5 Days in Patagonia

This 5-day Patagonia itinerary combines the best of El Calafate (glaciers, ancient ice, trekking) with the unique experience of Ushuaia (Beagle Channel, Tierra del Fuego, the end of the world). It is the most popular route for first-time Patagonia visitors.

Estimated cost (excluding international flights): USD 700-1,200 per person on a mid-range budget, including 3-star hotels with breakfast, meals, tours and the internal Calafate-Ushuaia flight.

Day 1: Arrive in El Calafate & Glaciarium

Arrive at El Calafate airport (FTE). Flight from Buenos Aires takes approximately 3 hours. After checking in, explore Avenida Libertador and visit the Glaciarium (museum USD 12, glaciobar USD 20 extra). Dinner: Patagonian lamb slow-roasted over embers (USD 15-25).

Day 2: Perito Moreno Glacier

The big day: full day at Los Glaciares National Park. Walk the kilometres of walkways facing the glacier's 5 km wide, 60 m high ice front. Witness spectacular calving events. Optional: mini-trekking on the glacier (USD 200, book weeks ahead). Tour with transfer from USD 35 + park entry USD 28.

Day 3: Todo Glaciares cruise or El Chalten

Option A: Todo Glaciares cruise (USD 120) visiting Upsala (Argentina's largest glacier) and Spegazzini (135 m high walls). 8 hours. Option B: Day trip to El Chalten (USD 85) for Fitz Roy viewpoint trekking. 12 hours.

Day 4: Fly to Ushuaia + Beagle Channel

Morning flight to Ushuaia (1 hour, from USD 80-150). Afternoon Beagle Channel cruise (from USD 45): sea lions, cormorants, Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse. Dinner: king crab (centolla, USD 25-40).

Day 5: Tierra del Fuego & departure

End of the World Train + Tierra del Fuego National Park (from USD 90). Walk to Lapataia Bay, the symbolic end of Ruta 3 and the "end of the world". Return flight.

Budget breakdown

Frequently asked questions