Want to plan an unforgettable, customized South American vacation perfectly tailored to your interests, budget and travel style? As experts in personalized travel, EcoArgentina thrives on crafting bespoke itineraries based on each traveler’s unique needs and bucket list.
By providing key details upfront, you enable us to design an epic adventure across Argentina, Chile, and beyond built just for you. Follow these tips to help us create your dream vacation.
Provide Detailed Information to Maximize Personalization
The more you tell us, the better we can tailor your ideal itinerary. Share special interests, occasions, dietary needs, health concerns, past trips, travel style, absolute musts and avoids. Specify desired destinations or general regions that appeal. The more guidance you give, the more we can personalize.
Share Your Activity Wishlist
Tell us the landscapes, experiences and activities you want to enjoy. Seeking outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, kayaking? Want to focus on wildlife, cuisine, culture, photography? Love wine tasting, horseback riding, stargazing? The options in South America are endless, so share your interests.
Specify Your Ideal Pace and Budget
Let us know if you prefer an action-packed itinerary or a more relaxed exploration. Also indicate your budget level – would you rather stick to a lower budget or have flexibility to splurge on special experiences? This helps us balance cost with experiences.
Inform us of your ideal travel dates and any flexibility. Being adaptable with dates allows us to arrange your vacation more smoothly and efficiently. If dates are fixed, we’ll work to accommodate. Also share your time zone and contact preferences.
Relax and Let Us Handle the Rest!
Once we receive your details, our South America travel experts will craft a personalized proposal for your dream vacation and take care of all logistics. With first-hand local knowledge, we’ll design an unforgettable experience. Say goodbye to trip planning stress and let us make your next adventure special!
Ready to Plan Your Tailor-Made Trip of a Lifetime?
With decades of experience and local expertise, Ecoargentina excels at personalized vacations. To start planning your customized South American adventure, contact us today. Or let’s get started on planning your vacation of a lifetime!
When following an Ecoargentina itinerary, you’ll encounter various accommodation options tailored to your preferences. However, the names of these hotels might be perplexing. Certain establishments label themselves as lodges but exude a vibe more akin to boutique hotels, and the term ‘hostal’ might raise concerns for travelers who have moved beyond their backpacking phase. In this context, we will clarify the distinctions in accommodation styles offered by Ecocargentina.
It’s not all about the stars!
Judging a hotel solely by the number of stars it has is a common practice, but our unconventional perspective challenges this notion. When you choose to book with us, we prioritize understanding your expectations from your accommodation, rather than relying solely on star ratings. This approach is rooted in the understanding that star ratings are primarily based on the amenities a hotel offers. A 4-star hotel might offer a comparable level of luxury to a neighboring 5-star hotel; the only difference could be the absence of certain amenities, such as a spa, for instance.
As you plan your trip, you may encounter surprising variations in prices among accommodations with similar ratings. It’s noteworthy that a 5-star hotel in Buenos Aires could cost as much as a 3-star hotel in El Chalten! The increased costs in the remote national park mean that you might receive less value for the same amount.
Nuss Hotel, Buenos Aires
Your Ecoargentina travel specialist is dedicated to assisting you in finding the accommodation that aligns with your priorities. If a spa and pool are non-negotiable for you, we will identify hotels that offer these amenities. Similarly, if being in the town center or enjoying a scenic lake view is crucial, we’ll recommend hotels that match your preferences. However, if your budget is a primary concern, we’ll collaborate with you to discover the best accommodation options for your money. Explore the available styles below to guide us in providing tailored recommendations.
Lodge
A ‘lodge’ typically refers to a small hotel situated in a rural setting. These establishments are characterized by their cozy ambiance and evoke a sense of traditional, rustic living. Constructed from the wood provided by the surrounding landscapes, lodges seamlessly blend into their environment, providing an authentic and homely atmosphere, often accompanied by breathtaking views. While these accommodations may lack the modern luxuries of life, such as reliable Wi-Fi or a spa experience, they offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, slow down, disconnect, and relish the simple pleasures of life for a few days.
Moconá Virgin Lodge, Saltos de Moconá
In the jungles of northwestern Argentina, you can find some delightful lodges tucked away for an immersive and serene experience. Hotel Virgin Lodge in the Misiones Rainforest, Iguazú offers a clean and modern space dedicated to protecting the beautiful surroundings. Mocona Virgin Lodge, in the heart of the Yaboti Biosphere Reserve, offers a touch of luxury with wooden walkways and an infinity pool. Explore their hiking trails, kayaking and ziplining experiences, and campfires that share Guarani tales.
Boutique
Boutique hotels are characterized by their independence in both ownership and style, often manifesting as small, unique establishments. Some offer a home-from-home atmosphere, like Tierra de Leyendas Boutique Hotel, Ushuaia. Others, like the purpose-built and modern Home Hotel in Buenos Aires, embrace a quirky design. These boutique hotels are frequently found in cities and large towns, making them ideal for those seeking a central location. They provide a blend of friendly and professional service, and many boast superb on-site restaurants, offering the convenience of enjoying delicious meals without venturing too far from the hotel.
Home Hotel, Buenos Aires
Ecovillages and glamping
In an ecovillage or glamping experience, you can indulge in your own hut, airstream, or villa, accessible via charming pathways leading to your exclusive residence. These accommodations provide an excellent opportunity to connect with nature or immerse yourself in the traditions of your destination, often accompanied by some of the most environmentally conscious policies available. One notable example, among many, is Reserva Los Huemules, in Argentine Patagonia. Its distinctive round domes provide a unique way to feel immersed in nature without the concern of your tent blowing away. Los Huemules offers a variety of options to cater to different preferences, ranging from domes to tiny houses.
