Backpacking Guide for Patagonia

Why Patagonia is a Backpacker’s Dream

The Allure of the End of the World

Patagonia exists more as a legend than a location in the minds of many travelers. Situated at the southern tip of South America, it’s a region that truly feels like the edge of the map. This is not a land of gentle, rolling hills; it is a raw, primeval wilderness defined by dramatic, large-scale landscapes. The allure lies in its untamed nature, where vast stretches of land remain largely untouched by human development. For a backpacker, this translates into an unparalleled sense of discovery and solitude.

The scenery here is a powerful combination of nature’s most formidable elements. Towering granite spires like Fitz Roy and the towers of Paine pierce the sky, while colossal glaciers, such as Perito Moreno, audibly calve into turquoise lakes. These elements aren’t isolated attractions; they form a cohesive, breathtaking environment. One day you might be hiking through a southern beech forest, the next you’re skirting a glacial lagoon, all under the watch of soaring condors. This constant immersion in a wild, elemental world is what draws adventurers to this remote corner of the globe.

What to Expect: A Land of Extremes

To appreciate Patagonia, one must respect its formidable character. The first thing to understand is the weather, particularly the wind. It is a relentless, powerful force that shapes the land and dictates your daily plans. It’s not uncommon to experience brilliant sunshine, sudden rain, and powerful gusts all within a few hours. This unpredictability is not a flaw; it is an essential part of the Patagonian experience, demanding flexibility and proper preparation.

The sheer scale of the region also presents a logistical challenge. Distances between key trekking hubs like El Chaltén in Argentina and Torres del Paine National Park in Chile are vast, requiring long bus journeys or carefully planned flights. Spontaneity is possible, but a well-thought-out itinerary is essential to make the most of your time. This planning, however, is part of the adventure itself. Patagonia rewards those who come prepared with a diverse range of experiences, from demanding multi-day circuits like the O Trek to world-class day hikes that are easily accessible from trail towns, allowing backpackers of various experience levels to find their own challenge.

Understanding the Lay of the Land: Patagonia 101

Patagonia is not a single country but a vast geographical region at the southern end of South America, shared by Argentina and Chile. While united by a spirit of wild, untamed nature, each side of the Andes offers a distinct character, landscape, and travel experience. Understanding these nuances is the first step in planning a successful backpacking adventure.

Argentine vs. Chilean Patagonia

Choosing between the Argentine and Chilean sides, or deciding how to combine them, is a fundamental part of crafting your itinerary. While the border is just a line on a map, the differences on the ground are significant.

Argentine Patagonia is often characterized by its vast, arid steppes giving way to the dramatic, sharp peaks of the Andes. The infrastructure for tourism is well-developed in key hubs. This side is home to some of the most iconic and accessible granite spires in the world.

• Key Highlights: The Fitz Roy Massif in El Chaltén, known as Argentina’s National Trekking Capital, and the colossal, ever-advancing Perito Moreno Glacier near El Calafate.
• The Vibe: Towns like El Chaltén are built for hikers, with world-class trails starting directly from the edge of town, often free of park fees. It offers a certain convenience and a vibrant trekking community.

Chilean Patagonia feels greener, wetter, and more ruggedly wild. Its landscape is a chaotic tapestry of temperate rainforests, glacial-carved fjords, turquoise lakes, and immense ice fields. The famous Carretera Austral highway is the main artery through its remote northern section.

• Key Highlights: The world-renowned Torres del Paine National Park with its granite towers and multi-day treks, and the legendary, off-the-beaten-path road trip along the Carretera Austral.
• The Vibe: This side often feels more remote. Parks like Torres del Paine require meticulous planning and booking, while exploring the Carretera Austral demands flexibility and a true sense of adventure.

Most backpackers on a longer trip will experience both. Border crossings are straightforward but can be slow, especially in remote areas. The most common crossings for backpackers are between Puerto Natales (Chile) and El Calafate (Argentina), or via the more adventurous O’Higgins/San Martín Lake crossing near El Chaltén. Be aware that you cannot take fresh fruit, vegetables, or animal products across the border, and your bags will likely be checked.

