Patagonia in 12 Days: 3 Recommended 12-day Itineraries to Patagonia

Patagonia 12-day Itinerary Options
Stuck on ideas? Below, we’ve put together a selection of 12-day Patagonia itinerary ideas to help you make the most of your trip to Patagonia.
Itinerary #1: Scenic Treasures of Southern Patagonia


Overview | Activity | Overnight | |
Day 1 | Start your trip in El Calafate | Arrival | El Calafate |
Day 2 | Explore Perito Moreno Glacier | Glacier exploration | El Calafate |
Day 3 | A trip to El Chalten | Transfer | El Chalten |
Day 4 | Hike to Laguna Torre | Hiking | El Chalten |
Day 5 | Hike Fitz Roy and take in the beauty of the surrounding | Hiking | El Chalten |
Day 6 | Return to El Calafate and take a sightseeing tour | Sightseeing | El Calafate |
Day 7 | A trip to Ushuaia | Transfer | Ushuaia |
Day 8 | Explore Tierra del Fuego National Park | National Park exploration | Ushuaia |
Day 9 | Take a Beagle Channel cruise | Cruise tour | Ushuaia |
Day 10 | Return to El Calafate | Transfer | El Calafate |
Day 11 | Explore the museums such as Glaciarium Museum | Museum visits | El Calafate |
Day 12 | Departure from El Calafate | Departure |
This 12 days in Patagonia itinerary is a treasure trove for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Begin in El Calafate, the gateway to glaciers, where you'll marvel at the towering ice formations of Perito Moreno Glacier. Then, journey to El Chaltén, a hiker’s paradise, for scenic treks to Laguna Torre and the iconic Fitz Roy, where rugged peaks and crystal-clear lakes create an unforgettable backdrop. Returning to El Calafate, soak in its charm before flying south to Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city. Explore the dramatic landscapes of Tierra del Fuego National Park, followed by a cruise through the Beagle Channel, where penguins and sea lions thrive. Returning to El Calafate, delve into glacial history at the Glaciarium Museum before concluding your trip. With glacier tours, epic hikes, and breathtaking fjords, this itinerary is the ultimate Patagonian adventure for nature lovers and explorers alike.
Itinerary #2: The Essence of Northern Patagonia and Lakes

Overview | Activity | Overnight | |
Day 1 | Start your trip in Bariloche | Arrival | Bariloche |
Day 2 | Take a scenic drive around the iconic Circuito Chico for breathtaking lake views | Scenic drive | Bariloche |
Day 3 | Explore the vast beauty of Nahuel Huapi National Park, perfect for hiking and outdoor activities | National park exploration | Bariloche |
Day 4 | Travel to San Martín de los Andes | Scenic drive | San Martín de los Andes |
Day 5 | Hike and admire the beauty of Lanín National Park | Hiking | San Martín de los Andes |
Day 6 | Spend a relaxing day by Lacar Lake, with the option for kayaking, swimming, or simply soaking in the serene beauty | Lake activities & relaxation | San Martín de los Andes |
Day 7 | Travel to Villa La Angostura, a picturesque village on the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi | Scenic drive & town exploration | Villa La Angostura |
Day 8 | Hike through the magical Arrayanes Forest, famous for its unique white-barked trees. | Hiking | Villa La Angostura |
Day 9 | Enjoy outdoor activities in Cerro Bayo | Outdoor exploration | Villa La Angostura |
Day 10 | Return to Bariloche | Transfer | Bariloche |
Day 11 | Visit Colonia Suiza and experience its local culture | Cultural exploration | Bariloche |
Day 12 | Departure from Bariloche | Departure |
If you’re craving a journey through the Patagonia Lake District, this itinerary is your perfect escape. Begin in Bariloche, where alpine charm meets breathtaking scenery. Drive the legendary Circuito Chico, soaking in panoramic views of glacial lakes and mountain peaks. Wander through the untouched beauty of Nahuel Huapi National Park before heading to the serene town of San Martín de los Andes. Hike through Lanín National Park, home to the majestic Lanín Volcano, and unwind along the tranquil shores of Lacar Lake. Continue your adventure in Villa La Angostura, a hidden gem of the region, where the magical Arrayanes Forest awaits. Get your adrenaline fix with outdoor activities in Cerro Bayo before returning to Bariloche for a taste of local culture in Colonia Suiza. Whether you're hiking, sightseeing, or simply taking in the views, this journey offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation in Patagonia’s most picturesque landscapes.
Itinerary #3: Wilderness and Adventure in Central Patagonia


Overview | Activity | Overnight | |
Day 1 | Start your trip in Puerto Natales and explore the town | Arrival and exploration | Puerto Natales |
Day 2 | Head into Torres del Paine National Park and explore the national park | National park exploration | Torres del Paine |
Day 3 | Hike and admire the beauty of Torres del Paine National Park | Hiking | Torres del Paine |
Day 4 | Take a boat ride through Grey Lake | Boat ride | Torres del Paine |
Day 5 | Visit French Valley and take a short hike | Hiking | Torres del Paine |
Day 6 | Travel back to Puerto Natales | Transfer | Puerto Natales |
Day 7 | Journey to Punta Arenas and take a short city sightseeing tour | City sightseeing | Puerto Arenas |
Day 8 | Visit Magdalena Island and spot Magellanic penguins | Wildlife spotting | Puerto Arenas |
Day 9 | Explore Tierra del Fuego and spot wildlife | Wildlife exploration | Puerto Arenas |
Day 10 | Return to Puerto Natales | Transfer | Puerto Natales |
Day 11 | Explore the Milodon Cave | Cave exploration | Puerto Natales |
Day 12 | Departure from Puerto Natales | Departure |
This 12-day Patagonia adventure begins in Puerto Natales, where you’ll explore charming streets before venturing into the awe-inspiring Torres del Paine National Park. Hike among towering peaks, pristine lakes, and glaciers. As you cruise across Grey Lake, you’ll experience a different perspective of the park’s stunning beauty. Be captivated by the hidden wonders of French Valley on a short hike before returning to Puerto Natales. Next, head to Punta Arenas, where history and wildlife collide. Have you ever dreamed of seeing penguins up close? Magdalena Island gives you the chance to spot Magellanic penguins in their natural habitat. Venture further into Tierra del Fuego and spot wildlife in the untouched wilderness. Before you leave, uncover the ancient secrets hidden in the Milodon Cave. This Patagonian journey promises endless adventure, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Need help in planning a 12-day itinerary to Patagonia?
If these itineraries have inspired you, but you're seeking more Patagonia 12 days itinerary ideas tailored just for you then consult travel experts for a customized trip to Argentina and a customized trip to Chile. For more information, check out our guides on how many days to spend in Patagonia and the best time to visit Patagonia.
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