Hostal
Don’t worry, this doesn’t imply a youth hostel with 8 bunk beds per room and disturbances from unfamiliar roommates in the middle of the night! In this context, a ‘hostal’ roughly equates to a modest hotel, similar to a B&B (bed and breakfast). Typically small and independently operated, hostales include breakfast and often offer a unique charm, with decor that pays homage to the local area and traditions of the community. Attended by welcoming hosts, these accommodations provide a homely atmosphere.
Cabaña
A ‘cabaña’ translates to a cabin. These accommodations come in various styles, ranging from more rustic to chic, depending on the hotel and location. One of the significant advantages of cabins is that travelers can have their own space, whether as a couple or a family, while still having access to the hotel amenities. Cabins often feature a kitchen or kitchenette, a living space, bedrooms, and bathrooms. Staying in a cabin doesn’t mean sacrificing luxury; you can relish marvelous views across lakes and mountains, or even arrange for one of the hotel’s chefs to prepare a private dinner in your cabin!
I’m a landscape and travel photographer based out of Oakland California. At the forefront of landscape photography, I specialize in photography workshops, luxury fine art prints, and licensing. My work has been featured in Design Milk and Focus on the Story amongst many other avenues. Leading 25 – 30 photography workshops per year, I keep a busy schedule.
I grew up in Michigan and after graduating with a broadcasting degree and realizing I was a much better photographer than a musician, I packed up my van and headed to a little park known as Yosemite. There I would spend three and a half years working in the wilderness department for The Yosemite Conservancy. It was during those years that I deliberately made the decision to dive headfirst into the photographic rabbit hole for good. While working in the park, I spent much of my time lugging camera gear around the high country and hanging out with my friends at the Ansel Adams Gallery.
I currently reside in the SF Bay Area where I work as a photography instructor. My travels have given me the opportunity to photograph the Kiluaea eruption from air, as well as document dolphins in the Pacific Ocean. I’ve witnessed unbelievable light unfold before me and in an instant disappear. Those are the moments that I live for. I love sharing my passion for photography and nature with others and I’m grateful for the path that has to lead me here.
Feel free to reach out at any time if you would like to discuss a workshop, prints, or licensing.
ARTIST STATEMENT
Nature is at the heart of my work. Not only because it is often my subject, but because it is where I find inspiration. Human beings are spiritually connected to the planet as a whole. Interconnectivity is where the spirit thrives. Through photography, I remind the viewer of their connection to the earth. We do not own the planet; we are part of it. It is our responsibility to protect as well as enjoy our environment because it is an extension of ourselves. One cannot harm the environment without harming themselves, just as one cannot heal the environment without healing themselves. Imagery is a powerful tool; I use it to start the conversation of conservation. How will you help heal our home?
The hike to Cerro Torre offers a serene and tranquil alternative to its neighboring counterpart, the Laguna de Los Tres trail leading to Fitz Roy. Both hikes are essential experiences for anyone visiting Los Glaciares National Park.
The Trail
Located approximately 1km from the heart of the charming recreational town of El Chalten, the trail to Laguna Torre spans 18km (11 miles) and typically takes an average of 7-8 hours to complete, traversing easy to moderate terrain. The hiking portion itself accounts for about 5 hours, allowing ample time to relish the breathtaking scenery at Laguna Torre.
Along the way to the lake, hikers will encounter numerous picturesque spots worth exploring. Notable pit stops include Mirador Margarita, Mirador del Torre, and Mirador Maestri.
Mirador Margarita, situated just under a kilometer into the trail, treats visitors to panoramic vistas encompassing both Cerro Torre and Fitz Roy.
A bit further along the trail, approximately 2.5km (1.55 miles) in, lies the Mirador del Torre. This picturesque viewpoint offers stunning vistas encompassing everything from Cerro Solo to Cerro Torre and its neighboring towers, including Egger and Standhart.
The next destination on your journey is Laguna Torre—congratulations, you’ve made it! This idyllic spot is perfect for a leisurely lunch while soaking in the breathtaking views of Cerro Torre, Glacier Torre, and the pristine glacial waters of Laguna Torre.
The last viewpoint, Mirador Maestri, awaits further along the trail beyond the lake. While optional, this additional sightseeing opportunity offers remarkable views for those eager to explore further. To reach Mirador Maestri, continue northwest along the trail for approximately 2.2km (1.4 miles). From this vantage point, you’ll be treated to spectacular vistas of Glacier Torre, Glacier Grande, and, of course, Cerro Torre.
After the hike:
El Chalten offers an abundance of excellent eateries, ensuring that visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining options. This charming town boasts a diverse selection of cuisines, complemented by a range of craft beers. After a day on the trail, treat yourself to a hearty meal paired with a local beer or perhaps a glass of Argentina’s renowned wine as you unwind and savor the flavors of Patagonia.
What to bring:
Day pack
Water
Snacks + Lunch (these may be included in your tour)
Suncream + sunglasses
Don’t forget to pack warm layers! These will come in handy to keep you cozy and comfortable while enjoying lunch at the lake.
When to go:
November to March
Difficulty level:
Easy to moderate
The park teems with native flora and fauna unique to the Patagonia region. If you’re eager to gain deeper insights into the park’s wildlife, consider hiring a guide, as much of the wildlife can be challenging to spot on your own. Additionally, having a guide is advisable if you plan to visit the park outside of the summer months, as the weather can create challenging terrain conditions, warranting caution during exploration.
Ready to begin planning your trip? Connect with our expert local guides here, who can help you explore the area and make the most of your adventure!