Decoding the Seasons: When to Go

Patagonia’s weather is famously fickle, but choosing the right season dramatically impacts your experience, from trail accessibility to crowd levels. The “best” time to go depends entirely on your priorities.

Summer (December – February)

This is the peak season, offering the most stable conditions for trekking and the best chance of clear, sunny days.

• Pros: The weather is at its warmest and most reliable. Daylight hours are incredibly long, allowing for extended hikes. All trails, transportation services, and visitor facilities are fully operational.
• Cons: This is when Patagonia is most crowded. Popular trails can be busy, and accommodations—especially campsites and refugios in Torres del Paine—must be booked six months or more in advance. Prices for flights, buses, and lodging are at their highest.

Shoulder Seasons (October – November & March – April)

For many, the shoulder months represent the perfect balance of manageable weather and fewer crowds.

• Pros: You’ll share the trails with far fewer people. Prices are generally lower, and booking is less competitive. The spring (October-November) brings blooming wildflowers, while the autumn (March-April) showcases spectacular fall colors, particularly the brilliant red foliage of the lenga trees.
• Cons: The weather is a gamble. You should be prepared for everything, including cold winds, rain, and even snow at higher elevations. Some bus routes may run on a reduced schedule, and certain seasonal businesses or park facilities might be closed at the very beginning or end of the season.

Winter (May – September)

Winter in Patagonia is a serious undertaking and is not recommended for the average backpacker. It is the domain of the self-sufficient and highly experienced.

• Pros: You will find true solitude. The landscapes are transformed by a blanket of snow, offering a stark and profound beauty that few ever witness.
• Cons: This season is defined by extreme weather, with severe cold, high winds, and heavy snowfall. The vast majority of hiking trails, refugios, and national park services are closed. Public transport is minimal. Trekking in winter here requires specialized mountaineering gear, avalanche safety knowledge, and significant experience in harsh winter conditions. It should not be attempted otherwise.

Pre-Trip Planning: Your Backpacking Blueprint

Patagonia’s vastness can feel overwhelming, but a solid plan is your best tool for navigating its wild landscapes. Success here is less about spontaneity and more about smart preparation. This section will guide you through the essential decisions of when to go, how long to stay, and how to manage your budget and paperwork, turning a daunting challenge into a clear, achievable adventure.

Crafting Your Itinerary: How Much Time Do You Need?

The sheer scale of Patagonia means that travel days are long and distances are significant. The amount of time you have will be the single biggest factor shaping your trip. Here’s a realistic breakdown of what you can achieve with different timeframes.

• 10-14 Days: The “Greatest Hits”
  With two weeks, you can experience one of Patagonia’s crown jewels thoroughly. This is not enough time to see both the Argentine and Chilean highlights without feeling incredibly rushed. You’ll need to choose: either focus on Chile for Torres del Paine‘s W Trek and the surrounding area of Puerto Natales, or head to Argentina to explore the trekking capital of El Chaltén and the Perito Moreno Glacier near El Calafate. This timeframe is perfect for a concentrated, high-impact adventure.
• 3-4 Weeks: The Classic Combination
  This is the ideal duration for a first-time backpacker to Patagonia. A three to four-week trip allows you to comfortably visit the iconic highlights on both sides of the border. You can complete a multi-day trek in Torres del Paine, cross into Argentina to see the Perito Moreno Glacier, and spend several days hiking the world-class trails around El Chaltén. This itinerary provides a comprehensive taste of what makes the region so legendary.
• 1 Month+: A Deeper Exploration
  With a month or more, Patagonia truly opens up. Beyond the classic circuit, you can venture into more remote territories. This is enough time to travel the fabled Carretera Austral (Route 7) in Chile, explore the rugged landscapes of Tierra del Fuego and Ushuaia, or dedicate more time to lesser-known parks and trails. This extended timeframe allows for greater flexibility, patience for weather delays, and the chance to truly immerse yourself in the region’s wild spirit.

