Patagonia: trekking to Mount Fitz Roy, Perito Moreno Glacier and Las Torres Towers

On our trip to Patagonia, we combine mountain trekking with relaxation and an interesting excursion programme, and select accommodation accordingly. In large cities, these are 3- or 4-star hotels, and in small towns, cosy guest houses or apartments, always with hot showers and internet in the rooms. Of the 12 nights of the programme, we will spend 2 nights in equipped campsites: tents will be waiting for us in advance, and we will also rent mattresses and sleeping bags on site. The tents are spacious and raised above the ground on special platforms for greater comfort. There are hot showers on the campsite. If desired, you can upgrade to a bed in a hostel room or a 2-3 bed room for an additional fee of $100 to $300 per person per night, but this should be clarified in advance with the manager, as places in such accommodation are usually booked 6-10 months in advance.

The dates of our programme are calculated for a favourable weather period, when it is mid-summer in Patagonia, so there will be no extremely cold temperatures during the trek. However, it should not be forgotten that the latitudes of this region are close to the polar regions and at night the temperature can drop to around zero. Precipitation and strong winds are also likely, so it is important to have high-quality membrane clothing to protect yourself. But if you are lucky, in sunny weather you can easily hike in a T-shirt and light trekking trousers.

On days when we stay overnight in civilisation, breakfast is included in the hotel price, and everyone can choose the rest of their meals according to their taste. You will have the opportunity to try the national cuisine of Argentina and Chile, which is known throughout the world, primarily for its steaks and asado, as well as, depending on the region, seafood or exotic fruits. We take a snack for lunch on the trek, and we also eat at a restaurant on the campsite. At one of the campsites, half board must be booked in advance and is included in the price of the programme. At the other, you choose from the menu, as you would in a restaurant, and pay separately.

In terms of difficulty, this track is accessible to people without special training or mountain experience, as long as they are in good physical shape. The altitude does not exceed 1,500 metres above sea level, so there is no need to worry about altitude sickness. It will be a big advantage if you play sports or run regularly. You need to be prepared to walk on mountain trails with elevation changes of up to 1000 m. Radial outings can be up to 25 km in total per day.

In general, these countries are among the most developed in South America and are quite similar to European countries in terms of lifestyle, so there is no need to fear extreme levels of crime here. However, you should remain vigilant and always keep your documents, cards and money in safe places. Obviously, do not go to bad neighbourhoods and do not walk down dark streets in the evenings. You should be especially careful in large cities: do not flash cash and expensive items (jewellery, watches, etc.) on the street, do not take photos with your phone held out at arm's length, because someone may snatch it from your hands if they get the chance. In small towns, where the main income of the locals is from tourism, the atmosphere is much calmer, and people are usually very friendly and sincere.