Argentina

On the Trail of Argentina's Patagonia

Biking, Hiking and Ice Trekking

(8 Days)

Slide Show

The name Patagonia evokes images of windswept and isolated landscapes, massive glaciers and awe-inspiring granite peaks. This 8-day jaunt through Argentina's Patagonia combines biking, hiking and ice trekking and is designed for adventure seekers limited in time, but want a taste of vibrant Buenos Aires and rugged Patagonia. We start in the cosmopolitan city of Buenos Aires, with its European flair. Our first two days are on foot and bicycle, meandering along cobblestone streets and people watching on outdoor patios. Then it's a flight southwest to the small town of El Calafate, and onwards into Los Glaciares National Park. We visit Perito Moreno Glacier, trek alongside majestic mountains and through pine forests to the famed Mount Fitzroy. Lastly we trek on the ice to Cerro Torre, a sheer spire capped with a glacial ice dome. Our nights of slumber combine small hotels, cozy log cabins in an Adventure Camp and tents below the starry southern sky. Bring along your spirit of adventure and expect to be mesmerized by the dramatic beauty that Patagonia possesses.

Trip Highlights

• Biking through the neigbourhoods of Buenos Aires
• Hiking in Los Glacieres National Park
• Ice Trekking in Cerro Torro

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival Buenos Aires

Upon arrival into Buenos Aires, a BikeHike Adventures representative will greet you and transfer you to a comfortable hotel in Buenos Aires. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore this vibrant South American city.

Day 2: Buenos Aires (Biking)

After breakfast we transfer to the San Martín monument at Plaza San Martín to get geared up for a morning of cycling through the different neighbourhoods of Buenos Aires. We ride on a series of paths, roads and boardwalks. Pedaling through the city limits is a very interesting and entertaining way to get acquainted with the neighbourhoods, people and attractions. Our knowledgeable guides will educate us on the history with each new district we ride into. We'll be back in time for lunch and then have the rest of the day to enjoy Buenos Aires. Overnight at the same hotel in Buenos Aires. (B)

Day 3: Balconies of Perito Moreno Glacier (Hiking)

Transfer to the airport for a flight to El Calafate. Upon arrival you'll transfer to a comfortable hotel and then set off to see the Perito Moreno Glacier to visit the Balconies. In the afternoon return to your hotel in El Calafate for dinner and overnight. (B,L,D)

Day 4: Los Glacieres National Park - Fitz Roy Tower (Trekking)

In the morning, you'll be transferred to the bus station to catch a public bus to El Chalten. There is some free time in El Chalten for lunch, and then you'll be transferred to the Fitz Roy Adventure Camp. This wilderness adventure camp is located 17 km/10 miles north of El Chalten. The lodge is built on the shore of Rio de Las Vueltas with native beech tree forest and stunning views of Mt. Fitz Roy’s north face. The lodge has a fabulous dining room, offering delicious local cuisine, and of course, robust Argentine wine. Mountain bikes, canoes and kayaks are available for all guests wanting to enjoy the outdoors, although some might choose to relax by the fireplace gazing at the granite walls of Fitz Roy. Overnight in cabins at Fitz Roy Adventure Camp. (B,D)

Day 5: Fitz Roy Trek (Trekking)

After breakfast we have a 10 minute drive to the trailhead. We'll ascend gradually all morning along the Rio Blanco to the base camp of the same name. This is the camp where climbers wait for a break in the weather when attempting the always-difficult ascents of the granite monolith named after Darwin’s ship Captain (The Beagle). We'll ascend more steeply to Laguna De Los Tres where we will have close-up views of several of the routes used to climb Fitz Roy, weather permitting. In the afternoon we'll trek to Thorwood Camp passing through the Madre and Hija Lagoons. Overnight in tents in Thorwood Camp. (B,L,D)

Day 6: Cerro Torre (Ice Trekking)

This morning is quite exciting. We will be trekking on the ice at Cerro Torre. We'll start with a safety briefing and crampon and harness check. The hike starts around Laguna Torre where we'll traverse across the Fitz Roy River on a Tyrolean rope. We'll follow the rim of the moraine and eventually arrive on the Grande Glacier. On the ice, we'll follow basic Glacier travel procedures, glacier behavior and basic ice climbing practices. In the afternoon we'll trek to a hotel in El Chalten where we spend the night. (B,L,D)

Day 7: El Calafate - Buenos Aires

This morning we'll take the public bus back to El Calafate arriving at approximately 11:00 AM. We'll transfer you to the airport in El Calafate to connect with your flight back to Buenos Aires. Once in Buenos Aires, you'll be transferred to a comfortable hotel. (B)

Day 8: Departure

Private transfer to the international airport. End of services. (B)

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