What are the best hikes in Patagonia?

Come with us as we explore the best hikes in Patagonia. Patagonia is an adventure travelers paradise. Covering huge amounts of land area in both Chile and Argentina, Patagonia is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes and rugged terrain anywhere in the world. From trekking to horseback riding, fly-fishing to remote backpacking, Patagonia truly has it all when it comes to must-see places.

In this article, we will explore all the best hikes in Patagonia, which you can combine into adventurous Patagonia tours! Whether you are hiking the O Circuit in Torres del Paine, trekking in Los Glaciares National Park, looking for an El Chaltén hiking map, doing the Laguna Torres hike, or trekking hut to hut in Bariloche, this list has you covered.

1. The W Trek

Difficulty Level: Moderate
Time Required: 3 to 5 Days
Where to Stay: Hotel Las Torres

The W Trek in Patagonia is our favorite hike and the best multi-day trek we most often recommend to our travelers. This trek through Torres del Paine National Park will take you 4 days at a decent pace and will require good stamina and physical fitness. You will need rugged backpacking gear but fear not! We have you covered as we have a list of the Essential Equipment for the W Trek or O Trek in Patagonia. This is THE must-do hike or trek in Patagonia.

2. Mount Fitz Roy Trek and Cerro Torre

Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Time Required: 2 Days
Where to Stay: El Chalten

No list titled the best hikes in Patagonia would be complete without the Mount Fitz Roy Trek and Cerro Torres hike. This is arguably the most classic trek in all of Patagonia because it gets you up close and personal with the most famous peak in all of Patagonia. Located in the Southern part of Torres Del Paine National Park, these two treks can be combined together easily over 2 days in what might be the best hike in all of Patagonia. They can also be split up into two separate hikes and completed as day trips easily from El Chalten.

3. Perito Moreno Glacier

Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Time Required: 1 Day
Where to Stay: El Calafate

An absolute classic, we LOVE sending our travelers up onto the Perito Moreno Glacier. This is one of the Best Hikes in Patagonia because it’s easy to access from El Calafate, as well as the absolutely stunning view at the top of the glacier. This roughly 4-hour hike with crampons is a must-do hike in Patagonia. What more needs to be said? Do it! Perito Moreno Glacier is truly a must-see place in Patagonia.

4. Piedra del Fraile & Glaciar Pollone

Difficulty Level: Moderate
Time Required: 1 Day
Where to Stay: El Chalten

This is an absolutely wonderful and off-the-beaten-path trek. Piedra del Fraile is a 2-hour walk from the trailhead and the Pollone Glacier will take about another 2 hours from there. Another wonderful day hike in Patagonia, this hike is a bit difficult, so you will hardly see anyone else on the trail. A spectacular day-hike choice.

5. The Laguna Torres Trek

Difficulty Level: Easy
Time Required: 1 Day
Where to Stay: Torres del Paine

The Laguna Torres Trek is a Patagonia classic hike and a must-see place in Patagonia. It features some of the best views in all of Patagonia and is easily completed in a full-day by someone with moderate to intermediate fitness levels. It will take you about 4 hours to reach the lake way amongst the rugged peaks of Patagonia. Including time spent at the top and then hike back, the total trek takes about 9 hours. If you are looking for a day-hike in Patagonia, consider Laguna Torres.

6. The O Circuit

Difficulty Level: Moderate to Hard
Time Required: 6 to 10 Days
Where to Stay: Torres del Paine

Next up on our list of the best hikes in Patagonia is the O Circuit. Also known as the Circuit Patagonia, this hike is an 8-day journey through Torres del Paine National Park in Chile. Considered by many to be the more remote, more rugged version of the W Trek, this trek is somewhat limited in epic views but more than makes up for it in authenticity and remoteness. This trek will involve tons of camping and rugged backpacking and if you are an adventure traveler at heart, this is just the trek for you.

7. Paso del Viento Trek

Difficulty Level: Hard
Time Required: 3 Days
Where to Stay: El Chalten

Paso del Vientos, also known as Windy Pass, is a remote pass in Patagonia. The trek or hike to the pass takes 3 days and 2 nights to complete and will involve remote camping, route-finding, and surely some of the most amazing and remote views you have ever seen in your life. Begin and end this trek in El Chalten and consider it if you are looking for a trek a bit more off the beaten path.

8. Laguna Capri Trek

Difficulty Level: Easy
Time Required: Half Day
Where to Stay: El Chalten

One of the best day-hikes in Patagonia, the Laguna Capri Trek, located in Los Glaciares National Park, is an easy 2-hour journey up to a picturesque lake overlooking Mount Fitz Roy. This hike provides one of the best views in all of Patagonia, in our opinion, and is doable by nearly every fitness level. So no matter your travel style, if you are in Patagonia and looking for a hike with a lot of rewards and minimal effort, this is the hike you are looking for.

9. The Huemul Circuit

Difficulty Level: Hard
Time Required: 4 to 5 Days
Where to Stay: El Chalten

Regarded as one of the most difficult treks in all of Patagonia, the Huemul Circuit is a very tough four-day journey through a remote area of Parque Nacional Los Glaciares. Starting again in El Chalten, you spend 4 strenuous days rappelling on ropes, walking through storybook meadows, and catching views that only Patagonia can deliver. This hike is no joke and we recommend a Patagonia trekking guide to accompany you on your journey. It is the best way to enjoy yourself and stay safe on the most difficult hike on our list.

10. Laguna de Los Tres Hike

Difficulty Level: Moderate to Hard
Time Required: 1 Day (option for overnight stay)
Where to Stay: El Chalten

Laguna de Los Tres is a must-see place in Patagonia. Laguna de Los Tres is an absolutely breathtaking hike to a deep blue lake hike up in the mountains. This hike is one of The Best Hikes in Patagonia because along with it, you hike past Mount Fitz Roy, Cerro Torre Peak, as well as Aguja Poincenot. The hike is located in Los Glaciares National Park and it can be completed in either one long day of walking or split into 2 days. Our recommendation is to take 2 days to complete it and witness one of the most amazing sunrises you will surely ever see! This hike starts from El Chalten and it just so happens we wrote a Travel Guide to El Chalten! Have a look.

Once you’ve finished your Patagonia trek, consider a stay on a traditional estancia as a great way to end your trip.

Best South America Cruises Reviews

South America is full of beautiful natural sites, rich history, and vibrant cultures. From the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador to the charming Cartagena in Colombia to the ancient history of Cusco, Peru. There’s a lot to see and do. For particular destinations in South America, we recommend touring by cruise, rather than exploring every region by land. Avoid adding multiple land transfers to your trip, and have an expert set you up with a full-package cruise tour. Booking a custom South America cruise with an expert will make sorting through your travel options a whole lot easier. When you go this route, the entire trip is customised and planned for you. You will be able to catch sight of some of the country’s best offerings, all from the comfort of the ship. We present you a couple of  South America cruises reviews so you can determine which is right for you.

