Legends of Patagonia: glaciers and imposing peaks

Trip Description

Accomodation

Stay program

• day 1

  Welcome to Argentina

  Upon your arrival, you will be welcomed and taken by private transfer to your hotel. First steps in vibrant Buenos Aires, a city of a thousand faces where the elegance of European architecture blends with the bubbling energy of local life. Bordered by the waters of the Río de la Plata, the Argentine capital charms with its cosmopolitan atmosphere and cultural richness. Each neighborhood has its own character: from the colorful streets of La Boca to the antique dealers of San Telmo, passing by the grand avenues and lively squares. Let yourself be carried away by the welcoming atmosphere of its inhabitants and the captivating aroma of local cuisine, from empanadas and asado to good wine. In the evening, the city comes alive to the sound of tango. In the milongas or intimate shows, dance and music tell the Argentine soul with passion and intensity. Buenos Aires opens its arms wide to welcome you to begin this journey with emotion and wonder.

• day 2

  Bike ride in the northern districts of the capital.

  Set off for a 4-hour guided tour (13.4 km) through the elegant neighborhoods in the north of the capital: Plaza San Martín, Retiro, Recoleta and its fascinating stories, then the green spaces of Palermo and its famous Rosedal. Between history, architecture, and nature, this walk offers you a different perspective on Buenos Aires. Bike, helmet, water, and insurance included.

• day 3

  Exploring the iconic neighborhoods of Buenos Aires

  Accompanied by your French-speaking guide, set off to discover the historic center of the city, starting with the Plaza de Mayo and its emblematic buildings such as the Cabildo. As you stroll, admire the majestic domes and the diversity of architectural styles. You will then walk along the wide boulevards inspired by Haussmannian urban planning before diving into the artistic and bohemian atmosphere of San Telmo, then into the colorful world of La Boca, with its famous Caminito street, a true open-air art gallery. Duration: about 4 hours Then, at the end of the day, set off for a 4-hour culinary tour through the trendiest neighborhood of Buenos Aires. Accompanied by an English- or Spanish-speaking guide, you will taste local specialties in iconic places, from the neighborhood rotisería to award-winning restaurants, including a wine bar and a traditional parrilla. Along the way, enjoy the lively atmosphere, unique architecture, and colorful street art of Palermo. Dinner included – Small group.

• day 4

  Flight to Ushuaia and the end of the world.

  Today, you take off for Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world – welcome to the end of the world! The rest of the day is free so you can stroll at your own pace through this unique city. Take the opportunity to discover its old houses, visit the End of the World Museum or the Maritime Museum located in the former penitentiary. Nestled between the mountains and the Beagle Channel, Ushuaia, the capital of Tierra del Fuego, captivates with its unique atmosphere. Long considered a remote place, it first hosted a penitentiary at the beginning of the 20th century, before becoming an industrial center attracting new residents. Today, its colorful tin-roofed houses give it a very special charm. The port, for its part, evokes expeditions to Antarctica and reinforces this impression of being at the end of the world. IMPORTANT: Domestic flights are not included. The price of flights varies depending on the dates and availability at the time of the quote. We can gladly include them in your quote, provided we have more precise dates.

• day 5

  Southern beauties from the ends of the earth

  Today, set out to explore the spectacular landscapes of Tierra del Fuego National Park, a place where the southern nature reveals itself in all its splendor. Between rugged mountains, deep forests, peaceful lakes, and winding rivers, you will discover a true mosaic of natural environments at the heart of this region at the end of the world. Created in 1960, this park covers more than 63,000 hectares and is home to the southernmost Andean-Patagonian forest on the planet. You will follow trails that cross peat bog areas, lenga and guindo forests, and you may even spot yellow Magellanic orchids in the spring. Wildlife is also present, with beavers—an introduced species now causing imbalances—as well as foxes, gulls, and even bats. Group excursion accompanied by a Spanish- and English-speaking guide. Duration: 5 hours, park entrance included.

