Top Treks in Patagonia: Your Guide to the Best Trails and Views

Patagonia's Best National Parks

Before we dive into the treks, let's take a quick look at the main national parks in Patagonia. There are many other nature reserves and national parks around, but for this blog we'll focus on the main ones you really can't miss out on. For each location, we'll provide you with some well-known big treks, and some lesser-known and quieter hiking routes, so you can easily make up you're mind about what suits your travel style and plans. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, these parks are full of breathtaking natural landscapes and your camera is going to work overtime. 

Los Glaciares National Park

Located on the western edge of Argentinian Patagonia is Los Glaciares National Park, named after the park’s biggest highlight, the unbelievable Perito Moreno Glacier. This impressive slab of ice feels like something out of this world when it's right in front of you, and it's one of those places that actually look better in the mist or under some dark clouds. 

But the Perito Moreno Glacier is not the only wonder that this national park has to offer. The park’s northern sector is a playground for trekkers, with many ice-capped peaks and pristine lakes. From boat rides along the Canal de Los Tempanos to ice hikes and kayaking in the glacier’s vicinity, this national park has a lot to offer adventurous travellers. 

Torres del Paine National Park

The Torres del Paine Massif in Punta Arenas a trekker’s paradise nestled in the heart of Chilean Patagonia. Covering an area of 227,298 hectares and recognised as a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, this park is a testament to nature’s diversity.

As you set off on the park’s trails, you’ll find yourself on a journey through dramatic landscapes that will wake up the explorer in you. From the famous trails of the W trek route that takes you past the Paine Towers, French Valley, and Grey Glacier, to the trek to Mirador Británico that rewards hikers with a breathtaking panoramic view, Torres del Paine National Park’s trails are rewarding for hikers of all skill levels.

You should at least make it to Lake Grey, an icy blue lake with the enormous Grey Glacier and its impressive ice walls in the background. If you don't want to do the W Trek (which is the most popular trek here), and are more into day hikes instead, there's a whole network of intricate trails waiting for you that are no less stunning. You could stay in the area for a couple of days and try a few trails to the main viewpoints in the park. 

Tierra del Fuego National Park

All the way down south lies Tierra del Fuego National Park, which is where the Patagonian mountains and the ocean come together. Covering an area of over 63,000 hectares, there's a big variety of landscapes, from dense forests and peat bogs to rugged coastlines and serene lakes. Here, the Andes meet the Southern Ocean, creating a habitat for unique wildlife like the Andean fox and the penguins that live here.

The park offers a variety of trails that cater to all levels of trekkers, each promising an adventure at the edge of the world. Take a leisurely hike along the Pampa Alta path or challenge yourself on the demanding Paso de la Oveja trail. Whichever you choose, Tierra del Fuego National Park will give you an unforgettable hiking experience in one of the planet's most remote corners.

Queulat National Park

This one isn't as well-known, but we're known for being a little less ordinary. Located in the heart of Chilean Patagonia, Queulat National Park is a sanctuary of natural wonders. The park is renowned for its dense evergreen forests, towering mountains, and the iconic Ventisquero Colgante, or Hanging Glacier. This breathtaking glacier is different from the other ones in Patagonia, as it looks like it's clinging to the side of a mountain, with large chunks of ice crashing into the lagoon below every once in a while. 

We're repeating ourselves a bit here, but this park also offers a variety of trails, from easy walks to more demanding hikes, each leading to spectacular viewpoints and unique natural attractions. Among these is the trail to the Témpanos Lagoon, where visitors can get an up-close view of the glacier and its impressive icefalls.

Patagonia's Main Treks: An Overview

Patagonia is a region that spans two countries, Chile and Argentina, and it's filled with breathtaking landscapes and diverse trails. The place has long been a magnet for hikers and trekkers from around the globe.

Patagonia’s trekking scene is defined by its iconic routes - the Torres Del Paine Full Circuit Trek, the W Trek, and the Fitz Roy Trek. Each of these trails offers a unique adventure, from conquering challenging terrains to seeing the extreme landscapes that have made the Patagonian multi-day treks famous.

