100% customisable travel idea

Argentina & Chile Patagonia, great glaciers and Australis cruise

Argentina - Chile - Buenos Aires - Patagonia - Tierra del Fuego - Cape Horn - Santiago

On the borders of Argentina and Chile

From $9100 to $13500 per person for 18 days Price depends on departure city, season, accomodation types and selected activities

Itinerary highlights

  • Explore South America: cruise on the Stella Australis, see millennia-old glaciers, visit capitals at the beginning and end
  • Road trip through the great outdoors of Patagonia; your accommodations in exceptional locations
  • Buenos Aires and Santiago in private, picnic at Perito Moreno, experience the gaucho lifestyle - it’s all planned.
  • Carbon absorption, on-site Concierges: the extra Voyageurs touch
The least we can say is that Argentina and Chile have more than one trick up their sleeves. The two countries stretch for nearly 3,700 and 4,300 km (2,300 and 2,670 miles) from north to south, respectively, and offer a variety of colourful landscapes: pink deserts, black and white mountains, pure green vineyards, golden beaches, russet pampas, blue glaciers… Not to mention their picturesque villages and vibrant cities. They also have fascinating personalities, with strong characters, although different on either side of the Andes mountains. Yet in Chilean and Argentine Patagonia, you find that same moving humility, characteristic of those who live alongside nature every day. Nature is at the heart of your journey, which takes you from the Argentine capital to the Chilean capital, passing through the far southern reaches and straddling two countries. First stop Buenos Aires as an appetiser - something to be savoured without moderation and in every possible way, especially by following in the footsteps of an expatriate who gives you an insight into the city through the lens of their own life, tastes and experiences. The journey continues in Argentine Patagonia with the legendary town of El Calafate, the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park. Argentino Lake stretches up to it in all its vastness; you can see it, the most serene one, the ice giant that overwhelms us with its splendour and cold: Perito Moreno, the prince of glaciers. It acknowledges you with its silence. Ushuaia marks the start of the cruise. Boarding the Stella Australis means surrendering your soul to the beauty of the far south, saying yes to a journey from which you return changed - both richer and humbler. This cruise to the ends of the earth is without equal; it is difficult to put into words because experiencing it is so moving. It takes you into Chilean territory, towards what may be the most beautiful part of the south: a maze of channels winding through the heart of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago; extraordinary glaciers in an incredible white-blue, their cracking sounds seeming to come from the depths of the earth; wild islands crowned with ancient vegetation, where the spirit of native peoples still resonates; Cape Horn, the end of the earth, a breathtakingly beautiful continental extreme. Farewells are heartbreaking, but new wonders are already taking shape. On the roads of Patagonia, this time on the Chilean side, we head towards the Torres del Paine National Park, with its three giants that tower over the region. Here you discover scenery that is pure beauty, with turquoise lakes surrounded by grey rocks streaked with snow. A taste of eternity that can also be found, in other colours, along the steppes of a century-old estancia, and in the wide gaze of a gaucho with a weather-beaten face. Your journey comes to an end in Santiago. The Chilean capital reveals an incredible energy, that of a city with character, dotted with buildings that, in some cases, are reminiscent of Europe and, in others, that identify it as a global village. In the bars, life is a celebration, the night always young and infused with pisco.

