The Argentinian Lake District’s most popular destination, San Carlos de Bariloche, commonly called Bariloche, is a city for all seasons. It features a setting second to none – stretching along a glacial lake shoreline, surrounded by a national park in Argentina’s pristine Patagonia region. The region offers myriad activities and leisure opportunities: whether you want to go skiing, hiking, fly-fishing, or simply kick back and indulge in an epicurean feast, it’s all there for the taking. The city's numerous cafés and chocolate shops are a delight to explore by day; while after sunset, the city lights up with bars and nightclubs, where locals and visitors can dance the night away. Don't miss the opportunity to view the unique Swiss alpine-style architecture and discover the spectacular surrounding Andes Mountains.
Argentina's Lake District is a wilderness wonderland of pristine glacial lakes, cascading waterfalls, snow-capped mountains and forested valleys where condors fly overhead. A playground for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, travellers to this spectacular setting can go trekking, fishing or skiing, or simply relax and soak up the scenery. While nature is the prime attraction here, the region encompasses several charming towns that act as gateways for exploring the surroundings. Arguably the most enticing of all these is beautiful Bariloche - set on Lake Nahuel Huapi's banks against rugged, snowy peaks that have earned it the nickname 'Argentina's Switzerland'. Another lovely stop is San Martín de los Andes, on Lake Lácar beneath the Mount Lanín volcano. This beguiling village has a shabby-chic charm - its slightly dilapidated buildings interspersed with rambling rose bushes and spiky 'monkey puzzle' trees.
Idyllically situated in the Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina’s Santa Cruz province, the village of El Chaltén is known as Argentina's trekking capital. It is a popular haven for outdoor enthusiasts with hiking opportunities abound for both advanced and beginner trekkers. Just an hour’s walk can lead you straight to the treasures of Los Glaciares National Park, which range from great glaciers to towering rocky summits and rolling forests. Founded in 1985, the town got its name from the Tehuelche word meaning ‘mountain that smokes’, because of the clouds that persistently sit atop the great peaks. The Perito Moreno Glacier and the Laguna de Los Tres, a picture-postcard mountain lake with the snowy backdrop of Fitz Roy peak, are the most visited sites.
Situated deep in Patagonia’s snow-capped vistas, on the southern shore of Lake Argentino, El Calafate has become a key stopover for travellers headed to nearby Los Glaciares National Park. This icy wonderland is best known as the home of spectacular Perito Moreno glacier – a massive, shifting ice cap composed of dozens of smaller glaciers. Take a glacier tour, a helicopter ride, or a 4x4 excursion; hike and boat to your heart’s content; or visit one of the traditional ‘ranchos’ (estancias) to learn more about local culture (another great spot for this is the Centro de Interpretacíon Historico). A wonderful selection of restaurants and boutiques adds appeal; make sure to try the ‘alfajores’ cookies. Drink vodka, watch a movie, and learn all about ice at the impressive Glaciarium.
Widely regarded world’s southernmost city, Ushuaia is a strikingly beautiful destination on the southern coastline of Tierra del Fuego Island, backed by mountains and facing onto Beagle channel. The city’s elegant commercial centre offers a variety of cultural and entertainment activities, while its natural location means that adventure enthusiasts are spoilt for choice, with kayaking, skiing, hiking and sailing all on offer. For a more serene excursion, boat cruises are a popular way to view the glacier off Ushuaia’s coast.
The world-famous Tierra del Fuego National Park is situated on the Argentine part of the island of Tierra del Fuego and was the first shoreline national park established in Argentina. The park is famous for its sublime views, fascinating history and unique environment. Featuring bright turquoise fjords, green forests close to the coast, and lush valleys created by parallel mountain ranges, the stunning scenery offers breathtaking views and extraordinary photographic opportunities, especially from the renowned lookout point at Lapataia Bay. History enthusiasts can see the ‘concheros’, circles where mollusks accumulated, showing that there were ancient yamanas aboriginal tribes living in the area hundreds of years ago (their main food was seafood). The remarkable Canadian Beavers can be seen from a distance along with their incredible dam systems, which have played a significant role in the environment.
Set at the southern tip of South America, Tierra del Fuego Province is a scenic province in the southernmost reaches of Argentina. Said to be one of the world’s final frontiers, this region boasts breathtaking scenery, incredible wildlife and rich cultural heritage. This corner of Patagonia provides endless activities and attractions for thrill-seekers and nature lovers. It boasts an array of natural wonders including ancient glaciers, untouched wilderness, national parks, pristine lakes, rivers and waterways. Don’t miss a visit to Ushuaia, the city set at the ‘end of the world’, which serves as the jumping-off point for expeditions to the Antarctic.
