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Embracing the Art of Slow Travel: A Journey Through the Heartlands of Chile and Argentina

They say that time is the greatest luxury there is and we agree, especially when it comes to travel. Many of us are restricted by other obligations and pressures and don’t have the privilege of traveling for extended periods of time – as much as we may like to! Sometimes we have to make the most of the week or two that we have to explore a new country or region. But by taking a breath and a step back, we can get so much more out of our travels. 

Slow travel

Slow travel has become a buzzword in the sustainable travel space over recent years. It can be tempting when you go to a destination to try to see everything and pack in as much as possible. But this isn’t only worse for the environment (more local travel creates more emissions and changing of hotel increases water consumption), it can also be exhausting!

Slow travel offers an alternative. It isn’t just a pace, but a mindset too. Vacationing is as much about taking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life as it is about discovering new destinations. Slow travel suggests spending relaxed, quality time in your destinations to build a deeper connection, living like a local by visiting local restaurants and shops, and creating unforgettable memories that don’t seem like a fleeting moment in time. And the best thing is you practice it on short or long trips, depending on when you need to get home!

If you have the opportunity to spend just a few days in Torres del Paine or El Chalten, just taking some brief moments to breathe the clean air and take in the epic landscapes will be life-changing. Likewise, whether you visit the Atacama for three days or two weeks, taking a moment to be mindful and appreciate what’s around you rather than worrying about packing your bags for the next location will transform how you travel. 

In Chile and Argentina, the slow travel philosophy aligns seamlessly with the essence of the land and landscapes. There’s a saying in Patagonia that if you rush through you’re doing it wrong, but we believe that’s true wherever you are. Here, at the end of the world, time seems to stretch out in rhythm with the sprawling landscapes of the northern deserts, the rolling wine valleys, and the ancient forests of the lakes regions. 

Chile: A Tapestry of Contrasts

Begin your slow travel odyssey in Chile, a country that stretches from the arid Atacama Desert in the north to the glacial fjords of Patagonia in the south. Santiago, the vibrant capital, serves as a gateway to diverse landscapes and cultural experiences. Take your time exploring the city’s historic neighborhoods, savoring the flavors of local cuisine, and discovering the fusion of modernity and tradition. 

As you venture southward, the lush vineyards of the Central Valley beckons. Slow down to sip on Chilean wine, crafted with care and precision, and allow the serene lakes to cast their spell on you. In the lakes region, discover the myths of the Chiloé Archipelago, with its iconic wooden churches and picturesque fishing villages that invite visitors to step back in time and relish the simplicity of life. Over on the mainland, you can walk up the almost perfectly conical Osorno Volcano, or walk amongst the 3000-year old trees of the Alerce Andino National Park. 

Argentina: Tango, Gastronomy, and Endless Horizons

Crossing the border into Argentina, the spirit of slow travel continues to unfold. Buenos Aires, the birthplace of tango, is a city that thrives on passion and rhythm. Allow yourself to be swept away by the music and dance, meander through cobblestone streets, and indulge in the city’s renowned culinary scene. Argentina’s slow-cooked asados (barbecues) are a gastronomic journey in themselves, reflecting the country’s dedication to flavor and tradition.

From the vibrant city life, journey into the heart of the Andes. The northwest region of Argentina, with its colorful mountains and indigenous communities, invites travelers to savor the authenticity of local cultures. Cafayate, nestled in the Calchaquí Valleys, is a haven for wine enthusiasts, where vineyards dot the landscape, and each sip tells a story of the sun-drenched terroir.

Patagonia: Nature’s Symphony

No exploration of slow travel in Chile and Argentina is complete without a pilgrimage to Patagonia. This untamed wilderness, shared by both countries, is a haven for those seeking solitude and communion with nature. Take your time trekking through Torres del Paine National Park, where emerald lakes mirror granite spires, and the wind whispers tales of ancient glaciers.

