Am going to Chile this December for 5 weeks. I was hoping to go in February but circumstances require we go in December, so I am scrambling now to plan where we should go. I have already earmarked 2 weeks for 2 side trips to Uyuni/San Pedro de Atacama as well as Santiago and Easter Island. So that leave us with 3 weeks for the Lakes District and Patagonia. Looking at the huge bewildering choices available in these locations has my head spinning - especially when one considers the travel routes.
Can someone suggest what they think would be the best 3 week trip in to the Lake District and Patagonia regions of Chile/Argentina? Some guidelines: hiking the ‘W’ at Torres del Paine is a given. As are seeing a penguin colony. I think climbing Villarica is also a must. Perito Moreno as well. I also want to squeeze in some time in Chiloe, which is a must for me, as it appeals to my photographic sensibilities.
There are many other points of interest: El Chalten, Beagle Channel, Ushuiai, Bariloche, El Calafate, Fitzroy, Pucon….and many more that I am unaware of.
Can anyone give me some kind of itinerary and transportation route to best squeeze in the best of this region in 3 weeks? I will forgo the Navimag voyage. Please note that I am not a starving student and willing to fly whenever needed.
Is Perito Moreno spectacular enough to warrant a visit in view of the fact one sees Glacier Grey in Torres del Paine?
If one can work something like the LAN ChilePass in to the itinerary that would be perfect. It makes sense to start in Ushuaia and work one’s way north but is it possible to fly there from Santiago?
Just to give some insight in to our interests, my main passion is photography and would give photogenic locations & activities precedence over areas of historical/sport adventures/gastronomical/beach lounging interest. I don’t think we’ll want to do much more hiking/refugio/camping than what we’ll be doing in Torres del Paine. Locations with day hikes are all we will put up with outside of T del P. My wife is not the backpacking type- loves marble bathrooms ect, but she’ll compromise for Uyuni and T del P. That will probably be pushing it – we are 45+ year old sedentary office trolls.
As always, I sincerely thank all of those for their replies!!