How to Travel to Patagonia

Patagonia, the geographic region located on the southernmost tip of South America spanning Chile and Argentina, can be difficult to travel to. The region is mostly uninhabited and isolated by water and mountains on most sides. A travel agent specializing in South American vacations is best equipped to help book a trip to this area. The area is notable for its many species of birds and is home to several pre-Columbian archaeological sites.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Visas
• Passport
• Spanish educational materials
• Spanish dictionary
• Proof of hotel and flight reservations
• Photo ID
• Cash
• Satellite phone
• Waterproof clothing
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• High-SPF sunscreen
• Hiking boots

1. Contact a travel agent to discuss trip details. Chile and Argentina share Patagonia, so entering the region can be tricky depending on which country you'll be flying into. Apply for any necessary visas and have the travel agent book all flights and hotels.

2. Plan the duration of the trip. Crossing the region takes some forethought, as it often involves moving between Chile and Argentina. There are only three land-based border crossings in the region, so planning is key to make sure that you know where you're going, how to get there and that you have all necessary documentation (including a passport) to cross borders. As unpaved roads make car rental almost impossible in Patagonia, many hotels provide transportation to and from airports and land border crossings.

3. Learn Spanish by listening to tapes and studying books. Knowing even just enough to get by will make the trip go much more smoothly, especially when going through border and airport checkpoints.

4. Pack appropriately. Make sure to carry a Spanish dictionary, proof of flight and hotel reservations, a passport, a photo ID and cash. Cell phones do not work in Patagonia, so renting a satellite phone before leaving home will be necessary if you wish to keep in touch. As the region is rural, you'll also want to pack waterproof clothing, a hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen and hiking boots. There are not many places to purchase forgotten items, so it's important to pack at least the essentials.

5. Check in with the travel agent a couple weeks before departing to ensure that all reservations are in order. During the peak season, resorts and flights in Patagonia fill up incredibly quickly, so it's important to be prepared.

6. Arrive early to all transportation points during the trip. Missing a flight or ride could compromise the rest of the trip.

Resources

• Guide to Patagonia
• Patagonia Wikipedia page