12 Best Destinations + Tips for Backpacking Patagonia

Are you ready to explore the untamed beauty of Patagonia? Beware, fellow traveller. This vast region of rugged landscapes, pristine glaciers and unique wildlife is one of our planet’s last treasures. It beckons sturdy hikers, adventure seekers, backpackers and nature lovers, speaking directly to the bottom of their souls… 

We want you to make the most of your backpacking trip in Patagonia, so we’ve packed this guide with a lot of practical info and (hopefully) all the answers you’re looking for. We’ll also introduce you to the 12 most incredible places you should absolutely not miss in Patagonia. So let’s sail on!

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Why Patagonia?  |  Activities  |  Patagonia orientation  | 12 best Patagonia destinations | Getting in and around Patagonia
Accommodation  |  Best time to go  |  Budget  | Patagonia travel essentials
Backpacking Patagonia FAQ

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Why backpack Patagonia?

Patagonia is a great region to backpack, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned backpacker. There are several very good reasons to travel in Patagonia. Here is the list of those that speak particularly to us:

• Hikers and nature lovers’ paradise: this relatively low-height part of the Andes range provides a perfect place to trek through breathtaking mountains, valleys, lagoons, and glaciers.
• Safety: while South America has a kind of bad rep due to the high crime rate in some cities/countries, Patagonia is very safe. People are very friendly in their low-density towns where crime hardly exists.
• Traveling alone: due to lesser safety concerns, Patagonia can be backpacked alone, whether as a male or a female traveller. While generally it’s not advised to attempt hikes alone, many popular hiking trails see many hikers, so it’s easy to find a hiking partner.
• Independency: in general, it’s not hard to backpack Patagonia independently, that is without a tour or a guide. This is true for both traveling between towns and for hikes, as trails are usually well signposted and well covered by maps/apps.
• No need for a permit: traveling and hiking in Patagonia doesn’t require permit, so once in the region, it’s perfectly possible to plan as you go, in a spontaneous manner.

Activities in Patagonia

The most popular activities in Patagonia are related to nature – which is not a surprise. These are the activities you can engage in:

• Day hikes
• Multi-day hikes
• Glacier trekking
• Boat tour/cruise among the fjords
• Wildlife watching (penguins, whales)
• Visiting picturesque lookouts
• Camping
• Cycling
• Road tripping

Backpacking Patagonia: Orientation

Covering the South of both Chile and Argentina, this vast expanse of wild beauty is framed by two oceans and sits across the longest mountain range in the world.

The majestic Andes Mountains add a dramatic backdrop to a backpacking adventure, contributing to the region’s diverse topography, shaping its iconic glaciers, turquoise lakes, and towering peaks.

Areas of Patagonia

The area known as Patagonia encompasses 260,000 square miles/673,400 km2 between the two countries and is commonly divided into 2 parts: northern Patagonia and southern Patagonia.

Each of these areas boasts at least one top attraction that makes it well-known and provides a good reason to visit.

Northern Patagonia

Northern Patagonia in Argentina is called “Lake District” and stretches from San Martin de los Andes to El Bolsón. The main landmarks include also the town of Bariloche, Volcan Lanín and the Seven-Lakes Road.

Chile’s northern Patagonia corresponds to the “Los Lagos” region, stretching along the Carretera Austral from Puerto Montt to Vila O’Higgins. The main landmarks are Cochamo, Hornopiren National Park, Queulat National Park, the Marble Caves (Catedral de Marmol) and Patagonia National Park.

The Carretera Austral ends in Villa O’Higgins; to go further south, you’ll have to take a ferry boat or a flight. More info and links further below.

Southern Patagonia

Southern Patagonia in Argentina stretches from Esquel until the very southern tip, Tierra del Fuego, the “land of fire”. (Expensive) boat trips also reach the mysterious Antarctica.

The main landmarks in Argentina’s Southern Patagonia are: Perito Moreno glacier, Mount Fitz Roy, the small town of El Chaltén and Tierra del Fuego, with Ushuaia as its biggest town.

Chile’s Southern Patagonia is marked by Torres del Paine National Park, the single biggest hiking attraction in the Chilean South. You can reach it from the towns of Puerto Natales or Punta Arenas. Chile also has a share of Tierra del Fuego, but it’s a very remote place with little to no infrastructure.

