of services. Kick off the whole trip in Santiago for a taste of big-city culture.

Torres del Paine "O" Circuit Adventure - 11 Days

This 11-day trip achieves the Paine Massif Circuit—commonly called the "O"—in Chile's Torres del Paine National Park. More adventurous than its sister trek, the "W" (which follows a portion of this trek), the "O" is suited for those seeking a lesser-visited and more challenging route. You'll also get two nights in Puerto Natales and an arrival day in Chile's capital with just enough time to check out the sites.

Patagonia's W Trek & Marble Caves - 15 Days

This 15-day itinerary packs a lot of punch for those keen on experiencing as much Chilean nature as possible. Start off with some urban culture before flying south to frolic with thousands of penguins. Next, you’ll spend several days trekking in one of the most beautiful national parks in the world. Finish in northern Patagonia's Aysén region for glaciers and marble cave formations you won't soon forget.

Santiago & Patagonia Exploration - 13 Days

Few other places in the world can compete with Patagonia's wild, jagged mountains and enormous panoramas. With this 13-day adventure, you'll get the best of the region—in both countries—starting with Chilean Patagonia. Here, you'll partake in the famed W Trek, a multiday hike that covers the furthest reaches of Torres del Paine. Then, bus over to Argentine Patagonia for ancient glaciers and the iconic Mount Fitz Roy. Kick off the adventure in Chile's capital for a dose of big-city culture.

Los Glaciares & Torres del Paine - 8 Days

This active trip highlights two UNESCO-listed parks in South America with some of the most magnificent scenery in the world. Start off in Argentine Patagonia for several days in Los Glaciares National Park—home to a whopping 13 major glaciers and the iconic Mt. Fitz Roy. Next is Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia for snow-capped peaks, thundering waterfalls, and turquoise lakes. Kick off the adventure in Buenos Aires for a taste of big-city culture.

Torres del Paine Relaxed Adventure - 6 Days

This itinerary covers a lot of ground in less than a week yet sticks to a relaxed pace. After a day exploring Santiago, fly south to Torres del Paine—one of the most famous national parks in the world. Here, you'll stay two nights at a luxury eco-camp for a range of outdoor activities that capitalize on the views. As an added bonus, you'll visit a working Patagonian ranch for the ultimate taste of local culture.

Multi-Day Hiking in Torres del Paine - 7 Days

This weeklong itinerary highlights Torres del Paine National Park for a once-in-a-lifetime hiking trip in Patagonia. After a day to explore Chile's capital, fly south to experience the park's nearly 450,000 acres of glaciers, ice fields, forests, lakes, and rugged mountains that will get your heart racing. Your jumping on/off point will be Puerto Natales—a port city attracting trekkers from all over the world.

Marble Caves & Carretera Austral - 5 Days

Chile is chock-full of distinct natural wonders. Case in point, the otherworldly marble caves of the unspoiled Aysén region, in Chilean Patagonia. On this five-day jaunt, you'll visit these geological formations, along with massive glaciers and marine life in Laguna San Rafael National Park. Round out the adventure with a night in Santiago for a dose of cosmopolitan cuisine and culture.

Patagonia's Navarinos Teeth Trek - 7 Days

This weeklong adventure highlights an important trail on the very tip of South America. Part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve called Cabo de Hornos, Chile’s Navarino Island is the home to human settlements of Yagan people—one of the last native groups on the continent. After getting a taste of urban Santiago, fly south for a four-day guided trek while experiencing a range of Sub-Antarctic ecological wonders.

Patagonia Wildlife Adventure - 6 Days

This in-depth itinerary allows you to go deeper into Torres del Paine National Park than most have an opportunity to. Over six days you'll get an up-close view of the local wildlife on guided tours, visit a working Patagonian estancia (ranch), and even explore the Strait of Magellan on a hair-raising zodiac excursion. It's a naturalist's dream and an adventure you won't soon forget.