29 Best Places To Visit In Patagonia - Updated 2024

Philip
Philip 
Updated
| 14 min read

Famous around the world for its natural wonders, Patagonia has cast a spell on many a traveller - all of whom who feel compelled to explore the huge open spaces and spellbinding wildernesses of the southernmost tip of South America. And such vast country means there’s enough to keep a traveller occupied for years. From the stunning spires and peaks of the likes of Mount Fitz Roy and the Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, to the frozen ice fields and glaciers of Perito Moreno, Patagonia’s landscape likes to go BIG. The fjords and archipelagos of the area are also home to a wide array of animal and plant life, including baleen whales, imposing elephant seals and numerous penguin colonies. Then there are enticing man-made charms like those of the steam trains of the Tren Patagonico. So, where do you start when looking to plan your journey? Find the best places to visit in Patagonia.

1. Futaleufú, Chile

Laguna Espejo. futaleufú
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Javieramillaray used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Likely to appeal to adventure tourists, Futaleufú is popular for its mix of whitewater rafting, canyoning, hiking and mountain biking. Whitewater rafting is a particularly sought-after activity, with the Futaleufú River being famed as one of the best places in the world to enjoy the sport. Set amid beautiful mountain scenery, the area is also home to the likes of Laguna Espejo and Lago Espolon, the latter of which is also known for its fishing. Those seeking to explore will also find Futaleufú National Reserve. The reserve extends to more than 120 sq km (46 sq mi) and is home to a number of waterfalls.

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2. El Calafate, Argentina (from USD 82.0)

Situated near the Southern Patagonian Ice Field in Argentina, El Calafate is a popular stopping off point for those heading into Parque Nacional Los Glaciares to enjoy its stunning jagged mountains and arctic snowfields. Indeed, the huge 2806.7 sq mi park (7269.3 sq km) is home to the likes of Perito Moreno Glacier, which is one of Argentinian Patagonia’s key tourist attractions, as are the seemingly impossible fairytale-like jagged peaks of Cerro Torre and Cerro Chaltén. Wildlife fans should also keep an eagle eye out, as flamingos can be seen from the town in the nearby waters of Lago Argentino.

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El Calafate City Tour and Walichu caves

Duration: 3 hours

3. Torres del Paine, Chile

Torres del Paine2, Chile
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user McGrain used under CC BY-SA 4.0

The neighbouring Chilean national park of Torres del Paine is also home to some truly majestic mountain scenery - such as Paine Horns and Towers of Paine from which the park derives its name. Indeed, its beauty is so famous that it has been dubbed an 8th wonder of the world in some international publications. One of the biggest parks in Chile, it extends across more than 1800 sq km (695 sq mi) and welcomes something like a quarter of a million visitors every year - who are drawn to the area’s many popular hikes and marked paths.

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4. Bariloche, Argentina (from USD 27.0)

Beautiful lake-side views and alpine landscapes await visitors. It sits on the shores of the glacial lake of Nahuel Huapi, from which the local national park gets its name. A popular stopping off point for skiing enthusiasts, the town sits just 12 mi (19 km) from the largest lift-accessed ski resort in South American continent - Cerro Catedral - while those who visit the area in the summer will find plenty of trekking and whitewater rafting opportunities in the wider Lakes District area. Check out the popular sunbathing spots on lake beaches at Villa Tacul and Playa Bonita. Oh, and if you’re down by the waters of Nahuel Huapi, keep an eagle-eye for Nahuelito - the lake’s resident ‘monster’.

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Bariloche Sightseeing Tour

Duration: 4 hours

12 reviews

5. Puerto Chacabuco, Chile

Puerto Chacabuco, Aysen, chile - panoramio
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Gillermo Adolfo used under CC BY 3.0

A popular stopping off point for cruise ships exploring the fjords and archipelagos of this corner of northern Patagonia, the small town of Puerto Chacabuco sits on the 70-km (43 mi) long Aisén Fjord and serves as a gateway to the town of Puerto Aisén some 9 mi (15 km) away. Popular local attractions include the San Rafael Lake, a lagoon which owes its existence to the glacier of the same name. This is regularly visited by vessels sailing out of Puerto Chacabuco, giving passengers a chance to enjoy the natural spectacle of ice plunging into waters. Elsewhere, the Simpson River is a popular canoeing and fishing spot.