• day 6

  Intimate navigation on the Beagle Channel

  Meet your guide at the port to board a comfortable yacht heading towards the natural wonders of the Beagle Channel. We begin the navigation by sailing along Alicia Island, where a colony of South American fur seals lounges on the rocks. Then, we set course for Bird Island, a true sanctuary for imperial and king cormorants, which can be observed nesting between spring and autumn. The route continues to another rocky island, sometimes visited by two-haired sea lions depending on the season, then to the famous Les Éclaireurs lighthouse, an unmissable emblem of Ushuaia, which has watched over these waters since 1919. Nearby, we also spot rock cormorants on their cliffs. On the way back, we stop at Bridges Island. A short guided hike allows you to discover local plants, seabirds, and to dive into the fascinating history of the Yámanas, former inhabitants of the region. There you will find impressive shell mounds, visible traces of their presence. We climb up to the island's panoramic viewpoint, offering a spectacular view of the Beagle Channel and the city of Ushuaia on the horizon. On board, we enjoy a warm break with a selection of drinks: tea, hot chocolate, Argentine mate, and coffee liqueur, accompanied by local sweets. Duration: 4 hours Departures: every day at 9:30 am and 3:00 pm Note: transfers to the port are not included.

• day 7

  Gastronomic getaway in the heart of Tierra del Fuego

  Get ready for an unforgettable day combining breathtaking landscapes and unique culinary delights. Your adventure begins with a journey from Ushuaia, heading north, to take the detour onto provincial road "J", leading to the bay of the Beagle Channel. A first stop at Laguna Victoria will allow you to enjoy a small snack while admiring the beauty of the place. Next, head to Brown Bay, where you can discover the famous "flag trees" and take a moment to appreciate this fascinating spot. After this break, you continue on the road towards Puerto Almanza, the artisanal fishing port renowned for its crab catches. From there, you will continue to the home of an iconic fisherwoman of the region. This captain of the Beagle Channel will welcome you to introduce you to the local culinary art, offering you an exclusive gastronomic experience. You will take part in the preparation of dishes based on trout, mussels, and of course, centolla, while enjoying a warm and authentic encounter. The excursion continues with a one-kilometer walk through the forest, before returning to civilization with unforgettable memories. Duration: 6 hours Departures: every day except Sunday and Monday Meals: lunch included Small group, English/Spanish-speaking guide Note: uneven terrain to cross to reach the fisherwoman's house.

• day 8

  Flight to El Calafate

  Embark on a journey to El Calafate, the gateway to the majestic glaciers of Patagonia! Upon your arrival, a spectacular panorama awaits you with Lake Argentino, visible as soon as you land. You can then head to the village, located on the shores of the lake's crystal-clear waters. El Calafate, nestled on the southern shore of Lago Argentino, is the ideal starting point for exploring Los Glaciares National Park, famous for its natural wonders such as the Perito Moreno Glacier, the Upsala Glacier, and Mount Fitz Roy. At the end of the day, optionally, you will be warmly welcomed at Gabriel's, where you can enjoy a typical dinner, featuring delicious dishes such as lamb goulash or a casserole of seasonal vegetables, accompanied by local wines. An authentic experience in the heart of Patagonia. The evening at Gabriel's is optional.

• day 9

  Authentic Patagonia: from Estancia Nibepo Aike to the walkways of Perito Moreno

  Departure from 9:30 am, with a local guide, for an unforgettable adventure towards Estancia Nibepo Aike via the old route 15, also called "the road of the estancias." This journey immerses you in the history of Patagonia, crossing landscapes marked by the traces of indigenous peoples, pioneers, and local inhabitants. Once you arrive in Los Glaciares National Park, Estancia Nibepo Aike awaits you, a historic place where the first settlers settled more than 100 years ago. There, you will discover the estancia's enclosures and warehouses, and attend a manual shearing demonstration. After a delicious Patagonian lamb asado served in the Estancia's Quincho, accompanied by salads, desserts, and drinks, you will continue your adventure with a walk to the Pioneers' dock. There, a navigation on the Brazo Sur and Brazo Rico of Lake Argentino awaits you, before landing on the Las Monedas beach, accessible only by boat. A 40-minute hike will allow you to discover the native forest and its wild cattle, remnants of former livestock activities. You will cross a lenga forest until you reach the Glaciar Sur viewpoint, offering a breathtaking view of the Perito Moreno glacier. The navigation continues along the southern face of the glacier, offering a unique perspective on its immense blocks of ice. After disembarking at the Bajo de las Sombras port, you will take a land route to the glacier walkways, where you will enjoy spectacular views from different angles. The excursion ends with a return to El Calafate in the late afternoon, with a breathtaking sunset. Lunch included. Small group activity, with English/Spanish-speaking guide. Park entrance included. If navigation is partially or totally impossible, an alternative plan will be put in place, including land access to the glacier and, if possible, navigation near the Perito Moreno.

