Patagonia Tours, Treks, & Cruises

The Best Time to Visit Patagonia
The best time to go to Patagonia depends on your interests and the type of experience you desire. Whether you prefer the blooming beauty of spring, the activity-packed days of summer, the tranquil landscapes of autumn, or the wintery solitude of snow-covered Patagonia, this diverse region offers something remarkable throughout the year. 

• Warm Seasons - November to March: The optimal time for travelers who seek warmer temperatures and the activities that are best enjoyed during this time falls between November and March. During these months, Patagonia basks in warmth, and daylight extends generously across both the Chilean and Argentine sides. Nights are remarkably short, lasting just six hours, though occasional night frosts and sleet may still visit the highlands even during the summer months. For a quieter experience amidst the spring blossoms, mid-November to mid-December offers fewer crowds.
• Cold Season - June to August: Winter in Patagonia, from June to August, may not be the best time for outdoor adventurers seeking hiking and trekking experiences. However, it does offer its unique charm. This is the best time to visit Patagonia if you're drawn to the solitude of snow-covered landscapes and want to try your hand at winter sports like skiing and snowshoeing. The lack of crowds and the dramatic icy landscapes make it a special season for those seeking a quieter, more introspective Patagonian experience.
• Transitional Seasons - Spring (October to November) and Autumn (March to April): In the transitional seasons, Patagonia undergoes fascinating transformations. Springtime in Patagonia, from October to November, ushers in a sense of renewal as the region awakens from its winter slumber. This is one of the best times to go to Patagonia if you prefer milder weather and fewer crowds. Spring offers crisp air, blooming landscapes, and wildlife returning to their breeding grounds, making it an excellent season for hiking and trekking through the picturesque trails of Torres del Paine and Los Glaciares National Parks. As autumn arrives, from March to April, the landscapes transform into a tapestry of warm, earthy hues. You will find Patagonia at its most colorful, showcasing vibrant autumn foliage while ushering in fewer visitors. The northern regions maintain some warmth compared to the south's milder temperatures.This is the best time of year to visit Patagonia for photographers and travelers who relish tranquility, with pleasant weather and opportunities for outdoor pursuits. 

Getting to Patagonia - Transportation & Airports

To say Patagonia is remote is an understatement. Encompassing the southern regions of both Argentina and Chile, Patagonia is accessed via flights from Buenos Aires, and Santiago respectively. There are no direct flights from North America or Europe. Direct flights between Patagonian Chile and Argentina are rare, so transport between countries is generally done overland. 

Patagonia's Main Airports

• Ushuaia, Argentina - a 3.5-hour flight from Buenos Aires also has 1.5-hour flights to El Calafate (or a 24+ hour bus ride!). Only 4 flights per week to Punta Arenas or a 12-hour bus + ferry ride complicate international transport. Airport: Ushuaia – Malvinas Argentinas International Airport (USH)
• El Calafate, Argentina - a 3.25 hour flight from Buenos Aires is the access point for Perrito Moreno Glacier, El Chalten & Glacier National Park. With no flights to Punta Arenas, a 5 hour bus ride to Puerto Natales, then 3 hours to Punta Arenas. El Calafate's airport is Comandante Armando Tola International Airport (FTE).
• Punta Arenas, Chile - located on the Strait of Magellan, is a 3.25 hour flight from Santiago. Buses/cars to Puerto Natales (2 hours) is the access point for Torres del Paine. Airport Presidente Carlos Ibáñez del Campo International Airport (PUQ).

United States - There are no direct flights from the US to Ushuaia, Punta Arenas, and El Calafate, but there are 1 stop flights to all of the airports. Check out the US embassy's advice for travel to Argentina and Chile. 

Canada - There are 2 stop flights from Montreal and Toronto to all the Patagonia airports. Check out the Canadian embassy's advice for travel to Argentina and Chile. 

New Zealand - Getting from New Zealand to Argentina or Chile can be a long trip, it is likely you will have to stop at 4 different airports to get to one of the Patagonian airports. Cherck New Zealand's embassy's advice for travel to Argentina and Chile.

