Patagonia is a wild land full of glaciers, imposing peaks and wildlife that have inspired travelers for years. Home to some of the world’s most dramatic scenery from the glaciers of El Calafate to the granite peaks of Torres del Paine, the wide open expanses of Argentina and Chile’s Patagonia are waiting to be explored.
Dramatic, pristine, wild and rugged are just some of the ways to describe South America’s southern frontier which to a newcomer can somewhat overwhelming due to its sheer enormity and beauty.
Filled with impressive glaciers, imposing peaks and diverse wildlife, Patagonia has inspired travelers for years and the region’s magnificence and splendor can only be fully understood when seen, explored and experienced in person. Explore the region further with some of our favorite highlight destinations in Argentina and Chile’s region of Patagonia.
The towering granite ‘Horns’ of Torres del Paine National Park
♦ Torres del Paine, Chile
As Chile’s most famous national park, the rugged, hard to reach windswept and wild expanse of Torres del Paine is a dramatic adventure waiting to be had. Torres del Paine National Park is often referred to as the 8th Wonder of the World and provides one of the most impressive displays of landscapes in South America.
With its massive granite peaks, expansive glaciers, electric blue glacial lakes and cascading waterfalls; Torres del Paine will capture your attention everywhere you look.
The pointed granite peaks of Los Cuernos del Paine (Horns of Paine) is one of the most defining characteristics of the National Park, rising up to over 8,530 ft these dark tusks are simply spectacular.
It is easy to see why many regard Torres del Paine as the 8th Wonder of the World
♦ Ushuaia, Argentina
Known as the ‘City at the End of the World’, Ushuaia is situated in the region of Tierra del Fuego between snow-covered mountains and fronted by the sea. Although it may not share the same beauty as other towns in Argentina’s Patagonia, the ruggedness of Ushuaia with its colorful houses and sense of being in this isolated part of the world is all part of its charm.
Near to the Beagle Channel which was once the most important sea passage in the world, this historic and southernmost city in the world is matched by few, and staying there is a one of its kind experience.
As well as being able to say that you’ve been to southernmost tip of South America, there are a number of exceptional outdoor activities to enjoy; from hiking and skiing to sailing and kayaking.
Sail along the Beagle Channel passing by the famous Les Éclaireurs lighthouse in Ushuaia
♦ El Calafate, Argentina
On the shores of Lake Argentino, the Patagonian town of El Calafate is the gateway to the magnificent Los Glaciares National Park. The quaint town of El Calafate is surrounded by stunning landscapes and is strategically located about 3.5hours drive from the village of El Chaltén and Mount Fitz Roy and just 6 hours from the equally as spectacular Torres del Paine National Park in Chile.
Although the temperatures in this part of Argentina are on the cooler side, the glacial landscapes surrounding El Calafate are stunning and full of unique travel opportunities.
From sailing along Lake Rico while staring 180 ft up at the Perito Moreno Glacier towering above you to putting on your ice-crampons and exploring the icy-landscape of this 3 mile wide glacier; the romance and interaction with the Patagonian landscape in El Calafate is second to none.
See the beauty & grandeur of the Perito Moreno Glacier near El Calafate
♦ Puerto Madryn, Argentina
Argentina’s second largest port, Puerto Madryn is also the ecological jewel of Peninsula Valdes in Argentina’s region of Patagonia. Although during the summer months, the climate is similar to that of Buenos Aires, the main reason for visiting Puerto Madryn is to spot whales during the winter months especially from July to September.
Founded by Welsh settlers in 1886, the town of Puerto Madryn has a special identity and history to explore as well as surrounding yourself with the luxury of the wildlife on display.
Part of the Peninsula Valdes UNESCO World Heritage Site, the small town of Puerto Madryn facing the Golfo Nuevo provides a special wildlife and everlasting Patagonian experience.
Have an up-close wildlife experience in Puerto Madryn & Peninsula Valdes
♦ El Chaltén, Argentina
Towered over by the 11,170 ft jagged peaks of Mount Fitz Roy and the 10,175 ft Cerro Torre, the small village of El Chaltén is Argentina’s and Patagonia’s trekking capital.
Situated near to the Los Glaciares National Park, the area surrounding the enchanting village of El Chaltén is made up of World Heritage glaciers, dramatic mountainous landscapes, glacial lakes and waterfalls.
El Chaltén provides travelers with a comfortable yet down-to-earth Patagonia experience where they can explore the breath-taking scenery of Patagonia, its plentiful mountain trails and to unplug from the world.
Mount Fitz Roy has turned El Chaltén into one of the hiking capitals of Patagonia
Thanks for visiting our Central & South America Travel Blog! Feel free to contact one of our Travel Specialists via email, phone or chat to plan your perfect Patagonia itinerary.
