Welcome to the wild south.
A vast and remote region that's surprisingly filled with life, Patagonia is a place of stunning landscapes where majestic granite peaks rise above clear glacial lakes. The wind here, among the strongest in the world, is powerful and transformative, shaping the land in its own special way. Often, you'll find yourself walking the trails with just the sounds of nature, more likely to see a guanaco than another hiker.
Planning a trip to an expansive and less-developed destination like Patagonia can feel a bit daunting. We totally get it! That's why we've put together this Patagonia travel guide, drawing from our own adventures here at Viva Expeditions. Of all the destinations in South America, this is undoubtedly the one where people need the most help. So, we're here to ensure you make the most of your journey.
Click the links to explore the guide.
Top Things to Do in Patagonia & Where to Go
Chile or Argentina: Which Side of Patagonia Is Better?
How Long Should You Spend in Patagonia?
Do You Need to Be Fit to Travel in Patagonia?
A Few More Essential Patagonia Travel Tips
Patagonia is one of the largest wilderness areas in the world, spanning about one MILLION square kilometres (around 386,000 square miles). It is a region shared by Argentina and Chile, stretching from the southern Andes mountains in the former to the windswept coastlines of the latter. It is accessible from both countries, with each side offering something altogether unique.
Patagonia is unlike anywhere else; it’s enormous, wild, and overwhelming. It humbles you in the best way, from the sheer scale of its peaks to the absolute stillness of its remotest corners. National parks like Torres del Paine and Los Glaciares are the headliners, with their towering peaks, blue-green lakes, and thundering glaciers. But what keeps travellers coming back is the feeling the place gives you.
As Viva's founder, Rachel Williams once said after one of her visits, "The scale of Patagonia is completely mesmerizing. It is 360 degrees of raw beauty, and I am always gripped by a sense of overwhelm and awe when exploring this beautiful place.”
Patagonia is not a place you come to see. It’s a force you come to feel.
Rachel taking a moment to soak up Patagonia’s beauty.
And there’s more. The nature is out of this world, and certainly takes centre stage. Yet, there's also plenty of human history here, too, and that's a fascinating aspect of the region worth exploring. Patagonians are tough folks, tougher than most. Discovering how they've not just survived but thrived in these at-times inhospitable conditions for thousands of years is an undisputed highlight.
There’s a reason Patagonia is on so many bucket lists. It’s not just the scenery—though that alone would be worth the trip. It’s what you can do here that makes it truly special.
If you love hiking, you're in for a treat! The W Trek in Torres del Paine, Chile, is one of the most renowned multi-day hikes in the world, leading you through stunning landscapes filled with icebergs, hanging valleys, and those iconic granite peaks. Here’s our Guided W Trek Itinerary that gives you an idea of how it pans out. And don't worry if you're not a seasoned trekker, there are plenty of shorter, gorgeous trails that are perfect for a day hike.
Just across the border in Argentina, Los Glaciares National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) offers sensational views around Mount Fitz Roy and Laguna de los Tres. The sights are jaw-dropping, but it's often those smaller, more peaceful moments—like walking over a wooden bridge above a rushing stream or catching a glimpse of a condor soaring in the sky—that tend to stay with you most.
Patagonia's glaciers are legendary, and none more so than Perito Moreno. Watching it calve into Lago Argentino is mesmerising. When huge towers of ice crack off and crash into the lake below, it sends ripples that you can feel in your chest. You can take a boat ride to get closer or simply spend an hour (or two) on the boardwalks, listening to the creaks and groans echo across the valley. This is the Patagonia magic everyone raves about.
Wildlife lovers will feel right at home here, too. Guanacos are everywhere, with their twitchy ears and watchful eyes, but look closer and you might spot foxes, rheas, or even the elusive puma—especially in Torres del Paine, where our team has had a few lucky sightings . Out along the coastlines and in places like Tierra del Fuego or the Valdés Peninsula, it's all about the marine life: whales, sea lions, dolphins, and penguins crowd the cold waters, depending on the season. The unique place on earth where orcas beach themselves to catch sea lions and elephant seals for supper? Patagonia is where that happens.
If you think Patagonia's drama ends at the edge of the land, think again. The coastline here is one of the most underrated corners of the region—an endless maze of fjords, channels, and glacial valleys best explored by expedition cruise. These aren't your average floating hotels with casinos and sun decks. Instead, you'll hop aboard sturdy, small ships designed for adventure.
“For five days cruising the Patagonian fjords, the only human encounters we had were with a Chilean family at the legendary Cape Horn Lighthouse, proudly living there and caring for the island. Apart from them, we passed just one solitary fishing boat. The rest was dolphins, penguins, seabirds, wild forests, and glacier after glacier tumbling into the sea. I never expected so many — it completely blew my mind.”
– Tara, on our 5-day Fjords of Tierra del Fuego Cruise.
In the far south, the Beagle Channel and routes toward Cape Horn or Ushuaia offer similarly rewarding experiences, especially for those continuing to Antarctica.
