Punta Arenas King Penguin Colony Ushuaia Lago Deseado
Quite literally a journey to the far ends of the earth! Tierra del Fuego is among South America’s wildest and most remote corners, a beautiful yet desolate area of windswept steppe, ancient forests, glacier-choked fjords and pristine mountain ranges – perfect for a self-drive adventure! After collecting your car at Punta Arenas, you take the ferry across the Straits of Megellan and set off to drive South America’s largest island following in the footsteps of the explorers. This driving loop covers the highlights on both the Chilean and Argentine side of the border as you navigates the landscapes, wildlife and unique culture of Tierra del Fuego. Visit historic estancias and penguin colonies; hike beneath towering Andean Peaks and marvel at the breathtaking beauty of the Darwin Range.
Itinerary Highlights
Follow in the wake of explorers across the Straits of Magellan
Stay at a traditional estancia & experience gaucho life
Visit the only colony of King Penguins in South America
Explore Tierra del Fuego’s pristine wilderness
Enjoy a breathtaking cruise into the Almirantazgo Sound
What’s included
Vehicle rental & driving maps
24 hours support from our local partners
Unique boutique accommodation incl. traditional estancias
Journey recommendations & guides where desired
flexibility
This is an example itinerary. It is fully flexible; you can add or detract days and include hotels at your chosen budget. It departs daily.
10
Nights
Price Guide
Price on application
Our quotes are bespoke for your customised trip. The prices displayed are indicative only, read more
Start
Chile
Day 1
Punta Arenas & the Straits of Magellan
Fly to Punta Arenas, collect your car and drive to your hotel. Once settled in, the afternoon is yours to do as much or little as you like. Punta Arenas is a fascinating city, once global centre of the world’s wool industry and prominent port servicing the trans-Atlantlic trade route before the opening of the Panama Canal. Admire the monuments and mansions that line the “plaza de armas” and wander down to the docks to gaze out across the iconic Straits of Magellan. If you arrive early, you may like to arrange a boat trip out to Magdalena Island, home to 60,000 breeding pairs of Magellanic penguins, or drive south along the coast to visit the historic San Isidro lighthouse.
Day 2-3
Across to Tierra del Fuego
Drive to the port and continue by ferry to the small town of Porvenir on the far side of the straits. The journey tales around 2 hours and do keep your eyes peeled for penguins, dolphins and even whales that ply these southern waters. Once disembarked, drive south along the desolate Patagonian steppe that skirts “Bahía Inútil” (Useless Bay) where there is every chance of spotting guanacos, foxes and numerous bird species. Stay at a traditional estancia that dates back to Tierra del Fuego’s European pioneers and visit the “King Penguin Park” where you have the opportunity to observe South America’s only permanent colony of King Penguins. Spend a day at the estancia and experience traditional ranch life. You may like to saddle up and join the gauchos in the field or in the shearing shed or head off bird-watching or even fly-fishing.
Day 4-5
Drive to Ushuaia & the Beagle Channel
Today, you cross the border into the Argentine side of the Tierra del Fuego. The route takes you across to the wild Atlantic Coast before swinging south passing Tolhuin on the shores of the beautiful Lake Fagnano. The final stretch to Ushuaia is beautiful as you climb the Garibaldi Pass which opens up spectacular views across Lake Escondido and the Fuegian Andes. Ushuaia is a buzzing port on the shores of the Beagle Channel framed by the mountains Monte Olivia, Cerro Cinco Hermanos and Cerro Martial. Explore the town, take boat-trips out to remote penguin and sea-lion colonies or hike in the wilds of the Tierra del Fuego National Park. Ushuaia was a once a penal colony and you may like to ride the “Train to the end of the world”, built by the early convicts.
Day 6-7
Lago Deseado Adventures
Today you cross back into Chile, retracing your footsteps as far as Rio Grande before heading west across the Bellavista Frontier post and on through the rugged landscapes of Pampa Guanaco. Here, the landscapes change dramatically as you leave the mountains and woodland behind and enter one of the most isolated areas of Tierra del Fuego. Your destination is a remote lodge on the shores of a picture-postcard hidden lake framed by Andean peaks and old-growth forest. Here, you can hike, bike or paddle or head off with a guide to spot the resident wildlife. The lodge is renowned for its warm atmosphere and regional cuisine where you can share a drink with your fellow guests as the sun goes down across the mountains.
Day 8-10
Caleta Maria & the End of the Road!
