Patagonia family

Your gateway to Argentinian Patagonia. This airport serves El Calafate, a town known as the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park.

Check into your accommodation in El Calafate. This town offers a range of hotels and hostels suitable for families.

• Pre-book airport transfers for ease with family.

A peaceful wetland reserve on the shores of Lago Argentino, perfect for a gentle introduction to Patagonian wildlife. It's a great spot for birdwatching, with flamingos, black-necked swans, and various waterfowl.

• Bring binoculars for better wildlife viewing.
• Best visited in the late afternoon for calmer waters and more active birds.

A popular, family-friendly restaurant in El Calafate known for its Patagonian lamb and other grilled meats. It offers a warm atmosphere and hearty meals after a day of travel.

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner.

Travel from El Calafate to the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours by bus or car.

• Consider a guided tour for in-depth information.

Explore the extensive network of boardwalks offering spectacular panoramic views of the glacier's massive ice wall. Listen for the thunderous calving of ice into Lago Argentino, a truly awe-inspiring experience for all ages.

• Wear layers, as weather can change rapidly.
• Allow ample time to walk different sections of the boardwalks.

Take a boat trip to get closer to the glacier's face and witness its sheer scale from water level. This is a thrilling experience, often allowing you to see parts of the glacier not visible from the boardwalks.

• Book this tour in advance, especially during peak season.
• Sit on the side of the boat that faces the glacier for the best views.

Enjoy a meal with a view back in El Calafate. This restaurant offers Patagonian cuisine and is known for its lamb dishes and pleasant ambiance, suitable for families.

• Request a table with a view of Lago Argentino if possible.

Take a scenic bus ride from El Calafate to El Chaltén, the trekking capital of Argentina. The journey is approximately 3 hours and offers stunning views of the Patagonian steppe and mountains.

• Book bus tickets in advance, as they can sell out.
• Sit on the right side of the bus for the best views of Fitz Roy as you approach El Chaltén.

Settle into your accommodation in El Chaltén. Grab a casual lunch at one of the town's many cafes or bakeries.

A short, family-friendly hike offering panoramic views of El Chaltén, the Fitz Roy massif, and the surrounding valleys. It's an excellent introduction to the area's hiking trails and a good spot for photography.

• The trail is well-marked and starts from the National Park visitor center.
• Keep an eye out for condors soaring overhead.

Enjoy local craft beers and hearty meals at this popular spot in El Chaltén. It has a relaxed atmosphere and is a good place for families to unwind after a day of hiking.

• Try the local Patagonian craft beers.

Embark on a moderately challenging hike to Laguna Capri, offering stunning views of the Fitz Roy massif reflected in its clear waters. This trail is a great option for families wanting a taste of longer Patagonian treks.

• Pack snacks, water, and rain gear.
• The trail is well-marked, starting from the northern end of El Chaltén.

Enjoy a packed lunch amidst breathtaking scenery by Laguna Capri. This is a perfect spot to rest and take in the majestic views of Mount Fitz Roy.

• Carry out all trash to preserve the natural beauty.

Descend back to El Chaltén, reflecting on the incredible mountain vistas encountered during the hike.

A relaxed eatery in El Chaltén known for its pizzas and casual vibe. It's a great place for families to refuel with comforting food after a day of hiking.

• Good option for picky eaters.

Travel from El Chaltén, Argentina, to Puerto Natales, Chile. This is a longer travel day, involving border crossing, and takes approximately 6-8 hours including stops.

• Ensure you have all necessary travel documents for border crossing.
• Pack snacks and entertainment for the long journey.

Arrive in Puerto Natales, a charming port town and the main gateway to Torres del Paine National Park. Settle into your accommodation and have a late lunch.

A short drive from Puerto Natales, this viewpoint offers stunning panoramic vistas of the town, Última Esperanza Sound, and the surrounding mountains. It's an accessible spot for families to enjoy sunset.

• Best visited on a clear day for maximum visibility.
• Can be windy, so bring a jacket.

Savor Patagonian and Chilean cuisine at this well-regarded restaurant in Puerto Natales. Known for its fresh seafood and lamb, it offers a cozy atmosphere for families.

• Try the king crab (centolla) if available.

Begin your journey into the magnificent Torres del Paine National Park. The drive from Puerto Natales to the park entrance takes about 1.5-2 hours.

• Pay the park entrance fee upon arrival or book online in advance.

Take a boat tour on Lago Grey to get up close to the stunning Grey Glacier. This excursion offers incredible views of icebergs and the colossal glacier face, a highlight for families.

• Book this tour well in advance, as it's very popular.
• Dress warmly, as it can be cold and windy on the lake.

Stop at this iconic viewpoint for breathtaking views of Lago Pehoé and the Cuernos del Paine (The Horns). It's a classic photo opportunity within the park and easily accessible.

• The colors of the lake and mountains are most vibrant on a clear day.

Enjoy dinner at the restaurant of Hotel Lago Grey, offering views of the lake and surrounding park. It provides a convenient and pleasant dining experience within the park.

• Consider staying overnight at the hotel for easier access to activities.

Visit the powerful Salto Grande waterfall, where the waters of Lago Nordenskjöld cascade into Lake Pehoé. It's a short, easy walk from the parking area and offers impressive views.

• Combine this with a walk to Mirador Cuernos.

A relatively flat, scenic walk from Salto Grande leading to a viewpoint of the iconic 'Horns' (Cuernos del Paine). This trail is family-friendly and offers spectacular perspectives of the park's most famous peaks.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes.
• The path can be muddy after rain.

Enjoy a final Patagonian lunch, either at a cafe within the park or upon returning to Puerto Natales.

Depart from Puerto Natales to Punta Arenas for your onward flight. The transfer takes approximately 3 hours.

• Allow ample time for the transfer and airport procedures.