Patagonia Buenos Aires and Santiago Explorer
Select Date
Air Details
Customize
Summary
My Trip Plan
Check Out
Duration
13 DaysStarts In
Buenos AiresRoute
Buenos Aires, El Calafate, Torres del Paine, Santiago
Embark on a captivating 13-day journey through Argentina and Chile, discovering the cultural treasures and natural wonders of South America. Begin in Buenos Aires, Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital, where historic plazas, tango rhythms, and colorful neighborhoods set the stage. Fly south to El Calafate, gateway to Patagonia, to marvel at the breathtaking Perito Moreno Glacier and explore the wild beauty of Los Glaciares National Park. Cross into Chile and immerse yourself in the majestic landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park, where granite peaks, glaciers, and abundant wildlife await. Conclude in Santiago de Chile, a city that blends colonial heritage with modern sophistication, surrounded by the Andes and wine valleys. This carefully curated itinerary offers the perfect balance of culture, adventure, and natural beauty across two iconic destinations.
Includes
- Keytours 24-hour emergency assistance
- Private arrival and departure transfers as per itinerary
- Accommodations of your choice
- Sightseeing tours and/or activites of your choice
Excludes
- Items of a personal nature
- All other items not mentioned as included
- Domestic flights; please inquire with your Keytours travel consultant
- Gratuities for drivers, guides, and escorts
Itinerary
Day
1
1
Day 1
Arrival in Buenos Aires
Arrive at Buenos Aires International Airport, where a representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital, often called the “Paris of South America,” is a vibrant mix of European architecture, tango rhythms, and Latin energy. Depending on your arrival time, stroll through elegant neighborhoods such as Recoleta or relax at one of the city’s stylish cafés. Admire tree-lined boulevards, bustling plazas, and the lively atmosphere that makes Buenos Aires unforgettable. In the evening, unwind at your hotel and prepare for the adventures ahead. This city will serve as the perfect introduction to your South American journey, blending history, gastronomy, and culture.
Day
2
2
Day 2
Buenos Aires City Tour
After breakfast, embark on a guided Buenos Aires city tour. Explore the historic Plaza de Mayo, home to the Metropolitan Cathedral, Cabildo, and Casa Rosada. Continue along Avenida 9 de Julio, one of the widest avenues in the world, featuring the iconic Obelisk. Visit San Telmo, known for its colonial charm and tango spirit, then head to La Boca, famous for the colorful houses of Caminito and its strong artistic identity. Drive through modern Puerto Madero, now a hub of fine dining and luxury living, before reaching the refined Recoleta neighborhood. Here, you’ll see the world-renowned Recoleta Cemetery, final resting place of Eva Perón. This tour showcases Buenos Aires’ cultural diversity and unique personality.
Day
3
3
Day 3
Leisure Day in Buenos Aires
Enjoy breakfast and a full day at leisure in Buenos Aires. Today is yours to explore the city at your own pace. You may revisit favorite spots, discover hidden corners, or relax in the lush Palermo parks. Art lovers can visit the MALBA Museum, while food enthusiasts might choose to sample Argentine cuisine on a guided gastronomic tour. If shopping is of interest, boutiques in Palermo Soho and Avenida Santa Fe provide endless opportunities. In the evening, you could opt for an optional tango dinner show, where passionate dance, live music, and fine cuisine combine for an unforgettable cultural night. This day offers flexibility, allowing you to experience Buenos Aires your way.
Day
4
4
Day 4
Arrival in El Calafate
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight south to El Calafate, the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. Nestled on the shores of Lake Argentino, El Calafate is a picturesque Patagonian town surrounded by rugged steppe landscapes and snowcapped peaks. Spend the afternoon exploring at your leisure: stroll along the waterfront, visit the Glaciarium Museum, or simply relax and take in the sweeping scenery. Known as the base for excursions to the famous Perito Moreno Glacier, El Calafate is a charming and comfortable stop for travelers venturing into Argentine Patagonia.
Day
5
5
Day 5
Perito Moreno Glacier Excursion
After breakfast, set out on a full-day excursion to the legendary Perito Moreno Glacier, one of Patagonia’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Located within Los Glaciares National Park, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its massive ice walls and dramatic ruptures. Walk along a series of viewing platforms that provide breathtaking panoramas of the glacier’s 70-meter-high façade, where immense chunks of ice frequently calve into Lake Argentino with thunderous splashes. Optional boat rides bring you even closer to the glacier’s towering blue face. Guides will explain the glacier’s formation, movement, and ecological importance. This excursion is a highlight of any Patagonia journey, combining adventure, photography, and natural beauty. Return to El Calafate.
Day
6
6
Day 6
Leisure Day in El Calafate
After breakfast, enjoy a day at leisure in El Calafate. Options include a boat trip across Lake Argentino to view other glaciers such as Upsala and Spegazzini, or a visit to a traditional Patagonian estancia, where you can learn about sheep farming and savor a barbecue lunch. For a lighter day, explore the Laguna Nimez Reserve, a birdwatching haven home to flamingos, swans, and more than 80 species. Alternatively, stroll through town and discover artisanal shops offering local crafts, wool, and regional liqueurs. This flexible day allows you to choose between further adventure or a slower pace, taking in the serene landscapes and culture of Patagonia.
Day
7
7
Day 7
Arrival in Torres del Paine
After breakfast, cross the border into Chile and continue your journey to Torres del Paine National Park, one of the world’s most spectacular wilderness destinations. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel or lodge, perfectly situated for exploring this vast natural reserve. The park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, famed for its jagged granite peaks, turquoise lakes, glaciers, and sweeping steppe. On the way, enjoy views of guanacos grazing and condors soaring overhead. The rest of the day is free to relax at your lodge, perhaps with a welcome drink while admiring the magnificent scenery. Tomorrow, your personalized excursions into Torres del Paine begin.