Australia and the United Kingdom have restrictions for international travel for tourism, check out the UK's and Australia's official website to see up to date information.

How do I get to Patagonia's National Parks and Reserves

• Los Glaciares National Park (Fitz Roy Area): Fly to El Calafate and drive approximately 220 kilometers (137 miles) to the park entrance.
• Tierra del Fuego National Park: Fly to Ushuaia and take a short 11-kilometer (7-mile) drive to the park entrance.
• Torres del Paine National Park: Fly to Punta Arenas and drive around 250 kilometers (155 miles) to reach the park. Alternatively, consider available bus and transfer services.
• Lakes District: Fly to Puerto Montt or Temuco, then drive to your destination. For example, from Puerto Montt to Pucon, it's approximately a 560-kilometer (348-mile) journey.
• Aysén Region: Fly to Balmaceda Airport and drive about 55 kilometers (34 miles) to reach Coyhaique, the regional capital.
• Patagonia National Park: Fly to Balmaceda Airport and drive roughly 340 kilometers (211 miles) to Cochrane, where the park is located.
• Nahuel Huapi National Park: Fly to Bariloche, a major gateway, and drive around 20 kilometers (12 miles) to reach the park entrance.
• Pumalín Park: Fly to Chaitén or Puerto Montt and take a ferry or drive to the park. From Chaitén to the park entrance, it's approximately a 20-kilometer (12-mile) drive.

Torres Del Paine National Park

Nestled in the heart of Chile's Patagonia region, Torres del Paine National Park stands as an iconic jewel of South America's natural wonders. This pristine wilderness, celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and thrilling outdoor activities, beckons adventurers from around the globe.

• Spectacular Scenery: The park's signature feature, the towering granite spires known as the Torres del Paine, loom majestically over the landscape, casting awe-inspiring reflections in the glacial lakes below. Their dramatic presence is just the beginning of the visual feast that awaits visitors. Verdant valleys, azure lakes, pristine glaciers, and rugged mountains form a canvas of unparalleled beauty.
• Hiking and Trekking: Torres del Paine is a mecca for hikers and trekkers. Its extensive network of well-maintained trails caters to all levels of expertise. Whether you embark on the famous W Circuit or the more challenging O Circuit, you'll be rewarded with awe-inspiring vistas at every turn. Hiking through lush forests, past glistening waterfalls, and along crystal-clear rivers is an experience you won't soon forget.
• Glacier Adventures: The park also offers the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the world's most magnificent glaciers. Glacier trekking and ice climbing are thrilling activities that allow you to explore the icy wonders of Grey Glacier, an otherworldly landscape of blue icebergs and surreal formations. Witnessing the calving of these colossal glaciers is a humbling experience that underscores the raw power of nature.
• Wildlife Encounters: Torres del Paine is not just about landscapes; it's a haven for wildlife enthusiasts too. While exploring the park, you'll encounter the hardy guanacos, graceful creatures reminiscent of smaller llamas. Keep a watchful eye out for the elusive pumas, the park's stealthy apex predators. Numerous bird species, such as Andean condors and Magellanic woodpeckers, grace the skies and forests.

