Patagonia, an incredible region spanning 900,000 square miles in Argentina and Chile, offers breathtaking landscapes. With mountains, fjords, lakes, temperate rainforests and glaciers - Patagonia truly stands as one of South America's most picturesque destinations.

Planning an itinerary for this remote region is essential if you want a successful trip. Consider factors like travel dates, how to cross the border between Chile and Argentina, what to pack, where to stay, and more when making your decision.

How to get there

Patagonia is an incredible region, yet it can be challenging to reach or explore. That is why planning your trip carefully is essential if you want to maximize your experience here.

First and foremost, decide which part of Patagonia you would like to explore. There are plenty of options, but it's essential that you select the correct region so that you can truly take in this remarkable region of Earth.

Once you've selected your destination, the next step is to book tickets for your visit. To do this, research all available flights and compare them to find the cheapest one for you.

Plane travel is undoubtedly the quickest and most convenient option, but it can also be expensive - often more than bus transport would cost. To maximize your chances of booking a seat on an airline, we suggest booking at least six months ahead since seats tend to fill up quickly during peak seasons.

When planning your travel budget, flying to Buenos Aires in Argentina and then taking a hopper flight to your final destination can save you both time and money.

Another option is to fly from Buenos Aires to Santiago de Chile, the capital city of southern Chile. From there, you can either take a bus or rent a car for your final destination.

Patagonia's most accessible mode of travel is by plane. Airlines operate regularly from major cities worldwide to Buenos Aires and Santiago de Chile, where you can connect with any airport in Patagonia.

When visiting Patagonia, the weather can abruptly shift. That is especially true if you plan to visit in winter or spring. Be sure to check the forecast before boarding your plane for safety.

Patagonia also offers boat and bus transportation in addition to airplanes. While these modes of transport tend to be more budget friendly than flying, they may take more time due to long distances being covered.

What to pack

Patagonia, located at the southernmost tip of South America, is a vast region with mountains, glaciers and pampas (grasslands). It stretches across two countries in South America--Chile and Argentina--and boasts numerous national parks. From coasts to mountains, lakes to rivers, fjords to rain forests--there's so much beauty in and around this incredible part of the world.

As its name suggests, Patagonia is renowned for its stunning landscape and outdoor activities such as hiking, boating and skiing. If you're planning a trip to this stunning region, ensure you pack appropriately so you can fully savor your time there.

First and foremost, you need a reliable pair of hiking boots to keep your feet dry and prevent blisters on long hikes. Select boots that allow your feet to breathe easily and are comfortable to walk in; ideally with cushioned soles.

Another essential item is a strong and durable backpack to transport your gear. If you're embarking on an extended trek, a larger pack is ideal for transporting all supplies and equipment. On shorter trips, however, daypacks can be utilized to carry essentials like water, snacks and camera equipment.

Be sure to bring plenty of clothing for protection from the elements when visiting Patagonia. The climate can be unpredictable there, so dress in layers to regulate temperature and shield yourself from sun or wind exposure.

High-wicking fabrics such as merino wool or bamboo should be your go-to garments when hiking, since they draw moisture away from your skin to dry quickly and reduce perspiration. Plus, these tend to be lighter weight than regular fabric so they'll fit easily in a backpack and provide additional warmth when needed.

For cold weather, wearing a long sleeve shirt is essential as it keeps you warm. Additionally, adding thermal underwear can be useful on multi-day hikes when temperatures begin to dip later in the evening.

Where to stay

Patagonia is an expansive and wild region. While it can be challenging to locate suitable accommodations when visiting this breathtaking region, there are plenty of choices available.

Accommodations in the region range from budget-friendly campsites and family guesthouses that don't appear on booking sites to mid-range hotels and luxurious lodges. To get the most out of your experience, consider booking a package tour which includes accommodation as well as transfers and excursions.

You could also arrange accommodation yourself. There are plenty of Argentine gaucho ranches that cater to tourists, offering a unique gastronomic experience as well as horseback-riding opportunities.

In the region, there are plenty of hotels to choose from - from budget-friendly to luxurious. Many are owned and operated by local families who live nearby.

One such hotel is the Explora Hotel in El Chalten, situated among forests with stunning views of the Electrico Valley and Marconi Glacier. This establishment makes it a haven for hikers as it's situated within a protected nature reserve.

For a sustainable vacation in Patagonia, EcoCamp is an excellent option. Situated within Torres del Paine National Park, it provides guests with activities like hiking and camping as well as accommodation in its sustainable lodge.

The best part is that these remote lodges offer all-inclusive pricing, so you won't have to worry about extra expenses for meals or other services. That way, you'll make the most out of your time in this stunning destination!

Patagonia's best time to visit is between September and April, when the weather is most beautiful and transportation easier. Airlines usually operate flights between both countries during this period, so plan your trip accordingly.

What to do

Patagonia is one of the world's most spectacular destinations, boasting mountains, lakes, rivers, fjords and rain forests. You'll also have plenty of animal encounters along the way - from elephant seals and sea lions to orcas and penguins - making for an unforgettable itinerary.

Patagonia offers an abundance of outdoor adventures, from hikes through pristine beech and myrtle forest to boat tours on its impressive fjords. If you're seeking the ultimate challenge, whitewater rafting or kayaking through glacier ice is both excellent options for exploration.

Hiking is one of the most beloved activities in Patagonia. For an amazing day-long excursion, try Laguna de Los Tres - hike up to a lake surrounded by Cerro Fitzroy and other iconic Patagonian peaks; or head to El Chalten, a charming hamlet offering various hiking trails suitable for all abilities.

Take a boat tour on Lago Argentino for an up-close view of Patagonia's most stunning glaciers by taking one. Pass by some odd-shaped icebergs that form Upsala Glacier - South America's largest.

Patagonia's best seasons to visit are spring when wildflowers are blooming, or fall when they turn an intense red and orange. Summer, however, tends to be the busiest season of the year due to its popularity among tourists.

To avoid the crowds and enjoy some of Patagonia's most stunning scenery, we suggest planning your trip during winter or early spring. These months tend to have less precipitation, making it easier for you to hike and climb at higher altitudes.

Wildlife enthusiasts should not miss a visit to Peninsula Valdes, an Argentinean nature reserve along the shoreline. Here you'll find various animals such as orcas, elephant seals and southern right whales living in peace and safety.

This protected area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best spots to observe marine mammals in their natural environment. There are plenty of estancias where you can stay and take part in various outdoor activities like mountain biking or sheep shearing demonstrations.