There are destinations that hold a special place in our hearts, but haven’t yet made it into our Smart Travelling repertoire in the form of a guide. Nevertheless, we don’t want to keep these gems from you, so in this post, we’re taking you on a very special journey to an extraordinary destination: Patagonia.
Patagonia is a place that stretches the boundaries of imagination – snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and massive glaciers that flow into deep blue fjords. This region at the end of the world captivates with its stunning nature and a feeling of boundless freedom. Starting in Buenos Aires, we venture into remote expanses where Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city, opens the door to an adventure like no other. Here, we encounter endless steppes, thundering waterfalls, and windswept landscapes with an almost magical allure.
Whether it’s the iconic “W” track in Torres del Paine, encounters with condors on Cerro Torre, or a boat trip to the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier – Patagonia is a true paradise for nature lovers and adventurers. Each place has its own wild beauty and raw energy, giving you the sense of traveling in a world of myths and legends. Join us on this road trip by land and water, a journey that shows Patagonia is more than just a region – it’s a way of life. We start in Buenos Aires, then head to Ushuaia to board a ship to Chile, from there to Torres del Paine National Park, onward to El Calafate, and finally to the grand finale – El Chaltén and Fitz Roy.
Casa Lucía, Buenos Aires
Casa Lucía captures the essence of Buenos Aires – an elegant retreat in the iconic Recoleta district where “Old Soul, New Spirit” come together beautifully. Housed in a historic building that was once Latin America’s tallest, this restored piece of Argentinian architecture exudes a charm that keeps the spirit of past eras alive while embracing modern design. With its high ceilings, artful details, and light-filled spaces, Casa Lucía elegantly embodies the magic and essence of Buenos Aires.
The rooms blend warm wood with cool marble, creating a restful oasis – ideal for unwinding after exploring the city. For those who appreciate special views, the Suite Tower offers private terraces with sweeping views over Buenos Aires. Beyond the rooms, the spa invites guests to linger with its sleek 16-meter infinity pool, perfect for a moment of relaxation.
The hotel’s Cantina pays homage to Argentine traditions, where Chef Julian del Pino crafts classic dishes like asado from local ingredients, all accompanied by Argentina’s finest wines. Meanwhile, at the stylish Le Club Bacan, guests enjoy cocktails and small plates with DJ sets adding a sophisticated beat – Buenos Aires at its best.
The location couldn’t be better. The hotel is surrounded by Recoleta’s characterful streets, with highlights like the famous cemetery where legends like Eva Perón rest, the opulent Teatro Colón with its ballet and concerts, and chic cocktail spots like the secretive Florería Atlántico – ideal for an authentic encounter with the soul of Buenos Aires. Simply put, for anyone looking to dive into Buenos Aires for a few days, Casa Lucía is the perfect place to be.
Casa Lucía
Calle Arroyo 841, Buenos Aires, Argentina
From Ushuaia to Punta Arenas
With Australis, you’ll cruise through Patagonia’s untouched fjords and experience Tierra del Fuego in its most pristine form. The Stella Australis is no ordinary cruise ship; it’s an expedition vessel specially designed with panoramic windows and modern comforts – ideal for exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the Magellan Strait, Beagle Channel, and the legendary Cape Horn up close.
Daily guided Zodiac excursions bring you to Magellanic penguin colonies, hidden bays, and majestic glaciers. Knowledgeable guides offer fascinating insights into the region’s history, geology, and unique flora and fauna. After adventurous landings and hikes, you can unwind in the cozy lounge, sharing stories with fellow travelers. For those looking to reach otherwise inaccessible, magical places, Australis offers an unforgettable journey to the end of the world. This four-day voyage begins in Argentina, at the port of Ushuaia, and concludes at the port of Punta Arenas in Chile.
Australis Boat Trip (Argentina to Chile)
Eco Camp, Torres Del Paine
EcoCamp Patagonia is the ultimate retreat for adventurers eager to experience the spirit of Patagonia up close. As the first sustainable hotel in the region, the camp sets new standards in nature immersion and comfort with its iconic dome tents. Guests sleep in private domes with skylights, allowing breathtaking views of the starry sky right from bed. Designed with a strong focus on environmental sustainability, the camp features composting toilets and solar power to support most of its operations.
