14 Days Argentina & Chile Patagonia Itinerary
This 14-day journey explores the highlights of Argentina and Chile, starting with the cosmopolitan Buenos Aires, then venturing into the Patagonian wilderness to witness glaciers, hike iconic trails around El Chalten and Torres del Paine, and finishing in the vibrant city of Santiago.
Duration
14 days
Budget
$2800
Best Time
October to April (Patagonian summer)
Activities
92
Daily Avg
$200/day
Cities
Buenos Aires (3d), El Calafate (2d), El Chalten (2d), Puerto Natales (2d), Torres del Paine National Park (1d), Puerto Natales (1d), Santiago (1d), Puerto Natales (2d)
Pace
Fast
This itinerary combines the vibrant culture of Buenos Aires with the awe-inspiring landscapes of Patagonia, spanning both Argentina and Chile. It offers a diverse experience, from tango shows to glacial hikes and stunning mountain vistas.
Your itinerary covers 8 of 12 must-have experiences
Tango Immersion
Day 2: Tango Lesson
Glacier Exploration
Day 4: Ice Trekking (Optional)
Hiking in El Chalten
Day 6: Transfer to El Chalten
Torres del Paine National Park
Day 4: Bus to Perito Moreno Glacier
Wine Tasting
e.g., Maipo Valley wine tour, Casablanca Valley visit
Argentinian Steak
Day 1: Dinner at a Parilla
Street Art Tour
Day 1: San Telmo Walking Tour
Chilean Seafood
e.g., Seafood market, Ceviche tasting
San Telmo Market
Day 1: San Telmo Market
Lago Argentino Boat Trip
e.g., Icebergs Channel, Estancia Cristina
Explore Plaza de Armas
Day 1: Explore Recoleta
Cerro San Cristobal
Day 14: Cerro Santa Lucia
Patagonia offers a unique culinary experience shaped by its vast landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Expect hearty dishes featuring lamb, seafood, and locally sourced ingredients, reflecting the region's rugged beauty and traditional farming practices. Don't miss the chance to sample Patagonian wines and craft beers.
Must-Try Dishes
A Patagonian staple, slow-cooked lamb roasted over an open fire. The meat is incredibly tender and flavorful, with a crispy skin. The traditional preparation enhances the natural taste of the lamb.
📍 Estancias (ranches), traditional restaurants, and roadside parrillas throughout Patagonia
A prized delicacy harvested from the cold waters of Patagonia. The meat is sweet, succulent, and served in various ways, from salads to gratins. Try it fresh or cooked in a Chupe (creamy seafood stew).
📍 Seafood restaurants in Ushuaia, Punta Arenas, and Puerto Varas
Savory pastries filled with meat (often lamb or guanaco), cheese, or seafood. Patagonian empanadas are known for their unique fillings and flavorful spices, often baked instead of fried.
📍 Bakeries, cafes, and street food vendors throughout Patagonia
A traditional Chilean dish cooked in a pit with hot stones, typically containing seafood, meat, potatoes, and milcao (potato bread). It's a communal eating experience, perfect for sharing.
📍 Restaurants in Chiloé Island and Puerto Varas, often offered as a special event.
Food Neighborhoods
Known for Chilean seafood and German-influenced cuisine.
Known for Centolla (King Crab) and seafood dishes.
Known for chocolate, craft beer, and Patagonian trout.
Vegetarian options can be limited outside of major cities, but many restaurants offer pasta dishes and salads. Vegan options are scarce; it's best to inquire in advance. Gluten-free options are becoming more common, but it's essential to confirm ingredients. For halal options, you may need to seek out specific restaurants in larger cities.
Lunch is typically eaten later in the afternoon (around 1-3 PM), and dinner is often served late (around 8-10 PM). Tipping is customary in restaurants (around 10%). It's polite to say 'provecho' (enjoy your meal) to other diners when entering or leaving a restaurant.
Fiesta Nacional del Trekking
FebruaryA trekking festival in El Chalten with events and activities.
Vendimia (Wine Harvest Festival)
MarchCelebrated in Mendoza, Argentina (outside Patagonia, but relevant if connecting flights).
🛣️Interesting Detours & Side Trips
- 🚶Walkable from most accommodations in San Telmo.$10
10:00 AM - San Telmo Market
Explore the San Telmo Market, a bustling antique and flea market with food stalls and street performers.
Book on Klook - 🚶Walking distance from the market.$25
01:00 PM - Lunch at a Parrilla
Enjoy a traditional Argentine lunch at a parrilla (grill) in San Telmo. Try the asado (grilled meat).
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- 🚶Starts and ends in San Telmo.$15
02:30 PM - San Telmo Walking Tour
Take a guided walking tour of San Telmo to learn about its history and architecture.
