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How Many Days Do You Need In Patagonia?
To see Argentina and Chilean Patagonia properly, I would recommend a minimum of two weeks, with three being ideal.
However, if you only have a week, it can be done on a whistle-stop tour.
Here are my suggested itineraries:
- One Week In Patagonia – this is enough time to see El Calafate and El Chalten in Argentina, and briefly cross the border into Chile to see Torres Del Paine
- Two Weeks In Patagonia – this gives you a week on either side of the border. The perfect amount of time without having to rush
- Three Weeks In Patagonia – three weeks allows you to add in other stops such as Ushuaia and Bariloche in Argentina. or simply slow down and have extra days in each place.
- One Month In Patagonia – includes all the above-mentioned stops and then heading up to the lake district in Chile to Pucon.
How Long Do You Need For Argentine Patagonia
Patagonia in Argentina includes Bariloche all the way down to Ushuaia. This is 4 stops and several flights or buses.
Here’s what I recommend:
- One Week – This is enough time to visit El Calafate and EL Chalten
- 10 Days – enough to include Ushiaia or Bariloche
- Two Weeks – enough time to see all the stops listed above.
How Long Do You Need For Chilean Patagonia
Chilean Patagonia is slightly different to Argentina. The main stop and attraction is Torres Del Paine National Park and you can spend anywhere between 1-10 days in the park.
Here’s my suggestions:
- 2-3 days – less days is better for those of you who want to do day trips into the park. You can stay in Puerto Natales (the nearest town) and visit the park on separate days
- 6-7 days – you need to set aside a week minimum to complete the W-trek. This is the famous self-guided trek. The other days include a day before and after in Puerto Natales.
- 10 days or more – for the ultimate adventure, the O-trek can take between 8-12 days depending on where you stop within the park.
Patagonia Itineraries
One Week Patagonia Itinerary
This itinerary is perfect for those of you on a budget or short on time. You can do a whistle-stop tour of Argentinian Patagonia and then dip into Chile to visit Torres Del Paine National Park.
Here’s a breakdown of the itinerary:
- Day 1 – Buenos Aires
- Day 2-3 – El Calafate
- Day 4 – Day Trip To Torres Del Paine
- Day 5-6 – El Chalten
- Day 7 – Return to El Calafate / Buenos Aires
Day 1 – Buenos Aires
I hope you can dedicate a bit longer to Buenos Aires as it’s such a great city.
I wouldn’t do much with one day in the city. Maybe take a walking tour of Centro but probably best to just relax.
Book an early morning flight the next day to El Calafate.
Day 2-3 – El Calafate
People come to El Calafate to experience the sheer grandeur of the Perito Moreno Glacier. The glacier’s thunderous roars and awe-inspiring vistas will leave you speechless.
- Explore the charming town of El Calafate, situated on the shores of Lake Argentino. You can visit the Glaciarium to learn more about the glaciers in the region and the Laguna Nimez Reserve to see the indigenous bird species of Patagonia.
- On the next, head to Perito Moreno Glacier. There are 4 options to visit, but the big ice trek is often the most popular
Day 4 – Day Trip To Torres Del Paine
With only a week, you won’t be able to see Torres Del Paine properly. However, you can take a day trip across the border.
This is perfect for those of you who don’t enjoy multi-day treks and just want to see as much of the beauty of Patagonia as possible.
The tour includes transport across the border and back. The main activity of the day is a hike from Salto Grande to Mirador de Los Cuernos del Paine, on the shores of Lake Nordenskjold.
You’ll also stop at Lake Pehoé, the last viewpoint, overlooking the Cuernos del Paine and the French Valley.
Day 5-6 – El Chalten
Time to explore El Chaltén, the ” Trekking Capital of. Argentina, where you’ll find the iconic Mount Fitz Roy.
You have two options here. You can stay in El Calafate and use it as a base and take a day trip to El Chalten.
Or visit for two nights.
I prefer the latter. Use the first day as arrival and to wander the small town. On the second day, complete the Laguna De Los Tres trek, which is one of the best hikes in the world.
Day 7 – El Calafate / Buenos Aires
Take the 3-hour bus back to El Calafate and then fly back to Buenos Aires for your flight home.
How Much Would A Week Cost In Patagonia
I would budget $1000 for a week-long trip to Patagonia.
I recommend a budget of $50 a day for food and accommodation. The rest of the costs will be for flights, buses and tours.