The 2 iconic roads of Patagonia

Patagonia presents two iconic routes that promise unforgettable backpacking trips:

• In Chile, the Carretera Austral winds through remote landscapes, passing ancient forests, cascading waterfalls, and hidden fjords. This (at some sections) gravel road provides access to some of Patagonia’s hidden gems, offering a front-row seat to the untamed beauty that defines the region.

Check out our Road trip on the Carretera Austral for a great backpacking route!

• Meanwhile, on the Argentine side, the RN40 road traces a historic route through the Andes, revealing the stark beauty of the Patagonian steppe. This legendary highway stretches from the northernmost reaches of Argentina to the southernmost tip, offering travellers a chance to witness the changing landscapes and experience the heart of Patagonia.

Best destinations for a Patagonia backpacking trip

1. Torres del Paine National Park 📍southern Patagonia, Chile

Undoubtedly the crown jewel of Patagonia, Torres del Paine National Park is Chile’s iconic natural gem and a backpacker’s paradise. Its two famous hikes, the W Trek and the O Circuit, showcase the colossal granite towers, serene lakes, and glaciers.

Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing landscapes as you hike through the diverse ecosystems, keeping an eye out for guanacos. We promise that camping under the star-studded sky near Grey Glacier is an experience that will linger in your memories. The nearest town in Puerto Natales, however it’s also possible to visit from Punta Arenas.

Start planning! Read all about hiking the W Trek and O circuit in Torres del Paine.

2. El Chaltén, Argentina 📍 southern Patagonia, Argentina

Known as the ‘Trekking Capital of Argentina’, the village of El Chaltén is a real haven for hikers. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Fitz Roy and Cerro Torres mountains, it gives direct access to Los Glaciares National Park.

The trails here cater to all skill levels, offering a range of day hikes and longer treks, perfect for any Patagonia backpacking trip. Admire the Viedma glacier and the electric-blue waters of Laguna Capri; and if you’re up for a challenge, embark on the Laguna de los Tres trek for a postcard-worthy view of Mount Fitz Roy.

3. Perito Moreno Glacier 📍southern Patagonia, Argentina

A colossal river of ice, the Perito Moreno Glacier is certainly one of Patagonia’s most awe-inspiring sights. It’s also part of Los Glaciares National Park and is accessible from the town of El Calafate.

Marvel at the sheer magnitude of this glacier as it calves into Lake Argentino, creating a spectacle of crashing ice. You can take a boat tour to witness the glacier up close, or strap on crampons for an unforgettable ice trekking experience.

Read more about Perito Moreno in our list of favourite hikes in South America.

4. Ushuaia 📍 southern Patagonia, Argentina

Known as the ‘End of the World,’ Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world and the gateway to Antarctica. The surrounding Tierra del Fuego National Park is a haven for many backpackers, offering trails that lead to spectacular viewpoints overlooking the Beagle Channel.

Sail through the southernmost fjords or take a trip to the nearby penguin colonies for a unique wildlife encounter.

Explore more hiking trails throughout Argentina

5. Puerto Natales 📍 southern Patagonia, Chile

Nestled on the shores of the Ultima Esperanza Sound (Last Hope Sound), Puerto Natales serves as the main gateway to Torres del Paine National Park, the number one Patagonia backpacking destination.

But before embarking on your trekking adventures, explore the quaint town and enjoy fresh seafood from local markets. We absolutely recommend the breathtaking boat trip to the Balmaceda and Serrano glaciers for a day filled with natural beauty.

Find out all the best things to do in Puerto Natales

6. Bariloche 📍 northern Patagonia, Argentina

Located in the northern region of Argentine Patagonia, also called “Lake District”, San Carlos de Bariloche is known for its stunning alpine landscapes and Swiss architecture (and chocolate!).

This charming resort town spreads along the shore of the Nahuel Huapi Lake and attracts many outdoor enthusiasts from all over Argentina, who explore the trails within the Nahuel Huapi National Park. The highlights include the Cerro Catedral mountain and the challenging trek to Refugio Frey.

During the winter months, Bariloche transforms into a winter wonderland, offering excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities on the slopes of Cerro Catedral. The city also boasts a vibrant nightlife and yummy local specialties (have I mentioned the chocolate?).

Ready to go? Check out the best hiking routes around Bariloche!

7. Chiloé Island 📍 northern Patagonia, Chile

A magical realm off the coast of northern Patagonia Chile, Chiloé Island is a place where folklore and nature converge in harmony. Known for its distinctive wooden churches, rolling hills, and quaint fishing villages, Chiloé offers a unique cultural and natural experience.