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6. Pucón, Chile

PuconChile2015
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user SCatherineHowell used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Another popular destination for adventure-seeking tourists, this Chilean city sits in the shadow of the active Villarrica volcano, whose snow-capped flanks can be visited by those seeking guided treks and climbs. The area is also popular for hikers, rafters, anglers and wildlife spotters, the latter of whom may wish to visit the private protected area of El Cañi, which is home to pumas, condors and more. The volcanic nature of the landscape also means there are hot springs and thermal baths in the wider Pucón area, while fans of lake landscapes will find much to enjoy at Lake Villarrica and Caburgua Lake.

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7. El Chaltén, Argentina (from USD 88.0)

Located in the aforementioned Los Glaciares National Park, the mountain village of El Chaltén lies close to El Calafate. Dubbed Argentina’s trekking capital, El Chaltén is a popular stopping off point for those seeking to hike the mountain trails and lakes or simply enjoying the views of the impressive peaks and spires within the national park, such as Cerro Chaltén (or Mount Fitz Roy) and Cerro Torre.

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Full Day El Chalten

Duration: 10 to 11 hours

17 reviews

8. Punta Arenas, Chile (from USD 200.0)

Punta Arenas, 26
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user LBM1948 used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Once dubbed the ‘City of the Red Roofs’ due to the distinctive colour of the metal roofing material found on many buildings, Punta Arenas sits near the tip of the continent in the Strait of Magellan. The city’s landmarks include the likes of the cathedral and a statue of world-famous explorer Ferdinand Magellan. Other local attractions include the penguin populations of Magdalena Island, Magallanes National Reserve and Nao Victoria Museum, with its replica of Magellan’s famous ship, which was the first to circumnavigate the world.

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Full-Day Punta Arenas and Magellan Strait Tour

Duration: 5 hours 55 minutes

44 reviews

9. Trelew, Argentina

Banco Nación Trelew de día
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Gastón Cuello used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Patagonia has proven to be a hotbed for dinosaur fossils. Museum of Paleontology Egidio Feruglio, a scientific research and exhibition facility features fossil displays alongside mini-theatre experiences and more. Bryn Gwyn Geopark, 15.5 mi (25 km) from the town, also depicts fossils of species that post-date the age of dinos. The city is also a popular stopping off spot for wildlife fans seeking to explore the largest penguin reserve in the whole of Argentina, Punto Tombo, a peninsula that sits some 68 mi (110 km) south of the city.

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10. Coyhaique, Chile

Coyhaique
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Don Fulano used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Dubbed the city of eternal snows, due to the surrounding mountain peaks and their sometimes year-round snow cover, Coyhaique is a popular destination among fly fishing enthusiasts drawn to the area’s lakes and rivers. As one might expect from the snowy nickname, there is also a ski resort nearby - El Fraile - although it boasts no on-site lodging should you be tempted to hit its tracks. The area is also home to a number of natural attractions, from the impressively jagged Cerro Castillo mountain to Coyhaique National Reserve and Piedra del Indio, a rock shaped like a native American that lies beside the Simpson River.

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11. El Bolsón, Argentina

El Bolson vista desde Cerro Piltriquitron
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Nsimean used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

El Bolsón is popular among tourists not just for the area’s various outdoor activities but also for the mix of local produce and food. Indeed, the town hosts an artisan market and the area produces a special beer, a number of cheeses, organic preserves and smoked trout - all of which are likely to appeal to food fans. Outdoor activities include a range of hiking, climbing, waterborne rafting and angling. While more unique attractions can be found on the flanks of Piltriquitrón Hill, where artists turned the trunks of trees damaged in a forest fire 40 years ago into 50 sculptures.

