How to Plan a Trip to Patagonia

Planning Patagonia requires choosing between the Chilean (Torres del Paine) or Argentine (El Chaltén/El Calafate) sides, as the distance between them is vast. Focus on one region per 7-day trip and book your accommodations and park permits 6 months in advance.

1. Choose your primary hub. Pick between El Calafate (Argentina) for glaciers, El Chaltén (Argentina) for hiking, or Puerto Natales (Chile) for Torres del Paine. Do not try to see all three in under 10 days.
2. Secure park permits and bus tickets. If doing the W-trek in Chile, book campsites or refugios 6-8 months out. Use bus-bud or local sites like Bus-Sur to book cross-border bus tickets at least 3 weeks before arrival.
3. Layer your clothing strategy. Expect all four seasons in one day. Pack a base layer, a fleece or down mid-layer, and a high-quality windproof and waterproof outer shell.
4. Handle the logistics of border crossings. If crossing the border by bus, ensure your passport is valid for 6 months and keep your PDI (Chilean entry paper) safe; you will need it to leave the country.

Can I use credit cards everywhere?

In towns like El Calafate and Puerto Natales, yes. However, on hiking trails and remote refugios, always carry cash (USD or local currency) as card machines often lose connection.

Is it possible to visit in winter?

Most trails and accommodations in El Chaltén close from May to September. Only visit in winter if you are an expert mountaineer.