• day 10

  A day of exploration between ancient forests and ice giants.

  Early in the morning, around 8 a.m., you will be picked up to head towards the port of Punta Bandera. There, you will board for an unforgettable navigation through the Canal de los Témpanos, heading towards the Seno Mayo of Lake Argentino, an isolated and still little-visited arm of the lake. First stop: Bahía Toro. Accompanied by a guide, you will set off for a gentle and interpretive walk through the Patagonian Andean forest. You will discover wild cherry trees, cinnamon trees, lengas, and ñires, until you encounter an impressive century-old cherry tree whose trunk reaches more than three meters in diameter. Continuing your walk, you will reach a small stream fed by a waterfall, and you will contemplate a spectacular limestone cliff, 180 meters high and 100 meters wide. This almost secret place will offer you a moment of calm and wonder before returning to the boat. The navigation then continues through the Seno Mayo, offering exceptional views of the hanging glaciers of the Mayo and Negro hills. A second landing awaits you, followed by a walk of about one kilometer in the forest. You will follow a stream to a natural viewpoint from where the view of the hanging glaciers is simply breathtaking: a 360° panorama of the majesty of southern Patagonia. After a moment of contemplation, you will return to the boat for the last part of the crossing: the approach to the famous north face of the Perito Moreno glacier. You will disembark at Puerto Moreno, at the foot of the walkways, for a free visit of about two hours. This will be an opportunity to observe up close this fascinating natural monument and, perhaps, to witness the spectacular collapse of blocks of ice into the lake. At the end of the day, you will be taken back to El Calafate, with your eyes full of images, around 6 p.m. Total duration: about 10 hours Included: English/Spanish-speaking guide, park entrance, box lunch. To bring: sunglasses, sunscreen, warm clothes, gloves, and comfortable shoes.

• day 11

  Heading towards El Chaltén, in the heart of Patagonia's trails.

  In the morning, you take the road by bus towards El Chaltén, nicknamed the Argentine capital of trekking. The journey lasts about three hours, during which you cross the vast Patagonian steppes, with the Andean peaks as a backdrop. Upon your arrival, a first gift awaits you: a breathtaking view of the imposing Mount Fitz Roy, the mythical guardian of this wild region. The afternoon is free, the perfect opportunity to explore this bohemian-looking mountain village, nestled in a spectacular setting of ancient forests, glaciers, and mountains. Founded on October 12, 1985, El Chaltén is the youngest village in Argentina. Today, it has about 2,000 inhabitants and is located within Los Glaciares National Park, in its northern section, on the edge of Lago Viedma. The name "Chaltén" comes from the Aonikenk language (of the Tehuelches, native people of the region), and means "smoking mountain." At the time, the first inhabitants believed that Mount Fitz Roy was a volcano, because of the clouds that often covered its summit. Today, this village attracts climbers, hikers, and nature lovers from all over the world, who come to enjoy one of the most beautiful natural playgrounds in South America. Here, the trails are numerous and varied: from the easily accessible Chorrillo del Salto, to the Laguna de los Tres at the foot of Fitz Roy, passing by Laguna Capri, Laguna Torre, or the Piedras Blancas glacier. Everyone can find an adventure to suit them. Since November 2024, an entrance to Los Glaciares National Park is now required to access El Chaltén and its trails. This can be purchased directly on site.

