Night: 8
Amazing Patagonia: Ushuaia, El calafate and Torres del Paine National Park
An amazing 8-night program to enjoy the best of Southern Patagonia
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Best Season | Shoulder Season | Low Season | Not Available
A wonderful 8-night tour to visit the best of Southern Patagonia
Ushuaia, often known as the “End of the World”, is the administrative hub of Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego, Antarctica, and South Atlantic Islands Province. Cradled between the Martial Mountains and the Beagle Channel, this remote city is embraced by awe-inspiring landscapes featuring snow-dusted peaks, vast glaciers, and dense woodlands.
As the main gateway to Antarctica and the farthest corners of South America, Ushuaia has earned its reputation as a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy an array of outdoor pursuits, including trekking, hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and observing unique wildlife.
Just minutes from the city lies Tierra del Fuego National Park, a pristine natural reserve with winding trails, serene lakes, and a remarkable variety of flora and fauna. Here, travelers can immerse themselves in the raw beauty of Patagonia while exploring by foot or boat.
Ushuaia also carries a fascinating maritime legacy. Museums such as the Maritime Museum and the End of the World Museum highlight its nautical past and cultural evolution. Beyond history, the city delights food enthusiasts with a dynamic culinary scene, offering everything from fresh seafood and traditional Argentine flavors to international dishes. Altogether, Ushuaia seamlessly blends wilderness, heritage, and gastronomy, delivering an unforgettable journey to the southernmost city on Earth.
El Calafate, a charming Patagonian town on the shores of Lake Argentino, acts as the main access point to the world-renowned Perito Moreno Glacier. Surrounded by stunning steppe and mountain scenery, El Calafate is the perfect base for discovering the wonders of southern Patagonia.
The undisputed highlight is the colossal Perito Moreno Glacier, stretching over 250 square kilometers and rising about 70 meters above the turquoise waters of the lake. Its dazzling shades of blue and the dramatic spectacle of massive ice chunks breaking off and crashing into the water leave every visitor spellbound.
Panoramic boardwalks and balconies provide breathtaking views, while more adventurous travelers can opt for guided ice trekking expeditions, exploring crevasses, ice caves, and surreal formations directly on the glacier’s surface. These excursions offer an intimate encounter with one of the planet’s most extraordinary natural marvels.
Beyond the glacier, El Calafate invites guests to experience Patagonian traditions and landscapes through horseback rides, birdwatching tours, navigation across nearby lakes, and visits to traditional estancias. The town also boasts a vibrant dining culture, where local lamb, freshly caught fish, and artisanal desserts made with regional ingredients take center stage.
Together, El Calafate and Perito Moreno Glacier combine striking scenery, thrilling adventure, and authentic culture, making them essential stops on any Patagonian itinerary.
To crown the journey, we cross the border into Puerto Natales, Chile, the gateway to the legendary Torres del Paine National Park—a dazzling masterpiece of granite spires, emerald lakes, glaciers, and endless steppe. Known as one of South America’s most iconic landscapes, Torres del Paine offers travelers the chance to witness Patagonia at its most dramatic and unforgettable.
Are you prepared to discover the ultimate highlights of Patagonia?
OUR RECOMMENDATION
If you’re planning a trip to Patagonia, I personally recommend combining Ushuaia, El Calafate, and Torres del Paine in one itinerary. It’s truly the best way to capture the spirit of the region.
Starting in Ushuaia, you’ll experience the charm of the southernmost city in the world. I always find it fascinating how the city sits between the mountains and the Beagle Channel, offering both stunning landscapes and countless activities. Whether you enjoy hiking, skiing in winter, or simply discovering the history at the Maritime Museum, Ushuaia always leaves a lasting impression. Don’t miss a visit to Tierra del Fuego National Park—it’s one of my personal favorites for its scenery and unique wildlife.
From there, traveling north to El Calafate feels like entering a different side of Patagonia. The highlight, without a doubt, is the Perito Moreno Glacier. I’ve visited many times, yet I’m still amazed every time I hear the thunder of the ice breaking into Lake Argentino. For a truly unforgettable experience, I always suggest the ice trekking tour—walking on the glacier itself is something you’ll never forget.