1. Amazon Rainforest Cruises

Amazon Rainforest Cruises travel along the Amazon River, surrounded by the luscious Amazon Jungle. Travellers can choose from many Amazon Cruise options. There are various types of vessels, depending on the kind of experience you are looking to obtain. Also, cruise routes vary in terms of which part of the Amazon you are looking to see. These cruises allow visitors to feel fully immersed in the rainforest as they sail down exclusive paths. These routes may be less traveled, but they still offer several must-see sites worthy of exploration. These are recommended to travelers seeking to gain an off-the-grid experience.

The most popular Amazon cruise offered is the Tucano Amazon Cruise, a feature in the National Geographic Traveler Magazine. The Tucano is unique due to its size. With only 13 cabins, it provides a more intimate and therefore, more authentic experience. The crew and guides take passengers via launches and canoes to some of the lesser-known tributaries along the river. Visitors get the opportunity to witness unique sights such as the Meeting of the Waters. Furthermore, you have a chance to see the Anavilhanas Archipelago – an island system part of a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site. This once-in-a-lifetime cruise runs for 5-days / 4-nights. It’s one of the most reviewed South America cruises.

2. Galápagos Island Cruises

The Galápagos Islands are one of the last unspoiled places on Earth. Where animals can roam free, and vegetation spreads without the interference of humankind. In fact, of the 120 islands that make up the Galápagos, only four have human inhabitants. The Galápagos Islands are home to one of the most diverse wildlife populations on earth. Such communities include penguins, tortoises, sea lions and exotic birds.

The Galápagos Islands Legend Cruise takes you directly to this virtually untouched corner of the planet. The ship itself is one of the most comfortable and luxurious available. Complete with modern amenities, balcony suites, and an elegant dining hall. Keep your eyes peeled for the variety of seabirds and sea life that flock to and surround the island. When you disembark, enjoy a period during which you are free to explore the islands at your leisure.

3. Antarctica Cruises

When most people think of South America cruises, they think of cruises that will take them through the lush rainforests of the Amazon. However, there is also Antarctica, affectionately known as the land of ice. An example of an Antarctica cruise begins on King George Island,  which is a two-hour flight from Punta Arenas. Once you arrive, be greeted by a cruise representative, and begin your eight-day glacier-filled adventure. Because the weather is so unpredictable in the arctic, every cruise itinerary looks different.

During your Antarctica cruise, visit one or several of the South Shetland Islands, which include Paradise Bay, Lemaire Channel or Petermann Island, to name a few. If you’re lucky when you disembark you’ll be greeted by a Emperor or Macaroni penguin colony. While there is a no-touch policy, if you stay still, they may come up to you to take a picture!  Charismatic sea elephants are also abundant in this region. They are very recognisable because of their trunk-like inflatable snouts.

4. Patagonia Cruises

Some of the most popular cruises in South America are Patagonia cruises. These cruises take you to the “uttermost end of the earth.” Where you will be privy to some of the most spectacular sites on this planet. If you elect for the Ushuaia – Punta Arenas route, you will travel through the Strait of Magellan and Beagle Channel. The stops made are at preserved sites such as Cape Horn, Pia Glacier, De Agostini Sound, and Magdalena Island. Each stop offers a unique experience that you will be hard-pressed to find elsewhere.

For instance, when you stop at Wulaia Bay on the Cap, you will walk in the same footsteps as Charles Darwin. As well as have the opportunity to explore the home of the region’s largest aboriginal settlements. At Pia Glacier, a team of experienced hikers will lead you to Garibaldi Fjord.

Contact a South America Cruise Expert 

South America has so much to offer, and sometimes the best way to explore a region is by cruise. Book your custom South America cruise to explore all the region has to offer.

Planning a Trip to Patagonia

Have you ever wondered how to plan a trip to Patagonia? Patagonia encompasses the vast southernmost tip of South America, shared by Argentina and Chile, with the Andes Mountains as its dividing line. The Argentine side features arid steppes, grasslands, and deserts, while the Chilean boasts glacial fjords and temperate rainforest. Visiting this beautiful region is a fantastic idea. Patagonia offers incredible landscapes, glaciers, hikes, and cuisine. However, planning a trip to Patagonia can be stressful sometimes. Though there is a lot of information online, not all of it is reliable.

As an expert Travel Consultant, I receive many questions about Patagonia trip planning due to it’s difficult to figure out logistics and distances between destinations. It’s not easy for the traveler to figure out alone when to embark on a Patagonia tour and what to do while there. Therefore, I would like to share some tips that will help with your Patagonia trip planning.

1. Plan Your Trip to Patagonia In Advance

First on our list of tips for Patagonia trip planning is to book in advance. Patagonia is one of the most visited destinations in South America. Especially between mid-November and late March, which are the best times to visit Patagonia. Generally, within these months, you can travel with ideal weather conditions, and enjoy the lakes and rivers.  Since the season is relatively short, it is imperative to start planning in advance. Especially if you’re planning on seeing remote destinations where resources are limited like Torres Del Paine National Park.

Chances of finding accommodation inside the National Park turns into a worldwide competition as November (peak season) approaches. International travelers begin to reserve the remaining available space in the Patagonia lodges and cruises. That’s why I recommend starting to plan your Patagonia trip far in advance so that you can secure the type of accommodations you prefer without any hassle!

2. Decide How You’d Like to Explore Patagonia

Choosing to visit Patagonia is easy; choosing how to visit Patagonia can be a bit more tricky. Consider the benefits of a Patagonia cruise vs. a Patagonia land package. Land packages are a fantastic option for the adventurous traveler. During a land package trip, travelers can hike all day in one of the national parks, and then return to the comfort of their lodge for the evening.

Patagonia cruises are a wonderful option if you want to explore the depths of the region without having to necessarily put in the physical effort. Most Patagonia cruises leave from Ushuaia or Punta Arenas and take you to Cape Horn, through icy fjords, and past massive glaciers. It is important to decide how you would like to explore Patagonia before booking your trip – however, no matter what you choose, it is sure to be a memorable experience!

3. Get Help with Patagonia Trip Planning Logistics

Third on our list of Patagonia trip planning tips is to understand the logistics. It’s important to know that Patagonia is shared between Chile and Argentina. Many people often start marking destinations in Patagonia without realizing that these destinations are in two different countries. For that reason, you may have to cross the border multiple times during your trip and that is where traveling to Patagonia can get complicated. There are not many international flights between Chile and Argentina unless you are traveling from Buenos Aires or Santiago de Chile.

Therefore, land transfers (private transfers, shuttles, and buses) are recommended. Though, land transfers can be longer than most imagine, once you consider road conditions, border crossing, and scenic stops on the way.

