patagonia tours december 2022

Patagonia Tours & Vacations

Sandwiched between two oceans and sprawled across two countries. Patagonia is as ‘end-of-the-world’ as it gets.

Advancing glaciers, gushing waterfalls, snow-topped granite pillars…it’s no wonder Chile and Argentina both stake a claim over this beautiful slice of South America . Where else can you hike past herds of guanaco, hear giant shards of ice crash into the sea, sail the Beagle Channel past unique flora and fauna, and drop by the world’s southernmost city? If anywhere makes you feel small, it’s Patagonia. Adventure to the end of the world and appreciate our planet at its most wild and spectacular. 

Our Patagonia trips

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Patagonia highlights

Patagonia tour reviews.

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Classic Hikes of Patagonia

Articles of Patagonia

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Finding the secret sauce to a great group in Patagonia

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7 different ways to see Patagonia with Intrepid

Travel is back and we just dropped 10 new Premium adventures

The top 9 destinations for travel in November 2024

8 awesome experiences you MUST have in Argentina

Hiking in Torres del Paine? Here’s what you need to know

Patagonia travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Where is Patagonia?

Patagonia is a geographical region located at the southern tip of South America.

It spans the lower sections of Argentina and Chile and is governed by both countries.

Do I need a visa to visit Patagonia?

You will need to organize your visa. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information.

Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date information specific to your nationality.

Check the Essential Trip Information section of the itinerary for more information.

What is the weather like in Patagonia?

Patagonia is much cooler than the rest of South America. With diverse terrain ranging from glaciers to mountains and coastlines, the region sees extreme variations in weather.

Average temperatures range from 48-64°F in summer and 32-43°F in winter, but sub-zero temperatures are common.

The weather can be unpredictable at any time of year, and it feels much cooler when there are strong winds.

Snow is possible towards the end of autumn (May), and continues into winter with heavy snowfall down south and in the mountains.

When is the best time to visit Patagonia?

October to March (spring/summer) is considered to be the best time to visit Patagonia; this is when most of our trips run. During this period, daytime temperatures average up to 72°F, but it's a chilly 39°F at night.

Rain and strong winds are possible at any time of year and can make the temperature feel much cooler.

Is tipping customary in Patagonia?

Tipping in Patagonia is common, but only when you’re satisfied with the service.

Aim for 10-15% of a bill at a restaurant or cafe as a general guide (if it’s not included already).

It’s also common to give hotel porters, drivers and other staff a small tip.

What is internet access like in Patagonia?

You will find wi-fi in most hotels, cafes and restaurants in large towns and cities, but it can be harder to find as you venture to more remote areas.

You may wish to buy a local SIM card if you want to stay in contact with folks at home, but a phone signal can still be patchy in remote areas.

What are the toilets like in Patagonia?

You will find Western-style flushable toilets in Patagonia.

It is a good idea to carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer, as they’re not always provided.

Just note that while the toilets are modern, the plumbing isn’t and can clog easily, so you may see signs asking you not to flush toilet paper and use the bin provided instead.

What is ATM access like in Patagonia?

ATMs are available in larger towns and cities but are less common in small villages or rural areas.

Make sure you have enough cash before leaving urban areas.

Argentina uses the Argentinean Peso, while Chile uses the Chilean Peso. It might also be worth bringing some US dollars.

Can I use my credit card in Patagonia?

Credit cards may not be accepted in small towns and rural areas.

Make sure to carry enough cash when visiting rural areas in case credit cards are not an option.

What to pack for Patagonia

Please check your Essential Trip Information for a complete list of packing suggestions for your itinerary.

These are the basics you will need to bring for an active adventure in Patagonia:

• Closed-in, waterproof walking shoes/hiking boots

Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)

Rucksack and day bag

Reusable water bottle

Thermal base layers

Hiking clothing

Waterproof/windproof jacket

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travellers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

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Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

Private Gaucho Show, where cowboys of the Argentine outback demonstrate their amazing riding and "horse whispering" skills

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

On-Tour A ir included (2 flights)

Cruise on Esperanza Sound and a walk overlooking Serrano Glacier

Visit to the workshop of the Draghi family, world-famous silversmiths of Argentina

A picnic lunch overlooking the awesome Perito Moreno Glacier in Glacier National Park

Tango show in Buenos Aires, where the passionate pas de deux was born

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Active components such as hiking, bicycling and walking longer distances may be included, and hills and/or uneven terrain may be encountered on several days. Guests should be able to walk two to three miles and stand for long periods of time with no difficulty.

Consistently robust – very full and active days, extended travel times, use of different modes of local transport, and a possibility of early starts.

Experiences of a lifetime

In the southern Andes mountains lies one of the most beautiful places on Earth… Patagonia. Astonishing landscapes of jagged Andean peaks and deep fjords carved by glaciers... panoramic vistas of living ice that changes shape and color by the angle of the sun, amid deep water lakes of emerald and turquoise. No wonder some local legends hold that extraterrestrials once lived here.

Cruising patagonia's fjords, glaciers galore in o'higgins national park.

Cruise Patagonia's fjords through Última Esperanza Sound, stopping for a hike in the interestingly named Bernardo O'Higgins National Park, which encompasses a large part of the Southern Patagonian Icefield, and is chock full of glaciers... including Pío XI, Chico, Jorge Montt, Chico, Témpano, Penguin and O'Higgins. The park, by the way, is named for Gen. Bernardo O'Higgins, the illegitimate son of an Irish-born Spanish officer, who became an independent Chile's first head of state in the 19th century.

The rugged Torres del Paine National Park

A spectacular nature preserve in patagonia.

Torres del Paine National Park, in Chile's Patagonian region, is an incredible collection of natural treasures dominated by a unique trio of granite peaks with serrated edges that jut dramatically skyward – the Torres del Paine – also known as Cleopatra's Needles. Against this rocky backdrop, the park's shimmering lakes are vivid emerald or turquoise – caused by the rock flour produced by the constant glacial grinding of the mountains. And for the record, "Torres del Paine" translates to "Blue Towers" – "paine" means "blue" in the region's Tehuelche language.

Gauchos and silversmiths

Gaucho and silver traditions combine in san antonio del areco.

The traditions of Argentina's gauchos (cowboys) run strong in the town of San Antonio de Areco. And so do the artisanal traditions of the Draghi family and its patriarch, Areco-born master silversmith Juan José Draghi, whose workshop, founded here in the 1960s, created world-famous customized silver pieces for folks ranging from local gauchos to US Presidents. Today, Draghi's work and traditions are carried on by his grown children. See examples of their exquisite silver and saddlery evoking the region's gaucho culture at their studio and museum; you may also see their work among the cowboys demonstrating their equestrian skills during your visit.

