The highlights of southern Argentina: Patagonia’s wilderness, glaciers & more

At WeDesignTrips local experts from tour operators help you plan your individual Argentina trip without obligation.

The north of Argentina trumps with Buenos Aires, waterfalls& Deserts. But also the south of the 3.700 kilometers of land in South America has a lot to offer.

What you should not miss, our experts have compiled in this article.

Perito Moreno Glacier

Perrito Moreno Glacier, Argentina

Perrito Moreno Glacier, Argentina

It is one of the largest glaciers in South America – the Perito Moreno Glacier is up to 2.950 meters high and stretches over 30 kilometers.

You can explore the glacier on foot or by boat. Particularly pleasing is the fact that the glacier, in contrast to others, still continues to grow. Why this glacier is growing in contrast to the global trend is still unclear. It is believed that winds& the geological form responsible for it.

Due to the growth, the glacier regularly bumps into the opposite Magellan Peninsula and then collapses impressively.

We have summarized a few tips from our experts for you:

  • From the water, the glacier is up to 60 meters high – be sure to observe it from a boat.
  • Definitely take a boat/bus tour in the afternoon – there are significantly fewer other travelers here.
  • If you listen carefully, you can hear how the ice breaks and the glacier grows steadily.

Did you know that.
The Perito Moreno Glacier used to be called Bismarck. Because in the year 1899 the discovered glacier was named in such a way by a German geologist and until 1917 usual.

The Valdes Peninsula

Penguin on the Valdes Peninsula, Argentina

Penguin on the Valdes Peninsula, Argentina

In the Argentine province of Chubut lies the Valdes Peninsula, one of the most& most popular national parks in Patagonia.

Except for a small town called Puerto Piramides, the peninsula has hardly any human inhabitants. But this place offers a wide range of animals – especially many marine mammals are found here. Sea lions cavort in the water, while behind them you can see whales, dolphins& Orcas sighting.

The national park is also known for its Magellanic penguins. We have listed our top 5 tips on the Valdes Peninsula here:

  1. Isla de los Pajaros: a bird island that can be observed from the water
  2. Estancia San Lorenzo: A sheep farm with accommodations and a very large penguin colony
  3. Caleta Valdes: A large bay with numerous sea lions& penguins
  4. Whale viewing tour: In spring/early summer the whales raise their young in the bay off Puerto Piramides
  5. Mountain bike tour: The peninsula is great to experience by bike.

Puerto Madryn

Whale off the coast of Puerto Madryn, Argentina

Whale off the coast of Puerto Madryn, Argentina

Location

South of the Valdes Peninsula

Residents

Climate

Many sunny days& Warm ocean currents

Known as.

Capital of the divers
Sunken ships, a steep coast with numerous sandbanks& ideal conditions – what more could a diver's heart desire??

Culinary Tip

Be sure to try the Patagonian lamb

Argentina

Duration ca. 2 minutes

Tierra del Fuego – Province of Tierra del Fuego

Tierra Del Fuego, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina

Tierra Del Fuego, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina

In the very south of Argentina and close to Antarctica hides the most southern highlight of Argentina – the province of Tierra del Fuego.

The way there you take the Ruta Nacional 3 in Argentina – until it finally comes to an end. Because here the roads of South America end, here there is not much more than nature& unbelievable vastness – welcome to the end of the world.

There is both a Chilean and an Argentine part here since 1881 and both are recommended because there is so much to experience here:

  • Experience a Catamaran Trip with magnificent views of the mountains, sea lions& Penguins
  • In winter you can experience winter sports at its best in Cerro Castor – including huskey sledding
  • Hike on different day trips through Tierra del Fuego National Park

Ushuaia: The southernmost city of Argentina

Directly at the Beagle Channel lies the southernmost city of Argentina Ushuaia. The city has been fighting for years with the Chilean city of Puerto Williams for the title" the southernmost city in the world".

Here we recommend warm clothes – because over the city often hangs a low and so the temperatures rarely reach over 20 degrees. In addition, there are rapid changes in the weather and so it can be that there is up to 20 degrees temperature change in one day.

As a starting point for Antarctic expeditions and with its proximity to the National Park of Tierra del Fuego, this is a popular place for travelers. Numerous hikes can be made from here. One of the most popular is the tour to the 1.300 meters high Glaciar Martial – a glacier.

In the winter months, the city is especially popular with winter sports enthusiasts. Here you can enjoy the sea view from the ski slope, go cross-country skiing or experience dog sledding tours in Las Cotorras.