In the southern reaches of Patagonia, the town of El Calafate beckons with the majesty of the Perito Moreno Glacier. Witness the slow dance of nature as icebergs calve into the turquoise waters, and feel the enormity of time etched into the glacial landscape.

We’ll be here when you’re ready

In the embrace of slow travel, Chile and Argentina reveal themselves as more than just destinations; they become immersive experiences that linger in the soul. As you traverse these lands at a leisurely pace, you’ll discover that the true beauty lies not just in the destinations, but in the journey itself—a journey that unfolds like a captivating novel, inviting you to savor each chapter and relish the intricate details that make these countries a canvas of memories.

Crossing the Chile-Argentina Border

The Andes Mountains form a spectacular border between Chile and Argentina, stretching 5,308 km (3,298 mi). Crossing between the two countries will offer you some incredible views and the chance to experience two unique and dynamic South American countries. We’ll help you with the planning and logistics of hopping over the border, but if you’re keen to know more, keep reading for the requirements, what to expect, and the sights you’ll see on the way!

You can cross each of the points we name here in a vehicle, although there are smaller crossing points that may only permit foot and bicycle traffic. These minor crossings usually connect small towns and villages in the Andes region. Check maps, ask locals, or speak to your Ecochile contact to see if there are pedestrian or bike-friendly crossings on your route.

 

Requirements

To cross the Chile-Argentina border, you’ll need a valid passport, a tourist card/visa if required (if going from Chile to Argentina, you need to show the PDI paper you received when you entered Chile), and the documents handed to you by the rental car company if applicable. Depending on your nationality, you may be able to cross with just your passport or you may need to obtain a tourist visa ahead of time. Check the requirements for entering Chile and Argentina before your trip. 

Officials on both sides of the border will stamp your passport and may ask you questions about the purpose and length of your visit. Make sure you have all your travel documents in hand and be cooperative with border personnel for the shortest processing time. Border wait times fluctuate based on season and traffic volume, so build extra time into your itinerary. Summer and major holidays tend to be the busiest crossing times.

 

Paso de Jama crossings – Northern Deserts

These border crossings lie between the fascinating desert town of San Pedro de Atacama in Chile and the alluring colonial city of Salta in Argentina and altitude wine region of Cafayate. In northern Argentina, the Salta province shares a long border with Chile. This crossing lies at high altitude which offers a unique landscape of desert mountains, salt flats, and salt lagoons to admire along the route. Be sure to fill up on gas, food, and cash before leaving as there are few services available along this route. Although open all year round, the crossing point may close in the winter due to weather conditions. 

There is also the option of crossing at Paso Sico, which lies slightly further south. 

 

Los Libertadores pass – Central Region

The most popular and heavily trafficked crossing is the Los Libertadores pass. The road, Route 60, goes from the Chilean city of Valparaiso, passing through Santiago and reaching the Argentine city of Mendoza. Keep an eye out for the highlights of the route: the 4 meter (10ft) tall Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer) statue; passing the awe-inspiring Mount Aconcagua, the highest mountain in the Americas; and the brilliant ski center, Ski Portillo, one of the oldest and most important in the Southern Hemisphere. 

This mountain pass sits at an elevation of 3,200 m above sea level (10,500 ft). Although officially open all year round, at these lofty elevations, the weather conditions in the winter can mean closures for safety reasons. Our team will be in touch if this will affect you and provide you with an alternative.

 

Nahuel Huapi National Park, Bariloche

Cardenal Antonio Samoré Pass Lakes Region

The scenic lakes region of Argentina and Chile offers another popular border crossing option via the Cardenal Samore Pass. This crossing connects the famous Argentine tourist town of San Carlos de Bariloche with Puerto Varas in Chile’s Lake District. This picturesque route winds through the Andes along Lake Nahuel Huapi, passing cascading waterfalls and forests of native trees, chasing snow-capped volcanoes. With its ease of access via public transportation and gorgeous natural backdrop, the Bariloche to Puerto Varas trip makes for an excellent add-on for travelers looking to see more of Patagonia’s iconic mountain landscape and experience the best of both Argentina’s and Chile’s lake regions.

