Wonders of Patagonia
Wonders of Patagonia
$7098
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Wonders of Patagonia" tour, a captivating journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Argentina and Chile. Begin in vibrant Buenos Aires, where you'll explore its grand boulevards and colorful neighborhoods. Venture to the world's southernmost city, Ushuaia, and delve into the natural splendor of Tierra del Fuego National Park. Discover the awe-inspiring glaciers of Los Glaciares National Park and the rugged beauty of Torres del Paine. Experience the rich Patagonian culture with local vaqueros and savor traditional cuisine. Enjoy scenic cruises to the Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers, and explore the serene beauty of Laguna Amarga. With expert guides, luxury accommodations, and immersive cultural experiences, this tour offers an unforgettable adventure into the heart of Patagonia's pristine wilderness. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Buenos Aires
Location: Buenos Aires
Accommodation: Hotel, Alvear Art
Accommodation Name: Intercontinental
Meals Included: Dinner
It's time to Tango your way through beautiful Buenos Aires - your launch pad to the other-worldly southern frontier of Patagonia. On arrival, your local host will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. Relax or explore the grand boulevards and colorful barrios of Argentina's vibrant capital on your own. This evening, join your Travel Director and fellow expeditioners for dinner.
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Day 2: Buenos Aires Sightseeing Connect with Locals
Location: Buenos Aires, Casa Rosada, La Boca, Teatro Colon, Recoleta Cemetery, Palermo Soho
Accommodation: Hotel, Alvear Art
Accommodation Name: Intercontinental
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Walk in the footsteps of the porteños on your exploration of the exquisite sights of the 'Paris of South America'. Wind your way through the city, past the grand pink Casa Rosada, and bold, bright La Boca. View the ornate Teatro Colon and pay homage to Eva (Evita) Peron in the final resting place of Buenos Aires' most noteworthy residents, Recoleta Cemetery. Embrace Argentinian culture at a Be My Guest experience this evening as you Connect With Locals, joining a local family in Palermo Soho who'll share their homemade family recipes, the secrets of kneading bread and the art of the passionate Tango.
Day 3: Admire Tierra del Fuego National Park and Continue to Ushuaia
Location: Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego National Park, Beagle Channel
Accommodation: Hotel, Los Acebos Ushuaia
Accommodation Name: Los Acebos Ushuaia Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
An expedition through the extraordinary landscapes of Patagonia begins today as you fly to the world's southernmost city, Ushuaia. On arrival, explore the dramatic landscapes of Tierra del Fuego National Park, Argentinian’s southern-most national park on the border of Chile. Join a Local Specialist to delve deep into its natural splendor. Admire its beautiful waterfalls, forests and snow-capped mountains in which the wildlife of this area find sanctuary. Keep a keen eye out for red foxes, condors, eagles and beavers. Come face to face with the biological richness of Tierra del Fuego Island and its incredible scenic beauty, enjoying views over the Beagle Channel at Ensenada Bay, the glacial waters of Roca Lake and the deep Bay of Lapataia Bay. This evening, dinner is served at your hotel on the Beagle Channel, so named for the famous HMS Beagle on which Charles Darwin once sailed the southern seas and saw glaciers for the first time.
Day 4: Uncover Ushuaia Dive Into Culture
Location: Ushuaia, Museo Maritimo y Del Presidio, Beagle Channel
Accommodation: Hotel, Los Acebos Ushuaia
Accommodation Name: Los Acebos Ushuaia Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, join a Local Specialist and your fellow travelers for a tour of Ushuaia including a visit to the Museo Maritimo y Del Presidio, where you’ll explore the history of the Prison at the End of the World and learn about the famous prisoners who were incarcerated there. Later, delve into its history as a former penal colony and missionary base on your own, or consider joining an optional cruise excursion on the Beagle Channel focusing on the scenic archipelago, wildlife and history. Learn about the great shipwrecks of the region, as well as the dogged determination of the first European explorers, who in the 19th century navigated this inhospitable region which has since had a turbulent history. Consider taking a longer excursion that includes views of lazy colonies of sea lions and Magellanic penguins, which Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan first saw in the early 16th century.
Day 5: Off to El Calafate
Location: Ushuaia, El Calafate, Los Glaciares National Park, Perito Moreno Glacier
Accommodation: Kosten Aike
Accommodation Name: Posada Los Alamos
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Leave the 'end of the world' and fly to El Calafate on the shores of Lake Argentino, the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park with its spectacular Perito Moreno Glacier. You'll have a rare opportunity to explore the otherworldly landscape of massive glaciers, interconnected fjords and mountainside glacial lakes over the next few days, but not before perhaps tucking into the Calafate berry after which the town is named to secure your return to this mystical region.
