South America is full of varied cultures, stunning landscapes, and incredible experiences. From breathtaking mountains to inspiring cities, this 10 day South America itinerary will help you explore the best of this magnificent continent. Discover must-see highlights, interesting activities and tips for making your South American adventure unforgettable.
Last year, I planned the most epic trip through Argentina and Chile and am excited to share my 10 day South America Itinerary with you! We knew we wanted to visit Chilean Patagonia to hike the iconic W Trail through Torres del Paine and of course, I wanted to relax a little so we tacked on a few days in Mendoza wine country. It was an experience of a lifetime and I can’t recommend this luxury itinerary enough for your vacation to South America.
This itinerary will hit all of the best highlights in my opinion, but leaving you wanting to return to explore everything else this continent has to offer. I loved South America so much and look forward to going back one day. Whether a South America honeymoon, family trip, or couples getaway, this is the perfect way to plan your trip to Argentina and Chile.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Overview – Argentina and Chile 10 Day Itinerary
- How to Get To South America
- How to Travel Between Countries in South America
- Climate in South America
- Stop 1: Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Stop 2: Mendoza, Argentina
- Stop 3: Santiago, Chile
- Stop 4: Chilean Patagonia
- How to Pack for a Trip to Argentina and Chile
- South America Itinerary FAQ & Travel Tips
Argentina and Chile 10 Day Itinerary
Here is an overview of what you can expect throughout this blog post. I’ll then break down each stop with logistics like where to stay and what to do.
- Day 1 – 2: Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Day 3 – 5: Mendoza, Argentina
- Day 6: Santiago, Chile
- Day 7 – 10: Patagonia, Chile
How to Get To South America
For this trip, I recommend flying in and out of either Buenos Aires or Santiago. We flew into Buenos Aires (EZE) and departed from Santiago (SLC). I’ve laid out this itinerary as it worked for us, but you could totally do it in reverse starting with Chile and ending in Buenos Aires. This way was cheaper at the time and best suited the hotel availability for us.
With one of the largest airports in South America, Buenos Aires is easy to reach via their two airports. EZE is the main international airport located about an hour from the heart of Buenos Aires and AEP is the regional airport located along the coast about 20 minutes away. We flew into EZE from ATL aboard Delta and took AEP for our domestic flight to Mendoza wine country via Jet Smart.
To reach Torres del Paine, you will fly into the Patagonia Chile airport in Puerto Natales called Teniente Julio Gallardo Airport (PNT). There are direct flights from Santiago to PNT most of the year, but they do diminish in the winter months. You can easily fly via LATAM Airlines or SKY Airlines with direct flights or a short stop in Puerto Montt (PMC).
How to Travel Between Countries in South America
So, there are definitely a lot of flights involved in this trip, but it is easier than it seems. There are several short and inexpensive flights between Argentina and Chile and within each country.
Here was our flight path for reference:
- Arriving to Buenos Aires: ATL to EZE
- Transfer from Buenos Aires to Mendoza: AEP to MDZ
- Mendoza to Santiago for stopover: MDZ to SLC
- Santiago to Patagonia: SLC to PNT
- And on the way back home: PNT to SLC to ATL
You could take public bus transportation, but it would take much longer so the cost vs time analysis is up to you.
Climate in South America
In the Southern Hemisphere, their seasons are opposite for those of us in the Northern Hemisphere. You will likely want to travel during their summer months for the most comfortable weather conditions especially for Patagonia – November through mid-March. Patagonia is very far south, close to Antarctica! It can be very cold and you will see glaciers!
Buenos Aires and Mendoza are doable for any season, but I would choose their Summer or Fall – November through May. The harvest season in Mendoza is typically in March so this is a great time to see the vines full of grapes!
Our trip was March 9-20 and the weather was great. Mendoza was very warm in the 80’s during the daytime, Buenos Aires was cooler in the 70’s, and Patagonia was 50s during the day.
Stop 1: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Begin your South American adventure in dazzling Buenos Aires, the home of tango, incredible architecture and of course, steak! Take a tour of the iconic La Boca neighbourhood, stroll along the historic cobblestone streets and soak up the vibrant culture that has made this city famous.
You will spend two nights in Buenos Aires giving you ample time to see the top sites in this incredible city.
