Patagonia
Ultimate Wilderness
Patagonia Tours: A Journey into the Wild
Discovering Patagonia | In Summary
- Patagonia straddles two nations across roughly one million square kilometres — a combined territory larger than France and Spain combined — making it the largest temperate wilderness on earth, a scale that demands multi-country itinerary planning and often two to three weeks to explore meaningfully.
- The region’s best conditions for trekking, wildlife watching, and outdoor adventure fall within the southern hemisphere summer window of November through March, when extended daylight hours of up to 17 hours per day allow for full-day explorations and the wildlife — including nesting Andean condors and Magellanic penguins — is at its most active.
- Argentine Patagonia’s Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981, shelters the Perito Moreno Glacier — one of the world’s few advancing glaciers — alongside the soaring granite needle of Mount Fitz Roy above El Chaltén, offering a dramatically different wilderness experience to Chilean Torres del Paine across the border.
Patagonia is a place of unparalleled beauty, where the rhythm of nature dictates life and untouched wilderness beckons those who seek a deeper connection to the earth. Stretching across the southern reaches of Chile and Argentina, this remote region offers an intoxicating sense of exploration and solitude. For the discerning traveller, it is a land of boundless opportunities to immerse oneself in nature’s raw elegance while enjoying the comforts of thoughtfully designed luxury.
Hiking through Patagonia’s iconic landscapes—like the towering granite spires of Torres del Paine or the glacial-carved valleys of Los Glaciares National Park—is a transformative experience. Each step reveals a kaleidoscope of colours, from turquoise lakes to emerald forests and windswept grasslands. For those who prefer a different pace, horseback riding across vast estancias offers a chance to follow ancient trails once traversed by pioneers, guided by local gauchos who share their deep-rooted connection to the land.
The crystal-clear rivers of Patagonia are a paradise for fly fishing enthusiasts, teeming with trout and salmon that challenge even the most skilled anglers. Meanwhile, wildlife enthusiasts will find themselves enchanted by the region’s rich biodiversity, from elusive pumas to Andean condors soaring overhead.
Exclusive lodges like Awasi Patagonia and Explora Patagonia provide a seamless blend of sophistication and sustainability. Nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes, these retreats offer personalized adventures, gourmet cuisine crafted from local ingredients, and the perfect balance of comfort and remoteness. Here, the luxury lies not only in the amenities but in the profound connection to Patagonia’s soul-stirring wilderness.
You Will Love
- Riding with gauchos through the endless wilderness
- Fly fishing crystal-clear glacial rivers
- Trekking in remote Torres del Paine
- The warm hospitality of estancias & luxury lodges
- An unbridled connection to nature
- An intoxicating sense of pure escapism
Let us design your perfect itinerary.
Unforgettable experiences for tailormade Patagonia tours
Taste Chile’s mouth-watering vino
Taste Chile’s mouth-watering vino
Chile has become a powerhouse in the wine industry and now produces world class merlot, syrah, cabernet sauvignon, and carmenere, which is their signature. White wine drinkers will also enjoy Chile’s excellent sauvignon blanc an...
Admire the street art of Valparaiso
Admire the street art of Valparaiso
The seaside town of Valparaiso sprawls across a series of hillsides and is one of Chile’s most charismatic destinations. Known for its cool, bohemian atmosphere, it has long been home to some of South America’s best artists, w...
Helicopter to remote mountain lakes
Helicopter to remote mountain lakes
Travelling by helicopter allows you to access areas of the Andes that no one else can. You’ll soar over the mountains, stopping off in secluded locations for a glass of champagne and a dip in a hot spring. Before continuing your...
Unravel the mysterious past of Easter Island
Unravel the mysterious past of Easter Island
Nearly 4,000kms off Chile’s coast lies one of the most remote and remarkable places on earth – Easter Island. The island’s original Polynesian inhabitants carved vast stone statues, known as Moai. These impressive Moais coul...