Explore the stilted palafitos in Castro, visit the UNESCO-listed Chiloé churches, and embark on a boat tour to spot the iconic blue whales that frequent the waters. You can also hike through Chiloé National Park, immersing yourself in lush forests and along the rugged coastline.

We fell in love with Chiloe – find out why and what to expect as a backpacker.

8. Pumalín Park 📍 northern Patagonia, Chile

For those seeking natural serenity, Pumalín Park, in the north of Patagonia, is still a hidden paradise. It offers a diverse range of landscapes, including lush Valdivian temperate rainforests, cascading waterfalls and pristine fjords.

Don’t expect much infrastructure on-site, which makes the experience even more beautiful. Hike through the evergreen forests, marvel at turquoise lakes, and expect an immersive dive into nature’s embrace. The closest town where you should base yourself is Chaiten.

Explore more hiking trails in Chile

9. Marble Caves 📍 northern Patagonia, Chile

A surreal natural wonder on the shores of General Carrera Lake, the Marble Caves (also called Marble Chapel) are a testament to the sculpting power of water.

Accessible by boat from Puerto Río Tranquilo, or with a tour from the nearest city Coyahique, these mesmerizing caverns showcase swirling patterns of vibrant blue and white marble. The experience is truly otherworldly, making it a must-visit for any backpacker exploring the Chilean side of Patagonia.

10. Queulat National Park 📍 northern Patagonia, Chile

Queulat National Park, set along the Carretera Austral road, is a hidden gem boasting lush rainforests, hanging glaciers, and pristine rivers. The highlight is the Ventisquero Colgante (Hanging Glacier), accessible via a picturesque trail that meanders through dense forests.

We swear that seeing this colossal ice mass hanging from the cliffs is an unforgettable sight, as you breathe in the fresh, crisp air of Patagonia. Coyahique, the nearest city is a good base to visit this national park on a tour.

Discover the best National Parks in Chile

11. Punta Arenas 📍 southern Patagonia, Chile

As the southernmost airport on the Chilean mainland, Punta Arenas is a vibrant gateway to the wonders of Patagonia. So it’s more than likely that you’ll pass by this city on your backpacking trip in Patagonia.

Visit the historic sites, such as the Plaza Muñoz Gamero, and embark on a boat tour to Magdalena Island to witness a massive penguin colony. For a panoramic view of the city and surrounding landscapes, climb the Mirador Cerro de la Cruz.

12. Cape Froward 📍 southern Patagonia, Chile

For the ultimate off-the-grid adventure, venture to Cabo Froward, the southernmost point of the continental Americas. Make sure you pack enough food and water, and are properly dressed!

Accessible via a challenging hike, Cabo Froward rewards intrepid backpackers with sweeping views of the Strait of Magellan. You’ll stand right at the edge of the world, surrounded by untamed wilderness and the roaring waters of the Southern Ocean.

How to get to Patagonia

There are no, or very few international flights to Patagonia. So you will probably fly in from one of the two capital cities: Buenos Aires (Argentina) or Santiago (Chile).

Patagonia airports in Argentina

• Bariloche (north)
• El Calafate (south)
• Ushuaia (south)

Patagonia airports in Chile

• Puerto Montt (north)
• Balmaceda (north)
• Punta Arenas (south)

Naturally, it’s also possible to travel by bus from other parts of the countries, provided you’re ready to tackle a looong bus journey. We’ve written a list of tips to help you survive those long journeys.

Many countries’ citizens (eg. USA, countries of the EU) get a visa upon arrival, and no need to arrange it beforehand . Of course, when planning your trip, check on your country’s official website.

Getting around Patagonia

In Chile

Land travel along the Carretera Austral presents several viable options, whether you opt for a rental car, public buses, or hitchhiking.

Bus timetables are usually not available online, but you’ll find them at bus stations/airports. For more information on traveling by bus on the Carretera Austral, check out our Carretera Austral post. It includes an extensive section with hands-on tips about bus travel.

Given that the road doesn’t extend all the way south, a more picturesque and environmentally friendly alternative involves taking a ferry boat. A voyage spans from Caleta Torel in the north to Puerto Natales in the south and takes approximately 3 days with local ferry company, Tabsa. Notably, ferries don’t operate every day, so make sure you plan your itinerary in advance.

Alternatively, Navimag, another company, provides a more upscale ferry experience between Puerto Montt and Puerto Natales, with a duration of 4 days; further details can be found here.

