Patagonian Panorama
From Santiago to Buenos Aires, take in the natural wonders of Patagonia in under two weeks. Explore Chile and Argentina’s capital cities, visit the mystical island of Chiloe, marvel at the world famous Perito Moreno Glacier and explore Torres del Paine National Park by boat.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Santiago
Day 1 Santiago
Tuesday. Upon arrival at Santiago Airport you'll be met and transferred to your hotel. This afternoon there is a walking tour of the capital, visiting a few of the many museums, markets and parks of Chile's cosmopolitan capital.
Day 2 Optional excursion to Valaparaiso
Day 2 Optional excursion to Valaparaiso
Today is free for you to independently explore Santiago at your own pace or join an optional excursion to Valaparaiso, which is a lively seaport built on a series of hills, overlooking the seaside resort of Vina del Mar. In Chile’s second city you can explore the steep, winding streets and see the brightly coloured colonial homes or take a ride in one of the wooden funiculars to one of the cliff-top communities.
Time permitting you may wish to visit one of the local vineyards situated just outside of Santiago to learn about the process of making wine and sample some Chilean favourites.
Day 3 The Chilean Lake District
Day 3 The Chilean Lake District
Santiago – Puerto Varas. This morning we travel to the lakeside town of Puerto Varas in the Chilean Lake District. After a short 2-hour flight we arrive at the ‘City of Roses’ where we marvel at the two snow-capped volcanoes overlooking this picturesque town. We have the rest of the afternoon at leisure to wander along the lakeside promenade and appreciate the Chilean-German architecture and traditions that still run deep through the town or take a trip to Coastal Street to sample some amazing local delicacies.
Day 4 Chiloe
Day 4 Chiloe
Today we visit the mystical island of Chiloe which is just a short ferry ride from the mainland but feels worlds apart. We take the ferry across to Chacao where we meet our local guide to explore the island. We visit the plaza in Chacao, taking in the traditional architecture, which includes the famous stilted houses and wooden churches the island is famous for. We then continue to the Bay of Caulin which boasts a huge array of birdlife and here we taste oysters before continuing to Ancud for lunch.
After lunch we travel through the ‘campo’ until we reach the desolate beaches on the Pacific Coast of the island, the only place in the world where Humboldt and Magallanic penguins live together. In the late afternoon we make our way back to Puerto Varas after stopping at a family farmhouse in Ancud for a traditional curanto, a local pitbake and uniquely authentic Chilote experience.
Day 5 Puerto Natales
Day 5 Puerto Natales
Puerto Varas - Puerto Natales. We return to Puerto Montt for a flight to the port city of Punta Arenas, Chile’s most southerly town. The city is rich in history and culture and was once an important British-influenced trading port before the Panama Canal turned it to a backwater. From here we continue by bus to Puerto Natales, the gateway to the famous Torres del Paine National Park and home to pelicans, black-necked swans and cormorants. We have the rest of the evening to walk around the town at our own leisure.
Days 6-7 Torres del Paine National Park
Days 6-7 Torres del Paine National Park
For two full days, the group will explore Torres del Paine National Park, traveling by private vehicle and on foot. Departing early each morning and returning to the comfort of Puerto Natales by evening, the adventure includes stops at some of the park's most breath-taking viewpoints, such as Lago Nordenskjöld and Salto Grande. The landscape is truly awe-inspiring, featuring the granite peaks of the Cuernos, milky lakes dotted with icebergs, and condors soaring high against the persistent winds. The rest of the days will be spent hiking through the national park, following various trails that meander along glacial lakes and rivers, offering close-up views of jagged rock formations and towering spires that reach 3,000 meters into the turbulent sky.
The park offers a range of hiking trails, varying greatly in difficulty and length, with some routes not suitable for all participants. The most renowned hike leads to the 'Base of the Towers,' but it is also the most challenging, taking at least eight hours to complete. However, there are options for everyone, so it is recommended to consult your tour leader for advice on the best-suited hikes or alternatives like horse riding.
It's essential to bring water and windproof clothing, along with appropriate footwear, as the weather in the park can be highly unpredictable.
Day 8 Drive to El Calafate
Day 8 Drive to El Calafate
Puerto Natales - El Calafate (Argentina). Today we travel by coach into Argentina, across the Patagonian steppe. Keep an eye out for the spectacular views of Lago Argentino, the largest lake in the country and for guanacos, rheas and flamingos. This afternoon we reach the town of El Calafate, which is situated on the shores of the lake. The rest of the afternoon is free to explore the town and there should be time to visit the Glaciarium Museum to get an insight into all things glacial or opt to sit back and relax in the ice bar on the premises.