Relax in a volcanic thermal spring
Relax in a volcanic thermal spring
Thanks to the seismically active Andes mountain range that forms the spine of the country, Chile contains more than 270 thermal springs. After a long hike or horse ride the perfect remedy to sooth your aching muscles is to have a ...
Places to stay for luxury holidays in Patagonia
Tierra Patagonia – Torres del Paine
Stay with stunning views of the Paine Massif
Tierra Patagonia, with only 40 guest rooms and suites, sits on a bluff where the vast pampas meet Lake Sarmiento. Tierra Patagonia brings cutting edge design, casual but exclusive accommodation, a superb range of outdoor excursions and legendary hospitality to one of Chile's most iconic destinations.... Read More
Explora Atacama – Chile
Great desert explorations
Explora Atacama offers casual elegance and an unforgettable experience in an otherworldly setting. Immersed in untouched nature and incredible scenery, the lodge offers over 40 explorations to discover the landscape, astronomy, geology, wildlife and ancient Aymara culture of the land.... Read More
Explora Torres del Paine – Chile
Remote & Raw
Explora Patagonia is located at the centre of the Torres del Paine National Park, the heart of Patagonia, on the shores of Lake Pehoe. Enjoy the most majestic of views right from the lodge itself, and enjoy over 35 half and full day explorations which there are to choose from. Disconnect and unwind in remote Patagonia at Explora.... Read More
Nayaro Alto Atacama – San Pedro
Sweeping views, tranquility and silence
Surrounded by salt mountains, crumbling ruins, and flanked by the winding San Pedro River, Alto Atacama has one of the most breathtaking settings in the world. The lodge is a stunning example of innovative and sustainable architecture, blending seamlessly into the surrounding red rock hillside.... Read More
And Beyond Vira Vira – Pucon, Northern Patagonia
Year-round gourmet adventure
Hotel Vira Vira is set on a working farm in a beautiful and unique location in the northern Lakes District, the mecca for adventure sports in Chile. Experience life on a working farm whilst indulging in exquisite paddock-to-plate dining and enjoying a variety of exciting activities immersed in the natural beauty of this stunning region.... Read More
Awasi Patagonia – Torres del Paine, Southern Patagonia
A wild retreat in the wilderness of Torres del Paine
Awasi Patagonia is situated inside a private reserve neighbouring the Torres del Paine National Park. From the lodge you can enjoy spectacular views of the Torres del Paine peaks and Lake Sarmiento. Awasi Patagonia is stylish, intimate and atmospheric, providing a wonderful home-from-home in stunning wilderness.... Read More
La Casona Matetic – near Valparaiso
Vineyard Bliss
Just 40km from the port city of Valparaiso lies La Casona, nestled amongst the certified-organic Matetic Vineyards. La Casona Matetic offers a boutique food and wine escape, the perfect alternative to a city stay, as a base in between day trips to Valparaiso, or as a location to head out on guided or self-guided walking trails.... Read More
Awasi Atacama – San Pedro de Atacama
An oasis of style and sophistication in the desert
Located in San Pedro de Atacama, Relais & Châteaux member Awasi Atacama is an intimate, rustic-luxe oasis in the world’s driest and most dramatic desert. Enjoy privately guided activities tailored to your personal interests and pace as you explore the geysers, salt flats and dunes of incredible region.... Read More
Tierra Atacama – San Pedro de Atacama
Desert Boutique
Tierra Atacama is a small contemporary hotel with views to the Licancabur volcano. The lodge offers plenty of ways to explore this fascinating desert area. Choose from hiking, biking, horse riding and more. Tierra Atacama is an excellent base for exploring this extraordinary terrain.... Read More
Refugia Chiloé – Chiloé, Northern Patagonia
A rich, spiritual culture
Refugia Chiloé is designed to blend with the natural landscape, taking in dramatic views of verdant pastures and dramatic coastline whilst evoking the island's vibrant and ancient culture. Carefully planned excursions include boating, horseback riding, biking and hiking, all designed to provide a well-rounded, immersive experience.... Read More
EcoCamp Patagonia – Torres del Paine
Active adventure in the wilderness
