Have you started to plan this year’s adventures? Consider heading to Patagonia – a place admired for its beautiful natural landscapes. From high mountains to massive glaciers, here you can expect true natural diversity. If you are thinking about visiting the stunning region between Argentina and Chile, here are some tips to help you.
How to get there
Flying from Santiago to Punta Arenas, the entry point to Chilean Patagonia, is the most convenient way to get to the region. It is where most of the departures from nearby carriers land and leave.
There is a significant advantage if you come from North America: Because it is a red-eye flight both ways and in the same time zone, you can make the most of your vacation time without suffering from jet lag. To get to Punta Arenas or Puerto Natales on the Chilean side, you must fly through Santiago.
If you travel to Ushuaia, the South Pole, or on an Antarctica cruise, you will pass through Buenos Aires in Argentina. Also, book earlier than you think you need to if you want to visit during the high season, which runs from October to early May in the Southern Hemisphere. The area gets packed with travelers fast!
How to travel once you arrive
You will need to rent a car upon arrival to reach the attractions in this vast area. This way, you’ll also be able to see the Torres del Paine Park from a different angle than the well-known W circuit.
Why travelers head to Patagonia
Patagonia’s unique combination of lush rainforests and snow-capped mountain peaks continues to awe tourists more than any other top South American destination.
The region is an exceptional place to see, with vast plains and emerald-colored jungles at the very edge of the world. Adventurers and nature lovers alike will find this area a true paradise.
Moreover, Patagonia is one of the world’s most sparsely populated regions, spanning Argentina and Chile. Its vast grassy plains, icy lakes, and sprawling mountainous backdrops are largely unaffected by human activity.
However, do not be deceived into thinking that only the most daring travelers should visit this location. You can enjoy some of Patagonia’s most far-flung and scenic pleasures in incredible style and luxury hidden away in this remote part of the world.
Some of the coolest places in Patagonia
The Fitz Roy Mountain, the Perito Moreno Glacier, the Paine Towers, and the Paine Horns are well-known attractions here.
The Patagonia grey fox, Magellan penguins, and guanacos are endemic to the region and can also be seen up close and personal by visitors.
Discover the edge of the world
Most adventurers prefer to explore the unique region on a luxurious expedition cruise. While there is a lot to see in Patagonia on land, an expedition cruise around the southernmost tip offers a different perspective due to the intricate fjords.
Imagine traveling in warmth and comfort through what appears to be an ever-changing landscape. Be one of a select few who land in some of the world’s most unspoiled and remote locations, including the island of Cape Horn, and wake up to different mountain peaks and glaciers each day.
Torres del Paine National Park
The stunning Torres del Paine Park and its renowned Torres are unquestionably the most important things to do in Chilean Patagonia. Trekkers will find it to be amazing to see.
There are a variety of long, strenuous hikes available, as well as shorter, more manageable ones. In addition, you are free to explore the park in a suitable vehicle. Whether you’re a family, an adventurer, a novice hiker, or an experienced one, you’ll be able to find the best way to take in the beautiful scenery and fresh air at your own pace!
A 7-hour round trip to the Mirador de Las Torres is advisable, and this is a must-stop for all travelers in good physical condition on the park’s iconic trek. Since it is so popular, it can get crowded, but don’t let that discourage you.
Take into account the trek’s west branch (W) takes eight hours round trip. You can get to the Grey viewpoint by taking a catamaran that leaves early from Puedeto and drops you off at Paine Grande. To catch the last catamaran departing, you must return to the dock by 6:00 p.m.
Another must-see site? The region’s glaciers. A cruise to the Balmaceda Glacier or the Grey Glacier will bring you closer to the glaciers, giving you a better chance to see them from a different perspective.
Animal enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the chance to meet Magellanic penguins. It will be a magical memory for both young and old! The small island of Isla Magdalena, where they congregate in large numbers, is the best location to observe the little animals. The only way to get to the nature preserve from Punta Arenas is by boat.
Chilean Fine Dining
Discover the fresh produce and artisan cooking of Patagonian cuisine. Many must know that Patagonia is renowned for its cuisine. When visiting the region, make sure to pay a visit to restaurants serving some of the classical dishes.
King Crab and Empanadas filled with thick lamb stew and tender, slow-roasted lamb over an open flame are two of the most popular dishes in Patagonia.
When to go
Weather
Patagonia, also nicknamed ‘end of the world’, is in the very south of our globe. Even though this feature makes it even more appealing and draws tourists from all over the world, it also implies some climate restrictions.
We recommend visiting this region between October and March when the skies are clear and temperatures are mild. The southern winter, which begins in May and coincides with the opposite of the seasons in North America, is the most popular with tourists.
Right timing
Keep in mind that penguins begin their mating season in September. The crowd is more significant in January and starting at the beginning of February, you can watch the baby chick show! The first months of the year are also when rarer whales arrive.
After the summer, large areas become covered in snow, paths become more difficult to navigate, and driving becomes challenging. The most daring will be able to attempt the adventure on their own until the end of April; after that, you will need a guide.
Keep in mind many hotels and resorts close entirely in the winter.
Pack right
If you ask anyone who lives in Patagonia, they will almost certainly tell you that you often experience all seasons in a single day. Because of this, you need to ensure that you pack properly. The following are a few must-have items:
Warm hat, windproof and waterproof jacket, bathing suit, binoculars, camera, fleece sweater, gloves, layers, a refillable water bottle, trekking or mountain boots, trekking pants, a small daypack, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Luxury hotels in Patagonia
Patagonia is not just for adventure-seekers, it’s also for luxury admirers. On PrivateUpgrades, you’ll find a selection of amazing five-star hotels which are sure to make your stay a memorable one.
For instance, Explora Patagonia will be an excellent pick for those wishing to explore Torres del Paine National Park. Guests here can choose between 40 adventures – either hiking or horseback riding – which allow to discover some of the less-known routes of Patagonia. Prices here start from 1,083 euros per night.
Another fabulous option is The Singular Patagonia, which offers accommodations overlooking the stunning Patagonian Fjords. In its own beautiful way, the hotel builds a special connection between rest and nature. If you’d like to experience it yourself, know the prices here start from 410 euros.
To find more options for hotels in Patagonia, click here. Tierra Patagonia is another fantastic hotel many of our members have tested.
End notes
Patagonia really is unlike any other place in the world. It’s wild, unspoiled, and incredibly beautiful. When traveling to the end of the globe, it’s important to prepare well in advance. If you need help planning your Patagonia adventure, we’re here to help! Get in touch with our team to learn more.
