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Patagonia Tours & Hiking Adventures

Patagonia Trips

Central & South America

Patagonia Hiking Adventure

4.84

  • Duration 8 - 14 days
  • Activity Level Level 3 
    • Activity Level 3

      Step It Up

      I love an active vacation. Engaging in a challenging activity with a difficult goal, such as reaching a summit, is exactly what I need to unwind in the evenings.

    Read more about the Active Range

Behold jaw-dropping scenery in Chile and Argentina as you hike, bike, and cruise through Patagonia. Find out why everyone raves about the W Trek and take your own enviable photos of Monte Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre on this 14-day adventure.

Trip Start: Punta Arenas Trip End: El Calafate

Central & South America

Northern Patagonia Adventure

4.70

  • Duration 14 days
  • Activity Level Level 3 
    • Activity Level 3

      Step It Up

      I love an active vacation. Engaging in a challenging activity with a difficult goal, such as reaching a summit, is exactly what I need to unwind in the evenings.

    Read more about the Active Range

You'll fall in love with the relaxed Patagonian culture and picture-perfect landscapes of Chile and Argentina. Hike a handful of national parks, kayak across fjords, stay in comfortable accommodations, and enjoy delicious local cuisine.

Trip Start: Bariloche Trip End: Bariloche
Patagonia Adventure and Hiking Tours

These are Patagonia Tours you’ve been dreaming about - two awe-inspiring adventures worthy of the top spot on your bucket list.

Nestled between southern Chile and Argentina, Patagonia is a truly legendary destination for adventure travellers. Torres Del Paine National Park, Perito Moreno Glacier, and Mount Fitz Roy are world-renowned for their breathtaking beauty and exhilarating treks. From towering mountain peaks to gushing waterfalls to stunning glaciers and fjords, our Patagonia tours offer an unparalleled hiking and kayaking adventures of this most unique region of the world.

Hear from our Happy Guests
4.85/5 Rating | 6,500+ Reviews

What our guests are saying about our Patagonia Tours

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Patagonia Hiking Adventure - February 2024

Patagonia

"Our trip with Active Adventures was outstanding. Our guide was amazing and the views were stunning

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"Our trip with Active Adventures was outstanding. Our guide was amazing and the views were… read more

"Our trip with Active Adventures was outstanding. Our guide was amazing and the views were stunning read less

5 Stars (370 reviews)

R ROBERT | February 2024

Patagonia Hiking Adventure - February 2024

A precious memory

"From the first moment, we felt in good hands. We were fortunate with other group members being friendly as well. We had agonised over challenging vs comfort and we’re so glad we chose challenging for the immersion. Yes we had to share but our group was with us. Bonus. It was bonding

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"From the first moment, we felt in good hands. We were fortunate with other group… read more

"From the first moment, we felt in good hands. We were fortunate with other group members being friendly as well. We had agonised over challenging vs comfort and we’re so glad we chose challenging for the immersion. Yes we had to share but our group was with us. Bonus. It was bonding read less

5 Stars (370 reviews)

D David | February 2024

Patagonia Hiking Adventure - February 2024

Spectacular Patagonia

"Incredible experience visiting the wonderful National parks of Patagonia in both Chile and Argentina. Spectacular scenery, great leaders and a lovely group of people. Perfect

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"Incredible experience visiting the wonderful National parks of Patagonia in both Chile and Argentina. Spectacular… read more

"Incredible experience visiting the wonderful National parks of Patagonia in both Chile and Argentina. Spectacular scenery, great leaders and a lovely group of people. Perfect read less

5 Stars (370 reviews)

J Janet | February 2024

Patagonia Hiking Adventure - February 2024

Excellent logistics handling

"For those considering if booking with Active is worth it... Well, in short, yes. They absolutely handle the logistics during the trip and handle them well. The booked transfer services, lodging, and guides were excellent and worth the cost. My particular trip was to Patagonia. Doing privately would / could have been challenging and potentially frustrating. There are a lot of complexities in Patagonia and the Active team absolutely handled that very well.

