Patagonia Trail
Patagonia Trail
$3589
Patagonia Trail
9 Days Starting in Puerto Natales, Chile and ending in El Calafate, Argentina
Visiting: Puerto Natales, Torres Del Paine National Park, El Calafate, El Chaltén
Tour operator:
Tour code:
PATA19
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia with the "Patagonia Trail" tour. This adventure takes you through the stunning terrains of Chile and Argentina, starting in Puerto Natales, the gateway to the iconic Torres del Paine National Park. Sail on a catamaran to witness the majestic Balmacede and Serrano glaciers, and explore the vibrant wildlife, including penguins and sea lions. Discover the historic charm of Puerto Natales and the natural wonders of Torres del Paine. Cross into Argentina to marvel at the Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park, and trek the magical trails of El Chaltén, the 'capital of trekking'. Experience the awe-inspiring views of Mount Fitz Roy and the sparkling Laguna De los Tres. With guided tours, comfortable accommodations, and included meals, this tour promises an immersive experience in one of the world's most pristine natural environments.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Puerto Natales
Location: Puerto Natales
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Vendaval (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Puerto Natales is known as the gateway to Patagonia and the iconic Torres Del Paine National Park. Formerly a modest fishing port, this will be our home for the next few days, as we admire the towering granite rocks, bright blue glacial waters and frosted snowy peaks.
Day 2: Puerto Natales
Location: Puerto Natales
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Vendaval (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today we'll kickstart our Puerto Natales adventures. After breakfast we'll board a catamaran and head to the Balmacede and Serrano glaciers. Along the way to the glaciers we'll glide over the bright azure waters, stopping for views of penguin colonies, sea-lions and rushing waterfalls before we finally reach the glittering glaciers. Here, we'll take a short hike and soak up some jaw-dropping vistas.
Day 3: Puerto Natales
Location: Puerto Natales
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Vendaval (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today's your opportunity to explore Puerto Natales for yourself. Check out the ship museum, explore the historic centre, spot condors soaring overhead, discover the Milodon cave or just admire the vibrant colours that paint the sky at sunrise and sunset. There's also an option to enjoy some authentic, rustic Patagonian culture with a visit to an Estancia (working farm) where you can learn about the Gaucho way of life and soak up some scenery atop your very own horse.
Day 4: Puerto Natales
Location: Torres Del Paine National Park
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Vendaval (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today it's time for the headline event, Torres Del Paine National Park. Encompassing lakes, rivers, mountains and glaciers, the Chilean Torres Del Paine National Park is one of the most recognisable symbols of Patagonia’s natural beauty, and today we'll hike deep into this UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. With 17 hours of daylight during the summer months, watching the Torres Del Paine horns reach into the sky, glowing furious violets and reds as the sun sets, is an experience that has no comparison. Keep a look out for foxes, condors, deer and maybe even the elusive puma.
Day 5: Puerto Natales To El Calafate
Location: El Calafate
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Kapenke (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today, after breakfast, we'll make the crossing from Chile to Argentina as the locals do - by public bus, with plenty of opportunity to marvel at the staggering scenery all around us. Named after a berry that, according to legend, once eaten guarantees your return to the Patagonian region, El Calafate is the gateway to even more spectacular beauty, namely the gargantuan Perito Moreno Glacier and the Los Glaciares National Park.
Day 6: El Calafate
Location: El Calafate
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Kapenke (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today we'll visit the Los Glaciares National Park. Known as the 'Austral Andes', this is a bonafide natural wonder of the world, with mountains, lakes, woods, glaciers and the arid Patagonia steppe. We'll hike in the southern area of the park, before taking a tour of the Perito Moreno glacier on a boat, getting up close to the epic walls of ice and watching how its blueish tint dyes the sparkling lake below. This is an experience we'll never forget.
Day 7: El Calafate To El Chaltén
Location: El Chaltén
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Lunajuim Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we'll head to El Chaltén, a small village in the heart of Los Glaciares National Park. Known as the 'capital of trekking' El Chaltén is the perfect place to be immersed in unspoiled nature. Simply walk the magical forest trails and breath the pure mountain air, or opt for an ice climbing lesson for an adventure like no other.
Day 8: El Chaltén
Location: El Chaltén
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Lunajuim Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today is a full day to make the most of El Chaltén. Checking out the rugged, sky-puncturing peaks of Mount Fitz Roy -the most iconic symbols of Patagonia- is a must, and we'll trek to the famous viewpoint of Laguana De los Tres, with the sparkling blue lagoon, granite walls and pure white De los Tres glacier giving us a feast for the eyes unmatched anywhere in the world. We'll have our final group dinner in El Chaltén tonight, still giddy from all that natural beauty.
