Why Should I Take A Patagonia South America Vacation?

Stretching across Chile and Argentina, Patagonia has been a destination for travelers enamored of its soaring mountain peaks and glacial landscapes that reach the end of the world. Snow-capped mountains, blue fjords, and old-growth forests sprawl across rugged, sparsely inhabited landscapes, ending at massive glaciers that mark the southernmost point of the Americas. Simply put, Patagonia’s beauty is hard to ignore. Fortunately, many Argentina packages with reputable tour companies will help you explore this incredible region!

The Best Time To Visit Argentina Patagonia

When you are planning your Argentina tour itinerary, the first thing you should do is figure out when you want to visit Patagonia. Though most hotels in the region are open year-round, you may discover that certain amenities and activities geared toward tourists are unavailable from April to September, which is the Southern Hemisphere’s winter season. But if you want to avoid the crowds during peak tourist season while still enjoying good weather, consider visiting during the following two time periods:

• Spring – if you visit Patagonia during the spring months (September – December), you will enjoy mild weather. The region will be covered in blooming wildflowers, creating a spectacular backdrop for all your adventures.
• Fall – if you want to see Patagonia’s leaves turn a fiery mosaic of red, orange, and yellow, consider visiting during March, April, or May. Fall in Patagonia is generally mild and amenities for travelers are still up and running. But, you will avoid the crowds that the summer season brings to the region.

Both the spring and autumn seasons are the most photogenic times of year in the region if you are interested in capturing the landscape on camera. But it’s also a great time of year to hike Patagonia’s amazing trails without the pressure of a crowded trailhead. It may be a bit colder than the summer months, but not having to fight other tourists for a chance to enjoy the region’s natural attractions is a definite plus.

What To Bring On Your Patagonia Adventure

If you’re planning a Patagonia South America vacation, it’s important to remember that the weather in Patagonia is highly unpredictable. The weather and temperature can change without warning, and strong storms can sweep in from the Pacific at a moment’s notice. To stay comfortable, you must pack accordingly. Consider the following items to bring along on your trip:

• Waterproof jacket
• Trekking boots
• Long thermal underwear (wicking preferred)
• Waterproof pants
• Light pullover or sweatshirt
• A fleece or down liner
• Waterproof parka or weatherproof coat
• A hat for sun protection
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Wind-blocking gloves
• Long trekking socks
• A neck gaiter
• Bug spray
• Headlamp

Depending on your Argentina tour itinerary, these are the necessities to help keep you comfortable! If you are planning more active adventures, you may need to pack additional gear.

How Do I Get To Patagonia?

The distances between attractions are quite long in Argentina Patagonia, so you will probably want to fly to the region to simply save time. However, airline seats fill up quickly during peak tourist season, so you should purchase tickets at least six months in advance! From Buenos Aires, you can book a flight to El Calafate or Ushuaia, which are the two primary entryways to Patagonia. Both are less than a four-hour flight from Buenos Aires. Alternatively, there is a bus service from Buenos Aires to El Calafate, but that generally is a day-long (if not more!) trip.

5 Things To Know Before You Go

Before you plan your Patagonia South America vacation, there are a few things to keep in mind.

• Argentina's portion of Patagonia is larger and more geographically diverse than Chile's portion, which can make getting around more challenging for visitors.
• Some natural attractions have strict age limits — typically from 18 to 65 years old — that differ by tour. Check the restrictions ahead of time so that you won’t be disappointed!
• Avid hikers should visit El Chaltén in November or April to avoid heavy crowds.
• Outdoor equipment is expensive in Argentina, so be certain you’re well-equipped before traveling.
• The Andes Mountains block many of the storms that roll in from the Pacific! This means Argentina Patagonia is often drier than the Chilean side.

What To Do In Patagonia

If you are looking to fill up your Argentina tour itinerary with fun things to do, keep reading! We have the scoop on some of the top attractions in Patagonia that you won’t want to miss.

• Visit the Perito Moreno Glacier – this 97-square-mile glacier attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year. Located near El Calafate in Los Glaciares National Park, it’s one of the world’s most exceptional ice fields and a must-see attraction. You can take a cruise on Lake Argentino to see the glacier from below and witness colossal icebergs calving from the glacier. Or, you can book a tour that will take you trekking across the face of the glacier for a truly unique perspective on this natural wonder.
• Experience an Estancia – estancias, or ranches, offer tourists a glimpse into the rural life of Patagonian ranchers. The century-old Estancia Cristina on Lake Argentino and Nibepo Aike, a working cattle ranch near El Calafate, are popular destinations for tourists. Unspoiled landscapes and opportunities to hike, horseback ride, and visit the area’s stunning glaciers are abundant.
• Hike at El Chalten – this laidback hiking hamlet is famous for the towering Fitz Roy Mountain. The tiny frontier town is a tourist destination that attracts avid hikers no matter what time of year. The nearby mountain ranges offer a network of scenic trails that are suited to every skill level.
• Travel to the End of The World – visit Tierra del Fuego. Ushuaia, the archipelago’s capital city, offers tourists boat cruises to see penguins, sea lions, and cormorants. Or visit Tierra del Fuego National Park to experience a sub-Antarctic rainforest filled with beech trees.

No matter where you visit on your Patagonia South America vacation, it’s sure to be exceptional. Leave the planning to a reputable tour company, so that you don’t have to worry about planning your Argentina tour itinerary. Then, sit back and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime! Buen viaje – aventure awaits in Patagonia.