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"For those considering if booking with Active is worth it... Well, in short, yes. … read more

"For those considering if booking with Active is worth it... Well, in short, yes. They absolutely handle the logistics during the trip and handle them well. The booked transfer services, lodging, and guides were excellent and worth the cost. My particular trip was to Patagonia. Doing privately would / could have been challenging and potentially frustrating. There are a lot of complexities in Patagonia and the Active team absolutely handled that very well. read less

5 Stars (370 reviews)

B Bart | February 2024

Northern Patagonia Adventure - January 2024

What an ADVENTURE!!!

"Recently home from this fantastic adventure, my 3rd with Active. Northern Patagonia is just spectacular in scenery and activity. Wonderful hikes, two kayak days, lots of time spent traveling multi-modal transportation seeing much variety in landscapes. Could not have asked for any better than our wonderful guide, Mayra!!
Lodgings were good and interesting, food always great and plentiful, and to be sure we had good wine in both Argentina and Chile. Fun fun group, lots of laughter!

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"Recently home from this fantastic adventure, my 3rd with Active. Northern Patagonia is just… read more

"Recently home from this fantastic adventure, my 3rd with Active. Northern Patagonia is just spectacular in scenery and activity. Wonderful hikes, two kayak days, lots of time spent traveling multi-modal transportation seeing much variety in landscapes. Could not have asked for any better than our wonderful guide, Mayra!!
Lodgings were good and interesting, food always great and plentiful, and to be sure we had good wine in both Argentina and Chile. Fun fun group, lots of laughter! read less

5 Stars (37 reviews)

S Shearon | January 2024

Patagonia Hiking Adventure - January 2024

South Patagonia

"Amazing adventure lead by an amazing team to the most beautiful scenery I have ever seen. Thank you!

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"Amazing adventure lead by an amazing team to the most beautiful scenery I have ever… read more

"Amazing adventure lead by an amazing team to the most beautiful scenery I have ever seen. Thank you! read less

5 Stars (370 reviews)

F Francoise Guillo, | January 2024

Northern Patagonia Adventure - January 2024

Fabulous Northern Patagonia Trip

"We thoroughly enjoyed our Northern Patagonia trip. Endless beauty, perfect mix of hiking and kayaking, unique accommodations, fascinating flora and fauna, lovely lakes, plus yummy wine to sip at the end of the day! Everything lived up to the Active Adventure experience we have always enjoyed. Terrific trip...Highly recommend.

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"We thoroughly enjoyed our Northern Patagonia trip. Endless beauty, perfect mix of hiking and kayaking,… read more

"We thoroughly enjoyed our Northern Patagonia trip. Endless beauty, perfect mix of hiking and kayaking, unique accommodations, fascinating flora and fauna, lovely lakes, plus yummy wine to sip at the end of the day! Everything lived up to the Active Adventure experience we have always enjoyed. Terrific trip...Highly recommend. read less

5 Stars (37 reviews)

L Lori | January 2024

Patagonia Hiking Adventure - January 2024

Patagonia W-trek

"Fantastic trip that is one for the books. It was filled with exciting worthwhile activities such as biking to the caves, sea kayaking in Lake Grey, glacier hiking (extra cost not included in package) and of course hiking. Trekking was challenging at times but the summits with the views were well worth it. This was my second trekking trip with Active Adventures and once again the trip leader (Zac) and guides (Andrea, Camilla and Lucy) were top-notch. Excellent interpersonal skills (where does Active Adventures find these people?!!!) and knowledge of the local flora and fauna and areas. They quickly brought a diverse group of people together into a cohesive unit. A lot of laughs and mutual support.

Food was very good with a mix of nice restaurants and refugio dinners. Accommodations in the hotels and refugioes were as billed - clean and comfortable..

Shout out to Big Foot outfitters at Lake Grey. Their staff led the sea kayaking and glacier hiking. Friendly, professional guides with updated equipment. I'm so glad I splurged on the extra cost for the glacier hiking. It was an experience of a lifetime and worth every penny.

read more

"Fantastic trip that is one for the books. It was filled with exciting worthwhile… read more

"Fantastic trip that is one for the books. It was filled with exciting worthwhile activities such as biking to the caves, sea kayaking in Lake Grey, glacier hiking (extra cost not included in package) and of course hiking. Trekking was challenging at times but the summits with the views were well worth it. This was my second trekking trip with Active Adventures and once again the trip leader (Zac) and guides (Andrea, Camilla and Lucy) were top-notch. Excellent interpersonal skills (where does Active Adventures find these people?!!!) and knowledge of the local flora and fauna and areas. They quickly brought a diverse group of people together into a cohesive unit. A lot of laughs and mutual support.