For that reason, I strongly encourage contacting an expert Travel Consultant who can arrange all the logistics of your Patagonia trip for you. That way you don’t need to worry about figuring out all the complicated tasks of traveling from Argentine Patagonia to Chilean Patagonia and vice versa. With a trusted Travel Expert, you’ll have all the information and help you need to plan a seamless Patagonia tour.

4. Keep Your Itinerary Flexible

There are many reasons to plan a flexible trip to Patagonia. First of all, Patagonia is all about nature. Everywhere you look, the landscapes and wildlife will amaze you. To fully enjoy the beauties of nature, it’s imperative that you are not rushing from one place to another.

Second, many people travel a long way to visit Patagonia and want to experience as much as possible. However, you don’t want to have too tight of a schedule. For example, you need time on your side when you’re combining a Patagonian cruise with a stay at a Patagonia lodge. I recommend being at the destination in Patagonia for your cruise departure, a day before actually departing. That way, you’ll have no chance of missing your cruise (which can happen if you schedule flights the same day).

5.  Bring Some Cash With You to Patagonia

It’s important to know about money in Patagonia. Many hotels and restaurants will accept credit or debit cards.  However, it is advised to have some cash with you as well just in case. Some small local businesses, souvenir shops, and kiosks may not accept credit or debit cards. In some destinations in Patagonia, it can be hard to find an ATM. Or even if you find ATM, it can be out of cash. It is better to take out some cash in the big cities beforehand. Find more of these Patagonia travel tips from our downloadable Essential Patagonia Ebook.

6. Pack Wisely for Patagonia Weather Conditions

As I mentioned before, the weather in Patagonia can be tricky, so your packing list for Patagonia is important. My Recommended Packing list for Patagonia:

• A light rain jacket (especially if you are traveling between November to March or else a heavy coat)
• Sunscreen
• A hat
• Sturdy walking shoes
• A small bag for carrying essentials such as a water bottle or snacks
• A warm, small hoodie
• Swimwear

The last bullet point (swimwear) might shock you. Even if you are traveling during Patagonia’s winter, don’t forget to bring your swimwear. Patagonia has very nice cozy hotels that offer heated indoor pools and spas. And, of course, in the summertime, you can enjoy the lake and its beaches.

7. Respect the Nature in Patagonia

Patagonia offers beautiful national parks, forests, lakes, ocean, and mountains which are home to many species. It is our duty to protect them and create a sustainable environment for our friends.

Listen to your guides and don’t forget to read the warnings at the entrance of the treks. Some simple rules to remember are: do
not make fires, do not leave your trash in the forest, and try to leave a minimum carbon footprint. That way, the Patagonia region can survive for many years, decades, and generations yet to come. Are you ready to start planning a stress-free trip to Patagonia? Check out our sample Patagonia tour itineraries or contact a Travel Consultant directly.

What Are the Best Places in Patagonia for Seniors?

There are plenty of places perfect in Patagonia for senior travelers. Patagonia doesn’t discriminate in any way, and especially not with age. Instead, Patagonia welcomes all visitors (and animals!) to its one-of-a-kind terrain, full of open valleys, rare wildlife, and inviting trails. While, yes, certain places in Patagonia require long, physically demanding excursions to see the iconic sites, there are also plenty of Patagonia tour options that are less daunting for seniors and older travelers. Here is our list of the best places in Patagonia for seniors.

1. Ushuaia

Ushuaia is an excellent place for seniors, as it is one of the main spots where cruises embark on a Patagonia adventure. Travelers can stay in the charming town of Ushuaia for a day or two, and enjoy some of the city’s excursions. Explore the port and waterfront, museums, restaurants, and boutiques in town. Then, set out on a Patagonia cruise. Exploration Patagonia cruises combine adventure with luxury and are perfect for older travelers looking to avoid the hassle of hiking and trekking to see sites. Aboard a Patagonia cruise, sail through ice fjords, and discover the unique landscapes that Patagonia has to offer while you Visit Argentina.

Australis Cruise Patagonia

One of our top picks for Patagonia cruises for seniors is the Australis cruise. This cruise line operates many Patagonia routes starting in Ushuaia. Aboard the Australis, guests have the flexibility to stay in the comfort of their private cabin. Observe the views from the deck, or disembark for land excursions. Whether passengers choose to disembark or not, the vistas of the southern fjords and glossy glaciers will be available to all.

Australis cruises typically have passengers begin in Ushuaia and end in Punta Arenas Chile (with the option to do the reverse route). Though, Patagonia for older travelers does not necessarily need to finish in Punta Arenas Chile. From Punta Arenas, we encourage guests to continue their journey throughout Patagonia with a trip to Torres del Paine when you Visit Chile.

2. Torres del Paine

Torres del Paine is a great place for seniors because they have plenty of hotels and lodging options. Patagonia lodges are ideal for senior travelers, due to their varied, hands-on guided hikes and tours. At many Patagonia Lodges, local guides will get to know their visitors before taking them out on a specific excursion. This is valuable for older travelers who need the opportunity to explain their physical capabilities. Think of these as escorted tours of Patagonia. Wherever your comfort level lies, the experienced guides will be sure to meet those expectations.

Hotel Las Torres Patagonia

We advise our older clients to stay at Hotel Las Torres, where choosing your own adventure is encouraged! This cozy, 4-star hotel offers a long list of excursions for guests to participate in depending on their level of fitness. Activities vary from hiking and walking, to boat rides in front of massive glaciers, to scenic vehicle tours. That’s right! Vans are available for those who want to see the wild landscape of Torres del Paine without a strenuous hike.

Awasi Patagonia

Awasi is another lodge we encourage older travelers to consider when traveling to Patagonia. At Awasi, you can enjoy an isolated, private villa instead of a traditional hotel room. Each villa is assigned with a private guide, so travelers can explore Patagonia at their own pace. Though, with the inspiring views of the forest, Lake Sarmiento, the pampas, and Torres del Paine, it may be hard to leave.

3. El Calafate

In addition to Torres del Paine, El Calafate is another ideal place for seniors to find superior Patagonia lodging. For example, the 5-star Eolo Lodge is the epitome of a luxury adventure. The hotel is conveniently located halfway between El Calafate and Los Glaciares National Park. However, due to its privately owned land, Eolo remains far enough from the tourist-filled areas of Patagonia, which leaves older travelers with a tranquil environment to enjoy. While here, travelers should speak with an experienced guide on-site about what excursions would be best suited for them. Choices of activities consist of horseback riding, mountain bike riding, trekking, bird watching, and stargazing. Ultimately, it’s up to the traveler to choose which excursions would be most enjoyable. This system is designed to accommodate anyone, as all tours and excursions can be completely customized depending on the traveler’s needs.

4. Bariloche & The Lake District

Bariloche and the Lake District of Argentina offer great Patagonia tours for seniors. San Carlos de Bariloche is located in the Lake District of Argentina, with the city surrounded by the striking Andes and sparkling high alpine lakes.

