My travel guide for Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Read MoreEl Chalten, Argentina
El Chalten is known as the trekking capital of the world, and for good reason. It's a modest little town with some not so modest mountains and hiking opportunities. Nestled right beneath the Mount Fitz Roy this town offers a lot to any person who loves both adventure and food. This was the crown jewel for my trip around Patagonia. The combination of friendly locals, adventurous souls from all over, and Fitz Roy is everything I have ever wanted. Beware though: credit card is accepted almost no where in town and there is only one ATM that works about half the time. So bring cash!
Stay
Can't Miss
Tres de Largos hike: The longest day hike and hardest hike in the national park, but very very worth it. The hike gets you as close to Fitz Roy as possible, without actually scaling the peak and the view is incredible. Beware though, the last hour of the hike is incredibly steep and physically daunting, so refill your water bottle at Laguna Capri on the way there. If I can do it, you can do it!
Eat / Drink
La Panderia - A little bakery with great (and cheap) sandwiches and backed goods! This place was my go to for day pack lunches.
B&B Burgers - 110 pesos for a burger, fries, and a pint of beer. A nice reward after a long day of hiking.
Isabel Cocina al Disco - Delicious and all meals are made to share between two people!
Heladería Domo Blanco - GREAT ice cream!!
Ushuaia, Argentina
Ushuaia, or as it is better know, "The End of the World," was the last on my two week Patagonian adventure. While the city itself isn't much to write home about, the views are unparalleled. The city is about a thirty minute bus ride from the famed Tierra Del Fuego National Park and the main attraction to the city. There is also the opportunity to see penguins, ski, sail along the Beagle Channel, and is the entry way to Antartica.
Stay
Can't Miss
The Beagle Channel boat tour! This was one of those things I begrudgingly handed my money over too, but man, was it worth it. This was my last activity on my trip and I loved every second of it. The views are unmatched and it was a nice way to relax at the end of my trip. So bring a bottle of your favorite beverage + camera and enjoy!
Eat/Drink
Dublin's - the go to place for travelers
Maria Lola - if you love sea food, this is the place for you
El Calafate, Argentina
I have to be honest, when I was first looking into traveling to Patagonia El Calafate was a blimp on my radar. The glacier didn't really catch my attention compared to the mountains, but boy, am I glad I went. El Calafate is a beautiful little city with a beautiful big glacier. Perito Moreno took my breath away and was definitely a highlight on my trip - so much so that I went back again! I would suggest staying in El Calafate for about 2 days. The first to see the glacier and the second to explore the city.
Stay
American Del Sur Hostel: I haven't personally stayed there but all of my friends who have rave about it. I've also heard they have the best breakfast in town!
Can't Miss
The Perito Moreno Glacier, why else would you go to Calafate? Definitely spend the extra money to go on the boat tour and take the day to hike the paths around the glacier.
In the summer Calafate puts on a bunch of free concerts in their town square, if you're in town definitely check it out!
Pro tip: there are some flamingos living in the lake that you can go visit!
Eat
Don Pichon - Amazing lamb, amazing apple pie, and the best service I have yet to experience in South America. Also, a beautiful view of the water!
Bariloche, Argentina
Be still my heart. Bariloche was my first stop on my Patagonia adventure and definitely a place I will never forget. Bariloche is nestled in the mountains overlooking the spectacular Lake Bariloche. This city holds some of the most breathtaking views I’ve ever had the honor to look upon. It’s a popular destination for college kids to come on holiday, skiers, and, of course, backpackers. The city is very walkable and hitchhiking is one of the most popular ways to get around.
Stay
I stayed at Design Suites Bariloche and had a wonderful experience! The hotel has a spa, restaurant, infinity pool that overlooks the water, and large rooms with great views as well! It was a short walk to some beaches and the city.
Do
Go outside and explore!! There are many options including hikes, horseback riding, kayaking, and so much more!! Ask your hotel or research online for some activities that you would be interested in because Bariloche offers so much! Some of my favorite things I did was taking a gondola ride at Cerro Companario + kayaking on Lake Gutierrez. Also, make sure you make time for the city. I didn’t get to explore the city as much as I would have liked to – so don’t be like me!!
Can’t Miss
Cerro Companario – Gondala ride that takes you to a gorgeous view and Saint Bernard dogs.
Circito Chico – tour around Lake Bariloche
Eat
Familia Weiss – Great steak!!
Rapa Nui Chocolates + Ice Cream – Delicious.
