PATAGONIA
The Trip You'll Talk About Forever
Patagonia is the end of the world — literally and figuratively. The southern tip of South America, shared between Chile and Argentina, is a place of almost incomprehensible natural drama: granite towers rising from the steppe, glaciers calving into turquoise lakes, condors riding thermals overhead. The W Trek in Torres del Paine is one of the world's great multi-day hikes. It's not easy, and it's not cheap — but every single member who's done it says it's the best thing they've ever done.
Best For
- Trekking
- Adventure
- Photography
The Guide
WHAT TO DO &
WHERE TO GO
Torres del Paine: The W Trek
The W Trek is a 4–5 day hike through the heart of Torres del Paine National Park, taking in the iconic granite towers, the Grey Glacier, and the Valle del Francés. Huts (refugios) along the route mean you don't need to carry camping gear. Book months in advance — spots sell out fast.
El Calafate & Perito Moreno Glacier
On the Argentine side, the Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the few advancing glaciers in the world — and one of the most spectacular. Watch massive chunks of ice calve into Lago Argentino from the walkways, or take a boat for a closer look. El Calafate is the base town.
El Chaltén & Mount Fitz Roy
El Chaltén is a tiny trekking village at the base of Mount Fitz Roy — the jagged peak that inspired the Patagonia clothing logo. Day hikes from town to the Laguna de los Tres viewpoint are among the best in South America. No park fees, no permits — just show up and walk.
The Carretera Austral
Chile's Route 7 — the Carretera Austral — runs 770 miles through some of the most remote and beautiful scenery on earth. Rent a 4WD and drive it, or sections of it. Hanging glaciers, fjords, hot springs, and almost no other traffic. Allow 10–14 days for the full route.
"I did the W Trek at 67 with a bad knee and a lot of stubbornness. Hardest thing I've done in 20 years. Also the best. If you're thinking about it — stop thinking and go."
— Community Member
Trip Planning
PRACTICAL
INFO
Best time to visit
November–March (Southern Hemisphere summer)
Currency
Chilean Peso / Argentine Peso
Language
Spanish — limited English outside tourist areas
Getting around
Fly to Punta Arenas or Puerto Natales; rent 4WD
Budget (daily)
$150–$300 USD; W Trek refugios add up
Fitness level
Good fitness required for multi-day trekking
Weather
Extremely unpredictable — four seasons in one day is normal
Flight time from Miami
Approx. 9–11 hours to Santiago, then connect
Community