PATAGONIA, THE NATURAL
WONDERS OF ARGENTINA AND CHILE ITINERARY:
Day 1 — Depart the U.S.
Depart the U.S. on an overnight flight for Buenos Aires.
Day 2 — Buenos Aires, Argentina
Your tour of Argentina and Chile begins today in the
sophisticated city of Buenos Aires. European architecture, wide
boulevards, colorful neighborhoods, and charming sidewalk cafes
have earned it a reputation as "the Paris of South America."
This afternoon enjoy a panoramic tour of the city before meeting
fellow travelers for a special welcome dinner. (D)
Day 3 — Buenos Aires
Venture into the Argentinean countryside and visit a typical
estancia (ranch), where gauchos demonstrate their impressive
horsemanship as well as their skill with ropes and bolas. Then
enjoy a true taste of Argentina with a delicious asado, a
traditional meal consisting of meats grilled over an open fire.
After lunch, sit back and enjoy some traditional gaucho music
and dancing. (B,L)
Day 4 — San Carlos de Bariloche
Fly south to the beautiful city of San Carlos de Bariloche.
Nestled at the foot of the Andes, this small city is the scenic
gem of Argentina. Glacial blue Lago Nahuel Huapi laps at its
shores, snow-covered mountains dominate the horizon, and
charming European architecture creates an atmosphere reminiscent
of an Alpine village. (B,D)
Day 5 — San Carlos de Bariloche
Today is yours to explore beautiful Bariloche independently.
You may choose to browse the many handicraft shops, indulge in
the city's famous decadent chocolate, or take a stroll along the
scenic lake walk. Or, perhaps take an optional Circuito Chico
Tour of Bariloche and enjoy a typical fondue dinner at a local
restaurant. (B)
Day 6 — Bariloche and Puerto Varas, Chile
The dramatic and renowned Lake Crossing awaits you today!
The breathtaking beauty of the southern Andes further unfolds as
you travel from Argentina to southern Chile on a series of lake
cruises. Marvel at the mountain peaks, cascading waterfalls, and
indigo-colored lakes. Your adventure ends in the quaint lakeside
village of Puerto Varas, known for its delicious seafood and
German cuisine. (B,D)
Day 7 — Puerto Varas, Punta Arenas, and Puerto Natales
Travel this morning to the city of Punta Arenas, located on
Chile's Strait of Magellan, the treacherous body of water at the
tip of South America named for explorer Ferdinand Magellan.
Punta Arenas was a main stop for sailors rounding Cape Horn as
they crossed into the Pacific until the Panama Canal was
constructed. Enjoy a panoramic tour of Punta Arenas before
journeying through the Patagonian wilderness to the city of
Puerto Natales. This sleepy Chilean town is the gateway to
Torres del Paine National Park and some of the world's most
incredible natural scenery. (B,D)
Day 8 — Torres del Paine National Park and Puerto Natales
Journey to the nearby Milodon Cave, which offers evidence of
human settlements that are nearly 12 thousand years old. Today,
view the encased figure of a milodon, a mysterious pre-historic
animal believed to have once lived in this area. Then travel
into the majestic Torres del Paine National Park and enjoy views
of the snow-capped mountain peaks, crystal-clear rivers, and
mirrored lakes. A scenic drive along the banks of lakes Figueroa
and Sarmiento will show you the towering heights that give this
national park its name. Afterward, return to Puerto Natales. (B,D)
Day 9 — Puerto Natales and El Calafate, Argentina
Admire stunning natural landscapes as you travel through the
heart of Patagonia today. Cross back into Argentina as you
approach El Calafate, gateway to the glaciers. Upon arrival,
enjoy some leisure time to explore this quaint village
characterized by rustic houses with sloping roofs that pierce
the bright blue sky. (B,D)
Day 10 — Perito Moreno Glacier and Lake Argentino
Travel along the beautiful Brazo Rico shoreline of Lake
Argentino en route to the majestic Perito Moreno Glacier. With a
wall of ice over 60 feet high, Perito Moreno is the only
continually advancing glacier in the world. Admire breathtaking
views of the massive glacier during a walk along its base and
watch for the dramatic moment when chunks of ice break off and
crash into the lake. (B,D)
Day 11 — Ushuaia
Depart El Calafate and journey to Ushuaia, "the world's
southern-most city" and capital of the province of Tierra del
Fuego. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to spend as
you please. Choose to relax in your hotel or explore the city,
which is framed by a spectacular backdrop of mountains, sea, and
woodlands. This evening experience a home-hosted dinner with a
local Fuegan family. (B,D)
Day 12 — Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego
Enter beautiful Tierra del Fuego National Park,
characterized by mountains, glaciers, and deep valleys laced
with rivers and lakes. Highlights of the day include visiting La
Roca, the idyllic wooded forests of the park, followed by a
spectacular sightseeing cruise of the Beagle Channel, home to
abundant populations of sea lions and albatross. This evening
you will be treated to traditional lamb barbecue, a regional
specialty. (B,D)
Day 13 — Ushuaia and Buenos Aires
Bid farewell to the tranquility of Patagonia and return to
lively Buenos Aires. Enjoy the balance of the day at leisure,
perhaps browsing the boutiques of Calle Florida, an expansive
pedestrian area. This evening, dine on typical Argentine fare
and experience the passion and artistry of an authentic tango
show. (B,D)
Day 14 — Buenos Aires
Depart Buenos Aires for the U.S.
Back to SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS - Menu Page
All information is property of Smithsonian
Journeys Travel Adventures. Certain restrictions apply. All
rates in U.S. dollars. Prices, savings offers, and other terms
subject to change without notice. Images, logos, photographs
etc. on this page is copyrighted by Smithsonian Journeys Travel
Adventures. All such copyright material is acknowledged. These
pages are not endorsed or supported by Smithsonian Journeys
Travel Adventures in any way. All information presented is based
on promotional material provided by Smithsonian Journeys Travel
Adventures. It is presumed to be accurate and is subject
to change without notice.
Call toll-free 1-877-306-5595