Day 9 Perito Moreno Glacier
Day 9 Perito Moreno Glacier
Today we visit the world famous Perito Moreno Glacier. Our morning begins with a drive through Los Glaciers National Park, along the shores of Lake Argentino until we reach Patagonia’s most famous attraction. We then have some time to walk across the wooden walk ways which lead to perfect sightseeing spots to see the front edge of the spectacular Perito Moreno Glacier which is 5kms wide and towers 60 meters above the water surface.
Days 10-11 Buenos Aires
Days 10-11 Buenos Aires
El Calafate - Buenos Aires. On day 10 we fly to the beautiful city of Buenos Aires, known as the "Paris of South America" due to its lovely green parks, plazas and wide boulevards. After checking into our hotel, we have the rest of the afternoon at leisure to do with as we wish.
The following morning we explore the lanes and boulevards on a guided city tour, taking in the quirky neighbourhoods of the city, where European and Latin American influences have blended to create a city like no other. Whether you're a culture lover, bargain hunter or night owl, Argentina's capital city has plenty to keep you entertained. Buenos Aires is the birthplace of tango and during our stay there will be an optional evening visit to one of the many nightly Tango shows.
Day 12 Buenos Aires
Day 12 Buenos Aires
Saturday. Our tour comes to an end today. Transfer to the airport for your onward flight or we can book post tour accommodation if you'd like to extend your stay.
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Prices & Dates
Hotels
Set in the neighborhood of Providencia, this excellent hotel is in an unbeatable location to enjoy all that Santiago has to offer. Guest rooms are fully equipped with modern amenities with the benefit of free Wi-Fi. The hotel also features an outdoor seasonal pool which makes for a great way to relax after a day of exploring this magnificent city.
Discover supreme comfort and exclusivity at Hotel Puelche, a boutique and colonial style hotel - perfect for unwinding and connecting with nature. Guest rooms are spacious and traditional in style, some with partial views over Lake Llanquihue and the city of Puerto Varas. Well known for its burger bar featuring many culinary delights in addition to a range of beers, wines and spirits. Located in Puerto Varas' city centre, Llanquihue Lake is within walking distance. This property is 5 minutes walk from the beach and 30 km from the El Tepual Airport in Puerto Montt.
The Vendaval hotel’s design revolves around an antique house of brick typical of Patagonian architecture and is conveniently located in the principal gastronomic neighbourhood in downtown Puerto Natales, a few blocks away from the waterfront and the main square. Guest rooms are contemporary in style, offering soft, comfortable beds with quality mattresses and and are ideal after a day outdoors. Guests will find a cosy bar and terrace protected from the wind on the 4th floor. A great spot to sit back and relax after an adventurous day exploring the Patagonian wilderness.
Family-run Hotel Kapenke offers its guests a comfortable and friendly stay in El Calafate. Set just two blocks from Libertador Avenue, the town’s main street, the hotel is well-located close to shops and restaurants. Its guestrooms are simple yet functional, featuring private bathrooms and a flatscreen TV, with many offering views out to the hotel garden. Open for lunch and dinner, the onsite La Carmela Restaurant has a wide-ranging menu to suit all appetites, with a selection of fine wines for you to enjoy alongside.
Hostería Cauquenes de Nimez is a charming boutique inn located in El Calafate, Argentina, near the breath-taking shores of Lago Argentino. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, this charming establishment offers a warm, rustic ambiance, with rooms that provide modern comforts such as free Wi-Fi, heating, and cosy furnishings. Relax in the garden with a cocktail from the on-site bar. Enjoy the culinary delights served from the restaurant, with delicious homemade local dishes inspired by the flavours of Patagonia. Spend time browsing the library or unwind with a massage in the spa. Hostería Cauquenes de Nimez is an ideal haven for those looking to explore the wonders of southern Argentina while enjoying a relaxing and homely atmosphere.
Boasting an excellent location in the traditional San Telmo District, Kenton Palace is just footsteps from Buenos Aires’ Main Square. Guestrooms are well-equipped with modern amenities and feature warm-coloured bedspreads and parquet floors, giving them a cosy feel. Guests can enjoy a daily breakfast buffet and selection of international dishes including pizza specialties in the on-site restaurant. The hotel also features a wine cellar, a fitness centre and spa. Offering a sauna, pool and massage treatments, the spa is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day of travelling.
Tour Reviews
The tour was great and our guide was very accommodating and since we were a small group was easy to change plans/modify based on group interests. This worked out well as we got to see and do things that wasn't necessarily on the itinerary.
He was attentive to all our needs, even if varied and tried to accommodate everyone. He was friendly and even gave me advice for the time I was to be on my own in Argentina. He was part of the reason the tour was so enjoyable - everything went smoothly and was perfectly organised. Well done!
Extras and add-ons
Buenos Aires Airport Transfer (per car
Only book airport transfers in conjunction with pre or post tour accommodation. Airport transfers are included on the first and last day of the tour.
Santiago Airport Transfer (per car
Only book airport transfers in conjunction with pre or post tour accommodation. Airport transfers are included on the first and last day of the tour.
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