Food was very good with a mix of nice restaurants and refugio dinners. Accommodations in the hotels and refugioes were as billed - clean and comfortable..

Shout out to Big Foot outfitters at Lake Grey. Their staff led the sea kayaking and glacier hiking. Friendly, professional guides with updated equipment. I'm so glad I splurged on the extra cost for the glacier hiking. It was an experience of a lifetime and worth every penny. read less

5 Stars (370 reviews)

K Kevin | January 2024

Patagonia Hiking Adventure - January 2024

Wonderful tour of Patagonia

"The tour was well designed and the tour leader and guides were wonderful! The variety of activities was very good, with a focus on hiking. We got the active trip we were hoping for! We also got exposure to the local food and culture. Overall, we got a wonderful adventure in beautiful Patagonia!

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"The tour was well designed and the tour leader and guides were wonderful! The variety… read more

"The tour was well designed and the tour leader and guides were wonderful! The variety of activities was very good, with a focus on hiking. We got the active trip we were hoping for! We also got exposure to the local food and culture. Overall, we got a wonderful adventure in beautiful Patagonia! read less

4 Stars (370 reviews)

J Joseph | January 2024

Patagonia Hiking Adventure - January 2024

Great Patagonia trip!

"We just returned from a a 14 day trip to southern Patagonia. Once we arrived we were well looked after and the guides, scenery, food and accommodation were top notch. Our guide Gustavo Martinez, in particular, was excellent.

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"We just returned from a a 14 day trip to southern Patagonia. Once we arrived… read more

"We just returned from a a 14 day trip to southern Patagonia. Once we arrived we were well looked after and the guides, scenery, food and accommodation were top notch. Our guide Gustavo Martinez, in particular, was excellent. read less

5 Stars (370 reviews)

D David | January 2024

Patagonia Hiking Adventure - January 2024

Amazing bucket-list adventure

"The W-Trek was awesome -Los Torres, Los Cuernos, and the French Valle were all particularly spectacular and IMHO there is no substitute for seeing them in person. The day hikes to Lagunas de los Tres, Lomo del Pliegue Tumbado likewise were beyond description; and we were extremely fortunate that we reached the viewpoints as the weather cleared and could see them in bright sun light! Our tour guides were just awesome hosts in introducing us to this amazing land; they really brought everything to life while taking care of the needs of the group. And it was fun to experience the area with our fellow tour group members. The trip was challenging as described- much of the trails are rougher than those normally those encountered in the western US – they go straight up rather than constructed with switchbacks; and were very rocky- having trekking poles was critical for going up and down these. The wind was persistent and challenging at times; trekking poles helped with balance during exposed stretches such as Windy Pass on the Las Torres hike. Expect to have some rain; we had at least a little rain each day, but…

read more

"The W-Trek was awesome -Los Torres, Los Cuernos, and the French Valle were all particularly… read more

"The W-Trek was awesome -Los Torres, Los Cuernos, and the French Valle were all particularly spectacular and IMHO there is no substitute for seeing them in person. The day hikes to Lagunas de los Tres, Lomo del Pliegue Tumbado likewise were beyond description; and we were extremely fortunate that we reached the viewpoints as the weather cleared and could see them in bright sun light! Our tour guides were just awesome hosts in introducing us to this amazing land; they really brought everything to life while taking care of the needs of the group. And it was fun to experience the area with our fellow tour group members. The trip was challenging as described- much of the trails are rougher than those normally those encountered in the western US – they go straight up rather than constructed with switchbacks; and were very rocky- having trekking poles was critical for going up and down these. The wind was persistent and challenging at times; trekking poles helped with balance during exposed stretches such as Windy Pass on the Las Torres hike. Expect to have some rain; we had at least a little rain each day, but only two days where we it was windy and wet for a few hours. The refugios are what you expect – very basic, somewhat cramped, but generally the rooms are clean and bathroom facilities are good, normally cleaned twice a day. We visited during high season and the refugios were pretty crowded, especially Refugio Las Torres and Vertice Paine Grande. They added some of their own interest to the adventure, and it was interesting talking with other visitors. Everything added to a great and memorable experience. read less

