Patagonian Express
Journey on the old and iconic steam locomotive from Esquel to Nahuel Pan.
From the picturesque Lake District of the north to the wild glaciers of the south and the soaring Andes of the west to the wildlife-rich Atlantic of the east, this journey traverses the extremes of Argentinian Patagonia.
Journey on the old and iconic steam locomotive from Esquel to Nahuel Pan.
Travel off-the-beaten-track in Peninsula Valdes on the stunning Atlantic Coast.
Stay in a remarkable estancia in remote Peninsula Valdes for magnificent wildlife watching.
Visit a magnificent carving glacier, perhaps sipping a whisky cooled with its ice shards.
An in-depth look at the hugely varying landscapes that make up this expansive region of Argentina, our ultimate Patagonia journey idea includes everything from estancia stays and horseback riding to a jaunt on the Old Patagonian Express and whale-watching. Travelling mostly by hire car on an epic road trip that features just a sprinkling of internal flights, this route cuts across the entirety of Argentinian Patagonia.
Days 1-2
Buenos Aires
Day 3
Buenos Aires - Bariloche
Days 4-5
Bariloche
Day 6
Bariloche - Esquel
Day 7
The Patagonian Express: Esquel - Nahuel Pan - Esquel
Day 8
Esquel - Puerto Madryn
Day 9
Puerto Madryn - Peninsula Valdes
Days 10-11
Peninsula Valdes
Day 12
Peninsula Valdes - El Calafate
Days 13-14
El Calafate
Day 15
El Calafate - Buenos Aires
Day 16
Buenos Aires
Days 1-2
Buenos Aires
Day 3
Buenos Aires - Bariloche
Days 4-5
Bariloche
Explore the remarkable alpine scenery on horseback or head out on hikes along trails that pass waterfalls.
Day 6
Bariloche - Esquel
Day 7
The Patagonian Express: Esquel - Nahuel Pan - Esquel
Journey on the old and iconic steam locomotive from Esquel to Nahuel Pan.
Day 8
Esquel - Puerto Madryn
Day 9
Puerto Madryn - Peninsula Valdes
Days 10-11
Peninsula Valdes
Travel the breadth of the county with a private guide, all the way to the Atlantic Coast.
Day 12
Peninsula Valdes - El Calafate
Days 13-14
El Calafate
Visit a magnificent carving glacier, perhaps sipping a whiskey cooled with its ice shards.
Day 15
El Calafate - Buenos Aires
Day 16
Buenos Aires
Fly from Buenos Aires to Bariloche, one of the most beautiful regions in the country known for its crisp alpine air and aqua blue lakes. Perhaps stay in a property that overlooks dazzling Lake Gutirrez, and explore the remarkable alpine scenery on horseback or on foot. Go birding in the majestic forests, kayaking over the calm waters of the bay, or practise mindfulness in the mountains with yoga or tai chi practise. This is a truly special place for self-driving journeys, and you might even cross the border into Chile.
Journey south to Esquel to board The Old Patagonian Express steam train for a round trip to the small town of Nahuel Pan. Known locally as La Trochita, this is one of the most southerly railways in the world and retains much of its authenticity.
Travel to Peninsula Valdes, an extraordinary haven for wildlife despite its seemingly barren landscape. From the charming Estancia Rincon Chico, head out to visit penguin colonies, hike on off-the-beaten-track wildlife trails in search of guanacos and rheas, or try your hand at mountain biking across the steppe. It is also possible to lend a hand with the sheep on the ranch, go walking along the inland dunes, or saddle up to ride the wild-looking horses along the coastline.
Fly to El Calafate in southern Patagonia, visiting Los Glaciares National Park to board a scenic boat trip to the base of the mighty Perito Moreno Glacier, perhaps sipping a whiskey cooled with ice shards from its carved chunks. For those that like to trek, consider donning a pair of crampons and hiking across the glittering blue ice.
Those wishing to experience all that Patagonia has to offer might like to extend their trip with a journey to Torres del Paine National Park in bordering Chilean Patagonia. This iconic landscape, dominated by three granite towers, is the ideal location for hiking, horse-riding and mountain biking.
Send us an enquiry
Complete our enquiry form and start your next journey.
Prices will vary depending on the time of year you are travelling. Prices do not include international flights. Please ask one of our Travel Experts for an accurate quote. Flights purchased through Steppes Travel departing from the UK are ATOL protected.
December to February is the peak of summer in Argentina, bringing long summer days and pleasant temperatures. As this is the busiest time of year to travel, expect peak prices and we recommend planning 9-12 months in advance for availability. Summer is the best time of year for all the outdoor experiences that the country has to offer.
January and February are the peak of summer in Argentina, bringing long summer days and pleasant temperatures. As this is the busiest time of year to travel, expect peak prices and we recommend planning 9-12 months in advance for availability. Summer is the best time of year for all the outdoor experiences that the country has to offer.
March brings the end of summer across the country. If you are planning to visit Patagonia, it is best to start here in early March as it is still accessible.
April starts the autumn in Argentina. As the temperatures lower, crowds thin across the country. This can be a great time to avoid large numbers of visitors and to experience the autumnal colours across the countryside.
As the country moves further into late autumn, temperatures continue to drop. However, cooler temperatures can make for a pleasant visit to Iguazu Falls, Mendoza and the desert avoiding the crowds.
June begins the winter season across the country. Although Patagonia becomes more challenging to access, this can be a good time to visit other more popular destinations further north without the crowds. This is also the best time to view the southern right whales off the Valdes Peninsula.
July and August are the depths of winter for the country. This brings much cooler temperatures and snow in some regions. Although perhaps not an ideal time to see the highlights, this can be a good time to visit Buenos Aires in an off-peak time with cooler temperatures.
July and August are the depths of winter for the country. This brings much cooler temperatures and snow in some regions. Although perhaps not an ideal time to see the highlights, this can be a good time to visit Buenos Aires in an off-peak time with cooler temperatures.
September officially welcomes spring across Argentina. This is a great time to experience the northern region without the peak season prices or crowds.
As the country moves further into spring, the countryside starts to bloom with wildflowers. This is a great time of year to get involved with outdoor activities while temperatures are still cool and the crowds are quieter.
November is a great time of year to visit as summer begins yet beating the peak season crowds that come in December. Patagonia is in full bloom and the vineyards of Mendoza are surrounded by the stunning snow-capped Andes.
December in Argentina brings the start of the peak season. Temperatures are warm, although due to the size of the country these can vary so it is advisable to bring layers. Weather is at its most desirable for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Following from the spring rains, the falls of Iguazu are at their most impressive during December.
Our knowledge, curiosity and expertise set us apart, driving us to create remarkable holidays and Beautiful Adventures tailored perfectly to you, carefully curated to help protect and conserve our planet.
Are you ready to Discover Extraordinary?