But beyond the famous routes and popular hikes, Patagonia also hides lesser-known trails that take you off the beaten track. For those yearning for an off-beat experience, these trails offer an intimate encounter with Patagonia’s untamed wilderness, away from the crowds (as far as there are any in this remote region).

Torres del Paine W Trek: the Classic Trek

Stepping into the Torres del Paine National Park, you’re greeted with a spectacle that words struggle to capture and photos can’t do justice. This place houses two big treks:

• The W Trek, a journey that takes you through many scenic landscapes with jagged mountains, colossal glaciers and stunning lakes
• The Full Circuit or O Trek, which does the same but as you've guessed it - makes up a full round.

Since most travellers go for the former, that's the one we'll highlight here. The W Trek, named for the shape of its route, spans approximately 55 miles and typically takes 4 to 5 days to complete. For adventure-seekers looking for a longer journey, the 5-day option includes a night by the Grey Glacier – an unforgettable experience that lets you witness the glacier up close.

Accommodation along the W Trek are mainly campsites, but the facilities vary per camp - from hot showers to small restaurants. It’s a good blend of rugged adventure and comfort, making the W Trek an ideal choice for fit, active walkers who enjoy camp-to-camp hiking with a normal sized backpack. However, keep in mind that like all treks in Patagonia, both the W Trek and the Full Circuit trek can present challenges with unpredictable weather and long daily distances. It really is a test of endurance for those less prepared.

Fitz Roy's Spectacular Scenery

Moving over the border and into Argentinian Patagonia, where Los Glaciares National Park and its stunning scenery are marked by the spires of Cerro Torre and Cerro Fitz Roy - two impressive peaks standing tall against the Patagonian sky. 

The iconic trek to Laguna de Los Tres is a favorite among day trekkers. This trail rewards hikers with a spectacular vantage point of the Fitz Roy mountain and the Glacier de Los Tres. The journey, taking 8–10 hours to cover a 25 km round trip, is a sort of ''best of'' route that takes you past many highlights in the park.

If you're into multi-day trekking, Los Glaciares is great too. Either by crossing the Agachonas Pass into the Tunel Valley, or by exploring the Electrico Valley and its lakes filled with glacier water, each trail brings you closer to the raw beauty of Patagonia. With its breathtaking views and diverse trails, Los Glaciares National Park is the best place to enjoy Fitz Roy’s spectacular landscapes.

However, the highlights of Los Glaciares aren't limited to the glaciers. The park’s trails lead to remarkable views like the Laguna Torre, where you get a great view of the massive icebergs, and can take amazing pics at places such as Laguna Capri.

The Untamed Wilderness of Tierra del Fuego

Travelling further south in South America, one can reach the Patagonian steppe of Tierra del Fuego, where the wilderness remains largely untouched and the trails less walked on. Here, the adventure takes on a wilder edge, offering treks like the Montes Martial Circuit and the Sierra Valdivieso, that are a good challenge, even for more experienced adventurers.

One of the region’s most challenging treks is the Dientes de Navarino Circuit. This route presents trekkers with expansive views of the Beagle Channel, steep descents, and traverses over exposed mountain passes. The seven-day trekking experience takes you through remote terrain without properly maintained trails - truly a journey into the wild.

However, bear in mind that Tierra del Fuego is not for the faint-hearted. The region is known for its raw terrain comprising dense forests, rugged mountains and glaciers. The weather, too, is ever-changing, with warmer temperatures in January and February, which unfortunately also come with rainfall. Between May through August, conditions become cold and wet, making many areas frozen and inaccessible, so we really recommend visiting in Patagonian summer (European winter). If you time it right, this is one of the most beautiful places you'll ever set foot in. 

Off the Beaten Track: Lesser-Known Treks

If you're in search of something away from the main treks, Patagonia’s lesser-known trails offer a world of hidden treasures. Away from the beaten track, these trails take you even deeper into Patagonia’s wilderness, offering an experience unlike any other.