The Singular Patagonia

Nights 2, 3, 4 and 5

Nature and history meet at The Singular Patagonia

With a privileged surrounding of unparalleled natural beauty, The Singular Patagonia is a space of extreme sophistication, incredible history and the highest levels of personalized service at the so-called "end of the world," deep in the heart of Chilean Patagonia. Just over a century ago (1915, to be exact), the buildings that are now The Singular were built as the Bories cold-storage plant, which received sheep from local estancias and prepared the meat and wool for export. When the former factory was converted to the luxury hotel you'll stay in today, a museum was created to preserve the plant's original century-old industrial machinery, for which the factory was declared a historic monument in 1996.

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Where you stay is an important part of your journey – with Tauck, accommodations have been handpicked and carefully selected for their location and ambiance, enhancing the destinations you explore. Download accommodation details and your travel plans begin!

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Overnight Accommodations

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The ritz-carlton, santiago.

Santiago, Chile

Puerto Natales, Chile

Xelena Hotel & Suites

El Calafate, Argentina

Nights 9-10

Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Your Journey

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally , you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into Chile and Argentina.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally , you should contact a consulate or embassy of Chile and Argentina to determine what travel documentation is required.

Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We strongly recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $700 per person

Final Payment:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  90  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Tauck Travel Protection Product

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Guest Protection

Tauck's Guest Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.
• Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $699  per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

If You Have to Cancel

Cancellations Fees – Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Guests choosing to purchase Tauck's Guest Protection will incur loss of Guest Protection fee per person.

Guests choosing not to purchase Tauck's Guest Protection will incur cancellation penalties per person as follows:

60 days or more before departure:

$700  per person – South America land tours;  Manitoba: Polar Bear Adventure

59-30 days before departure:

$1400  per person – South America land tours

$2670  per person –  Manitoba: Polar Bear Adventure

29-1 days before departure:

$2000  per person – South America land tours

$3560  per person –  Manitoba: Polar Bear Adventure

Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  http://www.affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPINTL

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit

Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees.

If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit

Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

90 days or more before departure = $700 per person

89-30 days before departure = $1400 per person

29-1 days before departure = $2000 per person

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico. 

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Besides the checked luggage limitations noted above, you are allowed to bring one piece of carry-on luggage aboard your intra-tour flights, weighing no more than 17 pounds (8 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 43 inches (115 cm).

Carry-on Luggage - General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Some of the countries visited on this itinerary may require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against certain diseases in order to enter the country. These requirements are subject to frequent change as outbreaks occur and subside in different areas, and it is therefore crucial that you obtain the very latest information on entry requirements as you prepare for your journey.

For the most current information, please consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) by clicking here  and the World Health Organization (WHO) by clicking here . You may also wish to visit the web sites for the embassies of the countries you will be visiting.  Besides providing details on vaccination requirements, these sites can also provide information on vaccinations that may be recommended (but aren't required) and other potential health issues for which no vaccines are available.

Any decisions relating to your health, of course, should not be based solely on information provided by a web site. It is critically important that you consult with your personal physician prior to your journey to obtain any required vaccinations and to review any optional recommendations offered by the CDC or other sources.

Please be sure to discuss your journey with your physician at least four to six weeks in advance of your departure, as certain vaccinations take time to become fully effective. Also, be certain to ask your physician for proof of any vaccinations you receive, and to pack this proof along with your other travel documents in your carry-on luggage (not in your checked luggage).

Researching and complying with vaccination entry requirements for the countries visited on this itinerary is the responsibility of the traveler and not Tauck. Tauck is therefore not responsible for any expenses incurred or disruptions to travel caused by improper or incomplete vaccinations, or by the failure to provide proof of required vaccinations.

If you do not obtain the necessary vaccinations and proper documentation, you may be denied entry into one or more countries, or temporarily quarantined until the necessary vaccinations are administered, or until proper documentation is provided.

To enjoy this tour's itinerary, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. The amount of walking you do, however, is at your discretion.

AN IMPORTANT NOTE ON SUPPLEMENTAL OXYGEN AND MOBILITY ISSUES: This Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate oxygen tanks, wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Oxygen tanks are strictly prohibited in many foreign countries on regional flights aboard small aircraft, such as those intra-tour flights featured on this Tauck journey. Likewise, the very limited cargo capacity on such flights prohibits the transport of wheelchairs or motorized scooters.

Guests should also bear in mind that the infrastructure in many foreign countries, particularly in developing countries, often presents severe and even insurmountable challenges for those with walking difficulties or other mobility issues. The responsibility of the Tauck Director is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest.  Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it. While drinking water is generally safe at all our hotels, bottled water will be available on motor coaches and boats.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

South America has a wide variety of climates. The principal cities we visit receive very light to moderate rainfall and are warm year-round.

Santiago has a mild Mediterranean climate: relatively hot dry summers (November to March) with temperatures reaching up to 86 ºF (30 ºC) on the hottest days; winters (June to August) are more humid with cold mornings and with typical maximum daily temperatures of 60 ºF (16 ºC).

Buenos Aires has a temperate climate (considered as "humid subtropical") with average temperatures in the afternoon ranging from 83 ºF (28 ºC) in January to 57 ºF (14 ºC) in July. Rain can be expected at any time of year.

To determine current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov.us, by clicking here .

What To Pack

Your journey through South America is casual. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. During the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations in the Andes and at nights along the shore will require warmer, layered clothing. For the welcome and farewell receptions, casual resort wear is appropriate. It will be cold in the lakes region during October and November, so guests traveling during these months should bring layers including a sweater and a fleece or a warm jacket. Please leave all expensive or flashy jewelry at home.

Valet laundry service is available at all the hotels on this itinerary.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

We suggest that you pack the following items your journey to South America:

• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks and short-sleeve shirts
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• Water and wind repellent cold weather jacket
• Woolen hat and gloves
• One layer of long underwear, top and bottom
• Comfortable trekking pants or rain pants or ski pants
• Sweater and/or fleece jacket
• Binoculars (7x50 preferably)
• Insect repellent
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Lightweight, comfortable yet sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Reusable zipper lock bags, other waterproof bags or daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room or stateroom while traveling.

Please refer to the Necessary Gear website at www.necessarygear.com as one option available to you for renting and purchasing apparel, PPEs, and other items appropriate for your journey.

