Compare Classic Patagonia Treks by Exodus Travels vs Discover South America: Chile & Argentina by Grand Circle Travel

Day 1 Start El Calafate; visit Perito Moreno Glacier

The adventure begins in El Calafate. Today we drive the short distance to visit Perito Moreno Glacier. One of the most famous geological sights in the world, the Perito Moreno Glacier is one of only a few glaciers that grows and shrinks with seasonal fluctuations. It calves into Lake Argentino and sometimes part of the lake becomes landlocked depending upon the position of the ice. Every so often, it is possible to see (and hear) huge lumps of ice break off and tumble into the lake before floating away as icebergs. As there is an early morning start tomorrow, we suggest sorting your luggage tonight and preparing a smaller bag you will carry throughout the next four days of trekking in Chile. We have an agreement with the hotel in El Calafate that means excess luggage can be left securely until your return – the tour leader provides further details and assistance. You need to carry everything you bring with you to Chile on the treks . Accommodation: Hosteria Tierra Tehuelche (or similar)

Day 2 Travel to Torres del Paine National Park; transfer to first refugio

We start early with a long but scenic journey, crossing the Andean border that starts out on the Argentine plateau and emerges in the stunning Chilean landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park.  Once we arrive at the Lago Amarga entrance to the park, we meet our local guide who joins us for the next four days to provide expert guidance and insight. From here, we are transferred to our first refugio. This afternoon, we can enjoy short treks around the area. Accommodation: Refugio Torre Central or Torre Norte

Day 3 First day of W Trek; hike to the Base of the Towers viewpoint

Today we embark on the iconic trek to the Base of the Towers of Paine, that sit on the far side of our glacial lake viewpoint, where we can look upon Torre Sur (9,350ft/2,850m), Torre Central (9,185ft/2,800m), Torre Norte (8,530ft/2,600m) and Cerro Nido de Cóndor. We descend back down the valley and return to our previous nights refuge to enjoy a hot meal and well-earned drink. Please note:  Non essential trek items can be stored in refugio lockers. Accommodation: Refugio Torre Central or Torre Norte

Day 4 Second day of W Trek; hike to Los Cuernos

We walk down the valley towards the shore of Nordenskjöld Lake and then follow the edge of the lake on a much flatter and easier terrain to reach Los Cuernos. This is considered by many to be one of the most charming sites in the whole park, a perfect spot to rest in our refuge for the night. Accommodation: Los Cuernos Refuge or Frances Domes Refuge

Day 5 Third day of W Trek; hike to Valle Frances and onto Paine Grande

Another long day of trekking lies ahead as we venture into the Valle Frances. The first two hours involve some ascents and descents with views of Nordenskjöld Lake accompanying us until we reach Campamento Italiano. Leave your backpack (unattended) at the campsite if you wish, enabling you to walk the next part of the trek empty handed (keep valuables with you). The slight ascent lasts for about 1hr 30min until French Glacier lookout, where we can observe an impressive hanging glacier and listen for the rumbling of small avalanches as great chunks of ice and snow fall off. The trail continues until Campamento Británico and onto another lookout point, Mirador Británico, but note that how far the group walks up into the valley is dependent upon weather conditions, timings, and the condition of the group – the decision is taken by the local guide who walks with us in the national park. We return back down along the valley to Campamento Italiano and continue our walk onwards past the shore of the smaller Lake Skottsberg and into the Pehoé sector of the park. We arrive in the late afternoon to the inviting and idyllic site of Paine Grande refugio and can spend the evening gazing upon the clear night skies or relaxing in the on-site bar. Occasionally, some groups may have full-service camping tonight instead of staying in the refugio dormitories – see accommodation section. Please note: The full trek distance of 15mi (24km) is only if we reach the very end of Valle Frances; often, we only go as far as one particular viewpoint due to the weather and/or group condition. The total walking distance for today therefore becomes 11mi (17km). Accommodation: Refugio Paine Grande or full-service camping

Day 6 Final day of W Trek; hike to Glacier Grey viewpoint; catamaran and bus transfer to El Calafate

We start early to see the final day of the W Trek highlights: the Grey Glacier. This is a round trip to a lookout over Lake Grey that ends back at Refugio Paine Grande, so we can leave our bags and just carry essentials with us. The trail goes along the western side of the Paine Massif with views to Lake Grey and various mountains. After about 1hr 30min, we reach the lookout point and enjoy views of the Grey Glacier in the distance. We return by the same route back to Pehoé Lake from where we take a catamaran across the lake to the Pudeto sector. A bus takes us from here on the short drive to the park entry point at Laguna Amarga. Here we board our transfer vehicle to Calafate (approximately five/six hours). After driving through beautiful scenery on our way out of the park (keep an eye out of the window for pumas!), we cross the border into Argentina and arrive late evening into El Calafate. Accommodation: Hosteria Tierra Tehuelche (or similar)

Day 7 Free day to take part in optional excursions in and around El Calafate

This is a free day to either rest or book optional tours in Calafate. We recommend the Perito Moreno Ice Trek or the half-day tour to Estancia Nibepo Aike, where you can enjoy a typical Patagonian barbecue and see how a typical Patagonian estancia works. Please ask your tour leader and they will help to arrange it. Accommodation: Hosteria Tierra Tehuelche (or similar)

Day 8 Transfer to El Chaltén; free afternoon

In the morning, we transfer approximately three hours to the small mountain town of El Chaltén, our base for walking in the Fitzroy region. After arriving, the rest of the day is free to relax. Alternatively, for those who wish, there are many short treks around town, which your tour leader can help to arrange. We spend the night in El Chaltén at a simple and friendly hosteria. Accommodation: Hosteria Don Atilio (or similar)

Day 9 To Los Glaciares National Park; trek in Fitzroy Massif up to Laguna de Los Tres

This morning, we start with a 30-minute bus journey on the edge of Los Glaciares National Park to our start point at El Pilar, from where we commence our trekking in the stunning Fitzroy region. We follow the trail leading to Poincenot Camp, along the way enjoying views of Piedras Blancas Glacier and Fitzroy if the weather conditions are clear. From Poincenot, we then continue to reach Laguna de los Tres, involving a steep ascent to reach a wonderfully scenic spot from which to relax and take photos of the Fitzroy Massif. We descend from the viewpoint and walk back down from the mountains to eventually reach the town of El Chaltén on foot. Accommodation: Hosteria Don Atilio (or similar)

Day 10 Trek to Torres Glacier and Cerro Torre viewpoint; return on foot to El Chaltén

Today we trek into a beautiful valley and head toward the stunning Torres Glacier viewpoint. If time permits, we might be able to continue to the Maestri Lookout at Laguna Torre (this 2.5mi/4km section can get very windy) before walking back to El Chaltén. Accommodation: Hosteria Don Atilio (or similar)

Day 11 Transfer to El Calafate; fly back home

After breakfast, we transfer by road back to El Calafate airport, where the trip ends. Alternatively, if you’d like the adventure to continue, speak to your sales representative about seeing two natural wonders: the magnificent curtain of cascades that is Iguazu Falls or the otherworldly landscapes in the northwest of Argentina on our Salta extension.

Day 1: Depart U.S.

Travel to South America as you fly overnight from the U.S. today.

Day 2: Arrive Santiago, Chile • Chilean family winery

Meals: Dinner

Accommodations: Crowne Plaza Santiago or similar

You will touch down in the Chilean capital this morning to begin your South America tour, where a Grand Circle representative will meet you and assist with the transfer to your hotel. While you wait to check into your room, take part in a guided orientation walk, giving you the lay of the land in your Santiago neighborhood.

Early this afternoon, meet your travel companions, including those who took our optional pre-trip extension to Peru: Machu Picchu, Cuzco & Lima, and your Program Director. You'll then enjoy a Welcome Briefing, during which you'll learn some more details of what to expect from your upcoming discoveries in South America. Then, depart for a nearby family-owned winery, where you'll enjoy a tour on one of Chile's most famous exports. Here, you'll also sit down with fellow travelers for a delicious Welcome Dinner.

Day 3: Santiago • City tour • Chilean history discussion

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Accommodations: Crowne Plaza Santiago or similar

This morning, embark upon a city tour of Santiago. Home to a third of Chile's 16 million people, Santiago rests at the confluence of the Mapocho and Maipu rivers, surrounded on all sides by Andean peaks. To be sure, it's a breathtaking setting for a capital that has witnessed a remarkable history—from settlement by conquistadores in 1541 to the Marxist, military, and finally, democratic governments of the 20th century.

This morning, pass through Providencia, a district of great tradition and strong commercial and social activity. Then begin your included city tour with a ride through the residential districts of Bellavista and Las Condes, where you will see beautiful homes and parks. As you continue, you'll see several historic monuments and buildings, including the Palacio de la Moneda, the current seat of the government. Stop for a stroll at the city's most important plaza, the Plaza de Armas, which has been the heart of Santiago since its origin in 1541. Ringing the plaza are many important buildings that are considered national monuments. Here you see the Correo Central (main post office), Iglesia Catedral (Cathedral Church), the Municipalidad de Santiago (City Hall), and the National Historic Museum. Nearby, you find the Mercado Central (Central Market), an elegant wrought-iron structure inaugurated in 1872 as the site of a National Exhibition. Now it is the city's central market, filled with colorful stalls and seafood eateries (called marisquerias). Here, you'll enjoy an included lunch.

Tonight, enjoy a discussion on Chilean history and the country's most controversial leaders: Allende and Pinochet.

Day 4: Santiago • Valparaiso tour • Graffiti Art of Valparaiso activity • Lunch in a local home

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Accommodations: Crowne Plaza Santiago or similar

Today, set off to the Chilean northwest on a full-day tour to Valparaiso. Valparaiso is an important Chilean port city (and a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site), where 17 hills tower over the "basin" district.

The city's distinctive features include meandering cobblestone streets and ancient ascensores—electric cable cars that climb into hillside neighborhoods and afford splendid sea views. You'll ride one of these ascensores up the hill for one of the many views of Valparaiso, then walk through the colorful streets, known for the colorful public art on the walls. Learn more about this cultural heritage, and make your own contribution to a work in progress, during an exclusive Graffiti Art of Valparaiso Discovery Series event.

Afterward, enjoy another exclusive Discovery Series event as you sit down for lunch with a local family before returning to your hotel.

Enjoy the evening and dinner at your leisure.

Day 5: Santiago • Puerto Varas • Angelmo Market visit • Mapuche discussion

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodations: Hotel Bellavista

After an early breakfast, transfer to the Santiago airport for your group's flight to Puerto Montt. You'll arrive in the early afternoon, then enjoy an exclusive Discovery Series visit to Angelmo Fish Market with your Program Director. Walk amidst the bustling stalls and browse some of the local seafood found in the nearby Chilean lakes. Perhaps sample the local curanto stew, a mixture of meat, seafood, and vegetable, and admire an array of dried shellfish.

Following your market visit, you’ll transfer to Puerto Varas to check into your hotel, and then gather for an exclusive Discovery Series discussion on the Mapuche people native to this area. While the Mapuche only make up about four percent of Chile's total population, their traditions surrounding the extended family and their agricultural customs have had widespread influences.

Dinner this evening is included at local restaurant.

Day 6: Puerto Varas • Chilean rodeo demonstration & lunch

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodations: Hotel Bellavista

This morning, learn more about the German immigrant heritage of Chile during a visit to a German family collection. Then enjoy a taste of everyday, family-centered Chilean life as a guest at a local horse-breeding ranch. During this exclusive Discovery Series event, you'll see how a farm family lives and works—and witness a Chilean rodeo demonstration as well. For lunch, enjoy a tasty homemade meal at the ranch in the company of these welcoming people before returning to your hotel.

This evening, you'll have a presentation to prepare you for tomorrow's travel through the Andes. The rest of the evening is yours to seek out dinner and spend as you please.

Day 7: Puerto Varas • Petrohue Falls • Andean lake crossing • Bariloche, Argentina

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Accommodations: Cacique Inacayal Hotel

Be prepared for an early start and a long—but very rewarding—day of travel today. First, depart for a morning tour of Petrohue Falls, where you can explore the lush setting surrounding the rapids. Petrohue Falls is located just a short distance downstream from Lake Todos los Santos, and the chute-like waterfall is supported by basaltic lava. Enjoy the views of Osorno Volcano in the distance.

Then, after a stop for an included lunch, you'll start your unforgettable journey across the border through the Andes from Chile into Argentina. Traveling in turn by bus, by boat, and back again, you’ll travel overland through picturesque mountain roads and also sail across the shimmering waters of the vast lakes of the Andes, taking your time to admire the scenery as you go.

Four buses, three boats, and a camera’s worth of memorable photos later, you’ll arrive in Bariloche in the early evening and check into your hotel. Dinner is on your own tonight.

Day 8: Bariloche • Panoramic tour & visit to Campanario Hill • Local brewery

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodations: Cacique Inacayal Hotel

Today Patagonia bids you bienvenidos as you awaken in Bariloche. Officially called San Carlos de Bariloche, this city is a curious amalgam of cultural influences. Its buildings recall the Austrian Tyrol in their design. Many of the ranches dotting the outlying Patagonian plains remain English-owned and run, worked by Chilean peons from over the border. (Film buffs: This is the territory where Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid made their real-life last stand.)

Bookended by stark granite peaks and mirrored in 40-mile-long Lake Nahuel Huapi, Bariloche is, quite literally, a breath of fresh air. Discover this on a panoramic tour this morning, which includes a visit to Campanario Hill. You'll go on to take in breathtaking views of the lake. Ride a chairlift to the top of Campanario Hill for spectacular views of the mountains (if the weather is clear). The lake is studded with fir-tree-covered islands. After that, you will enjoy a visit to a traditional brewery, where you'll have lunch and learn how this family prepares local beer.

This afternoon, enjoy time at your leisure. Dinner is included at your hotel tonight.

Day 9: Bariloche • Nazis in Patagonia discussion • Patagonian ranch visit • Optional Floating in the Limay River cruise  (optional tour)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodations: Cacique Inacayal Hotel

This morning, enjoy an exclusive Discovery Series discussion on the Nazi presence in Patagonia during World War II. Later, you'll depart for the Patagonian steppe for an exclusive Discovery Series event, where you'll be the guests on a Patagonian working ranch. You'll have the opportunity to tour the ranch and its grounds, learn about life in the windy Patagonian steppes, and enjoy a traditional lamb barbecue lunch.

The afternoon is free for your own discovery. Perhaps you will visit the Museo de la Patagonia, with its archaeological, historical and cultural displays, or enjoy a walk through the beautiful city center. Or you can join us for an optional Floating in the Limay River cruise, to enjoy the steppe landscape and fresh air while you float along by raft.

Dinner is on your own this evening.

Day 10: Bariloche • Buenos Aires • Home-Hosted Dinner

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodations: Panamericano Buenos Aires or similar

After breakfast, you'll have some time to bid Bariloche adios before transferring to the airport for your flight to Buenos Aires. You'll arrive in the late afternoon and continue to your hotel.

The most memorable part of your visit to this charming city may well be tonight’s dinner. Take a seat at the table of an Argentine family, share their evening meal, chat, learn about each other, and make new friends.

Prepare yourself for an evening seasoned with good conversation and fellowship.

Day 11: Buenos Aires Highlights tour • Tango lesson • Optional Tango Show & Dinner (Optional tour)

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodations: Panamericano Buenos Aires or similar

After breakfast, set off on an included half-day tour of Buenos Aires. You'll see the city's elegant mixture of Spanish Colonial architecture and several traditional European styles. Visit Avenida de Mayo, which runs into Plaza de Mayo, where many buildings important to Argentine history are centered. See the Casa Rosada (Government House); the Metropolitan Cathedral; and the Cabildo, the first City Hall built during Spanish rule.

Next, you'll visit La Boca, Buenos Aires' first merchant and fishing port. You'll have time to visit the famous Caminito, an outdoor museum and art show where painters offer their tango pictures, or stroll along the renovated waterfront promenade.

Your tour passes by the beautiful Colon Theater. Built in 1908, this is one of the world's most famous opera houses, and international stars vie to perform here as they do at Milan's La Scala and Vienna's State Opera House. Continue on to the final resting place of Eva "Evita" Peron, the Duarte tomb at the Recoleta Cemetery. The cemetery is in the Recoleta district, an area of elegant homes, fashionable restaurants and shops.

Lunch is on your own. The rest of your afternoon is at leisure for you to discover Buenos Aires.

This evening, join a tango lesson and learn the basic steps of Argentina’s fiery, passionate, signature dance. Before it was a dance, tango was a sound—a composite of rhythms and voices born out of the slums of Buenos Aires, where a diaspora of Europeans, Africans, and idle, discharged local soldiers congregated and sang their tales of solitude and struggle. From the music emerged the dance, and that unique and passionate mix came to encapsulate, in the opinions of many, the Argentine national character.

Interestingly though, the tango was not always the celebrated tradition it is now. Many Argentines viewed its humble origins and sensual stylings as unsavory at best—and vulgar at worst. The tango had to cross the Atlantic and become the red-hot rage of Europe before it found favor in its native land. And in recent years, it has undergone a revival, receiving an injection of modern energy from artists like Astor Piazzola and receiving broader national (and international) exposure through TV, radio, and touring tango troupes.

While your steps may not be as sure as the most seasoned tanguero, you’ll learn the basics during this special lesson—certainly enough to impress the folks back home.

Now that you’ve learned the basics of the tango, you have the opportunity to see how it’s really done. Tonight, watch some of the best tango dancers and musicians in Argentina perform at a sophisticated supper club during an optional tango show and dinner.

Day 12: Buenos Aires • Parana Delta ride • School visit • Argentina Today discussion Foundation Visit

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodations: Panamericano Buenos Aires or similar

Today, experience a change of pace from city life as you take a tour of the area where the Parana River empties into the Rio de la Plata on its way into the Atlantic, forming a huge delta. This exotic landscape is just half an hour from the city but seems a million miles away. Traditional houses on pilotes (stilts) are surrounded by lush subtropical vegetation, and are built on islands that are separated by a twisting maze of waterways.

Enjoy a relaxing boat ride in this scenic area, which is one of Latin America's most amazing wetland environments. You'll sail through the many islands that populate the rivers of the delta, and take in the lush, subtropical scenery and plant life. Then, enjoy an included lunch, followed by a visit to a local school (when in session) supported in part by Grand Circle Foundation, where you'll have the opportunity to get to know students and teachers there.

Later, after returning to your hotel, you will attend an exclusive Discovery Series discussion on Argentina Today, highlighting the current state of Argentina's economy and political scene.

Then toast your adventures and companions from your South American tour at tonight's Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant.

Please note: From December through early March, the school visit will be unavailable due to summer holidays.

Day 13: Buenos Aires

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel together, enjoy a morning at leisure to explore Buenos Aires before lunch on your own. Tonight, fly back to the U.S. or continue on our Brazil's Iguassu Falls & Rio de Janeiro post-trip extension.