Top 14 Destinations in Patagonia for Adventure, Wildlife, and Culture

Spanning vast areas of southern Chile and Argentina, Patagonia is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Lace up your hiking boots for some of South America's most breathtaking trails, thrilling white-water rafting, wildlife observation, and horseback riding. 

However, this land of plains and peaks has much more to offer beyond its adventure-focused image. It boasts a rich and tumultuous history, captivating cowboy culture, and even innovative fusion cuisine at the edge of the world.

Craft the perfect travel itinerary from our selection of the top attractions in stunning Patagonia.

1. Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Top Spot for Hiking and Wildlife Observation 

You’ll catch a glimpse of the iconic bell-shaped Los Cuernos range and the distinctive granite towers of Las Torres long before you arrive at Patagonia’s most famous national park.

Torres del Paine is the sole national park in Patagonia where you can organize a multi-day hut-to-hut hike while carrying just a light day pack, or choose to camp at well-equipped designated sites.   

Chile’s pride and joy is home to two extraordinary multi-day hikes. The 'Circuit' offers a seven- to ten-day journey through the park’s key highlights, featuring close encounters with its renowned mountain ranges and the demanding traverse of John Gardner Pass, providing breathtaking views of Glacier Grey from above.

The three- to five-day 'W' route skips the backcountry trek and pass crossing but includes the three main attractions: Glacier Grey, the French Valley, and Las Torres. Keep an eye out for pumas and guanacos, especially in the backcountry.

2. Ushuaia, Argentina

Top Destination for Antarctic Cruises

Every summer in the southern hemisphere sees travelers heading to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in Argentina, as they prepare to board massive icebreakers in the harbor for the challenging journey across the stormy Drake’s Passage to the most remote continent on Earth.

To make the trip worthwhile, you'll need at least a week and some extra funds. While last-minute 'deals' may pop up, be prepared to spend time wandering the steep streets with views of the Beagle Channel, hoping for an available spot with your name on it.

Experienced sailors can volunteer to crew a yacht on lengthy trips to Antarctica.   

3. El Calafate, Argentina

Top Spot for Viewing Expansive Glaciers

Daily, fleets of buses depart from the small, highly popular Argentine town of El Calafate to the Perito Moreno glacier—an easily accessible icy wonder and one of the few glaciers in the world that is still advancing.

A network of boardwalks guides visitors to various viewpoints, allowing contemplation of this glimmering blue-white ice wall. Occasionally, a muffled 'crack' and splash herald the calving of an ice chunk the size of a house.

Tour operators in El Calafate also offer full-day catamaran cruises to more secluded glaciers, including Upsala and Spegazzini glaciers on Lake Argentino.

With its array of boutique hotels and hostels, along with a dining scene rich in steak, wine, and craft beer, El Calafate makes an excellent base for exploring the surrounding natural wonders. 

4. Isla Navarino, Chile

Top Destination for End-of-the-World Adventures

Whenever Puerto Williams—the 'capital' of Chile’s Isla Navarino—is mentioned, Ushuaia turns envious, as this small community of fewer than 3,000 residents claims the title of the southernmost permanently inhabited place on Earth, outpacing the capital of Argentine Tierra del Fuego.

Whether you’re swapping tales with centolla (king crab) fishermen and Antarctica-bound researchers at the town’s sole bar, embarking on one of South America’s most challenging multi-day treks—the Dientes de Navarino—or using Puerto Williams as a launchpad to sail to Cape Horn, you’re bound to earn your adventurer’s credentials here. 

5. Futaleufú, Chile

Top Spot for Thrilling White Water Rafting Challenges

Picture this: you and your rafting team are crouched on either side of the raft, poised for the guide's signal to paddle with all your might as if your life depends on it.

Massive turquoise waves crash against the inflatable boat, soaking you from head to toe in white water spray. You clear your eyes and prepare to tackle another set of Class VI rapids on one of the most formidable white water rivers in the world.

Rafting trips are available from December to March, and there are plenty of guesthouses in the town that shares its name, serving as a great base before you embark on your white water adventure.  

6. Península Valdés, Argentina

Top Destination for Spotting Southern Right Whales 

Imagine this: you’re on a boat just off the coast of Península Valdés, a protected area in northeast Argentina, when a powerful spray of water erupts from the sea. 'Look, a whale!' someone exclaims, as the surrounding waves come alive with activity.

Each year, starting in mid-June, hundreds of southern right whales migrate to these chilly waters to breed and can frequently be seen—sometimes even from the shore—until mid-December.

The peninsula, also home to sea lions, seals, and over 180 species of seabirds, can be accessed through the town of Puerto Madryn, where you can book boat tours, kayaking, and diving adventures.

7. El Chaltén, Argentina

Ideal Base for Incredible Day Hikes

Nestled beneath the iconic three-pronged peak of Mount Fitz Roy, the quaint town of El Chaltén is renowned as the trekking capital of Argentinian Patagonia.

Whether you're undertaking the challenging trek to the glacial Laguna de Los Tres, wandering through southern beech forests in the private Reserva Los Huemules while hoping to catch a glimpse of the endangered huemul deer, or simply strolling to the waterfall at the north end of town, you'll find a variety of day hike options for all skill levels.

Camping is an option, but not a necessity: each evening, you can return to your charming guesthouse or hostel, enjoying a delicious meal and craft beer at one of the town’s many upscale dining spots, like La Oveja Negra or Patagonicus.