The final leg of your trip takes you into one of the most remote corners of Tierra del Fuego. Continue south to the Río Azopardo surrounded by untouched forests and mountains and here, where the Lake Fagnano flows into the breathtaking Almirantazgo Sound. Caleta María sits at the end of the road set against the magnificent landscapes of the Cordillera Darwin range. Caleta Maria is a wild and beautiful bay, whose stunning backdrop harbours a wealth of marine life including Elephant- and Leopard seals as well as albatross, sea-lions and over 200 species of birds. Enjoy a full day’s navigation into the icy waters of the Parry Fjord, past hanging glaciers and tumbling waterfalls, as well as guided hikes through ancient lenga and coigüe forests to hidden lagoons. On your final day, you may like to take on a self-guided trail from the lodge before you start your journey back towards civilisation with a final overnignt overlooking Inutil Bay.
Day 11
Ferry Back to mainland chile & hand back the vehicle at Punta Arenas
A note on price
The prices outlined above are a rough guide to give you an idea of costs and enable you to budget for your trip.
Guide prices are generally for private arrangements based on twin share, in well located, good quality accommodation (excluding international flights).
Please note costs are indicative and may vary due to a number of factors such as; travel date, hotel choice, room category, number of people travelling and prevailing exchange rates.
Price Guide Price on application
When to travel
janfebmaraprmayjunjulaugsepoctnovdec
For Patagonia and the south, it is best to travel between October and April, January and February if you are keen trekkers. That said, the climate is highly unpredictable at the best of times and you should come prepared for all weather conditions “all 4 seasons in one day is the local adage”. Northern Chile is a year-round destination although you may see rain and flooding in ther highlands between January and March which can disrupt border crossings into Bolivia and Argentina.
Northern Chile (Desert Region: 25°C to 35°C): The northern desert regions experience extremely hot and dry weather during January, making it an ideal time for stargazing and exploring the unique landscapes of places like the Atacama Desert. Central Chile (Santiago, Valparaiso: 25°C to 35°C): January is summer in central Chile, with warm to hot temperatures. It's a great time to explore the vibrant cities, beaches, and vineyards of the region. Southern Chile (Patagonia, Lake District: 15°C to 25°C): January is summer in the south as well, providing the best conditions for outdoor activities like hiking, exploring the fjords, and visiting the picturesque lakes and national parks.
Northern Chile (Desert Region: 25°C to 35°C): Similar to January, February is hot and dry in the northern desert regions, perfect for exploring the otherworldly landscapes and participating in outdoor adventures. Central Chile (Santiago, Valparaiso: 25°C to 35°C): February is still summer in central Chile, offering pleasant weather for city sightseeing, cultural events, and beach visits. Southern Chile (Patagonia, Lake District: 15°C to 25°C): The summer weather continues in February, providing an excellent opportunity for exploring Patagonia's stunning natural beauty and wildlife.
Northern Chile (Desert Region: 25°C to 35°C): March marks the end of summer in the northern desert regions. Temperatures begin to moderate, making it a comfortable time for outdoor activities. Central Chile (Santiago, Valparaiso: 20°C to 30°C): Autumn begins in March, bringing milder temperatures and colorful foliage. It's an excellent time for wine tours and exploring the city without the peak tourist crowds. Southern Chile (Patagonia, Lake District: 15°C to 25°C): Autumn also arrives in the south, offering beautiful fall foliage and quieter travel experiences. Hiking and outdoor activities are still possible, though the weather may become more unpredictable.
Northern Chile (Desert Region: 20°C to 30°C): April brings pleasant temperatures to the northern desert regions, making it an ideal time for outdoor exploration, especially in places like San Pedro de Atacama. Central Chile (Santiago, Valparaiso: 15°C to 25°C): Autumn continues, and the landscapes are adorned with colorful leaves. It's a great time to visit vineyards and enjoy cultural events. Southern Chile (Patagonia, Lake District: 10°C to 18°C): April marks the end of the tourist season in Patagonia. While some services and accommodations may start to close, it's still possible to explore the region's natural wonders.
Northern Chile (Desert Region: 15°C to 25°C): May offers mild temperatures in the desert regions, making it a pleasant time for outdoor activities and exploring the unique geology of the area. Central Chile (Santiago, Valparaiso: 10°C to 20°C): Autumn continues in May, and the weather remains comfortable for sightseeing and city exploration. Southern Chile (Patagonia, Lake District: 5°C to 15°C): May brings cooler temperatures, and some tourist facilities may start to close for the offseason. However, it's a quieter time to experience the natural beauty of Patagonia.
