Trip Report Argentinas Patagonia Region Travel Tips
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Trip Report: Argentina's Patagonia Region
01/31/2023Posted by Vincent Vacations
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Introduction: Patagonia, South America's southernmost region, is enormous - over 400,000 square miles, larger than Texas. The sparsely populated region is shared between Chile and Argentina. On the Chilean side, you'll find fjords and rainforests. Argentina's Patagonia is mostly windswept steppes and dry grasslands. Both sides share the southern Andes mountain range with jagged peaks, glaciers, and the Patagonian Ice Field, one of the world's largest. Because of the geography and climate, the tourist season in Patagonia is short, typically from October to May. Most lodges and attractions close for Patagonia's winter season June through September. 

Argentina's Patagonia. The main natural attraction in this region is Parque Nacional los Glaciares, a vast nature reserve with some of the most spectacular sights found anywhere. The park has two focal points for most visitors: in the North, the town of El Chaltén (trekking capital of South America); in the South, the city of El Calafate, the region's main gateway and principal airport (FTE). There is frequent air service from Buenos Aires to El Calafate, a 3.5 hour flight. 
El Chaltén. This small, colorful town (population 2,000) is only 35 years old and was established by Argentina to secure the western border with Chile. The town is about a 3 hour drive north of El Calafate. Over the years, El Chaltén has become the trekking capital of South America. It is the perfect jumping off point for world-class hikes to Patagonia's most emblematic mountains, including Cerro Fitz Roy (elevation 11,000) and Cerro Torre, considered among the most beautiful mountains in the world. Travelers can also enjoy fly fishing, horseback riding, mountain & ice climbing, among many active options. The top adventure in this area: The hike to Laguna de Los Tres, most popular of all treks in the region. This challenging, all-day hike (about 15 miles) will demand every ounce of energy from you but is well worth the effort, especially if the weather cooperates. The highlight is reaching the lagoon at the foot of Mount Fitz Roy, an unforgettable sight. Other great hikes: Laguna Torre, Laguna del Diablo, Glaciar Marconi, Lago del Desierto, Valle del Electrico, and Laguna Toro. 

Where to stay in El Chaltén: The New Explora Lodge
The best option in this area, by a mile, is the new Explora Lodge. Since the property opened in December of 2021 it has been an instant success. The ultra-modern lodge is set within a private nature reserve and features 17 spacious guestrooms and 3 suites. All guestrooms have views of the mountains and can accommodate a bed for a child under 12. Decor is modern, pared-down, and designed to highlight the surrounding landscape. Explora El Chalten's all-inclusive formula covers all meals + drinks, all activities, and airport transfer to/from El Calafate. The lodge offers over 30 different active/adventure options, from easy to very challenging. One great advantage of staying at Explora Lodge is that half of the activities are within the private nature reserve, so you do not see other travelers. The lodge has a deck with outdoor jacuzzis and a wellness space. There is no TV in the rooms, but the resort does offer internet. Tip: Book far in advance to secure reservations. The lodge is open 01OCT through 01MAY.
El Calafate and the Perito Moreno Glacier.
At the southern end of the Parque Nacional Los Glaciares is the other star attraction in this region: The Perito Moreno Glacier, an arm of the Patagonian icefield. The glacier is notable because it is very accessible and because it is constantly advancing, causing massive chunks of ice calving from its front walls. There are many ways to experience the wonder and grandeur of Perito Moreno: trekking across the ice, cruising or kayaking on the lake in front of the glacier, or walking down elevated boardwalks for great views of the glacier - three miles wide. (Note: for the ice trekking, you must be under 65). Also noteworthy: visiting Glaciar Upsala and Lago Onelli, Lago Roca, and trekking and horseback riding in the area. Don't miss the Glaciarium, a museum that illuminates the world of ice and is a great introduction to the region, located in the outskirts of El Calafate. 
Where to stay near El Calafate: EOLO - Patagonia's SpiritIdeally situated about halfway between the town of El Calafate and the Perito Moreno Glacier is EOLO, the small Relais & Chateaux resort within the vast Estancia Alice, a 10,000 acre-ranch. The property offers 17 comfortable and individually decorated guestrooms with fantastic views of the mountains and valleys surrounding the estate. EOLO is known for the quality of its fine dining, serving locally sourced produce. By day, enjoy hiking, horseback riding, 4x4 adventures, mountain biking, or long walks within the ranch. The lodge has a wellness space and outdoor jacuzzi. At night, marvel at the night skies and search for the Southern Cross. The resort is all-inclusive and is open mid-September to mid-May. Tip: Book far ahead, as the lodge is very popular.
A great resource: Argentina Activa
I traveled through Patagonia with the advice and support of Argentina Activa, the Vincent Vacations Destination Specialist based in Buenos Aires. The company helped me design a great itinerary, provided expert guides and drivers on the ground, and delivered great customer service from start to finish. I was impressed with the reliability and expertise of the Argentina Activa team in Patagonia. Find more information on Vincent Vacations under suppliers/destination specialists/Argentina Activa.
Next: Where to stay in Buenos Aires and Practical Advice for Argentina
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