Alternatively you can cross further south at Paso Pérez Rosales as part of a beautiful route that mixes scenic drives and ferry rides over idyllic Patagonian lakes. This leisurely route travels between Puerto Varas and Bariloche and is a truly spectacular way to travel. Note that this route must be booked in advance with the tour operator.

 

Paso Roballos & Paso Jeinimeni – Southern Patagonia

At the southern end of the Andes in Patagonia, dirt roads criss-cross the border between Chile and Argentina. Some, like Paso Roballos or Paso Jeinimeni, require 4×4 vehicles or hiring local guides to traverse them. El Chaltén in Argentina provides access to the Southern Patagonian Ice Field via border crossings like Paso Vuriloche. Travel here is for the adventure-seeker looking to explore remote mountain landscapes, or to visit the incomparable Torres del Paine and incredible El Chalten in one epic trip! Note that this crossing is only open during the summer season.

When you travel with Ecochile, we’ll help you manage these crossings, ensure you have all the documents you need, make the appropriate arrangements with the rental car company and handle any hiccups that may happen. Speak to us today to start planning your trip to Chile and Argentina! 

Visiting the Wildlife Haven of Iberá Park

Esteros del Iberá is one of Argentina’s best kept travel secrets. A wildlife reserve in the wetlands of northeast Argentina, this national park offers one of the most unique experiences you can have in a country known more for its rich malbecs, dramatic tango, and even more passionate football. Iberá lies far off the typical tourist path and it’s certainly not for everyone. Nonetheless, its spotlight on caring for the environment, protecting nature in all its forms, and the serenity and untouched feel of the place only adds to the charm of this conservation project that has opened its doors to tourists.

Part of the Tompkins Conservation rewilding projects across Argentina and Chile, Iberá Park spans over 700,000 hectares (1.7 million acres). Its marshlands and forests are home to an impressive range of over 4,000 species of wildlife – this is what makes this place incredible. You can even visit an island to spot the illusive jaguars that have been reintroduced to the region. 

If you’re looking for a safari that’s a little different, or you’ve already seen the African savannahs the forests of Costa Rica, or the snowy landscapes of Antarctica, this is the place for you. Open plains of luscious marshlands, uncharacteristic of Argentina, where crocodiles lurk in wait of their prey, where deer wade through the water, and where capybaras roam freely across the grasses, make the Iberá Park a must-visit for any wildlife lover or birdwatcher’s next vacation.

You can arrive at the park from Misiones airport, just an hour and a half flight from Buenos Aires. From there it’s a 5-hour off-road drive through the park to the accommodation but the time flies by. Gazing out the window, you’ll find yourself surrounded by tropical green trees and grassy plains occupied by ñandus and deer as some of the exquisite birdlife flies by overhead.

Despite the park’s remoteness, the accommodation options on offer here offer a touch of luxury typical of the Tompkins projects. With wooden beams and flowing curtains, the decor pays homage to the safari lodges of Africa with a local touch. 

On the banks of Laguna Iberá, Casa de Esteros has an elegant rusticity with spectacular views from its many terraces. From here, the nighttime safari will show you the secrets of nocturnal life: boars, foxes, vizcachas, and nocturnal birds all come out to play, carefully (and respectfully) located and spotted by the expert guide. 

The next day, you can visit a forest to see the curious howler monkeys and colorful birds that occupy the trees and canopy. For the more adventurous, head out to the lake on a kayak or camp under the stars in the village. 

Rincón del Socorro, in the southeast of the park, boasts a very well-deserved five-star rating and the finishing touches not only show the care of the staff and quality of service, but also the respect and admiration of the nature that surrounds the hotel. This truly is a bird watcher’s paradise. Ñandus, herons, and a host of woodpeckers and other birds with brightly colored heads surround the accommodation and are tastefully included in the artwork. 

