south america

If you’re planning your trip to Patagonia, it can seem overwhelming to sift through all the trails and guides out there. So, today I’m sharing my top tips!

Before I begin today, be sure to check out this post on how to plan your time in Patagonia DIY-style. You’ll find all kinds of details there, from the logistics of crossing the Argentina-Chile border, what to do in each region and how to plan your route.

In the meantime, here are some very important tips to keep in mind during your life changing trip through beautiful Patagonia!

Hiking Tips

• It seems obvious, but be sure to figure out your route ahead of time. Make sure you’ve done your research on the intensity of the hikes you’re planning to do. You don’t want to bite off more than you can chew!
• When you sit down to plan your route, be sure to not only look into the duration and distance, but also the difficulty.
• Another seemingly obvious notion – but you will need good hiking boots. Not sneakers!
• If you plan to camp, plan accordingly that you have enough supplies. This goes for any time you’re trekking outdoors!
• Always make sure you give yourself enough time to get to your camp site before dark. If you’re feeling iffy about your timing, don’t chance it. Look into packing a light, packable flashlight.
• Always make sure to note the distance you’re planning to trek, and add extra time as a cushion for unexpected weather changes. The elements can change drastically and quickly!

What To Pack

• Temperatures can drop very low and vary between 5 – 70 degrees Fahrenheit in the course of a single day in Patagonia… so make sure you bring the right clothes.
• Layer clothing: a waterproof jacket and trekking boots are highly essential, as is sunscreen and a pair of quality sunglasses.
• Some other essentials I would recommend include silk liners under hiking pants, mittens, hat, scarf, long sleeve shirt, tank top, and a warm coat.
• If you are planning on camping, I would also suggest buying your equipment/gear/resources outside of Argentina, as they can get to be pretty pricey!

Snacks, Snacks, Snacks.

• Pack protein bars, fruit, multiple water bottles and/or iodine tablets to fill up empty bottles with nearby water source.
• A bagged lunch i.e. sandwich, chips, veggies, etc. will be your best friend during your daily hikes.
• Dried fruit and nuts are an essential to have with you at all times in Southern Patagonia (you’ll see natural markets to buy them in all over)!

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Looking for more tips and tricks for your trip to Chile, Argentina and Patagonia? Be sure to check out these posts!