- 🚶Take a taxi or bus from San Telmo (approx. 30 minutes).$10
04:30 PM - Recoleta Cemetery
Visit the Recoleta Cemetery, an elaborate city of the dead with ornate mausoleums.
Book on Klook - 🚶Walking distance from the cemetery.FREE
06:30 PM - Explore Recoleta
Explore the Recoleta neighborhood, known for its Parisian-style architecture and upscale shops.
- 🚶Walking distance from the Recoleta area.$30
08:00 PM - Dinner in Recoleta
Have dinner at a restaurant in Recoleta. Consider trying Argentine pasta or pizza.
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San Telmo
Historic neighborhood with tango, antiques, and a vibrant atmosphere.
📅 Best Time to Visit
October to April (Patagonian summer)
Patagonia's weather is notoriously unpredictable. Expect strong winds, sunshine, rain, and even snow, all in the same day. Layering is essential.
October to April is the Patagonian summer, offering the best weather for hiking and outdoor activities. Days are longer and temperatures are milder.
Check for national holidays in Argentina and Chile, as they can affect transportation and opening hours.
Getting Around
Buenos Aires has Subte metro; long-distance buses for intercity
SUBE card
SUBE card is essential for Buenos Aires transit. Flecha Bus for long-distance travel.
Travel
300-500 USDAccommodation
50-100 USD/nightFood
30-50 USD/dayActivities
500-700 USDUtilize overnight buses for longer distances to save on accommodation costs and travel time.
Consider staying in hostels or guesthouses in Patagonia to reduce accommodation expenses.
Eat at local restaurants and markets to experience authentic cuisine at lower prices.
- Book accommodations and transport in advance, especially during peak season.
- Pack for all types of weather, as Patagonia can be unpredictable.
- Learn some basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.
- Bring comfortable hiking shoes and layers of clothing.
- Purchase travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and trip cancellations.
- 1Waterproof jacket
- 2Hiking boots
- 3Layers of clothing (fleece, thermal)
- 4Sunscreen and hat
- 5Reusable water bottle
International and Domestic Flights
Book well in advance, especially for flights into Patagonian hubs like El Calafate (Argentina), Ushuaia (Argentina), or Punta Arenas (Chile), as they can be costly and sell out.
Accommodation
Secure lodging in popular towns (e.g., El Calafate, El Chalten, Puerto Natales, Ushuaia) months ahead, particularly for peak season (Dec-Feb) when demand is high.
Torres del Paine National Park Entrance & Refugios/Campsites
Mandatory to book park entrance and all overnight stays (refugios/campsites) months in advance (6+ months for W/O treks) to guarantee access and lodging.
Perito Moreno Glacier Excursions (Mini-trekking/Boat Tours)
Popular tours to walk on the glacier or take boat trips sell out quickly; book several weeks to months in advance.
Long-Distance & Cross-Border Bus Tickets
Essential for inter-town and inter-country travel (e.g., El Calafate to El Chalten, Puerto Natales to El Calafate); book a few days to weeks in advance, especially in high season.
Travel Insurance
Highly recommended for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage; purchase as soon as you book flights or major tours.
Visa/Reciprocity Fees
Check entry requirements for both Argentina and Chile based on your nationality well before your travel dates, as some may require online applications or fees.
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details — such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options — closer to your travel date.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
📍 Airalo website or app
📍 Claro stores at airports or in major cities
📍 Entel stores at airports or in major cities
📍 Online rental before arrival
WiFi is readily available in most hotels, hostels, and cafes in cities and towns. However, connectivity can be spotty or non-existent in remote areas and national parks. Expect slower speeds than you might be used to.
Useful Apps
Purchase a local SIM card or eSIM upon arrival for reliable data access. Download offline maps and translation packs before your trip. Consider a pocket WiFi device if you need consistent internet access for multiple devices. Be aware that cell service can be unreliable in mountainous regions and national parks. Check roaming charges with your home provider, but local options are generally more cost-effective.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Two round pins (Europlug)
Two angled flat pins + ground
220V
50Hz
Tipping Etiquette
10%
Round up to nearest 100 ARS
$1–2 USD per bag
Tipping 10% is customary at restaurants.
Safety & Travel Advisories
Patagonia is generally safe for tourists. Be aware of petty theft in major cities. Exercise caution when hiking due to unpredictable weather.
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
101
107
100
911 in Buenos Aires
Payments
Cash is important due to "blue dollar" parallel exchange rate
Accepted at major establishments
Limited
Exchange USD at "cuevas" (blue dollar) for much better rates than official. Carry cash.
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Trip Summary
How was this itinerary?
The best time to visit Patagonia is during the Patagonian summer (October to April). The weather is milder, days are longer, and most hiking trails are open. However, be prepared for unpredictable weather at any time of year.
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