 The Patagonia region in South America is vast, basically covering the entire southern tip of the continent. The region, governed by both Argentina and Chile, includes the southern portion of the Andes Mountains which naturally divides the Argentine Patagonia (largely grasslands and deserts) from the Chilean Patagonia (temperate rainforests, lakes, fjords and glaciers). Top reasons to visit? Breathtaking landscapes, unspoiled beauty, pristine forests, wildlife and amazing outdoor experiences draw visitors to Patagonia. One of the best ways to see the region is on a small ship cruise. Roads are few and small ships have the ability to sail into secluded bays, narrow channels and fjords. Guaranteed no crowds and experiencing sites few get to see. Top experiences include: Cape Horn The cape is the southernmost landmass north of Antarctica and the southern part of Tierra del Fuego, where the Atlantic and Pacific oceans meet. The area welcomes you with strong wind gusts and choppy waters. Weather permitting, a landing on Hornos Island is a must. Once onshore, you climb up steep wooden steps to the top, then across a boardwalk to reach the Cape Horn monument, which commemorates the 10,000+ sailors that perished sailing around the horn. The monument depicts an albatross in flight – the symbol of souls lost at sea.   Top photo credit: Quark Expeditions - Bloody Orange Adobestock The Tierra del Fuego National Park and Archipelago Tierra del Fuego is located between Ushuaia and Punta Arenas, a region that belongs to both Chile and Argentina. Tierra del Fuego National Park is in Argentina and closer to the Antarctica peninsula that to Buenos Aires. Approximately 2/3 of the archipelago is Chilean, 1/3 Argentine. The archipelago is a region of subarctic and pristine forests, tundra and glaciers with a vibrant coastline. The coastal channels and fjords offer sheltered passageway past the snow-capped peaks of the Darwin Range. Glacier Alley is one of the most spectacular passage in the region. Two of the most impressive glaciers include Pia and Garibaldi – described as jaw-dropping.  Top photo courtesy of Australis Cruises Torres del Paine National Park This UNESCO biosphere reserve is 699 square miles in size and is known for its beautiful lakes, forests, rivers, extensive trekking opportunities and the amazing granite pillars of Torres del Paine. While many go to the park for multiday treks, there are many other experiences to be had, including short day or half-day hikes, day trips into the park to drink in the sheer beauty of the place as well as opportunities to visit working estancias (ranches) where you can explore the park like a gaucho. Puerto Natales is the gateway to Torres del Paine.  Punta Arenas and Admiralty Sound This area is known for Magellanic penguins, named after the Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan, whose crew first sighted these cute birds back in 1520.  Ainsworth Bay is one of the most pristine and picturesque areas of Patagonia and has opportunities to see glaciers, including North Brookes Glacier and Marinelli Glacier.  Photos courtesy of Australis Cruises Breathtaking, jaw-dropping, amazing, impressive, spectacular…. Perfect descriptions of this incredible region of South America. If nature, wildlife and outdoor experiences are what piques your interest, Patagonia is not to be missed. Ready for an experience that takes your adventure to a new level?
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