It’s easy to lose track of time just sitting on the terrace watching the birds fly past, but the activities are what make this place unique. Explore the hotel’s surroundings on horseback or ebike, or take to the trails on two feet as you hike the exclusive trails. Stopping for lunch at picnic tables with white table cloths in the middle of the forest, you’ll sample the delicious produce of the hotel’s kitchen garden. In the evening, take in the slow, relaxed atmosphere with a bonfire or even a traditional Argentinian asado (barbeque) under the full moon. 

Puerto Valle is Iberá’s most impressive accommodation, as much for its decor, service, and amenities as for its sustainability record. As the only hotel in the province with Greener Hotels sustainability recognition, this former estancia minimizes its energy usage and maximizes its positive social and environmental impact by preserving local biodiversity and cultural heritage. The hotel’s exclusive activities include a magnificent boat trip or kayak expedition along the Paraná river, a magical horseback ride along the river’s banks, or an unforgettable safari in the national park where you can spot the reintroduced red macaw.

Ibera isn’t a place for moving quickly or for adrenaline-inducing activities. Its calmness and focus on nature makes it a great escape for those who enjoy slow travel, who are looking to relax and spend time admiring the intrinsic beauty of nature. It serves as a great complement to the buzz and popularity of the Iguazú Falls and a striking contrast to the pampas and wine valleys that typically characterize Argentina. 

If you want to know more about visiting Iberá, have a look at the itineraries below or contact us today with your questions! 

Where to go kayaking in Patagonia

If you’re a fan of kayaking, you’ll know that it’s such a special way to experience a new place. Sat on the water, feeling the gentle swell rock your small vessel, and marveling at your beautiful surroundings – what’s not to love? 

Patagonia is definitely up there as one of the best places to kayak in South America, if not the world. Alongside glaciers, between the mountains of a fjord, and at the base of some iconic mountains, kayaking in Patagonia is a unique way to experience the incredible beauty of Chile and Argentina.

Calafate, Argentina

The Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the most impressive of its kinds. Unbelievably enormous and constantly waning, it’s a truly remarkable sight. Once you’ve seen it from a distance on the walkways that lead to it, experience the ‘King of the Glaciers’ from up close on a kayak to take in its wonder and see it in a way few others are lucky enough to. 

Bariloche, Argentina

Lake Machonico, between San Martin de los Andes and Bariloche, is a spectacular location for your kayaking adventure. Famous for its serene waters and that idyllic forested mountains that surround it, this lake is a great place for beginners and experienced kayakers alike to enjoy the landscapes of the Argentinian lakes. Cross the lake and paddle along a gentle river to find a smaller lake and the perfect lunch spot!

Aysén, Chile

Travelling along the Carretera Austral, stop off at Puerto Rio Tranquilo for a unique and unforgettable kayaking experience. On the edges of the emerald-blue General Carrera Lake, you can find the marble caves – a geological marvel that leaves experts flabbergasted. The beauty of these rock formations is something that has to be seen to be believed. While you can take a boat to the caves, reaching them on a kayak allows you to get closer and even paddle inside! 

Torres del Paine, Chile

The fjords and lakes of the Torres del Paine National Park offer amazing kayaking opportunities. Experience the Grey Lake and Grey Glacier from the intimacy of your kayak. Surrounded by the Paine Grande Hill and the Olguín Mountain Range, this excursion will leave you with treasured memories of Chilean Patagonia. 

The Ebenhard Fjord 

Appreciate the ruggedness of Patagonia from the unique perspective of Eberhard Fjord. Head from Puerto Prat to Puerto Consuelo. You’ll pass by Kruger Island, also known as the Island of the Dead as it was the first cemetery established in the area by explorers in the nineteenth century. The excursion includes a walk on the shore to enjoy the landscapes from some amazing viewpoints. 

Chiloe

An archipelago riddled with lakes, rivers and bays, Chiloe is perfect for kayaking! From the waters in and around the islands here, you can spot some of Chiloe’s most beautiful birds and the local otters known as chungungos! If you’re looking for something a little different, Chepu has to be your kayaking destination. Here, you can paddle amongst a sunken forest, caused by the land sinking in the 1960s earthquake. If you get here at sunrise, it’s the best time to see Chiloe’s wildlife and to enjoy the serenity of this majestic place. 

