Pure Patagonia: Chile & Argentina

Fly overnight to Buenos Aires, Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure before gathering for an Argentinian-style welcome dinner.

Discover the highlights of Buenos Aires on a guided city tour, taking in historic Plaza de Mayo, the distinctive Casa Rosada and Metropolitan Cathedral, the colourful streets of La Boca and elegant Recoleta. Visit the famous Recoleta Cemetery, final resting place of Eva ‘Evita’ Perón, before getting hands-on with a traditional empanada-making workshop and tasting your creations with a glass of wine. This evening, experience the passion of Argentine tango with a traditional performance accompanied by music, dance and authentic cuisine.

Fly to San Carlos de Bariloche, beautifully situated on the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi in Argentina’s spectacular Lake District. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to explore Bariloche’s charming Alpine-style town centre, picturesque lakeshore and renowned chocolate shops and cafés.

Explore the spectacular landscapes surrounding Bariloche on the scenic Circuito Chico route through Nahuel Huapi National Park. Take a chairlift to the summit of Cerro Campanario for panoramic views across the lakes and mountains, before continuing through the picturesque Llao Llao area, passing San Eduardo Chapel, Puerto Pañuelo, Lopez Bay and the tranquil waters of Lake Moreno and Laguna El Trébol.

Embark on the spectacular Andean Crossing from Argentina to Chile, combining boat journeys and overland transfers through the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia. Cross the crystal-clear waters of Nahuel Huapi and Todos los Santos Lakes, travelling through lush rainforests and rugged mountain scenery with views of the iconic Osorno Volcano, before arriving in Puerto Varas.

Discover the cultural heritage and spectacular scenery of Chile’s Lake District on the Route of the Settlers. Visit the lakeside towns of Llanquihue, Frutillar and Puerto Octay, exploring their charming German-influenced architecture and enjoying beautiful views across Lake Llanquihue towards the surrounding volcanoes.

Transfer to Puerto Montt for your flight to southern Patagonia. On arrival, transfer to Puerto Natales, a picturesque gateway to Torres del Paine, and surrounded by mountains, fjords, glaciers and abundant wildlife.

Travel from Puerto Natales to your hotel in the southern sector of Torres del Paine National Park, your base for exploring this spectacular wilderness area. Spend the day exploring the eastern side of the park on the Miradores del Paine excursion, visiting impressive viewpoints including Salto Grande and taking in panoramic views of Lago Nordenskjöld, Lago Sarmiento and the iconic Torres del Paine massif. Keep watch for native wildlife such as guanacos, foxes and a variety of birdlife as you travel through the park, with short walks offering opportunities to appreciate the spectacular landscapes. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon.

Continue exploring Torres del Paine National Park, visiting spectacular viewpoints including Mirador Los Cuernos, with sweeping views of the distinctive Cuernos del Paine peaks, Lago Nordenskjöld and the surrounding mountains. Continue to the Grey sector, where you will board a catamaran for a memorable cruise across Lago Grey towards the towering Grey Glacier, sailing among floating icebergs and taking in the dramatic landscapes of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field.

Depart Torres del Paine National Park and journey across the vast Patagonian steppe towards the Argentine border, enjoying spectacular views of open plains, distant mountains and the dramatic landscapes of southern Patagonia. Cross into Argentina before continuing to El Calafate, a lively town on the shores of Lago Argentino and gateway to Los Glaciares National Park. This evening, venture into the surrounding landscapes to learn about the region's native flora and discover ancient rock paintings dating back more than 2,000 years. End the day with a traditional dinner inspired by regional flavours, served inside a specially prepared cave overlooking Lake Argentino.

Spend the day exploring the spectacular Perito Moreno Glacier in UNESCO World Heritage-listed Los Glaciares National Park. Follow the scenic walkways and viewpoints overlooking the glacier and Lake Argentino, with the chance to witness huge pieces of ice calving into the turquoise waters below. Later, enjoy a boat trip on the Safari Náutico, sailing close to the glacier's towering ice walls for a different perspective of this extraordinary natural wonder.

Experience rural Patagonia with a visit to a traditional working estancia (ranch), travelling through spectacular steppe and mountain landscapes. Meet the gauchos, discover the history of ranch life and, depending on local conditions, enjoy demonstrations or an optional horseback ride before sitting down to a traditional Patagonian asado (BBQ).

Fly back to Buenos Aires and enjoy some time at leisure to relax or explore the vibrant capital. This evening, head to Palermo for a farewell dinner at a renowned wine bar and restaurant, where you’ll enjoy a guided tasting of Argentina’s celebrated wines paired with local gourmet bites.

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your flight, arriving home 2 days later.