To complete the journey, crossing into Chile and exploring Torres del Paine National Park is simply spectacular. The landscapes there are breathtaking, with towering granite peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and glaciers that will stay in your memory forever. It’s the perfect way to round out your Patagonian adventure.
This combination of destinations offers nature, culture, and adventure in equal measure. If you’re looking for the most complete experience of southern Patagonia, this is the tour I would wholeheartedly recommend.
RAMIRO RODRIGUEZ
Sales & Marketing Manager at MiniTrekking.com & RipioTurismo
ITINERARY
Amazing Patagonia Tour: Ushuaia, El Calafate and Torres del Paine National Park
DAY 1
Arrive to Ushuaia
Arrive at Ushuaia International Airport, the gateway to the “End of the World.” Ushuaia, the southernmost city on the planet, is framed by the Martial Mountains and the Beagle Channel, offering a spectacular blend of peaks, glaciers, and forests. After your transfer to the hotel, enjoy free time to relax or add one of the optional activities available.
Optional Excursions & Tours:
DAY 2
Tierra del Fuego National Park + Beagle Channel Navigation
After breakfast, discover Tierra del Fuego National Park on a half-day excursion. Walk among pristine forests, rivers, and mountains, and marvel at Lapataia Bay, the southern end of the Pan-American Highway. If you wish, you can ride the famous “End of the World Train” through scenic valleys and learn about the region’s history.
In the afternoon, embark on a navigation of the Beagle Channel. Sail past Isla de Lobos to watch colonies of sea lions and seabirds, and admire the iconic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse. Overnight in Ushuaia.
DAY 3
Free time
Today is free for optional tours: hike to Laguna Esmeralda or Laguna Turquesa, sail to see Magellanic and Gentoo penguins, kayak along remote shores, or visit the scenic Fagnano and Escondido Lakes.
Optional Excursions & Tours:
4×4 Lakes Adventure: Off-Road Exploration from Ushuaia
Excursion to Fagnano and Escondido Lakes from Ushuaia
Gable Island and Penguin Reserve Excursion with Harberton Ranch and Canoe Adventure from Ushuaia
Half Day Ushuaia City Tour
Helicopter Tour over Emerald Lagoon in Ushuaia
Punta Paraná & Puerto Almanza: Beagle Channel Adventure
Trekking to Emerald Lagoon
Trekking to Turquesa Lagoon and Carbajal Mount from Ushuaia
DAY 4
Goodbye Ushuaia - Arrive to El Calafate
Breakfast and transfer to the airport. Depending on your flight schedule, you may add an additional excursion before your departure.
Then, flight to El Calafate. Arrive and tranfser to your hotel. Free time
Optional Excursions & Tours:
DAY 5
Perito Moreno Glacier
After breakfast, we will start the excursion to Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentine Patagonia, an awe-inspiring journey into one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders. Departing from the charming town of El Calafate, travelers embark on a scenic drive through the rugged Patagonian landscape to Los Glaciares National Park. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by the breathtaking sight of the towering ice walls of the glacier, which rise dramatically above the turquoise waters of Lake Argentino. Guided tours lead guests to strategically positioned viewing platforms, where they can marvel at the glacier’s dynamic movements and listen to the thunderous crashes of ice calving into the lake. Some excursions also include a boat tour, providing an up-close perspective of the glacier’s sheer size and scale. For the adventurous, guided ice trekking tours offer the chance to explore the glacier’s surface, navigating its crevasses and seracs with the assistance of experienced guides. Throughout the excursion, knowledgeable guides provide insights into the glacier’s formation, geology, and ecological significance, enhancing the experience with their expertise and passion for the natural world. Overall, the excursion to Perito Moreno Glacier offers a captivating blend of adventure, natural beauty, and educational enrichment, making it an unforgettable highlight of any visit to Argentine Patagonia.
