Why Visit Argentina?

Argentina is one of the most remote places on the planet. It is the third most populated country in South America, and the largest Spanish-speaking country in the world! The distinct and breathtakingly beautiful geography of Argentina includes high deserts, forests, lakes, and mountains. Each year, thousands of tourists flock to the country to experience its history, culture, unique, cuisine, and magnificent outdoor spaces. And there is good news for international travelers – Argentina travel specialists are standing by to help you plan a one-of-a-kind trip!

Backroad Patagonia Hiking in Los Glaciares National Park

Avid outdoor enthusiasts flock to Argentina because of the amazing series of mountain trails that make for great hiking. Many South American small group travel itineraries that focus on hiking begin with a trip to El Calafate. El Calafate is a city in Argentina that is located on the southern border of Lake Argentino. It is a popular tourist destination, as well as a hub for those venturing into Los Glaciares National Park to hike and explore.

There are many hikes, of varying degrees of difficulty, that are offered on a backroad Patagonia hiking tour. A few of the most popular are listed below:

• Fitz Roy is the tallest mountain in the Argentine Patagonia. Hiking in this area is suitable for both moderately fit hikers and more experienced mountaineers. Argentina travel specialists offer day hikes to the base of this mountain that are suitable for the casual walker but also have multi-day treks that include camping and a trip to the mountain’s summit for the more active adventurer.
• The Laguna Torre trek is another popular trek in Los Glaciares National Park that ends at a lagoon that was formed by a glacier. This is an easy day hike that takes approximately 6 hours round-trip. The starting point is next to the River Fitz Roy. After about one hour, you’ll arrive at Mirador Torre, where you can get a view of the countryside. Then, follow the trail downhill until you arrive at Laguna Torre, where you can rest before heading back!
• The trek to the base of Mount Fitz Roy will take you to Laguna de Los Tres. There are two starting points to the trail, both with different scenery! If you start at Hostaria El Pilar, you will travel along the Rio Blanco for about two hours while shaded by trees. Once you reach your first lookout point at Mirador Piedras Blanca, you will get your first view of Mount Fitz Roy. After a while, the trail will split in two and you can follow the one to Laguna de Los Tres at the base of the mountain.

Take a Cruise Around A Glacier

Argentina is home to many glaciers, some easier to access than others. If you are looking for a truly unique experience, visiting the Upsala Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park should be on your bucket list. The Upsala Glacier forms a tongue of ice that is 31 miles long and 6 feet wide. It is several miles thick and at its core, there is a long, dark stripe formed by a collection of rocks, sand, and clay transported by smaller glaciers and trapped inside when two tongues of ice converged.

The only way to see this remote glacier is by boat. Many South America small group travel companies can arrange for you to visit this remote outpost of Patagonia, where you will board a small boat and take a tour around the glacier in Lake Argentino. From the ship, you will be able to take photos of the towering icebergs in the Upsala Glacier Chanel as well as the famous glacier itself. You will also have the opportunity to learn about the geological history of the glacier during the trip from tour guides who are familiar with the area.

Go Trekking on the Perito Moreno Glacier

The famous Perito Moreno Glacier, located in Los Glaciares National Park, is one of the most popular destinations in Argentina! Unlike many other glaciers around the world, the Perito Moreno Glacier continues to accumulate ice at a rate similar to its loss. Although scientists cannot explain this unique phenomenon, it makes the glacier one of the top destinations recommended by Argentina travel specialists. There are many ways to see the glacier, but the most popular is to trek across its surface. The two main types of tours offered are:

• Big Ice Trekking – this full-day trip in Los Glaciares National Park usually includes a boat cruise to the glacier, where you will meet your guide, don crampons, and hike across the stunning mass of ice! Along the way, your guide will point out ice caves, waterfalls, and deep crevasses. You can enjoy a picnic lunch on top of the glacier while learning about the glacier’s formation, geography, and flora from your guide.
• Mini-trekking – for those who do not want to spend a full day trekking across the surface of the Perito Moreno Glacier, a mini-trekking option is available. This three-hour, guided tour offers visitors a hassle-free hike across the surface of a stunning glacier. Your guide will provide all the necessary equipment, and you will have the opportunity to learn about the area’s history, culture, flora, and fauna as you explore the glacier’s surface.

Explore The Argentina Countryside By Horseback

If you are looking for a unique South America small group travel opportunity, consider booking a tour across the awe-inspiring Patagonian landscape by horse! Several Argentina travel specialists offer this unique option to travelers who are looking for a fun experience. One of the most popular tours includes exploring the most remote corners of Los Glaciares National Park from your trusty steed. Along the way, you can explore the Andean woodland, blue lakes, mountains, and hidden glaciers that most travelers do not have the opportunity to see. Travel where vehicles cannot travel for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Working with an Argentina travel specialist guarantees that your trip to Argentina will be memorable! Whether you choose to take a backroad Patagonia hiking trip or trek across the surface of a glacier, you can be sure that you will experience a unique adventure. So, start packing! Patagonia is calling.