Day 6: Los Glaciares National Park Excursion
Location: Los Glaciares National Park, Perito Moreno Glacier, El Calafate
Accommodation: Kosten Aike
Accommodation Name: Posada Los Alamos
Meals Included: Breakfast
The day is dedicated to a deep exploration of the striking UNESCO-listed Los Glaciares National Park. Touring with a Local Specialist, you'll come face-to-face with its arctic blue and white glaciers that are fed by the massive South Patagonian Ice Field. Discover the magnificent Perito Moreno Glacier, which towers above the icy waters of Lake Argentino. You could perhaps witness massive igloo icebergs plunging into the lake with thunderous force. Experience the rugged solitude of the windswept steppe and the quiet southern beach forests, before heading back to El Calafate for an evening spent at leisure. Consider indulging all your senses savoring the town’s famous Patagonian lamb paired with a delectable glass of Argentina’s Malbec, or pop into the glaciarium for a chilly encounter that will warm your polar heart.
Day 7: Adventure to Puerto Natales
Location: Puerto Natales, Pingo Salvaje, Milodon Cave, Rupestre Patagonia Park, Laguna Sofia
Accommodation: Hosteria Las Torres
Accommodation Name: NOI Indigo Patagonia
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, embark on an adventure to Puerto Natales, a charming gateway to the stunning landscapes of southern Chilean Patagonia. Your journey begins with a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at Pingo Salvaje, where you’ll learn about the ranch owners’ holistic grazing efforts. You'll also be led on a walk to an on-site waterfall, which the farm uses to produce hydraulic energy. Next, it’s off to to the fascinating Milodon Cave with your Local Guide. Here, German explorer Herman Eberhard discovered evidence of a giant prehistoric ground sloth, along with traces of human habitation dating back to 6000 BC, offering a unique window into ancient life. Next, explore Rupestre Patagonia Park, which showcases Patagonia’s natural and cultural riches. Just a stone’s throw from Milodon Cave, this family-owned park features native Patagonian forests and diverse sedimentary rock formations. Alongside a local specialist, marvel at stunning eaves and caverns sculpted by glaciers 18,000 years ago. Pause at the Laguna Sofia viewpoint for breathtaking vistas and condor sightings. Along the way, uncover ancient cave paintings, each inviting your personal interpretation. This enriching day deepens your connection to Patagonia’s unique heritage and beauty.
Day 8: Torres Del Paine National Park Sightseeing
Location: Torres del Paine National Park, Los Cuernos, Lago Pehoe, Salto Grande, Lago Gray, Laguna Amarga, Blue Lagoon
Accommodation: Hosteria Las Torres
Accommodation Name: NOI Indigo Patagonia
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Embark on a breathtaking journey to Torres del Paine National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This stunning region spans 113,000 hectares and is known for its cascading waterfalls, roaring creeks, shimmering lakes, and jagged mountain spires. Guided by a local specialist, you'll visit Los Cuernos, Lago Pehoe, Salto Grande, the Park Administration (Conaf), and the Lago Gray viewpoint to marvel at the Gray Glacier. Wildlife sightings may include guanacos, foxes, swans, and other fascinating fauna. Then, explore the serene beauty of the must-see Laguna Amarga region. In the afternoon, observe the Torres towers from the east and discover unique cyanobacteria with stromatolites at the Laguna Amarga caldera. End your day at the Blue Lagoon, known for its striking cerulean waters, encapsulating the untouched beauty of this wilderness.
Day 9: Admire the local culture of Puerto Natales Stays With Stories Dive Into Culture
Location: Puerto Natales, Cerro Castillo, Torres del Paine National Park
Accommodation: Remota Patagonia Lodge
Accommodation Name: NOI Indigo Patagonia
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Take a Dive into Culture Experience at Estancia Anahi del Valle, located in Cerro Castillo, about 37 miles (60 kilometers) from Puerto Natales. This family-owned ranch in the commune of Torres del Paine specializes in sheep and cattle raising, embodying the rich country traditions of the region. Immerse yourself in the daily ranch activities and witness the remarkable teamwork between sheep dogs and shepherds. Learn how sheep are herded and bathed, and see how dogs, guided by whistles and voice commands, expertly manage the flocks. In the afternoon, indulge in a traditional Patagonian lamb barbecue. Enjoy a Pisco Sour or Calafate Sour as a welcome drink, followed by a homemade dessert and a choice of beverages. Complement your meal with freshly baked bread and Pebre, a local sauce, for a truly authentic Patagonian experience.