DAY 6
Choose from options available
After breakfast, the day is free for you, to choose any of the boat navigations available to visit different glaciers in Los Glaciares National Park, visit a typical estancia, or even visit El Chaltén. Check the list below
DAY 7
From El Calafate to Torres del Paine
After breakfast, transfer to bus station to take public bus to the border and from there, transfer to Torres del Paine. Free time and overnight.
DAY 8
Torres del Paine
After braekfast, free time to choose from a wide variety of activities available in Torres del Paine National Park. Check the list below:
DAY 9
Goodbye Patagonia
After breakfast, transfer to Puerto Natales or Punta Arenas airport for your flight to the next destination in South America.
About Us
VisitUshuaia.com, a site by RipioTurismo, celebrates South America as the vibrant garden of our world, rich in colorful landscapes, cultural heritage, gastronomy, and warm hospitality. With +20 years of expertise, we craft custom trips across Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, and Paraguay. Our carefully selected hotels and local partners ensure the best service possible. We cater to FITs, groups, adventure seekers, and the 50+ age group with luxury tours.
GALLERY
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- Transfers in/out airport to hotel
- 8 nights of accommodation with breakfast
- Activities as detailed in the itinerary
- Tips
- Meals not detailed in the itinerary
- Internal flights that can be quoted separately
FAQs
What is the best season to do this tour?
Definitely during spring and summer, ideal for outdoors activities. So, October to April period. Also during winter season if you´re looking for snow and winter activities Ushuaia is perfect, but not a good idea for trekkings in Torres del Paine for example.
Can I add extra nights?
Yes, absolutely. You can add extra nights in any of the destinations included in the program. Just contact us
Can I see penguins during my trip to Ushuaia?
Well, check the penguin calendar first.
Penguin Season in Ushuaia:
Main Season: Penguins are present from October to April (spring and summer in the Southern Hemisphere). This is when Magellanic and Gentoo penguins come to Isla Martillo to nest and raise their chicks. During these months you can do either a walking tour on the island or a boat tour to see them.
Off-Season (May to September):
The Magellanic and Gentoo penguins migrate north once the cold, dark winter sets in. Tours to Isla Martillo do not operate because there are no large colonies to observe.
Can I enjoy snow in Ushuaia during my trip?
Well, check the following information:
Main snow season:
Runs from late June to early October
The peak is usually July and August, coinciding with Argentine winter school holidays. Snow can still be found in May/early June and sometimes in late October, but it’s less reliable.
Where you’ll find snow:
Cerro Castor – the southernmost ski resort in the world, about 26 km from Ushuaia. Open typically mid-June to early October depending on snowfall.
Valle de Tierra Mayor & Valle de Lobos – great for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding, and snowmobiles.
Martial Glacier – accessible from the city, often with snow early and late in the season.
We have some tours and packages specially prepared for winter season. Check our vacation packages area
Anyway, please note, the winter season is not the best season for Torres del Paine National Park, some trekkings will be not available due the snow and ice on the trails.
Can I add internal flights to my trip?
Yes, we can quote it for you. The price for internal flights are not included in our quotation, but can be added on request. Just check with your travel designer what´s the price for flights to connect destinations in Patagonia.
Can I combine this tour with another destination in Patagonia?
Yes absolutely. You can add Santiago after the tour, or may be Buenos Aires before your flight to Ushuaia. You also can add Bariloche or Puerto Madryn and Peninsula Valdes, amazing destinations in Patagonia.
Are the entrance to national parks included in the package?
Yes, the entrance to National Parks are included in your program. Anyway, check with your travel designer if you prefer to pay the entrance fee on the spot on your own. It´s also possible.
Request Tour
What Happens After I Send the Request?
Prepare to receive a tailored quote and valuable email suggestions from our travel agent shortly. We emphasize grasping your distinct travel preferences and crafting a personalized itinerary for your upcoming journey.
Irrespective of your chosen destination, our commitment lies in guaranteeing an exceptionally memorable experience for you.
How Do I Book?
Once our travel agent designs your ideal tour, making the payment is convenient through PayPal. If you choose, you can use PayPal without needing to create an account. Additionally, we offer the option of bank transfers as an alternative payment method.
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