In Argentina

In Argentina, the RN 40 traverses the entirety of Patagonia, making a complete Patagonian road trip entirely feasible. Bus services also operate along this route, and you can find schedules by referring to the bus timetables available here. Additionally, we’ve gathered some helpful insights for bus travel in South America based on our experiences in 2019.

Border-crossing between Chile and Argentina

There are several borders between the 2 countries in Patagonia, both in the northern and the southern parts. On  Argentina official site (in Spanish), you’ll find all the borders of Argentina, including those shared with Chile in Patagonia. If you are planning to cross the border, don’t forget to check whether they are open and their opening times – especially the smaller ones are not open 24hrs.

Borders of Patagonia will likely be in one of the below provinces in Argentina:

• Neuquén Province
• Chubut Province
• Río Negro Province
• Santa Cruz Province
• Tierra del Fuego Province

Borders of Patagonia will likely be in one of the below regions in Chile:

• Los Lagos Region
• Los Ríos Region
• Magallanes Region
• Aysén Region

Budgeting your transportation

If you’re on a budget, a crucial factor to consider is the cost of air travel to Patagonia.

In Argentina

In Argentina, budget airlines are non-existent, with only the primary carrier being Aerolineas Argentinas. If your journey to Patagonia begins in Buenos Aires from an international location, it’s likely you’ll be flying with this national carrier.

For those with the luxury of time, opting for road travel presents an economical solution and is arguably the most sustainable means of traversing Patagonia. The RN 40 road extends all the way to southern Patagonia, allowing for a subsequent brief ferry voyage to Isla del Fuego and concluding the journey to Ushuaia on the RN 3.

In Chile

Chile, on the other hand, boasts budget airlines such as JetSmart and Sky Airline, providing cost-effective fares from Santiago to Puerto Montt, Balmaceda, and Punta Arenas. Your gateway to Chilean Patagonia will likely be Santiago, as there are virtually no direct international flights to Puerto Montt or Punta Arenas.

Given the absence of a continuous road in Chile, your options include either flying or embarking on a picturesque ferry ride. It’s helpful to thoroughly compare prices when planning your Patagonia trip, as the ferry might prove more economical than a low-cost airline, especially when factoring in potential additional fees for checked luggage.

In both Argentina and Chile, bus transportation is generally far more economical than renting a car.

Accommodation options in Patagonia

In general, you’ll find the below accommodation types throughout the towns of Patagonia:

Best time to go backpacking in Patagonia

While the weather in Patagonia can be unpredictable, the best time to embark on your backpacking Patagonia trip is during the Southern Hemisphere’s summer, from November until March/April. During this period, temperatures are milder, and the trails are more accessible, but more busy as well. However, be prepared for sudden weather changes, and pack layers to accommodate the region’s diverse climates.

The warmest months are January and February, and in these months popular hiking routes (such as W trek in Torres del Paine) get crowded with hikers, and accommodations are full. I prefer traveling in shoulder season, to avoid the biggest crowds.

Some national parks close during the winter months (May-October), due to snow making the paths unpracticable. But other national parks or mountains are geared towards winter adventurers as well. Bariloche (Argentina) for example is known for skiing, and some tour companies organize winter expeditions to Torres del Paine.

In general, Northern Patagonia is warmer and wetter, compared to the south, which is cold even in the summer.

Costs breakdown of a Patagonia backpacking trip

To give you a bit of an idea of what costs to expect, here’s the breakdown of the budget I actually spent for my 3-week Patagonia trip from Europe to Chile, updated for the 2023/24 season:

• Flight return ticket Lisbon (Portugal) – Santiago (Chile): 850 USD
• Flight from Santiago to Punta Arenas (south Patagonia, Chile): 75 USD
• Bus from Punta Arenas to Puerto Natales (gateway to Torres del Paine): 9 USD
• Torres del Paine entrance + campsites booked for the O-circuit (9 days): 149 USD
• Ferry from Puerto Natales to Caleta Torel: 151 USD
• Flight from Balmaceda (Chile) to Santiago: 80 USD
• Other Patagonia national park entrance fees + camping: 66 USD
• Travel insurance: 140 USD
• Bus travel in south Patagonia: depending on the distance – on the Carretera Austral between towns it was 10 USD for a 4-hr journey
• Hostal accommodation (room for 2 people with shared bathroom): 51 USD

So the total for 3 weeks, including 8 days in Torres del Paine + bus on Carretera Austral + hostel for 13 days: 1826 USD

In general, everything is more expensive in Patagonia than in the rest of Chile or Argentina: accommodation, food, and transportation. This is due to the remoteness of the area, where supplies must travel a long way.

