Patagonia | The Wild South
Explore the very best of Patagonia
Ancient glaciers of the Strait of Magellan and dramatic Torres del Paine National Park
“We have enjoyed our journey, met new friends and been greatly enriched by this experience... Our expectations have been surpassed.”
Book this trip: Email us » Call us +1 510-420-1550
Welcome to Buenos Aires
Your Patagonian adventure begins with two nights in the beautifully seductive Argentine capital of Buenos Aires. Enjoy a morning guided tour of the city with free time in the afternoon to explore on your own. From Buenos Aires, you’ll fly south to Ushuaia to board your expedition ship to explore the Beagle Channel, Glacier Alley, and the Strait of Magellan as you make your way north into Chile.
Cruising the Beagle Channel, Cape Horn, and Strait of Magellan
Step aboard Ventus Australis for a 4-night expedition cruise and explore pristine forests and magnificent glaciers
With space for up to 200 guests, sister ships Ventus Australis and Stella Australis provide a rich program of exploration and discovery from an elegantly appointed expedition ship with spacious cabins and public spaces. You’ll have the opportunity to explore by zodiac, land ashore for walks or more energetic hikes, and assist the resident science team with data collection. More about the ships »
Torres del Paine National Park and Tierra Patagonia Lodge
Breathtaking views, expert guides, endless activities, and award-winning Patagonian comfort
Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park provides some of the most stunning vistas in Patagonia. The park is home to famous hiking trails, endless walks, and opportunities to observe the majestic scenery, flora, and fauna. Guanaco, Andean Condor, and Southern Grey Fox are spotted regularly. For those with a sharp eye, you may also spot armadillo, rhea, and the elusive puma.
When not out enjoying the park, soak in the views from virtually every room at Tierra Patagonia Lodge. The award-winning architecture provides the perfect backdrop for your environment. Relax in the spa and enjoy early morning yoga or sunsets with a complimentary cocktail. Your all-inclusive stay includes a wide choice of half and full-day guided excursions, all meals, and an open bar.
Additional lodge options are also possible, based on availability.
Your Itinerary
The Wild South operates during the Patagonian Spring, Summer and Fall (between October and March).
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Day 1 | Arrive Buenos Aires
You’ll be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel in the heart of cosmopolitan Buenos Aires. The remainder of the day is yours to rest and relax after your long flight, or don your walking shoes and start exploring the neighborhood.
Day 2 | Buenos Aires
After breakfast, enjoy a half-day guided tour of the city, ending with lunch in a notable spot. The afternoon is yours to enjoy on your own.
If you would like to arrive a few days early and enjoy even more of the many charms of Buenos Aires, a variety of tours and hotel packages are available, including extensions to Iguazu Falls. See Argentina extensions »
Day 3 | To Ushuaia and Embarkation
After breakfast, you’ll meet your driver for the short ride to the city’s domestic airport for the 3-hour flight south to Ushuaia in Tierra del Fuego. After your transfer to the Australis to check in, you’ll have a little time to wander the quaint downtown of Ushuaia before boarding your expedition ship for the next four nights.
Day 4 | Cape Horn and Wulaia Bay
You’ll sail through Murray Channel and Nassau Bay to reach Cape Horn National Park, where, weather permitting, you go ashore. In the afternoon, you’ll go ashore at historical Wulaia Bay, the site of one of the region’s largest Yamana aboriginal settlements, once visited by Charles Darwin. You’ll walk through Magellanic Forests to reach a panoramic viewpoint.
Day 5 | Pia Glacier and Porter Glacier
In the morning, you’ll sail along the northwest arm of the Beagle Channel to enter and disembark in the Pia Fjord. A short excursion will lead you to the viewpoint of the Pia Glacier, whose main peak extends from the top of the mountain range to the sea. In the afternoon, you’ll navigate by zodiac between high rocky walls to Porter Glacier.
Day 6 | Agostini Sound, Aguilla Glacier, and Condor Glacier
Today, you will navigate the Cockburn Channel and enter the Agostini Sound to see the glaciers that descend from the center of the Darwin Mountain Range, some of which reach the sea. During the morning, you will disembark the zodiacs for a walk around a lagoon formed by the melting Aguila Glacier. In the afternoon, the zodiacs will navigate to the Condor Glacier. You will learn about the formation of glaciers and their influence on the abrupt geography of the Fuegian channels.
Day 7 | Magdalena Island and Disembarkation in Punta Arenas
Weather permitting, you’ll disembark at Magdalena Island early in the morning to walk among a large colony of Magellanic penguins. After ample time for photos, you’ll arrive in Punta Arenas around noon, where you’ll meet your driver and proceed north to Torres del Paine National Park.
