Patagonia Tours & Holidays

Patagonia is a geographical region located at the southern tip of South America.

It spans the lower sections of Argentina and Chile and is governed by both countries.

You will need to organize your visa. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information.

Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date information specific to your nationality.

Check the Essential Trip Information section of the itinerary for more information.

Patagonia is much cooler than the rest of South America. With diverse terrain ranging from glaciers to mountains and coastlines, the region sees extreme variations in weather.

Average temperatures range from 9-18°C in summer and 0-6°C in winter, but sub-zero temperatures are common.

The weather can be unpredictable at any time of year, and it feels much cooler when there are strong winds.

Snow is possible towards the end of autumn (May), and continues into winter with heavy snowfall down south and in the mountains.

October to March (spring/summer) is considered to be the best time to visit Patagonia; this is when most of our trips run. During this period, daytime temperatures average up to 22°C, but it's a chilly 4°C at night.

Rain and strong winds are possible at any time of year and can make the temperature feel much cooler.

Tipping in Patagonia is common, but only when you’re satisfied with the service.

Aim for 10-15% of a bill at a restaurant or cafe as a general guide (if it’s not included already).

It’s also common to give hotel porters, drivers and other staff a small tip.

You will find wi-fi in most hotels, cafes and restaurants in large towns and cities, but it can be harder to find as you venture to more remote areas.

You may wish to buy a local SIM card if you want to stay in contact with folks at home, but a phone signal can still be patchy in remote areas.

You will find Western-style flushable toilets in Patagonia.

It is a good idea to carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitiser, as they’re not always provided.

Just note that while the toilets are modern, the plumbing isn’t and can clog easily, so you may see signs asking you not to flush toilet paper and use the bin provided instead.

ATMs are available in larger towns and cities but are less common in small villages or rural areas.

Make sure you have enough cash before leaving urban areas.

Argentina uses the Argentinean Peso, while Chile uses the Chilean Peso. It might also be worth bringing some US dollars.

Credit cards may not be accepted in small towns and rural areas.

Make sure to carry enough cash when visiting rural areas in case credit cards are not an option.

Please check your Essential Trip Information for a complete list of packing suggestions for your itinerary.

These are the basics you will need to bring for an active adventure in Patagonia:

• Closed-in, waterproof walking shoes/hiking boots

• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)

• Rucksack and day bag

• Reusable water bottle

• Thermal base layers

• Hiking clothing

• Waterproof/windproof jacket

• Head torch

• Towel

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. It's important to understand that each country you visit may have its own specific entry requirements, and some destinations mandate travel health insurance for all foreign travellers, regardless of their nationality.

We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation, but minimum coverage may differ from trip to trip, so make sure you check the Travel Insurance section in your Essential Trip Information. You will not be permitted to join the group until your leader has sighted your insurance policy number and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number, and these details will be recorded on the first day of your trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is an essential part of every journey.

For travellers who reside within the European Union, Switzerland or the USA, the requirement to purchase travel insurance cannot be compulsory. However, the purchase of travel insurance is still highly recommended, and travellers from these regions who decline travel insurance when travelling outside their home region must sign a Travel Insurance Waiver Form, recognising personal responsibility for emergency medical and repatriation costs should they arise.

Read more about travel insurance

We believe travel should be accessible to everyone. Although some destinations and itineraries may be more accessible than others, we'll do our best to accommodate your needs, make reasonable adjustments where possible or guide you toward the most suitable trips. Get in touch with our friendly adventure consultants to chat about your options.

Our Tailor-Made team can also help you plan a customised trip just for you.