EcoCamp is situated in the very heart of Torres del Paine National Park and is an innovative leader in adventure trekking, with a 'leave no trace' ethos and with expert guides taking travellers through the wild Patagonian plains past glacial lakes, snow-capped mountains, fierce waterfalls and exquisite wildlife.... Read More
Las Torres Hotel – Torres del Paine
Estancia Patagonia
Hotel Las Torres has a privileged location at the foot of the Torres del Paine. Choose to horseback ride with experienced gauchos, trek various trails catering to all levels of experience, observe flora and fauna with specialized guides, or opt for the comfort of a vehicle excursion throughout the most attractive places in the park.... Read More
Remota Lodge – Puerto Natales
Year round adventures
Remota is located just outside of the town of Puerto Natales, Patagonia. Remota have designed their activity packages to suit a range of styles : soft, adventure and fly-fishing. Remota offers trips both inside and out of Torres del Paine National Park and is the perfect escape for those seeking adventure and more.... Read More
The Singular Patagonia – Puerto Natales
Heritage Classic
The rooms at The Singular Patagonia provide comfort and style with an amazing view of the Patagonian fjords. There are over 20 different Patagonia excursions available during your stay, with friendly, experienced and knowledgeable guides leading the way, you will get an in-depth, insider look at authentic Patagonia.... Read More
Clos Apalta Residence – Santa Cruz, Chilean Hills
Luxe amongst the vines
Clos Apalta Residence is nestled amongst the Chilean hills with extraordinary views of the Apalta vineyards and Colchagua Valley. Tour the local wineries, horse-back ride, hike, or perhaps relax by the infinity pool after a massage. Clos Apalta Winery is an idyllic spot for getting in touch with nature and enjoying a little luxury.... Read More
The Singular Lastarria – Santiago
Santiago Boutique Hotel
Blending seamlessly into the bohemian neighbourhood of Lastarria, The Singular Santiago combines the style of early 20th century buildings with neoclassical French architectural influences. The result is a striking new addition to the Santiago cityscape. This trendy retreat embraces artistic heritage while adding cutting-edge modernity.... Read More
Hotel Awa – Puerto Varas
Privileged lakeside location
Perched along the sparkling shoreline of Lake Llanquihue, just outside of popular Puerto Varas, Hotel Awa is a boutique, family-created retreat. Explore the great outdoors with a plethora of excursions ranging from fishing and birdwatching to volcano climbs and more. Hotel Awa is stylish, balancing in with its stunning natural environment.... Read More
A collection of journeys through Patagonia's breathtaking landscapes
Chile: Fire, Forests & Ice
Itinerary Inspiration | Atacama & Pucón Patagonia, Chile & Argentina
Head off on a spectacular journey through South America’s most startling landscapes as they shift from burnt orange to brilliant blue… the volcanoes, desert and flamingoes of the Atacama, the lush greenery and farm to table food of the Lake District, the vast and majestic mountainous features of the Torres del Paine and the culture, music, colours and more of the Paris of Latin America, Buenos Aires....Read More
Jakotango Patagonia Trail
Horse Riding | Estancia Gaucho Life
From the private ranches of Buenos Aires to the towering Patagonian Andes, experience an exclusive ride coupled with authentic accommodation and colonial farm leisure where the scenery is nothing short of spectacular and the gaucho culture will forever engrain istelf in your soul....Read More
Chile & Antarctica: Ends of the Earth
Itinerary Inspiration | Patagonia & Antarctica
This itinerary inspiration provides the framework for an adventure starting off in Santiago before heading South to Patagonia and to explore the Torres del Paine National Park, before a one-in-a-lifetime adventure on a fly-cruise expedition through Antarctica!...Read More
Chile & Argentina from Top to Toe
Itinerary Inspiration | Atacama Patagonia Torres del Paine
Spend just under three weeks exploring some of the best of Chile and Argentina, starting in the desert-scape of the Atacama in Chile, traversing the beautiful Argentine Lakes District and exploring on foot, horse, water or land, Patagonian Chile and its mountains, glaciers and alpine scenery with a finish in Santiago, the hub for the nation and start/end point of a journey for many Australians to South America.