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11 Day Patagonia Tour of Argentina and Chile

11 days, 2 countries and 10 cities

Accommodation

10 Breakfasts, 1 Welcome Reception, 4 Lunches, 5 Dinners, 1 Farewell Dinner

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Travel to the ends of the earth, from the flamboyant capital of Buenos Aires to the land of giants, roaming solitary steppes, the rugged Andes, and glacial lakes. Insider experiences including dinner with a Buenos Aires family and Patagonian cowboy cultural visit in Torres Del Paine enrich your Patagonia tour.

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11 days itinerary trip from Buenos Aires to Santiago visiting 2 countries and 10 cities

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About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Tierra del Fuego National Park, Ushuaia, Los Glaciares National Park, Torres del Paine National Park and learn about the Patagonian culture from local vaqueros.

Visit Museo Maritimo y del Presidio

Scenic Cruise Cruise to the Balmaceda Glacier and Serrano Glacier

Scenic Cruise upon a boat ride up the Rio Serrano toward the Serrano Glacier

Scenic Drive from El Calafate to Torres del Paine National Park and from Puerto Natales to Punta Arenas

Travel highlights

Specific transfer information can be found here:

Airport Transfers

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

All porterage and restaurant gratuities

All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

A Trafalgar bonus all Intra-Air Flights: Buenos Aires - Ushuaia - El Cafate, Punta Arenas - Santiago

Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

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Net-zero by 2050

Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Support Local

Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNESCO sites and places of cultural significance.

Sustainable Practices

Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

Philanthropic Efforts

Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

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Northern Patagonia Tour

The NARGS Tours and Adventures Committee has planned two tours to the Patagonia region of Argentina in early December 2022. The 12-day main tour will start in the Northern Lakes District of Patagonia (sometimes referred to as the Switzerland of South America), travel north by van through alpine and forest venues, and then to the grasslands and semi-desert at the northern end of Patagonia. Immediately following the main tour, we have planned a 5-day extension to the area around El Calafate in the Southern Lakes District. The timing of each tour was selected to coincide with expected bloom times. Well-known botanist and author Marcela Ferreyra will be our guide, and will be assisted by a second guide if there are more than 14 people in the group. Requests to participate in the extension only will be considered if space is available. A more detailed itinerary is provided below . If you have any questions/comments regarding Tour availability, send a message to the Tour Manager using the CONTACT in the upper right menu. Select Tours for "Category", enter your question, and click Send.

Day 1 (November 28): Buenos Aires to Bariloche

We will depart Buenos Aires at mid-day for Bariloche. Upon arrival, we will meet up with any participants who have arrived earlier and then drive to a scenic vista. There we will to view the beauty of the magnificent Andean Range to the west, Lake Nahuel Huapi and the city of Bariloche on its south shore, and the impact of changes in precipitation on the forests to the west and the steppe in the east. After settling into our hotel (we will be here for the next 3 nights), we will have dinner together at a local restaurant.

Day 2 (November 29): Cerro Catedral in Bariloche

Cerro Catedral is a beautiful granite mountain best known as the largest ski center in South America. Its name comes from its many peaks that look like spires. We will travel by bus to Catedral Village and then ascend by cabin and chair lift to approximately 6500 feet above sea level (fasl). The view from the summit is magnificent. The mountain is rich in alpines and most of them should be in bloom at this time of the year. Some of the species we hope to see include Callianthemoides semiverticillata, Viola sacculus, V. petraea, Oxalis erythrorhiza, Ourisiafragans, Oreopolus glacialis, and several species of Nassauvia and Senecio. We will return to Bariloche around 6 pm, and should have time to visit downtown before or after dinner.

Day 3 (November 30): Route 23 to Pilcaniyeu.

We will travel to the east through the lower mountains and steppe habitats. The steppe is one of the richest ecosystems in Patagonia. We will travel to Pilcaniyeu, a small town at 60 km from Bariloche. Close to Bariloche, we will stop to look for several orchid species including Chloraea alpina, C. magellanica and C. cylindrostachya, and a large Oxalis adenophylla population. Later on, we will stop in different places to look for Austrocactus patagonicus, Junellia succulentifolia, J. tonini, J. patagonica, J. tridactylites, Viola escondidiensis, Senna arnothiana, and many more. 

Day 4 (December 1): Bariloche to San Martín de los Andes via Paso Córdoba.

We will leave Bariloche after breakfast. We will initially be on Route 237 as it runs along the Limay River and crosses the Enchanted Valley, a very attractive volcanic rock formation with rare formations caused by the rain and wind erosion. Later on, we will turn onto unpaved Route 63 until it connects with 7 Lakes Route, which we will follow to San Martín de Los Andes. Along the way, we will stop to look for Viola volcanica, Nastanthus scapigerus, Oxalis nahuelhuapiensis, Pozoa volcanica, Mutisia spinosa, and more. We will also travel through a xeric forest dominated by Austrocedrus chilensis and later on through a forest with various Nothofagus species. We will have dinner and spend the night in San Martín de Los Andes. 

Day 5 (December 2): San Martín de Los Andes to Villa Pehuenia

We will leave San Martín after breakfast, heading to Junín de Los Andes, Aluminé, and Villa Pehuenia. On the way, we cross the steppe following the Aluminé River (famous for kayaking and fishing). Along the way we will be looking for Calceolaria polyrrhiza, Alstroemeria aurea, Glandularia araucana, and Rhodophiala mendocina. In the afternoon, we will arrive in Villa Pehuenia, a small village near Aluminé Lake and a very rare, relictual forest of Araucaria araucana. The scenery is breathtaking, with mountains, crystalline waters, lot of islands and peninsulas and, of course, the monkey puzzle tree that gives a mysterious and sacred feel to the landscape. We will spend two nights in Villa Pehuenia.

Day 6 (December 3): Cerro Batea Mahuida in Villa Pehuenia.

After breakfast we will travel to Batea Mahuida Mountain and a small ski center that belongs to a Mapuche community, one of the aboriginal groups that live in this area. We will stay on the bus until we reach a crater at approximately 5600 fasl that hosts a small lake. From here we can enjoy beautiful views of the surroundings and several volcanoes in Argentina and Chile. The mountain hosts a large population of Viola cotyledon that grows among Rhodophiala andicola, Oxalis adenophylla, Tristagma patagonica, Chloraea alpina, C. magellanica, and many more. It is an easy to walk to the very top at about 6200 fasl, but climbing is not necessary because the most of the species are around the lake.

Day 7 (December 4): Villa Pehuenia to Zapala via Primeros Pinos Pass.

