3-Day Patagonia Tour Packages

Insider tips: Recommended 3-day Patagonia tour itineraries

Compiled by

MelissaPatagonia travel expert at TourRadar

• 3 Days in Argentine Patagonia, incl. Bariloche and Nahuel Huapi

  Mountains and lakes define this 3-day expedition covering Buenos Aires and San Carlos de Bariloche. The route crosses Lake Nahuel Huapi, ascends the 1,050-meter Campanario Hill, and reveals Victoria Island's volcanic beaches. Includes 2 nights at a 4-star hotel and round-trip flights from Buenos Aires for around $1,800.

  

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  • Day 1

    Buenos Aires to Bariloche & Lake Circuit

    Take an early morning flight from Buenos Aires to Bariloche. The flight takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes. Book a morning departure to make the most of your first day. After checking into your hotel in central Bariloche take the Small Circuit tour along Bustillo Avenue. The road follows Lake Nahuel Huapi's shoreline. Try to sit on the right side of the vehicle for the best views. Head up Campanario Hill by chairlift before 2 PM to avoid afternoon winds that might close the lift. It costs about $15 USD and gives you amazing 360-degree views of lakes and mountains. Next stop is the Llao Llao Peninsula with its historic hotel perfect for photos. Remember to pack layers since lake winds can be cold even on sunny days.

    
  • Day 2

    Victoria Island & Arrayanes Forest

    Start your day at Puerto Pañuelo for a one-hour boat ride. Visit the Quetrihué Peninsula first to see the rare Arrayanes Forest on elevated boardwalks. These cinnamon-colored trees are among the world's oldest. One recent visitor shared: "Walking through the Arrayanes Forest feels like entering a fairytale - the twisted orange trunks against the blue lake create an otherworldly scene. Go early to avoid the crowds." After lunch explore Victoria Island's Puerto Anchorena. The hiking trails are well-marked but can get muddy so wear good shoes. Visit the ancient rock paintings at Playa del Toro in the afternoon light. Take a break at the volcanic black sand beach.

    
  • Day 3

    Final Morning & Return

    Spend your last morning in downtown Bariloche. The chocolate shops on Mitre Street open at 9 AM so you can try local specialties before leaving. Most flights back to Buenos Aires leave in the afternoon giving you time for a relaxed breakfast and shopping. The airport is about 30 minutes away but plan for extra time during peak season from December to February.

    

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• 3 Day Patagonia Itinerary, incl. El Calafate and Perito Moreno Glacier

  The majestic Perito Moreno Glacier anchors this 3-day Patagonian escape with 2 nights in El Calafate. Early morning glacier visits include multiple viewpoint access. Package includes airport transfers and breakfast, ideal for extending to El Chalten.

  

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  • Day 1

    El Calafate Arrival

    After landing at El Calafate International Airport, take a 20-minute transfer into town. El Calafate sits next to Lake Argentino with beautiful mountain views all around. Spend your afternoon walking down the main street, Libertador, where you'll find plenty of outdoor gear shops and local Patagonian restaurants. Book your hotel in downtown El Calafate near Av. del Libertador so you can easily walk to restaurants and tour meeting spots.

    
  • Day 2

    Perito Moreno Glacier

    Get an early start with a 7:00 AM departure to see the glacier before the crowds arrive. The drive takes about 80 minutes on Route 11. One visitor shared: "Arriving early was crucial - we got to hear the thunderous sounds of ice cracking before the viewing platforms got crowded." Pack warm clothes since morning temperatures can be close to freezing even in summer. Bring cash for the park entrance fee (about $20 USD) as it's usually not included in tour packages. You'll walk on metal catwalks at different heights to view the glacier. Wear shoes with good grip since the platforms can get slippery. The basic tour ends around 4-5 PM, but you might want to add the boat tour option to get closer to the massive 240-foot ice wall. Watching and hearing the ice break off is an amazing experience.

    
  • Day 3

    Departure

    Have breakfast and get ready for your flight home. If you're leaving later in the day, visit the Glaciarium museum near the airport to learn more about Patagonian glaciers. Most hotels will store your bags if you want to do some last-minute shopping in town.

    

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• 3 Days in Torres del Paine, incl. French Valley and Glacier Grey

  Mountainous terrain and glacial views highlight this three-day Patagonian journey through Torres del Paine. Trek 10-15km daily to Valle Frances and Glacier Grey, with stays at Refugio Paine Grande and Grey. Includes 6 meals and catamaran crossing of Lake Pehoe.

  

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  • Day 1

    Puerto Natales to French Valley

    Take the 7:30 AM bus from Puerto Natales to Torres del Paine. The ride takes about 2.5 hours. At Pudeto dock, you'll catch the catamaran to Paine Grande Refugio. Book this boat ticket ahead since spots often sell out. The day's main trek is 11.5 km to French Valley lookout. You'll walk along Lago Nordenskjöld's shore and get amazing views of Los Cuernos peaks. Pack light but bring solid wind gear. The valley is known for intense winds that can hit 50 mph.

    
  • Day 2

    Paine Grande to Glacier Grey

    Plan for an 11 km hike through lenga forest that opens up to incredible glacier views. Start your day by 9 AM to have enough time at Refugio Grey. One visitor shared: "The first glimpse of Grey Glacier is breathtaking, but push on to the viewpoints past the refugio - they're even better and less crowded." Watch for falling ice from the safe spots marked by rangers.

    
  • Day 3

    Glacier Grey to Puerto Natales

    Leave by 8 AM and walk 4 km to Puente Grey suspension bridge. This spot offers perfect glacier photo opportunities. Then hike 11 km back to Paine Grande. Plan to catch the 2:30 PM catamaran across Lake Pehoé. This is the last boat of the day. Your bus to Puerto Natales departs Pudeto at 4:45 PM. A good tip: Schedule a massage in Puerto Natales for the next day. After walking more than 30 km in three days, you'll need it.

    

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