Budgeting for Patagonia

While Patagonia has a reputation for being expensive, a backpacking trip is entirely manageable with careful planning. Your biggest expenses will be accommodation, park fees, and transportation. Cooking your own meals is the most effective way to keep daily costs down.

Here is a typical breakdown for a budget backpacker:

• Accommodation: Hostels in towns like Puerto Natales or El Chaltén typically cost $20-30 USD per night for a dorm bed. Camping is the most budget-friendly option. Campsites on multi-day treks (like in Torres del Paine) must be booked and paid for, but free designated campsites exist in some areas.
• Food: Supermarkets are your best friend. Budget around $15-20 USD per day if you cook all your own meals (pasta, rice, oats, and dehydrated soups are trail staples). Eating out at a simple restaurant will cost at least $15-25 USD for a main course.
• Transportation: Long-distance buses are the primary mode of transport and are generally comfortable and reliable. A major route, like from Puerto Natales to El Calafate, can cost between $30-40 USD.
• Activities & Park Fees: This is a significant cost. For example, the entrance fee for Torres del Paine National Park can be around $49 USD. Guided activities like ice trekking on a glacier can cost $150 USD or more. Fortunately, many of the best hikes, especially around El Chaltén, are free.

A realistic daily budget for a backpacker primarily camping and self-catering is between $50-70 USD per day. This covers food, lodging, transport, and park fees, but excludes major one-off expenses like guided tours or flights.

Visas, Insurance, and Money

Navigating the practicalities before you go will ensure a smooth journey. Pay close attention to these three critical areas.

• Visas: For many nationalities, including citizens of the USA, UK, EU, Australia, and Canada, tourist visas are not required for stays of up to 90 days in either Chile or Argentina. However, entry requirements can change. Always check the official consulate or embassy website for your specific nationality well before your trip.
• Travel Insurance: This is absolutely non-negotiable. Standard travel insurance is not sufficient. You must have a policy that specifically covers high-altitude trekking (check the maximum elevation) and, most importantly, emergency medical evacuation. Given the remoteness of the trails and the potential for accidents or sudden weather changes, being airlifted to a proper medical facility could be a necessity. Do not travel to Patagonia without it.
• Currency and Money: You will be dealing with two different currencies: the Chilean Peso (CLP) and the Argentine Peso (ARS). Credit cards are widely accepted in larger towns and for booking buses or tours online. However, cash is essential for smaller shops, some hostels, and in more remote areas. It’s wise to withdraw cash from ATMs in larger towns like Punta Arenas, Puerto Natales, or El Calafate. Always carry a mix of cash and cards, and inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues.

Patagonia’s Legendary Hikes and Regions

Patagonia is not a single destination but a vast mosaic of distinct regions, each offering a unique trekking experience. From the world-famous granite spires of Chile to the expansive glaciers of Argentina, knowing where to focus your time is the first step in planning an unforgettable adventure. This guide breaks down the most iconic areas, legendary treks, and essential sights for backpackers.

Chilean Patagonia: Granite Spires and Glacial Fjords

The Chilean side of Patagonia is defined by its dramatic, tooth-like mountains, immense ice fields, and a labyrinth of fjords and channels. It’s home to some of the most sought-after multi-day treks on the planet, centered around its crown jewel, Torres del Paine National Park.

Torres del Paine National Park: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this park is the reason many backpackers come to Patagonia. Its trails weave through a landscape of unbelievable beauty, dominated by the iconic granite peaks of the Paine Massif.

The W Trek: A 4-5 Day Classic

The W Trek is arguably South America’s most famous multi-day hike. Its name comes from the shape of the route, which winds up and down three valleys, hitting the park’s major highlights. It’s a challenging but immensely rewarding experience, typically hiked from east to west or west to east.