We have an inkling that the saying "It's not the destination but the journey" was first uttered on a road trip through Patagonia. Driving along epic overland routes here, from Chile's Carretera Austral to Argentina's legendary Route 40, is an experience all its own. These aren't roads you rush; they twist and roll through long forgotten towns, glacier-fed rivers, lenga forests, and high passes that seem to go on forever. It's the kind of travel that reminds you how good it feels to just slow down.
Patagonia is where road transfers between highlights become a highlight of their own accord.
This is one of the most common questions we get. The truth is: both sides are incredible, and ideally, you’ll see a bit of each.
Chile’s Patagonia feels wilder and more remote. It is home to Torres del Paine, one of the most photogenic national parks in the world. It’s less populated and more rugged, with a definite focus on wilderness and silence.
> Browse our Patagonia Itineraries featuring Torres del Paine
Argentina’s side offers a different kind of charm. You’ll get up close to Perito Moreno Glacier, explore charming towns like El Calafate and El Chaltén, and experience traditional estancia life. There’s a stronger cultural thread here—this is the land of gauchos, asados, wine, and European flair.
Together, the two sides create a fuller picture of what makes this region so compelling, so the best Patagonia travel itineraries will let you experience both.
The timing of your trip will dictate what you experience. Most people visit between October and April, when the weather is at its mildest, hiking trails are accessible, and the days are long enough to pack in plenty of adventure.
Spring (October–November) brings wildflowers, fewer crowds, and orcas hunting close to shore, though temperatures can still be cool.
December to February, the southern summer, is peak hiking season, with warmer weather, stronger winds, and the most visitors.
Autumn (March–April) offers golden forests, crisp air, quieter trails, and is ideal if you prefer shorter hikes.
Winter (May–September) is generally off-limits for most travel unless you're heading to Bariloche for skiing or just want to luxuriate in one of the few upscale lodges open all year. Many remote lodges and park facilities close during this time.
At a Glance:
· October–November: Spring flowers, fewer crowds, changeable weather
· December–February: Warmest months, longest days, most popular
· March–April: Autumn colours, quieter parks, still great for hiking
· May–September: Snow, skiing, lodge stays
Patagonia is not the kind of place you can, or would want to, rush through. Travel times are always longer than anticipated, and the whole point is to slow down and connect with the land. That said, how many days you need really depends on what you want to experience.
· 5–7 days gives you time to explore one region (e.g., Torres del Paine OR Los Glaciares) with time to hike and relax;
· 10–14 days allows you to cross from Chile to Argentina or combine hiking, wildlife, and cultural experiences like an estancia stay, glacier boat trip, or scenic road journey;
· 2+ weeks lets you go deeper, explore off-the-beaten-path areas, or add an Antarctica extension
At Viva, we always recommend building in buffer time into your Patagonia itinerary. The region has a way of throwing curveballs, whether it's the weather or the irresistible pull of wanting to stay longer than you thought.
One of the biggest misconceptions about Patagonia is that it's only for elite hikers. Sure, some epic multi-day treks and circuits draw serious mountaineers. But Patagonia doesn't demand peak fitness from every traveller. The dramatic wilderness does beg you to get out there, though, but there are countless ways to experience the landscape without ever pulling on a pair of crampons.
Many of the region's best sights—glaciers, wildlife hotspots, lakes, viewpoints—are accessible by vehicle or on short, scenic walks. Boat rides take you up close to ice walls and fjords. Estancias offer horseback rides through open plains. Even in Torres del Paine, the longer treks can be broken into rewarding day hikes, so it's not hard to find a version of Patagonia to match your pace.
Tara puts it best:
"Yes, you can hike for days or even weeks on end here. Or you could also stay at Tierra Patagonia for a few days, enjoy leisurely walks to sensational viewpoints, explore by luxury van, spend an afternoon at the spa and sip sundowners as the sun sets over the granite peaks of Torres. I mean, I’m just saying...there are options!”
– Tara, General Manager, Viva Expeditions.
The remoteness of Patagonia, as you can tell, doesn’t mean roughing it—unless you want to, of course. From rustic huts to luxury lodges, all in ridiculously beautiful locations, there's a surprisingly wide range of places to stay.
Refugios are the heart of the trekking experience. These cosy mountain huts along the trails provide warm meals, comfortable beds, and a welcoming vibe where trekkers can share stories of their adventures. Beds book out months in advance in peak season, so plan accordingly. You also have the option to camp in a tent next to the refugio.
Take your hiking trip to the next level with overnight stay at the Eco Camp in Torres del Paine.
At the other end are wilderness lodges, such as The Singular in Puerto Natales, that offer a more luxurious getaway. Here, you get stunning views, excellent service, spa treatments, gourmet meals, guided excursions...well, you get the point!
Yes, it is a tough choice, we know!
Then there are estancias, which are luxurious in a totally different way. These working ranches offer a taste of authentic Patagonian life, and many offer indulgent comforts while still being sublimely rustic. Staying at one means homemade meals, stories by the fire, and maybe a ride across the steppe with a local gaucho.
