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Friday Feature: Patagonia

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Patagonia

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This enchanting place encompasses the vast southernmost tip of South America, shared by Argentina and Chile, with the Andes Mountains as its dividing line. From grasslands and deserts on the Argentine side to the glacial fjords and temperate rainforests on the Chilean side, this place is truly an outdoor enthusiasts dream. How do you get to this incredible destination? To reach Patagonia, you’ll want to fly through Buenos Aires Ezeiza International Airport (EZE) and then take a hopper flight to your desired Patagonian city. You could also fly into Punta Arenas Airport (PUQ), and cross the border into El Calafate in Southern Patagonia.

Best Times to Visit: The best time to visit Chilean Patagonia is November to early March, which is summertime in the southern hemisphere. Although you’ll compete with heavy crowds during this peak season, the weather is ideal for exploring Torres del Paine National Park and Tierra del Fuego.

Things to do:

Take a glacier cruise on Lago Argentina. This is sure to be a highlight of any Patagonia trip! The boat takes you past breathtakingly beautiful icebergs and glaciers in Lago Argentina! This boat even passes through Upsala Glacier, the largest glacier in all of South America.

Explore Los Alerces National Park. This is one of the most beautiful and underrated parks in all of Patagonia. Located in Argentina’s Province of Chubut, this park is home to numerous lakes, self guided hiking trails, and the “EL Abuelo” – a 2,600 year old tree!

Go whale watching around Peninsula Valdés. Peninsula Valdes is on the Atlantic side of Argentinian Patagonia, and truly a must-see for wildlife lovers. From May to November, this coastal area is a breeding home to Southern Right Whales, an endangered species native to this area.

Take in the views of Ruta 40 or Carretera Austral. This route isn’t the fastest way to travel through the region, but if you are wanting stunning views of this beautiful landscape – this road will take you there! The road streches 3,000 miles through the Argentina side of Patagonia and stops through places like Bariloche, El Bolson, and the Perito Moreno.

There is so much to see and do in this awesome region, click HERE for more ideas!

Feature Hotel: The Singular, Tierra Patagonia Hotel and Spa, Llao Llao Hotel & Resort Golf-Spa, Awasi Patagonia

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Things to know before you go…

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  • Don’t forget your hiking boots. Great sneakers won’t cut it here. The trails in Patagonia are often super muddy, rocky, or wet.

  • Bring the right kinds of clothes with you. You can experience all kinds of different weather within the span of a few hours in Patagonia – waterproof clothing is definitely recommended!

  • The accommodations are luxury. While some might opt to rough it by hiking and camping in the wilderness, those who prefer a hotel should be prepared for the luxurious accommodations.

  • Get in shape before the trip. There are all types of trails for all types of fitness levels, but in order to truly experience this region you will want to be prepared!

    Click HERE for more information!

Follow the adventure!

@explorateurtravel