Top Parks to Hike & Explore in Patagonia

• Los Glaciares National Park (Fitz Roy Area): Nestled in the southern Andes in Argentina, Los Glaciares National Park is renowned for the iconic Mount Fitz Roy. The park features stunning glaciers, including the famous Perito Moreno Glacier, and offers hiking trails showcasing breathtaking vistas.
• Tierra del Fuego National Park: Located at the southernmost tip of Argentina, Tierra del Fuego National Park is a pristine wilderness where the Andes meet the Beagle Channel. Explore diverse landscapes, from dense forests to coastal beaches, and embark on scenic boat rides.
• Torres del Paine National Park: One of Chile's most famous national parks, Torres del Paine is a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Marvel at the iconic granite spires (torres), glaciers, and pristine lakes. Wildlife, including guanacos and condors, adds to the park's allure.
• Lakes District: The Chilean Lakes District is a captivating region with shimmering lakes, dense forests, and snow-capped volcanoes. Villarrica National Park, home to the active Villarrica Volcano, is a highlight. Explore charming towns like Pucon and Puerto Varas.
• Aysén Region: Aysén is a vast and sparsely populated region in Chile known for its remote wilderness and impressive glaciers. The Northern and Southern Patagonian Ice Fields contribute to the region's rugged beauty, with the picturesque Carretera Austral offering access.
• Patagonia National Park: This relatively new national park in Chile represents a significant conservation effort. It encompasses diverse ecosystems, from grasslands to mountains, and aims to protect wildlife while providing opportunities for sustainable recreation.
• Nahuel Huapi National Park: While not exclusively in Patagonia, Nahuel Huapi National Park in Argentina's Lakes District is worth mentioning. It features stunning alpine lakes, lush forests, and the iconic Andean-Patagonian landscape.
• Pumalín Park: Pumalín Park, also in the Aysén Region, is known for its biodiversity and lush rainforests. Visitors can explore trails, witness cascading waterfalls, and appreciate the park's commitment to conservation and eco-friendly practices.

EcoCamp: Glamping in Torres del Paine
In the windswept environment of Patagonia, camping takes on a luxurious tone at EcoCamp.

As the name suggests, the primary focus of this innovative camp in the middle of Patagonia is to be at one with the serene Torres del Paine, which is why they have designed decadent igloo style huts inspired by the Kawesqar indigenous nomadic groups that once roamed this region.

Spacious cabins put you right in the heart of the National Park, giving you easy access to activities like:

• hiking & glacier trekking
• penguin spotting
• horseback riding
• kayaking
• yoga hosted at the main lodge

Consider Luxury Patagonia Tours

Luxury Patagonia tours offer premium comfort and exclusive access to the region's beauty. They feature upscale accommodations, gourmet dining with regional cuisine, private guides, and unique activities. Scenic flights, customized itineraries, and luxury transportation enhance the experience. Guests can relax in spas, embark on high-end explorations, and enjoy culinary delights. Some tours are all-inclusive with small group sizes. Accommodations are in remote, scenic locations, and 24/7 concierge service is available for assistance, ensuring a seamless journey.

Why Travel to Patagonia

• Stunning Natural Beauty: Travel to Patagonia to witness some of the world's most awe-inspiring landscapes, including the Andes Mountains, the Perito Moreno Glacier, and the fjords of Tierra del Fuego.
• Outdoor Adventures: Patagonia travel offers a wide array of outdoor activities, from hiking in Torres del Paine National Park to kayaking in the Beagle Channel.
• Unique Wildlife Encounters: During your Patagonia tour you can discover diverse wildlife, including the Magellanic penguin colonies and the southern right whales.
• Photographic Opportunities: Capture the ever-changing scenery on your Patagonia trip, from snow-capped peaks to colorful valleys.
• Cultural Richness: Immerse yourself in Patagonia's indigenous cultures, like the Mapuche and Selk'nam, adding depth to your Patagonia travel experience. Learn about the local way of life, including the gaucho culture and the history of European colonization while visiting Patagonia.
• Diverse Weather: Patagonia's climate varies, mirroring its diverse geography. Its unpredictable weather, which can include experiencing "four seasons in a day," and its seasonal changes provide unique experiences, from spring blossoms to winter sports, on each visit.
• Adventure Opportunities: From trekking in Los Glaciares National Park to horseback riding in El Chaltén, Patagonia offers countless adventure options, making your Patagonia travel unforgettable.
• Eco-Tourism Initiatives: Responsible tourism initiatives in Patagonia focus on conservation and sustainable practices, protecting its fragile ecosystems during your Patagonia trip.
• Indulge in Local Cuisine: Sample regional dishes like roasted lamb and seafood, influenced by the unique culinary traditions of Patagonia.