11 Best Places to Visit in Patagonia, Chile

Post summary: best destinations in the Patagonia region in Chile

When most people hear Patagonia, they immediately think of Torres del Paine, but this region of Chile is so much more than just one national park.

Patagonia covers the southern third of Chile and is further divided into several sub-regions that are packed with dramatic landscapes with jagged peaks, massive glaciers, remote little islands, and wild coastline. Whether you’re here to hike, spot wildlife, or just road trip your way through some jaw-dropping scenery, there’s a lot to explore.

This guide dives into some of my favorite places in Chilean Patagonia. Yes, it includes Torres del Paine National Park, but also the lesser-known towns, hidden trails, and wild spots that made this trip unforgettable.

If you’re planning your own adventure down here, these are the absolute best places to visit in Chilean Patagonia so you can start planning the trip of a lifetime!

Also Read: How to find cheap flights, before you go on your next trip.

The Different Regions of Chilean Patagonia

Chilean Patagonia covers a massive area of Chile. It’s further split into three main regions, each with its own landscapes and highlights: 

1. Los Lagos Region (Northern Chilean Patagonia) – This is where Patagonia officially begins and includes Chiloé Island, Puerto Montt, and the northern section of the Carretera Austral. It’s a mix of fjords, forests, and volcanoes.
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2. Aysén Region of Patagonia (Central Chilean Patagonia) – The most remote and least populated part of Patagonia. It’s home to the Carretera Austral, Queulat National Park (Hanging Glacier), Cerro Castillo, and Laguna San Rafael. Expect lush forests, massive glaciers, and wild landscapes with fewer tourists.
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3. Magallanes Region (Southern Chilean Patagonia) – This is where you’ll find the most famous spots, like Torres del Paine, Punta Arenas, Tierra del Fuego, and Cape Horn. It’s known for windswept steppes, jagged peaks, and dramatic glaciers.

Guanacos in Patagonia

What to Know Before Visiting Chilean Patagonia

Before you head south, there are a few key things to keep in mind that will make your trip way smoother:

1. Book early – especially in peak season – Accommodation in Chile Patagonia fills up fast, especially near popular parks like Torres del Paine and in remote areas where options are limited. If you’re traveling between November and March (Patagonia summer season), try to lock in your stays a few months in advance.

2. Get your national park passes ahead of time –  Most parks in Chilean Patagonia (like Torres del Paine and Queulat) require advance reservations and entrance fees. You can book these online and print them to bring with you. It’s way easier than trying to figure it out at the gate.

3. Download offline maps (and consider a satellite phone) – Cell service is hit or miss once you’re outside major towns in Chile. Download offline Google Maps or Maps.me ahead of time. If you’re planning to go off the beaten path bring a a satellite phone or Garmin InReach.

4. Dress in layers (always) –  Patagonian weather changes constantly. One minute it’s sunny, the next it’s howling wind and sideways rain. Bring a good windbreaker and layers you can easily add or shed.

11 Best Places to Go to in Patagonia, Chile

Okay, let’s get into the best places to see in Chile’s Patagonia!

1. Torres del Paine National Park

If there’s one place you’ve probably seen photos of in Patagonia, it’s Torres del Paine – the crown jewel of Chile. And yes, it really is as stunning in person.

The park is home to the jagged Cordillera Paine mountains, massive glaciers, and bright blue lakes that almost don’t look real.

Base Torres hike at sunrise in December

The W Trek and O Circuit are bucket list hikes that take about 4-6 days to complete, but even the shorter trails come with some of the most impressive views I’ve ever seen.

While you’re there, take a scenic boat ride out to Grey Glacier, catch sunset at Lake Pehoé, go horseback riding in Rio Serrano, and keep an eye out for guanacos and condors along the way.

If you’re staying overnight, check out EcoCamp Patagonia, where you can sleep in a cozy geodesic dome surrounded by nature.

Read next: Where to Stay in Torres del Paine National Park

Left: Lake Pehoé at sunset; Right: Campervan driving in Torres del Paine National Park

2. Tierra del Fuego

Tierra del Fuego sits at the very bottom of Chile and genuinely feels like the edge of the world…because it kind of is.

It’s a remote, windswept region that’s all about raw adventure and wildlife. You can hike through untouched forests, paddle through fjords, and spot penguins, sea lions, and guanacos in the wild.

Head to Karukinka Natural Park for wide-open landscapes and rugged trails, or hop over to Martillo Island (just across the border in Argentina) to see penguins up close.

If you love off-the-beaten-path road trips, drive the famous Y-85 route that connects the northern pampas to Yendegaia Bay on the Beagle Channel.

As of writing this, the road isn’t fully complete but there are drivable sections that give you a chance to explore some of Patagonia’s most remote and pristine landscapes (as long as you’re prepared for the elements and prepared for quite an adventurous drive).

Whether you’re exploring on foot, by boat, or by car, Tierra del Fuego is a raw and beautiful part of Chilean Patagonia you won’t forget.

