Much like the Patagonia region of Chile, the Argentinian Patagonia is situated closer to the Atlantic Ocean. Here the characteristic golden lowlands of the Pampas meet breathtaking fjords, channels and bays that are home to thriving sea life.
An iconic destination in Atlantic Patagonia is the renowned World Heritage Site of Peninsula Valdes where orcas beach themselves on the shoreline in an attempt to grab a sea lion (the only place where this spectacle has been witnessed) and southern right whales and elephant seals explore the waters during the months of July through December.
Be sure to head westward to the Andes to visit the popular Parque Nacional los Glaciares where you can view the advancing Perito Moreno glacier. For a truly authentic rural experience, stop over at an estancia (working ranch) to view the daily adventures of the country’s gauchos (cowboys).
Why Visit?
- The beautiful Parque Nacional Los Glaciares and Chalten area is a must-see when visiting the Patagonia region. Here, untamed wilderness meets the rugged summits of snow-capped mountains of the Cerro Torre and Cerro Fitz Roy. This is prime hiking and mountain climbing country.
- A stop in Patagonia wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Glaciar Perito Moreno. Measuring 30 kilometres long and 5 kilometres wide, this behemoth ice structure moves up to 2 mm a day but the ice breakouts are what makes for great photographic opportunities.
- Argentina is renowned for its estancias (working ranches). There’s no better way to immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of the region than by spending a day (or three) experiencing the daily hustle and bustle of the gauchos.
- The Peninsula Valdes is jam-packed with incredible marine life encounters. It is here that you will find a thriving population of sea lions, elephant seals, penguins and the southern right whale.
- Follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin. Patagonia was a favourite haunting ground for this avid naturalist and geologist.
Climate
Summer (October-April)
Min 7°C/45°F Max 30°C/86°F
Winter (May-September)
Min 0°C/32°F Max 10°C/50°F
Given that Patagonia covers such a large geographic distance and its high altitude, the climates can vary greatly between the different regions.
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