Day 9: El Chaltén To El Calafate
Location: El Calafate
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we'll show each other our favourite photos and say our sad farewells over a final group breakfast together, but we won't forget those Patagonian peaks in a hurry. We complete our journey with a transfer back to the hotel in El Calafate, where our trip ends on arrival.
What's Included
-
Meals
Meals included as per the itinerary: breakfast daily, some lunches, and some dinners.
-
Transportation
Transportation by public bus from Puerto Natales to El Calafate.
-
Guided Tours
Guided tours and hikes in Torres del Paine National Park, Los Glaciares National Park, and El Chaltén.
-
Catamaran Excursion
Catamaran excursion to Balmacede and Serrano glaciers, including views of penguin colonies, sea lions, and waterfalls.
-
Boat Tour
Boat tour of the Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park.
-
Accommodation
Accommodation at Hotel Vendaval (or similar) in Puerto Natales, Hotel Cyan Calafate (or similar) in El Calafate, and Lunajuim Hotel (or similar) in El Chaltén.
What's Not Included
-
International Flights
International flights to and from the starting and ending points of the tour are not included.
-
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is highly recommended.
-
Optional Activities
Optional activities such as ice climbing lessons in El Chaltén and visits to an Estancia in Puerto Natales are not included.
-
Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and beverages are not included.
-
Tips and Gratuities
Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
Dining Summary
- 3 Dinner (D)
- 8 Breakfast (B)
- 4 Lunch (L)
Active
- El Calafate:
Included Experience
- Puerto Natales: We’ll jump on a catamaran and sail through fjords. Spotting penguins and sea lions on our quest to see the famous glaciers.
- Torres del Paine National Park: If you’re looking for iconic views of mountains, glaciers and lakes to fill your memory and Insta page, this is the place.
- El Calafate:
- El Calafate: Breathe in that pristine air. Immerse yourself in nature. And get the best views of the Perito Moreno Glacier.
- El Chaltén:
- El Chaltén: A trek to the ultimate viewpoint. See the icy blue lagoon. The sparkling glacier. And the jagged peaks that pierce the Patagonian skies.
Nature
- Puerto Natales: We’ll jump on a catamaran and sail through fjords. Spotting penguins and sea lions on our quest to see the famous glaciers.
- Torres del Paine National Park: If you’re looking for iconic views of mountains, glaciers and lakes to fill your memory and Insta page, this is the place.
- El Calafate: Breathe in that pristine air. Immerse yourself in nature. And get the best views of the Perito Moreno Glacier.
Check out our Q&As
-
What wildlife can I expect to see during the Patagonia Trail tour?
During the tour, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including penguins, sea lions, condors, foxes, deer, and possibly even the elusive puma. The catamaran excursion offers views of penguin colonies and sea lions, while Torres del Paine National Park is home to condors, foxes, and deer.
-
What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
Transportation during the tour includes a public bus from Puerto Natales to El Calafate. Additionally, there is a catamaran excursion to the Balmacede and Serrano glaciers and a boat tour of the Perito Moreno Glacier.
-
Are meals included in the Patagonia Trail tour?
Yes, meals are included as per the itinerary. You will have breakfast daily, some lunches, and some dinners included in the tour package.
-
What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
Accommodation is provided at Hotel Vendaval (or similar) in Puerto Natales, Hotel Cyan Calafate (or similar) in El Calafate, and Lunajuim Hotel (or similar) in El Chaltén.
-
What activities are included in the tour?
The tour includes guided tours and hikes in Torres del Paine National Park, Los Glaciares National Park, and El Chaltén. There is also a catamaran excursion to the Balmacede and Serrano glaciers and a boat tour of the Perito Moreno Glacier.
-
Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, there are optional activities such as ice climbing lessons in El Chaltén and visits to an Estancia in Puerto Natales, which are not included in the tour package.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
-
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
-
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
-
What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
Reviews of this operator
Save on this tour
Request your exclusive discount code now and unlock savings for your next adventure!
Send me one now.1 Select your preferred date
Monday - Tuesday
Mar 10, 2025 - Mar 18, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Nov 17, 2025 - Nov 25, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Dec 22, 2025 - Dec 30, 2025Monday - Tuesday
Jan 05, 2026 - Jan 13, 2026Monday - Tuesday
Feb 02, 2026 - Feb 10, 2026Monday - Tuesday
Mar 09, 2026 - Mar 17, 2026Monday - Tuesday
Nov 16, 2026 - Nov 24, 2026Monday - Tuesday
Dec 21, 2026 - Dec 29, 2026Monday - Tuesday
Jan 04, 2027 - Jan 12, 2027Monday - Tuesday
Feb 01, 2027 - Feb 09, 2027Monday - Tuesday
Mar 08, 2027 - Mar 16, 2027Book with Confidence
-
Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
-
Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
-
Terms and Conditions
Enquire for huge savings
Rated 5* on Trust Pilot & ABTA Protected.