4 Stars (370 reviews)

M Michael | January 2024

Northern Patagonia Adventure - January 2024

Pristine land of lakes and volcanoes

"I wanted trees, high mountain lakes, undulating trails, waterfalls, kayaking and I got it all! I forgot to mention good food and wine. In January, the days are long and the stars and moon were beautiful. This trip needs to be promoted more with better pictures! I think some people are afraid of Patagonia because all they hear about is the W trek. Our guide, Mayra, was amazing and adapted to our every need.

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"I wanted trees, high mountain lakes, undulating trails, waterfalls, kayaking and I got it all!… read more

"I wanted trees, high mountain lakes, undulating trails, waterfalls, kayaking and I got it all! I forgot to mention good food and wine. In January, the days are long and the stars and moon were beautiful. This trip needs to be promoted more with better pictures! I think some people are afraid of Patagonia because all they hear about is the W trek. Our guide, Mayra, was amazing and adapted to our every need. read less

5 Stars (37 reviews)

A Ann | January 2024

Northern Patagonia Adventure - January 2024

Another adventure

"Another AA trip. Another great adventure. After already having been to southern patagonia, I wanted to experience northern patagonia and see the difference between the two. Both are beautiful in their own way with the south having more towering big peaks and the north having so much water and volcanoes. As is always expected with AA, the trip leaders are awesome and fun to spend time with. I would highly recommend either adventure.

read more

"Another AA trip. Another great adventure. After already having been to southern patagonia, I wanted… read more

"Another AA trip. Another great adventure. After already having been to southern patagonia, I wanted to experience northern patagonia and see the difference between the two. Both are beautiful in their own way with the south having more towering big peaks and the north having so much water and volcanoes. As is always expected with AA, the trip leaders are awesome and fun to spend time with. I would highly recommend either adventure. read less

5 Stars (37 reviews)

J Joseph | January 2024

Northern Patagonia Adventure - January 2024

north patagonia

"Beautiful countries . Our guide Mayra was an outstanding leader,
informational wiz of the environment we traveled to and had complete control of our itinerary. All guides and drivers were very professional and knowledgeable.

read more

"Beautiful countries . Our guide Mayra was an outstanding leader,
informational wiz of the environment we… read more

"Beautiful countries . Our guide Mayra was an outstanding leader,
informational wiz of the environment we traveled to and had complete control of our itinerary. All guides and drivers were very professional and knowledgeable. read less

5 Stars (37 reviews)

g gary | January 2024

Patagonia Hiking Adventure - January 2024

Amazing trip to Patagonia

"Really liked how the focus was on hiking, but we also had opportunities to do other activities too. Views were amazing whether while biking, hiking, kayaking, walking on a glacier, in a boat, or even from our refugio dorm room. Dinners were exceptional - thank goodness we got in a lot of exercise! Guides were fantastic: knowledgeable, friendly, helpful, and organized.

read more

"Really liked how the focus was on hiking, but we also had opportunities to do… read more

"Really liked how the focus was on hiking, but we also had opportunities to do other activities too. Views were amazing whether while biking, hiking, kayaking, walking on a glacier, in a boat, or even from our refugio dorm room. Dinners were exceptional - thank goodness we got in a lot of exercise! Guides were fantastic: knowledgeable, friendly, helpful, and organized. read less

5 Stars (370 reviews)

C Carrie | January 2024

Patagonia Hiking Adventure - January 2024

Excellent trip!

"The guides were very good, both the Active Adventures coordinator and the local Chilean and Argentine guides. The region is challenging to visit, so having them was essential! The scenery is quite spectacular, and there's a reason why so many hikers, climbers and backpackers add the region to their bucket list. Active is still doing some modifications to this itinerary and if the kinks get worked out, it'll be an even better trip.

read more

"The guides were very good, both the Active Adventures coordinator and the local Chilean and… read more

"The guides were very good, both the Active Adventures coordinator and the local Chilean and Argentine guides. The region is challenging to visit, so having them was essential! The scenery is quite spectacular, and there's a reason why so many hikers, climbers and backpackers add the region to their bucket list. Active is still doing some modifications to this itinerary and if the kinks get worked out, it'll be an even better trip. read less

4 Stars (370 reviews)

T Theodore | January 2024

Where is Patagonia

Where is Patagonia?

