Planning a trip to Patagonia? Whether you’re aiming for the rugged beauty of Chilean Patagonia or the stunning landscapes of Argentine Patagonia, your travel method can significantly impact your experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best way to get to Patagonia based on your budget, time constraints, and destination.
Flying is the quickest and most convenient way to reach Patagonia. Here are the major airports:
In Chile:
Punta Arenas (PUQ)
Puerto Montt (PMC)
Puerto Natales (PNT)
Balmaceda (BBA)
In Argentina:
El Calafate (FTE)
Ushuaia (USH)
Bariloche (BRC)
How to get there: You can fly into these airports from major cities in South America, such as Santiago, in Chile, or Buenos Aires, in Argentina. Upon arrival, you can continue your journey by bus, taxi, or rental car to your final destination.
If you’re traveling with a guide or tour company like SouthQuest, private transfers from the airport to your hotel or final destination may be available, simplifying your journey and ensuring a smooth start to your adventure. That’s one of the best options to avoid complications with the local transit system, timing issues and unnecessary extra worries. If you choose to organize your trip alone, here are a few ways to get off the airport to reach the heart of Patagonia:
Taking a bus is a more affordable alternative to flying but it is considerably slower. Several bus companies operate in Patagonia. You can catch a bus from a major city in South America or from one of the Patagonian airports. Traveling by bus allows you to soak in the stunning scenery of Patagonia, but be prepared for a longer journey.
Renting a car is an excellent option for those who want to explore Patagonia independently. However, be aware that Patagonian roads can be long, winding, and sometimes remote with limited services.
You can rent a car in major South American cities or at Patagonian airports. When planning a road trip, consider the costs of gas, food, and lodging.
Other travel options include boats and ferries, though these are typically more limited and may not be available depending on your exact destination.
However you choose to travel the wilderness, Patagonia awaits with the adventure of a lifetime, and SouthQuest is ready to join you!
Co-founder, Naturalist Guide & Tour Leader
Ricardo Casarin has been leading tours in Brazil since 1998 and is one of Brazil’s most respected naturalist guides. Specializing in Natural History, Birdwatching, and Nature Photography tours, his expertise covers biomes such as the Pantanal, the Amazon, the Atlantic Rainforest, the Caatinga, and the Cerrado (the Brazilian Savanna). Ricardo also coordinates and leads tours through Chilean and Argentine Patagonia. He is co-author of the book “Tourism Guide in Natural Areas.”
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