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12. Chiloe Island, Chile

Stilt Houses
Source: Photo by user Steven dosRemedios used under CC BY-ND 2.0

This large island, which is 118-mi (190 km) long and 40 mi (65 km) wide, is among the biggest in South America, which makes for a wide range of attractions. Check out the colourful Church of San Francisco in the town of Castro, natural wonders like Chiloé National Park, the private preserve of Tantauco Park and the wildlife-rich Islotes de Puñihuil Natural Monument - three small islets off the west coast where Magellanic and Humboldt penguins breed and whale spotting opportunities exist. Keep an eye out for a mighty blue whale, Chile’s main sea lion colony or endangered marine otters.

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13. Puerto Varas, Chile

Chile - Puerto Varas 19 - downtown lakeside Puerto Varas (6980393259)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user McKay Savage used under CC BY 2.0

Noted for its Germanic architecture, Puerto Varas is popular among tourists not just for its German influences and traditions, but also for its scenic setting within easy reach of volcanic mountains, national parks and lakes. These include the Osorno volcano - which has become famous for its striking similarity to Japan’s Mt. Fuji - the summit trek of the Calbuco stratovolcano and the picturesque Lake Todos Los Santos 47 mi (76 km) east of the town. Explore the chute-style Petrohué Falls, as well as the likes of Puyehue and Vicente Pérez Rosales national parks.

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14. Esquel, Argentina

Ferrocarril La Trochita 04
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Marcelo Ois Lagarde used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Home to Old Patagonian Express - La Trochita - the railway has not one, but two claims to fame. It has the southern-most functioning railway and it is the only long-distance narrow-gauge railway. The full line extends for just over 400 km (249 mi) and features 22 steam engines, and, while services no longer run the full length, tourist services do operate between Esquel and the volcano at Nahuel Pan, and further north between Desvío Thomae and El Maitén. Those less enthused by railways will also find the natural charms of Los Alerces National Park west of Esquel, with its mix of waterfall, lakes and forests.

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15. Puerto Pirámides, Argentina

2º Bajada al Mar, Puerto Piramides, Chubut, Argentina - panoramio - Ecohotel
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ecohotel used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Located in Valdes Peninsula, a nature reserve which enjoys world heritage site status thanks to the area’s important wildlife species, Puerto Pirámides is regarded as being one of the best places in the world to go whale watching. Baleen whale species can be found in the waters from May to December, while orca are also not uncommon, and can be seen hunting other marine species like the mighty elephant seal and sea lions. More than 180 different bird species also pass through the area or call it home - making it a real boon for wildlife watchers and photographers alike.

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16. Rio Gallegos, Argentina

Catedral (2010 12) - panoramio
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Maula used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Rio Gallegos, the largest settlement in Santa Cruz province, and an important city in southern Argentina, is also home to a surprising array of wildlife. These include numerous bird species, such as Chilean flamingo and rhea; eagle-eyed bird watchers should take note. The city is also home to a number of museums and memorials including a mausoleum to the former city mayor, and later Argentinian president, Nestor Kirchner. Museo de Los Pioneros, which is set within one of the earliest houses in the city, commemorates the pioneers who passed through and settled in the area. The city is also an important military base, and its involvement in the Falkland/Malvinas War is remembered at Guera Malvinas Argentinas.

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17. Villa La Angostura, Argentina

Lago Correntoso Playa
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Azahel used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Set amid a particularly picturesque corner of Patagonia on the north-west banks of Lake Nahuel Huapi, Villa La Angostura has been dubbed the Garden of Patagonia thanks to its beautiful setting and Alpine-style of architecture. The area is also home to one of the shortest rivers in the world - the 200-m (656 ft) long Correntoso - which connects Nahuel Huapi with Correntoso Lake and is noted among anglers for its famously abundant trout fishing. Away from the natural beauty, the town is also noted for its mix of artisanal products like ales and chocolate. Obviously, its location within Nahuel Huapi National Park also makes it popular with outdoors sports fans, including hikers and kayakers.