There is a large variety of outdoor activities here, such as skiing, trekking, and bike riding. Though, if a relaxing walk is what your body desires, Bariloche is perfect for that as well. Choosing to go on a walk gives you the opportunity to stroll around this German-influenced, charming town and browse the nearby chocolate shops, boutiques, restaurants, and cafes.

After exploring the town, travelers should embark on an Argentina to Chile lake crossing. This is a memorable circular trip, ideal for seniors looking to experience all of northern Argentina’s Lake District. On this route, travel along the Seven Lakes Route, cross the Andes towards Pucon, spot the Villarica Volcano, and of course, enjoy incredible vistas of the lakes of Argentina.

At SouthAmerica.travel, our Patagonia treks, trips, and tours are great South America vacations for seniors. All of our tour itineraries can be completely customized to fit any traveler’s style and needs. Guided treks can be cut short, without compromising the sightseeing, due to any person’s mobility. If you’re looking for more information on the best places in Patagonia for seniors, contact one of our expert Travel Consultants today!

Before we start this article of What is Patagonia Famous for, try to imagine this for a minute: Mesmerizing Coasts, dense forests, spectacular glaciers and wonderful wildlife – Patagonia’s captured your attention, but where to start? We’ve shortlisted the best highlights of Patagonia for you and answered a very common question every traveler may have: What is Patagonia Famous for? Come explore Patagonia as we uncover facts about Patagonia, Things to do in Patagonia, Best Hikes in Patagonia, Must see destinations in Patagonia and more!

First things first, where is Patagonia?

Patagonia is a distinct geographical region at end tip of South America, covering the lower sections of Argentina and Chile. On the Argentine side, it starts in the province of Rio Negro and expands all the way to Tierra Del Fuego. On the Chilean side, it starts in the Araucanía region extending towards the extreme southern tip of the country.

• Patagonia spans a massive 1,043,076 km squared. It occupies almost half of each country and yet is home to less than 2 million inhabitants.
• The Patagonian region is home to six national parks.
• Near the city of Esquel in Argentina, you can find the second oldest living species here, the 2,600 years old Alerces Tree.
• The total population of Patagonia is about 2 million and the official language of Patagonia is Spanish.
• Most of the time, Patagonia is within one or two hours of USA EST.
• The summer season in Patagonia runs from December to March.

Now that we have explored Where is Patagonia, Facts about Patagonia and Patagonia Map, let us discover What is Patagonia Famous for. First up on our list is..

#1. Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glacier National Park, El Calafate

#2. El Chalten and Mt Fitz Roy

#3. Torres Del Paine National Park

#3. Puerto Madryn 

#4. Tierra del Fuego and Ushuaia

#5. EcoCamp

But wait! Here are few more things on our list of What is Patagonia Famous for!

#6. Cueva de las Manos

#7. Dinosaur route

The Dinosaur route in northwest Patagonia is one of the many reasons why Patagonia is famous. In the Chubut region, archaeologists have found the largest ever dinosaur fossils, measuring 42m in length and weighing 76 tons, buried in this region’s red-rock badlands.

#8. Punta Tombo

 #9. Ruta 40 or Carretera Austral

Did You Love Learning All About What Is Brazil Famous For? Stay Up-To-Date With All The Latest South American News By Visiting Our Blog!

Planning Your Own Journey To Patagonia?

Send Us An Email Or Give Us A Call Today And Plan Your Dream Patagonian Holiday!

List of What is Argentina famous for?

Argentina is the third most populous country in South America and one of the largest Spanish speaking country in the world. From the distinct and beautiful landscapes of Patagonia to the rich and artsy culture of Buenos Aires, there are plenty of reasons why people from around the world have Argentina on their bucket list. But, what is Argentina famous for?  In this article, we explore just that. From facts about Argentina food, to what the culture of Argentina is, as well as interesting facts about Argentina for both kids and adults! So follow along with us and explore just why you should plan an Argentina Vacation soon!

Here we go!

#10: Tango

#9: Gauchos

#8: Art

#7: Wine

#6: Soccer (Futbal)

But wait!

There are still 5 more AMAZING things on our list of What is Argentina Famous For?

#5: Steak

#4: Ushuaia – The End of the World

#3: Buenos Aires

#2: Iguazu Falls

Last up on our list of What is Argentina Famous For is, of course…

#1: Patagonia

That is not all!

Did you love learning all about What Argentina is Famous For? Stay up-to-date with all the latest South American News by visiting our blog!

Planning your own journey to Argentina?

Send us an email or give us a call today and plan your dream Argentine Holiday!

Travel Consultant, Clara Tort, recently went on the Spirit of the Glaciers, MarPatag Patagonia cruise. Follow along as she whisks us past glaciers, ice fields and pristine wild landscapes.

The Patagonian ice field is the largest ice concentration on the planet outside the Polar Regions. Its glaciers descend from 1,500 to 200 meters above sea level, creating a unique opportunity to enjoy some of the most spectacular views on the planet. Los Glaciares National Park combines magnificent forests, lakes, mountains, ice, and steppes with more than 200 glaciers. The three most famous glaciers are the Spegazzini with its face rising 135 meters above sea level, Upsala covering an entire valley with an approximate extension of 765 Km2, and a length of 52km, and Perito Moreno continuously moving forward and calving.

The MarPatag Patagonia Cruise Ship

Patagonia Tours & Cruises are the best way to experience what the icy terrain has to offer. The Spirit of Glaciers cruise is a three-day expedition that takes you to parts of Patagonia’s Lake Argentina that are unexplored and only accessible on this cruise. The elegant and exclusive M/V Santa Cruz vessel was specially designed for cruising past these glaciers. The ship offers the perfect combination of high-end comfort and spectacular cuisine creating incredible memories that will last a lifetime.  The cruise has 20 cabins with a maximum capacity of 40 people. Gourmet meals and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages with meals are included. Bilingual expert guides lead excursions and activities! Combine this cruise on our Patagonia Deluxe Tour feat. MarPatag Cruise >>

Day 1: Cocktail & Puesto de las Vacas

Begin your journey in Puerto Bandera, only a few kilometers from El Calafate. Every Tuesday and Friday from September to April, the cruise sets sail. Upon boarding, enjoy a welcome cocktail as the vessel departs towards Puesto de las Vacas. Puesto de las Vacas is a beautiful secluded shore where guests have the option to disembark and go for a short walk before dinner.  I recommend taking advantage of these shore landings to get a real feel for Patagonia. Read more >> Patagonia Cruises

Day 2: Spengazzini Glacier & Upsala Glacier

The next morning you will disembark for another morning hike towards an astonishing view of the Spegazzini Glacier. Snap some photos of the impressive glacier before heading back to the vessel. Enjoy lunch on the ship and continue sailing towards Upsala Glacier, the third-longest glacier in South America, and sadly, one of the most rapidly retreating glaciers. Take some photos of the glacier as it will likely be very different in the years to come. In the afternoon you will arrive in Bahia Toro. Go on a mild walk around the Patagonian forest, just before dinner on the ship. Read more >> Patagonia Adventure Tours