Travel Essentials for your Patagonia backpacking trip

Ensure you’re well-equipped to embrace the wild beauty of this region with a carefully curated list of travel essentials.

A sturdy and comfortable backpack is your first ally, accompanied by a reliable pair of waterproof and breathable hiking boots to conquer varied terrains – even if you’re not planning to do serious hikes.

Layering is key, so pack lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing to adapt to Patagonia’s unpredictable weather. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to make sure you’re ready for everything Patagonia throws your way:

1. Backpack (40-60L)
2. Hiking Boots (waterproof)
3. Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
4. Hat
5. Sunglasses with UV Protection
6. Quick-Dry Clothing (long-sleeve shirts, moisture-wicking T-shirts, convertible pants)
7. Rain Jacket
8. Insulating Layer (fleece or down jacket)
9. Hydration System or Water Bottle
10. Trekking Poles if you are planning to hike
11. Headlamp or Flashlight
12. Insect Repellent
13. First Aid Kit
14. Travel Towel
15. Power Bank
16. Camera or Smartphone for Capturing Memories
17. Dry Bags to Protect Electronics
18. Travel Adapters for Charging Devices
19. Map and/or GPS device

Frequently Asked Questions

How does backpacking Patagonia differ from other backpacking trips?

If I compare my Patagonia backpacking trip with any other backpacking trips I’ve done, I’d say the biggest difference is that everything here is planned around hiking, while usually, hiking is just one of the activities I do.

Another difference is that Patagonia uses primarily cash instead of credit cards, and ATMs are sparse. So make sure to withdraw enough money while you’re still in bigger towns/cities.

Can beginners hike Patagonia?

Absolutely! Patagonia counts many national parks with easy day hikes and short multi-day hikes, so beginners can find suitable trails. Also, since altitude is not high in the region, there’s no need to count with acclimatization.

The area is covered well on both paper maps –that you can buy in advance or acquire at national park entrances– and apps like wikiloc or maps.me.

Check out the Patagonia National Park (in southern Patagonia, Chile) with many beautiful day hikes and easy trails.

Can you travel Patagonia cheaply?

Traveling in Patagonia is generally more expensive than backpacking in other parts of Chile or Argentina. The reason is the remoteness, making food and commodities pricier.

Although it’s not possible to skip national park entrance prices, there are some things you can do to keep your budget low:

1. Travel during the shoulder-season instead of the high season, when both national parks and accommodations usually have lower prices.
2. Choose to enter the same national park multiple times, instead of visiting several national parks. The cost of the multi-day ticket is cheaper than adding up single-day entrances from multiple national parks.
3. Plan the majority of your backpacking time in Argentina rather than Chile. Or, at least, do your shopping there, as Argentina is considerably cheaper.
4. Stick to bus transportation or hitchhike.
5. Bring your own tent and opt for camping (prepare for cold nights though).
6. Buy the most expensive food items / non-perishable food items in cities like Punta Arenas, Coyahique, and Bariloche, instead of smaller places, where things are more expensive.

Should I travel in Chile or Argentina?

Due to the extensive area and time constraints (2 or 3 weeks holiday), many travellers visit only one country, either Chile or Argentina.

However, the trick isn’t to choose one country, but rather one area of Patagonia (north or south) and visit it in both countries. That’s how you’ll limit travel durations and make the most of your time.

There are indeed many borders between the two countries. On this site (in Spanish), you’ll find all the borders of Argentina, including those shared with Chile in Patagonia.

On a general note though, Chile is more expensive than its neighbour, and the national parks seem to be better maintained. The entrance to most national parks in Argentina is free.

How long should my trip in Patagonia last?

Rather than staying within one country and travel lengthwise, it makes more sense to visit either the north or the south of Patagonia, crossing the border.

I recommend a minimum of 2 weeks to see the landmarks in the North, and at least 3 weeks for the South, which is wilder, and where travelling might prove lengthy.

If your goal is to see and hike both northern and southern Patagonia, you should count with 4 weeks as a bare minimum.

Is flying between northern and southern Patagonia an option?

In Chile, there’s no road between north and south Patagonia; so you can only choose between flight or ferry. For links to the relevant companies, see the travelling section above.

In Argentina, you can stick to more sustainable transportation, as the RN 40 road runs through the entire Patagonia.

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