Patagonia

What a novelty for a Kiwi: go south! In Patagonia, the bottom tip of South America, you’ll find the world’s southernmost city, Ushuaia, as well as a pristine wilderness of stunning beauty.

This is real explorer territory: sail around Cape Horn, through the Straits of Magellan, walk on Tierra del Fuego – but do it in comfort, with a cosy cabin to return to after a leisurely dinner comparing notes. Maybe you saw sea elephants today, or orca, or penguins. How did your photos of the glistening blue glaciers turn out? How many icebergs did you count – and did your alpaca gloves and hat keep you warm? Can you think of a better word for Punta Arenas than just ‘colourful’?

The spectacular granite peaks of Torres de Paine are a magnet for trampers: along the way, explore ancient beech forest, look for guanacos on the plains and condors overhead. If you go in spring, the deep blue alpine lakes are surrounded by wild flowers: camp beside one, or stay in a mountain lodge. Soft or hard, your Patagonia experience will be unique.

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