13-DAY Best of Patagonia Tour From El Calafate to Ushuaia: Los Glaciares, Torres Del Paine and Tierra Del Fuego National Parks

Set out on a captivating 13-day journey through the stunning landscapes of Patagonia. This tour from El Calafate to Ushuaia promises an unforgettable adventure, immersing you in the natural wonders of Los Glaciares, Torres del Paine, and Tierra del Fuego National Parks. From up-close encounters with the Perito Moreno Glacier to scenic hikes and canoeing experiences, this comprehensive itinerary offers a perfect blend of organized activities and free time to soak in Patagonia’s breathtaking beauty. With comfortable accommodations and daily breakfasts included, this tour invites you to unveil the remarkable treasures that await.

Key Points

• This 13-day Patagonia tour explores the renowned national parks of Los Glaciares, Torres del Paine, and Tierra del Fuego, offering a comprehensive and diverse experience.
• Highlights include guided excursions to Perito Moreno Glacier, self-guided hikes in El Chaltén, and immersive activities in Torres del Paine and Tierra del Fuego National Parks.
• The itinerary combines organized activities with free time, allowing for a balanced exploration of Patagonia’s stunning landscapes, wildlife, and cultural offerings.
• The tour includes 12 nights of accommodation with daily breakfasts, as well as entrance fees to the featured national parks.
• With 36 reviews and an average rating of 4.5 stars, this tour is a highly-rated and well-received option for exploring the best of Patagonia.

Tour Duration and Highlights

The Best of Patagonia Tour is a comprehensive 13-day adventure that takes travelers from El Calafate to Ushuaia, exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Los Glaciares National Park, Torres del Paine, and Tierra del Fuego.

Highlights include guided tours, glacier-climbing, mountain hikes, and canoeing on rivers and lakes.

Travelers will enjoy 12 nights of accommodation with daily breakfasts included.

The tour covers a vast region, allowing participants to experience the diverse wonders of Patagonia, from the mighty Perito Moreno Glacier to the remote trails of Tierra del Fuego National Park.

Excursions in El Calafate

Arriving at Aeropuerto Internacional Comandante Armando Tola, travelers will begin their Best of Patagonia Tour in El Calafate.

On day 2, they’ll embark on a full-day guided excursion to Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the few advancing glaciers in the world. This boat tour offers a close-up view of the glacier’s mighty ice walls. For the adventurous, an optional glacier hike provides an opportunity to explore the glacier’s surface.

On the free day in El Calafate, travelers can independently explore the town’s scenic lakefront and charming shops. This mix of guided and leisure time allows for a well-rounded introduction to the Patagonian region.

Exploring El Chaltén

After exploring the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier in El Calafate, the tour moves on to the charming mountain town of El Chaltén.

This picturesque village serves as the gateway to the towering peaks of Cerro Torre and Mount Fitz Roy. Guests have the opportunity to embark on self-guided hikes to these iconic landmarks, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding rugged landscapes.

For those seeking a more leisurely experience, an optional boat tour is available, providing a unique perspective of the region.

The tour then returns to El Calafate, allowing travelers to reflect on the stunning natural beauty they’ve witnessed in this remarkable part of Patagonia.

Journey to Puerto Natales

Departing from the charming mountain town of El Calafate, the tour group sets their sights on the quaint port city of Puerto Natales, marking the next leg of their Patagonian adventure.

The journey takes them across the border into Chile, where they’ll spend a day exploring the highlights of Torres del Paine National Park. Guided excursions will lead them to Grey Lake and the Salto Grande waterfall, showcasing the park’s dramatic landscapes.

With optional upgrades available, some may choose to extend their experience with a navigation and walk on Magdalena Island.

The day concludes with a transfer to Punta Arenas, setting the stage for the final destination – the southernmost city of Ushuaia.

Discovering Torres Del Paine

On the eighth day of the tour, the group embarks on a full-day guided excursion to the renowned Torres del Paine National Park.

They’ll visit key highlights like the impressive Grey Lake and the thundering Salto Grande waterfall. Trekking through the park’s dramatic landscapes, they’ll witness the towering peaks of the Paine massif, the iconic granite towers that give the park its name.

The guide shares insights into the park’s diverse flora and fauna, including the guanaco, the region’s iconic camelid. Amidst the stunning natural beauty, the group takes in the park’s majesty and tranquility, an unforgettable day immersed in one of Patagonia’s crown jewels.

Crossing to Ushuaia

The bus departs from Puerto Natales, crossing the Strait of Magellan to reach the bustling city of Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world.

As the scenery transitions from the rugged landscapes of Torres del Paine to the remote Tierra del Fuego, travelers are treated to stunning vistas.

Upon arrival in Ushuaia, the tour explores the Tierra del Fuego National Park, where they’ll trek and paddle through the pristine wilderness, canoeing on the Lapataia River.

The final day includes a Beagle Channel cruise, offering breathtaking views of Ushuaia Bay and the opportunity to spot local wildlife.

With the tour’s combination of organized activities and free time, guests can fully enjoy the beauty of this remote Patagonian region.

Activities in Tierra Del Fuego

Travelers embark on a full-day trekking and paddling adventure in Tierra del Fuego National Park, one of the highlights of the tour.

They’ll explore the park’s lush forests, pristine lakes, and rugged landscapes by canoe, gliding along the Lapataia River. The paddling experience offers a chance to witness the region’s diverse wildlife, including sea lions, guanacos, and a variety of bird species.

On land, guided hikes through the park reveal panoramic vistas of the Beagle Channel and the Andes mountains.

This immersive experience in Tierra del Fuego allows travelers to fully appreciate the natural beauty and ecological richness of the southernmost national park in Argentina.

Additional Trip Information

Along With the guided tours and activities, the Best of Patagonia Tour offers a range of inclusions and additional considerations for travelers.

The tour includes 12 nights of accommodation with daily breakfasts, covering the journey from El Calafate to Ushuaia. Entrance fees to the national parks visited – Los Glaciares, Torres del Paine, and Tierra del Fuego – are also included, costing $30, $40, and $30 respectively.

Travelers should also budget for additional transport costs, such as taxis which average around $7 USD.

With 36 reviews and an average rating of 4.5 stars, the tour is praised for its balanced itinerary blending organized excursions and free time for personal exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Extend or Shorten the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended or shortened. Travelers can customize the itinerary and length of stay at each destination based on their preferences and available time. Tour operators offer flexible options to accommodate individual needs.

Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to suit individual preferences. Travelers can work with the tour operator to adjust the duration, activities, and destinations based on their interests and travel goals.

What Is the Minimum Group Size for the Tour?

The minimum group size for this tour is not specified, but many Patagonia tours typically accommodate a range of group sizes to provide a personalized experience. It’s best to check with the tour operator for the latest details.

Are Meals Other Than Breakfast Included in the Tour Cost?

The tour package includes daily breakfasts, but other meals are not covered in the cost. Travelers will have the opportunity to explore local restaurants and eateries during their free time on the tour.

Can I Book This Tour as a Solo Traveler?

Yes, the tour can be booked by solo travelers. The tour provider accommodates individual bookings and the group size allows for a personalized experience. Solo travelers are welcome to join this comprehensive Patagonia tour.

Recap

This 13-day journey through Patagonia offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the region’s stunning natural wonders. From the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier to the captivating landscapes of Torres del Paine and Tierra del Fuego, travelers will be immersed in a world of breathtaking beauty. With a blend of guided excursions and free time, this tour provides the perfect balance for an unforgettable Patagonian adventure.