Patagonia is a distinct geographical region at the base of South America spanning the lower sections of Argentina and Chile. On the Chilean side, it starts in the Araucanía region extending down to the extreme southern tip of the country. On the Argentine side, it begins in the province of Rio Negro and carries on all the way to Tierra Del Fuego.

The vast Patagonia region covers about 777,000 square kilometres (300,000 square miles) of Argentina, which is about a third the country, and another 340,000 square kilometres (131,275 square miles) or nearly half, of Chile.

Patagonia Adventure Hiking Tours

Patagonia Hiking - 6 Great Hikes

1. W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park

Torres del Paine's most famous hiking route is a 74 km (46 miles) hike done over 4 or 5 days. The main highlights include hiking to the base of the Towers, the French Valley and its hanging glacier, and Lago Grey.

2. Torres del Paine Circuit, or O Circuit

This 136 km (85 miles) hike is a longer, tougher version of the W Trek that mixes refugios and campsites that is normally completed in 7 to 9 days.

3. Perito Moreno Glacier

Witness the calving of this famous glacier via the viewing platforms, hop on a cruise or kayak tour, or grab crampons and ice axe for an unforgettable ice hiking experience.

4. Laguna De Los Tres & & Mount Fitz Roy

This 25-km (15-miles) return hike will bring you to the legendary lagoon and De los Tres glacier, for close views of the granite walls of Mount Fitz Roy.


5. Nahuel Huapi National Park

The oldest National Park in Argentina, Nahuel Huapi National Park is an outdoor enthusiast's dream just outside of Bariloche.

6. Lago del Desierto

Situated in Los Glaciares National Park, this 3-hour return hike leads to expanded views on the famous granite peak of Cerro FitzRoy.

Patagonia Hiking Adventure

When is the Best Time to Visit Patagonia?

Late December to early March marks the summer, and it's also the best time to visit Patagonia. In the southern region, where our Patagonia Hiking Adventure is focused, daytime temperatures range from 70-80°F (21-27°C) in the sun. Nighttime temperatures in Punta Arenas, the capital of Chile’s southernmost region, range in the 40s Fahrenheit (4-10°C) and can dip into the 30s on the trail (-1-4°C). The wind chill in the southern Patagonia region can really keep the temperature down, and due to the region’s proximity to two big oceans, and the Southern Patagonian Icecap, you’ll likely see lots of different weather, at any time of year!

In the northern part of Patagonia, where we explore on our Northern Patagonia trip, temperatures tend to be a little warmer, but being prepared for lots of different types of weather is still a great idea.

Patagonia hiking

Southern Patagonia: home of the Torres Del Paine National Park

At the heart of the southern area of this vast wilderness area is the Torres Del Paine National Park. The 'Towers of Blue', sheer granite peaks rising a kilometre (3,000 ft) into the sky, offer a neck-bending panorama on the world-renowned W-Trek. Perito Moreno and Grey Glaciers are a sight to behold, and there's no better way to soak it all in than with your boots on the ground, a paddle in your hands, or a bike under you.

Patagonia Adventure Hiking Tours

Northern Patagonia: untamed landscapes and towering mountains, without the crowds

Northern Patagonia is a vastly different landscape. It is dotted with pristine lakes, dramatic volcanoes, swathes of untouched forest and massive mountains. Add to that more natural hot pools than you could soak in in a lifetime, and you're really onto something. Northern Patagonia is nature as it was intended, without the crowds, and laced with the relaxed Patagonia culture. For the ultimate Patagonia experience combine our 'Condor' in the South, with the 'Puma' in the North. Whether you choose the northern or southern region or both, a Patagonia hiking and adventure tour is an experience of a lifetime.
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Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full

By paying in full we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. This offer is only valid for reservations where the trip is no sooner than 180 days from the departure date at time of booking.

We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance – you can find details here.

T&Cs Apply. Read more here.

BOOKING CONDITIONS

FAQs about visiting Patagonia

Is Patagonia a safe place to travel?

