Torres Del Paine National Park
Torres Del Paine National Park

Patagonia FAQs

What should I pack for a Patagonia holiday?

Essential items include a waterproof jacket, walking poles for trekking, layers for changing weather conditions, and a reusable bottle to minimise plastic waste. Camera-ready equipment is crucial for capturing the stunning views. We strongly recommend packing for all weather conditions, regardless of season.

What currency is used in Patagonia?

Argentine pesos in Argentina and Chilean pesos in Chile. US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas and often preferred for larger purchases. Credit and debit cards work in main towns, though cash is recommended for small purchases and personal expenses in remote areas.

How physically demanding are Patagonia holidays?

Activity levels vary greatly depending on your chosen itinerary. While some experiences like boat trips to glaciers, require minimal walking, multi-day treks demand good fitness. Day walks offer middle-ground options, and many stunning views are accessible within walking distance of vehicle drop-off points.

What about meals and dietary requirements?

Most tours include group meals featuring local cuisine at carefully selected local restaurants. Vegetarian and other dietary requirements can usually be accommodated with advance notice. Some remote locations have limited options, but our local guides ensure appropriate arrangements.

How do I get to Patagonia?

Most visitors fly to Buenos Aires or Santiago, then take connecting flights to regional airports like El Calafate, Punta Arenas, or Puerto Natales. Some itineraries include overnight flights, and we arrange all transfers, including any departure date flexibility needed for weather delays.

Is wifi available throughout Patagonia?

Wi fi is available in most hotels and towns, though connections can be slower and less reliable than in major cities. Remote areas and some national parks have limited or no connectivity, which many visitors find enhances their travel experience.

What about altitude considerations?

Most of Patagonia is at relatively low altitude, but some hiking trails reach elevations where acclimatisation becomes important. Our local guides monitor conditions and adjust itineraries as needed for your safety and comfort.

Is Patagonia good for solo travel?

Absolutely. Meet like-minded travellers on our expertly led group tours. It’s a great way to make new friends. What’s more, there is no single supplement to pay if you’re willing to share a room with a member of the same sex (even if final numbers mean you end up with a room of your own.

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Meet our team

Real Latin american experts

  • Alex
    Alex Walker - Travel Expert

    A globetrotter since her childhood, Alex spent a year studying abroad in Guadalajara and has returned to Latin America countless times since then.

  • Hannah
    Hannah Donaldson - Travel Expert

    Having spent part of her childhood in Colombia and worked in Brazil and Costa Rica, Hannah's ties to Latin America run deep. Hannah is a much valued Travel Expert in our Tailor-made Holidays and Group Tours sales team.

  • Mary
    Mary Anne Nelson - Travel Expert

    Born in the Atacama Desert in northern Chile, Mary’s insider knowledge and dry sense of humour make her a highly valued member of the Tailor-made Holidays and Group Tour sales team.

  • Chris
    Chris Rendell-Dunn - Travel Expert

    Anglo-Peruvian Chris grew up in Lima and spent much of his adult life in between London and Cusco as a tour leader, before settling permanently in our London-based Tailor-made and Group Tours sales team.

  • Ben
    Ben Line - Travel Expert

    Ben fell in love with Latin America on a six month backpacking trip from Colombia to Mexico in 1995. Since then he has explored most of South America, including living in Peru for a year. He is now Head of Sales.

  • Carrie
    Carrie Gallagher - Travel Expert

    A former JLA tour leader, Carrie brings a wealth of on-the-ground experience to our London-based Tailor-made and Group Tours department.

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