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18. Villa O'Higgins, Chile

VillaO'Higgins
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Chrislorenz9 used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Named after Chile’s famous independence hero, Bernardo O'Higgins, this small town sits in a remote corner of the country’s picturesque Aysén Region. It did not have road access until 20 years ago when Carretera Austral (or Southern Highway) finally happened. This isolated natural vibe has proven attractive to adventure tourists, drawn by trekking opportunities in the area, the village’s status as a gateway into the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, and by picturesque sights like Glaciar O'Higgins and Lake O'Higgins. Speaking of Argentina, there are regular summer boat trips across the water to Candelario Mancilla - should you fancy a journey on the water.

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19. Viedma, Argentina

Rio Negro, Viedma
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Jonydiaz used under CC BY-SA 4.0

A twin city with neighbouring Carmen de Patagones on the other side of Rio Negro, Viedma, the twin has the honour of being the oldest settlement in Patagonia. Local sights include the tower of an old fort, and a number of museums like the Museo Salesiano Cardenal Cagliero. Those who enjoy the open-air and a river-side walk will likely enjoy the paths of Costanera De Viedma, which has many fans. Viedma is also the terminus for Tren Patagonico, a 510 mi (821 km) rail journey that heads all the way between Bariloche, in the Andes, and the Atlantic.

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20. Balmaceda, Chile

Glaciar Balmaceda, Chile
Source: Photo by user portodaspartes used under CC BY 2.0

This small village is home to Balmaceda Airport, which welcomes flights from the airport at Puerto Montt - widely considered a gateway into Patagonia - and is also set to welcome flights from Chile’s second city Concepción from December 2019. Balmaceda’s position within Aysén region places it within reach of the area’s popular mountains, forests and rivers, the latter of which are top fly-fishing spots - including the Huemules River. The aforementioned Cerro Castillo and its national reserve are less than an hour away too, while those eager to see some of the wildlife may wish to head to Estancia Punta del Monte in Coyhaique Alto.

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21. Neuquen, Argentina

Iglesiacatedral
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Aleposta used under CC BY-SA 4.0

This city - the capital of the same province which bears its name - boasts an array of things to see. Attractions include a number of museums such as Museo Gregorio Alvarez, and Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, which houses a mix of works by Argentinian and international artists, as well as a theatre and an auditorium. Sports fans may also wish to check out the Estadio Ruca Che - an 8000-seat sports venue which has played host to international basketball matches. While those who enjoy a riverside spot should head to Paseo de la Costa, a very popular public park and riverside walkway where people can jog, kayak and swim.

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22. Chile Chico, Chile

Chile Chico Wide
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Jorge Morales Pid... used under CC BY-SA 2.5

This Chilean orchard town, which is just 4 mi (6 km) from the Argentinian border, is set on the picturesque shores of General Carrera Lake (or Lake Buenos Aires to its neighbour). The lake, which is the largest in Chile, is not only a noted salmon- and trout-fishing spot, but is also home to some unusual weathered marble rock formations on parts of its shore. The beautiful rugged terrain in the area includes Monte San Valentin, the tallest mountain in Chile’s part of Patagonia, which make for a majestic target for landscape photographers - even if it’s too dangerous for the vast majority of people to contemplate climbing.

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23. Puyuhuapi, Chile

Puerto Puyuhuapi 01
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Romigraphy used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Another picturesque destination in Chile’s Aysén Region, Puyuhuapi sits on the fjord of the same name and is accessible by road thanks to its location on Carretera Austral, or Southern Highway. Sightseers who visit the village should keep their eyes peeled for one of the dolphin species that call the local seas home. You’ll also find some hot springs nearby. Attractions in the local area range from hike to the famous hanging glacier in Queulat National Park some 15 mi (24 km) south of the village, and Bosque Encantado, with its moist glade woods and glacial waterfalls, some 32 mi (51 km) away.

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24. Puerto Williams, Chile

00 124 2490 Puerto Williams - Südamerika (Feuerland - Tierra del Fuego)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user W. Bulach used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Puerto Williams, on Navarino Island, is another Patagonian destination with one foot in the Antarctic. Indeed, a section of the very vessel which helped to rescue Ernest Shackleton’s ill-fated Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition from Elephant Island - the Yelcho - is preserved in the town. A popular port for tourists heading for Cape Horn, the town is also a destination in its own right, with a number of multi-day hiking trails. Local indigenous peoples who called Tierra del Fuego home are also celebrated at the town’s Martin Gusinde Anthropological Museum, while fans of nature may wish to head for Omora Ethnobotanical Park, just to the west.