The table below gives you a rough outline of costs:
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
|
Return Flight to El Calafate |
$250 |
|
Perito Moreno Glacier Bus + Ticket |
$40 |
|
Day Trip To Torres Del Paine |
$180 |
|
Return Bus To El Chalten |
$40 |
|
Daily Budget x 7 (food + accommodation) |
$350 |
|
TOTAL |
$860 |
I always then add a bit extra onto my budget recommendations. Better to be safe than sorry.
Also, it’s very difficult to give an accurate estimate of buses and flights. Sometimes you’ll find cheap ones, and if it’s peak season they might be more expensive.
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Two Week Patagonia Itinerary
This itinerary is perfect for those of you who love hiking and want to see the highlights of Patagonia. However, it is a bit tight so be warned. You may want to extend to 16 or 17 days.
Here’s a breakdown of the itinerary:
- Day 1 – Buenos Aires
- Day 2-3 – El Calafate
- Day 4-6 – El Chalten
- Day 7 – El Calafate > Puerto Natales
- Day 8 – Puerto Natales
- Day 9-13 – Torres Del Paine W-Trek
- Day 13 – Puerto Natales > Santiago
Day 1 – Buenos Aires
Follow the same suggestion as previous my itinerary with a walking tour of Centro and something fun in the evening like a Tango show.
If you have the time and want to stay longer in Buenos Aires, check out this itinerary post with more suggestions of what to do.
Day 2-3 – El Calafate
Again, these 2 day are the same as previous itinerary. If you want to explore some different options for getting to Perito Moreno Glacier, then check out this post.
I was with 3 friends and went for a private transfer.
Day 4-6 – El Chalten
With three days in El Chalten, you can experience the two best treks.
On your first day of arrival, relax and take it easy. Head up to Mirador Los Condores if you want for great views of the town.
On day 5, head for the Cerro Torre trail. Whilst it’s a long day, it’s a relatively flat trail so it won’t be as hard on the legs.
When you reach the shores of Laguna Torre, you’ll witness the jagged spires of CerroTorre up close-up and icebergs adrift in the glacial waters.
Save the hardest for last. Laguna De Los Tres on day 6 will cook your legs.
The final stretch is a challenging ascent, rewarding you with Laguna de Los Tres’ stunning turquoise waters and unmatched views of the iconic Fitzroy peak.
You also have the option to camp here overnight which has a number of benefits.
Firstly, it splits the challenging trek in two, so you have less walking to do. Secondly, you can watch up and watch the sunrise over the lake.
Day 7 – El Calafate / Puerto Natales
This is a full travel day.
Take the 3-hour bus back to El Calafate and then from here take the bus across the border to Puerto Natales.
I’d recommend getting the earliest bus possible and to be in El Calafate before midday. The journey to Puerto Natales can take up to 8 hours so you don’t want to arrive to late at night.
How To Get To Puerto Natales (Chile) From El Calafate
The journey between El Calafate and Puerto Natales typically takes around 5 to 6 hours by bus with an hour spent at the border crossing. To undertake this journey, follow these steps:
- Bus: Begin by taking a bus from El Calafate to the Chilean border town of Cerro Castillo. This leg of the trip takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on road conditions and border crossing procedures.
- Border Crossing: At the Cerro Castillo border crossing, you’ll need to go through customs and immigration. Make sure you have your passport and any necessary documents for both exiting Argentina and entering Chile.
- Bus to Puerto Natales: Once you’ve cleared the border, you can catch another bus from Cerro Castillo to Puerto Natales. This final leg of the journey takes about 1 to 2 hours.
Day 8 –Puerto Natales
Day 7 was a long day of travelling on buses and going straight into the W-trek the next day wouldn’t be ideal.
You’ll want a day in Puerto Natales to rest and prepare for the trek.
Three things you need to do:
- Buy your bus ticket to the park
- Buy your ferry ticket
- Sort out any last gear you need
Day 9-13 – Torres Del Paine National Park
If you’re a trekking enthusiast, the W Trek is the best option to explore the best of Torres Del Paine.
Named for its distinctive ‘W’ shape, this iconic 5-day, 67km trek takes you through some of the park’s most jaw-dropping landscapes.
From the mesmerizing Grey Glacier to the towering peaks of the Torres del Paine, each day is an epic adventure.
This is my recommended option for visiting the park. Rather than take single-day treks into the park, spend 5 days camping in it and moving from highlight to highlight.
The level of immersion, connection to nature and escape from the world make this a truly unforgettable experience.
Day 14 - Puerto Natales / Santiago
You’ll return to the town of Puerto Natales via bus. You can stay the night here if you want or fly from Puerto Natales up to Santiago.
