El 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

Condor de los Andes Hostel

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 

Hostel Cruz Del Sur

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!

Torres Del Paine, Chile

Wow, ya'll. Where to begin. The stories I have from this place! TDP gave me my first "typical" Patagonia experiences. From 125+ winds, watching a bus flip over, crossing rickety bridges, chasing Guanacos in an open field, to experiencing all 4 seasons in a matter of hours - this place put me through the ringer. I loved it. Disclaimer: you do need a guide for Torres Del Paine - absolutely, 100%. 

Stay

I stayed at the Rio Serrano Hotel, again not ideal for backpackers or traveling on a budget, but nevertheless a great hotel with stunning views, a great location, and a yummy restaurant! The wifi wasn't great and only available in the lobby, but what can you expect from the middle of nowhere. I enjoyed my time there! And again - stunning views! 

Do

The Falls

The W Trail 

Can't Miss

Glacier Largo Grey (it is mandatory to have a guide for this section of TDL National Park). I don't really know how to explain it other than just imploring that you have to go visit! It's incredible! Sadly,  I was not able to do the hike to get to the best view because of the wind, but you should go and tell me how it is! 

Eat

There aren't many restaurants in this area...actually I didn't eat at any but my hotel restaurant. But I would highly suggest G Sushi in Puerto Natales on your way over to Torres Del Paine.