While Chile & Argentina are both pretty safe places, we recommend taking the same precautions you would anywhere else - just to be on the safe side! Pickpockets occasionally operate in areas where visitors are found so we suggest you leave any valuables you don’t need with you in the hotel safe (e.g. passports and credit cards). A copy of your passport and any valuables you do need with you should be kept in a passport wallet under your clothes and a small amount of money in your pocket/purse. It’s also a good idea to take a taxi after dark rather than walk.

What are the top things to do in Patagonia?

In the extreme south, the scenery of southern Patagonia doesn't get more dramatic than this - with spectacular vertical granite peaks, immense rivers of ice, wind-swept plains and native beech forest. The Andes of southern Patagonia are covered by the most extensive area of glaciers outside the world's polar regions. The main attractions of this region include the beautiful scenery of the Laguna de los Cisnes and Cueva del Milodón Natural Monuments and the Torres del Paine and Los Glaciares National Parks, home of the Perito Moreno Glacier and world-famous W-Trek Hike.

The Araucanía and Lakes District is the northernmost region of Patagonia, and is characterised by fertile green farmlands, snow-crowned volcanoes, forest and of course, dozens of beautiful deep blue lakes. Small and major volcanic eruptions are quite common in this area, with two major eruptions in 2008 - Llaima volcano in January and Chaiten volcano in May.

What is the W-Trek terrain like?

The four-day W-trek through Torres del Paine National Park will definitely be one of the most memorable aspects of your trip! This amazing trek will take you past sheer granite peaks, snow-clad mountains, glacial lakes and through thick Magellanic forest. While it might be a bit of a challenge, the rewards are well and truly worth it! The trek is close to sea level, so you won’t be dealing with any altitude factors.

The trails are very well maintained so finding your way is never a problem. If you’ve not done a multi-day trek before and would like some expert advice on how to prepare for one, get in touch!

Is hiking in Patagonia difficult?

As long as you enjoy hiking, you'll love these trails - you'll be hiking about eight miles a day, but there's no rush, you can take it at your own pace. In fact, the slower the better I say, as that way you get plenty of time not only to enjoy your surroundings, but let your body acclimatise to the altitude as well.

We recommend doing plenty of practice before you arrive, as the fitter you are, the more you’ll enjoy your experience. We suggest you try and get out 3-4 times a week and go out walking. If you have access to some walking trails that go over hills then go and explore, and if you live in a city and don't - then simply walking round the park and up and down stairs (such as in a high-rise instead of using the elevator) works wonders too.

That said our trips are designed for regular active people, so you don’t need to be a triathlete or anything - though if you are you won’t be bored!

Do I need a visa to visit Patagonia?

It is your responsibility stay up to date on the latest visa and entry requirements for your destination. Please use the CIBT entry tracker on our website as a guideline or visit the relevant immigration webpage for more information regarding this.

Do I need vaccinations to visit Patagonia?

For the most up-to-date recommendations please check with your doctor or travel clinic, and always go with their recommendations, as these can often change. We strongly recommend that you see a doctor, preferably one with experience in travel medicine, at least 8 weeks before your trip starts to discuss appropriate vaccinations.

Where do you fly into Patagonia?

The most direct international routes to and from Punta Arenas, Bariloche and El Calafate, are via national capitals Santiago and Buenos Aires. We recommend booking your domestic connections within Argentina and Chile as part of your international fare. It’s more economical that way, and can make life a bit easier if your international flight is delayed. There are a couple of airlines available for getting between Santiago & Punta Arenas, or El Calafate and Bariloche & Buenos Aires. Latam Chile (www.latam.com) departs several times a day and Sky Airline (www.skyairlinechile.com) offer a couple of flights a day.

Can you help me find international flights to Patagonia?

Our preferred Travel Partner Fuzion Travel can assist with you with flights and other travel arrangements. Let them know your preferred travel plans, including any stopovers or extra nights’ accommodation, and they’ll put everything in place for you. They offer a total travel solution and five star service that you’ll want to tell your friends about!

What are the reciprocity fees in Chile?