Where to Stay in Buenos Aires
Alvear Palace Hotel
The Alvear Palace hotel is a 5-star luxury property featuring neoclassical architecture and decor that takes you back to the grandness of the 1930’s. The building is incredibly ornate and a favorite among high society and celebs in Argentina. We loved the comfortable rooms, rooftop bar, lounge deck, and spacious fitness center. We could easily walk anywhere we needed which was great since traffic was a nightmare!
Palacio Duhau Park Hyatt Buenos Aires
Palacio Duhau – Park Hyatt Buenos Aires is the perfect choice for luxury and comfort. Situated in the elegant Recoleta neighborhood, this luxurious five-star hotel features spacious guestrooms that combine modern elegance with style. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities including a fitness center, spa services and an outdoor pool. Guests who have booked the Royal Suite can experience exclusive perks such as access to a private wine cellar and 24-hour butler service!
Four Seasons Buenos Aires
Four Seasons Buenos Aires provides a one-of-a-kind experience in the city. The hotel is located in the upscale neighborhood of Recoleta and features stunning views of Plaza San Martín as well as easy access to all the popular attractions. Guests are welcomed to spacious, modernly decorated suites with luxury amenities such as flat-screen TVs and Wi-Fi. Other facilities include a spa, fitness center, rooftop pool, fine dining restaurant and more.
We love Four Seasons and always try to stay here, but this one didn’t seem quite as walkable to places we wanted to visit.
Things to do in Buenos Aires
Where to Eat in Buenos Aires
I was blown away by the amazing chefs in Buenos Aires. Check out everywhere we ate and wanted to eat if we had more time.
Stop 2: Mendoza, Argentina
On day three, you will check out of BA and take a short flight from AEP (regional airport) to Mendoza for a relaxing few days tasting their famous Malbec! You will stay in Mendoza for three nights before departing for Chile.
Mendoza has 300 days of sun per year so you can’t go wrong visiting year round. Typically the best months to visit Mendoza are October – April. They do get snow in the winter time (our Summer months)!
Where to Stay in Mendoza
I suggest staying in the remote Uco Valley, however, downtown Mendoza is also amazing with easy access to restaurants, wineries, and the airport. Uco Valley is about 1.5 hours driving from downtown Mendoza, but absolutely worth it to stay in this unique area.
The Vines Resort and Spa
We chose to stay in the exclusive Uco Valley at The Vines Resort and Spa. The Vines is a 5-star hotel and the ultimate luxury retreat for your stay in wine country. Located on a vineyard at the base of the Andes Mountains, you’ll love this magical backdrop it provides to your adventures. With only 22 spacious private villas, this intimate paradise is the perfect spot to call home in Mendoza.
Casa de Uco Vineyards and Wine Resort
Case de Uco Vineyards and Wine Resort is an upscale 4-star resort with picturesque views of the Andes Mountains. The facilities blend harmoniously with their natural surroundings and the rooms offer panoramic views over the vineyard and mountains. There are several different rooms, suites, and villas to choose what works best for your needs and budget.
Park Hyatt Mendoza
We considered staying in downtown Mendoza and looked at the Park Hyatt Mendoza. It is a 5-star hotel housed in a 20th century French neoclassical facade. Located in the main downtown it is easy to see everything throughout Mendoza with this as your home base. The property also includes a spa and casino.
Things to Do in Mendoza
Where to Eat in Mendoza
The food in Mendoza was incredible. Check out all of my favorite restaurants and wineries to make dinner reservations in this post. Top three suggestions:
- Cundo Altamira
- Siete Fuegos
- Zuccardi’s Finca Piedra Infinita
What to Wear to a Winery
Be prepared with cute and comfortable outfits for wine tastings.
Stop 3: Santiago, Chile
On Day 6 you will arrive in Santiago, Chile for a quick stopover before reaching Patagonia. If flights allow, you can go straight to Puerto Natales. However, we were always forced to have a night in Santiago. I do wish we had another day to explore the city more than we did! I have a whole list of things I wanted to see and places to eat.
Where to Stay in Santiago, Chile
The Singular Santiago
We loved staying at the super trendy The Singular in Santiago Chile. It is a luxury hotel in a great location with an amazing rooftop restaurant and bar. We only stayed one night, but would absolutely return next time so we can explore the city.
Things to Do in Santiago
Some of the top attractions to see in Santiago if time allows.