• Base Las Torres: The trek’s most iconic viewpoint. A demanding uphill hike leads to a glacial lake at the foot of the three granite towers (Torres) that give the park its name.
• French Valley (Valle del Francés): A stunning amphitheater of granite walls and hanging glaciers. You’ll hike surrounded by the sounds of distant avalanches calving off the Paine Grande mountain.
• Grey Glacier (Glaciar Grey): A massive river of ice flowing from the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. Viewpoints along the trail offer breathtaking panoramas of the glacier’s blue-tinged crevasses and the icebergs floating in Lago Grey.

The O Circuit: A 8-10 Day Challenging Loop

For those with more time and trekking experience, the O Circuit offers a more complete and immersive Torres del Paine adventure. This route incorporates the entire W Trek but adds a remote and far less crowded “back side.” It’s a full circumnavigation of the Paine Massif, requiring trekkers to be more self-sufficient. The highlight is crossing the challenging John Gardner Pass, which provides an awe-inspiring, top-down view of the vast Grey Glacier. This trek is for seasoned backpackers looking for solitude and a true wilderness challenge.

Booking Refugios and Campsites

This cannot be stressed enough: booking your accommodation inside Torres del Paine is absolutely critical and must be done far in advance. During the high season (December-February), it is not an exaggeration to say that campsites and dorm beds in refugios (mountain huts) sell out 6 to 9 months ahead of time. You cannot enter the park to do a multi-day trek without proof of reservations for every single night. Planning is complicated by the fact that two different companies (Las Torres Patagonia and Vertice Patagonia) manage the sites, so you will likely need to book on two separate websites to piece together your itinerary.

The Carretera Austral: Further north, the legendary Carretera Austral (Route 7) offers a different kind of Patagonian experience. This is the ultimate road trip for the adventurous backpacker, a mostly-unpaved highway cutting through 1,240 kilometers of raw, untamed wilderness. It’s a region of temperate rainforests, turquoise rivers, and hanging glaciers. For hikers, key stops include:

• Cerro Castillo National Park: Often called the “new Torres del Paine,” this park offers a challenging multi-day circuit around the jagged Cerro Castillo peak, with far fewer crowds.
• Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park: A pristine wilderness of Valdivian temperate rainforest, volcanoes, and fjords, offering a variety of excellent day hikes.

Traveling the Carretera Austral requires patience and flexibility, as bus schedules can be infrequent, making hitchhiking a popular and viable option.

Argentine Patagonia: Jagged Peaks and Giant Glaciers

Across the border, Argentine Patagonia feels more arid and expansive. The landscape is dominated by the Fitz Roy Massif and the colossal glaciers flowing from the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. The infrastructure here is wonderfully backpacker-friendly, especially in its trekking hub.

El Chaltén: Argentina’s National Trekking Capital: This small, laid-back mountain town is a hiker’s paradise. Its biggest advantage is that the trailheads for world-class hikes begin right at the edge of town. There are no park entrance fees for the main trails, and the network is incredibly well-marked and maintained, making it perfect for independent trekkers.

Laguna de los Tres (Fitz Roy Trek)

This is the iconic day hike in El Chaltén and a must-do for every visitor. The trail leads through beautiful forests and valleys before a notoriously steep, one-hour final ascent. The reward is one of the most magnificent mountain views on Earth: the jagged spires of Mount Fitz Roy towering over the pristine, turquoise water of Laguna de los Tres.

Laguna Torre (Cerro Torre Trek)

Almost as classic as the Fitz Roy trek, the hike to Laguna Torre is generally flatter and less strenuous. It follows the Fitz Roy River valley to a glacial lake where small icebergs bob at the base of the legendary, needle-like peak of Cerro Torre. On a clear day, the view is simply breathtaking.

