Patagonia is where the earth shows off. Glaciers calve into turquoise lakes, condors ride the wind above granite spires, and on the estancias gauchos still ride the way their grandparents did.
How do you do Patagonia in luxury? Base yourself at a lodge like Awasi Patagonia, where each villa has its own private guide and vehicle, or Explora near Torres del Paine. Add a private trek on the Perito Moreno Glacier and an estancia stay with gaucho riding. February brings long days and golden light.
Key facts
- Best month: February, with long days and golden light.
- Where to stay: the best-known lodges sit on the Chilean side around Torres del Paine. Awasi Patagonia, Explora Patagonia, Tierra Patagonia or the domes at EcoCamp.
- Two countries: Patagonia straddles Argentina and Chile.
- Don't miss: a private trek on the Perito Moreno Glacier.
The luxury experience
Photo: Mario La Pergola / Unsplash
Patagonia straddles Argentina and Chile, and the best-known luxury lodges sit on the Chilean side around Torres del Paine. Awasi Patagonia gives each villa its own private guide and vehicle, while Explora Patagonia pairs serious hiking with a very comfortable bed. Tierra Patagonia and the domes at EcoCamp round out the options.
Awasi holds three MICHELIN Keys, and it sits on the Chilean side, so plan your border crossing if you're also seeing the Argentine glaciers.
Photo: Courtesy of Awasi
Photo: Courtesy of Awasi
Must-do experiences
Photo: Hans-Jürgen Weinhardt / Unsplash
- Perito Moreno Glacier private trekking
- Torres del Paine W Trek with luxury camping
- Estancia stays with gaucho horseback riding
- Private boat to Lago Argentino icebergs
Claire's Patagonia advice
Photo: Chrysanthi Ha / Unsplash
You can do Patagonia on a backpack or in real luxury, and Awasi is worth every penny. Your private guide shapes each day around what you love and how much energy you have. The Perito Moreno glacier is humbling. For decades it held steady while most glaciers in the region shrank, though a 2025 study found it has started to thin and pull back. February is my sweet spot.
Starting in the capital? Read my Buenos Aires guide first, and if you love a good glass of red, add Mendoza wine country to the trip.
Book a free consultation and we'll match you with the right lodge. You deserve to wake up at the edge of the world.
Destination Guide
Destination Guide
Destination Guide