Patagonia - Land of Giants

Patagonia isn't just a region – it's an inspiration. One of South America's most magical destinations, this is a land of giants filled with spectacular mountains, vast glaciers and azure alpine lakes that will quite simply take your breath away. The sheer size and space of this rugged yet beautiful wilderness all combine to create a powerful sense of natural balance. 

Our holidays to Patagonia start from £2,589 per person. Get in touch to start planning your perfect trip today!

So what exactly makes Patagonia so special? The region ranges across both Chile and Argentina and is most famous for its unique wildlife and diverse geography. Snow, mountains, lakes and an endless coastline are amongst some of its highlights, but its most noticeable and impressive characteristic is the perpetual sense of limitless space and freedom one feels – and cannot ignore – when here.

As a true 'museum of nature', Patagonia offers all sorts of mesmerising views ranging from impressive peaks, plateaus, glaciers and untouched rivers to the most peaceful backwater oases. Whether you want to hike through the Torres del Paine National Park, explore the Chilean and Argentinian Lake Districts or discover Peninsula Valdes, Huilo Huilo or El Calafate, you can be assured of enjoying never-ending beauty and a permanent sense of calmness.

We know that trying to decide what to see and where to start when planning the perfect trip to Patagonia can be a little overwhelming, but don't worry – this is where our Latin Routes can help. Not only can we create a Truly Individual Holiday to Patagonia completely tailor-made to you, but we also operate our own selection of Escorted Small Group Tours too!

Our friendly Travel Specialists have travelled extensively through South America and know the continent like the back of their hands, so they will be able to make the perfect recommendations – and plan your perfect itinerary – based on all the things that are most important to you. 

Ready to begin creating your perfect holiday to Patagonia? Simply complete our enquiry form, or call one of our Travel Specialists directly on 0333 270 1479.

Try Calafate Liquor 

For those who enjoy taste-related experiences, Calafate liquor is definitely one to put on the list. Made from Calafate berries (Patagonia's best-known plant) this liquor is the perfect exotic refreshment to sample whilst on your trip.

 Australis Patagonia Cruises 

Australis is an expedition cruise company that has been sailing through Patagonia’s southernmost channels for more than 25 years. With all the comforts of a luxury hotel, this is the perfect way to discover the remote and fascinating parts of this beautiful region in an exciting expedition-style way! 

Best Australis Patagonia Cruises > 

Skiing

Skiing in Patagonia is unlike any skiing you will have done before, and we can't recommend it enough! Just imagine how it might feel to be skiing on an active volcano looking down over three huge beautiful azure lakes, or even skiing within sight of the sea. These are truly unique experiences that you will carry with you forever. 
The ski season in Patagonia runs from mid-June to mid-October.

Skiing in South America >

Self-Drive the Austral Highway

The Austral highway road is known for its outstandingly beautiful scenery, passing by deep forests, crystal-clear waters and rugged mountainous backdrops. The best part is that it can be totally self-driven which allows you to independently enjoy all of its highlights – fly fishing, trekking in national parks, exploring villages, rafting in one of the abundant rivers and relaxing in one of the many natural hot springs. This is a road-trip that will certainly not disappoint! 

Holidays to the Austral Highway >

Whale Watch at Valdes Peninsula

If you've ever dreamt of seeing whales up close, Valdes Peninsula is by far one of the best places in the world to do so. Due to the peninsula's own microclimate, which provides an ideal location for the Southern Right Whales' reproductive behaviour, the concentration of individual whales per square kilometre is extremely high in the area, with more than 1,100 individuals having been counted in the month of September in previous years! They're to be found in the area throughout the whole season from June to December however, and watching these majestic mammals is certain to be a highlight of your life, let alone your holiday. 

Find out more about whale watching boat trips >

Hike on a Glacier

If you think that seeing a glacier up close is impressive, you're right. But for an experience even more impressive, you should try climbing one! It's all possible in Patagonia, where the incredible three-mile wide Perito Moreno Glacier offers many hiking opportunities, with tours that are often described as both an extremely thrilling and humbling experience. Definitely not your everyday hike, and definitely not one that you should miss.  

Rock Climbing

Rock climbing in Patagonia, like everything else you do in this incredible region, is an exciting activity that comes with a reward of truly astonishing views. Depending on your climbing skills you can choose between the more challenging or easier routes. Some of the most famous rock climbing areas include Piedra Parada in the Chubut region of Argentina, and Chalten Massif in Southern Patagonia, also Argentina.