El Calafate & Perito Moreno Glacier: While El Chaltén is for trekking, the nearby town of El Calafate is the gateway to the glaciers. The main attraction is the spectacular Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the few glaciers in the world that is still advancing. You can easily visit it independently by taking a public bus from El Calafate. A well-designed network of boardwalks offers incredible views of the glacier’s 70-meter-high face. Listening to the thunderous crack and watching massive chunks of ice calve into the lake is an unforgettable experience. For a closer look, you can book boat tours or even guided ice-trekking excursions directly on the glacier’s surface.

Tierra del Fuego: Trekking at the World’s End

At the southernmost tip of the continent lies Tierra del Fuego, an archipelago with a mystical, end-of-the-world atmosphere. The main hub is Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city, nestled between the Beagle Channel and the dramatic Martial mountain range. The hiking here is characterized by subpolar forests, peat bogs, and coastal scenery. Popular treks include the hike to Laguna Esmeralda, a stunning green lake set in a high mountain valley, and exploring the trails of Tierra del Fuego National Park, where you can hike the coastal Senda Costera and visit the symbolic end of the Pan-American Highway at Lapataia Bay.

Gearing Up: The Ultimate Patagonia Packing List

Packing for Patagonia is an exercise in preparation and precision. The region’s notoriously fickle weather demands gear that is reliable, versatile, and functional. Success on the trail isn’t about having the most expensive equipment, but the most appropriate. Focus on quality pieces that will protect you from wind, rain, and cold, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the landscape.

The Non-Negotiables: Your Big Three

These three items form the foundation of your mobile home in the wilderness. They are your primary sources of comfort and safety, and investing in quality here is paramount.

• Backpack: A pack with a 50-70 liter capacity is ideal for multi-day treks, providing enough space for your tent, sleeping system, food, and layers. Look for a durable model with an adjustable harness for a comfortable fit and, crucially, a high-quality, waterproof rain cover.
• Tent: The Patagonian wind is legendary, and your tent is your first line of defense. A 3-4 season, freestanding tent is essential. Its robust pole structure is designed to flex under powerful gusts rather than snap, providing a secure shelter when the weather turns.
• Sleeping System: Nights can be cold, even in the summer. A sleeping bag with a comfort rating of 0°C (32°F) is a reliable choice for most trekkers. Pair it with an insulated sleeping pad (with a good R-value) to prevent heat loss to the cold ground, ensuring a restorative night’s sleep.

The Layering System is Key

The ability to adapt to changing conditions within a single hour is the secret to comfort in Patagonia. A layering system allows you to regulate your body temperature by adding or removing items as you hike or as the weather shifts.

• Base Layer: Worn next to your skin, this layer’s job is to wick moisture away to keep you dry. Choose materials like merino wool or synthetics (polyester). Avoid cotton, as it retains moisture and will make you cold.
• Mid Layer: This is your insulation layer. A fleece jacket or a lightweight down or synthetic puffy jacket provides warmth by trapping air. It’s perfect for wearing during chilly mornings or rest stops.
• Outer Layer: Your shield against the elements. A high-quality waterproof and windproof hardshell jacket and pants are non-negotiable. Ensure they are breathable (Gore-Tex or similar) to allow perspiration to escape, keeping you dry from the inside out.

Footwear and Foot Care

Your feet are your most valuable asset on the trail. Protecting them is essential for a successful and enjoyable trek.

• Hiking Boots: Select a pair of waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support. Most importantly, they must be well broken-in before your trip to prevent painful blisters. Miles of comfortable wear at home will translate to happy feet on the trail.
• Camp Shoes: After a long day of hiking, freeing your feet is a simple but profound pleasure. Pack a pair of lightweight sandals, crocs, or sneakers to wear around the campsite or in the refugios.
• Hiking Socks: Pack several pairs of merino wool hiking socks. They provide excellent cushioning, wick moisture effectively, and are naturally odor-resistant, a significant benefit on a multi-day trek.

Other Essential Gear Checklist

Beyond the major items, these smaller pieces of gear provide crucial support for cooking, navigation, and safety on the trail.

