Two years ago, I embarked on an unforgettable adventure to one of the most breathtaking corners of the world: Patagonia. From the snow-capped peaks of Fitz Roy to the stunning landscapes of Torres del Paine, the trip was filled with unforgettable hikes, mouthwatering meals, and moments that still feel vivid today. Here's a glimpse into my journey, from the rugged beauty of El Chaltén to the enchanting wilds of Torres del Paine.
The Adventure Begins: El Calafate to El Chaltén
After a long string of flights (nearly 24 hours), I arrived in El Calafate, the gateway to Patagonia, and without hesitation, jumped on a bus heading straight to El Chaltén. As soon as I arrived, I could feel the excitement of being surrounded by towering peaks and the promise of incredible adventures ahead. My base for the next three nights was a cozy little town known as the "National Capital of Trekking."
Hiking in El Chaltén: Lago de los Tres and the Secret Falls
The next morning, I was off to explore the world-famous trails of El Chaltén. My first stop was the challenging but incredibly rewarding hike to Lago de los Tres, which sits below the mighty Fitz Roy. I started before the sun rose after getting little sleep the night prior, but what even is sleep in a place like El Chaltén? The trail took me through lush forests and across rocky terrain, with the towering silhouette of Fitz Roy looming in the distance. Reaching the lake felt like stepping into a dream — the water was perfectly still, mirroring the snow-capped mountains surrounding it. The weather was kind enough to allow for an almost surreal photo op, and I spent a moment just soaking it all in.
The following morning, with my travel companion Andrew who had arrived the night before, we headed to The Secret Falls — a lesser-known gem in the area. It’s a short but magical hike that leads to a peaceful waterfall tucked away in the forest. The sound of the water cascading over rocks made for the perfect backdrop to reflect on the beauty of the place.
A Taste of Patagonia: Empanadas, Lamb Stew, and Pisco
No trip to Patagonia is complete without savoring the local food. In El Chaltén, I enjoyed some hearty empanadas and pizza, accompanied by a cold beer, after a long day of hiking. They were delicious and perfectly hit the spot after hours of trekking.
But the true highlight of the culinary experience came the first night — a lamb lentil stew that was prepared with love by a local restaurant. The warmth of the dish, combined with the rustic flavors of the lamb, created a cozy and fulfilling meal. To cap off the evening, We had a homemade pisco that was as smooth as the Patagonia night was long.
El Calafate: Perito Moreno Glacier and the Best Steak of My Life
After leaving El Chaltén, we made our way to El Calafate to explore one of the most famous sights in Patagonia: the Perito Moreno Glacier. The massive wall of ice was a sight to behold. Watching it calve and hearing the thunderous crack as chunks of ice fell into the water felt almost surreal. It’s the kind of natural wonder that stays with you long after you leave.
But the highlight of our time in El Calafate wasn’t just the glacier. After a full day of exploration, we treated ourselves to a meal at one of the finest steakhouses in the area. The lamb I ordered was perfectly cooked, tender, and bursting with flavor. My friend Andrew opted for a juicy steak, which, by all accounts, was equally fantastic. We kicked things off with several appetizers, each more delicious than the last, but it was the meal itself that became one of the nicest I’ve had in my life. A perfect evening, paired with a glass of local wine, was the ideal way to reflect on an incredible day.
Puerto Natales and Torres del Paine: Exploring Chile's Iconic National Park
The adventure continued as we took a long bus ride to Puerto Natales, the gateway to Torres del Paine National Park in Chile. The bus ride was long but worth it — as we made our way through Chile’s breathtaking landscapes, the anticipation built for the hikes and views that awaited us in Torres del Paine.
Once in the park, we hiked to the iconic Base of the Towers (Torres), a challenging but rewarding trail that led us to one of the most striking vistas in Patagonia. The towering granite spires of Torres del Paine stood tall against a bright blue sky, and the sense of awe was palpable.
Discovering the Calafate Sour
After a day of hiking, we took a well-deserved rest and stumbled upon one of the best cocktails I’ve ever had: the Calafate Sour. This regional drink is made with calafate berries, and the balance of sweet and tart, combined with a refreshing tang of pisco, made it the perfect drink to cool off after a day of adventure. If you ever find yourself in Patagonia, I highly recommend giving it a try — it’s a drink as unique and special as the landscape itself.
Reflecting on the Journey
Looking back, my trip to Patagonia was a journey of contrasts — rugged and wild landscapes, intimate moments of reflection, and culinary indulgence in the midst of some of the world’s most spectacular terrain. From the towering peaks of Fitz Roy to the ice-blue glaciers of Perito Moreno, it’s a place that draws you in and stays with you long after you’ve left.
As I prepare for my next adventure, I often find myself thinking about the time I spent in Patagonia — and I can't help but feel a strong pull to return one day. Whether it’s the rugged landscapes, the sense of adventure, or the simple joy of good food and great company, Patagonia will always have a special place in my heart.
Have You Been to Patagonia?
If you've ever visited Patagonia, I'd love to hear about your experiences! What trails did you hike? Where did you eat? Let me know in the comments below.