If you're looking for inspiration for your summer vacation in Patagonia, you're in the right place! With its breathtaking landscapes, Patagonia is always an excellent destination to discover unique natural wonders that will leave you in awe. 

Here are 5 destinations to visit in Patagonia this summer and what to do in each one—a simple way to organize your trip and enjoy a perfect season exploring the best of the "Land of Giants." 



Find here 5 Destinations to Visit Patagonia in Summer and what to do in each one of them, get to know the best of the “Land of the Giants”.Exploring Patagonia is one of those trips you must experience at least once in your lifetime / source



1. El Calafate: Perito Moreno Glacier and El Chaltén



El Calafate, located in the province of Santa Cruz in Argentina, is known as the gateway to the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier. Visiting El Calafate will not only allow you to explore one of the largest natural wonders in Patagonia but also to venture into the national trekking capital.

El Chaltén is the starting point for spectacular trails such as Laguna de los Tres and Laguna Torre. Enjoy landscapes dominated by the imposing Mount Fitz Roy, perfect for hikers of all levels.



What to do in El Calafate?



First, you should book a Tour to Perito Moreno Glacier and see the most famous glacier in Patagonia.

If you're looking for an excursion that takes you even closer to the glacier, including walking on it, your ideal activity will be the Perito Moreno Mini Trekking, where you can walk on over 200 kilometers of pure ice.

For families traveling with small children, you can opt for the famous All Glaciers Boat Tour, discovering other glaciers like Spegazzini Glacier, Seco Glacier, Heim Sur Glacier, and Peineta Glacier.

For trekking enthusiasts, an excursion to El Chaltén will be a priority. Spend a Day of Adventure in El Chaltén and discover the iconic Fitz Roy Mountain.


These are some of the must-do excursions to explore Perito Moreno and El Chaltén. If you want to learn more, check out the Best Tours in El Calafate!



Find here 5 Destinations to Visit Patagonia in Summer and what to do in each one of them, get to know the best of the “Land of the Giants”.Feel the grandeur of Perito Moreno Glacier up close with a day trip from El Calafate! / Hasbleidy



2. San Carlos de Bariloche



Bariloche is a well-known city in the province of Rio Negro, Argentina. This destination in Argentine Patagonia enchants visitors with its mountains and crystal-clear lakes. Although it welcomes visitors all year round, each season offers unique activities. In summer, you can enjoy hiking, kayaking, swimming, exploring gastronomy, craft beer, delicious chocolate, and much more.



What to do in Bariloche?



One of the top activities in Bariloche is the Circuito Chico Tour, which combines Lake Nahuel Huapi and unique panoramic views.

Another highlight is the Seven Lakes Route from Bariloche to San Martín de los Andes, an iconic route showcasing majestic lakes, mountains, and lush forests.

For an extra treat, add a Boat Tour to Puerto Blest and sail across Lake Nahuel Huapi. Prepare to be amazed!

 

Discover more excursions and winter tours in Bariloche here: Best Tours in Bariloche!



Find here 5 Destinations to Visit Patagonia in Summer and what to do in each one of them, get to know the best of the “Land of the Giants”.Don’t miss the best views of Bariloche, Villa La Angostura, San Martín de los Andes, and more / source



3. From Puerto Madryn: Península Valdés and Punta Tombo



Puerto Madryn, located in the province of Chubut in Argentina, is the gateway to Península Valdés, considered the largest marine wildlife observation area in South America.

Additionally, Puerto Madryn offers access to Punta Tombo, a natural reserve hosting the continent’s largest annual penguin migration. Did you know that? 



What to do in Península Valdés and Punta Tombo?



If you visit Puerto Madryn, it's likely to explore the Tour to Península Valdés and discover the fascinating marine life of Argentine Patagonia, including orcas, dolphins, sea lions, elephant seals, and various bird species. It’s a must for wildlife enthusiasts!

During whale season (June to December), the best tour to take is the Whale Watching in Puerto Pirámides, an adventure offering a close encounter with these sea giants.

To top off your trip, consider the famous Penguin Walk at Punta Tombo, available from September to March, with October being the best month to spot them.

Learn more about why Punta Tombo is the best place to see penguins in Argentina.



Check out other tour options to fit your itinerary by browsing our Best Tours in Puerto Madryn here!



Find here 5 Destinations to Visit Patagonia in Summer and what to do in each one of them, get to know the best of the “Land of the Giants”.Explore the best of Patagonia's marine wildlife with day trips from Puerto Madryn / Daytours4u



4. Ushuaia, the Land at the End of the World



Ushuaia is known as the southernmost city in the world. It is located in the Province of Tierra del Fuego and is renowned worldwide for offering unique Patagonian landscapes and unforgettable places such as the Beagle Channel, Tierra del Fuego National Park, and Martillo Island. Ushuaia combines history, adventure, and nature all in one place.



What to Do in Ushuaia?



The first thing you should do in Ushuaia is visit the Tierra del Fuego National Park. With this tour, you will enjoy the best panoramic views of the region from the train. Discover breathtaking landscapes, scenic trails, and unique biodiversity!