Days 8 - 11 | Torres del Paine National Park
In Torres del Paine National Park, you will have four full days of activities from the comfort of the award-winning Tierra Patagonia Lodge. This all-inclusive experience allows you to do as much or as little as you please, surrounded the entire time by some of the most stunning scenery in Patagonia.
Day 12 | To Puerto Natales and Santiago
After breakfast, an early transfer will take you to the town of Puerto Natales, where you’ll board your flight to Santiago. You’ll arrive in time to make onward connections home.
If you prefer to linger in Santiago, take the opportunity to explore the many attractions, such as nearby wine country, coastal Valparaiso, or the Lakes District. Please see Chile extensions »
The Wild South - Dates & Prices
All prices are per person, double occupancy unless otherwise specified.
| Start Buenos Aires | End Santiago | Cat. A Cabin | Cat. AA Cabin | Cat. AAA Cabin | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 09 Mar 2024 | 20 Mar 2024 | $13,420 | $13,760 | $14,145 | |
| 17 Mar 2024 | 28 Mar 2024 | $13,420 | $13,760 | $14,145 | |
| 06 Apr 2024 | 17 Apr 2024 | $10,130 | $10,380 | $10,710 | |
| 10 Nov 2024 | 21 Nov 2024 | $14,350 | $14,665 | $15,075 | |
| 30 Nov 2024 | 11 Dec 2024 | $14,350 | $14,665 | $15,075 | |
| 08 Dec 2024 | 19 Dec 2024 | $14,350 | $14,665 | $15,075 | |
| 05 Jan 2025 | 16 Jan 2025 | $14,350 | $14,665 | $15,075 | |
| 25 Jan 2025 | 05 Feb 2025 | $14,350 | $14,665 | $15,075 | |
| 02 Feb 2025 | 13 Feb 2025 | $14,350 | $14,665 | $15,075 | |
| 22 Feb 2025 | 05 Mar 2025 | $14,350 | $14,665 | $15,075 | |
| 02 Mar 2025 | 13 Mar 2025 | $12,250 | $12,560 | $12,975 | |
| 22 Mar 2025 | 02 Apr 2025 | $10,825 | $11,235 | $11,545 |
Additional departure dates are possible. Please ask one of our experts for more details.
Book this trip: Email us » Call us +1 510-420-1550
Inclusions and exclusions
Included
Meet on arrival at Ezeiza International Airport with private transfer into Buenos Aires
2 nights accommodations (bed and breakfast) at Mio Hotel
Four-hour introductory tour of Buenos Aires
Private transfer to Aeroparque Jorge Newberry domestic airport for flight to Ushuaia
Meet on arrival in Ushuaia and transfer to Australis reception office
4 nights accommodations aboard AUSTRALIS ships with all meals, beverages, and activities in the cabin category of your choice
Transfer to Punta Arenas for embarkation
5 nights accommodations (all meals and beverages) at Tierra Patagonia Lodge in Superior room
4 full days of guided activities
Transfer to Puerto Natales Airport for flight to Santiago
Additional costs (subject to change without notice)
International airfare to Buenos Aires and return from Santiago
Domestic airfare (Buenos Aires to Ushuaia and Puerto Natales to Santiago)
Travel Insurance (MedEvac coverage is compulsory; trip cancellation/delay/baggage coverage is optional)
Laundry and items of a personal nature
Extended stays in Chile and Argentina. Click links for options.
Deposit, Payment & Cancellation Schedule
Deposit
A deposit of 30% is due at the time of booking
Any additional arrangements may incur further deposits, due at the time of booking those services
Payment
The balance is due 90 days before departure
Domestic or regional airfares are due at the time of ticketing
Cancellation
Up to 121 days before departure – deposit may be refunded less a $500 cancellation penalty.
120-91 days before departure – deposit may be refunded less a $750 cancellation penalty.
90-61 days before departure – all monies received are subject to a 50% cancellation penalty.
60-0 days before departure – 100% of the full trip price is forfeited
See additional Terms & Conditions »
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to go?
Patagonia is best experienced from October through April. December & January are the most popular times due to the winter holidays and South American summer vacations.
What will I see?
Our itineraries start in charming Santiago or ultra-chic Buenos Aires before venturing into the stunning topography of Patagonia. With a variety of itineraries to choose from or the option to create a private customized adventure, this INCA destination combines wildlife, glaciers, hiking, and cruising with fine dining and luxurious accommodations.
Is this trip for me?
Patagonia can accommodate various levels of activity, from gentle walks & cruising to horseback riding and challenging hikes.
Do I need a visa?
Please consult your local Argentine and Chilean consulates.