Patagonia Peaks & Penguins
Join us on an unforgettable journey to one of the most remote and breathtaking regions in the world—Patagonia!
From the jagged peaks of El Chaltén to the colossal glaciers of El Calafate, and the windswept shores of Tierra del Fuego in Ushuaia, this tour immerses you in the wild beauty of Southern Argentina.
Tour Highlights
This carefully curated tour offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and exploration, designed for nature lovers, adventurers, and those seeking to experience Patagonia’s raw beauty. With guided hikes, glacier treks, scenic cruises, and plenty of time to soak in the stunning surroundings, you’ll leave with memories that will last a lifetime.
- Start your adventure with a visit to the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier, where massive icebergs break off and crash into the turquoise waters below.
- Trek through the pristine landscapes of El Chaltén, home to some of the world’s most stunning mountain trails, including the Fitz Roy Trail.
- Journey to Ushuaia—the southernmost city on Earth—where you’ll explore the dramatic fjords of the Beagle Channel and walk amongst penguins
- Discover the untouched beauty of Tierra del Fuego National Park
- Enjoy an intimate dining experience at the home of a local fisherwoman who will serve a luxury meal featuring the fresh catch of the day and accompanied by fine Argentine wine.
- Immerse yourself in the culture and cuisine of Patagonia's remote towns
This carefully curated tour offers the perfect blend of exploration, relaxation, and adventure, and discovery - it was designed for nature lovers, adventurers, and those seeking to experience Patagonia’s raw beauty. With guided hikes, glacier treks, scenic cruises, and plenty of time to soak in the stunning surroundings, you’ll leave with memories that will last a lifetime.
map not to scale
Join Us
Escape the ordinary. Join us on an unforgettable journey to one of the most remote and breathtaking regions in the world!
Contact us
if you have questions or would like to schedule a call.
Are you ready to register and take the first step toward an amazing journey?
Dates & Prices
December 1-15, 2025
15 days/14 nights
$6,500 per person; $1,400 single room supplement
Reserve your spot with a $900 deposit.
Full payment due October 2, 2025
(60 days prior to the tour).
Inclusions
- English-speaking tour leader
- Local step-guides with specialized knowledge
- Land transportation in destination
- Accommodations (14 nights)
- Meals (breakfast x14, lunch x2, dinner x4)
- Entrance to all included activities
- Expertly crafted itinerary by experienced travel designers, and support throughout your trip
Exclusions:
- Flights
- Optional activities
- Meals (except as noted)
- Travel Insurance
Daily Itinerary
Daily itinerary subject to change once the actual dates for the Carnaval parade are announced.
Day 1 (Mon, Dec 1) - Arrive Buenos Aires
Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel.
You will have the rest of the day to enjoy the city at your own pace.
Day 2 (Tues, Dec 2)- Buenos Aires
In the morning, explore the heart of Buenos Aires with an engaging half-day tour! We'll visit iconic landmarks, stroll through historic neighborhoods like San Telmo and La Boca, and feel the vibrant spirit of the city. Our knowledgeable guide will share captivating stories about Buenos Aires' rich history, its European-influenced architecture, and the beloved local culture.
The afternoon will be free for you to explore on your own.
We’ll conclude the day in true Argentine style, with a memorable tango dinner show. Savor local cuisine and watch as skilled dancers bring the passionate art of tango to life. This is the perfect introduction to Buenos Aires, blending history, culture, and unforgettable entertainment!
Day 3 (Wed, Dec 3) - Flight to Patagonia
The Patagonia portion of your adventure begins with a flight from Buenos Aires to El Calafate, the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park. Upon arrival we will take a shuttle to to the small town of El Chaltén with amazing views and an interesting stop en route (about 3 hours).
Settle into your accommodations, then enjoy an optional short hike in the afternoon.
In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. You’ll be treated to traditional Patagonian cuisine, perhaps with specialties like grilled lamb or trout, paired with Argentine wine. Take this time to relax and enjoy your first evening in Patagonia as you prepare for the days of adventure ahead.
Day 4 (Thurs, Dec 4) - Scenic Short Hikes in El Chaltén
Today, enjoy a series of short, scenic hikes to Chorillo del Salto, Mirador los Condores, and Mirador las Aguilas, each offering stunning views of waterfalls, mountains, and the Patagonian panoramic landscapes. These gentle yet beautiful walks will not only immerse you in the region’s natural beauty, but also serve as a perfect warm-up for tomorrow’s longer hike to Laguna de los Tres.
As always, you are free to choose in which activities you participate.