After breakfast we leave Villa Pehuenia for Zapala. We will follow a gravel mountain route that runs along the Litrán River with Araucaria araucana scattered everywhere. The route rises to close to 6000 fasl at Primeros Pinos Pass where we will stop to see Viola coronifera, one of the rarest and most spectacular rosulate violas. Other special species for this day include Viola trochlearis, V.pachysoma, Calandrinia affinis, Jaborosa volckmanii, several species of Junellia, and many more. In the afternoon we will travel on to Zapala, where we will spend one night. 

Day 8 (December 5): Laguna Blanca and Caviahue.

We will spend the morning in Laguna Blanca National Park. The park protects a good example of Patagonian Steppe with many interesting plants, including Pterocactus araucanus and P. australis, Viola tectiflora, Pantacantha ameghinoi (the only species in this genus), Gutierrezia spathulata, Maihuenia patagonica, and many species of Junellia that convert the steppe into a blue and violet showy field. We will then continue toward Caviahue, with stops to see native Bougainvillea spinosa and Argylia robusta among other species generally found in montaine areas (scrub forests) rather than steppe, and to see Argyllia bustillosii and Tropaeolum incisum. In the afternoon we arrive to Caviahue, a very attractive village by Caviahue Lake at the base of mighty Copahue Volcano, with Araucaria trees growing on very showy basaltic outcrops. We will be in Caviahue for two nights.

Day 9 (December 6): Copahue an d Surroundings

After breakfast we will travel to Copahue at approximately 6500 fasl, a very small village among many fumaroles, thermal ponds, and a strong smell of sulfur. We will explore the old crater, which is now an incredible flower garden. Here we will find a dense population of Viola pachysoma (ex Viola copahuensis) the same color as the rocks. Other species that should be in bloom include Viola cotyledon, Olsynium frigidum, Ourisia ruelloides, Calandrinia colchahuensis, Gamocarpha dentata, Euphrasia meaiantha, and E. chrysantha among a long list of beauties. In the early afternoon we will return to near Caviahue to visit some waterfalls among basaltic outcrops and look for Maihuenia poeppigii, Grindelia prunelloides, and many more. 

Day 10 (December 7): Caviahue to Chos Malal via El Cholar

After breakfast we will leave Caviahue via a mountain road for Chos Malal. The first stop will be at Salto del Agrio, a waterfall that emerges from a wall made by volcanic columns. Agrio means “bitter” because of the water’s sulfur content and very low pH. Due to the water’s high content of sulfur and other minerals, the river bank is red and yellow. Many interesting species grow here, including Rhodophiala araucana, Chuquiraga oppositifolia, and Ephedra ochreata. Later in the day, we will encounter the Neuquén River and will stop to look for Mutisia retrorsa, Senecio gilliesii, Viola tectiflora, Junellia pathulata, Retanilla patagonica, and more. Chos Malal is a small and quiet city with water canals that irrigate the street trees, small squares, and a peaceful atmosphere. We will be here for two nights. 

Day 11 (December 8): Volcán Tromen

After breakfast we wiil head to Tromen Provincial Reserve with the Tromen Volcano at the center. The gravel route runs along a very special vegetation habitat known as the Payunia region. It is a very dry and warm region with a very xeric conditions. On the way to Tromen's base, we cross a colder steppe and may explore some alpine zones in Cerro Wayle (optional). On the way, we will pass a very large wetland and Tromen Lake, a paradise for birdwatchers. Cerro Wayle is not very difficult to climb but requires some effort. There we can find Viola atropurpurea among other true alpines. Otherwise, there are many interesting species at the slope of Tromen Volcano to enjoy, such as Oxalis compacta, Olsynium chrysocromun, Perezia recurvata, Montiopsis gayana, several species of Nassauvia and Junellia, and the endangered Adesmia pinnifolia, among a long list of species. We will have a farewell dinner in Chos Malal.

Day 12 (December 9): Chos Malal to Neuquén and flight to Buenos Aires.

We will follow the very scenic Route 40 to Zapala. Depending on time and conditions, we may botanize along the route. Depending on flight options, we will fly to Buenos Aires in either the late afternoon or early evening, or spend the night in Neuquén and fly the following morning

Other Information

Guide and Logistical Services:

Marcela Ferreyra will be the main tour guide and will be assisted by a second guide if there are more than 14 people in the group.. Camino Abierto will handle tour logistics (ground transportation, lodging, food, etc.). If you would like to spend additional time in Argentina either before or after the NARGS tour or extension, personnel at Camino Abierto can provide assistance.

All hotels have been selected by Marcela and Camino Abierto based on past experience. They are generally within walking distance of town centers, restaurants, etc. Example hotels are Hostería Las Marianas in Bariloche, Hostería Plaza Mayor in San Martín de los Andes, Hostería La Balconada in Villa Pehuenia, Hotel Nevado in Caviahue, Hostería Picun Ruca in Chos Malal, Hostería Puerto San Julián in El Calafate, and Hostería Pudu Lodge in Chaltén. Double beds in Argentina are mostly queen size.

Bariloche is very cosmopolitan but most of the towns that we will be staying in have limited dining options and locals speak little if any English. Breakfast will be provided at the hotel and generally consists of eggs, ham, cereals, cheese, toasted bread, jam, local pastries, fruit juice, milk, tea, and coffee. For days we are in the field, we will provide a box lunch and snacks using locally available foods. We will also provide water during all meals and field activities. Dinners are the main meal of the day for most Patagonians and typically consist of lamb, pasta, casseroles, soup, and salad. To accommodate personal dietary preferences, we will give each participant a list of dinner options for review and selection prior to arrival. Beverages other than water can be purchased by participants based on local availability. The main tour includes 11 breakfasts and lunches (every day except Day 1) and 11 dinners (all except Day 12). The extension includes 5 breakfasts (every day), 4 lunches (every day except Day 1), and 4 dinners (every day except Day 5).

Ground Transportation:

Air-conditioned vans or minibuses driven by professional drivers will be used during the tour and extension.

The goal of the tour is to botanize and is not a test of endurance or climbing skills. Tour participants should be in reasonable shape and able to traverse uneven terrain. During the main tour, we will generally be at elevations of 1,000 - 4,000 fasl (some hikes may go up to 6,500 fasl). During the extension, we will generally be at elevations of 600 - 3,500 fasl (some hikes may go up to 5,000 fasl.

We will be visiting Patagonia during the dry season, but high winds (especially in southern Patagonia) and rain are always a possibility. Ambient temperatures will generally be between 40° and 70° F in northern Patagonia and between 40° and 55° F in southern Patagonia.