Day 10: Puerto Natales, Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers Excursion
Location: Puerto Natales, Serrano Glacier, Seno Ultima Esperanza, Balmaceda Glacier
Accommodation: Remota Patagonia Lodge
Accommodation Name: NOI Indigo Patagonia
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today's exploration takes you by boat up the Rio Serrano, passing the Southern Icefield (Campo de Hielo Sur) toward the icy turquoise sheets of the Serrano Glacier. Take some time with a Local Specialist to explore the impressive glacier with a hike through unspoiled, cool rainforest landscapes to Seno Ultima Esperanza ('Fjord of the Last Hope') where you will see the rest of the Southern Patagonian Icefield. Continue through the fjord by boat with views of the Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers in the background. This evening, join your Travel Director and new friends for dinner and toast to an unforgettable expedition to the ends of the earth.
Day 11: Depart Santiago
Location: Punta Arenas, Santiago
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart this morning for the peninsula town of Punta Arenas to board your flight to Santiago International Airport, where your Patagonia adventure ends. Airport arrival will be at 8 p.m., please be aware when booking your onward flights.
What's Included
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Expert Travel Director and Driver
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver are included in the tour.
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Cherry-picked Hotels
Stay in cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted.
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Porterage and Gratuities
All porterage and restaurant gratuities are included.
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Hotel Tips and Taxes
All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are covered.
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Sightseeing and Extras
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras are part of the tour.
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Audio Headsets
Audio headsets are provided for flexible sightseeing.
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Luxury Transportation
Travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.
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Intra-Air Flights
A Trafalgar bonus includes all Intra-Air Flights: Buenos Aires - Ushuaia - El Calafate, Punta Arenas - Santiago.
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Optional Experiences and Free Time
Optional experiences and free time are available during the tour.
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Hotel Substitutions
On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.
What's Not Included
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs and additional activities not listed in the itinerary are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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International Flights
International flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees and any necessary travel documents are not included.
Dining Summary
- 5 Dinner (D)
- 10 Breakfast (B)
- 3 Lunch (L)
Dive Into Culture
- Ushuaia: Tour Ushuaia including a visit to the Museo Maritimo y Del Presidio, where you'll explore the history of the Prison at the End of the World and learn about the famous prisoners who were incarcerated there.
Mode of Transport
Travel in luxury air-conditioned coaches with Wi-Fi, and enjoy all intra-air flights including Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, El Calafate, and Punta Arenas to Santiago, ensuring a seamless journey through Patagonia.
Accommodation
Stay in cherry-picked hotels like the Intercontinental in Buenos Aires, Los Acebos Ushuaia Hotel, Posada Los Alamos, and NOI Indigo Patagonia, all tried and trusted for comfort and quality.
Dive into Culture
- Ushuaia: Tour Ushuaia including a visit to the Museo Maritimo y Del Presidio, where you'll explore the history of the Prison at the End of the World and learn about the famous prisoners who were incarcerated there.
Iconic Experience
- Buenos Aires: Embark on a Buenos Aires City Tour with a Local Specialist. Walk through the wide boulevards of this beautiful capital admiring the spirit of a city whose European and Latin American influences can be seen around every turn. See the pink palace, the seat of the Argentine national government and president's office whose balcony Juan and “Evita” Perón addressed the people in the 1940s and 1950s. Visit the cathedral and wander through the lively and colorful La Boca neighborhood lined with restaurants, street artists and local art around every corner.
- Tierra del Fuego National Park: Join a Local Specialist to delve deep into Tierra Del Fuego National park's natural splendor. Admire its beautiful waterfalls, forests and snow-capped mountains in which the wildlife of this area find sanctuary. Keep a keen eye out for red foxes, condors, eagles and beavers.
- Parque Nacional Los Glaciares: Join a Local Specialist for a deep exploration of the striking UNESCO-listed Los Glaciares National Park. Within Argentina’s largest and most famous national park, you'll come face-to-face with its arctic blue and white glaciers that are fed by the massive South Patagonian Ice Field, milky colored glacial lakes and towering snowcapped peaks. Be amazed at this landscape of 356 glaciers starting at 4,900 feet (1,500 m) above sea level that reach into icy blue lakes. Discover the magnificent Perito Moreno Glacier, which towers above the icy waters of Lake Argentino, accessible by a short hike.
- Puerto Natales: With your Local Specialist, visit Milodon Cave, a fascinating site where evidence of a giant prehistoric ground sloth, the Milodon, was discovered by German explorer Herman Eberhard. Shedding light on Patagonia's ancient past, the cave also holds evidence of prehistoric human habitation dating back to 6,000 BC, offering a glimpse into the lives of early inhabitants. Explore this intriguing site, marvel at the well-preserved remains, and imagine the prehistoric world that once existed here. Milodon Cave is a captivating destination for those interested in archaeology and the natural history of Patagonia.
