Where are the best sights in Patagonia?

Torres del Paine mountains, Patagonia, Chile

With only one inhabitant per square kilometre, Patagonia is one of South America’s most sought after destinations for contemporary travellers looking to get off the beaten path.

We’re also looking to get off the beaten path since we spilt coffee all over everyone on the walkway this morning because we were running considerably late for work.

Fridays, am I right?

But it isn’t surprising that so many are flocking to South America, as more travellers are searching for real and authentic experiences.

South America saw one of the world’s biggest increases in international tourists in 2017, up by seven per cent.

This compares to an average growth rate of 3 per cent for the Americas region and the worldwide growth rate of four to five per cent expected for 2018.

Patagonia is situated right at the southern tip of the continent and stretches across Argentina and Chile, boasting an unrivalled sense of remoteness, while still packed with scenic and biological diversity.

There’s no single tourist trail in Patagonia, which is exactly what makes it a truly unique destination for growing numbers of open-minded, experience-driven travellers.

With so much to see from some of the most far-flung reaches of open water, Australis Expedition Cruises can cater to a maximum of 200 passengers, offering a choice of three, four, and seven-night itineraries which deliver a more intimate and bespoke travel experience.

While exploring the country, The Singular Patagonia gives visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the real country, integrating luxury accommodation with the nature, culture and history of the area.

Michelle Mohaupt, market manager at Australis and The Singular said: “Unlike other parts of the word, it’s impossible to experience the best of Patagonia by road, rail, or plane.

“Here, it is about appreciating the landscape from hundreds of ocean vantage points while taking every opportunity to explore other methods of transport, such as hiking, horse riding, or kayaking from deep in the countryside.”

For those travelling to Patagonia, here are some unmissable sights on offer that will provide something a little out of the ordinary.

Ainsworth Bay

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Located within Alberto de Agostini National Park, Ainsworth Bay is one of Patagonia’s longest fjords surrounded by sub-polar forest and snow-capped mountains.

Visitors to this expansive yet secluded spot can enjoy stunning views of the Marinelli Glacier and watch elephant seals basking on the many beaches.

Ainsworth Bay is a perfect location for hikers looking to explore streams, waterfalls, and more of the region’s land-based wildlife such as beavers and various bird species.

Cape Horn

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As the southernmost headland of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago of southern Chile, Cape Horn is located on the small Hornos island.

Characterised by a 425-metre high cliff protruding from the ocean, it was first discovered in 1616 and used as an important navigation route for travellers between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.

Declared a Biosphere reserve in 2005, this treeless yet green and rocky island promises wildlife sightings in spades.

Laguna Sofia Valley

Horse Riding in Torres Del Paine National Park, Patagonia, Chile

The panoramic landscape of the Laguna Sofia Valley, offers the perfect opportunity to experience the immense Patagonian countryside.

Native to the southern Andes range, Lenga forests surround glacial lagoons which reflect the huge skies above.

With its vast and varied terrain of rolling hills and rocky mountain peaks, this scenic region is popular with horse riders, rock climbers, and wildlife enthusiasts, looking to catch a glimpse of the native condors gliding above.

Pia Glacier

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The Pia Glacier lies in one of the many fjords along the Chilean Patagonia coast.

The sheer magnitude of this glacier will leave anyone in awe, as this solid mass of water offers a striking contrast with its mountainous backdrop.

For those lucky enough, huge chunks of ice can sometimes be seen and heard splitting and crashing into the water below.

Visitors to Pia Glacier can enjoy the scene from various lookout points, or even hike the surrounding area for a more unique angle.

Torres del Paine National Park

Torres del Paine mountains, Patagonia, Chile

The wild and rugged landscape of Torres del Paine National Park is a focal point for hikers and horse riders.

Home to towering mountains, blue glaciers, and grasslands teaming with wildlife, visitors will never feel like they’ve seen the same scene twice as the seasons appear to revolve throughout the day.

The three granite towers (torres) from which the park takes its name are a must-see attraction.

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Ainsworth Bay Cape Horn Laguna Sofia Valley Patagonia Pia Glacier south america Torres del Paine National Park