• day 12

  At the foot of Fitz Roy

  Today, you have a free day in El Chaltén to set out and discover one of Patagonia’s most iconic trails: the hike to Laguna de los Tres, located at the foot of the legendary Mount Fitz Roy. This is a hike of moderate to high difficulty, recommended for people in good physical condition. The total route is about 20 to 22 km round trip, with a positive elevation gain of 800 to 900 meters, depending on the starting point. You should allow 8 to 9 hours of walking in total, including breaks. The trail can start directly from the village or, to save a bit of distance, from the parking lot at Hostería El Pilar, accessible by vehicle or transfer. This starting point offers a beautiful view of the Piedras Blancas glacier from the very first kilometers. Throughout the hike, you cross lenga forests, walk along crystal-clear rivers, and admire different viewpoints of Fitz Roy. The last section, the final ascent to the lagoon, is the most demanding: 400 meters of elevation gain over 1 km, on a steep climb over rocky and gravel terrain. But at the top, the effort is rewarded with a breathtaking panorama of Laguna de los Tres, surrounded by sharp peaks, snowfields, and hanging glaciers. It is possible to descend a few meters to also observe Laguna Sucia, another glacial gem with intensely blue waters. Note: For those who prefer a gentler option, the trail to Laguna Capri (about 8 km round trip) is an excellent compromise, with a beautiful view of Fitz Roy and a peaceful setting for a picnic or to relax.

• day 13

  Laguna Torre

  This free day in El Chaltén offers you the opportunity to explore one of the most classic and accessible trails in Los Glaciares National Park: the hike to Laguna Torre, at the foot of the majestic Cerro Torre, renowned for being one of the most difficult peaks to climb in the world. The hike is of moderate difficulty, with about 18 km round trip from the center of the village, and about 250 to 300 meters of positive elevation gain. You should plan for 6 to 7 hours of walking, depending on your pace and the time spent at the lagoon. The trail is well marked and very gradual, without any steep climbs. From the very first kilometers, you access viewpoints over the Fitz Roy river valley, the hanging glaciers and, in clear weather, Cerro Solo, Mount Fitz Roy and of course, Cerro Torre itself. After about 3 hours of walking, you arrive at Laguna Torre, a glacial lagoon formed at the foot of the Grande glacier, often dotted with floating icebergs. If the weather allows, you can admire the reflection of Cerro Torre in its calm waters: a moment of pure magic. It is possible to extend the walk by about 2 km to the Maestri viewpoint, which offers a closer perspective of the glacier.

• day 14

  Return to El Calafate

  After enjoying the magnificent trails and mountain landscapes of El Chaltén, you head back to El Calafate by regular line bus. The journey takes about 3 hours, through the vast Patagonian steppes, bordered by lakes Viedma and Argentino. Departure can be in the morning or afternoon, depending on your preferences and your schedule for the rest of the day. Upon your arrival in El Calafate, settle into your accommodation and enjoy some free time to explore this pleasant small town, located at the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park.

• day 15

  Heading for the Towers: journey to the heart of wild Patagonia

  After breakfast, you pick up your rental car in El Calafate and begin your journey to Torres del Paine National Park, one of the most beautiful natural jewels of Chilean Patagonia. The drive takes about 5 to 6 hours (270 km), depending on the time needed for customs formalities at the border between Argentina and Chile, usually crossed at the Cancha Carrera – Cerro Castillo post. The route will take you through wind-swept steppe landscapes, vast estancias, and as you get closer to the park, the spectacular silhouettes of the granite towers will start to appear on the horizon. You settle into your accommodation inside the park, a valuable asset for exploring Torres del Paine at your own pace, without having to make long journeys each day. The afternoon is free: depending on your arrival time and your energy, you can start discovering the surroundings with an easy walk near your accommodation, or take the road for a first encounter with iconic viewpoints such as Lago Pehoé, Lago Nordenskjöld, or Salto Grande, a powerful waterfall framed by the Cuernos del Paine. The pure air, the changing lights on the mountains, and the feeling of being at the end of the world will mark this first immersion in the park.

