subject: Patagonia: Top Latin America Destination [print this page] An absolute treasure trove for different activities, South America travel has something for everyone - from the history buff to the adventurer. Mountain bikers and hikers will always have Patagonia at the top of their list, and for good reason. If you add this to the vast landscapes and incredible wildlife on offer, any visitor to the continent is always going to have a great time here.
Patagonia
Patagonia is an unparalleled wilderness area that spans both Chile and Argentina and each country has some regions that are similar. One decision you will have to make when travelling here is whether you prefer to stay in just one country or the other. Some tours will include only locations within Chile, others Argentina and still others will have you trekking between the two.
The Lakes District, for example, is one that spans both countries. Many people choose to experience this on the Chilean side in the Torres del Paine National Park. Among the animals that make their homes here include a variety of rodents, wild guanacos, pumas, foxes, deer and the Andean Condor. All the rivers, forests, lakes and mountains that you can find there make it breathtaking, while you also get a great variation of fauna.
Although many people can't wait to get started on a multi-day trek through this region, others would prefer something a bit more relaxed and less strenuous. It is possible to stay at a lodge in the park and simply indulge in day hikes to see some of the various sights that the area has to offer. For those wanting more action, there are mountain biking, horseback riding and white water rafting possibilities.
Los Glacieres National Park in Argentina is a great location for both trekking as well as for visiting glaciers. El Chalten in the northern part of the park is frequently referred to as the trekking capital of the country. The southern part is typically accessed from El Calafate. Here you can find ice fields that you would associate with being in somewhere like Antarctica and Greenland; the Perito Moreno Glacier is one that many people enjoy to visit.
Also in the south of Argentina, you will find the Peninsula Valdez, a wildlife sanctuary that offers unique opportunities of viewing a variety of mammals and birds. Kayaking is one way of seeing things that you would not be able to any other way. Take in some of the region's glaciers by getting into a boat for a day of travel.
Another area worth visiting in southern Patagonia is the Tierra del Fuego. This archipelago co-owned by Chile and Argentina is home to several types of animals such as King Penguins, foxes, owls, condors, kingfishers, hummingbirds and parakeets. It is possible to do some tours by jeep if you are tired of walking around.
December through February, the summer months in this part of the world, is a good time to go, especially if you are planning on doing some trekking, as it will be warmer and trails will be accessible that might be blocked by snow otherwise. March is also a good option as it is a bit less crowded then. Whether you're searching for an Argentina vacation package or other, there is so much to enjoy in this part of the world.
