Patagonia is a vast region covering both southern Chile and Argentina and we’re often asked if there is a significant difference between the two countries, or if one is ‘better’ than the other. We look at the similarities and differences in this quick guide.
In terms of overall scenery, it’s somewhat similar throughout with extremely impressive mountain ranges, granite peaks, glacial lakes, icebergs and glaciers as well as vast flat open land, known as the ‘estepa’ or ‘Patagonian steppe’. The exception here is with the famous ‘Perito Moreno’ glacier, which is the largest glacier in Patagonia and is found near El Calafate, Argentina.
On the Chilean side, you will find Torres del Paine National Park, famous for the granite peaks known as the ‘Base of the Towers’ as well as the ‘Paine Horns’ or ‘Cuernos’ in Spanish. The scenery here is majestic and powerful with impressive mountains, lakes and glaciers, and offers some of the most popular hikes in Patagonia.
In Argentina, the scenery is equally as impressive but the area around El Calafate and on your way to El Chalten is majoritively Patagonian steppe – the flat barren grasslands where you can find foxes, hares, armadillos, rhea (a type of ostrich) and vicuña (from the Alpaca family). When you approach El Chalten, this is where you will find Mount Fitz Roy and Los Glaciares National Park. Here, there are typically less people than in Torres del Paine (although it still can get busy is peak season Dec-Feb) and the hikes on offer have you walking through forest and past streams – some more challenging than others but equally as beautiful.
The difference between the two areas is more obvious in the infrastructure, logistics and cost for visiting the two areas.
For example, in Chile one of the biggest national parks in Patagonia, Torres del Paine, is extremely remote and accommodation consists of mainly all-inclusive lodges. Naturally, including meals, drinks, transport, guided excursions and accommodation, a stay here is typically more expensive than visiting a similar area on the Argentine side, known as the Fitz Roy National Park near the town El Chalten. While there is now one remote all-inclusive lodge near El Chalten, most of the accommodation here is in town and thus sold on a breakfast-only basis, and many of the hiking trails are well sign posted and start in the town centre, so there’s not as much need for guides and pre-arranged transport.
For keen hikers, a typical trip to the Argentine side of Patagnoia would include a few nights in El Calafate to see the Perito Moreno glacier as well as local estancias, followed by a few nights in El Chalten for some of the epic hikes available in the region.
In El Chalten, Laguna de los Tres is one of the most challenging and scenic treks in this part of Patagonia. It ascends through beech woodlands (known as ñire), past turquoise Laguna Capri and finally up a rocky mountainside trail to the glacial lagoon or Laguna de los Tres with excellent views of Mount Fitz Roy. Another popular hike in Argentine Patagonia is Laguna Torre, taking you through the river valley and lenga and ñire forests, which are particularly eye-catching on an autumnal day, before reaching the Laguna Torre viewpoint. On a sunny day, you’ll have clear views of the glaciers, Cerro Torre and Mount FitzRoy.
For Chile, a typical route would involve a longer stay (usually 4-6 nights) in Torres del Paine National Park on an all-inclusive basis.
In Torres del Paine National Park, you’ll find some of the epic Patagonia hikes, such as the Base of the Towers trek, the French Valley trek or the O trek or the W trek, which last several days. The latter two are given their names due to the shape of the route, with overnight stops along the way in simple refuges. The W trek takes you through the French Valley for an up-close look at Los Cuernos – the park’s bell shaped mountain range, followed by a final push to reach the base of the towers. On a sunny day, the Base of the Towers’ view is truly spectacular. The W trek totals 46 miles and isn’t for the faint hearted!
Located within Torres del Paine National Park, Explora has two granite peaks in plain view from almost every angle of the property. A fantastic opportunity to get outdoors and explore the national park by foot.
An eco-luxury camp located on the edge of Torres del Paine National Park, offering an intimate experience in the breathtaking Patagonian wilderness.
With a focus on eco-conscious luxury, this architecturally impressive property offers a haven of relaxation and adventure on the Eastern shore of Lake Sarmiento.
The Singular Patagonia is the preserver of the century old cold storage Frigorífico Bories, declared a national heritage in 1996, the museum has preserved the original century-old industrial machinery.
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With views of the jagged peaks of the Torres del Paine Mountains, the grassy steppes and the Sarmiento Lake, there couldn’t be a more beautiful and private place to take in the scenery of Patagonia.
Tierra is located on the edge of the park and Explora is located within the park itself. Awasi is located on a private reserve next to Torres del Paine National Park and is the only lodge offering fully private services. Patagonia Camp is a unique accommodation option, consisting of yurts perched in the hillside by a beautiful lake. They offer trips into the national park as well as other activities more local to the property. The Singular is located just outside the town of Puerto Natales, a couple of hours’ drive from Torres del Paine National Park. They offer their own activities around Puerto Natales and to some of the lesser visited areas of interest, but also offer day trips into the park which is further away.
EOLO has the most amazing location, with a sense of true remoteness amongst the Patagonian steppe. The sunsets are incredible and the views from every single floor to ceiling window are truly spectacular.
A unique and exclusive accommodation, tucked away in a peaceful corner of El Chaltén, being the only property visible in the area.
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For a true sense of wilderness, cross the cobalt waters of the Lago Argentino, passing ice floes and giant icebergs before you land on the shores of this historic estancia.
EOLO and Estancia Cristina are located closer to El Calafate, famous for the Perito Moreno glacier, and offer their own unique experiences, such as history, wildlife and cultural tours. Explora and Chalten Camps are located close to El Chalten and are more focused on trekking experiences and the outdoors.
Both of these places can be combined for a full Patagonia experience, starting in Santiago and finishing in Buenos Aires (or vice-versa). For an extended trip, consider visiting the Iguazu Falls and on to Rio for a few nights, or visiting the Atacama Desert before heading down to Patagonia. Finally, an Antarctic cruise is, for most, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and the perfect Patagonia add-on to a guaranteed action-packed adventure with scenery you’ll never forget.
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