In Santiago, if you have time in the evening, visit the Sky Costerna for incredible views.
Or alternatively, you can cross the border back or El Calafate and return to Buenos Aires if you’re return flight is from there. Booking single flights in and out of different countries is more expensive.
How Much Would Two Weeks Cost In Patagonia
I would budget $1500 for a two week trip to Patagonia.
You can cut this down if you camp in Torres Del Paine. I’ve estimated a cost of around $50 a night which is for the refugios but if you bring your own tent, you only need to pay for renting the space which is a lot cheaper.
Food is also expensive in the park if you’re eating at the refugios. You can bring your own food and cooking equipment if you prefer.
Here’s a breakdown of expenses for two weeks in Patagonia:
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
|
Single Flight to El Calafate |
$150 |
|
Perito Moreno Glacier Bus + Ticket |
$40 |
|
Return Bus To El Chalten |
$40 |
|
Bus To Puerto Natales |
$50 |
|
W Trek Accommodation (5 nights) |
$250 |
|
W Trek Food |
$150 |
|
Daily Budget x 9 (food + accommodation) |
$350 |
|
Flight to Santiago |
$150 |
|
TOTAL |
$1280 |
*this are rough estimates of costs and will change with the season
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Three Week Patagonia Itinerary
This itinerary is perfect for those of you who love hiking and want to see the highlights of Patagonia, but also slow things down a bit.
The above two-week itinerary is intense and you’ll be on the move a lot. Three weeks gives you extra days in each place to slow down and enjoy it.
Here’s a breakdown of the itinerary:
- Day 1-3 – Buenos Aires
- Day 4-5 – El Calafate
- Day 6-10 – El Chalten
- Day 11 – El Calafate / Puerto Natales
- Day 12 – Puerto Natales
- Day 13-17 – Torres Del Paine W-Trek
- Day 18 – Puerto Natales
- Day 19-21 – Santiago
This itinerary is the same as the two week one outlined below but just slower and with extra days in each place. I highly recommend this as it will be a lot more enjoyable.
No one wants to be running around and stressing out catching buses and flights every other day.
How Much Would Three Weeks Cost In Patagonia
I would budget $1800 for a three week trip to Patagonia.
As this itinerary is the same as above, the only extra cost is the food and accommodation for the extra week.
Here’s a breakdown of expenses for three weeks in Patagonia:
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
|
Single Flight to El Calafate |
$150 |
|
Perito Moreno Glacier Bus + Ticket |
$40 |
|
Return Bus To El Chalten |
$40 |
|
Bus To Puerto Natales |
$50 |
|
W Trek Accommodation (5 nights) |
$250 |
|
W Trek Food |
$150 |
|
Daily Budget x 16 (food + accommodation) |
$800 |
|
Flight to Santiago |
$150 |
|
TOTAL |
$1630 |
One Month Patagonia Itinerary
This itinerary is perfect for those of you want to complete Patagonia! You’ll have stopped at every major city and highlight, and you can go home feeling satisfied.
The added stops of Bariloche and Ushuaia will give you the full experience.
Here’s a breakdown of the itinerary:
- Day 1-4 – Buenos Aires
- Day 5-7 – Ushuaia
- Day 8-9 – El Calafate
- Day 10-14 – El Chalten
- Day 15 – El Calafate
- Day 16 – Puerto Natales
- Day 17-21 – Torres Del Paine
- Day 22 – Puerto Natales
- Day 23 – El Calafate
- Day 24–28 – Bariloche
- Day 29 – Buenos Aires
Day 1-4 – Buenos Aires
With 4 days in the capital instead of one, I can recommend some things to do!
Buenos Aires is known as the “Paris of South America,” as it feels like you’re visiting a European capital.
Here are some things to do on your first day:
- Take a leisurely stroll through the historic Plaza de Mayo, surrounded by iconic buildings like the Casa Rosada.
- Explore the charming San Telmo neighbourhood, known for its cobblestone streets, bustling market, and vibrant street art.
- Enjoy a traditional Argentine dinner at one of the local parrillas (steak restaurants) or try Argentine pizza, a much thicker and cheesier pizza.
Day 5-7 – Ushuaia
Ushuaia, nestled at the southernmost tip of Argentina, is a captivating destination often referred to as the “End of the World.”
This charming city offers a unique blend of breathtaking natural beauty, from its snow-capped mountains and pristine waters to its rich history as a gateway to Antarctica, making it an irresistible destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Here’s how you should spend the next 3 days:
- Explore the southernmost city in the world and visit the End of the World Museum.
