My travel guide for Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Read MoreColonia, Uruguay
Going to Colonia was kind of a last minute decision for me. I wanted a quick (and cheap) weekend get away that would allow me to reflect on my time in South America, and Colonia gave me just that. I took the Colonia Express Ferry from Buenos Aires and in less than 2 hours arrived in Uruguay and rented a bike from there. Colonia is an amazing little town that I would definitely recommend for a day or two!
Stay
El Viajero - Great space and met some amazing people during my stay here. The staff wasn't great, but for a night or two that doesn't really matter as long as the sheets and room is clean!
Eat
Pizzería Don Joaquín - Great pizza, right next to the hostel, and accepts credit card!!
A la Pipetúa - The cutest little restaurant tucked away on the coast of the city. Incredible palle! Only accepts cash though.
Bocadesanto - This is the cutest little place that I cannot recommend enough. It is very secluded, but such a gem. It's a burger/bakery which is a great enough combo to begin with, that has a wonderful service, cute atmosphere and beautiful rooftop if you're lucky enough to see it.
Can't Miss
Definitely rent a bike for the weekend, it's a beautiful ride throughout the town. There is also an old bull fighting arena (pictured left) that is well worth the ride out of town for, if you're up for an adventure.
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
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!
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.
Puerto Varas + Chiloé Island, Chile
Chiloe Island is a little spot I have dreamed about for a while and Puerto Varas is the little gem I found on the road there. It took me three boats and four buses to get from Bariloche, Argentina to Puerto Varas, Chile, but let me tell you: it was so worth it! Puerto Varas is a beautiful little city nestled right on the Pacific Ocean. It is beautiful, friendly, and has a lot to offer a young traveler. It's also only about 2 hours from Chiloe Island which made it my ideal location to set up camp!
Stay
I stayed at the Hotel Patagonica. It was more of an upscale hotel/resort that I wouldn't recommend for backpackers or travelers on a strict budget. It offered great amenities and views so if you're wanting to splurge and get some good relaxation in - this is the place for you!
Do
Enjoy everything this city has to offer!! Lot's of nightlife and water activities. And during their summer season they offer a lot of free concerts and festivals.
Can't Miss
Chilo Island. The ferry ride to the island itself was great! Take time to explore the colorful houses of Chacau and then head further down the island to the Punihuil Penguin Colony for the most amazing beach you've ever seen and fun little adventure. Don't forget to visit the fresh markets in Ancud either! I would recommend taking two days to explore Chiloe, if possible. I think the best way to see it would be to rent a car for those days!
Eat
La Jardinera - make a reservation!!!!
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.