• day 16

  Full day in Torres del Paine National Park

  Today, several options are available to you to discover the spectacular landscapes of Torres del Paine, depending on your energy and desires. Hike to the base of the Torres (7 to 9h, high level – 20 km round trip) One of the most iconic in the park. A gradual ascent up to the famous viewpoint at the foot of the three granite towers. Impressive view of a glacial lake surrounded by dizzying peaks. Mirador Cuernos (2 to 3h, moderate level – 6 km) A panoramic trail from Salto Grande to the viewpoint over the Cuernos del Paine. Ideal for a gentler walk, with landscapes of turquoise lakes and jagged mountains. Mirador Cóndor (1h30 to 2h, moderate level – steep climb) 360° view over the Pehoé and Nordenskjöld lakes. Perfect for observing condors in flight on clear days. Other quieter walks or by car are also possible. It's up to you to choose how to experience this first day in the heart of the park.

• day 17

  Free day in Torres del Paine Park – discovery of lakes and lagoons.

  Today, you can continue to explore the wonders of the park at your own pace. Several options are available to you: Grey Lake and glacier navigation Access via a beautiful road running along Lake Pehoé. Once at the Grey refuge, you can book a boat trip to the front of the Grey Glacier, an impressive wall of ice floating on the milky waters of the lake. (Advance booking recommended.) Laguna Amarga and Laguna Azul Two iconic lagoons located at the northern gates of the park. Laguna Amarga is known for its mineral waters with intense reflections and the guanacos that often graze there. Laguna Azul, more secluded, offers a clear and spectacular view of the Torres del Paine, in a peaceful and little-visited setting. Depending on your preferences, you can combine several stops or enjoy a leisurely walk around the lagoons, observing the local wildlife.

• day 18

  On the way to Argentina

  Today, you will take the road towards El Calafate, crossing the magnificent landscapes of Patagonia. The return drive will allow you to enjoy one last time the exceptional panoramas of the region, between mountains, steppes, and lakes. The estimated duration of the drive is about 4 to 5 hours, depending on the stops you choose to make along the way. You will follow the border between Chile and Argentina, passing through wild and unspoiled landscapes. Upon your arrival in El Calafate, you can enjoy the evening to relax and discover the city at your own pace.

• day 19

  Flight to Buenos Aires

  This morning, you will return your rental vehicle in El Calafate. Once the formalities are completed, you will take your flight to Buenos Aires. Upon your arrival in Buenos Aires, you will have the opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable experience by choosing an evening with a tango dinner show (optional, not included). This option will allow you to discover the essence of Argentine culture through dance, music, and a delicious meal, in one of the capital's famous tango venues. It is the perfect opportunity to end your trip on a high note, immersed in the passionate atmosphere of tango, before continuing your adventure or returning home.

• day 20

  Free day in Buenos Aires

  Enjoy a free day to relax and explore Buenos Aires at your own pace. Start with a leisurely stroll through the modern Puerto Madero district, where you can admire the contemporary architecture and glass buildings lining the river. It is one of the liveliest neighborhoods in the city, with many restaurants and cafés where you can enjoy a meal by the water. Next, head to the Costanera Ecological Reserve, a true haven of peace in the heart of the city. This green space will offer you a moment of tranquility, with walking paths, bike trails, and a breathtaking view of the Río de la Plata. Ideal for a walk in nature, away from the urban hustle and bustle, you can observe the local wildlife and enjoy the serenity of this place. It is a perfect day to recharge your batteries before taking your return flight.

• day 21

  Last day: transfer to the international airport.

  After exploring the wonders of southern Argentina and Chile, from the far south in Ushuaia to the majestic Torres del Paine, it is time to say goodbye to this unforgettable region. Depending on your flight time, you will be transferred to Buenos Aires International Airport, where you can catch your return flight. This day marks the end of an exceptional journey through some of the world's most spectacular landscapes, from the imposing glaciers of Patagonia to the wild forests of Torres del Paine. Once at the airport, after discovering so much beauty and nature, you will leave this adventure taking with you unforgettable memories of these lands at the end of the world.