Day 3: Zodiac Excursion & Perito Moreno Glacier

The third day begins with a zodiac excursion to Mayo and Negro glaciers. Here is where you will see a glimpse into the Andean-Patagonian forest, unique to the region. The picturesque mountains and greenery capture all travelers. Return to the cruise so you can get ready for the main event. Enjoy lunch as you approach the greatest attraction in the National Park: Perito Moreno Glacier. Disembark from the ship and walk along the different catwalks to see a few of the impressive viewpoints of Perito Moreno.  Sit back and watch for calving and listen for the loud bang as the ice crashes into the water. In the afternoon board the vessel and return to Puerto Bandera, finishing the three-day glacier adventure. For the ultimate Patagonia experience, combine the Spirit of the Glaciers Patagonia Cruise on our Patagonia Deluxe Tour >> Ultimate Patagonia Experience | Patagonia Deluxe Tour >>

Packing Tips for the MarPatag Patagonia Cruise

• warm jacket
• waterproof jacket
• sunscreen
• sunglasses
• hiking boots
• hat & gloves
• small day pack
• water bottle

Are you ready to book the MarPatag Patagonia Cruise to see Argentina’s most beautiful glaciers? Call us today! Any of our expert Travel Consultants would be happy to help you plan your dream Patagonia cruise. Get a quote for this cruise and additional tours in Patagonia today!

]]> https://www.southamerica.travel/patagonia/news/marpatag-patagonia-cruise/feed 0 https://www.southamerica.travel/argentina/peninsula-valdes-tours/news/whale-watching-peninsula-valdes https://www.southamerica.travel/argentina/peninsula-valdes-tours/news/whale-watching-peninsula-valdes#respond Thu, 23 Feb 2017 00:00:00 +0000 http://sat.829prod.com/whale-watching-peninsula-valdes/ Last updated on October 15th, 2020 at 09:47 am

Whale Watching in Peninsula Valdes, Argentina

Travel Consultant, Sean McBride, recently went on a trip to the Peninsula Valdes Argentina in search of the southern right whale. Follow Sean’s journey along the coast of Argentina and find out if he saw these majestic whales.

Tourist season in Peninsula Valdes (Puerto Madryn) ultimately coincides with the migratory patterns of the southern right whale.  Years ago, the mammal’s curious nature made them the “right” whale to hunt.  By offering themselves to the marauding fleets, the unfortunate whales offered high rewards with minimal risk for those hoping to strike riches in the unforgiving southern oceans. Characteristics that once led to the near extinction of these gentle giants now contribute to their livelihood as the focus has shifted from exploitation to admiration. With the southern right whale population increasing by about 7% every year, now is the best time to see the 2000+ whales migrating to the waters of Golfo Nuevo. 

My journey to Puerto Madryn began in July. I decided to join a group of scuba divers that planned to dive into the whale-filled waters of Golfo Nuevo in August. Being somewhat of a whale enthusiast, the allure of sharing the ocean with a modern-day aquatic dinosaur proved too perfect. After completing my open water diving course in Buenos Aires, I was ready for my journey to the frigid winter waters of Patagonia.

Getting to Peninsula Valdes

The starting point for any visit to Peninsula Valdes Argentina starts in the city of Puerto Madryn.  The Trelew airport services Puerto Madryn and is a short 2-hour flight from Buenos Aires. Upon takeoff, I watched as the lush greens of the Pampas gave way to the arid brown scrub of Patagonia.  And as we neared Peninsula Valdes, I was shocked to see the size of the peninsula as it juts out into the Southern Atlantic. Surrounded by pristine waters and the promise of mega-fauna, my squinting eyes scanned the waters with unrealistic optimism for the dark shadows that might indicate the presence of a southern right whale.

I waltzed through the small regional airport of Trelew with minimal fuss and traveled by ”Combi” Mini-bus to Puerto Madryn about 50 minutes north. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town of Puerto Madryn sits on the westernmost reaches of Golfo Nuevo with a beach that stretches north toward Peninsula Valdes. Very much aware of its assets, Puerto Madryn is heavily geared toward tourism with quality hotels in all categories and a variety of bars and restaurants that line the waterfront. 

View Tours >> Puerto Madryn

Wildlife in Peninsula Valdes

A mecca for wildlife with elephant seals, sea lions, penguins, dolphins, and seabirds all migrating to the region at different times of the year one can explore many highlights no matter when they visit.  For those visiting the area between late February and the end of April, you can observe orcas at the North Eastern end of Peninsula Valdes.

Whale Watching by Land vs. by Sea

Before arriving in Puerto Madryn, I had harbored concerns that catching sight of whales swimming within the enormity of the Golfo Nuevo might prove difficult. As soon as I arrived at the beach of Puerto Madryn, such fears were entirely quashed. I saw as many as ten whales at one point, all visible from the shoreline. I sat and enjoyed their acrobatic show of fluke slapping, breaching, and fin sailing. 

There are some whales watching tours to choose from, all of which leave from both Puerto Madryn and the Peninsula Valdes and range from 1 to 8 hours.  Multiple sightings are nearly guaranteed, and whales often swim alongside ships for a few minutes. Undoubtedly the crowning jewel of the region’s whale watching fleet is the Yellow Submarine. An engineering masterstroke, the Yellow Submarine, inverts the concept of a fishbowl by having a specially designed hull that extends downward into the water and allows passengers to observe whales through windows that run along the ship’s subaquatic sides. The upper deck will enable passengers to see whales by more traditional means; however, down below is where one can enjoy a truly unique and much more complete whale watching experience. 

A sophisticated and cultured predator, the orcas of the region, perform a hunting technique that is unique to only this small corner of the world. From the beach, visitors can observe the orcas darting from the surf onto the beach in dramatic bursts to snatch seals from the shoreline. This incredible display of cultured predation is not for the squeamish as attacks can be quite bloody and is a far cry from the traditional perception of the orca as being some sort of cuddly sea panda. None the less, this is an excellent opportunity for nature lovers lucky enough to witness something truly unique in the natural world.

After observing the whales from the vessel and shore, I started my diving excursion. I completed 4-dives over two days and was fortunate enough to swim through the hull of a wreck where I saw several sea lions.  Although I did not see a whale while I was diving, I still enjoyed the wildlife and pristine ocean.

Punto Tombo Penguin Colony

The Punta Tombo penguin colony is located south of Puerto Madryn. There are daily excursions to the colony, allowing visitors to observe the Magellanic Penguins up close in their natural habitat. While the physical attributes of the Magellanic penguin enable it to dart through the water with streamlined ease, their high center of gravity and tiny legs make walking on land adorably awkward. Watch the penguins waddle as they scurry across the stony shore amongst a raucous crowd of black and white. Tours are full-day with several more highlights along the way, including a visit to a Paleontological Museum.