Day
8
8
Day 8
Excursions in Torres del Paine
After breakfast, set out on one of the excursions offered by your lodge in Torres del Paine. Options range from leisurely walks and photography tours to full-day hikes for the adventurous. Popular highlights include Salto Grande waterfall, Grey Glacier viewpoint, and treks to Cuernos del Paine. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot guanacos, foxes, or even the elusive puma. Each excursion is guided by experts who tailor the experience to your interests and fitness level. Whether crossing turquoise lakes by boat, hiking through lenga forests, or exploring valleys shaped by glaciers, today is a chance to fully immerse yourself in this remarkable Patagonian landscape. Return to your lodge for dinner and relaxation.
Day
9
9
Day 9
More Adventures in Torres del Paine
After breakfast, continue exploring Torres del Paine with another full day of excursions. Choose from half- or full-day options, such as a hike to the Base of the Towers, one of the park’s most iconic trails, or horseback riding across open pampas alongside local gauchos. Scenic drives and short hikes provide easy access to lagoons, valleys, and panoramic lookouts, ensuring travelers of all levels enjoy the park’s beauty. Birdwatchers can spot flamingos, condors, and caracaras in their natural habitat. Every activity in Torres del Paine is designed to showcase its diverse ecosystems, from glaciers to golden grasslands. In the evening, relax in the comfort of your lodge, savoring Chilean wines and regional cuisine.
Day
10
10
Day 10
Arrival in Santiago de Chile
After breakfast, transfer to Punta Arenas or Puerto Natales Airport for your flight to Santiago de Chile, the nation’s dynamic capital. Upon arrival, meet your representative and transfer to your hotel. Nestled between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Santiago combines modern sophistication with rich history. Depending on arrival time, you may choose to explore nearby neighborhoods like Lastarria or enjoy a relaxing evening with views of the city skyline. Santiago serves as both a bustling metropolis and a gateway to Chile’s diverse landscapes, making it the perfect finale to your Patagonia adventure. Rest and prepare for tomorrow’s city tour, which will introduce you to the heart of the capital.
Day
11
11
Day 11
Santiago City Tour
After breakfast, enjoy a guided city tour of Santiago. Begin along La Alameda, the main avenue, passing the Presidential Palace of La Moneda. Visit Plaza de Armas, the historic heart of the city, surrounded by landmarks such as the Metropolitan Cathedral and Central Post Office. Continue to Cerro Santa Lucía, where Santiago was founded, and admire panoramic views of the city framed by the Andes. Explore Parque Forestal, home to the Museum of Fine Arts, before heading to the bohemian Bellavista neighborhood, known for its vibrant street art and cultural scene. Conclude with a visit to modern districts like Providencia and Vitacura, ending at Bicentennial Park. This tour highlights Santiago’s unique blend of tradition and modernity.
Day
12
12
Day 12
Leisure Day in Santiago
After breakfast, enjoy a day at leisure to discover Santiago at your own pace. You may explore Mercado Central, one of the city’s best places to sample Chilean seafood, or visit the Pre-Columbian Art Museum for insight into Latin America’s cultural heritage. Wine enthusiasts may opt for a half-day excursion to nearby vineyards in the Maipo Valley, while others may take a cable car ride up Cerro San Cristóbal for breathtaking views of the city. Shopping enthusiasts will enjoy the boutiques of Barrio Italia or the malls in Las Condes. This free day allows you to experience Santiago’s many faces—historic, cultural, modern, and culinary—according to your interests.
Day
13
13
Day 13
Departure from Santiago de Chile
After breakfast, at the scheduled time, transfer to Santiago Airport for your departing flight. As your journey concludes, reflect on the unforgettable experiences of the past two weeks: the elegance of Buenos Aires, the breathtaking ice of Perito Moreno Glacier, the wild majesty of Torres del Paine, and the cosmopolitan charm of Santiago de Chile. This itinerary has blended culture, history, adventure, and nature across two captivating countries. Whether you were enchanted by tango rhythms, glacier views, Patagonian wildlife, or Chilean wines, these memories will remain long after your journey ends.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Patagonia Explorer package includes 3 nights in Buenos Aires, 3 nights in El Calafate, 3 nights in Torres del Paine, and 3 nights in Santiago, making it a 13-day journey.
The highlights include exploring Buenos Aires with its tango rhythms and historic plazas, visiting the Perito Moreno Glacier in El Calafate, experiencing the natural beauty of Torres del Paine National Park, and discovering Santiago's blend of colonial heritage and modern sophistication.
No, domestic flights are not included in the package. You will need to arrange these separately, and it is recommended to inquire with your travel consultant for assistance.
The package includes 24-hour emergency assistance, private arrival and departure transfers, accommodations of your choice, and sightseeing tours or activities of your choice.
During leisure days in Buenos Aires, you can explore the city at your own pace, visit art museums like MALBA, enjoy Argentine cuisine on a gastronomic tour, shop in Palermo Soho, or attend an optional tango dinner show.
In Torres del Paine, you can choose from leisurely walks, photography tours, full-day hikes, or activities like horseback riding and birdwatching. Excursions are guided and tailored to your interests and fitness level.
The package includes private transfers upon arrival and departure in each city, but domestic flights between cities like Buenos Aires, El Calafate, and Santiago are not included and need to be arranged separately.
Book Your Trip
Include Flights?
Help
Monday through Friday 9 am to 7 pm EST
Reach us by phone
+1 (800) 576-1784
Reach us by email
info@keytours.com