Great Patagonia Itineraries: How Many Days to Spend?

If you are still wondering how many days you should spend in Patagonia then, we recommend spending 10 days to two weeks in Patagonia, as this time frame allows you to explore the major highlights and discover many places to visit in Patagonia, while also accommodating travel between destinations. A two-week Patagonia itinerary will ensure you experience everything this region has to offer.

But if you can’t manage a full two weeks, don’t worry. Patagonia’s diverse landscapes are such that even a five- to seven-day itinerary is sufficient to see many of the key sights. In just a few days, you can include two or three destinations into your travel plans, since many of the top spots are accessible within a few hours by road or a short flight.

A seven-day in Patagonia itinerary offers an excellent introduction to the wild beauty of this extraordinary region. Begin your adventure in the vibrant town of El Calafate, where you can indulge in local cuisine and visit the renowned Glaciarium museum. Spend a day exploring the magnificent Perito Moreno Glacier, where you can hike along its icy expanse or take a boat tour to witness the dramatic glacier calving process up close.

After soaking up the glacial grandeur, head to El Chalten for a taste of Patagonia’s trekking paradise. Spend a couple of days hiking to iconic viewpoints such as Laguna de los Tres for breathtaking views of Mount Fitz Roy and Laguna Torre to marvel at the striking Cerro Terro. In the evenings, enjoy the cozy, laid-back vibe of El Chalten’s mountain village atmosphere.

Next, take a trip to the Chilean side of Patagonia, entering the world-famous Torres del Paine National Park. Spend two days immersed in its otherworldly landscapes, hiking the trails to see the awe-inspiring Torred del Paine peaks, the emerald-green Lake Pehoe, and the striking Grey Glacier. Opt for a shorter W trek section or enjoy scenic day hikes that captures the park’s diverse beauty.

Conclude your journey in the picturesque town of Puerto Natales. Explore its charming waterfront, dine in local seafood, and perhaps take a boat trip through the fjords to see Patagonia wildlife. This seven-day itinerary provides a balanced blend of adventure and relaxation, ensuring you experience the quintessential wonders of Patagonia.

If you allocate 10 days to your Patagonia trip, you can truly immerse yourself in the region’s splendor. With this time, you can add destinations like Ushuaia and the Lake District to your itinerary. The world’s southernmost city, the Ushuaia tour offers a getaway to the stunning Tierra del Fuego National Park. Enjoy a boat trip through the Beagle Channel to observe marine wildlife and explore the landscapes of the southern Andes.

Next, head to the Lake District, particularly Bariloche, where you can explore the idyllic surroundings of Nahuel Huapi National Park. Take a scenic drive along the Seven Lakes Route, hike the lush trails with panoramic lake views, or savor local delicacies in the charming town of San Martin de los Andes.

A 10-day trip to Patagonia is highly recommended to experience the best of Patagonia. The duration allows for a more comprehensive exploration of the region’s diverse attractions.

Having spent the first 10 days of your Patagonian adventure exploring iconic landmarks and hiking trails, use the remaining four days of your two-week trip to uncover the region’s hidden gems. If you're wondering how many days in Patagonia are enough to experience its lesser-known wonders, these four additional days offer a perfect extension.

Begin with Puerto Varas in Chile’s Lake District, known for its scenic lakeside views and traditional German architecture. From here, take a day trip to Chiloe Island to experience its unique wooden churches and vibrant local culture. Continue to the remote village of Puerto Rio Tranquilo to marvel at the Marble Caves on General Carrera Lake, and visit the tranquil Pumalin Douglas Tompkins National Park for its lush forests and towering volcanoes. In Argentina, explore the serene town of Esquel and the ancient forests of Los Alerces National Park. Conclude your trip with a visit to the Valdes Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its wildlife, including whales, penguins, and sea lions.

Deciding how long to stay in Patagonia hinges on your interests and pace. For those eager to sample Patagonia’s highlights, a week-long or 10-day itinerary will cover key attractions like Torres del Paine, the Perito Moreno Glacier, and El Chaltén’s hiking trails. To truly delve into Patagonia’s breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and secluded charms, planning for a two- to three-week stay is ideal. This duration allows for relaxed exploration and the flexibility to uncover less-visited gems, ensuring an immersive experience.

For more ideas on what to do on your trip to Patagonia, check out our guide on the things to do in Patagonia. Our articles on the best time to visit in Patagonia and places to visit in Patagonia will also come in handy for your Patagonia adventure.