Punta Lomo Seal Colony

A 20-minute ride south crisscrossing past Chubut Province takes you to the Punta Lomo Seal Colony. There is a vantage point above the cliff that overlooks the seal-filled beach where visitors can see the region’s permanent seal colonies. 

Read more >> Best Times to Visit Argentina. 

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Seamlessly combine any SouthAmerica.travel tour with a whale-watching trip in Puerto Madryn.

Patagonia’s remarkable beauty and expansive wilderness attract adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. If you have found yourself drawn to this remote region, chances are you will spend a few days exploring El Calafate. El Calafate is an excellent starting point for any of our Patagonia tours, especially if you’re thinking about a trip to Torres Del Paine, El Chaltén, or Los Glaciares National Park. The town of El Calafate is most famous for its close proximity to Perito Moreno Glacier, which happens to be one of only three advancing glaciers left in the world. Read on for our recommendations on how best to spend your time in El Calafate.

1. Tour the Perito Moreno Glacier

A trip to Patagonia would not be complete without a visit to El Calafate to see the world-famous Perito Moreno Glacier.  Perito Moreno is the most impressive glacier in the region with a front stretching 5 km long and 60 meters above the water, this is larger than the city of Buenos Aires and five times the size of Manhattan! Since 1970, Perito Moreno has been what they call a “stable glacier,” meaning that it is neither advancing nor retreating.  On average, it moves roughly 2 meters a day.

Because it is a moving glacier, every 4-5 years it reaches the opposing Magellan Peninsula, forming a dam that prevents the arm of the Brazo Rico from draining into the Brazo Sur to Lago Argentino. When this happens, water continues to seep under the glacier putting a tremendous amount of pressure on the base and eventually forms a little passage (as pictured to the right). As the glacier continues to advance, the passageway ultimately fractures. This spectacular natural phenomenon recently occurred in March of 2016.

Perito Moreno Glacier Itineraries

There are plenty of different tours to see Perito Moreno Glacier including; a walking tour, a glacier trekking excursion, or even a boat tour that takes you to the face of the glacier. Regardless of what you decide to do, Perito Moreno Glacier is sure to leave you speechless. Most tours depart from El Calafate around 8 AM and last between 8-12 hours.  Typically tour companies pick you up from your hotel in the morning and drop you off in the evening. That means you’ll need at least two nights in El Calafate.

Nautical Safari

I went on the Nautical Safari during my visit to Perito Moreno Glacier. I recommend leaving from Bajo de las Sombras Pier, located about 6 km from the glacier lookout point. This route takes you to the other side of the glacier. The boat ride lasts about 1-hour and provides plenty of opportunities to capture the perfect photo. Each photo gets better and better as you move closer to the glacier.

Mini Trekking

If you are an adventure seeker, it’s hard to beat walking on Perito Moreno Glacier. The mini trekking combines the Nautical Safari experience with glacier trekking. First, you will take a short boat ride towards the glacier. From there, you’ll have a short 30-minute walk to the glacier.

The guides will explain how to walk on the glacier, how to use your crampons, the glacier’s origin, and the flora and fauna of the region. You spend about 2-hours trekking on the glacier, frequently stopping to take photos of the rivers and deep crevasses on the glacier. The spectacular blue colors you see are a mere reflection of the sun, in reality, the glacier is, in fact, white. Make sure to bring sunglasses and wear extra sunscreen to protect yourself from the intense sun rays reflecting off the glacier.

Walk along the catwalks

Typically people combine the Nautical Safari and the Catwalks into one tour.  The Catwalks provide endless photo opportunities to see the front of the glacier.  Here you will have the opportunity to enjoy lunch at the cafeteria, but I recommend eating outside where you can enjoy a good view of the glacier. Sit on one of the benches and look for ice chunks calving from the glacier.

2. Visit the Glaciarium Ice Museum

The Glaciarium is a beautiful museum right outside of town. If you haven’t visited Perito Moreno Glacier, you might not realize, the structure was designed to look like the face of a glacier.  Visit the different exhibits and learn about the environmental impact we have seen on the glaciers. Go into the screening room for a short 10-minute documentary to learn about the glaciers in Patagonia. The museum is open from 9 am–8 pm during the tourist season and 11 am-8 pm during the winter months from May to August. To get to the Ice Museum, you can take a free shuttle from the Provincial Tourism office in town. Buses depart about every hour.

3. Have a drink at the Yeti Ice Bar or Glacio Bar

There are two ice bars in El Calafate, one at the Ice Museum and the other in town. Here you can enjoy a drink in a glass made entirely of ice from Perito Moreno Glacier. The signature cocktail is the “Calafate” – go figure – which is Fernet Branca, amaretto, pineapple juice, and Calafate berry liquor. The bar is -10° C (14° F), so they give you a special coat before entering, but you cannot spend more than 20-minutes in the bar due to the cold temperature. The bar is open from 11 am–8 pm every day and has a maximum capacity of 25 people, so there may be a wait.

Where to Eat in El Calafate

La Tablita

No visit to El Calafate would be complete without trying the local specialty, the Patagonian lamb.  La Tablita is one of the best restaurants in town and has glowing reviews. I highly recommend ordering the Patagonian Lamb for the table as the main course and sharing a few side dishes. You can get the parrilla, a grilled assortment of meat and chicken, but we recommend the lamb. Ask your hotel to make a reservation in advance.

Ovejitas de la Patagonia

For dessert, stop by any local ice cream shop and try the special El Calafate berry ice cream. Rumor has it, if you eat the Calafate berries you will return to El Calafate one day.

Hotels in El Calafate

Eolo Lodge

Enjoy a private and unique experience at this 5-star lodge that embodies the spirit of Patagonia.

Mirador del Lago

Overlooking the beautiful Redonda Bay, this 4-star lodge is within walking distance of El Calafate downtown.

Hotel Kau Yatun

This 3-star hotel is in the foothills of the Patagonia steppe. It offers outdoor adventures and accommodations that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Recommended El Calafate Tours

El Calafate & El Chalten Patagonia Eco Tour

Completely immerse yourself in Patagonia on this 7-day tour. Stay at a traditional estancia where you can and feel the solitude of Patagonia while reconnecting with nature.

Very Best of Argentina

This tour combines the best in Argentina, not only do you see the mountains of Patagonia, but you visit the capital city of Buenos Aires, Iguassu Falls, and Argentina’s Lake District.

Torres del Paine & Calafate Tour

Combine the two best highlights of Chile and Argentina’s Patagonia region on the ultimate adventure to Torres del Paine National Park and Los Glaciares National Park.

