While trekking in Patagonia, each independent area you go to will show you a backdrop that is unique in its own way. Famous among hikers all around the world, this region will spellbind you instantly.
Know that ...
... trekking in Patagonia involves climbing mountains which are 1900-2000 meters or more in height. Patagonia is a region in southern part of South America. It comes under the jurisdiction of both, Chile and Argentina. It comprises the southernmost portion of the Andes mountains to the west and south, and plateaus and low plains to the east. Endowed with an abundance of nature's bounty, Patagonia is nothing short of a traveler's delight. Trekking in this region is a great way of exploring this mystical area. In this article, we'll take you through a virtual tour of the best hiking trails in this region.
Independent Trekking Areas in Patagonia
Lake District
This beautiful northern section of Patagonian Andes comprises thick forests, snow-capped volcanoes, and lochs straddling the Chile-Argentina border. It is one of the best areas for hiking in Patagonia because it is yet to be explored exhaustively. This area boasts of short hikes, backpacking trips, and some fabulous areas for mountain biking. All this through vast, unexplored, and untouched forests. In addition to this, there is no dearth of accommodation options here. Also, there is an opportunity to check out volcanoes and indulge in river rafting.
Otto Meiling Refuge
Located on Mount Tronador, this is one section you must consider if you want a good trekking experience. Once here, you can either do an independent trek, or opt for a trekking organization and local guides. This trek spans two days and a night. The mountain is a bit different from other mountains in Bariloche, a city in the province of Rio Negro, at the foothills of Andes. It is the highest in the Andes peaks and also has a number of glaciers. You can reach here through a forest, in the first part of the trek and then follow a range of volcanic rocks with great views of glaciers and waterfalls.
Futaleufú River Valley
This trekking zone near Chile offers a fabulous array of geographical forms. It has everything, from lakes to snow-capped mountains and seems more like an experience of the wilderness. These treks are around valleys, lakes, and over high mountain passes. What is rare and unique about this aspect of trekking in Patagonia is the fact that they still include routes used by locals for going to isolated settlements.
Torres del Paine National Park
This park lies in the southernmost part of Chilean Patagonia and has been declared as a biosphere reserve by UNESCO in 1978 and is also a World Heritage Site. Caving glaciers, alpine lakes, cascading rivers, and waterfalls adorn this place. It is rich in wildlife and has a wide range of thriving ecosystems. Another thing which gives this place an advantage over the rest is the duration of daylight, especially during high season―January and February. During these months, you can experience daylight for as long as 20 hours. This fact makes the region perfect for hiking and trekking.
While these were the best, other areas in the region such as the waterfall on the Rio Fuy, Los Glaciares National Park, Mount Fitz Roy, and Laguna Negra. Whatever route you take, trekking in Patagonia is sure to give you a breathtaking view of the Andes.
