Argentina and Chile
Neighbouring Argentina and Chile are bound together by Patagonia’s picture-postcard scenery. Natural wonders stretch from the thundering Iguazu Falls in the north down to the awe-inspiring glaciers of the southernmost Cape Horn. From a wildlife-rich coastline, over the snow-encrusted Andes, to the lunar desert of the west.
Torres del Paine
Torres del Paine National Park has one of the most famous and beautiful landscapes in the whole of Patagonia. The park’s name comes from the Native American word ‘payne’ meaning pale blue: acknowledgment of the striking turquoise lakes that adorn this astonishing environment. Sail around the chain of icebergs to the glacier on Lake Grey or walk beneath the towering granite peaks of the immense Paine Massif.
HIGHLIGHTS: Trekking, sailing. Buenos Aires
Since its founding in 1536, Argentina’s capital has thrived on European trade. An eclectic mix of Spanish, French and Italian architectures rub shoulders with remnants of Victorian grandeur; its wide avenues earning it the title of ‘the Paris of the South’. Yet behind this elegant façade each barrio (neighbourhood) brims full of tango rhythms, exotic cuisine and bustling markets. Sit and soak up the atmosphere or join in and go with the flow!
HIGHLIGHTS: Learn to tango. 68
Tierra del Fuego
An archipelago off the tip of Argentina and Chile, Tierra del Fuego is often referred to as ‘the end of the world’. Ushuaia is the world’s southernmost city and is an excellent base for exploring the forests, lakes and mountains of Tierra del Fuego National Park. Alternatively cruise through the icy Beagle Channel to Cape Horn and sidle between steep-sided fords and breathtaking glaciers; a real taste of Antarctica.
HIGHLIGHTS: Hiking, bird-watching, boat trips.
The Lake District
As the longest mountain range in South America, the Andes provides a remarkable backdrop to the Lake District. The jagged peaks are as beautiful close up as they are from a distance, particularly when seen from boats which weave along the waterways. With its 20 great lakes, the Lake District offers unrivalled opportunities for fishing, rafting and kayaking while enjoying nature’s incredible creations.
HIGHLIGHTS: Fishing, rafting, kayaking. Valdes Peninsula
A thin strip of land stretching out into the South Atlantic, the Valdés Peninsula is a protected heritage site and Argentina’s premier nature reserve. The beautiful coastline abounds in marine life: with a riot of sea lions, elephant seals and magellanic penguins frolicking on the sands. Whale-watching is at its best here between May and December when up to 400 can be seen just off the coast.
HIGHLIGHTS: Boat trips, whale-watching.
Atacama Desert
The Atacama Desert in northern Chile has been likened to Mars for its parched soil: in some places rain has never been known to fall. The vast sand plains and salt pans are spectacularly beautiful, set against the Andes to the east. The sun casting its rays over sand dunes in the Valley of the Moon is one of the best views you are likely to see.
HIGHLIGHTS: Hiking, cycling, horse-riding.
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64 |
Page 65 |
Page 66 |
Page 67 |
Page 68 |
Page 69 |
Page 70 |
Page 71 |
Page 72 |
Page 73 |
Page 74 |
Page 75 |
Page 76 |
Page 77 |
Page 78 |
Page 79 |
Page 80 |
Page 81 |
Page 82 |
Page 83 |
Page 84 |
Page 85 |
Page 86 |
Page 87 |
Page 88 |
Page 89 |
Page 90 |
Page 91 |
Page 92 |
Page 93 |
Page 94 |
Page 95 |
Page 96 |
Page 97 |
Page 98 |
Page 99 |
Page 100 |
Page 101 |
Page 102 |
Page 103 |
Page 104 |
Page 105 |
Page 106 |
Page 107 |
Page 108 |
Page 109 |
Page 110 |
Page 111 |
Page 112 |
Page 113 |
Page 114 |
Page 115 |
Page 116 |
Page 117 |
Page 118 |
Page 119 |
Page 120