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Tours to Patagonia

A spectacular land of fragmenting glaciers and teetering icy peaks, Patagonia feels like nowhere else on earth. Encompassing the southern part of the Andes mountain range, Patagonia is split down the middle into Chile and Argentina, and is flanked by oceans on three sides.

 

Why take a Patagonia tour with Explore?

Patagonia is the southernmost region of South America, spanning the lower sections of Argentina and Chile. Covering 1 million km2, Patagonia is known for its spectacular scenery and diverse wildlife, and is home to countless UNESCO World Heritage Sites as well as an acclaimed UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

The jewel in Patagonia’s crown is the Torres del Paine National Park in Chile, one of the most impressive mountain areas on earth. Taking its name from the Tehuelche word Paine, meaning ‘blue’, the park encompasses stunning scenery, with constantly-changing views of peaks, glaciers and icebergs, vividly-coloured lakes of turquoise, ultramarine and grey, and quiet green valleys filled with wild flowers.

On our Adventures in Patagonia trip, choose between a comfortable wildlife hike or a more challenging 22km trek to one of the park's most impressive lookouts. Keen walkers will relish the moderate-to-challenging Fitz Roy and Torres del Paine walking tour, which travels through the heart of Los Glaciares National Park to the magnificent Fitz Roy Massif, and includes the iconic 'W Trek'. Add the Iguazu Extension to your trip and you’ll be rewarded with one of South America’s most mesmerising natural sights, Iguazu Falls. These interconnecting falls hurtle over high cliffs, creating a powerful display that you can witness from both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides.

Want to see the highlights as well as getting off the beaten track? Our Hiking in Patagonia - Glaciers & Torres del Paine tour sees you take on some iconic treks complemented by scores of beautiful glaciers. If you ask us, the real highlight of this trip is an overnight stay at a refuge in the shadows of Cagliero Glacier within Los Huemules Private Reserve. After hikers leave for the day, you’ll feel as if you have the reserve all to yourself.

Our small group tours means you'll be joined by like-minded adventurers and an expert local leader throughout. 

Our Patagonia tours

Argentina, Chile Walking and Trekking Trip code TPF
14 Days From CHF 7636 without flights
Argentina, Chile Discovery Trip code PA
Discounted
Best Seller
14 Days From CHF 5762 without flights
Argentina, Chile Discovery Trip code PAI
Best Seller
17 Days From CHF 6941 without flights
Argentina, Chile Walking and Trekking Trip code WP
NEW
12 Days From CHF 6548 without flights

FAQs about our Patagonia tours

When is the best time to go to Patagonia?
The best time to visit Patagonia is between December to February, which is the summer season in Argentina. The ‘shoulder season’ is another great time to visit – around the end of October to the start of April. 

Because Patagonia is located so far south in the Southern Hemisphere, the weather is very unpredictable, and this is why we recommend travelling during the summer or shoulder seasons. Winters (June-August) in Patagonia can be extremely cold and windy.

What is the accommodation like in Patagonia? 
Patagonia is an area of small towns that give access to the great outdoors, so the accommodation here is all very well-located. Travellers to Patagonia are after a comfortable night’s sleep in accommodation that makes the most of its surroundings, and this is exactly what our accommodation in Patagonia offers.

What should I pack for a trip to Patagonia?
Patagonia’s weather is erratic, so packing for all weathers is essential. One day it can be clear blue skies from start to end, while the following day the winds could bring the clouds rolling in. A windproof, waterproof jacket is a must-have, along with walking poles for the hiking. 

Comfortable walking boots or shoes are necessary, and sunglasses, suncream and lipbalm with sun protection will all come in handy. In the evenings, comfortable, casual clothes with a warm fleece or jumper are perfect for going to the local restaurants. You don’t need anything fancy or smart with you – everyone in Patagonia dresses for the outdoors and the elements, so comfort is key.

Why is Patagonia so famous?
Patagonia is renowned for its variety of breathtaking landscapes, from vast forests and national parks to rugged mountains and glaciers. Located at the southern tip of South America, the Patagonia region spans across Argentina and Chile, offering plenty of natural beauty and adventure. 

With such varied landscapes, Patagonia is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts – and our small group tours to Patagonia certainly don’t disappoint. Plus, Patagonia has a global reputation for its environmental conservation and sustainable tourism practices. The combination of natural splendour and eco-conscious practices makes Patagonia a truly iconic destination. 

What are the best hikes in Patagonia? 
By far the most famous trek in Patagonia is the W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park. This five-day trek is arguably the most mind-blowing and scenic trek in Patagonia - each day is full of glaciers, snow-capped peaks and emerald lagoons, with constant views of the granite spires – or towers - that give Torres its name. 

Aside from the W Trek, you can’t escape incredible scenery in Patagonia, with the Fitz Roy Massif in Chalten giving Torres del Paine a run for its money. Here, the classic trek to Laguna de los Tres is the most well-known hike, taking hikers to the emerald lagoon of Los Tres at the foot of Mount Fitz Roy. 

Another shorter but equally iconic hike is a trek on the ice of Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park. This enormous natural masterpiece calves off at an incredible rate - hiking on the ice itself is a unique way to get up close. 

Is the water in Patagonia safe to drink?
Water is safe to drink in most places in the park. If you’re worried, we always recommend travelling with a Water-to-Go bottle, a reusable bottle with a filter that eliminated over 99.9% of all microbiological contaminants from any non-salt water source. Look after your health, and protect beautiful Patagonia from single-use plastics. Win-win.

Is Patagonia a good destination for solo travellers?
Patagonia is a great destination to travel solo with a small group. And on an Explore trip you’ll be in great company – around 50% of people on our group trips are travelling solo. Our trips attract people from all over the world who love to explore, discover and share their passion for travel. 

The experiences you share and the friends you make along the way are the reasons why so many solo travellers travel with us again and again.

Is Patagonia better in Chile or Argentina?
Honestly? There’s no wrong answer! The Argentinian region of Patagonia is geographically larger than the Chilean region, meaning there’s lots to see and do. That doesn’t make the Chilean region of Patagonia any less appealing, though – in fact, because it’s slightly smaller, this makes it easier to explore the best sights, including the Torres del Paine National Park, an undeniable highlight in Patagonia. Take in the best sights and lesser-known gems of Argentina and Chile on our range of Patagonia tours.