The Gorgeous Lago del Desierto Trek

For those looking for a peaceful getaway, the Lago del Desierto trek provides a calm experience in Argentinian Patagonia. This trail, which isn't very known, takes hikers along the clear Lago del Desierto, a glacial lake surrounded by the Andes. The path is less crowded, allowing for a quiet walk through green forests and next to clear streams. On clear days you'll have gorgeous views of the mountains and even Fitz Roy making the 12 km trek (one way) worth it. There's even a ferry across the lake, so you don't have to hike all the way back.

If you've got time for more hiking in this area, we also highly recommend the Huemul Glacier trek. This one is only 3.2 kilometres, but you will have to hike the same way back, which isn't a bad thing as you'll have more time to admire the views and take pictures. Both treks are especially recommended during the beginning of April, as both trails are quite forested (especially for Patagonia) and the autumn colours will be absolutely beautiful. 

Ventisquero Colgante: Trek to the Hanging Glacier

This one is quite a sight to behold. This natural wonder seems to defy gravity as it clings to the mountain slopes, with either a flowing or a frozen waterfall originating from the glacier (depending on the season). To reach the viewpoint of the Ventisquero Colgante, you'll hike on a well-marked trail through the temperate rainforest, a journey that is as rewarding as the destination itself. The path leads to a suspended bridge, offering an unobstructed view of the glacier and the thunderous roar of the waterfalls created by its melting ice. If you want to, you can experience the glacier up close, as there are boat tours available on the lagoon formed by the glacier’s meltwater.

The trek to Ventisquero Colgante is relatively accessible, making it an excellent option for day hikers who don't mind an early morning start, and those looking to add a memorable detour to their Patagonian adventure. 

Not For Everyone: The Southern Ice Field

For experienced trekkers in search of the ultimate challenge, the remote treks along the Southern Patagonian Ice Field are your answer. Take the Patagonia Ice Cap trek, for instance. Known for its long, challenging days, this trek presents hikers with unique landscapes and tough conditions. But with every step, you’re rewarded with views of the ice field few ever get to see – and that makes every drop of sweat absolutely worth it.

If you're not so keen of hiking on ice but would rather go up into Patagonia's mountains, the O Circuit's John Gardner Pass is what you want. Its 1,200-metres of elevation make it one of the highest trekking points in Torres del Paine, which is why not many people take the challenge of hiking this one. 

Here you'll have a view over the Southern Patagonian Ice Field from a vantage point like no other, where the big slab of ice stretches as far as the eye can see. The trek itself will present you with many amazing views though, and is one of the best ways to experience the raw beauty of the Patagonia region.

To Guide or Not To Guide

One of the decisions you’ll need to make when planning your Patagonia trek is whether to opt for a guided or self-guided trek. This decision, while seemingly simple, can greatly influence your trekking experience.

Self-guided treks, for instance, can be more affordable than organised tours, as travellers have more control over their expenses. This makes self-guided treks a popular choice among budget-conscious travellers. However, self-guided treks also require more planning and preparation, especially when it comes to understanding the terrain and navigating the trails.

On the other hand, guided tours offer the advantage of expert knowledge and guidance. From providing comprehensive information about the local environment, history, and wildlife, to ensuring your safety on the trails, guided tours offer a more enriched trekking experience. Whether you prefer the independence of a self-guided trek or the convenience of a guided tour, the choice is yours to make.

Ready to pack those hiking boots yet?

Wrapping up on the treks of Patagonia, one thing is clear: this region offers a trekking experience like no other. From the iconic trails of Torres del Paine National Park and Los Glaciares National Park to the lesser-known gems of Tierra del Fuego and Parque Patagonia, these treks offer a mix of adventure, calmness, and gorgeous nature.

But a successful trek in Patagonia is more than just choosing the right trail. It’s about prepping your journey – from bringing the right gear and even some training for physical endurance, to understanding the unique challenges of the region’s trails. With that, we can help you - as the experts on off-the-beaten-path travel, we'll make sure you've got all the info and support you need. So, are you ready to lace up your boots and embark on a trekking adventure in Patagonia, Argentina or Chile?