Another unmissable activity is the famous Beagle Channel Navigation, a charming maritime excursion that takes you to Bird Island, Sea Lions Island, and the Lighthouse at the End of the World.

If you want a more complete adventure, take the Beagle Channel Navigation and Penguin Colony, an ideal excursion to spot much of Patagonia's wildlife, including penguins (between October and March).

Lastly, in summer, don't miss the iconic Penguin Walk on Martillo Island. This tour is highly recommended to book well in advance because the island is small, and spots fill up quickly. Check here for a guide on how to book this tour.



Summer options in Ushuaia are unique, but visiting Ushuaia in winter is also a great option. Discover the Best Tours in Ushuaia available for you.



Find here 5 Destinations to Visit Patagonia in Summer and what to do in each one of them, get to know the best of the “Land of the Giants”.Sail through the famous Beagle Channel and be amazed by the unique Patagonian views! / source



5. Explore Further, Visit Chilean Patagonia



Chilean Patagonia offers a unique perspective on this impressive region. With iconic places such as Torres del Paine National Park, the Marble Caves, and the immense fjords of Tierra del Fuego, it is a paradise for the most adventurous travelers!

Exploring Chilean Patagonia means discovering one of the best destinations in the world for hiking, enjoying diverse wildlife, and exploring a unique region shared by Argentina and Chile.



What to Do in Chilean Patagonia?



If you are in El Calafate, take advantage of visiting Torres del Paine National Park on a one-day excursion. The Full-Day Tour to Torres del Paine from Calafate is perfect for those who want to discover more of Patagonia. You can choose to stay in Chile or return the same day — it's up to you!

In Bariloche, if your trip extends beyond Argentina, book the Andean Crossing from Bariloche to Puerto Varas in Chile. This is a very popular excursion.

Additionally, you can venture to the End of the World and take the famous Ushuaia to Puerto Williams Crossing, which takes you through the spectacular Beagle Channel and Navarino Island in Chile.



Discover the Best Tours in Chilean Patagonia here!



Find here 5 Destinations to Visit Patagonia in Summer and what to do in each one of them, get to know the best of the “Land of the Giants”.Discover why Chilean Patagonia is one of the most remote and stunning destinations on the planet! / source



Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Patagonia



What is the best time to travel to Patagonia?

You can visit all year round, but it is recommended during spring, summer, and autumn. Some areas have restrictions in winter, so confirm your destination's activities before traveling.

 

How to get from Argentina to Patagonia?

The easiest way to get to Patagonia is by flying from Buenos Aires, either from Ezeiza or Aeroparque Airport. You can fly to airports in El Calafate, Ushuaia, Bariloche, and Puerto Madryn. To visit Chilean Patagonia, you can travel by land from El Calafate or take a boat from Ushuaia and Bariloche to Chile.

 

What do you need to travel to Patagonia?

Bring valid documentation (visa, passport, or ID depending on your country). Check all requirements for both Argentine and Chilean Patagonia. Don't forget a waterproof and windproof jacket, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and thermal leggings. Bonus tip: Get travel insurance that covers outdoor activities.

 

When is the best time to visit the Perito Moreno Glacier?

Spring, summer, and autumn are ideal for travel, with many excursions available and milder weather. Some areas have restrictions in winter, so confirm activities before your trip.

 

Do you need a car in Patagonia?

It is not necessary. Most excursions include transfers, saving you time and money. Destinations like Bariloche have public transport, while in El Calafate, it is better to book through an agency. If you plan to travel on your own, consider the season and specific travel requirements.

 

How many days are enough to visit Bariloche?

For destinations like Bariloche, El Calafate, and Ushuaia, plan at least 5 days. Excursions usually last the whole day, so the more days you stay, the more you can explore. For Puerto Madryn, 3 days is perfect.

 

Where do you fly to if you want to visit Patagonia?

In Argentina, you can fly to Patagonia from Buenos Aires. In Chile, you can fly from Santiago de Chile Airport.

 

Is it safe to travel to Patagonia?

Yes, it is a very safe destination for tourists. However, it is always better to be accompanied by specialized guides who know the area.

 

Is it better to fly to Chile or Argentina to visit Patagonia?

Your choice will depend on the activities you want to do. For adventure and advanced trekking, Chilean Patagonia and Torres del Paine are ideal. To see the Perito Moreno Glacier, you must visit Argentine Patagonia. For winter skiing, both Chile and Argentina offer great options.

 

What currency should I bring to Patagonia?

In Argentina, bring Argentine pesos (ARS). In Chile, bring Chilean pesos (CLP). It is recommended to carry cash since cards are not always accepted in remote areas.

 

…

 

Patagonia is a destination that combines adventure, awe, and untamed nature. From the glaciers of El Calafate to the lakes and mountains of Bariloche, this summer is the perfect time to discover the remote lands at the end of the world. Get ready and live an unforgettable experience with Daytours4u!



 

By: Hasbleidy Chacón, enthusiastic traveler and content coordinator for Daytours4u.com