How far would you go to escape from it all? Would you venture to “the end of the world?” One of South America’s most iconic regions, Patagonia’s rugged terrain offers a full range of adventures, from exploring glaciers to traversing mountain ranges, to kayaking pristine waterways. Untouched by the trappings of modern-day life, we recommend these three adventures in a region renowned as “the end of the world.” Here’s the definitive Patagonia travel guide.
Perito Moreno Glacier
Patagonia is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, including vast glaciers, ancient fjords, and some of the highest mountain ranges in the world so it’s no wonder adventurers want to travel to Patagonia. Perhaps the most renowned of Patagonia’s outdoor destinations is the Perito Moreno Glacier, a massive expanse of ice estimated to be 18,000 years old—and still on the move!
Accessing the glacier begins in El Calafate, a bucolic town that serves as the gateway to Glacier National Park. From here, adventurers pass through the visitor center, which serves as a jumping off point for travel in Patagonia to the various trails and pathways leading to the frozen giant known as Perito Moreno.
As you wander along the boardwalks that hug the glacier, you’ll find yourself in awe of its otherworldly form, contemplating the behemoth that stands before you, extending 19 miles (30km) in length and standing almost 200 feet (60m) in height. Lucky visitors may also witness sheets of ice, some as large as commercial aircraft, breaking off the glacier’s façade and crashing into the sea with a thunderous boom.
If you prefer to kick the intensity up a notch and scale the glacier itself, we recommend booking a glacier trekking tour with a Patagonia travel guide. They can provide you with the equipment and expertise required to safely tackle this challenge.
Visit a Penguin Colony
Head to Puerto Madryn on Patagonia’s northeastern coast, where the arid landscapes meet the vibrant marine ecosystem of the Atlantic Ocean. But seriously, go for the penguins! The highlight here is Punta Tombo, South America’s largest Magellanic penguin colony.
Along the peninsula, you’ll find tens of thousands of these happy little creatures nesting and frolicking along the shoreline. The waters of Puerto Madryn also serve as a crucial breeding ground for southern right whales, sea lions, and elephant seals.
After a long day of immersing yourself in marine life, retire to the town of Gaiman, a charming enclave settled by Welsh immigrants over 200 years ago. Warm yourself in its tea houses, indulge in Welsh pastries, and explore this one-of-a-kind hamlet where Welsh traditions and Patagonian hospitality converge.
Hiking in El Chaltén
Imagine hiking leisurely through an idyllic Andean valley and reconnecting with nature, along the way. You can have this all when you travel to Patagonia. Check out the town of El Chaltén. A top-rated hiking destination, El Chaltén serves as a base for numerous excursions to the region’s myriad lakes, mountains, and forests. The most popular of these is a day trip to Laguna de los Tres, meaning “Lake of the Three,” named after the three towering peaks that overlook it – Mount FitzRoy, Cerro Torre, and Mount Poincenot. With its deep turquoise color, we highly recommend unpacking a lunch at the base of the lake and savoring one of the most spectacular views in the world. This is what makes travel to Patagonia so worthwhile.
Kayaking Patagonia
For those seeking their thrills on the water, Patagonia also has plenty to offer. One of the region’s most scenic kayaking tours takes you down the Rio de las Vueltas, or The Meandering River. Starting north of El Chaltén, in Desert Lake, kayakers paddle south, witnessing the dramatic shifts in landscape from lush lenga forests to snow-capped mountain passes, eventually culminating in majestic views of the three peaks—Mount FitzRoy, Cerro Torre, and Mount Poincenot. Guided by torrent ducks, white-throated condors, and red foxes along the way, you’ll wind down the river, knowing you’ve reached “the end of the world,” wondering why you didn’t get there sooner.
Hiking the W Circuit
Patagonia’s status as a hiker’s paradise is world-renowned. Among the hiking trails on every outdoor enthusiasts’s bucket list is the legendary W Circuit, located in Torres del Paine National Park. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Torres del Paine National Park lies nestled between the Andes Mountains and the Patagonian Steppe. The region is home to towering granite peaks, shimmering glacial lakes, and sweeping grasslands that form a canvas of unparalleled beauty.
The W Circuit leads trekkers through the heart of the park, offering breathtaking views of the Paine Massif, Grey Glacier, and Valle Frances—three of the park’s most renowned destinations. The diverse ecosystems within the park also harbor a variety of wildlife, including guanacos, foxes, and elusive pumas.
When faced with choosing the three-day route or the five-day route, we say hang around for a while. After all, you’ve reached the end of the world—take a deep breath, unwind, and savor this extraordinary moment.”
Weather in Patagonia
Patagonia’s summer takes place from December to February, providing the most favorable conditions for outdoor activities. During the day, high temperatures average 57°F (14° C), while evening temperatures average 41° (5°C). Summer is also the season with the least amount of precipitation for Patagonia travel. However, summer is also the region’s peak season, so be aware that travel in Patagonia can become more intense. For those willing to trade cooler temperatures for smaller crowds, we recommend exploring Patagonia in autumn, when fewer crowds and a more intimate travel experience await.