10 Days in El Chalten

El Chaltén is a hiker’s paradise. In southern Argentinian Patagonia, this small town is nestled in the mountains of the Los Glaciares National Park. Above the roofs of the few buildings of the town, the peaks of Mount Fitz Roy and the granite monoliths of the Andes mountain range rise up, as if guarding the town.

This is a place of pure wilderness. Outside of the town, you’ll replace tarmac roads for blue lagoons, grey towering mountains, green rolling hills, and impressive glaciers. If you’re inclined to adventure and inspiring nature on your travels, this is the place for you.

Here is your guide to the ultimate 10-day stay for adventurers in this incredible wilderness. This is not for the faint of heart. But, for experienced hikers and wilderness enthusiasts, it doesn’t get much better.

Day 1 – Welcome to El Chalten

El Chalten is a small remote town in southern Patagonia. It lies a few hours’ drive from El Calafate, which is the nearest airport if you’re flying in from Buenos Aires. Alternatively, your transfer can take you directy from Torres del Paine in Chile if you’re on a full Patagonia tour!

Take the afternoon to settle into your hotel and explore the charming town. Be sure to try some of the restaurants, sample the local breweries, and rest up before the adventure ahead.

The Huemul Circuit

The Huemul Circuit, a loop starting and finishing in El Chalten, will take you well and truly off the beaten path through spectacular landscapes. You’ll walk alongside glaciers, ice float-filled lakes, magical forests and magnificent peaks. With no facilities on the route, this circuit is definitely one for experienced hikers and those who feel at home in the wilderness. But this raw nature of the circuit is sure to reward you with the astounding beauty of the world.

Day 2 – Laguna Toro

Your first day of the circuit will take you up to the Laguna Toro, but there is no easing into this hike! You’ll pass over the log bridges covering swampland and be immersed in a beautiful forest before emerging to find your first campsite. With a view over the Lago Viedma, enjoy your first night sleeping under the Patagonian stars.

Tunel Glacier and Toro Lagoon

Day 3 – Paso del Viento

Waking up to the spectacular Patagonian sunrise as the orange glow reflects on the mountains is an experience you will not forget. There is surely no better way to start the day!

You’ll start the day with a little extreme. You’ll come across a powerful river that you can only cross via zipline. With the help of your guide, you’ll fly over the water and feel the wind in your face! Continue the day walking uphill to the Paso del Viento – The Wind Pass – whose name is not a coincidence! At the highest point of the circuit, you can enjoy the magnificent view over the majestic Patagonian ice field, including the Viedma Glacier and Cerro Mariano Moreno. Make the final stretch to the idyllic lakeside Paso del Viento campsite.

Day 4 – Lake Viedma

On day four, you can marvel at mighty nature as you walk alongside the Viedma Glacier on a long downward stretch. You’ll be accompanied all the way by a beautiful panorama over the Lake Viedma and glacier until you reach Ice Float Bay. This is a place of breathtaking tranquility and outstanding beauty, where the ice floats gracefully sit in the water. Take in the view as you have dinner and set up your final camp for the night.

Viedma Glacier – El Chaltén

Day 5 – Onward home!

The final day of the circuit offers a flatter route for you to follow, until an ever-impressive view of Mount Fitz Roy emerges in the distance. You’ll finish the circuit with a final zipline over the River Tunel to the Tunel Bay, where your transport will be waiting for you to take you back to El Chalten.
Take the afternoon to rest and relish in the challenge you’ve just completed, as well as a hearty Patagonian meal!

Spending free time in El Chalten

El Chalten is famed for its hiking trails, but if you want to give yourself a rest, there is a plethora of other exciting activities to try. From fishing to horseback riding, cultural experiences to rock climbing and kayaking, put your feet up for the day and explore some of the other options this town has to offer.

