Patagonia’s landscape will capture your eye the moment you land. This unique destination is not a country, but a region with parts in Chile and parts in Argentina. On the Chilean side, you’ll find fjords and rainforests, the Argentine side, grasslands and deserts. When you travel anywhere, you want to see the best of the best. Here are some of the best places to visit on your Patagonian adventure. Get ready to be inspired to take a journey to this incredible place!
Parque National Los Glaciares
Located on the Argentine side of Patagonia, Parque National Los Glaciares offers you the perfect opportunity to check out some glaciers. While watching a glacier might not seem like the most thrilling thing to do when traveling abroad, Glacier Moreno is constantly changing, moving forward up to two meters each day.
Puerto Madryn
Sticking to the Argentine side, Puerto Madryn is a fabulous place to go whale watching. You’ll find more whales between June and December and typical tours last between an hour to an hour and a half.
El Chaltén
Another experience on the Argentine side is the plethora of outdoor activities at El Chaltén. For all of you outdoor adventurers, this is the place to be. The mountains provide a beautiful backdrop for hiking, rock climbing, horseback riding, and so much more. Ice climbing and trekking are also available.
Bariloche
Argentine Patagonia’s Bariloche is located in the lake district. There are numerous lakes to explore in this region so don’t forget to pack a swimsuit and jump in, if you aren’t afraid of some cooler temperatures - about 45 degrees to be more accurate. If freezing water isn’t your thing, try some local chocolate the region is known for. Skiing, hiking, and trekking are also popular activities around Bariloche and the Seven Lakes.
El Bolson
Just south of Bariloche, you’ll happen upon El Bolson. This mountain town is known for its artisan crafts and locally grown foods. The quiet town will give you a nice escape from the hustle and bustle of a larger city.
Punta Arenas
Heading over to the Chilean side of Patagonia, Punta Arenas is the hub. This central location is a bustling town with historical landmarks such as the Lord Lonsdale Shipwreck and the Contanera del Estrecho. The homes in Punta Arenas are also a joy to explore as they honor 19th and 20th-century architecture.
Torres del Paine National Park
The W trek in Torres del Paine National Park, in Chile, is one of the most popular treks to embark on. Approximately 32 miles of terrain beckons to be explored. Hikers typically take 5 days for this journey and spot lots of glaciers, one of which is Glacier Grey.
Beagle Channel
This channel has been a topic of dispute between Argentina and Chile for many years. It runs between both countries but has been under Chilean control for years. The Beagle Channel is approximately 149 miles long and is typically a bit colder with lots of glaciers nearby. Sometimes it even snows during the summer. Depending on where on the channel you are, you could see a variety of animals such as sea lions, seals, penguins, whales, and dolphins.
Marble Caves
You will not want to miss the marble caves on the Chilean side of Patagonia. If you want bluer water with a more marble effect on the caves, go during the winter months. You’ll have to take a boat ride to get to the caves but it will be worth it. Don’t forget your camera, you won’t want to leave without capturing it all.
Isla Magdalena
For all of you animal lovers, this is a must-see destination in Chile. On Isla Magdalena, you’ll have the opportunity to walk around with penguins! How cool is that? There are over 120,000 Magellanic penguins here. This will be an experience in Patagonia you won’t soon forget.
Patagonia is chock full of incredible things to do and places to see. From water activities to hiking and wildlife sightings, during your trip to Patagonia, you’ll see it all. If you want to see this incredible region for yourself, book our Patagonia Safari trip today! You’ll make memories for a lifetime and leave with enough photos to fill multiple books of your travel to Patagonia.
Post written by Allison Steinke