Patagonia a week

Your gateway to Argentinian Patagonia. Upon arrival, pick up your rental car or arrange for your transfer to your accommodation.

A remote estancia accessible by boat, offering stunning views of the Upsala Glacier and Patagonian steppe. Enjoy a guided excursion or hike to a viewpoint.

• Book the boat trip in advance.
• Wear layers as the weather can change rapidly.

A classic Patagonian restaurant famous for its lamb barbecue ('cordero patagónico'). A must-try for an authentic local dining experience.

Witness the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the few advancing glaciers in the world. Walk along the extensive boardwalks for panoramic views and listen to the thunderous calving of ice.

• Arrive early to avoid crowds.
• Bring binoculars for closer views of the ice.

A boat tour that takes you close to the southern face of the Perito Moreno Glacier. Offers a unique perspective of its immense scale and the calving ice.

• Sit on the side facing the glacier for the best photos.
• The spray from the ice can make things wet; consider a waterproof jacket.

Learn about the formation and ecology of the Patagonian glaciers. The visitor center provides valuable context for your glacial experience.

Enjoy delicious Patagonian cuisine cooked on a 'disco' (plow disc). Known for its hearty stews and grilled dishes.

Drive from El Calafate to El Chaltén, the trekking capital of Argentina. The scenic drive offers vast steppe landscapes and distant mountain views.

A short, rewarding hike offering panoramic views of El Chaltén village, the Fitz Roy massif (weather permitting), and the surrounding valleys. Excellent for spotting condors.

• Best visited in the morning or late afternoon for soft light.
• Keep an eye out for the majestic Andean condors.

A moderate hike leading to Laguna Capri, a beautiful glacial lake with stunning reflections of the Fitz Roy peaks. This is a good introduction to El Chaltén's trails.

• Carry plenty of water and snacks.
• The trail can be muddy after rain.

Enjoy craft beers brewed locally and a menu of hearty meals. A popular spot for hikers to relax and refuel.

The iconic full-day trek to Laguna de los Tres, offering unparalleled close-up views of Mount Fitz Roy. This challenging hike is a highlight for any Patagonia visitor.

• Start very early, ideally before sunrise for dramatic light.
• The final ascent is steep and strenuous; good physical condition is required.

Enjoy a packed lunch at a scenic spot along the trail, surrounded by the majestic Patagonian landscape. This is a moment to savor the natural beauty.

A cozy restaurant offering delicious grilled meats and local specialties. Perfect for a well-deserved dinner after a long day of hiking.

Hike to Laguna Torre, a glacial lake at the base of the dramatic Cerro Torre peak. This trail is less strenuous than Laguna de los Tres but equally rewarding.

• The trail offers constant views of the jagged peaks.
• Icebergs often float in Laguna Torre.

Grab a quick and satisfying lunch in El Chaltén before your onward journey. Options range from empanadas to sandwiches.

Begin your journey to Puerto Natales, the gateway to Torres del Paine National Park. This involves a bus ride across the border.

Enjoy a delightful dinner in Puerto Natales. This restaurant offers a fusion of Patagonian and African flavors in a cozy setting.

Travel from Puerto Natales to Torres del Paine National Park. The park entrance is about 1.5-2 hours away.

• Ensure your park entrance fee is paid in advance or upon arrival.
• Consider a guided tour if you prefer not to drive.

Embark on the challenging but iconic trek to the Base of the Towers, the park's most famous viewpoint. The final ascent is steep and rocky.

• The weather can be extreme; be prepared for wind and rain.
• Bring trekking poles to help with the steep sections.

Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the breathtaking scenery of Torres del Paine. This is a chance to absorb the grandeur of the granite towers.

Return to Puerto Natales for a well-deserved dinner. This restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious meals.

If time permits and you are staying near Lake Grey, consider a boat tour on Lago Grey to see the Grey Glacier up close. This offers a different perspective on glacial landscapes.

• Book this tour well in advance.
• Dress warmly, as it can be very cold on the water.

Before departing Torres del Paine, make a stop at Laguna Amarga. This saline lagoon is a prime spot for birdwatching and often has guanacos grazing nearby.

• Look for flamingos and other waterfowl.
• Guanacos are common here, especially in the early morning.

Spend some time exploring the charming waterfront of Puerto Natales. You can find local crafts and enjoy a final Patagonian meal.

Depart from Punta Arenas Airport, the closest major airport to Puerto Natales, for your onward journey.