Be prepared for variable conditions. Bring clothes that can be layered, good rain and wind clothing, and a day pack, as well as mountain shoes, a sunhat that ties, sunscreen and bug repellent.

The best reference is  Flowers of the Patagonian  Mountains by Martin Sheader available through the Alpine Garden Society and other places. Its companion volume  Patagonian Mountain Flower Holidays  by Hilary Little is also great for anyone wanting to explore this plantsman’s paradise.

Group Size and Price:

Both tours have been designed to accommodate up to 24 people. Pricing is based on a minimum of 15 people on the main tour and 10 people on the extension. If these minimums are not met, NARGS may need to cancel the tour or increase the price.

Supplemental Information Related to International and Domestic Flights:

It is expected that tour participants will be flying into Argentina from various locations and that some may want to spend additional time in South America as part of their trip. To meet everyone’s needs, tour participants are responsible for booking their own international flights into and out of Buenos Aires. Domestic flights to or from Bariloche, Neuquén, and El Calafate will be coordinated by Camino Abierto. However, it is not currently possible to confirm flight schedules or prices for travel in November and December 2022. A supplemental cost will be provided to tour participants in early 2022 for the flights (in November 2021, the cost for coach class tickets are approximately $350 for the main tour and $300 for the extension).

What is not included in the tour and extension prices:

• International flights

• Hotel and other expenses in Buenos Aires before and after the tour and extension except as noted above

• Beverages except those listed above during meals and field activities

• Travel and medical insurance

• Tips for guides and drivers

• Services not detailed in the program

INFORMATION RELATED TO INSURANCE, WAIVERS, AND PUBLIC HEALTH REQUIREMENTS

The tour price does not include insurance to cover costs associated with medical treatment, repatriation, flight cancellations, baggage loss, travel interruptions, cancellation fees, or other expenses. Each registrant is urged assess their personal situation and to obtain private insurance to cover these costs if needed.

Waiver of Liability and to Use Photos

By submitting a tour deposit, you are acknowledging that you are aware of the risks associated with travel and that you will not hold NARGS or others associated with the tour responsible for any delays; changes in itinerary, staffing, or accommodations; injuries, illnesses, or deaths; or any circumstances beyond the control of NARGS. At the time of final payment, you will be required to sign a waiver releasing NARGS and others associated with the tour from any losses, liability, or claims associated with your participation in the tour and allowing use of any photos taken during the tour.

Public Health Requirements

All participants must comply with public health requirements for international travel in their country of residence and in the tour host country. Documentation of vaccination for Covid-19 must be submitted at least 30 days prior to the tour departure date. Failure to provide this documentation will be considered a cancellation by the participant and will result in forfeiture of all payments. During the tour, participants may be in close contact with other participants and the general public. To the extent possible, participants should comply with U.S. and local guidelines on mask wearing, social distancing, and other public health guidelines, and must comply with all local public health requirements.

If you do not feel well, let the tour guide know. The guide will assist in locating medical services, but these services may be distant and less extensive than those available at home. Each participant will be individually responsible for paying the cost for these services and associated transportation.

If you have questions, send a message to Tour Manager on the CONTACT menu (above right, next to account), and select category Tours to submit.

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Encounter one of Earth’s most extreme environments by taking an Argentinian Patagonia tour through the extraordinary steppelands, glaciers and stark coastlines of South America’s furthest frontier. Step into a land of true contrast, where the vast emptiness of silent plains opens out onto towering pillars of granite, glaciers, and huge ice fields second only to those of the Antarctic.

Puerto Pirámides on the Valdés peninsula – and nearby Puerto Madryn to an extent – is a veritable year-round water wonderland, a sanctuary for elephant seals, sea lions and fur seals, often frequented by pods of orcas, and even calving Southern right whales between the winter months of July and September. When summer arrives, head south to Punta Tombo to find the world’s largest colony of Magellanic penguins who are resident from September to March, and continue down the coast to Puerto Deseado for a frivolous festival of flippers, fins, feathers and fur, as you witness charismatic rockhopper penguins, five species of cormorant and Commerson’s dolphins in the estuary and a huge fur seal colony at the Cabo Blanco Natural Reserve. Finally you’ll reach the end of the world – well, its southernmost city – Ushuaia, the gateway to the dramatic Tierra Del Fuego National Park , a fossil-rich land of superlative natural beauty filled with waterfalls, forests, mountains and glaciers.

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How to Plan a Trip to Patagonia in 2022

Give me sharp mountains and frozen landscapes, demanding hikes and wild adventures! Patagonia fits the description and I’ve been willing to explore it since our backpacking trip in 2018/19. Now 2022 opens up traveling possibilities again so the time has come to reach the tip of the continent. Planning my trip to Patagonia wasn’t easy though, due to the multitude of contrasting and ever-changing regulations in 2022. So in this post, I list the steps I’ve taken, the things to know before traveling to Patagonia in 2022 and the entry requirements for both Chile and Argentina.

Jump to: Why Patagonia?   |  Landmarks in Patagonia   | Restrictions and requirements

FAQ: How long should I stay?   | How to get there?  |  How to get around?   |  Border crossing   |  Best time to go   |  Average cost

Planning a trip in the shadow of the coronavirus

The COVID-19 pandemic –especially its Omicron variant– brought a new twist to the travel world. I expected a great deal of difficulty in organising this trip and I wasn’t mistaken. Planning any trip abroad has become more tiresome, requires more considerations and guesswork.

Am I going to be let into the country with my current vaccination status? Will I be able to move freely within the country? Will COVID restrictions allow me to do the activities I want to?

Why travel to Patagonia in 2022?

Like me, you patiently endured being locked at home for several months. You carried on dreaming about wild landscapes while being restricted to your neighbourhood. When the time has come, you enjoyed (re)discovering your local nature spots. But truth be told, some need for foreignness and adventure is still pulsing, right?

Counting 9 National Parks, Patagonia is an absolute hikers’ paradise. It boasts the most extreme landscapes: snow-capped mountains, colourful highland lagunas, dramatic glaciers (that we might not be able to enjoy for long because of climate change) and overall a vast and constant remoteness, sprinkled here and there with adorable penguins.

But it also offers other outdoor activities such as sea kayaking, glacier walks and sailing amid the Patagonian fjords.

More of the fun: Get some Patagonia trip ideas from our previous travel in northern Patagonia Argentina  and Chile’s Los Lagos region.

Orientation in Patagonia

Patagonia is the very southern region of South America, shared between Argentina and Chile. In both countries, there’s an iconic road leading through the region. That road in Argentina is the RN 40; in Chile it’s called “Carretera Austral”.