- Puerto Natales: Rupestre Patagonia Park is a family-run business dedicated to educating visitors about the region's environmental issues, archaeology, history, culture, and biodiversity, With your Local Specialist, you can discover the enduring legacies of the indigenous cultures that once thrived in Patagonia, while gaining insight into the pressing environmental challenges the area faces. Explore diverse ecosystems, from verdant forests to rugged mountains, each teeming with unique wildlife. The park ensures a personalized and enriching experience, making Rupestre Patagonia a must-visit for those seeking to connect with Patagonia's profound natural beauty and cultural richness.
- Torres del Paine National Park: Enjoy an in-depth exploration of Torres Del Paine, venturing deep into the heart of the park with a Local Specialist. Embark on a short hike to see natural landmarks up close and view stunning landscapes from scenic outlooks especially chosen to showcase the surrounding beauty of the area.
- Torres del Paine National Park: Connect with the inspiring natural landscape in one of the world's last true wildernesses. Embark on this unforgettable journey with a Local Specialist, who will bring the landscape to life with their rich knowledge and passion for the region. The lagoon's name, meaning "Bitter Lake," hints at its high mineral content, giving the water an almost mystical quality. Your Local Specialist will guide you through the area's unique flora and fauna, offering insights into the natural history and ecological significance of this pristine environment. Witness beautiful fauna, such as flamingos wading in the shallow waters, or elusive Andean condor soaring above. The immersive experience at Laguna Amarga will leave you with lasting memories of Patagonia's raw and untouched beauty.
- Mirador Serrano Glacier: Travel by boat up the Rio Serrano, passing the Southern icefield (campo de Hielo sur) toward the icy turquoise sheets of the Serrano Glacier. With a Local Specialist, explore the impressive glacier with a hike through unspoiled, cool rainforest landscapes to Seno Ultima Esperanza (Fjord of the Last Hope) where you will see the rest of the Southern Patagonian Icefield. Mostly untouched by people, the unspoiled nature is home to colonies of cormorants, sea lions and condors.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique cultural experiences are included in the Wonders of Patagonia tour?
The tour includes a Be My Guest experience in Buenos Aires where you dine with a local family in Palermo Soho, learning about their homemade recipes and the art of Tango. In Puerto Natales, you will visit Estancia Anahi del Valle to experience traditional ranch activities and enjoy a Patagonian lamb barbecue. ...more ...less
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What wildlife might I see during the tour?
In Tierra del Fuego National Park, you may see red foxes, condors, eagles, and beavers. In Torres del Paine National Park, wildlife sightings could include guanacos, foxes, swans, and other fascinating fauna. Additionally, during the boat excursion to the Serrano Glacier, you might see colonies of cormorants, sea lions, and condors. ...more ...less
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What are some of the natural highlights of the tour?
The tour features visits to several national parks including Tierra del Fuego, Los Glaciares, and Torres del Paine. You will see the Perito Moreno Glacier, the Beagle Channel, and the stunning landscapes of Torres del Paine with its waterfalls, lakes, and mountain spires. The tour also includes a boat ride to the Serrano Glacier. ...more ...less
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What sustainable practices are highlighted on the tour?
In Puerto Natales, the tour includes a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at Pingo Salvaje ranch, where you will learn about the sustainable practices of the ranch owners, such as holistic grazing to maintain ecological balance and the use of hydraulic energy from an on-site waterfall. ...more ...less
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What kind of meals are provided during the tour?
The tour includes breakfast daily, up to half of your evening meals, and three lunches. Meals feature local cuisine, including a traditional Patagonian lamb barbecue at Estancia Anahi del Valle.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1947
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trafalgar charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Wonders of Patagonia
11 Days Starting in Buenos Aires, Argentina and ending in Santiago, Chile
Visiting: Buenos Aires, Casa Rosada, La Boca, Teatro Colon, Recoleta Cemetery, Palermo Soho, Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego National Park, Beagle Channel, Museo Maritimo y Del Presidio, El Calafate, Los Glaciares National Park, Perito Moreno Glacier, Puerto Natales, Pingo Salvaje, Milodon Cave, Rupestre Patagonia Park, Laguna Sofia, Torres del Paine National Park, Los Cuernos, Lago Pehoe, Salto Grande, Lago Gray, Laguna Amarga, Blue Lagoon, Cerro Castillo, Serrano Glacier, Seno Ultima Esperanza, Balmaceda Glacier, Punta Arenas, Santiago ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
LPATZN20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided