This region of the southern part of the continent is shared by Chile and Argentina. Famous for its mind blowing natural beauty and a Mecca for the adventurous traveller, with the opportunity for you to wear out your hiking boots, trot around on horseback or perhaps the rush of a white water rafting journey, or a cruise through the majestic and awe inspiring Fjords. Patagonia is a hub for wildlife by land, sky and sea, and the natural beauty of Patagonia will leave you dumbstruck with emotion which is what a great travel experience should do.
Experiences not to be missed in this southern most part of Patagonia would have to be…
Small ship expedition cruising in Patagonia
M/V Stella Australis:
Sailing between Ushuaia (Argentina) and Punta Arenas (Chile) on the expedition cruise ship M/V Stella Australis will take you on a journey to discover the grandeur of Patagonia’s unique landscapes and wildlife, including whales, dolphins, penguins, condors and elephant seals, while on board a ship ideally suited for exploring the waters around Tierra del Fuego – a remote and rugged archipelago, across the Magellan Strait from mainland Patagonia.
* Watch out for Ventus Australis which is the new state-of-the-art ship currently being built for Australis for the 2017/2018 season in Patagonia.
Nomads of the Seas
For those of you who really crave adventure and expedition cruising, Nomads of the Seas offers guests unprecedented and truly unique opportunities to explore Patagonia by air, land and water aboard the state-of-the-art ship, the Atmosphere, offering a mix of cruising, extreme sports, and multiple daily excursions, complimented of course with superb cuisine. With only 14 cabins (max. 28 guests in addition to 32 crew!) programmes offered include heli-skiing, wildlife adventures or ultimate fly fishing. The range of ‘toys’ include jet boats, ocean kayaks, zodiacs, and helicopters for easy, remote access. This is easily booked out well in advance (often by repeat clients) so you really have to get in early!
The remoteness of southern Patagonia belies some masterful architectural hotels and lodges, where you can return to after activities of the day to enjoy a relaxing spa, jacuzzi or sauna, before indulging in world class dining, and perhaps catch up with guests at the bar in the evening. Check into…
Tierra Patagonia
Surrounded by nature in splendid isolation, overlooking Lake Sarmiento and the towering peaks of Torres del Paine National Park, the award winning architecture of Tierra Patagonia complements the geographical flow of the landscape. After a variety of excursions, return with the option of a relaxing spa session followed by dinner to compare experiences.
Explora Patagonia
Centred in the Torres del Paine National Park on the shores of turquoise Lake Pehoé, mixing refined luxury with adventure. Guides are on hand to offer over 50 different guided hikes and horseback rides with breathtaking views of glaciers, lakes and mountains.
Awasi Patagoni
A member of the Relais & Chateaux group (some of you are very familiar with this brand), Asasi is situated in a private reserve, just outside of the Torres del Paine National Park. With just 12 totally private villas, designed by Chilean architect Felipe Assadi, each villa faces glacial lakes and Torres del Paine massif – each with its own fireplace, sheepskin rugs and hot bath to soak in. As an all inclusive lodge each villa also comes with your own private guide and 4WD vehicle to explore.
The Singular
Recognised as one of the most unique hotels in Chile, this remarkable 57-room luxury hotel, located near Puerto Natales was once an historic meat-packing plant. Boasting modern, industrial interior design and provides first class pampering and gourmet dining.