Patagonia’s gigantic size means it takes several weeks to travel from north to south. Therefore the region in both countries is usually split into northern and southern Patagonia.

Northern Patagonia

Northern Patagonia in Argentina is called “ Lake District ” and stretches from San Martin de los Andes to El Bolsón. The main landmarks include also the town of Bariloche, Volcan Lanín and the Seven-Lakes Road. We visited this magical area in 2019, so check out our Patagonia trekking tips for the Lake District .

Chile’s northern Patagonia corresponds to the “ Los Lagos ” region, stretching along the Carretera Austral from Puerto Montt to Vila O’Higgins. The main landmarks are Cochamo, Hornopiren National Park, Queulat National Park, the Marble Caves (Catedral de Marmol) and Patagonia National Park.

The Carretera Austral ends in Villa O’Higgins; to go further south, you’ll have to take a ferry boat or a flight. For more info and links, check out the travel in Patagonia section below.

Southern Patagonia

Southern Patagonia in Argentina stretches from Esquel until the very southern tip, Tierra del Fuego , the “land of fire”. (Expensive) boat trips also reach the mysterious Antarctica.

The main landmarks in Argentina’s Southern Patagonia are: Perito Moreno glacier, Mount Fitz Roy, the small town of El Chaltén and Tierra del Fuego, with Ushuaia as its biggest town.

Chile’s Southern Patagonia is marked by Torres del Paine National Park , the single biggest hiking attraction in the Chilean South. You can reach it from the towns of Puerto Natales or Punta Arenas. Chile also has a share of Tierra del Fuego, but it’s a very remote place with little to no infrastructure.

The Perito Moreno Glacier is part of our collection of best treks in South America .

Most important things to know when planning a trip to Patagonia

1. patagonia travel restrictions: entry requirements for chile and/or argentina, current entry requirements to chile (as of feb 2022):.

• Register your vaccines well in advance (1 month before your trip) on Chile’s official vaccination page .
• Book a travel insurance with COVID-19 cover for minimum 30,000 USD.
• PCR test maximum 72 hours before flight
• Fill out the traveler’s form maximum 48 hours before your flight
• Upon arriving in Chile, you must do one more free antigen or PCR test (it’s really free, paid by Chile) and wait for the results in isolation (max 12 hours). With a negative result, you’ll receive your Pase de Movilidad (“Mobility Pass”), allowing you to travel freely within the country
• During 10 days, report on your health status daily online.

Apart from the above entry requirements, there are no other travel restrictions in Patagonia. To make sure, check the current requirements on Chile’s official health website .

Current entry requirements to Argentina (as of Feb 2022):

• Book a travel insurance covering COVID-19
• If you were spending the last 14 days prior to entering Argentina in neighbouring countries: show proof of full vaccination; no need to test or quarantine
• If you were not spending the last 14 days in neighbouring countries: show proof of full vaccination and PCR test 72 hours before the flight; or an antigen test 48 hours before the flight
• You must carry those documents with you at all times for 14 days after entering the country; no need to report your health status

Check the current requirements on Argentina’s official health website .

2. How long should my trip in Patagonia last?

Rather than staying within one country and travel lengthwise, it usually makes more sense to visit either the northern or the southern part of Patagonia and cross the border. At least it was so before crossing border became such a pain.

I recommend a minimum of 2 weeks to see the landmarks in the North. But Southern Patagonia in both countries is wilder and travels might prove lengthy; you want about 3 weeks to make the most of it.

If your goal is to see and hike both northern and southern Patagonia, you should count with 4 weeks minimum.

3. Do I want to/Can I see Patagonia both in Argentina and Chile?

My answer would normally be a definite yes; but in COVID times, border-crossing has become a lot of hassle, with several compulsory tests and regular health checks required.

Also, many border points are closed; so crisscrossing from Chile to Argentina can be time-consuming and tiresome and require too much planning.

Since February 2022 though, Argentina has loosened the entry requirements for those of us coming from neighbouring countries. It’s now easier to travel to Chile for at least 14 days and then cross over to Argentina. Check the border crossing section below before visiting Patagonia.

Check out some of the best national parks in Chile .

4. Is flying between northern and southern Patagonia an option?

In Chile, there’s no road between north and south Patagonia; so you can only choose between flight or ferry. About this and for links to the relevant companies, see the traveling through Patagonia section.

While in Argentina, you can stick to sustainable transportation as the RN 40 road runs through the entire Patagonia.

5. Should I see a lot of places or rather take more time hiking at each place?

Count with amazing multiday hikes, such as the 4-day W-trek or the 9-day O-circuit in Torres del Paine; but also in other, lesser-known national parks such as Cerro Castillo with a circuit of 4 days.

Take a look at the 16 best multi-day hikes in Patagonia , both Chile and Argentina

Also, traveling between destinations either in a car or on the bus often takes long hours or even a day. Given the vastness of Patagonia, it’s easy to spend too much time on the road instead of enjoying its nature. Having said that, the road is the goal and views during a Patagonia roadtrip are not the less stunning.

How to get to Patagonia

There are no/few international flights to Patagonia; so your entry will likely be from either capital city: Buenos Aires in Argentina or Santiago in Chile.

Patagonia airports in Argentina

• Bariloche (north)
• El Calafate (south)
• Ushuaia (south)

Patagonia airports in Chile

• Puerto Montt (north)
• Balmaceda (north)
• Punta Arenas (south)

Budgeting your transportation

If you are on a budget, an important consideration will be the price of flights to Patagonia. In Argentina there are no budget airlines, only the main Aerolineas Argentinas . If you are arriving from outside Argentina, your Patagonia trip is probably going to start from Buenos Aires flying with this national carrier.

If you give yourself time, road travel is an affordable solution, probably the best sustainable way to travel within Patagonia. The RN 40 road stretches all the way to southern Patagonia. You can then take a short ferry journey to Isla del Fuego and finish to Ushuaia on the RN 3.

Chile does have budget airlines – JetSmart and Sky Airline – which offer cheap fares from Santiago to Puerto Montt, Balmaceda and Punta Arenas. Your entry to Patagonia Chile will likely be from Santiago as there are virtually no international flights directly to Puerto Montt or Punta Arenas.

Since there’s no road all the way down in Chile, you’ll either fly or take a scenic ferry boat. Compare the prices well at the time of your Patagonia trip. The ferry can be cheaper than a low-cost airline, especially if you must pay an additional fee for hold luggage.

