Patagonia is a huge region shared by southern Argentina and southern Chile, and the main challenges are distance, wind and changing weather. A little planning, especially around bookings, makes the trip much smoother.
Where is Patagonia?
Patagonia covers the southern end of South America, split between Argentina and Chile. Popular bases include El Calafate and El Chaltén in Argentina, Puerto Natales (for Torres del Paine) in Chile, Ushuaia in Tierra del Fuego, and Bariloche in the northern lake district. Many travelers choose one side or a single area, since the places are far apart.
Best time to go
The main season runs from about November to March, during the southern spring and summer. December to February is usually the warmest and busiest period, with the highest prices. November and March are often described as good shoulder months with fewer people, and March can bring autumn colors. Some services close or run less often outside the main season, so check before planning a winter trip.
Weather and wind
Weather can change several times in a day, even in summer. Wind is often the real challenge, and it can be strong enough to affect walking and boat trips. Plan with some flexibility, and keep a spare day in case a tour or boat is cancelled. Do not rely on a single clear-weather day for a key activity.
How many days do you need?
- 4 to 5 days: One base, such as El Calafate and El Chaltén, or Torres del Paine.
- 7 to 10 days: One country, with two or three bases.
- 2 weeks or more: Argentina and Chile together, or add Ushuaia.
Distances are bigger than most people expect, and buses can take many hours between towns.
Which airport should you fly into?
The best airport depends on your route:
- El Calafate (FTE): For Perito Moreno Glacier and El Chaltén, in Argentina.
- Punta Arenas (PUQ) or Puerto Natales area: For Torres del Paine, in Chile. Punta Arenas is the main regional airport, and Puerto Natales is a few hours away by road.
- Ushuaia (USH): For Tierra del Fuego and many Antarctic cruises.
- Bariloche (BRC): For the northern lake district.
Many travelers use Buenos Aires or Santiago as the connection point. Flying “open jaw” into one airport and out of another can save backtracking.
Sample routes
- Argentina focus: El Calafate, then El Chaltén, then back to El Calafate or on to Ushuaia.
- Chile focus: Punta Arenas or Puerto Natales, then Torres del Paine.
- Both countries: El Calafate, El Chaltén and Torres del Paine, linked by long bus rides or a border crossing near Puerto Natales.
For broader Argentine trip ideas, see our guide to the best places to visit in Argentina.
What to book ahead
- Torres del Paine: Campsites and refugios on popular multi-day routes such as the W Trek and the O Circuit usually need to be reserved in advance (our 5 day backpacking trips guide explains how hut and campsite routes are paced), and entry rules may change, so check the official park information.
- Accommodation in the high season: Small towns like El Chaltén and Puerto Natales have limited beds, so book early for December to February.
- Glacier trips and boat tours: Book ahead in peak season, or book immediately after you confirm your dates.
- Long-distance buses and flights: Popular routes can sell out, especially in summer.
Flexibility is valuable, but reservations matter most for the places that have very limited capacity.
Where to stay
- El Calafate: A good base for the glacier, with a wide range of hotels and hostels.
- El Chaltén: Small, hiker-friendly town with hostels, guesthouses and a few hotels.
- Puerto Natales: The gateway town for Torres del Paine, with many hostels and hotels.
- Inside Torres del Paine: Refugios and campsites, plus a few lodges at the higher end.
- Ushuaia and Bariloche: Larger towns with many options.
Good walks
You do not need to be an expert to enjoy Patagonia. A few well-known options (our guide to the best travel destinations for hiking compares other regions):
- Laguna de los Tres or Laguna Torre (El Chaltén): Classic day hikes to Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre viewpoints. Both are long days, but the paths are well established. Shorter trails also start from town.
- Base of the Towers (Torres del Paine): A demanding day, or part of a longer route.
- Grey Glacier viewpoints and other shorter trails: Easier options in Torres del Paine, depending on the entrance and path you use.
- Perito Moreno walkways: Easy, short and suitable for most visitors.
Check current trail conditions, and carry water, food and warm layers on any long hike.
What to pack
- Layers: a base layer, fleece or light insulated jacket, and a waterproof, windproof shell.
- Sturdy, broken-in walking shoes or boots.
- A hat, gloves and sunglasses, plus sunscreen, because the sun can be strong.
- A daypack with a rain cover, and a reusable bottle.
- Cash for places that do not take cards, since payment options can be limited in small towns.
A note on money
Prices in Patagonia tend to be higher than in other parts of Argentina and Chile, partly because of the remote locations. Currency rules and exchange rates in Argentina have changed repeatedly over the years, so check the current situation before you travel and carry a mix of payment options.