Adventure of Terry and Sue in South America 

SouthAmerica.travel clients Terry & Sue recently explored the Southern Cone of South America on a trip that included a Patagonia cruise and time spent in Argentina, Chile and Uruguay. Please enjoy the daily accounts of their adventures, as chronicled by Sue, who also took many lovely pictures. A huge thanks to Sue from her Travel Consultant Jennifer and all of us here at SouthAmerica.travel. Santiago, Chile – We went on a 3-hour city tour. Our guide was great. Santiago is a beautiful city with old and new architecture mixed in together. There are 16 million people living in Chile and 6 million of them live in Santiago. There is a huge super mall on the bottom 6 floors of the 80-story building (Gran Torre) — the tallest skyscraper in South America. The people in Santiago seem successful and prosperous. Valparaiso and Viña del Mar – We drove to Valparaiso and Viña del Mar today. Along the way were vineyards galore. Of course we stopped at one for some wine tasting. We are enjoying Chilean wines! We hear that Chile is the land of earthquakes. Supposedly they have them daily but so small you can’t always feel them. Glad they warned us. They are due for a big one in about 20 years. The highways are every bit as modern as the ones in the US but they are not under construction. Chile is the world’s largest producer of copper and has only been a democratic government for about 15 years. They have a female president and they love her. Cool. Everywhere you look seems to be very prosperous, clean and friendly. It’s a happy country and friendly to Americans, though not many speak English. We order our food by pointing out the pictures. We had empanadas for lunch. Delicious! Valparaiso is an artist community. Every building is painted bright colors and many of them are painted in beautiful graffiti. It is everywhere. Viña del Mar is a community built on the beach. Reminds me of Laguna Beach in California with palm trees, bougainvillea and wonderful walkways to view the ocean. Very windy though. Saw a cool red and white lighthouse. I do like lighthouses. Patagonia – After a few hours of driving we heard mooing. Cows of all shapes and sizes covered the road. It was amazing to watch the cowboys and dogs keep them all together and moving. We saw lots of wildlife on the way to the ranch–pink flamingos, Eagles, Chilean ducks, ostriches, and Guanacos (looks like a llama). So cute to watch the babies playing and running around. There were hundreds of them like herds of deer. The whole way to the ranch we noticed that it was terribly windy but didn’t know how bad it really was until we started to get out of the car and the driver asked us to wait so that he could hold the door from being torn off. I guess it was like 80 mile an hour gusts. Torres del Paine – It’s very windy here. They say it’s like that everyday but not the gusts we had yesterday and all night. The weather changes from minute to minute here. We had raindrops, sunshine and coolness throughout the day. We saw 4 Condors flying above a Guanaco carcass. There are many Pumas here as well. There are many activities to choose from like backpacking, camping, rock climbing, walking trails, horseback riding (they have 250 horses that they let graze freely on the ranch in the afternoon when they get back from their rides). They are beauties too. We are going for a half-day ride tomorrow followed by a massage. We woke to a beautiful sunrise this morning at 5:15. We left the ranch for a photo excursion at 9:00. The Blue Lagoon is one of the many bright blue lakes in the park. Behind the lake is Paine Massif and some granite spires. They came out of the clouds near the end of our excursion — really beautiful. Trail Ride in Patagonia – We woke to cold foggy rain. By the time we began our trail ride it had stopped raining. My horse was not comfortable going through some of the streams and rivers and had to be coaxed in. I don’t really blame him since it was very rocky, slippery and nearly up to his belly. I had to lift my feet so they wouldn’t get wet. It was glacier water. It is not windy today but still glad I had my scarf and gloves. Our young Gaucho would scout ahead and choose the best places for river crossings, etc. the rivers had white water rapids and it made me a bit wary as well. I have so many beautiful horse pictures. It was absolutely gorgeous and very different landscapes like we have never seen before. We might try another ride tomorrow after we take our hike. All our pictures were taken while riding. I spotted a red fox last night near the dining hall when I went out to watch them turn out the horses for the night. Someone from the kitchen was feeding him roasted lamb through the kitchen window. He hung around for quite a while and wasn’t worried about us getting close. Funny since there are signs everywhere that say not to feed the wildlife. Last Day at the Ranch – Our 3 hour hike turned into 4 1/2. Our guide was great — from Canada but her parents from Chile. She moved here after graduation and loves it here. We were the only two that signed up for this trip so it was nice to have a guide who speaks really good English all to ourselves. This ranch is big — thousands of acres and it connects to a national park so it’s hard to tell where one ends and the other begins. It is sunny, not warm but not windy. We saw lots of destruction from a fire. All fires here are man made. They have no thunder and lightening. A camper knocked over his stove. The destruction was massive and will take many years to recover. It has been 5 years now and there seems no growth on the trees yet. The day is warm and sunny but conditions change rapidly here. This is early summer and the wild flowers are just beginning to bloom. Our guide pointed out tiny orchids growing near the path in many colors. Such different beauty everywhere you look. Each trail, excursion and hike has such a variety of plants and landscape. Travel to Punta Arenas – We left the ranch early this morning for a long 5 hour drive, but stopped a few times for photos. We passed the same cattle herd that we passed 4 days ago. They were going to the ranch we just left. The older gauchos sure looked weather beaten but I have to say that the wind in Patagonia is brutal. We saw a group of about 15 Condors flying in the sky. People got out of their tour bus and walked across a field to get a shot of it. They were really far away and only specs in the sky. Still, to see so many is pretty unusual. Their wingspan is about 10 feet. We also saw a lot of Rheas. They look like a small ostrich and there were more than 15 of them. They are the second favorite food of Pumas. Their favorite is the Guanaco and we saw many remains to prove it. We were told that Pumas usually kill baby horses because they are always out in the open field, even in the winter. We arrived in Punta Arenas after lunch today. It is a very colorful town. We checked into the hotel and then had a tour of the town. Every house that you see with a red roof is owned by a Croatian. There is a big population of Croatians here. It sounds kinda weird, but our driver suggested we visit the local cemetery and it was really pretty interesting. Really haven’t seen a cemetery like it. There were many large family tombs and every gravesite was filled with colorful flowers. It is a place of laughter and celebration of those lost by their family members. We board the ship Stella Australis tomorrow for 5 days of travel through the passages Magellan discovered way back when. There will be penguins and glaciers and probably lots of wind. The Stella Australis – Punta Arenas is certainly a windy place. We are having gale winds. Kinda difficult on contact lens wearers. We checked out of our hotel at noon and checked in for our boat ride and left our suitcases there. We walked to the town square to see a demonstration of teachers asking for higher wages. Guess it’s the same anywhere. We missed most of the demo but got there in time to see all the national guard soldiers there. That was a bit shocking. Don’t know if they made them leave or what. We are hanging out at the local casino waiting for 5 o’clock boarding time. Would have loved to have just walked around town but the wind is miserable. Bus stations and other waiting areas have wind tubes. Very strange looking. We boarded the ship at 6 and was supposed to have a 6:30 depart but the harbor closed down because of the strong winds. We set sail a few hours later. We aren’t going great distances so should still get there in plenty of time. The Strait of Magellan – Very interesting