Navigate Patagonia
Accommodation
Activities To Do
Restaurants
Night Life
Flights
Transportation
Patagonia, a vast and breathtaking region spanning the southern parts of Argentina and Chile, is a dream destination for adventurers and nature lovers. With its stunning glaciers, towering mountains, and tranquil fjords, exploring this remote area requires some planning. Whether you’re traveling from afar or navigating its rugged landscapes, choosing the right transportation method is essential. In this guide, we’ll break down all the options for getting to and around Patagonia.
Getting Around Patagonia
Once you’ve arrived, getting around Patagonia is its own adventure. The region’s vastness and remote locations make transportation options varied but essential.
Domestic Flights
For those short on time, domestic flights are the best way to cover large distances between key destinations. For example, you can fly from El Calafate to Ushuaia or from Punta Arenas to Puerto Natales, saving hours of travel time.
Buses and Shuttles
Local bus services connect major towns and tourist attractions in Patagonia. These buses are reliable and affordable, though schedules may be limited.
- Tourist shuttles: Many tour companies operate shuttles between popular sites, such as Torres del Paine National Park and El Calafate.
Car Rentals
Renting a car is an excellent choice for exploring Patagonia’s remote areas, such as the Carretera Austral in Chile or Route 40 in Argentina.
- What to know: Roads in Patagonia are often unpaved, so renting a sturdy vehicle like an SUV is recommended. Be prepared for long stretches without gas stations.
Ferries and Boats
Patagonia’s network of fjords and lakes makes ferries a vital mode of transport. For instance, the Navimag Ferry connects Puerto Montt to Puerto Natales, offering spectacular views of the region’s waterways.
- Lakes: In Los Glaciares National Park, boat tours take you up close to glaciers like Perito Moreno.
Unique Transportation Experiences
Looking for something beyond the usual buses and planes? Patagonia offers several one-of-a-kind transportation experiences.
Cruises and Expedition Ships
Exploring Patagonia by sea is a breathtaking experience. Cruises like those operated by Australis take you through the Beagle Channel and Strait of Magellan, with stops at glaciers and penguin colonies.
Horseback Riding
In rural Patagonia, horseback riding is a traditional way to travel. Many ranches and tour operators offer guided rides, allowing you to experience the landscape as the locals have for generations.
Cycling Adventures
For the truly adventurous, cycling through Patagonia offers a challenging yet rewarding way to explore. Trails like the Carretera Austral are popular with cyclists who don’t mind rugged terrain and unpredictable weather.