Your journey

This trip is unforgettable, unique - perhaps even the journey of a lifetime. It is therefore well organised, carefully prepared to ensure everything runs smoothly and enjoyably, both in Argentina or Chile. Some wonderful experiences are already on your agenda: a stroll through Buenos Aires with an expatriate guide, another in Santiago through the lens of the events of 1973, a local-style picnic opposite the Perito Moreno, and a typical “asado” lunch at an estancia. Your accommodations are in line with the trip: charm, beautiful views, privileged locations; not to mention your cosy cabin with a view aboard the Stella Australis. Your travel arrangements are simple and seamless thanks to private transfers and two rental cars in Patagonia. Of course, when travelling, anything can happen: a sudden desire, an unexpected last-minute change. You therefore have the contact details for our Concierges in both countries, who will be happy to assist you.
Patagonie - Argentine © Nuria Val & Coke Bartrina
Patagonie - Argentine © Nuria Val & Coke Bartrina
Perito Moreno - Patagonie - Argentine © Nuria Val & Coke Bartrina
Perito Moreno - Patagonie - Argentine © Nuria Val & Coke Bartrina
Glacier Perito Moreno - Argentine © Kevin Faingnaert
Glacier Perito Moreno - Argentine © Kevin Faingnaert
Ushuaia - Argentine © All rights reserved
Ushuaia - Argentine © All rights reserved
Cruceros Australis - Chili © Cruceros Australis
Cruceros Australis - Chili © Cruceros Australis
Ushuaia - Argentine © All rights reserved
Ushuaia - Argentine © All rights reserved
Parc national Torres del Paine - Patagonie - Argentine © Alix Pardo
Parc national Torres del Paine - Patagonie - Argentine © Alix Pardo
Ushuaia - Argentine © All rights reserved
Ushuaia - Argentine © All rights reserved
Glacier Alley - Chili © Australis
Glacier Alley - Chili © Australis
Laguna Amarga - Parc national Torres del Paine - Patagonie - Chili © Alix Pardo
Laguna Amarga - Parc national Torres del Paine - Patagonie - Chili © Alix Pardo
Buenos Aires - Argentine © lucy laucht
Buenos Aires - Argentine © lucy laucht
Buenos Aires - Argentine © Kevin Faingnaert
Buenos Aires - Argentine © Kevin Faingnaert
Marché de San Telmo - Buenos Aires - Argentine © Kevin Faingnaert
Marché de San Telmo - Buenos Aires - Argentine © Kevin Faingnaert
Parc national Torres del Paine - Patagonie - Argentine © Alix Pardo
Parc national Torres del Paine - Patagonie - Argentine © Alix Pardo
Chili © Nuria Val & Coke Bartrina
Chili © Nuria Val & Coke Bartrina
Patagonie - Argentine © Nuria Val & Coke Bartrina
Patagonie - Argentine © Nuria Val & Coke Bartrina

Itinerary

100% customisable for you

Night on board, arrival the next day.

On arrival, private transfer to your hotel. A two-night stay in the historic San Telmo district. The hotel is organised around the Pasaje Belgrano, a former covered shopping arcade that is part of the capital’s history. The establishment has preserved the best of its heritage from its historic architecture - high ceilings, parquet floors, columns - combined with contemporary Argentine art. Paintings, sculptures and even a mural of Carlos Gardel, the local tango hero, are on the rooftop terrace. This spot is also perfect at the end of the day for relaxing with a drink or a book, far removed from the city bustle. At the restaurant, they serve a lively fusion cuisine that unites Argentine, Peruvian and Japanese dishes on the same menu.

On your itinerary - Discovering Buenos Aires in the footsteps of a French expat who has lived there for several years. You set off on an impromptu stroll with a Latin America enthusiast and a true connoisseur of the Porteña capital. No obligations, just improvisation, for this experience where helpful advice, secret addresses, cultural anecdotes, and insider advice are shared to help you experience the city like a local.
Things to see and do - Hunt for and buy unique souvenirs at the San Telmo Fair, on Sundays - cross the impressively wide Avenida 9 de Julio in two (or three) stages; savour ultra-tender grilled meat while dining at a social parrilla; compare the Haussmann-style buildings in the chic Recoleta district to those in Paris; improvise a tasting of Argentine wines; feast your eyes at the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes; enjoy the Porteña night in the trendy Palermo district.
Optional - Dinner at a traditional milonga.

Private transfer to the airport and flight to an essential destination in Argentine Patagonia: El Calafate. Pick up your rental car and drive to your hotel - a charming little place surrounded by nature - where you settle in for three nights. From the large picture window in the cosy lounge to the hot tub, you’re offered a superb view, especially of Lake Argentino. Faced with such a landscape, there is no room for distraction: the interior has a mountain chalet feel - ever-present wood, exposed stone, fireplaces - warm and comforting; a haven at the edge of the world.

Not to be missed - El Calafate is a small town with picturesque wooden houses, where visitors often stop over between two explorations. This is because the city is, first and foremost, the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park, with its turquoise lakes and snow-capped peaks. You pick up your rental car and head towards one of Patagonia’s gems and the emblem of Los Glaciares: the famous Perito Moreno. It can be explored freely and at each person’s own pace. On departure from El Calafate, you follow the shore of Lake Argentino, then pass the Magellan Peninsula and the Rico Branch. Once inside the national park, you set off on foot to explore the various walkways and lookout points, each bringing you closer to the Holy Grail: the best view of the Perito Moreno, and a photo of a huge slab of ice crashing into the icy water. This massive giant, up to 170 metres (558 feet) thick in places, seems to be posing just for us. Along the way, some of the park’s residents are harder to spot: Magellanic fox, Patagonian hare, guanaco, southern Andean deer, perch, to name but a few
Already on your itinerary - a typically Argentine picnic, known as a picada: cold meats, cheeses, bread and, of course, Malbec. To be enjoyed facing the Perito Moreno
. Optional - A horseback ride around Lake Argentino; a cruise on the lake followed by a crossing of the Pampas by 4x4.