In general, both in Argentina and in Chile, bus transportation is much cheaper than renting a car.

How to get around Patagonia

Land travel on the Carretera Austral is a good option, either with a rented car, public buses or by hitchhiking. According to a local friend, hitchhiking still works in Patagonia as of January 2022. Unfortunately, information on public buses is not available online so that part of the trip remains open to improvisation.

Since that road doesn’t go all the way south, the more scenic and sustainable option is to take a ferry boat. It goes from Caleta Torel (north) to Puerto Natales (south) and lasts 1.5 days. Ferries travel only once a week, so good planning is of the essence.

Check out the local ferry company on their website (Spanish only). Alternatively, a company called Navimag offers a more luxurious ferry boat between Puerto Montt and Puerto Natales lasting 4 days; check it out here .

In Argentina

In Argentina, the RN 40 travels throughout Patagonia, so a Patagonia road trip all the way is perfectly possible. Buses also cover the route, check out bus timetables here . And a few useful tips for bus travel in South America (from our travels in 2019).

Be inspired by our selections of the most beautiful National Parks in Argentina .

Border-crossing between Chile and Argentina

There are several borders between the 2 countries in Patagonia:

In the north

• Paso Fronterizo Pérez Rosales near Puerto Montt (currently open 8am-8pm; number of people who can pass is capped at 180 – as of Feb 2022).

In the south

• Paso Fronterizo Los Antiguos – Chile Chico, near Torres del Paine and El Calafate (currently open 8am-4pm; number of people capped at 100)
• Paso Fronterizo Río Turbio – Torres del Paine (no restrictions mentioned)
• Paso Fronterizo Río Turbio – Puerto Natales near Torres del Paine / Punta Natales (no restrictions on opening hours or number of people reported)
• Paso Fronterizo Río Gallegos – Punta Arenas, at Tierra del Fuego (currently open 10am-4pm; number of people capped at 200)

The state of the borders is as of Feb 2022, and remember that they may open or close any time. So please always check them on Argentina’s official site (in Spanish).

Best time to travel to Patagonia

This wild region offers a different landscape in almost every season. Snow lovers might choose the Southern winter months, from June to September. But keep in mind the drastic temperatures (3°C / 37°F on average) and many things can be closed, including roads.

Summer months (December-February) are of course much milder, with an average of 12°C / 54°F. But it’s also the busiest season, when prices go up and you’ll need to book campsites and tours in advance.

With this in mind, we advise the shoulder seasons, as for most places: Fall (March-May) or Spring (October-December) . Thinking of all the beautiful autumn colours, I’m so excited to travel there in March this year!

Average Patagonia trip cost

To give you a bit of an idea of what costs to expect, here’s the breakdown of the budget I actually spent for my 3-week Patagonia trip in Chile, in March 2022 (updated upon return from the trip):

• Flight return ticket Lisbon (Portugal) – Santiago (Chile): 800 USD
• Flight from Santiago to Punta Arenas (south Patagonia, Chile): 70 USD
• Bus from Punta Arenas to Puerto Natales (gateway to Torres del Paine): 9 USD
• Torres del Paine entrance + campsites booked for the O-circuit (9 days): 120 USD
• Ferry from Puerto Natales to Caleta Torel: 128 USD
• Flight from Balmaceda (north Patagonia, Chile) to Santiago: 70 USD
• Other Patagonia national park entrance fees + camping: 54 USD
• Travel insurance: 140 USD
• Bus travel in north Patagonia: depending on the distance – on the Carretera Austral between towns it was 10 USD for a 4-hr journey
• Hostal accommodation (room for 2 people with shared bathroom): 42 USD

In total with 8 days in Torres del Paine, bus on Carretera Austral, and hostel for 13 days: 1768 USD

Are you planning a trip to Patagonia? Or have you been there recently? Tell us about your planning or traveling experiences in the comments!

Don’t miss any of our Patagonia travel tips!

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Anna is a world citizen, an avid traveller, a passionate environmentalist and a digital nomad. Writing about her year backpacking through South America, she tries to encourage everyone to discover this beautiful continent as a traveller or a digital nomad and pass on her love for responsible travel.

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This looks wonderful, Anna! I hope you have a great trip.

Thanks a lot, Kevin and many greetings to you!

Hi Anna, how was your trip? I’m looking to go in October and this post is really helping me!

Hi Marjo, happy to read that the post is helping you plan your trip!

The Patagonian part of my trip was very nice, especially loved the hiking and the scenery. Our tent broke in Torres del Paine, and it was also very cold at night (sometimes around 0 degrees) that our tent was not prepared for, so we decided to stay in the cheapest accommodation we found after camping: hostals. For a room for 2 people we paid 35,000 CLP (42 USD) on average. This increased the overall costs, unfortunately, but at least we managed to hitchhike sometimes on the Carretera Austral and save on the bus ticket. We just walked into hostals upon arriving in the town, as those hostals are not on any booking site. Since it was low season, many of the accommodations, restaurants and other businesses were closed – I expect the same for October. Covid didn’t shake the region though, people didn’t really care about mask or checking the mobility pass.

Are you planning to hike in Patagonia? I’ve just published a new post about the multi-day hikes in Patagonia , and feel free to ask any other questions. Have a wonderful trip, and please let me know how it went!

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Patagonia: Torres Del Paine ‘O’ Trek – 8 Days

• Hiking & Trekking
• Mountain Hikes
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Traveled in February 2024

• Introduction
• Day 1 Transport to the Parque Nacional Torres del Paine and Trekking to Camping Serón
• Day 2 Trekking to the Dickson Glacier
• Day 3 Trekking to Los Perros
• Day 4 Trekking to Sector Grey
• Day 5 Trekking to sector Francés
• Day 6 Valle del Francés
• Day 7 Sector Central
• Day 8 Trekking Base Torres

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This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing.

Weekend in Moscow

This tour is a great way to get acquainted with the capital of Russia if you are short of time. You will see all the main attractions of the city, the most important of which is the Kremlin - the heart of Russia. The tour starts on Friday and can be combined with a business trip.

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Russia's capital has so much to offer, from the Kremlin and the Metro to the Old Arbat street and the Tretyakov Gallery. Besides these sites, you will also visit a fascinating country estate which today is quite off the beaten path, Gorky Estate, where the Soviet leader Lenin spent the last months of his life.