Northern Chile (Desert Region: 10°C to 20°C): June marks the beginning of winter in the northern desert regions. While days are still relatively mild, nights can get chilly. It's a great time for stargazing and enjoying hot springs. Central Chile (Santiago, Valparaiso: 8°C to 18°C): Winter begins in June, and the region experiences cooler and wetter weather. It's an excellent time for urban exploration, enjoying Chilean cuisine, and experiencing the city's cultural scene. Southern Chile (Patagonia, Lake District: 2°C to 12°C): Winter arrives in the south as well, with colder temperatures and occasional snowfall. Many tourist services may be closed, but it's a unique time to experience Patagonia's winter landscapes.
Northern Chile (Desert Region: 10°C to 20°C): July is winter in the north, and temperatures can drop significantly at night. It's a good time to visit the El Tatio Geysers and enjoy hot springs to stay warm. Central Chile (Santiago, Valparaiso: 7°C to 15°C): July is the coldest month in central Chile, with rainy days. It's an excellent time for cultural experiences, indoor activities, and exploring museums. Southern Chile (Patagonia, Lake District: 1°C to 10°C): Winter continues in Patagonia, and while some areas may be challenging to access due to snow, it's a magical time to witness the region's winter scenery.
Northern Chile (Desert Region: 10°C to 20°C): August is still winter in the north, with cold nights. Despite the chilly temperatures, it's a great time for stargazing and enjoying the unique landscapes. Central Chile (Santiago, Valparaiso: 8°C to 16°C): August marks the end of winter, and temperatures start to slowly rise. It's a good time to explore the city before the arrival of spring. Southern Chile (Patagonia, Lake District: 2°C to 11°C): Winter conditions continue, and some places may still be challenging to access. However, it's an excellent time for winter sports enthusiasts and those seeking solitude in nature.
Northern Chile (Desert Region: 10°C to 20°C): September marks the beginning of spring in the north. The temperatures start to rise, and the desert comes alive with blooming flowers. It's a beautiful time for photography and outdoor adventures. Central Chile (Santiago, Valparaiso: 10°C to 20°C): Spring brings milder temperatures and blooming flowers to central Chile. It's a great time for outdoor activities and enjoying the city's parks. Southern Chile (Patagonia, Lake District: 4°C to 13°C): Spring arrives in the south, and the region begins to wake up from winter. It's an exciting time to witness the transition from winter to spring and experience the rebirth of nature.
Northern Chile (Desert Region: 15°C to 25°C): October offers pleasant temperatures in the desert regions, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the natural wonders. Central Chile (Santiago, Valparaiso: 12°C to 25°C): October is spring in central Chile, and the landscapes are adorned with colorful blossoms. It's a lovely time to visit vineyards and enjoy the outdoors. Southern Chile (Patagonia, Lake District: 7°C to 15°C): Spring continues to bloom in Patagonia, and the weather becomes more favourable for outdoor exploration. It's a popular time for visiting the region before the peak tourist season.
Northern Chile (Desert Region: 20°C to 30°C): November brings warmer temperatures to the northern desert regions. It's a great time for stargazing and exploring the unique geological formations. Central Chile (Santiago, Valparaiso: 15°C to 28°C): November is still spring in central Chile, with pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities and cultural events. Southern Chile (Patagonia, Lake District: 10°C to 18°C): November is an excellent time to visit Patagonia before the peak tourist season. The landscapes are lush and vibrant, making it perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Northern Chile (Desert Region: 25°C to 35°C): December marks the beginning of summer in the north. The weather becomes hot and dry, making it an excellent time for exploring the desert and enjoying outdoor adventures. Central Chile (Santiago, Valparaiso: 18°C to 30°C): December is early summer in central Chile, with warm temperatures. It's a festive time to experience the holiday season and celebrate the New Year. Southern Chile (Patagonia, Lake District: 12°C to 22°C): December marks the start of the tourist season in Patagonia. The weather is pleasant, and it's a great time to experience the region's natural beauty and various outdoor activities.
Add on’s
This is a stunning road-trip that takes you, quite literally, to the ends of the earth. With an extra week or so to play with, why not route back onto mainland South America via Punta Delgada and drive north to the spectacular mountains, glaciers and Patagonian steppe to visit Calafate and El Chalten. From here, you can complete the loop by recrossing the border and travelling through the magical Torres del Paine National Park.
Exploring Tierra del Fuego by land only covers a small fraction of the island so on returning the car, why not join an Australis cruise to explore the breathtaking channels, fjords and glaciers of the Darwin Range by sea. Disembarking back at Ushuaia, you could then take a flight north to Buenos Aires which then leads you through to Iguazu Falls and Rio de Janeiro, for the ultimate contrast to the ice and granite of the frozen south.
Want a quote on a trip like this?
Speak to one of our travel specialists and we’ll create your personalised itinerary just for you
To access our “hidden gems” destination guides and to join our exclusive newsletter for curated updates from Oasis Travel just drop in your details in below.