Rock climbing excursions > 

Three Lake Crossing

When in Patagonia, the three-lake crossing is a must. Undoubtedly the most scenic way to travel between Bariloche in Argentina and Puerto Varas in Chile, this journey takes you through Andean mountain passes and the clear waters of the incredible Nahuel Huapi, Frias and Todos Los Santos lakes. You'll feel completely reenergised by the beauty and peacefulness of this experience. 

Patagonian Lamb Asado

Are you ready for the best lamb you will ever taste? The Patagonian asado isn’t just a delicious meal, it’s also a throwback to the old days when sheep were quite literally the livelihood of Argentine and Chilean cowboys. Today is it a way of celebrating a special event, or even just the end of a workday, where friends and family will gather around an open coal and wood fire pit to share this delicious meal. 

Ready to begin creating your perfect Patagonia holiday? Simply complete our enquiry form, or call one of our Travel Specialists directly on 0208 546 6222.

El Calafate

Located near the edge of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field in the Argentine province of Santa Cruz, El Calafate is home to yet another irresistible attraction – the famous Perito Moreno Glacier (located in the Los Glaciares National Park). This ice field is the world's third largest reserve of fresh water, and something you will definitely want to see.

Tierra Del Fuego

Tierra Del Fuego is an archipelago divided between Argentina and Chile. The eastern part is known as 'Territory of Tierra del Fuego' and belongs to Argentina, and the western part, also known as 'Magallanes province' belongs to Chile. There are all sorts of incredible opportunities to keep you busy here, such as hiking the Martial Glacier, enjoying catamaran trips, visiting the Tierra del Fuego National Park, or even taking a cruise to Antarctica, starting from the world’s southernmost city – Ushuaia.  

Peninsula Valdes

This Patagonian nature reserve is located on the coast of Argentina and is one of the best possible places to observe wildlife. Be prepared to see wildlife as varied as elephant seals, magellanic penguins, armadillos and foxes, as these are all almost-guaranteed sightings during the high season. 

Huilo-Huilo

This natural reserve – an immense forest in Chile dedicated to wildlife conservation and tourism – was created in 1999. Some of its most popular attractions include the Huilo-Huilo falls, year-round skiing and the opportunity to enjoy some world-class birdwatching.

Torres del Paine National Park

Recognised as a Biosphere Reserve and UNESCO World Heritage site, this park is an immensely popular hiking destination, and for good reason – the views are simply breathtaking, and there are a number of different hiking options. You can choose from options such as a day hike to see the 'towers' that give the park its name, walking the famous "W" route in about five days, or for the more dedicated hikers, even an eight to nine-day trek taking you the full circle.

The Lake District

Northern Patagonia is home to the Lake District, a region that integrates parts of both Chile and Argentina. It is filled with ancient forests, blue lakes, volcanoes and picturesque Alpine villages that are all almost impossibly beautiful. This is another not-to-be-missed destination in Patagonia.

Chiloe Island

The mysterious archipelago of Chiloe is quite a fascinating one to visit. It consists of one main island, La Isla Grande, and numerous islets. Here you are almost always within sight of the sea and dolphins playing in the bay, and on a clear day you will also be able to see the impressive Corcovado volcano.

Ready to begin creating your perfect Patagonia holiday? Simply complete our enquiry form, or call one of our Travel Specialists directly on 0208 546 6222.

The Singular Patagonia  

The Singular Patagonia is a historic five-star hotel in Patagonia located just outside Puerto Natales. We love this hotel because of its historic setting, world-class spa, private museum and its gourmet restaurant with views over the Last Hope Sound and where award-winning chef Pasqualetto is in charge.

 Go to Singular Patagonia >

Nothofagus Hotel & Spa 

Nothofagus Hotel & Spa is an impressive building right in the heart of Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve’s architectural complex. Features include welcome drinks, tickets for self-guided activities, spa facilities (heated pool, cold, wet and dry sauna, relaxation room with infrared) as well as all the comforts of modern technology. Perfect for a comfortable and magical experience.

Go to Nothofagus Hotel & Spa >

Tierra Patagonia 

The Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa is an absolutely breathtaking place to visit, famous for its award-winning architecture that perfectly complements the stunning landscape. It has 40 beautifully decorated rooms, all with stunning views of the peaks of Torres del Paine National Park. 

Go to Tierra Patagonia >

Llao Llao Resort & Spa

Established back in 1940, this hotel in Bariloche has a dramatic setting enjoyable all year round. Features include an 18-hole golf course, luxurious décor, grand spaces, signature restaurant Los Cesares, and overall great service.