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Argentina: Patagonia Cruise
Itinerary Inspiration | Chile & Argentina by Land & Sea
A multi-faceted itinerary to suit a range of tastes - the relaxed Chilean Lakes District with a river setting and activities such as kayaking, hiking and horse-trekking, along with farm-to-table fresh food, taking it up a notch to the breathtaking vistas of Patagonia with more opportunities to hike, bike and explore the vast outdoors, a once in a lifetime adventure to Antartica onboard the Australis, then finishing in the Paris of Latin America, Buenos Aires....Read More
Patagonia for Hikers
Itinerary Inspiration | Two Countries & Two Unreal Hikes
It goes without saying that the Torres del Paine National Park and Mt. Fitz Roy are 'meccas' for avid hikers in South America. On this Patagonia for Hikers journey, spend four nights in each region, with the opportunity to hike and explore both areas at a style, pace, length and duration of your choice, all while staying in comfortable and scenic accommodation....Read More
Argentina: Patagonia North to South
Itinerary inspiration | Off the beaten track exclusivity
Explore the lakes, mountains, rivers and glaciers of Argentina staying at premier owner operated boutique properties throughout the journey. Activities throughout include hiking in Los Glaciares National Park, horse-riding and taking part in farm activities such as sheep shearing or learning about gaucho life, fly-fishing or bird-watching....Read More
Patagonia: Glaciers to Iguazú Jungles
Itinerary Inspiration | Chile & Argentina
Argentina, Chile and Brazil are destinations which can be explored each on their own, time permitting. Mix them into a three week journey and incorporate the cities of Santiago and Buenos Aires, along with an exclusive stay in Chilean Patagonia, the opportunity to get up and close to glaciers in Argentina and to horse ride and stay on an estancia, along with ticking of the bucket list, a visit to Iguazú Falls, surrounded by lush jungle....Read More
Patagonia & Lakes Crossings to Iguazu
Itinerary Inspiration | Luxury Chile & Argentina
Just under three weeks duration, this itinerary allows the traveller to visit a number of destinations within Chile and Argentina, with a side-trip to Brazil to finish up Iguazu. Experience world-class accommodation, architecture, lakes, mountains, glaciers, culture, music, fine food and the thunder of the Falls....Read More
Patagonia & Chilean Fjords
Set Departure | Patagonia Cruising
In the Chilean Patagonia sail between massive blue-hued glaciers and the sharp peaks of the Andes mountains. This untamed terrain is home to fjords, channels, and islets with beaches teeming with marine wildlife, birds, and stunning natural landscapes best accessed by ship or Zodiac....Read More
Patagonia: Frequently Asked Questions
The prime season runs from November through March, when the southern hemisphere summer brings milder temperatures, extended daylight hours of up to 17 hours, and the most accessible trail conditions in Torres del Paine and Los Glaciares National Park. December and January offer the most stable weather, though high season also brings the most visitors. Shoulder months — November and March — balance good conditions with greater solitude. Winter travel (June to August) is possible at some properties but most lodges close and trekking access is severely limited.
Yes — Patagonia spans both countries, and many of our itineraries are designed to move fluidly between the two. Chilean Patagonia centres on Torres del Paine National Park and the fjord coast, while the Argentine side encompasses El Calafate, the Perito Moreno Glacier, and the hiking mecca of El Chaltén below Mount Fitz Roy. The two regions offer complementary — rather than interchangeable — experiences, and combining them typically requires a minimum of two weeks.