Day 5 (Fri, Dec 5) - Fitz Roy Trail & Laguna de los Tres
Today’s adventure is a full-day guided hike on the iconic Fitz Roy Trail, a 25 km/15 mile trek offering some of the most breathtaking views in Patagonia.
The majority of the hike is on fairly level terrain, passing through forests and valleys with stunning views of peaks and glaciers along the way. For those up for the challenge, there is a steep ascent to Laguna de los Tres, where you'll be rewarded with close-up views of the towering Mount Fitz Roy and its surrounding peaks. This last stretch is a 400 meter climb in the last 1km (0.6 miles). Those preferring to stay on flatter ground can relax at a lower viewpoint, have a snack and enjoy the magnificent scenery, for an hour or so while we wait for the heros that climb to the peak!
Day 6 (Sat, Dec 6) - Free Day in El Chaltén – Optional Adventures
After yesterday’s challenging hike, enjoy a free day in El Chaltén to relax or embark on optional adventures.
A scenic kayaking trip on the Rio de las Vueltas river is an exhilarating experience - at one point all the kayaks hold onto each other and let the wind propell you across an open portion of the river! And the views are amazing.
Alternatively, For those looking to explore more, take a hike to Laguna Capri, Margarita Viewpoint, or Tower Viewpoint, which are easy to moderate hikes of 3-5 hours each.
Those wanting a more relaxing day can explore the town's cozy cafés and artisan shops for a more leisurely pace.
The day is yours to enjoy at your own pace, whether by resting or continuing your adventure.
Day 7 (Sun, Dec 7) - El Calafate & Glacier Museum
After breakfast we will take the scenic drive to El Calafate.
After checking into your hotel, we will head to the Glaciarium, Patagonia's renowned glacier museum, located just a short drive from the town. The museum offers a fascinating and interactive introduction to the region’s unique glacial landscape, explaining the science behind glacier formation and the importance of the Patagonian Ice Field. This is the perfect way to prepare for your upcoming encounters with these icy giants.
Day 8 (Mon, Dec 8) - Perito Moreno Glacier
We will start the day by setting off on a one-hour scenic drive to Los Glaciares National Park, home to the world-famous Perito Moreno Glacier. This majestic glacier, one of the few advancing glaciers in the world, stretches over 30 kilometers and rises 60 meters above Lake Argentino.
Spend the day exploring the network of walkways and balconies, offering stunning views of the glacier from various vantage points. Take your time to enjoy the sights and sounds of the glacier, including the dramatic ice calving.
For those seeking additional adventure, there are optional boat tours or ice trekking experiences that can be added to your day. We made these optional to accommodate the interests and capabilities of participants.
Day 9 (Tues, Dec 9) - Free Day in El Calafate – Optional Adventures
Today, the day is yours to explore at your own pace and indulge in the experiences that most appeal to you.
Patagonian Ranch: For those looking for a true taste of Patagonian culture, visit a traditional ranch for a BBQ lunch, where you'll enjoy authentic Argentine cuisine paired with sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Afterward, saddle up for a horseback ride offering unforgettable panoramic views.
Full Day or Sunset Glacier Cruise: Opt for a full day or a sunset glacier cruise where you'll sail among massive icebergs, including the imposing and majestic Spegazzini Glacier, the largest of all with its height of more than 135 meters.
Exploring the Town and Lake: For a more relaxed pace, take a walk along the shores of Lago Argentino, keeping an eye out for local wildlife such as Chilean flamingos and other native birds. You can also spend the day exploring the town, shopping for souvenirs in the local boutiques, or simply relaxing and soaking in the peaceful Patagonian atmosphere.
We will provide a list of recommended activities and excursions in the months prior to departure. The choice is yours!
Day 10 (Wed, Dec 10) - Travel to the End of the World
In the afternoon, catch a 2-hour flight from El Calafate to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. After settling into your hotel, we will make a visit to the End of the World Museum, where you’ll get an introduction to the region’s rich history, from early indigenous cultures, ship explorations, and the founding of the penal colonies.
Day 11 (Thurs, Dec 11) - Tierra del Fuego National Park
Spend the day exploring the stunning landscapes of Tierra del Fuego National Park on a hike through its diverse terrain of forests, rivers, and lakes. Whie hiking, you’ll discover the unique flora and fauna of the region, with opportunities to spot local wildlife such as guanacos and Andean foxes.
Our guide will start at the End of the Wold post office, and take the Coastal Path to the visitor center where we will stop for lunch. After lunch, those that are up for the rest of the hike will continue along along scenic paths, taking in panoramic views of the Lapataia Bay and the rugged Patagonian wilderness, ending at Mirador Lapataia, Puerto Arias, and the famous sign marking the end of Route 3 and the Pan-American Highway.
