Hiking in Patagonia in South America is a truly unique experience that belongs on any bucket list.
Although the hikes requiring the most effort offer the highest reward, in Patagonia, you will find a hike for you, no matter your level of experience.
This guide includes things to consider before hiking in Southern Patagonia and an overview of the main hikes you should consider doing if you're going there.
I organised the hikes by country, so that you can choose where to go and what hike you want to do there.
Things to know before hiking in Patagonia
Fees
The main hiking places in southern Patagonia are El Chalten in Argentina and Torres del Paine National Park in Chile.
From 2025, the entrance to Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina (El Chalten and El Calafate) will cost 45,000 pesos (approx. 45 USD) daily or 90,000 pesos (approx. 90 USD) for three days.
To enter Torres del Paine National Park in Chile, you must pay $32.400 (approx. 34 USD) CLP for up to 3 days and CLP 46.200 (approx. 48 USD) for over 3 days.
Download Data Trail in advance
It's important to note that you will most likely lose cell signal while hiking in Patagonia. Although hiking trails in both countries are well signed, I highly recommend downloading the trail information beforehand to avoid unnecessary detours. Most hikes are full-day hikes of 12+ miles (20+ kilometers). I recommend using All Trails Pro to access the trail details while you are offline.
Best time to hike in southern Patagonia
December, January, and February are the best months to explore Patagonia, as temperatures will be warm and you can enjoy the daylight for longer.
You can also enjoy the shoulder months of November and March, but the days will be shorter, so make sure you plan your hikes around daylight.
Argentinian Patagonia
As mentioned before, El Chalten is probably the best place to hike in Argentinian Patagonia. The start of all main hikes can be easily reached from downtown El Chalten.
Laguna de los Tres Hike (Fitz Roy Hike)
Hiking distance: 12.4 mi / 20.8 km
If you have only time for one hike, make it this one. On this hike, you will see the famous Fitz Roy mountain and the skyline that inspired the Patagonia brand logo. For more details, check out my complete guide here.
Laguna Torre Hike
Hiking distance: 11.4 mi / 18.3 km
On this hike, you can see the magnificent Cerro Torre. If you want a closer look at the Grande Glacier, extend this hike to the Mirador Maestri; the detour is only 2km extra one way. Read more about this hike here.
Los Condores Lookout Hike
Hiking distance: 2km
This is the easiest hike in El Chalten. It offers a great view over the mountain chain and the town.
Perito Moreno Glacier Hike
This hike starts in the Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, about 47.5 mi (76.5 km) from the town of El Calafate.
You will have different loops to choose from, varying in difficulty and duration.
You can also opt to walk through the wooden platforms, which will give you a fantastic view of the glacier from different angles, but you won't walk on the ice.
I highly recommend doing both on separate days or starting early in the morning to have enough time to enjoy them properly.
Chilean Patagonia
The Chilean Side of Patagonia feels somehow more raw, and it's easy to encounter wildlife like pumas and guanacos there. That's why it will also require more logistical planning, as to get to the start of the trails, you need to take the bus or drive your car.
The list below covers what people usually do as a 5-day/4-night trek called the W trek. These three day-hikes will allow you to see the most essential parts of the multi-day hike.
Base de Las Torres Lookout Hike (Torres del Paine Hike)
Hiking distance: 12.5 mi / 20.1 km
If you only have one day in the area, this is the hike you will want to do. Although the hike itself is not the most scenic, the famous Torres del Paine live up to the hype! If you want to learn more about this hike, read my complete guide.
British / French Lookout Hike
Hiking distance: 15.8 mi / 25.4km
For this day hike, you will have to take the ferry from the Pudeto Pier, turn to your right, and follow the signs. You can choose to stay at the French Lookout or go all the way to the British Lookout.
Be aware that if the sky is cloudy, the view at the British Lookout might not be the best. Don't hesitate to ask hikers on their way back if the visibility is good, and then decide whether to continue to the British Lookout or stay at the French Lookout.
Grey Glacier Lookout Hike
Hiking distance: 14.2 mi / 22.9 km
The start of this hike is similar to the previous one. You will take the ferry from the Pudeto Pier early in the morning. However, you will turn left this time once you get off the ferry.