Experience it - Explore the Los Glaciares National Park at your own pace. Inside the park, Lake Roca forms the southern arm of Argentino Lake. The trail leading there is worth the detour alone, surrounded by a setting of majestic peaks and forests of lengas and ñires. The area is ideal for various trails hiking or on horseback, as well as birdwatching - condors, Darwin’s rhea or the oystercatcher. The more adventurous can set out to conquer Cerro Cristal, a 1,286-metre (4,219-foot) peak that, on a clear day, offers breathtaking views of Perito Moreno and Torres del Paine.
On your itinerary: an asado at a traditional estancia. A traditional estancia nestled in the heart of Los Glaciares National Park will be awaiting your arrival. In the background, the Cordón Cristal, lakes, and steppes where horses gallop come into view. In this majestic setting, you are invited to share an asado, Argentina’s iconic dish. On the grill of this friendly barbecue - raised to an art form by some - you’ll find beef, of course, roasted lamb, and the traditional black pudding and chorizo (which is not spicy). And in such surroundings, how could you resist the pleasure of a digestive stroll.

Return the car at the airport, then fly to Ushuaia. On arrival, a private transfer takes you to one of Ushuaia’s most scenic accommodation venues, where you settle in for the night. Set on the banks of the Beagle Channel, while your hotel has the charm of a rustic chalet, the comfort of the rooms, the spa and the semi-open pool are a far cry from the rustic feel of mountain lodges. In an elegant setting, you enjoy a magnificent view of the canal from the lounge-veranda, which opens onto the natural landscape - the true star of these remote regions.

The big day has arrived: a private transfer takes you to the port, where you board the Stella Australis for a unique experience at the edge of the world. This vessel is especially well-suited for the complex manoeuvres needed to navigate the region’s canals and fjords. Its 100 cabins can accommodate 210 passengers - you settle into yours, comfortable and spacious. Simplicity is key here; all the beauty is on the outside, on the other side of the large window that treats you to unique views of the passing landscapes. However, there is no question of cutting back on passenger comfort. On board, several cosy lounges arranged on different decks invite you to relax while taking in the view or attending a talk. At the very top, an outdoor deck lets you enjoy the fresh air and take in the breathtaking scenes that unfold with each nautical mile.

This one-of-a-kind cruise sails along the southern archipelago of Tierra del Fuego, which straddles the border between Chile and Argentina. After leaving Ushuaia, you travel along the Beagle Channel, then the Strait of Magellan. See you later, Argentina! On this second day of sailing, the ship makes its way through the Murray Channel, which separates the Chilean islands of Hoste and Navarino, then enters Nassau Bay to reach Cape Horn National Park. You officially find yourself at the southernmost point of the American continent, and it’s breathtakingly beautiful. If the weather allows, a stopover is planned to experience these extreme landscapes up close - supremely isolated and battered by winds. Heading north again - there is not really any other way - you stop at Wulaia Bay. The Yahgans, a native people, once lived here. They travelled through the channels in canoes made of lenga bark - an endemic white beech. They alone fill a whole page in Tierra del Fuego’s history book. On their lands, you climb through the trees of the Patagonian forests - robles, canelos, tree ferns and the famous lengas. At the top: an unrivalled view over the bay and the endless southern horizon.

Your third day at sea marks the start of the icy lands. In the morning, the Ventus sails along the northeast arm of the Beagle Channel to reach Pia Fjord. Admiring the glacier that gave its name to the area is something you have to earn. It reveals all its beauty only after a hike up towards its peaks. Gigantic, it rises in the mountain peaks and then seems to flow into the sea. The afternoon is dedicated to Garibaldi Fjord,where you hike through nature to a glacial waterfall.

The day begins in Cockburn Channel, which gives access to De Agostini Fjord. There, you come face to face with the majestic glaciers that flow down from the heart of the Darwin Range. Scheduled: a zodiac excursion to reach the shore at exhilarating speed, then a hike around a lagoon formed by the melting of the Aguila Glacier. The rest of the day is devoted to Condor Glacier: another zodiac excursion - be warned, this is thoroughly addictive - for a special encounter with this giant of ice.

