Top 7 Things to Do in Patagonia

The Patagonian Ice Field embraces the iconic image of Argentina’s Patagonia region with glinting glaciers, soaring ice walls, and jagged fields of undulating tundra nestled between the mountainscapes.

You can embrace the exciting views of Patagonia’s most recognizable feature as you embark on an adventure to visit a number of the more than 626 glaciers that wind across the landscape, giving home to ice islands, creating soaring icebergs, or feeding into glassy lakes and rushing rivers.

Best Glaciers to See: Perito Moreno | Grey | San Rafael | Mayo | Upsala | Piedras Blancas

The rugged landscape, granite peaks, and shimmering ice fields provide a home to some of the most majestic wildlife in South America, including approximately 500 animal species.

From endangered deer to rare wildcats, surprising birds to parading whales, the wildlife of Patagonia can capture your imagination and demonstrate the spirit of untouched nature.

The mixture of ecosystems that range from sea channels to towering mountaintops and sweeping pampas in between offer a range of charming wildlife you can witness during your exploration of this remote region of Argentina and Chile.

Best Wildlife to View: Penguins | Pumas | Whales | Huemul | Sea lions | Guanaco

The wonderful trails of Patagonia can immerse you in a multi-day excursion or a day-long hike across jagged mountain slopes, opening to views of the Beagle Channel.

The tailored routes crisscross the landscape to lead you through grasslands and evergreen forests, take you to glacial lakes or offer panoramas of the glinting ice from hanging glaciers.

Each trail can give you distinctive insight into the marvels of Patagonia as you uncover this remote corner of the world at your own pace.

Best Hikes to Explore: The W Trek | El Chalten | Laguna de los Tres | Laguna and Cerro Torre | Nahuel Huapi Traverse | Grey Glacier HIke

Cycling in Patagonia can give you an extraordinary perspective of the remote region’s mystical ambiance. From finding wildlife along the trails to the contrasts between the Lake’s District and the Glacier Region, cycling through the scenery gives you a deeper appreciation of the changing landscape.

Find views of Fitz Roy Massif, circle the edges of Argentino Lake, or follow the forested paths that lead back to Bariloche for an experience that can encompass cultural and natural beauty.

Best Places for a Cycling Tour: Ushuaia | Bariloche | El Chaltén | Ruta 40 | Crratera Austral | Chiloe

A kayaking adventure in Patagonia not only plunges you into the natural beauty of the region, but also opens you to new areas, often unreachable by land, for a unique experience and fresh perspective.

With fjords, rivers, channels, and glacial lagoons, exploring secluded sections of the region by kayak reveals true serenity and timeless thrills, rare wildlife and endless excitement. Choose a challenging destination, cruise past soaring icebergs, or simply enjoy the remarkable surroundings during your preferred kayak excursion.

Best Places for a Kayaking Adventure: Hope Fjord: Beagle Channel | Nahuel Huapi Lake | Lake Argentino | Serrano River | Futaleufu River | Puerto Aysen

An estancia is a quintessential experience in Argentina and the remote ranches of Patagonia embrace the secluded landscape and authentic lifestyle on which the legends of gauchos were built.

During your stay, you can enjoy the essential scenery and indulge in the luxuries of the accommodations and location for an unforgettable experience of unspoiled land and sky. Working ranches capture the setting, the landscape changing across the different regions of Patagonia and reflecting a stunning escape from the bustling pace of contemporary life.

Best Places to Enjoy an Estancia: Lake Region | Glacier Región | Tierra del Fuego | Peninsula Valdés | Torres del Paine | Puerto Natales

The culinary experiences of Patagonia are on equal footing with the epic trails and stunning landscapes, but are often overshadowed by the grand scale of the mountaintops and sweeping plains.

The cuisine nods to the landscape and heritage, as you uncover remarkable meats and seafood or exceptional confections, such as chocolates and ice cream.

From natural berries to surprising cultural trends brought from Europe, the culinary traditions and delights of Patagonia accentuate the natural beauty of the surroundings during your tour.

Best Places to Indulge in the Cuisine: Bariloche | Ushuaia | El Calafate | Chiloe | Frutillar | Puerto Montt

Patagonia is a captivating destination where the remote beauty of the natural world meets an independent spirit that exemplifies perseverance.

With exceptional trails, seductive glacial landscapes, and surprising cuisine that embodies the essence of the sweeping scenery, it is easy to become infatuated with the culture and wonders of the secluded region.

For inspiration on how you can experience your preferred trip, see Zicasso’s Patagonia Tours. Speak with a Patagonia travel specialist to start planning your custom trip or call our team at 1-888-265-9707 to speak with a Travel Care Specialist.