Argentina
Patagonia From Whales to Glaciers
- Argentina
- Buenos Aires
- Buenos Aires
- 14 days
- Nature
14-Day Patagonia Itinerary in Argentina: Puerto Madryn, Ushuaia & El Calafate
Patagonia is often associated with glaciers and mountain peaks, but Argentina’s southern region offers far more than dramatic landscapes alone.
This 14-day Patagonia journey in Argentina combines wildlife-rich coastlines, remote southern wilderness, and some of South America’s most iconic natural wonders. From the elegant streets of Buenos Aires to the marine reserves of Puerto Madryn, the windswept shores of Tierra del Fuego, and the immense ice fields of Los Glaciares National Park, this itinerary reveals the extraordinary diversity of Argentine Patagonia.
Designed for first-time visitors, it balances exploration, comfort, and meaningful encounters with nature.
Highlights
Why This Journey Lets You Experience Patagonia's Diversity
- Discover Buenos Aires, Argentina's vibrant capital of culture and gastronomy
- Explore the wildlife-rich coast of Puerto Madryn, home to whales, and penguins
- Visit Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world
- Witness the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park
- Discover the hiking trails and mountain landscapes of El Chaltén
- Explore the dramatic landscapes of Argentine Patagonia, from Atlantic coastlines to glacial valleys
Many Patagonia itineraries focus exclusively on mountains or trekking.
This journey takes a broader perspective, combining marine wildlife, remote southern landscapes, glaciers, and Argentine culture into one seamless itinerary.
From whale-watching in Puerto Madryn and sailing the Beagle Channel to standing before the immense Perito Moreno Glacier, travelers experience the remarkable variety that makes Argentine Patagonia one of the world’s most rewarding destinations.
Designed at a comfortable pace, it offers the perfect introduction to Patagonia for travelers seeking both iconic highlights and meaningful experiences.
The itinerery
Arrive in Argentina’s elegant capital.
Depending on your arrival time, explore the historic neighborhoods of Recoleta, Palermo or San Telmo, and enjoy your first taste of Argentine cuisine.
Overnight in Buenos Aires.
Spend the day exploring the city’s most iconic neighborhoods.
Visit Plaza de Mayo, La Boca, Palermo, and Recoleta, while experiencing the culture, gastronomy, and atmosphere that make Buenos Aires one of South America’s most fascinating capitals.
Overnight in Buenos Aires.
Fly south to Puerto Madryn, gateway to the wildlife reserves of Patagonia’s Atlantic coast.
The landscape changes dramatically as the vast Patagonian steppe meets the ocean.
Overnight in Puerto Madryn.
Explore the UNESCO-listed Peninsula Valdés, one of the world’s most important wildlife sanctuaries.
Depending on the season, opportunities include observing southern right whales, elephant seals, sea lions, guanacos, and a remarkable variety of birdlife.
Overnight in Puerto Madryn
Continue exploring the region’s extraordinary ecosystems.
Visit one of Patagonia’s penguin colonies or discover lesser-known coastal reserves that showcase the richness of the Atlantic coastline.
Overnight in Puerto Madryn.
Travel to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world.
Surrounded by mountains, forests, and the waters of the Beagle Channel, Ushuaia marks the beginning of Tierra del Fuego.
Overnight in Ushuaia.
Discover the landscapes of Tierra del Fuego National Park.
Hike through lenga forests, admire mountain scenery, and explore the southern edge of the American continent.
Overnight in Ushuaia.
Cruise through the legendary Beagle Channel.
Observe sea lions, cormorants, and seabirds while enjoying spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and remote islands.
Overnight in Ushuaia.
Fly north to El Calafate, gateway to Los Glaciares National Park.
Located on the shores of Lake Argentino, the town serves as the perfect base for exploring Patagonia’s famous glaciers.
Overnight in El Calafate.
Spend the day navigating among icebergs and glaciers on Lake Argentino.
Admire the remote beauty of Upsala Glacier, Spegazzini Glacier, and the Southern Patagonian Ice Field.
Overnight in El Calafate.
Travel north through the Patagonian steppe to El Chaltén, Argentina’s trekking capital.
As Mount Fitz Roy begins to appear on the horizon, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic.
Overnight in El Chaltén.
Spend the day exploring one of Patagonia’s most celebrated hiking routes.
The trail to Laguna de los Tres rewards hikers with breathtaking views of Fitz Roy’s granite spires reflected in glacial waters.
Overnight in El Chaltén.
Fly back to Buenos Aires.
Enjoy a final evening in the Argentine capital, perhaps celebrating your journey with a traditional dinner and tango performance.
Overnight in Buenos Aires.
Private transfer to the airport and departure.
Hotels
Arakur Resort
Perched in the Cerro Alarkén Nature Reserve near Ushuaia, Arakur offers breathtaking views over the Beagle Channel and Patagonian valleys. Surrounded by pristine forests and dramatic landscapes, the resort immerses guests in the serene beauty of Tierra del Fuego, blending the tranquility of nature with a sense of refined comfort and unforgettable wilderness experiences.
Kau Yatún
Nestled on the historic Estancia 25 de Mayo just 600 m from downtown El Calafate, Kau Yatún offers an authentic Patagonian ranch experience. With country-style rooms, a cozy fireplace bar, and a restaurant serving regional cuisine, guests can immerse themselves in traditional shepherd life, enjoying nature, sheep-shearing demonstrations, and genuine rural hospitality.
Los Cerros del Chalten
At Los Cerros del Chaltén, the mountains become your silent companions. Nestled among soaring peaks and Patagonian winds, every window frames a living landscape. Mornings start with crisp mountain air and distant condor calls; evenings end in quiet comfort under starlit skies. Here, you don’t just stay — you belong to the Andes.
What to expect?
Details
What to bring
- Comfortable clothing and sturdy hiking shoes, appropriate for the season.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
Best time to visit Patagonia
The experience changes with the seasons; I recommend visiting in summer or during the shoulder seasons.
- Summer (December – February): Warmest temperatures, long daylight hours, ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.
- Spring (October – November) & Autumn (March – April): Fewer tourists, beautiful seasonal colors, mild weather.
- Winter (June – September): Cold and snowy, limited access to some trails, but stunning landscapes for photography.
How to book
Please use the inquiry form on this page or email hello@travellocalclub.com to get started. I will be in touch to start the process of planning your custom trip!
Price
This is a fully customizable private journey. Based on the itinerary above for two guests sharing a double room, pricing starts at approximately USD 300 per person per day, offering personalized service, private transfers, and expert local guides throughout your experience.
Do you want your itinerary?
Have any questions?
Don’t hesitate to reach out.
I will be happy to guide you!
- hello@travellocalclub.com