- La Moneda Palace – presidential palace
- Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino – Pre-Columbian Art Museum
- Parque Metropolitano de Santiago – huge park
- Plaza de Armas – beautiful city square
- Barrio Bellavista – bohemian neighborhood with artists, markets, restaurants
- Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral
Best Restaurants and Bars in Santiago
Some of the top restaurants in Santiago for dinner or drinks.
- Bocanariz
- The Singular Restaurant
- Borago
- Ambrosia
- Osaka
- Lolita Jones
Stop 4: Chilean Patagonia
On day seven, you will arrive in Chilean Patagonia where you will stay for four nights.
Where to Stay in Patagonia Chile
Awasi Patagonia
The ULTIMATE in luxury hotels is Awasi Patagonia. Managed by Relais & Chateau and named a Leading Hotel of the World, Awasi will blow you away with their first class service, cuisine, and friendly staff.
Each guest is assigned a guide throughout their stay who will map out your days with the best hikes or activities suited to your expectations. In addition, they pack meals, snacks, and drinks so you can enjoy some fabulous picnics before, during, and after your adventures.
There are 14 villas each overlooking the famous towers of Torres del Paine. Your villa will feature a fireplace in the living area, king sized bed, and bathroom with standup shower and soaking tub. However, my favorite feature is the outdoor wood-burning hot tub! There is nothing more necessary than getting to soak your muscles after a long day on the trail.
The Singular Hotel Patagonia Chile
If Awasi is not your speed, I also suggest The Singular Hotel in Puerto Natales. It is closer to town and only 5 minutes from the airport so it is a great option. We stayed at The Singular in Santiago and loved it! This is a luxury hotel brand popular throughout Chile.
Things to do in Patagonia Chile
Below, check this post for all the things to do in Patagonia besides hiking. There’s biking, horseback riding, puma searching, fishing, barbecues, gaucho culture, spas, and more!
Best Hiking in Patagonia Chile
The best hikes in Chilean Patagonia to put on your bucket list. You will definitely want to see Glacier Gray, the base of towers in Torres Del Paine, and Laguna Azul.
Where to Dine in Patagonia Chile
Some of the amazing restaurants around the area.
How to Pack for a Trip to Argentina and Chile
It is always hard to pack when you experience two different climates. Layers will be your best friend! I packed some casual dresses for Buenos Aires and Mendoza along with light jackets, sandals, and wedges. For Patagonia, you will be hiking and need lots of layers, plus gear. Check out my full guide for everything I packed for Patagonia.
And my guide for winery outfits!
South America Itinerary FAQ & Travel Tips
Finally, I am sharing common questions and answers when planning an itinerary to South America. Feel free to ask me anything else in the comments – I’m happy to help!
We ended up booking at the last minute and it was not easy to coordinate logistics between countries and around hotel availability. Definitely book in advance! Do as I say, not as I do.
I suggest writing out your itinerary while checking hotel availability and flights. Including all of the little connecting flights! You may need to make adjustments depending on flight patterns. Once it all lines up, start booking. Secure your international flights first, then all of your hotels, and lastly the regional flights. Later, make reservations for any restaurants or activities. You can also click here to see how I plan an international trip!
I could have definitely spent a couple more days in Patagonia (but I say that about every trip). We spent 3 full days and hiked all of them. Another day or two to simply relax or do more low key activities like visiting a traditional estancia would have been perfect in my opinion.
Patagonia is a region split between Argentina and Chile in the southernmost part of South America. You can visit either side (or both) and see totally different things!
Argentine Patagonia is much larger in size with many things to do. It is known for the Perito Moreno Glacier which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. In addition, there are many popular things to do like: Argentina Lake District, El Chalten, El Calafate, and Mount Fitz Roy.
Chilean Patagonia is most well known for Torres del Paine National Park and the iconic W Trek. It is smaller in size, but you are able to see a lot more different things from the unique landscape of fjords, channels, archipelagos, and glaciers.
Customs in Argentina and Chile
Most everyone speaks Spanish or Portuguese in Patagonia and throughout Chile. However, everyone we encountered also spoke English.
They primarily speak Spanish in Argentina and not everyone can speak English. We noticed it most with servers at restaurants. Most menus are also not translated so you’ll need to use your phone. Google Translate app really came in handy for us!
Tipping of 10% is pretty common at restaurants in both Argentina and Chile. There will not be a tip line on your check though so be prepared to leave cash in pesos or dollars. They happily take USD dollars since it is worth more right now.
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