Last day aboard the Ventus, where time flows at a unique pace - that of glaciers, fjords and channels winding through the islands of Tierra del Fuego. Depending on the season and weather conditions, a final stop is planned on Magdalena Island, home to an impressive colony of Magellanic penguins - small, endearing creatures with a clumsy walk - or on Marta Island, home to equally enchanting South American sea lions. Around midday, arrival in Punta Arenas: the end of an unforgettable parenthesis… but not the end of your journey! Private transfer to the pick-up location for your rental car, then drive to Puerto Natales. Settle in for the night a little outside of the city, in a scenic, natural setting. The accommodation venue stands out for its stunning views of Ultima Esperanza Bay and its bold architecture - a semi-buried structure designed to blend in with and respect the environment, while also offering protection from the wind. Wood, lime, slate, concrete, sheepskins: a slightly raw yet very successful design that gives pride of place to local materials. The cherry on the top: all rooms have large windows overlooking the bay.

Head north and drive to Torres del Paine National Park (1 hour and 30 minutes). We quickly leave the shores of the Ultima Esperanza Sound and venture into magnificent, remote landscapes at the end of the world. Very quickly, the three iconic peaks of the “torres” stand out in the distance. Settle in for three nights in the very heart of Torres del Paine National Park. Your lodge stands with its contemporary, clean lines along the banks of the Serrano River. In a simple yet warm setting reminiscent of a mountain chalet, you can enjoy continual visual connection with nature through large picture windows.

Designated a UNESCO biosphere reserve, the vast Torres del Paine National Park unfolds before us with its breathtaking landscapes and unique ecosystem. National Geographic ranked it fifth among the most beautiful places on the planet, and you soon see why. Endless deep blue lakes, lofty peaks streaked with snow, and majestic glaciers. Your rental car allows you to explore the park freely - entrance fees are included. The trails take you to the Sarmiento, Pehoé, Grey, Toro and Nordenskjöld Lakes. In the distance, the Cuernos (horns) del Paine seem to watch over the beauty of this unspoiled landscape. To get a closer look, scramble down to the shore of Lake Pehoé or up to the Nordernskjöld viewpoint. Not hiking in these places would be a sacrilege. Numerous trails of varying difficulty and length crisscross the landscapes. You can take the trail that leads to the Grey Lake viewpoint - along the way, you cross the forest and the Avutardas River via a footbridge - or another trail that goes to the Salto Grande waterfall.
Optional: a horseback ride in the Patagonian pampas, or a cruise on Grey Lake followed by a hike on the glacier.

Drive to Punta Arenas, return the rental car at the airport, then fly to Santiago. On arrival, take a private transfer and settle in for the night at centrally located accommodation. The facade is contemporary, as is the entire place, from the lobby to the rooms, which are understated and comfortable. A lovely swimming pool lets you unwind after a day of travel. In the evening, enjoy a drink on the terrace before heading out to dine at one of the many restaurants in the capital.
Optional - Santiago by night, following in the footsteps of a local.

Don’t be misled by the sometimes austere look of downtown Santiago. The atmosphere here takes a different turn, just as the people push away a painful past with plenty of celebration and vibrancy.
On your itinerary: 1973 Santiago is still very much present in the streets, in graffiti and in many works referencing Salvador Allende, the socialist president overthrown by dictator Augusto Pinochet. Accompanied by a private guide, you delve into the profound and moving history of the events that triggered the coup d’état of 11 September 1973, retracing the day’s events in chronological order. Along the way, you discover, among other sites, the Plaza de Armas, the former National Congress, Espacio M, the Leonardo Henrichsen commemorative plaque, the La Moneda Cultural Centre, the Plaza de la Constitución, Morandé 80, the Bulnes Building, and finally Londres 38 - emblematic places from this period. A leap into history!
In the afternoon, a private transfer to the airport and return flight. Night on board, arrival the next morning.

À la carte

This suggested itinerary can be customisable down to the smallest detail, including duration, stops and content. An à la carte menu of experiences is also available to create a journey that reflects who you are.

Dinner at a traditional “milonga”

The milonga is THE social venue associated with tango: people gather there to chat over a drink, put the world to rights, and above all to dance! Head to a traditional milonga in the Barracas district. As the bandoneon plays its moving notes, you see the bodies come alive - languid silhouettes of all ages.

Cruise on Argentino Lake and Cross the pampa by 4x4

You board at the port of Punta Bandera, from where you travel by boat to Estancia Cristina. You cruise peacefully, captivated by the calm of the lake and its glaciers. Upon arriving at the estancia, you’ll be keen to discover the history of the place and the daily life of the gauchos of Patagonia. Cross the endless steppes in a 4x4, heading towards the Hielo Continental refuge and the Upsala viewpoint. The view is breathtaking: Lake Guillermo, the Upsala glacier and the Andes mountain range form a majestic trio. Return by 4x4 to the estancia, then by boat to the departure port.