Patagonia supports a compelling array of wildlife despite its harsh conditions. Guanaco — the wild cousin of the llama — roam the open steppe in large herds, while the Andean condor, with a wingspan reaching three metres, soars above the mountain passes. Puma are present throughout Torres del Paine and, while elusive, dedicated guided outings from lodges such as Awasi Patagonia offer genuine sighting opportunities. Magellanic penguins colonise coastal areas, and the lakes and rivers hold brown and rainbow trout of exceptional size.
Most travellers fly from Sydney or Melbourne to Santiago, Chile (via Auckland, Los Angeles, or Dubai), with onward connections to Punta Arenas for Chilean Patagonia or to Buenos Aires and then Río Gallegos or Ushuaia for the Argentine side. Total travel time from Australia typically ranges from 24 to 30 hours. The Classic Safari Company coordinates all routing and can structure itineraries to minimise transit time and maximise time in the field.
Accommodation ranges from intimate design lodges to working estancias, each offering a distinct immersion in the landscape. Properties such as Explora Torres del Paine and Tierra Patagonia are architecturally striking retreats with full guiding programmes included; Awasi Patagonia provides a more exclusive, villa-style experience with dedicated private guides; and traditional estancias across Argentine Patagonia — including Tipiliuke in the north — offer gaucho culture, fly fishing, and farm-to-table hospitality in a working ranch setting.
Absolutely. While Patagonia has an international reputation as a hiking destination, the experience is highly adaptable. Guided vehicle excursions, horseback riding with gauchos, wildlife watching, and glacier cruises are all available and accessible to travellers of varied fitness levels. Properties such as Las Torres Hotel and Hotel Vira Vira in the Lakes District cater well to mixed-ability groups. The Classic Safari Company tailors every itinerary to the specific pace, interests, and physical comfort of each travelling party.
Patagonia: A Glossary of Terms
Torres del Paine — Chile’s most celebrated national park in Southern Patagonia, protecting the granite massif of the Paine Massif, turquoise lakes, and the iconic three towers that give the park its name; a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve and the centrepiece of most Chilean Patagonia itineraries.
Los Glaciares National Park — Argentina’s UNESCO World Heritage–listed wilderness in Santa Cruz Province, home to the advancing Perito Moreno Glacier and the granite spires of Mount Fitz Roy; the principal draw for travellers on the Argentine side of Patagonia.
Gaucho — the archetypal South American horseman of the Patagonian and Pampas steppe, whose culture of horsemanship, cattle herding, and open-fire cooking is integral to the identity of Argentine and Chilean rural life; a central element of authentic estancia experiences.
Estancia — a traditional South American cattle or sheep ranch, often spanning tens of thousands of hectares across the Patagonian steppe; many historic estancias now operate as boutique, high-end guesthouses offering riding, fly fishing, and an immersive window into gaucho life.
Perito Moreno Glacier — a 250-square-kilometre river of ice in Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina, and one of the world’s few advancing glaciers; famous for periodic dramatic calving events in which enormous ice faces collapse into Lago Argentino.
Andean Condor — the largest flying bird in the western hemisphere by wingspan, reaching up to three metres; a near-threatened species and iconic symbol of the Andes and Patagonian skies, frequently spotted soaring on thermal updrafts above mountain passes and cliff faces.
Guanaco — a wild camelid native to South America and one of Patagonia’s most visible large mammals, ranging across open steppe in herds of hundreds; a primary prey species of the puma and a defining sight of the Torres del Paine landscape.
Puma — South America’s largest felid and Patagonia’s apex predator, known elsewhere as mountain lion or cougar; increasingly a focus of dedicated wildlife-watching expeditions in Torres del Paine, where a growing, habituated population has made sightings more reliable.
Fly Fishing — a method of angling using weighted lines and artificial flies, pursued with particular fervour in Patagonia’s glacially fed rivers and lakes, which hold wild brown and rainbow trout of world-class size; a signature activity of northern Argentine estancias including Tipiliuke and Arroyo Verde.