- Take a boat tour of the Beagle Channel, see penguins on Martillo Island, and enjoy stunning views.
- Go hiking in Tierra Del Fuego National Park
Day 8-22 -
Follow the same tips as the previous itineraries
Day 23 – El Calafate > Bariloche
After a day of rest in Puerto Natales, cross the border again to El Calafate.
From here you can either stay the night or take an evening flight to Bariloche. Up to you.
Day 24-28 – Bariloche
Nestled amidst the picturesque Andes Mountains, Bariloche offers a stunning display of natural beauty.
From snow-capped peaks to crystal-clear lakes and lush forests, the landscape is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
Begin your journey by getting to grips with the centre of this beautiful town.
A walking your will take you on a wander through its charming streets where you can sample local cuisine, admire Swiss-style architecture, and learn more about the history of the town.
After that, make sure you fit in two of the best activities, a hike to Refugio Frey and biking the Circuito Chico.
How Much Would One Month Cost In Patagonia
I would budget $3000 for a month trip to Patagonia.
This itinerary includes a lot of single flights that can cost anywhere between $50-150 depending on when you book.
The biggest costs is food and accommodation for the whole month.
Here’s a breakdown of expenses for a month in Patagonia:
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
|
Single Flight to Ushuaia |
$150 |
|
Single Flight to El Calafate |
$150 |
|
Perito Moreno Glacier Bus + Ticket |
$40 |
|
Return Bus To El Chalten |
$40 |
|
Bus To Puerto Natales |
$50 |
|
W Trek Accommodation (5 nights) |
$250 |
|
W Trek Food |
$150 |
|
Bus To El Calafate |
$50 |
|
Flight to Bariloche |
$150 |
|
Flight to Buenos Aires |
$150 |
|
Daily Budget x 23 (food + accommodation) |
$1150 |
|
Flight to Santiago |
$150 |
|
TOTAL |
$2480 |
How Many Days In Patagonia Is Enough?
Here are some suggestions if you only have a specific amount of days:
If you want to know how many days you need in South America, check out the post below:
Can you do Patagonia in 5 days?
No is the simple answer if you define Patagonia as Argentina and Chile. It’s better to focus on one country.
For example, El Calafate and El Chalten in Argentina.
If you really felt the need to see both sides of the border, I’d recommend a couple of days in El Calafate and then a couple in Puerto Natales with day trips into Torres Del Paine National Park.
Is A Week Enough In Patagonia?
A week is only enough to really see one side properly, or a whilste stop tour of the highlights in Chile and Argentina.
For example, you could fly down to Torres Del Paine from Santiago.
Spend one or two days in Torres Del paine National Park.
Then cross the border to El Calafate to see the Perito Moreno Glacier. Then fly up to Buenos Aires fore flying home.
However, sticking to one country is better as you’ll save money with return flights and flying in and out of the same place
Is 10 Days Enough In Patagonia?
10 days is enough to see the highlights. You can see El Calafate, El Chalten and Torres Del Paine with 10 days.
Is Patagonia better in Chile or Argentina?
In terms of beauty, they are both very similar. Vast steppes, impressive mountain ranges and ice blue glacial lakes everywhere.
However, there are reasons why people may prefer one over the other when it comes to activities and hiking.
- Argentina – better for day tours and general exploration. You can take private guided tours to Perito Moreno, El Chalten and even into Torres Del Paine if you want.
- Chile – Torres del Paine is perfect for hikers who want to do multi-day treks. The 5-day W-trek isn’t for everyone but if you love adventure then this is for you.
Why is Patagonia trip so expensive?
A trip to Patagonia is expensive for several reasons:
- Far south so it requires internal flights which can cost $100-200 return.
- Prices for food and accommodation can be expensive in the summer as its peak season
- Day trips to Perito Moreno are popular and tickets for buses, boats and entrance to the park add up
- Torres Del Paine is a 5-day trek, but you still need to pay for the accommodation in the park and if you go for refugios, it will cost round $50 a night
“We ended up with a better itinerary than anything a travel agent suggested – and without the hefty price tag!
Jerry & Maria – 5 Weeks In South America
Planning a trip to
Struggling with any of this?
✔ Don’t know where to start planning
✔ Spending hours researching… and still feeling stuck
✔ Want freedom, not a rigid tour
✔ Don’t want to spend $5,000+ on a travel agent
You don’t have to figure it out solo.
I help travellers like you plan custom South America trips that are efficient, affordable, and totally personalised.
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