This 7-day Patagonia itinerary is the complete route: from the Andean forests and crystal lakes of Bariloche, through the ancient glaciers of El Calafate, to the end-of-the-world mystique of Ushuaia. It is the dream trip for any nature and adventure lover, and with 7 well-planned days you can experience the best of each destination without feeling rushed.
Estimated cost: USD 1,200-2,000 per person (excluding international flights), including 3-star hotels with breakfast, meals, tours and two internal flights.
Days 1-3: Bariloche
Day 1: Arrive at Bariloche airport (BRC). Explore Centro Civico, Calle Mitre chocolate shops (Mamuschka, Rapa Nui, Del Turista) and craft breweries (Berlina, Blest, Manush).
Day 2: Circuito Chico panoramic drive (from USD 28): Cerro Campanario viewpoint, Hotel Llao Llao, lakeside chapels. Optional: Colonia Suiza for traditional curanto lunch.
Day 3: Choose between the Route of the Seven Lakes (USD 72, 12 hours) or Victoria Island & Arrayanes Forest (USD 101, 6-7 hours).
Days 4-5: El Calafate
Day 4: Fly Bariloche to El Calafate (2 hours, from USD 100). Explore Avenida Libertador and visit the Glaciarium museum + ice bar (USD 12-27). Dinner: Patagonian lamb.
Day 5: The big day — Perito Moreno Glacier. Tour with transfer from USD 35 + park entry USD 28. Optional: mini-trekking on the glacier (USD 200, book weeks ahead).
Days 6-7: Ushuaia
Day 6: Fly El Calafate to Ushuaia (1 hour). Beagle Channel cruise (from USD 45): sea lions, cormorants, Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse. Dinner: king crab (centolla).
Day 7: End of the World Train + Tierra del Fuego National Park (from USD 90). Lapataia Bay, end of Route 3. Return flight.
Budget breakdown
Per person estimate (mid-range)
- Internal flights (2 legs): USD 200-350
- Accommodation (6 nights): USD 480-720
- Tours: USD 250-400
- Optional mini-trekking: USD 200
- Meals (7 days): USD 180-300
- Total (no international flights): USD 1,110-1,970