• Cooking: A compact stove, fuel canister, a small pot, and basic utensils are all you need. Dehydrated meals are lightweight and easy to prepare after a long day.
• Navigation: Do not rely on cell service. A dedicated GPS device or your phone equipped with downloaded offline maps (using apps like Maps.me or Gaia GPS) is critical. A power bank is necessary to keep your electronics charged.
• Safety: Carry a well-stocked first-aid kit with blister treatment, pain relievers, and bandages. A headlamp with extra batteries is essential for navigating in the dark, and a water filter or purification tablets will ensure you have safe drinking water from streams.
• Miscellaneous: Trekking poles are highly recommended to save your knees on steep ascents and descents and to provide stability in high winds. The Patagonian sun is strong, so pack sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and high-SPF sunscreen. Don’t forget your personal toiletries.

On-the-Ground Logistics and Pro Tips

Once your boots are on the ground, navigating Patagonia’s vast landscapes becomes the next great adventure. From crisscrossing the Andes by bus to finding a cozy bunk after a long trek, understanding the local logistics is key to a smooth and successful trip. Here’s how to handle the essentials.

Getting Around Patagonia

Patagonia is immense, and transportation requires planning. While the journey is part of the experience, you’ll want to be efficient with your time. These are the primary ways backpackers get from one epic landscape to the next.

• Long-Distance Buses: This is the backbone of Patagonian travel. Comfortable and reliable coach buses connect all major towns and trailheads, from Puerto Natales to El Chaltén and beyond. Companies like Bus-Sur, Marga Taqsa, and Chaltén Travel are popular choices. During peak season, it is essential to book popular routes (like El Calafate to El Chaltén or Puerto Natales to El Calafate) several days in advance, as they frequently sell out.
• Hitchhiking (Haciendo Dedo): A time-honored tradition in this part of the world, hitchhiking is a common and generally safe way to get around, particularly along the Carretera Austral in Chile. It requires a great deal of patience, as traffic can be sparse, and a flexible schedule. A sign indicating your destination and a friendly smile can go a long way.
• Internal Flights: To cover the vast distances between northern and southern hubs or to reach the remote city of Ushuaia, flying is the only practical option. Key airports for backpackers include Punta Arenas (PUQ), El Calafate (FTE), and Ushuaia (USH). Booking these flights well in advance will secure the most reasonable fares.

Accommodation for Backpackers

Whether you crave the camaraderie of a shared dorm or the solitude of a tent under the stars, Patagonia offers accommodation to suit every style of traveler. Your choice will largely depend on whether you are in town or out on the trail.

• Hostels: The trekking hubs of Puerto Natales, El Chaltén, and El Calafate are filled with excellent hostels. These are more than just a place to sleep; they are social centers where you can meet fellow hikers, exchange tips, find trekking partners, and use communal kitchens to prepare trail meals. Many also offer gear rentals and luggage storage.
• Camping: Camping is integral to the Patagonian trekking experience. There are generally two types:
  • Paid Campsites: These are standard within national parks like Torres del Paine. They offer basic facilities such as toilets and a cooking shelter. In Torres del Paine, these must be booked months in advance and are operated by private companies alongside park-run sites.
  • Free/Wild Camping: In areas like El Chaltén, designated free campsites (such as Poincenot or De Agostini) are available along the trails. True wild camping is permitted in some remote regions but is strictly prohibited in others to protect fragile ecosystems. Always follow local regulations and Leave No Trace principles.

Food, Water, and Staying Fueled

Proper nutrition and hydration are critical for tackling long days on the trail. Planning your food strategy before you leave town will save you money and ensure you have the energy you need.

Supermarkets in the main towns are well-stocked for trail food. Focus on lightweight, calorie-dense, and easy-to-cook meals. Staples for any Patagonian trekker’s food bag include:

• Instant oats or porridge for breakfast.
• Pasta, couscous, or instant rice for dinner.
• Dehydrated soup packets to add flavor and warmth.
• Hard cheese, salami, and tortillas for durable lunches.
• Nuts, dried fruit, chocolate, and granola bars for high-energy snacks.