Magellanic Penguin — a burrowing penguin species that colonises coastal Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego in large numbers during the breeding season (October to March); named for explorer Ferdinand Magellan and a highlight of any itinerary that extends to the Patagonian coast or Ushuaia.
An absolutely fantastic travel company - every one of the many trips they have organised for us over 22 years have been faultless and fabulous.
Judith & Roger Williams
Would do it all again and not change a moment. Best holiday ever!
The McGowan Tribe
It certainly was the best trip we have EVER had. The experiences were mind blowing. We want everyone we know to experience Africa - the animals, the people - magical.
Jo-anne & Dean Mifsud
The Classic Safari Company is the best I have dealt with. Extremely knowledgeable & professional, friendly, patient & understanding of first timers to Africa.
Annette Whiley
Classic Safari Company were brilliant - 10/10
Di & Kingsley Yates
Classic Safari is the place to go to for "top end" adventure travel.
Ron & Alison Guthrie
If you want the most sensational experience in Africa let Julia and the staff at Classic Safari Co plan it for you! Their knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm for their job means your every wish will be fulfilled.
Miriam & Joseph Harrison
Their experience and knowledge of Africa is evident and we couldn't have been happier with the total package. This has given us a taste for Africa - now we are ready for more.
Andrew & Pip Stevens
Classic Safari Company has done it again! A unique experience that ticked all the boxes - wildlife, culture and dining experience. A dream come true!
Ros Wheeler
Absolutely everything was first class & so well organised.
Simon & Jackie Adams
The trip of a lifetime, couldn't have dreamt of a better adventure if I tried.
Emma Jeffcoat
You can't improve on perfection. I had my best birthday and holiday with my family celebrating my 80th birthday in Africa. Everything that Julia organised was perfect and the whole trip was a highlight!
Buckingham Family
Everything was perfect! Advice and information on destinations and activities hit everything I had hoped to experience. I contacted the Classic Safari Company upon recommendation and have now, in turn, recommended to others.
Tim Bradley
Very knowledgeable and patient. Our trip was all that we hoped for. Wonderful!
Jane & Robert Happell
Thank you for making our trip to Africa so spectacular. The attention to detail really made it special. It really was the trip of a lifetime.
Paul Cozzi
An amazing experience - the best family holiday we have ever had. We were extremely impressed by the meticulous attention to our itinerary. I can't speak highly enough of all the elements of this exciting journey!
Sheryl & Robert Taylor
We loved it all. Our son wants to go back tomorrow. We would ALL go back again!
Laurence & Remi Cunningham
Classic Safari are the people who genuinely know other culture and offer incredible insight to perfectly meet your expectations.
Melanie McMillan & Iain Jones
The trip exceeded my expectations and was the best family holiday I have ever had. Our children simply loved it and now I know more about African wildlife than they do about our own farm animals.
Rowntree family
We are so happy we put our trust in CSC, we had an amazing adventure and would recommend them to anyone.
Kim & Brad Balance
Julia you did a fantastic job - everything was first class. Well organised, efficient and stress free. We all agreed it was the best holiday we've ever had. Cant wait to travel with CSC again.
Milford family
We wanted the opportunity to see as many wildlife parks as possible and the Classic Safari Company provided an action-packed itinerary that included six, with 11 tiger sightings and nine leopard. This was overlaid with an introduction to Jaisalmer, Jaipur and the 'real' India. Pench and Panna were the hidden gems of a really great trip, very well organised, seamless and enjoyable. As a solo traveller I felt incredibly safe at all times. I want to go back!
Mark Taylor
Exellent and wonderful, reaching way above expectations.
Elizabeth Mackintosh
Thank you for putting together the ancestral adventure of a lifetime. I cannot speak highly enough of the trip.
Jenny Kidd