During the day, you can explore the park’s spectacular landscapes, whether on the legendary “W” trek, a relaxed hike, or a kayak tour among glaciers. EcoCamp’s friendly guides are true nature enthusiasts, eager to share their passion and insider tips on the region. Guests come from all around the world, making every dinner in the communal lounge an experience filled with fascinating stories and shared adventures. The food at EcoCamp is a highlight, prepared with fresh, local ingredients – offering some of the best dining in Torres del Paine, even rivaling high-end luxury hotels.
EcoCamp is where you can experience the boundless beauty of nature and unwind with fellow explorers. An unforgettable adventure awaits!
EcoCamp
Estancia Cerro Paine, Torres del Paine, Chile
Aguas Arriba Lodge, El Chalten / Fitz Roy
The Aguas Arriba Lodge is a secluded treasure nestled in a 700-hectare nature reserve on the edge of Los Glaciares National Park. Even the journey here is an adventure: accessible only by boat or a three-hour hike past glaciers, waterfalls, and nesting condors, guests arrive via a short boat ride across Lago del Desierto to a breathtaking scene. The lodge stands with an unobstructed view of the majestic Fitz Roy and Vespignani Glacier.
Ivor and Pato, the warm and welcoming owners, have created a little paradise that feels like home, far from everything. Each morning begins with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and homemade bread, followed by explorations on the most stunning trails with personal guides – whether hiking through wild landscapes, fly fishing, or enjoying yoga in the custom-built Yoga Barn amid the forest. The lodge has six thoughtfully designed rooms, crafted from local wood and featuring large windows that showcase endless views of the surroundings.
After a day filled with experiences, guests return to a crackling fireplace to share stories before enjoying homemade dishes – from hearty soups to grilled Argentine steak. More than just a retreat, Aguas Arriba Lodge is a place of serenity and inspiration, where the beauty and power of Patagonia’s nature come alive in a unique, personal atmosphere.
Aguas Arriba Lodge
Ruta Provincial 23km 130, El Chalten, Santa Cruz, Agentina
Explora Salto Chico, Torres Del Paine
The Explora Salto Chico is no ordinary hotel – it is the gateway to Patagonia’s wild heart, a luxurious base camp for those who want to be impressed by nature without compromising on style. The location? Like a ship at anchor, the Explora blends harmoniously into the landscape, right on the banks of the turquoise-blue Pehoé Lake, surrounded by glaciers and the iconic Paine massif. In the rooms, huge panoramic windows open up to perhaps the most breathtaking view of the Torres del Paine National Park imaginable, revealing new facets every season. A sight that definitely justifies the price.
The architecture and design of the Explora are a statement of clear forms and natural materials that draw the eye to the essentials – the magnificent nature outside. The exclusive spa, with outdoor jacuzzis and a sauna directly on the Paine River, provides the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. The guides are professionals who plan each tour precisely and take each guest in small groups to places that no one else can reach.Whether you want to explore Patagonia on foot, on horseback, in a jeep or simply from the comfort of your hotel bed, the Explora is a perfect hideaway where you can enjoy exactly that from the moment you check in to the last moment you check out. An ideal balance of adventure and relaxation.
Explora Salto Chico
Torres del Paine, Magallanes y la Antártica, Chile
Estancia Nibepo Aike, Santa Cruz / Calafate
Situated in the middle of wild Patagonia, the Estancia Nibepo Aike is a real oasis for nature lovers. Those who come here are immersed in a world where time seems to stand still. Surrounded by unspoilt countryside, just an hour’s drive on a dusty track from El Calafate, the estancia has been offering its guests an authentic Patagonian feeling for over 100 years – and in style.
The historic main building, a charming house with just 10 rooms, is bursting with cosiness with open fires and a touch of rustic elegance. As a guest, you can enjoy a wonderfully uncomplicated atmosphere here, in which the traditions of real Patagonian life are palpable. From riding excursions, where you and the gaucho round up the sheep for the night, to hikes through endless expanses.
But there is not only plenty to experience outdoors, the estancia also spoils its guests with traditional dishes – hearty home cooking, freshly grilled meat or homemade empanadas, prepared with grandmother’s recipes.
For those who want to experience pure, authentic Patagonia, Nibepo Aike is the perfect choice for one or two nights. Here, everyday life stays away and there is only the vastness, the silence and an unforgettable closeness to nature. Incidentally, it can be ideally combined with a visit to the majestic Perito Moreno Glacier, which is around an hour’s drive away.
Estancia Nibepo Aike
Santa Cruz / Calafate, Argentina