The Chilean Government has a reciprocal agreement with Australia so for Australian passport holders, you’ll need to pay US$117 on arrival. This must be paid in cash on arrival into Santiago airport, and the one-time fee is good for the
life of a travelers’ passport. You may pay this fee at the airport counter (to the left of Customs) via credit card or US$ cash. There is no fee charged if you’re arriving into Chile by any other means, and holders of other passports aren’t charged anything, in accordance with their agreements. You’re issued with your immigration arrivals receipt on arrival. It’s really important to keep this safe as you’ll need it when you depart Chile. Failure to submit this card upon departure may result in delays until a replacement is obtained.

What's included on your Patagonia trips?

Accommodation

Down in Patagonia you'll lay your head each night in hotels, lodges and the famous 'refugios' in the National Parks. While these may sound basic they have incredible facilities (including electricity), the views are out of this world, they have restaurants and you'll meet an incredible array of people that have travelled from far and wide to visit the bottom of the world.

Transport

Your transport will be a mixture of bus, plane, boat, bike and your very own two feet on our trips in South America. All your transport is included from the start of your trip and we'll drop you at the airport at the end. The details are all listed in the trip specific itineraries.

Meals

All your meals are included as described in the itinerary except on your free days. We have found that people enjoy checking out what is on offer by themselves sometimes, so you can go and see what's out there! On every other day and especially after any long hikes, we've chosen places to eat that can cater for our hearty appetites, work well with our small groups (they know we are coming) and provide us with an authentic destination specific culinary experience. There are always options for you, so you can either be brave or choose something more familiar. You can be assured that on all our trips we will make sure you are very well fed.

Trip leaders

Our trips are all led by an experienced Trip Leader. Our Trip Leaders are very proud to work with Active Adventures and often lead our trips for many years, for which we are very lucky and very grateful as it means we're able to consistently offer a fantastic level of service. They work closely with our local specialist guides to provide you with a seamless, fun, exciting and memorable trip. They will happily share with you as much or as little as you want to know about the history, culture, social aspects and lifestyle of the country you are visiting. 

Do I need hiking boots or are hiking sneakers okay?

You will need proper hiking boots - trail shoes are not good enough. We'll be taking you to some awesome places where you'll be hiking over a variety of terrain, therefore your boots should have full ankle support and a stiff sole with a high profile tread. It's also important that whichever footwear you decide to bring that it's well broken-in and waterproofed before you come down. If you have good ankles that will be able to cope pretty well with varied terrain, then good hiking shoes should be fine, but if not then hiking boots will give you better support.

What kind of clothing should I be packing?

Once you've booked your trip, you'll have access to a gear list in your portal on exactly what to bring along. The gear list is carefully thought out to provide you with everything you need to be warm and happy, or cool and relaxed, whatever the weather! So it is best to bring everything we recommend along, if you don't bring everything you need, we can't guarantee your comfort.

Can I drink the water in Patagonia?

Tap water in Chile & Argentina is not safe to drink, or brush your teeth in, so you’ll need to use filtered water instead, which we’ll provide, and treat ice and salads with caution. You can also use hand sanitiser, iodine or water purification tablets if you prefer. Active Adventures is promoting ‘Travellers Against Plastic’ pledge, so to reduce single use plastic we encourage you to bring a durable water bottle to refill instead of purchasing bottled water.

What is the food like in Patagonia?

While Patagonian cuisine isn’t particularly spicy or adventurous, it makes up for any lack through the sheer abundance and variety of produce, seafood, wine and meats - especially beef.

Vegetarians should ask for un plato vegetarian (a vegetarian dish) or try saying ‘soy vegetariano/a’ (I’m a vegetarian) just to be on the safe side. Vegan choices may be limited but we’ll do our best to help find things you may like. Fruit is very limited due to our locations and not always available, and breakfast meals are usually quite basic.

Dinner meals are often very late in the evening too as per the local customs.

Vegan and Gluten-free Dietary supplements – If you’re gluten-free or vegan, please bring some of your own protein bars or protein shakes with you, to get enough protein during the 4-days and nights we spend hiking the W-trek. The only bars we have in South America are cereal and sugar-based, and offer very little protein. Being gluten-free, vegan or vegetarian is not common in South America, so sometimes the veggie option at the 4 Refugio’s could just be grilled vegetables and rice, and it’s hard to hike the next day just with a simple meal like that. 

What if I need a special diet?