Glaciers in the Beagle Channel in Tierra del Fuego, Patagonia taken during our expedition with Australis Cruises

3. Aysén, Patagonia

The Aysén region is located in the northern part of Chilean Patagonia and feels like one of the country’s best-kept secrets.

Unlike the wide-open plains down south, Aysén is all about lush forests, fjords, rugged peaks, and icy rivers – and way fewer crowds. It’s far less crowded than Torres del Paine, which makes it a great place to go in Patagonia if you want to get off the beaten path.

You can hike through untouched landscapes, kayak on glacial lakes, raft the Aysén River, and spot rare wildlife like the huemul deer.

Some must-visit spots in Aysén include Laguna San Rafael National Park,, where you can get up close to massive tidewater glaciers, and Cerro Castillo, which has some of the most best hiking in all of Patagonia. If you’re into rugged, off-the-grid adventures, this region delivers.

Just a heads-up: Getting around Aysén takes some planning. You’ll need to mix driving with ferry crossings, and travel times can be long, but the scenery is worth the adventure. Most travelers fly into Balmaceda Airport (BBA) near Coyhaique, the region’s main hub. From there, the best way to explore is to rent a car and drive the Carretera Austral, the only major road that runs through Aysén.

4. Puerto Natales

Puerto Natales is a charming little town about a 2 hour drive north from Punta Arenas. It’s the main gateway to Torres del Paine National Park, so you will end up passing through or staying here on your way to the park. But it’s also worth visiting on its own.

It’s a laid-back town with stunning fjord views, great cafés, and access to some underrated adventures.

Walk along the waterfront promenade at sunset, visit Milodón Cave (where giant sloths once lived), or take a boat trip to Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers.

After a day of exploring, warm up with a craft beer and a hearty meal at Basecamp Pizza or Pizzeria Napoli.

5. Isla Magdalena (Monumento Natural Los Pinguinos): The Best Place to Visit in Patagonia for Penguins

Seeing penguins should obviously be on your Patagonia bucket list. And if you want to see them up close, Isla Magdalena (Magdalena Island) is the best place to visit in Patagonia to do it.

This small island in the Strait of Magellan is home to the largest colony of Magellanic penguins in southern Chile, along with a bunch of other seabirds. They’re only around during breeding season, which lines up with Patagonia’s summer.

There’s a marked trail on the island that lets you walk through the colony and watch the penguins waddle around, nest, and care for their chicks.

You have to stay at least 6 feet from the birds at all times, but they’re also super curious about humans, so don’t be surprised if they suddenly cross your path or waddle right up to your feet.  Even if you’ve seen penguins before, it’s so fun to see them so close in their natural habitat.

The boat ride from Punta Arenas takes about two hours, and you might spot sea lions or dolphins on the way. The visit itself is about 1.5-2 hours, which is a little bit short, but totally worth it.

Tip: Bring a long lens to photograph the birds from a safe distance! We snapped these photos with our Canon RF 100-500mm lens, which is our favorite lens for wildlife photography.

6. Punta Arenas

Punta Arenas is the gateway to Chilean Patagonia. It’s where most domestic flights fly into the region, as well as the starting point for several expedition cruises to Antarctica and other parts of Patagonia.

You can visit Isla Magdalena to see Magellanic penguins, walk along the Strait of Magellan, or check out the Nao Victoria Museum, which has full-size replicas of historic ships.

For a unique view, head up to the observation deck at Cerro de la Cruz, then grab a meal at one of the town’s amazing restaurants, like La Cuisine. It’s a chill place to get your bearings before heading into Patagonia’s more remote areas.

7. Alberto de Agostini National Park

Alberto de Agostini National Park is a hidden gem in southern Patagonia, a stunning mix of untouched fjords, massive glaciers, and snow-capped peaks.

It’s only accessible by boat and one of the least visited places on this list, making it one of the best places to visit in Patagonia to escape the crowds. In fact, we sailed through here on our expedition cruise through Patagonia with Australis Cruises, and only saw one other ship the whole time.

One of the absolute highlights is sailing through Glacier Alley in the Beagle Channel. In a world so ravaged by changing climate, the sight of towering, healthy glaciers spilling into the sea everywhere you look is INCREDIBLE.

Keep an eye out for humpback whales, sea lions, and Andean condors along the way.

Condor Glacier in Alberto de Agostini National Park, Chilean Patagonia

8. Isla Navarino

Isla Navarino is a remote, wild corner of southern Chile best known for the Dientes de Navarino Trek, a challenging but insanely rewarding hike that takes you through alpine passes, forests, and glacier-carved valleys.

The island also offers great wildlife viewing, including sea lions and marine birds. You can stroll through Puerto Williams, one of the southernmost towns in the world, or kayak through the Beagle Channel for an unforgettable way to take in the scenery.

If you’re looking for raw, off-the-beaten-path Patagonia without the crowds, Isla Navarino is worth the effort to get to.