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Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

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Our Moscow tours are land only meaning that you arrange your own air travel to Russia and our expert staff meets you at the airport and handles everything else from there. Our online Airline Ticket booking system offers some of the most competitive rates to Russia available on the web so if you need tickets, please visit our Russian air ticket center . Rest assured that you will be taken great care of on one of our Moscow tours. Express to Russia has a fully staffed office in Moscow that will help to make your visit fun, informative and unforgettable. Please remember that of all these tours are private and can be adjusted to your taste. You can add, replace or skip some sights; you can add more days to the package or cut the tour short. Our specialists will be glad to help you create the tour of your dreams!

Moscow, a City Like No Other

Moscow is Russia’s largest city with a population of between 12 and 13 million. It is also Europe’s largest city and when you visit Moscow, you can feel it. The layout and architecture of the city is eclectic, ranging from crooked, ancient streets and alleyways to wide, bustling boulevards, from medieval churches to Stalin skyscrapers and to modern, glass buildings towering over everything and of course in the center of it all is the Kremlin and the magnificent Red Square. Moscow is also home to a fantastic, efficient and very beautiful metro system – each station having its own special design. In fact, Express to Russia’s Moscow metro tours and excursions are some of our most popular attractions that we offer. On our Moscow tours, you will see this and more.

Moscow Tours centering on Russian History

Moscow has a long and interesting history and has been the capital of Russia in many of its different iterations – capital of the Grand Duchy of Moscow , the Russian Empire and of course the Soviet Union (who could ever forget the Soviet Union?). Moscow, was founded in the 12th century by Prince Yuri Dolgaruki (Yuri of the long arms – he really did have long arms!). From that time on, it was home to the Russian Tsars until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg in 1703. The city has survived invasions and sieges from the Mongols, the Tartars, the Poles, Lithuanians and Napoleon but has always persevered. Our Moscow tours will enlighten you on this great history and give you insights into Muscovites and their unique culture. Our Moscow tours show you what the city is like today but also brings to life the past. Moscow never seems to sleep and is bursting with energy. A Moscow tour with Express to Russia is truly the best way of getting to know Russia’s largest and most vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

What is the best time to visit moscow.

Any time of year is fine depending on what you plan to do. Summertime is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city and its vibrant atmosphere, but Moscow will be much busier and accommodation is more expensive. Winter can be quite cold but beautiful nonetheless, and this is unproblematic if you intend to spend most of your trip in museums and galleries. There are also various festivals and events organised throughout the year. For more information about the best time to visit, read our guide

How many days are enough in Moscow?

If you plan your itinerary strategically and aren’t averse to a packed schedule, you can cover Moscow’s main sights over a long weekend. Most popular attractions are in the city centre, and the Moscow Metro allows you to cover much ground in a small amount of time. Ensure that your accommodation is fairly central and book tickets in advance, so that you can make the most of your days. For an informative and well-organised day out, check out our Moscow day tours with options to suit all interests.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

As Russia’s capital city, tourists are well accommodated in Moscow. There should be English-speaking staff in restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and attractions in tourist hotspots, and there are also English-speaking tourist police. Transport services have English translations on their maps and English announcements via intercom; alternatively, order taxis from the Yandex Taxi app (Russian Uber), though it’s unlikely that your taxi driver will speak English. If you get stuck and cannot communicate, it’s fine to use Google Translate.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow?

It is no less safe to travel to Moscow than to any European city if you exercise common sense and look after your belongings. As with every city some regions can be more unsavoury than others, but no tourist attractions are located there. The traffic in Moscow is notorious, so exercise caution when crossing roads. Do not take unlicensed taxis; book in advance or take public transport, which is widespread and perfectly safe. If you encounter any problems, look for the special tourist police who can help you. For more information, read our guide about staying safe in Russia .

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December in Moscow: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Moscow in December is not for the faint of heart. Despite the fact that it's downright frigid, though, seeing the Russian capital's ornamental sites cloaked in snow is worth going in the colder months.

Whether you're eager to watch the famous ballet perform or more interested in admiring the incredible architecture of Saint Basil's Cathedral (and other landmarks), Moscow has something to offer just about everyone, as long as you bundle up.

The city's winter begins in November and lasts through February. In December, the weather is unusually cold and wet with snow. On average, Moscow sees .7 inches of snow during the whole month, but it isn't the type that clears up after a day or so. With temperatures lingering below freezing, the snow typically sticks around until the big springtime thaw.

The average temperature for this time of year is 23 degrees Fahrenheit (-5 degrees Celsius), although it could dip into the teens at times. Wind chill is a major factor to consider when traveling around Moscow, as it can make the city feel much colder than what it actually is. Winds in December average 12 miles per hour. The city is quite dark during this time of year, too, averaging just seven hours of sunlight per day.

What to Pack

Prepare for the freezing conditions simply by packing as warm as possible. Winter travel is tricky because warm clothes are so bulky and they weigh so much. Rest assured, though, you'll be happy you used your suitcase space on clunky boots and big coats rather than an abundance of cute sweaters when your toes are toasty and dry. Don't forget to bring:

• Hats, gloves, and scarves
• A high-quality coat
• A waterproof shell
• Wool base layers
• Waterproof boots

December Events

Even though Moscow doesn't celebrate Christmas until January, the city still feels festive throughout the month of December with plenty of winter performances and celebrations to ring in the season.

• The annual Winter Festival kicks off in the middle of December and continues until early January. Ice skating, winter markets, and amusement park rides are all part of the fun. 
• " The Nutcracker" originated in Russia, so watching this world-famous ballet in Moscow is a major cultural experience. The Royal Moscow Ballet does the famed Tchaikovsky work justice with 32 dancers, 80 sumptuous costumes, and a visually stunning set.
• On December 31, New Year's Eve celebrations take over Red Square. Consider watching the fireworks display from another vantage point (such as Tverskaya Ulitsa or the Balchug Kempinski Hotel) if you can't handle standing for hours in the cold.

More Travel Tips

• Christmas in Russia takes place on January 7, but the time between Christmas and New Year's is usually a time of rest and vacation for Russian families, many of which jet off to warmer destinations.
• Head to Red Square to see the New Year's Tree and look for decorations at GUM, Arbat Street, and other well-known locations.
• Moscow's outdoor ice skating rinks provide the opportunity to enjoy one of Moscow's most popular cold-weather activities.
• A Moscow museum visit is the perfect way to escape the cold outside. You can easily spend hours in the Tretyakov Gallery, the State Armory Museum, or the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts.
• Some businesses such as restaurants and family-owned stores may close or have reduced hours during the holiday period between Christmas and New Year's.
• While you might be tempted to imbibe the copious amounts of Russian vodka available, consume in moderation: Drunkenness causes heat loss.

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