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.

Papagaio

Your edit for Latin American inspiration

Our exciting range of articles on Latin America explore everything from iconic destinations and lesser-known cultural gems to delicious traditional recipes. You’ll also find exclusive travel tips, first-hand client reviews and the chance to get your personal questions answered by our travel experts.

View Extraordinary Inspiration
Bartolome, Galápagos

Meet our team

Real Latin american experts

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Sallly
    Sally Dodge - Travel Expert

    A former Journey Latin America tour leader, Sally spent 7 years working, travelling and living throughout Latin America before returning to the UK to help people arrange their own adventures to this wonderful destination.

  • Juliet
    Juliet Ellwood - Travel Expert

    After graduating with a degree in Anthropology and History and having been fascinated by Latin America since childhood by the book featuring photos of Nazca, Juliet first visited the region in 2003. Since then, Juliet has visited the majority of countries in Latin America but has particularly extensive experience with Peru, a country she loves for many reasons but not least, its incredible archaeological richness and delicious food!

  • Sophie
    Sophie Barber - Travel Expert

    Sophie lived in Chile before joining us and has travelled extensively across Latin America, from Mexico to the furthest tip of Patagonia and beyond to Antarctica.

  • 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.

0 1 2 3 4 5