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25. Gaiman, Argentina

Gaiman panorama
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Jorge Gobbi used under CC BY 2.0

Located within the Welsh settlement area of Argentina, Gaiman is just 10 mi (15 km) west of Trelew, mentioned earlier. Local attractions include a number of museums, including Regional Historical Museum, which explores the town’s past, it’s surprising Welsh connections, and the history of the Chubut River area. More unusual sights include El Desafío Park, which sits on the river bank and features recycled materials that have been transformed into new forms - such as a VW Beetle made up of cans.

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26. Rio Grande, Argentina

Rio Grande Argentina
Source: Photo by user NomadicPics(go to... used under CC BY 2.0

An angling paradise, Rio Grande is so closely linked to fly fishing. Check out the huge trout sculpture near its entrance. Indeed, it’s so big you may be tempted to grab a selfie alongside it. Non-anglers need not fret, however, as there are other attractions in the area, such as the sea lions and lighthouse of the Isla de Los Lobos just a little up the coast. Other attractions include the Reserva Natural Urbana - Laguna de Los Patos nature reserve, and a number of local museums. The latter includes the likes of Museo Histórico y Natural Monseñor Fagnano, and Museo Virginia Choquintel which explore the city’s history and is named after the last member of the indigenous local Selknam people who passed away in 1999.

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27. Trevelin, Argentina

Cabañas Trevelin nieve 166
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Guillep2k used under CC BY 3.0

Another Patagonian settlement with Welsh roots, the town of Trevelin - derived from the Welsh for “mill town” - sits amid the mountains of the Chubut region. Local attractions include the grave of Malacara, the horse of the founder of the town’s first flour mill, who saved his master when he and his travelling companions were attacked by indigenous people. That master, John Evans - who also became known for expeditions into the Pampas - is celebrated at Regional Historical Museum Molino Andes, where a replica of his mill exists. The town’s Bethel Chapel is one local example of chapels created by the Welsh settlers in Chubut Valley and beyond.

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28. Villa Llao Llao, Argentina

Llao LLao
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Nooperation10 used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Surrounded on three sides by water - the lakes of Perito Moreno and Nahuel Huapi - the stunning village of Villa Llao Llao makes the very most of alpine-style architecture and a location amid the mountains to create a picture postcard setting that itches to be photographed. Unsurprisingly, sightseeing is central to many local attractions, from the observation deck of Punto Panorámico - Circuito Chico, to the easy walking trail up to the summit of Cerro Llao Llao and its breathtaking vista. The village’s location also places it within easy reach of many outdoor activities in the Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi, while Bariloche is just a little way to the east along the lakeshore. Other local attractions include the Gothic-style chapel of Parroquia San Eduardo and the museum of Sendero de Los Arrayanes.

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29. Ushuaia, Argentina (from USD 24.0)

best places to visit in patagonia | ushuaia, argentina

Sitting near the ‘tip’ of South America amid the wild landscapes of Tierra del Fuego, Ushuaia is famed as the most southerly city in the world. It is a popular stopping off hub for those exploring Tierra del Fuego National Park, which is not just home to some spectacular scenery, but is also a wildlife spotter’s dream, with the waters and archipelago being home to everything from orcas, sea lions and seals, to penguins and more. Other attractions include the Cerro Castor ski area and narrow gauge End of the World steam train.

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Ushuaia: Guided Panoramic City Tour

Duration: 1.5 hour

4 reviews

Patagonia's many wonders await you

The seemingly infinite variety of the vast Patagonian landscape is enough to keep even the most active of travellers busy for decades. From majestic fjords and stunning glaciers, to the seemingly impossible spires of the Andean peaks and the stunning island archipelagos of Tierra del Fuego, you’ll be spoilt for choice when planning your trip. Where will you start first?

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
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Philip, a writer and photographer situated in the heart of the picturesque Scottish Highlands, is a seasoned professional journalist with a rich portfolio of contributions to various newspapers,...Read more

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