“Estancias are more than just a place to sleep—they’re a memorable part of the Patagonia experience. The estates are beautiful, the hospitality is phenomenal, and the excursions feel truly special."
– Tara, General Manager, Viva Expeditions.
Spend a day in the great Patagonian outdoors, and we guarantee you'll return famished. Thankfully, Patagonia delivers. The food here is hearty, local, and often surprisingly refined.
Spit-roasted lamb—cordero al palo—is a staple, slow-cooked over an open flame until tender and infused with a smoky flavour. King crab is prized in the southern fjords, especially in and around Punta Arenas and Ushuaia. Guanaco and trout also feature on menus, along with creamy soups, crusty bread, and rich desserts.
In towns like El Calafate and Puerto Natales, you'll find a mix of traditional cooking and international flair, from wood-fired empanadas and handmade pasta to excellent Argentine or Chilean wines to wash it all down. Food is such a big part of the Patagonian experience that we even offer dedicated Patagonia Food Tours.
You’ll hear it again and again: pack for four seasons in one day. The weather changes fast, and the wind is a constant companion. Bring layers, and don't underestimate the chill, even in summer. See our detailed packing list.
Sturdy shoes are a must—even for light hikes—and a refillable water bottle will serve you well. The tap water here is some of the purest you’ll find.
Book early, especially for peak season Patagonia itineraries. Refugios, popular lodges, and hiking permits can all fill months in advance. And while some spontaneous travel is possible, a bit of planning goes a long way here.
Perhaps the most important tip? Take your time. Patagonia isn’t meant to be ticked off in a hurry. This is a place best taken in slowly.
There's no beating around the bush here: Patagonia is not a bargain destination. But, if you were after a cheap holiday, you probably would not have made it this far in the guide. The remoteness of the region, limited infrastructure, and high cost of transporting people and supplies all contribute to increased prices. Yet that doesn't mean it is only for luxury travellers. On the contrary.
Refugio stays can keep costs down, lodges and estancias do come in differing budgets, and travelling in shoulder season (October or April) also means you enjoy better prices and fewer crowds. Overland travel can be more affordable than flying between regions and highlights, and shared tours with friends or guided hikes are good options if extensive private Patagonia itineraries aren't in the budget.
That said, if you are looking to splurge, you'll find no worthier destination. A few nights in a wilderness lodge, a boat trip to see calving glaciers, or a couple of days with a private guide and transport can turn a great trip into something truly unforgettable.
Our South America specialists have been exploring Patagonia for over two decades. We know the trails, the secret viewpoints, the right guides, and the places worth slowing down for. We've slept in the mountain huts, eaten the best meals, and stayed in the best lodges. We've stood on the bow of a boat watching ice fall into the lake, and we've shared personal moments in places where the landscape just stops you in your tracks.
Our Signature Patagonia Tour was designed to bring it all together. You'll visit both Chile and Argentina, travel from Santiago to El Calafate (or the other way around), and experience the very best of the region—glaciers, mountains, estancias, and open skies. It's a thoughtfully designed Patagonia itinerary that still leaves space for personal choices.
Like the time Rachel decided to just stop and enjoy the view for a moment, rounding a bend near Grey Glacier, and ended up locking eyes with a puma.
“We both froze, surprised to have stumbled upon one another", she recalls. "It may sound silly, but it felt like we had shared a very special moment. It's a snippet of life I will never forget."
Rare but not impossible – spotting pumas in Patagonia happens more often than you think!
Ready to Plan Your Patagonia Adventure?
If you’re ready to start shaping your own journey, get in touch. We’ll help you figure out the best route, the right season, and all the details in between. Patagonia is a long way to go—but for many of us, it’s exactly where we needed to be.
> See all our Patagonia Itineraries & Tours
Laura PattaraLaura Pattara writes for Viva Expeditions with a special love for all things Latin America. She had guided overland tours across the continent, reached Machu Picchu five times on foot, and even dressed up as a giant toucan for Carnaval. With a degree in languages and two decades of global travel experience behind her, Laura has a long-standing love for the Andes, soaring condors, and a truly delicious empanada. |
Signature Tours: Refined, Simplified, Perfected
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Discover stunning Patagonia on this 9 day adventure, from Santiago to El Calafate (or vice versa). This combines perfectly with an Antarctic cruise!
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Snuggled into the majestic Torres del Paine landscape, Tierra Patagonia is a luxury hotel that offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation.
Unique Stays: Explore a world of extraordinary experiences with our Unique Stays, each tailored to enrich your journey with unforgettable adventures and authentic encounters.
Luxury Tours: We design unique luxury holidays that allow you to experience the most spectacular and remote parts of the world. From the best hotels and lodges to luxury small ship cruises and exclusive heli-tours.
From the iconic peaks of Torres del Paine National Park to the traditional charm of the estancia, every moment promises adventure and discovery.