Tierra del Fuego National Park has 10 marked trails: short, long, easy and strenuous. You can choose your own trail and pace, or accompany our guide. Catch our shuttle back to El Chalten at the Visitor Center or
Afterward, return to Ushuaia for a relaxing evening.
Day 12 (Fri, Dec 12) - Walk with Penguins
Today, embark on an unforgettable adventure - a boat tour to Isla Martillo, where you'll have the rare opportunity to walk among Magellanic and Gentoo penguins in their natural habitat.
The day begins with a drive to Harberton Ranch, followed by a scenic boat ride crossing the Beagle Channel alongside other passengers, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Patagonian wilderness. Once you arrive at Isla Martillo, step ashore for a guided trek, walking amongst the charming penguin colonies as they waddle, nest, and interact.
Day 13 (Sat, Dec 13) - Beagle Channel Culinary Experience
Enjoy a unique culinary experience. Travel by land to Puerto Almanza, a remote fishing village on the Beagle Channel, to visit the charming home of a local fisherwoman - the only female boat captain on the Beagle Channel. You will be welcomed to her home and will savor a gourmet lunch featuring the freshest local catch, paired with Argentine wine. This intimate meal offers an authentic taste of Patagonian culture and hospitality.
Day 14 (Sun, Dec 14) - Free Day in Ushuaia – Optional Activities
Enjoy a free day in Ushuaia, with a variety of activities to choose from:
- Take a Beagle Channel boat tour, passing islands inhabited by sea lions and the iconic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse
- Hike to the stunning Martial Glacier or Laguna Esmeralda for breathtaking views of the surrounding glaciers, mountains and wilderness
- Hop aboard the historic End of the World Train, for a scenic ride through the forests and valleys of Tierra del Fuego. This historic train was originally built as a freight line to serve the prison of Ushuaia and to transport timber.
- Embark on a day tour crossing the Andes via the Garibaldi Pass, passing Lago Escondido, and eventually arriving at the remote Cabo San Pablo to explore the hauntingly beautiful shipwreck of the Desdémona. You will also enjoy a homemade lunch prepared by a local family.
Group Farewell Dinner at Taberna Del Viejo Lobo or similar.
Day 15 (Mon, Dec 15) - Good-bye Ushuaia - Flight to Buenos Aires
Most of the day is yours to explore in or near Ushuaia. We will head to the airport in the afternoon for our 3.5 hour flight to Buenos Aires.
Essential Trip Information
Deposit & Payment
Reserve your spot with a $500 deposit.
The balance will be due October 2 (60 days prior to the tour).
See our standard terms and conditions and refund policy
Group Size
Our tours are designed for a maximum of 12 travelers, creating an intimate atmosphere that allows for personal attention and flexibility during the trip. There is no minimum number of travelers - we will operate the tour for anyone who registers. Read more about our approach to small group tours
Activity Level
The Patagonia tour is best suited for fit travelers who enjoy outdoor activities. There is one very long hike (Fitz Roy Trail) and a several moderate hikes planned, however participation in all activities is optional. We will help arrange alternative activities for people who are not interested or able to participate on these hikes.
Weather
In December, Patagonia experiences summer weather, with approximately 16-17 hours of daylight and temperatures typically ranging from 5°C to 18°C (41°F to 64°F). However, the weather can be highly unpredictable, with possible strong winds, occasional rain, and rapid changes, so layers and waterproof gear are essential.
Accommodations
All accommodations are well-located, and have clean room with comfortable beds, en suite bathrooms, and AC/heat. We try to select unique and/or boutique accommodations when possible, as well as smart-value premium hotels (4/5 stars). Luxury upgrades may be available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is required and should be purchased as soon as you book your tour or airfare. We do not endorse any specific company, but can provide you with a list of travel insurance options.
Children
This small group tour was designed for adult travelers. We love children and families and would be happy to plan a private tour that would be better suited for a family.
Why travel with Trico Tours?
Authentic Cultural Experiences
We have a deep respect for local people, communities and cultures. In addition to must-see sites, we can also recommend unique and boutique sites that allow you to experience the true heart and soul of the culture.
Personal Attention
We treat all our guests like friends. We start with a conversation and create thoroughly-planned, custom itineraries tailored to your interests, pace, and travel styles.
Peace of Mind
Our travel specialists and guides are knowledgeable and highly engaged. We handle all the details and provide 24/7 support offer peace of mind that everything is taken care of and your trip runs smoothly.
We would love to hear from you.
Whether you are just exploring possibilities or are in the process of planning your travel, we are happy to have a conversation. (We are actually quite friendly.)