Day 6 – Lago del Desierto kayak

Take a weight off your feet today (you deserve it!) and swap the mountains for the serenity of a lake. Head to the blue waters of Lago del Desierto. This astounding view is a true celebration of the colors of Patagonia: the grey the Andean peaks, the green native forests of lenga trees, the white of the hanging glaciers, and the blue of the lake. There are few better ways to enjoy these magnificent landscapes than from the gentle sway of a kayak. After paddling, stretch your legs with a self-guided amble along the shores of the lake or to the Huemul glacier to take some great shots!

Lago del Desierto – El Chaltén

Laguna de los Tres and Laguna Torre

The treks to Laguna de los Tres and Laguna Torre are the two classic routes from El Chalten. Their highlights are the iconic Mount Fitz Roy and Mount Torre peaks that dominate the landscape. The majority of visitors choose to do one trek per day, returning to the town for the night. For a more unique experience, join these two together to make a triangular route!

Map courtesy of El Chaltén Turismo

Day 7 – Laguna de los Tres

Head out from El Chalten in a transfer to the trailhead at Rio Eléctrico bridge. Immerse yourself in a bewitching forest as you slowly climb up towards the Piedras Blancas Glacier viewpoint to gaze in awe at the view of the hanging glacier. You’ll continue on to reach a steep incline but push through – at the top the Laguna de los Tres is waiting for you with its jawdropping views of the magnificent Mount Fitz Roy. In good weather, this makes a unique picnic spot for lunch before heading down part of the way and diverting to Poincenot. Your campsite for the night will be truly memorable as you sleep with a view of the incredible Fitz Roy massif.

Laguna de los Tres hike

Day 8 – Laguna Torre

It’s definitely worth getting up early this morning- the red hues of the sunrise reflecting on Fitz Roy is a view unlike any other. After breakfast, we’ll continue on the lesser trodden path past the Madre and Hija lagoons. Relish in the tranquility of this path that most visitors to El Chalten don’t see before rejoining the main route in Torre valley. At the end, you’ll see one of the most iconic sights of Argentinian Patagonia: the Laguna Torre, Cerro Torre, and their glacier. After lunch here, you’ll enjoy these final views of untouched nature as we follow the Fitz Roy river along the final side of the triangle to return to Chaltén.

Laguna Torre and Cerro Torre

Day 9 – Climbing and Ice Trek

The experience of standing on top of a glacier in one of the most remote places of the world is an incredible feeling. It’s physically demanding, yes, but definitely worth the effort!

After a short drive to Los Huemules reserve, you’ll spend a couple of hours treking through a charming Lenga forest. When you arrive at the Diablo Lake, you’re adventure really begins! Put on your safety equipment to climb, slide, and crawl your way to the Cagliero glacier. The blue glow of the ice and its marvellous forms really are something to behold! You’ll get to spend about an hour on the glacier to appreciate the moment as well as take some incredible photos and eat, before heading back the way you came to enjoy the vista and the great outdoors!

Laguna del Diablo – Los Huemules

Day 10 – La Leona Petrified Forest

Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end. After 9 days of adventure in the nature of El Chalten, you’ll already be planning your return! On your way out to the airport in El Calafate, make one final stop to wonder at the magic of Patagonia. Midway between the two towns, stop at the petrified forest of ‘La Leona’ to discover the land of the dinosaurs!

You’ll drive along the Lake Argentino to reach the historic Hotel La Leona, before heading on to a traditional estancia (Patagonian ranch). Walk around the paleontological site to discover the 70-million-year-old fossilized tree trunks. Keep your eyes peeled for dinosaur fossils too! From here, head on to El Calafate for an evening flight or for the next part of your trip!

La Leona Petrified Forest

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El Chalten is, without a doubt, an incredible part of the world. There are endless options of activities to do here, and this is only an example. If this sounds like something you want to do or if you have any questions, send our team a message and we’ll be happy to help! We can handcraft your trip to El Chalten to make the trip of your dreams come true!