You’ve heard of Patagonia the brand, but did you know it’s named after a real place in southernmost South America? This region is well known for it’s gorgeous terrain and diverse population. But is it a country of its own?
Patagonia is not a country. It is a region that spans over two countries. The area of Argentina is where 80% of the population lives and it’s considered a province. The Chilean side has less than 50,000 residents due to its harsh terrain, although there are some small towns on the coast.
Today we’re going to look at Patagonia as a whole, what you need to know before visiting, and highlight some things to do while you’re there.
Where Exactly Is Patagonia?
Patagonia is located in the southernmost part of South America. It’s made up of two countries: Argentina and Chile. The region spans over a total area of about 620,000 square kilometers- making it one of the largest regions on the continent!
Who Lives There?
The population living in Patagonia varies depending on where you are in the region. Argentina’s Patagonia is home to around two million people, while Chilean Patagonia has a population of just over 300,000.
There are also “Patagonians” who are the people who live in the southernmost region. This population is a mix of indigenous peoples and Europeans.
What Is The Climate Like?
The climate in Patagonia varies depending on the season and which country you’re in. Generally speaking, it’s a temperate climate with cool winters and mild summers.
How Do You Get There?
Getting to Patagonia is not too difficult, but it’s important that you do your research before visiting the area! It takes long flights to get there and often requires a flight transfer in another country like Chile or Brazil first. Plan ahead so you know where you’re flying into, how to get to your destination and what currency you’ll need. Also check for any relevant travel advisories.
What Currency Is Used in Patagonia?
Currency in Patagonia varies depending on which country you’re visiting. In Argentina, the currency is pesos, while in Chile it’s Chilean pesos. Make sure to have some of both currencies on hand just in case!
What Language Do They Speak?
The predominant language spoken in Patagonia is Spanish. However, there are also pockets of indigenous people who speak languages like Mapudungun and Quechua. It’s important to do your research before visiting so you know what to expect!
When Should You Go?
Determining when to visit Patagonia is a personal choice. However, if you want to experience Patagonia in the summer, it’s best to go between December and February since this is when temperatures are at their highest!
If you want to check out the glaciers, the best time to go is between October and March. If you want to avoid the crowds, aim for May or September!
What Is Chilean Patagonia Like?
Icy glaciers and whipping winds characterize the landscape of Chilean Patagonia. Much of the land is jagged and craggy. There are unihabited islands, lumbering glaciers, and vast steppes. The climate is cool to cold with short summers and long winters.
There are towns you can visit that were originally settled by Germans . There are also Welsh, Spanish, and British communities.
The region is home to many species of wildlife including foxes, whales, sea lions, penguins, pumas (mountain lions) and condors.
It you are a nature lover, you will find a lot to love in Chilean Patagonia.
What Is Argentinean Patagonia Like?
In Argentinean Patagonia, the landscape is characterized by rolling hills, green grass and open spaces.
The region is home to many beautiful lakes, glaciers and rivers.
You’ll find towns in the center of Argentina with German heritage such as Bariloche which was settled by Germans in 1934 during a wave of immigration from Europe .
If you’re heading there for outdoor activities like hiking, climbing or skiing then this is a destination for you.
What Towns Should Someone Visit in Patagonia?
Some of the towns you should visit in Chilean Patagonia include Punta Arenas, Puerto Natales and Torres del Paine.
When visiting Argentinean Patagonia, popular towns to check out include El Calafate, Bariloche and Ushuaia.
You’ll experience a range of activities, traditions and landscapes in these towns. In Puntas Arenas, for instance, you can explore glaciers, in Puerto Natales you can go hiking in the Torres del Paine National Park and in Bariloche you can enjoy beautiful mountain scenery.
Conclusion
It’s almost fitting that Patagonia isn’t a country, for it is a region that you cannot begin to classify as homogeneous. The area is so vast and diverse, it’s hard to sum it up as one “land” or one “people.” But if you’re looking for an outdoor adventure in a strikingly beautiful landscape, then Patagonia should definitely be on your list of places to go.