A common question revolves around water safety. The water in Patagonian mountain streams, flowing directly from glaciers and snowmelt, is famously pure and generally safe to drink. However, it is always a wise precaution to carry a water filter or purification tablets. This is especially true for water sources at lower elevations, downstream from popular campsites, or in areas with livestock to eliminate the risk of contamination.

Staying Safe and Trekking Responsibly

Patagonia’s wildness is its greatest appeal, but it also demands respect. A successful trip is not just about seeing the sights; it’s about navigating the challenges safely and leaving this pristine environment untouched for those who follow. Adhering to a few key principles will ensure both your well-being and the preservation of the wilderness. For more on the region’s unique character, explore Patagonia’s history.

Respect the Notoriously Fierce Weather

The single most important variable in Patagonia is the weather. The infamous wind can gust with enough force to knock you off your feet, and a sunny morning can turn into a blizzard by afternoon. Flexibility and preparation are not optional. For those planning demanding hikes, understanding how to get fit for Patagonia is crucial.

Always check the most recent weather forecast before setting out, which you can usually find at park ranger stations, visitor centers, or your hostel. However, treat forecasts as an educated guess, not a guarantee. The best tool you have is your own observation of the sky and conditions. Be prepared to change your plans at a moment’s notice. Turning back or waiting out a storm in your tent for a day is a sign of an experienced trekker, not a failed attempt. Your itinerary should be a guide, not a rigid contract.

Pitching a tent in high winds can be a serious challenge. To avoid having your shelter become a kite, follow these steps:

• Find a sheltered spot and orient correctly. Look for natural windbreaks like a cluster of boulders or a dip in the terrain. Before unpacking, orient the tent so its narrowest, most aerodynamic end faces directly into the wind.
• Stake the floor down first. Before you even think about poles, firmly stake down the corners of the tent body or footprint. This anchors it to the ground. If the ground is too rocky, use heavy rocks to anchor the stake-out points.
• Use all your guylines. Those extra ropes that come with your tent are critical for stability. Stake them out tautly, creating tension that supports the poles and prevents the fabric from violently flapping, which can damage the tent and keep you awake all night.

Wildlife and Nature

One of the great joys of trekking in Patagonia is the chance to see its unique fauna in a natural habitat. You are almost certain to encounter herds of guanacos, the wild relatives of llamas, grazing on the plains. Keep an eye on the sky for the immense wingspan of the Andean condor soaring on thermal currents. You may also spot grey foxes, armadillos, and a vast array of birdlife.

The elusive puma also calls these mountains home. While sightings are extremely rare and encounters are even rarer, it’s wise to practice basic safety. Avoid hiking alone at dawn or dusk, when pumas are most active. If you are fortunate enough to see one from a distance, do not approach it. In the highly unlikely event of a close encounter, do not run. Make yourself look as large as possible, make firm, loud noises, and back away slowly while maintaining eye contact.

Leave No Trace Ethics

The future of Patagonia’s wilderness depends on the actions of every visitor. The “Leave No Trace” principles are the universal code of conduct for trekking responsibly. For tips on navigating this vast country, check out our comprehensive Argentina travel guide.

• Pack It In, Pack It Out: This is the cardinal rule. Absolutely everything you bring into the park must leave with you. This includes all food wrappers, packaging, and even organic waste like fruit peels and nut shells. They decompose very slowly in this environment and can be harmful to wildlife.
• Dispose of Waste Properly: In areas without toilets, human waste must be buried. Dig a cathole 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) deep, at least 70 meters (200 feet) away from any water source, trail, or campsite. Cover and disguise the cathole when finished. Always pack out used toilet paper and hygiene products in a sealed bag.
• Respect Wildlife and the Environment: Observe animals from a distance and never feed them. Stay on the marked trails to prevent erosion and protect the fragile, slow-growing alpine vegetation. Respect all trail closures and signage; they are there for your safety and to allow sensitive areas to recover.