Go to Llao Llao resort & Spa >

Hotel Las Torres

This hotel is located within the boundaries of Torres Del Paine and has one of the best views in Chile. It was built to combine the comfort of a modern-day hotel while still retaining some of the charm of a traditional Patagonian estancia. 

Go to Hotel Las Torres >

EcoCamp Patagonia

This unique eco-friendly hotel with stunning views of Torres del Paine is the first of its kind. We love its friendly atmosphere and great communal spaces as well as its four different domes all inspired by the indigenous Kaweskar people. This is the perfect accommodation for all explorers. 

Got to EcoCamp Patagonia >

Patagonia Camp

Patagonia camp is a luxurious location that offers designer yurts with views across a turquoise lake to the crags of Cuermos del Paine, and is just 15 minutes away from the entrance to one of the world's most spectacular national parks – Torres del Paine. There are many activities available to enjoy, including walks, kayaking and mountain biking, as well as 3- and 4-night excursions to Torres del Paine, glaciers and ranches.

Go to Patagonia Camp >

Explora Patagonia

Established in 1993 on the banks of the Salto Chico waterfall, this beautifully located lodge offers 50 different guided hikes and horseback rides with different difficulty levels. It has 49 rooms and a variety of very inviting spaces. 

Go to Explora Pantagonia > 

Eolo Lodge

Eolo Lodge in El Calafate is set against some of the most spectacular natural scenery in Patagonia, and is an ideal base for exploring this beautiful area of Argentina. A luxurious lodge in a remote valley outside El Calafate and within reach of the glaciers, this is a perfect location for your next holiday.

Go to Eolo Lodge > 

Correntoso Lake River Hotel 

This peaceful accommodation features stylish rooms, each of which includes a modern and private ensuite, wifi and free parking. Some of the hotel's rooms also boast views of Nahuel Huapi Lake, while others have a private terrace – after all, who doesn't love soaking in a beautiful view first thing in the morning?

Go to Correntoso River Hotel > 

Ready to begin creating your perfect Patagonia holiday? Simply complete our enquiry form, or call one of our Travel Specialists directly on 0208 546 6222.

South Atlantic

The climate here can be described as that of an arid plateau. Rain ranges from 8 to 12 inches, with no snow.

Tierra Del Fuego

Summer (Dec-Feb): High summer is about 16°C, humid, with days that can stretch to 17 hours.
Winter (Jun-Aug): Average highs of 5°C, humid, and the sun peeks above the horizon for just seven hours a day.

Northern Lakes

Summer (Dec-Feb): The climate goes from very humid in the mountains to humid at the beginning of the plateau. Average temperatures of 22°C.
Winter (Jun-Aug): Rain gets stronger towards the west and with an abundant presence of snow. Average temperature of 0°C.

Glaciers

Summer (Dec-Feb): Pre-mountain and mountain ranges with presence of rain. 
Winter (Jun-Aug): A lot of snow and the mountain ranges help to moderate the wind.

Ready to begin creating your perfect Patagonia holiday? Simply complete our enquiry form, or call one of our Travel Specialists directly on 0208 546 6222.

In 1520, the Atlantic coast of Patagonia was first fully explored by the Spanish expedition led by Ferdinand Magellan, who on his passage along the coast named many of its more striking features – San Matías Gulf, Cape of 11,000 Virgins (now simply Cape Virgenes), and others. Magellan's fleet spent a difficult winter at what he named Puerto San Julián before resuming its voyage further south on 21 August 1520. During this time he encountered the local inhabitants – likely to be Tehuelche people – described by his reporter, Antonio Pigafetta, as giants called Patagons.

European explorations went on until 1669 and were led by varied names and nationalities. In 1669 the district around Puerto Deseado was explored by John Davis and was claimed in 1670 by Sir John Narborough for King Charles II of England. Later, the Chilean and Argentine colonisation came (1843-1902), and only in the second half of the 20th century did tourism became an ever more important part of Patagonia’s economy. Originally a remote backpacking destination, this region has now attracted increasing numbers of upmarket visitors, cruise passengers rounding Cape Horn or visiting Antarctica, and adventure and activity holidaymakers. 

For those who are curious, Monte Fitz Roy, also known as El Chalten, was discovered by the Argentinian explorer Francisco Moreno in March 1877. He named it in honour of Robert FitzRoy, the captain of the Beagle, who sailed up the Santa Cruz River and charted large parts of the Patagonian coast en route to the Galapagos Islands.

Ready to begin creating your perfect Patagonia holiday? Simply complete our enquiry form, or call one of our Travel Specialists directly on 0208 546 6222.