For something to be an adventure, it doesn’t have to be adrenaline-inducing.
Instead, it could be a trip to a far-flung destination that’s been left largely untouched, waiting for you to come and explore it.
There are increasingly few places like that in the world, but one that remains is Patagonia.
Whether you’re into hiking, climbing, wildlife watching, or whitewater rafting, this region will have plenty of once-in-a-lifetime activities to keep you occupied.
Where is Patagonia?
Patagonia is located at the southern tip of South America and stretches across Argentina and Chile, meeting the Atlantic Ocean in the east and the Pacific Ocean in the west.
Excluding Antarctic research stations, the region is home to the southernmost permanently inhabited place in the world: Puerto Toro, a tiny outpost located on the island of Navarino in Chile.
Why you should visit
There are plenty of reasons people head to the remarkable area of Patagonia, and here are just a few of them.
Amazing landscapes
Boasting the Andes, crystalline lakes, vast grasslands, and rugged coastal areas, Patagonia offers a wide range of incredible vistas that are significantly different from one another.
Up close with glaciers
If mountains that pierce the sky and glacial lakes are more your thing, a visit to Los Glaciares National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – in the Argentine part of Patagonia will be essential. Jump aboard a boat and enjoy the extraordinary views of Perito Moreno Glacier, where you may see icy blue chunks break away and drop dramatically into the sea.
On the Chilean side, Torres del Paine National Park is a must-see destination. The striking Cordillera del Paine is the main attraction, but Grey Glacier is just to the west and is truly a sight to behold.
A hiker’s paradise
Looking for a challenge for your next hiking expedition? Patagonia is perfect.
El Chalten is a small village within Los Glaciares National Park that is an ideal base for hiking trips due to the many trails nearby.
You won’t have to go far for simply breathtaking views of Cerro Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre – imposing mountains with sheer faces that will leave you struck with awe.
See the wildlife
As a huge area of largely unspoiled landscape, Patagonia boasts magnificent biodiversity that is a huge draw for animal lovers.
The oceans are home to orcas, humpback whales, and blue whales, while the southern shorelines are often inhabited by penguins.
If you’d prefer to stay on dry land, there are expeditions around tracking the elusive puma. Bird watching is also available, with the Andean condor patrolling the region’s skies.
