Patagonia Posts from South America

Puerto Montt – Puerto Natales Route on the Navimag Ferry

Traveling by ferry along the Patagonian fjords is one of the most unique journeys in Chile—and indeed all of South America. It’s slow-paced travel at its finest, where days unfold at the rhythm of the sea. Passengers gaze out at towering snow-capped mountains, emerald fjords, remote islands, and immense glaciers, while dolphins, sea lions, and seabirds often make appearances along the way. All of this can be admired in comfort, whether from the ship’s open decks or from the warmth of your own cabin window. This extraordinary route is made possible by Navimag Ferries, a Chilean company that has been …

Transmarchilay ferry on board Chiloe crossing

Travel Resources

All About the Ferry to and from Chiloé Island

The most popular entry to Chiloé, the mystical island of northern Patagonia in Chile, is by ferry. Chiloé is linked to the Chilean mainland by a scenic but short ferry route through the Chacao Canal. There is a bridge being built over the canal (expected to be finished in 2028), but until that, the ferry remains. Ferry route to Chiloé island All ferries run through the Chacao Canal (or Canal de Chacao in Spanish). On the mainland side, the gateway port is situated in Pargua (about 60km/37mi southwest from Puerto Montt). In Chiloé, the port town is called Chacao. Both …

17 Best Day Hikes in Patagonia (without a Guide)

Dotted with glaciers, snowy peaks, and pristine wilderness, the vast landscapes of Patagonia are a dream destination for hiking enthusiasts, nature lovers and adventure seekers. While multi-day treks are popular, exploring the region through day hikes offers a unique and accessible way to experience its remote beauty. In this post, we recommend the 17 best day hikes in Patagonia, of varied lengths and difficulty levels – through different national parks in both Argentina and Chile. This post about day hikes in Patagonia contains affiliate links. We’re not selling anything ourselves – we just help products and services we find great. …

Carpinteros trail Tamango Patagonia National Park

Great Outdoors Travel Resources

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 …

Great Outdoors

Beginners’ Guide to W Trek: an Unforgettable Hike in Patagonia

The W Trek in Patagonia counts among the most popular hikes in South America, drawing thousands of visitors every year. The area offers breathtaking landscapes of glaciers, icy fjords and charismatic mountains; so it’s natural that both beginners and experienced hikers dream of completing it. Although it’s a multi-day and moderately strenuous trek, even people with little hiking experience can challenge themselves and enjoy the scenery. So here’s a comprehensive travel guide to help all of you beginner hikers tackle the W Trek! Located in Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park, in the region of Magallanes, the W Trek takes …

Wooden walkways of Caleta Tortel waterfront

City Visits

Caleta Tortel: Hidden Gem of Patagonia, Chile

Nestled in the Aysén region of Chilean Patagonia, Caleta Tortel possesses a unique atmosphere. The quaint settlement is often overlooked by travelers, yet it’s regularly listed as one of Chile’s prettiest towns, no less. Those who venture to this remote corner of the world are rewarded with stunning natural scenery, unique architectural designs, and the serenity of the Patagonian life. So let’s explore why Caleta Tortel is worth visiting, the best things to do in and around, where to stay, and how to get there. Jump to: Where is Caleta Tortel | Reasons to visit | Weather | Things to …

Travel Resources

All About the Ferry from Puerto Natales to Caleta Tortel

Believe me, traveling on a boat along the fjords in the south of Chilean Patagonia is a memorable experience. It rings of slow-paced adventure surrounded by a stunning landscape. It’s more sustainable and way more scenic compared to plane travel; and cheaper too, if we take into account the cost of accommodation and meals for those days. Here’s all you need to know about the inexpensive Tabsa ferry between Puerto Natales and Caleta Tortel. Jump to: Route | Booking | Costs | Duration | Timetable & distances Sleeping & eating | Entertainment | Sights Ferry Puerto Natales – Caleta Tortel …

Great Outdoors

🇨🇱 Hiker’s Guide to the Patagonia National Park, Chile

Of all the protected areas in the Chilean South, the Patagonia National Park might be the most charismatic. Created as a private charity project, it’s kept a pristine touch, almost a primeval flair. The infrastructure is scarce, but with a bit of prep, you’ll love exploring this mythical land. This post is here to help! We’re telling you all you need to know to go hiking in the Patagonia National Park, Chile: day hikes and multi-day treks, campsites, cost, how to get there and more. This Patagonia National Park guide contains affiliate links. We’re not selling anything ourselves – we …

Great Outdoors

The Complete Guide to Torres del Paine Campsites (2022)

Dreams of wild landscapes and soul searching are almost at hand! Chile’s most visited and most wonderful national park in Patagonia is calling you by your name. But now comes the unnerving part of choosing and booking your campsites in Torres del Paine, weighing the different camping options – and making sure you’re well prepared, to make the best of your visit. I went through all this in March 2022. So I’m here to help with this full list of campsites within the park, descriptions, operators, and my best tips specifically for Torres del Paine. Jump to: Campsites operators | …

Landscape during the Base of Torres hike

Great Outdoors

O Circuit: Patagonia’s Best Hike in Torres del Paine

Every hiking enthusiast has their own dream trail. After I first travelled in South America in 2018, I was dying to discover the nature of the Far South. Torres del Paine National Park, and particularly the O circuit, Patagonia’s most amazing multi-day hike, made it to the very top of my list. That dream came true in 2022 – along with unforgettable memories and many lessons learned. In this post, I share all the practical information you’ll need to ease up the pain of the preparation and make your hike the best possible: length, sites, tips, and my detailed itinerary …