day today. We learned that sometimes it’s not so good to travel light. We knew there might be some rain but not what we had today. Guess we missed the memo to bring rain pants and boots. The good news is that we don’t have the terrible winds here that we had in Punta Arenas. We had two excursions off the ship by Zodiac into nesting areas of penguins and Cormorants — both very cute. The weather wasn’t too bad then except for some light rain. However, the excursion this afternoon was pretty miserable with almost constant sleeting rain and lots of slippery mud. I was very surprised that we tromped through the tender Spring vegetation in front of the Glacier Martinelli. There are about 150 people on this trip from 17 different countries. It’s pretty amazing how many languages the crew speaks. Many of them are scientists or ecologists and seem very knowledgeable about glaciers and the fauna. We have daily presentations as well as talks during the excursions. At the end of our walk today on the beach, they served us hot chocolate and sodas with scotch. That warmed us up for the ride back to the boat. A group of Dolphins have been following us. They sure are fun to watch swim. The Beagle Channel – We had a nice surprise last night when we went back to our room after dinner. There was a big bottle of Champaign and snacks left in our room from the captain. We found out this morning that we were suggested as recipients from the head tour guide, Mauricio. We met Mauricio the first day on the ship. It turns out that he spent the last two years of high school in Bellevue, Washington and has very fond memories of Washington. We will be visiting the Pia Glacier today. Mauricio gave a historical talk this morning on the area we are visiting today. We are following Magellan and Darwin’s travels. The channel is named for Darwin’s ship (not his dog). The average rainfall here is about 30 inches. Pleasantly, it is not raining now and hopefully will be a dry outing this afternoon. We haven’t seen another ship or people outside our ship since we sailed. We traveled through Glacier Alley this evening. Pretty amazing. There are so many glaciers it was hard to keep them straight, partly because the crew made it a party and served food and drinks for each Glacier. I think there were six of them. The first one, Pia Glacier we actually got to hike up close. It was stunning! Cape Horn – We were warned that getting off the boat might not be possible because of the wind and waves but our luck held and it was a bright sunny day –for a short while. There is a lighthouse here and every year Chile has a contest for a family to live here for a year and work at the lighthouse. I was hoping to talk to the family to get their impressions but we only saw a teenage girl and she didn’t speak any English. I can tell you that I would not want to spend a year here. I also can’t imagine any teenager wanting to stay here either — no television, wi-fi internet, cell service, shopping, friends or school. Hope they like to read. Our ship visits two times a week during the summer season, which is about December through June. Cape Horn is the gateway to Antarctica and the southern-most point in South America, at the extreme tip of Chile. We saw lots of seals but from the Zodiac. They didn’t look very friendly and, whew, the smell was not so good. This is the last day for our cruise. We have nothing but compliments for the ship and crew but will be glad to get back to land. Ushuaia, Argentina We docked in Ushuaia last night around midnight. After farewells to our ship friends this morning after breakfast, we were picked up by our guide. Ushuaia is an island that seemed to be a perfect location for a prison as it was thought to be inescapable much like Alcatraz. There was really no place for them to escape to. They brought in the prisoners and had them build a railroad and the prison itself. They chopped down hundreds of trees leaving none for reseeding, so they haven’t come back. They call it a tree cemetery. There are just stumps everywhere. The prison is in the middle of downtown and now a museum. The best part of Ushuaia is the national park. We took a train ride through the park that was pretty cool and walked several of the trails. The train tracks were also built by the prisoners. On the ride we noticed over 100 wild horses. When ranch horses wandered onto the park land, the government claimed them for the park. They are beautiful horses but completely wild. The climate is a difficult one. There are only three species of trees that will grow in this climate. It has constant wind and always cold. Our guide told us that if you don’t like the climate here, wait 5 minutes and it will change. It’s true. We had wind, rain, and sunshine. He said it rains 300 days a year and had snow last week. Buenos Aires, Argentina – It is a beautiful sunny day today. We were able to get rid of our coats, gloves and scarves and switch to t-shirts. The Pink House is the equivalent to our White House. I think that is so funny. It’s a beautiful building at the end of their main town square. It has a fence around it but the fence is very close to the building. Doesn’t seem very secure for their president. There is scaffolding all around it today because this weekend is a big celebration of their democratic independence. The colorful buildings used to be a community of Italian immigrants that worked on the docks. They had nothing to build their houses with and used leftover metal and wood from the ships that came in as well as leftover paint. I think it turned out pretty neat. It is now a community of artists and craftsmen selling their handiwork. Very fun to see. The cemetery is very famous here and is where Eva Peron is buried. Her picture and memorials are all around the city. She is responsible for women getting to vote in this country as well as human rights for the common people, schools for poor children and hospitals for the poor. She was the wife of the president and is still considered the First Lady of Argentina. Just got back from the tango show and it was fabulous. Seriously, I don’t know how they keep from kicking each other. Their feet were moving so fast. It almost made Terry want to get out his dancing shoes and give it a try; however, I doubt that his feet will have the kind of precision they had. Colonia, Uruguay – We are in Colonia, Uruguay. It is a quaint little town. We are staying in the old part of the town at one of the old missions turned into a hotel. The weather is all of a sudden tropical. We are a little more than an hour from Buenos Aires yet it feels like 80+ degrees. Our room is pleasantly cool because the walls are more than a foot thick. I have never seen bigger hydrangeas in my life. The leaves are enormous. We arrived in Colonia by a huge hydrofoil. It was really old and more like a floating shopping mall than a ship. Colonia is across the Rio Del Platt. It is more than 40 miles wide in some areas making it the widest river in the world. Our guide told us that there are no homeless people in Uruguay. The unemployment is 2%. Education is free for all including college and graduate school. Parents only have to prove they have a job. Medical is also free to everyone and not just residents. Anyone from the U.S. could come here and go to school or college for free. First graders through high school students get a free laptop to bring home and keep while they go to school. Each home also has free Internet. This town has no traffic lights or streetlights, no crime and only 2 police officers. There is one problem though. There are so many parakeets nesting in the palm trees that it’s hard to hold a conversation at dinner. There are many street dogs here. They all seem to get along and go from restaurant to restaurant for leftovers and seem to be happy dogs. Punta del Este – Yesterday our guide and driver picked us up and drove with us to Punta del Este. You might have thought we were driving through Ohio. It was all farmland, very flat and green. It is sunny here and pleasantly warm but not hot. Punta del Este is a much bigger city than we thought. In fact there are high rises along the beach like there are in Miami. Punta del Este is on a peninsula with the river on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other side.

Need more stories of personal travel through South America? Check out our Traveler Tales blog posts, and stop by our Testimonials page on our main site to get the full scoop on what it’s like to explore the Southern Cone of South America, and the rest of this incredible continent, with SouthAmerica.travel.