We are accustomed to catering to the following special diets:

  • vegan (no meat or animal products)
  • vegetarian (no meat products)
  • fishatarian (vegetarian, and eat fish)
  • no red meat (eat chicken & fish)
  • gluten intolerant (no wheat, rye, barley or oats)
  • lactose intolerant (no dairy products)

You will get the opportunity to specify your particular requirements when you fill in our pre-trip questionnaire. If you have any other dietary requirements please let us know well in advance, via email or the online questionnaire.

What is the currency in Patagonia?

Chile’s currency is the Chilean peso (CLP) and Argentina’s currency is the Argentinean peso (ARS), however both countries use the dollar symbol ($) to show prices in their local currency.

How much spending money should I bring and where do I get local currencies?

Your trip fare includes all transportation, guiding, meals and activities (except any optional activities). Most people like to bring a little extra to cover a round of drinks at the pub, take home some souvenirs, book a tour and eat out on their free day, and tip our guides if they've had a great time. 

ATM’s are available in most towns in Patagonia, although the ones in smaller towns are less reliable – for example it’s hard to get money out of ATM’s in El Chalten and El Calafate, especially in peak season and most ATM’s have a limit of US$200 per withdrawal also. 

Visa and MasterCard are most widely used except in Llancahue (Northern Patagonia) where they’ll not take Visa, although AMEX may also be accepted

Will the altitude affect me in Patagonia?

Altitude isn’t really a factor in Patagonia as we only get up to around 1,100 metres (3,600 feet).

Do I need to speak Spanish?

Spanish is the main language of Chile & Argentina. English is spoken in some hotels, airports and tourist areas but not everywhere. A little would be helpful, especially on arrival and for ordering food in restaurants, but it's certainly not required. Our trip leaders are all fluent Spanish speakers so if you don't have time to learn a little Spanish before arrival you don't have to worry... they will take care of everything.

What time zone is Patagonia in?

Chile & Argentina are in the Chile/Argentina Standard Time. It is -3 hours behind of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

What type of plugs and voltage do you use in Patagonia?

Electricity is available in most places in Patagonia – even in the Refugio’s on the W-Trek. Chile & Argentina both operate on a 220V AC system, and Chile uses Type C while Argentina uses Type I.

Will I have access to internet/WiFi?

WiFi is available almost everywhere in cities and easy enough to find in most towns/villages so you can rely on having regular access during your trip. If you have data roaming switched on, then you'll be able to use the internet on your smartphone, but beware of the fees! WiFi is available at some of the accommodations that you'll be staying at, usually for a small cost so check this out at each location when you arrive, though it may be sporadic. There's no WiFi along the W-Trek Hike and cellphone coverage will be minimal.

What is the weather like in Patagonia?

Patagonia’s seasons mirror those of the Southern Hemisphere, so the best time to visit is in the summer between November and April. Late December to early March marks the Patagonian summer. Daytime temperature ranges from 70-80°F (21-26°C) in the sun. Night time temperatures in Punta Arenas range in the 40’s F (4-7°C) and on the trek can dip into the 30’s F (-1°C).
Please note tempestuous weather is normal for this region in any season. With Patagonia so near to the southern Patagonian ice cap and two big oceans, you’ll likely see rain, wind, a bit of snow, cold and hot weather

What books could I read to learn more about Patagonia?

  • In Patagonia by Bruce Chatwin - one of the most beloved travelogues of all time
  • Across Patagonia by Lady Florence Dixie - written by one of Torres del Paine's first tourists, an English society woman, who visited Chile between 1878 and 1879
  • Idle Days in Patagonia by W.H. Hudson - written by an Argentinian author of his yearlong adventure in Patagonia
  • Enduring Patagonia by Gregory Crouch - a more recent depiction of the authors seven challenging and rewarding expeditions to Patagonia
  • My Invented Country: A Memoir by Isabel Allende - written by one of Chile's modern literary stars, great for travelers wanting to know more about Chilean culture and homelife from a true local perspective
  • A Line Across The Sky - a great film from the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour following Tommy Caldwell and Alex Honnold and their attempt to complete the Fitz Roy traverse

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Patagonia Tips & Blogs

Our Local Patagonia Guides

Our Trips... from our Guests' Perspective

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