Argentino Lake on horseback

In the saddle, with your body swaying to the rhythm of the horse’s gait, you feel a gentle sense of becoming one with nature. But even the sturdiest horse and gaucho seem insignificant compared to the majesty of nature here: sparkling glaciers and snow-capped peaks, endless lake and wind-swept steppes… You have to admit defeat.
Optional: With a private guide and equipment.

Cruise on Grey Lake and walk on the glacier

Cruise on Grey Lake, scattered with icebergs, and make landfall on Grey Beach. From this beach, where the waiting time is about 4 hours (you can take a 30-minute walk to a suspension bridge that offers very beautiful views), you depart in an inflatable boat to the area around Nunatak Island, followed by a 1-hour walk to get closer to the glacier. It is now time to gear up with an ice axe, crampons and harness to begin the walk of about 2 hours and 30 minutes on the Grey Glacier. You can’t help but be impressed by the immensity of this landscape.
Optional - Level: moderate.

Santiago by night with a local

An expatriate in Santiago takes you on a night-time stroll through the capital, revealing another side of this vibrant city. From their favourite restaurants to the bars they frequent, you chat about daily life, Latin American culture, and plan the rest of the evening together.
Optional private guide.

Why visit Argentina with Voyageurs du monde?

Every day, our travel specialists craft bespoke experiences shaped around each traveller's profile, desires and budget. These passionate experts design experiences delivered on the ground by a local network of Concierges and trusted contacts. These fully customisable, made-to-measure trips are complemented by a wide range of high-end services (lounges, 24/7 assistance, travel booklet, app, Wi-Fi, restaurant booking, etc.)

Let us create your trip

A few of the advantages of travelling with us to Argentina

  • Globally unique concierge service
  • Gourmet Voyageurs
  • Adjust your trip while travelling
  • 24-hour assistance
  • CO2 absorption

Why visit Chile with Voyageurs du monde?

Every day, our travel specialists craft bespoke experiences shaped around each traveller's profile, desires and budget. These passionate experts design experiences delivered on the ground by a local network of Concierges and trusted contacts. These fully customisable, made-to-measure trips are complemented by a wide range of high-end services (lounges, 24/7 assistance, travel booklet, app, Wi-Fi, restaurant booking, etc.)

Let us create your trip

A few of the advantages of travelling with us to Chile

  • Globally unique concierge service
  • Wi-Fi: 1 GB/day included
  • Gourmet Voyageurs
  • Adjust your trip while travelling
  • 24-hour assistance
  • CO2 absorption

Estimated budget

Price depends on departure city, season, accomodation types and selected activities

The estimated budget for this trip is $9,100 to $13,500 per person.

A fixed price is rarely applicable to a bespoke journey. The final cost depends on various factors, such as the level of service, travel dates, and booking lead times. The only definitive price will be the one provided in your personalized proposal.

The average price for this trip is $11,800 per person

The cruise can also be taken in the opposite direction (Punta Arenas-Ushuaia), and the entire itinerary can be reversed, taking into account the scheduled departure dates of the Stella Australis.

Included in this suggestion

  • International flight with a scheduled airline
  • Flights from Buenos Aires to El Calafate, El Calafate to Ushuaia, and Punta Arenas to Santiago on scheduled airlines.
  • Airport taxes and fuel surcharges
  • Carbon absorption contribution for your trip's CO2 emissions through reforestation projects (via our Philippe Romero Insolite Bâtisseur Foundation)
  • Private transfers as mentioned in the travel itinerary
  • Car rental for three days in El Calafate and four days when leaving Punta Arenas.
  • Two nights in Buenos Aires, in a double room with breakfast
  • Three nights in El Calafate, in a double room with breakfast
  • One night in Ushuaia, in a double room with breakfast
  • Four nights aboard the Stella Australis, in a double cabin with full board
  • One night in Puerto Natales, in a double room with breakfast
  • Three nights in Torres del Paine National Park, in a double room with breakfast
  • One night in Santiago, in a double room with breakfast
  • Explore Buenos Aires with a private local guide
  • “Picada” picnic in Los Glaciares National Park
  • Typical “asado” lunch at an estancia
  • Cruise aboard the Stella Australis - activities and talks included
  • Entry fees for Torres del Paine National Park
  • Tour of Santiago following the events of 1973, with a private guide.
  • Our on-site Concierge services
  • A local mobile phone
  • Free Wi-Fi during your trip to Chile: an international mini router provided before departure, allowing you to connect up to five devices simultaneously.
  • A travel booklet collating a wealth of useful information (your daily itinerary, your hotel details, a selection of customised and geolocated recommendations, etc.).
  • Our recommendations and reservations at selected restaurants
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