Patagonia family

Your gateway to Argentinian Patagonia. This airport is small but efficient, serving as the primary entry point for exploring Los Glaciares National Park.

Settle into your hotel and enjoy a family-friendly lunch. This mid-range option offers comfortable accommodations and a restaurant serving local Patagonian cuisine.

• Try the Patagonian lamb.

An interactive museum dedicated to the glaciers of Patagonia. It offers an excellent introduction to the ice fields, their formation, and their importance, with exhibits suitable for all ages.

• The ice bar inside is a fun, cold experience for older kids and adults.

Enjoy a traditional Patagonian 'asado' (barbecue) for dinner. This popular restaurant is known for its excellent grilled meats and lively atmosphere, perfect for families.

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season.

Embark on a scenic bus journey to the Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the few advancing glaciers in the world. The route offers stunning views of the Patagonian steppe and Lake Argentino.

• Pack snacks and drinks, as options at the glacier can be limited and expensive.

Explore the extensive network of boardwalks offering multiple perspectives of the colossal glacier. Listen for the thunderous calving of ice and witness the sheer scale of this natural wonder.

• Wear layers, as the weather can change rapidly and the wind can be strong.

For an unforgettable experience, join a guided mini-trek directly on the glacier. This involves a boat ride across the lake and a guided walk with crampons on the ice, suitable for families with older children (age restrictions apply).

• Check age and physical requirements beforehand. Book well in advance.

Return to El Calafate and enjoy a relaxed dinner. Consider a place offering local trout or pasta dishes, catering to a variety of family tastes.

Take a scenic bus ride to El Chaltén, the trekking capital of Argentina. The journey offers more breathtaking views of the Patagonian landscape.

• Book bus tickets in advance, as they can sell out.

Check into your accommodation and have lunch at a local eatery. El Chaltén has many charming cafes and restaurants catering to hikers.

A gentle, family-friendly hike (approx. 1 hour round trip) to a lovely waterfall. It's a great introduction to El Chaltén's trails, with minimal elevation gain and beautiful scenery.

• The trail is well-maintained and suitable for strollers in most parts.

Enjoy dinner at a casual restaurant known for its craft beer and hearty meals. It's a relaxed spot perfect for refueling after a day of travel and light hiking.

Embark on a moderate hike to Laguna Capri, offering stunning views of the iconic Mount Fitz Roy. The trail is well-marked and traverses beautiful lenga forests.

• This hike is approximately 8 km round trip and can be challenging for very young children, but rewarding.
• Pack plenty of water and snacks.

Enjoy a packed lunch with a spectacular backdrop. The tranquility of Laguna Capri makes it an ideal spot for a family picnic.

• Ensure you pack out all your trash.

A shorter, easier hike (approx. 1 hour round trip) offering panoramic views of the valley and surrounding peaks. It's a great spot for birdwatching, especially condors.

• Good option for a less strenuous afternoon activity.

A casual and family-friendly pizza place for dinner. It's a reliable choice for satisfying everyone's appetite after a day of hiking.

Begin your journey to Chilean Patagonia with a bus transfer to Puerto Natales. This is a longer travel day, crossing the border.

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

A brief stop will be made during the bus journey for lunch at a roadside restaurant. Options are typically basic but sufficient.

Arrive in Puerto Natales, check into your hotel, and have a late lunch. This hotel offers comfortable lodging and a restaurant with local flavors.

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant known for its fusion cuisine, combining Patagonian ingredients with African influences. It's a unique culinary experience in Puerto Natales.

• Try their seafood dishes.

Take a guided tour to the iconic Torres del Paine National Park. This comprehensive tour visits key viewpoints, including Lago Nordenskjöld, Salto Grande waterfall, and the shores of Lago Pehoé.

• Park entrance fees are usually included in guided tours, but confirm this when booking.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring rain gear.

Enjoy a pre-arranged lunch as part of your tour, typically at a visitor center or a park restaurant. These offer basic but filling meals.

The tour often includes a stop at a viewpoint offering views of the massive Grey Glacier and its icebergs floating in Lago Grey.

Return to Puerto Natales for dinner. Consider trying a local seafood specialty like king crab (centolla).

Travel by bus from Puerto Natales to Punta Arenas, the region's largest city and the location of the airport for departure.

• Book bus tickets in advance.

Have a final Patagonian lunch in Punta Arenas before heading to the airport. Enjoy some local flavors one last time.

Depart from Punta Arenas, concluding your Patagonian adventure.