8. Puerto Natales, Chile

Top Spot for Boutique Stays and Fine Dining

Whether you're trekking or climbing in Torres del Paine National Park, ice climbing or kayaking to get up close to glaciers, or seeking horseback adventures in the wild, you'll eventually find yourself in Puerto Natales—the second-largest town in Chilean Patagonia. It's the gateway to every conceivable outdoor adventure.

Luxury options include The Singular Patagonia (a former abattoir transformed into a 5-star hotel), Remota (featuring an estancia-meets-wilderness style), and the ship-like NOI Indigo. For budget travelers, there are boutique hostels like Treehouse Patagonia, Wild, and Yagan House.

The culinary scene offers a range from seasonal delights at Lenga (recently reopened) and traditional barbecue at El Asador Patagonico, to delicious pizza at Base Camp (open seasonally) and unique Calafate berry gin at Last Hope Distillery.

9. Punta Arenas, Chile

Premier Destination for Discovering Patagonia's History

Prior to the Panama Canal's opening in 1914, every vessel navigating around Cape Horn on its way from Europe to California made a stop in Punta Arenas to stock up on supplies.

In the 19th century, this southernmost port city of Chile, located by the Magellan Strait, amassed wealth through trade and sheep farming. Its affluence is evident in the grand stone mansions of wool barons, the spacious avenues adorned with cypress trees, and the intricate marble tombs found in the city cemetery.

The cemetery offers a captivating experience, with names that showcase the diverse nationalities that contributed to the city's development—Scottish, Croatian, Spanish, and Scandinavian. You might even spot the grave of Charles Milward, a relative of travel writer Bruce Chatwin.

Discover the history of Patagonia's indigenous peoples at the Museo Salesiano Maggiorino Borgatello and explore the lives of some of the city’s influential families at the Museo Regional Braun Menendez.

On the city's outskirts, at the Museo Nao Victoria, you can view life-size replicas of Magellan’s ship, Darwin’s HMS Beagle, and the lifeboat that rescued Ernest Shackleton and his crew in the Antarctic Ocean.

10. Cueva de las Manos, Argentina

Best location for encountering enigmatic ancient rock art

Nestled in a secluded canyon, accessible by tour or by driving from the towns of Perito Moreno or Bajo Caracoles along the picturesque Route 40, a boardwalk guides you past a massive overhanging rock face adorned with ancient artistic expressions.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site ranks among the most significant rock art locations in South America, featuring over 800 stenciled outlines of human hands, alongside footprints of pumas, guanacos (wild relatives of llamas), and ñandús (small ostriches).

The ancient people of the pampas crafted these black, white, and ochre stencils by blowing a mixture of water and various soils against their hands or animal feet, for reasons that remain a mystery.

11. Puyuhuapi, Chile

Best destination for indulging in hot springs

As you drive or bike along Chile’s Carretera Austral, this historic fjordside town, established in 1935 by four resourceful German settlers and characterized by its wood-shingled homes, is a perfect place to take a break.

Although thermal springs are plentiful in Chile, Puyuhuapi is the sole town in Patagonia where you can immerse yourself in soothing waters.

You can select from Termas del Ventisquero, the rustic springs just a short walk from the town, or opt for a luxurious stay at Puyuhuapi Lodge, which offers private thermal pools and waterfalls, accessible by speedboat across the fjord.

12. The Pampas

Best destination for horseback riding and immersing in rural life

In the popular imagination, Patagonia evokes images of the Pampas—vast grasslands that extend endlessly—and the courageous cattle herders known as gauchos in Argentina and huasos in Chile. These riders are often seen traversing rural Patagonia, dressed in sheepskin ponchos and berets, sipping yerba-mate tea from flasks. Visitors can embrace this rustic lifestyle by staying at an estancia (ranch), with arrangements made from Puerto Natales (Chile) or El Calafate (Argentina), usually including horseback riding and delicious spit-roasted lamb asado (Patagonian barbecue).

13. The Carretera Austral, Chile

Best route for an unforgettable road trip

Referring to it as the 'Southern Highway' is somewhat misleading, as you’ll learn when you navigate this remote, iconic road in Chile.

Initially built under Pinochet’s regime in the 1970s, this road remains only partially paved and stretches approximately 694 miles (1117 km) from Hornopirén in the north to Villa O’Higgins in the south. It weaves through fog-laden, often rainy terrains filled with lush southern forests, towering wild rhubarb, snow-capped peaks, and misty fjords.

Set aside at least a couple of weeks to discover the charming towns and national parks that line the route. You can rent a car in either Puerto Montt, to the north of Hornopirén, or in Coyhaique, the only sizable town situated midway along the Carretera Austral.

14. Punta Tombo, Argentina

Top spot for observing penguins and diverse bird species

You’ll catch the scent of the penguins long before you see them. With nearly a million Magellanic penguins—some tucked away in burrows, others waddling to the sea for a catch, and many preening themselves—the experience is a vivid sensory overload.

The elongated peninsula, which hosts the largest and most accessible penguin colonies in Patagonia, is also a haven for kelp gulls, cormorants, flightless steamer ducks, and black oystercatchers.

Visitors can wander along the boardwalks that meander past the beach and nesting sites; access is possible by personal vehicle (ideally early in the morning) or via tours from the nearby town of Trelew.