Top Tip: If you want to see all the sights without having to get yourself there, a multi-day tour is a great way to see the region without worrying about logistics.

9. Puyuhuapi

Puyuhuapi is a quiet, off-the-grid village in the Aysén region of northern Chilean Patagonia, located along the Carretera Austral.

It’s wedged between Queulat National Park and the fjords of southern Aysén, which makes it the best place to go in Patagonia for hot springs, glaciers and scenic trails without the crowds.

One of the best things to do here is soak in the Puyuhuapi Hot Springs, which are natural pools with mountain views that are especially magical after a long day of hiking.

To get here, fly into Balmaceda Airport (BBA) near Coyhaique, then either rent a car or take a bus north along the Carretera Austral (Ruta 7). It’s about a 5–6 hour drive, but the views make it worth it. Or if you’d rather skip the logistics, there are guided tours that include stops in Puyuhuapi, Queulat National Park and other gems in the Aysén region.

10. Cape Horn (Cabo de Hornos)

Cape Horn (Cabo de Hornos) is a little island located 650 miles from the tip of Antarctica.

It’s about as far south as you can go before reaching The White Continent, which is why Cape Horn is known as – and definitely feels like – the End of the World.  The location marks the start of the Drake Passage, where the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans meet and create some of the roughest waters on the entire planet.

You can only get here on an expedition cruise with companies like Australis Cruises. If weather permits, the expeditions make a stop here to see the lighthouse, the world’s southernmost chapel, and the albatross monument, which honors the 10,000 sailors who died trying to cross the Drake Passage.

Cape Horn is not your average sightseeing stop, but standing at the “End of the World” is something so unique and powerful, and a moment you’ll never forget.

11. Carretera Austral (“Southern Highway)

The Carretera Austral (also known as Route 7 or Ruta 7) is easily one of the most scenic drives in the world and hands down the most beautiful road in Chile.

This remote stretch of highway winds 770 miles (1,240 km) through the heart of northern Chilean Patagonia, from Puerto Montt all the way down to Villa O’Higgins. Along the way, you’ll pass rugged mountains, dense forests, glacier-fed rivers, and gatorade blue lakes.

One of the biggest highlights is Queulat National Park, where you can hike through ancient forests to see the Hanging Glacier, a massive ice sheet spilling over the cliffs with waterfalls crashing down from it.

Tip: Don’t forget to buy your Queulat National Park Passonline in advance, as on-site entrance tickets are no longer available.

Further south, you’ll hit Lake General Carrera (Chile’s largest lake and one of the most striking). The water here is an unreal shade of turquoise, and it’s the perfect place to kayak or just hang out and take it all in.

If you’re looking for a good hike, Cerro Castillo is one of the best hikes in Patagonia. Think jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and views that rival Torres del Paine – just without the crowds.

Similar to the Icefields Parkway in Banff, the Carretera Austral isn’t the kind of drive you rush through. Whether you’re road-tripping, hiking (or both) the Carretera Austral will be an adventure start to finish. Give yourself time because you’ll want to stop often, and the detours are half the fun!

FAQs About Visiting The Best Places in Chile’s Patagonia Region

Still have some questions? These answers to frequently asked questions will have you ready in no time.

What Are the Best Things to Do in Patagonia, Chile?

Patagonia is all about adventure. Hike in Torres del Paine, take an adventure cruise, kayak past glaciers, and take a boat to Grey Glacier.

Spot wildlife like guanacos and condors, soak in hot springs, or wander through charming towns like Puerto Natales. Don’t forget to try a classic Patagonian asado (barbecue).

When Is the Best Time to Visit Chilean Patagonia?

The best time to go is October to April, which is Patagonia’s summer. You’ll get longer days, mild weather, and great hiking conditions.

If you want fewer crowds and don’t mind cooler temps, try March or April. Winter (May–September) is quieter but super cold, with some places being harder – or impossible – to reach.

Rio Serrano – one of the best places to go horseback riding in Patagonia

Do I Need to Be Super Fit to Visit these Places in Patagonia, Chile?

Not at all. While Patagonia is famous for tough hikes, there are plenty of easy trails and scenic spots you can enjoy without breaking too much of a sweat.

Many parks have short walks to beautiful viewpoints, and you can experience glaciers, fjords, and lakes by boat if hiking isn’t your thing.

What Should I Pack for A Trip to Patagonia?

Patagonia’s weather is unpredictable (yes, even in summer), so layers are KEY.

Bring a waterproof jacket, a warm fleece, sturdy hiking boots, and a hat and gloves (trust me, you’ll thank me later).

Sunglasses and sunscreen are a must, and don’t forget a reusable water bottle – the rivers here have some of the freshest, cleanest water you’ll ever drink.

And of course, bring a camera for photos to match your witty Instagram captions.

Did you find this Where to visit in Patagonia, Chile guide helpful? Let me know in the comments!

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