Santa Cruz contains most of the Argentinian side of Patagonia, with some of the world’s most spectacular icy sights. Snowy mountain peaks and glaciers with a blue-silver tint decorate the fierce-looking countryside of the scenic region. Visit the main towns and test yourself against the harsh wilderness.
Stroll along the picturesque trails of Los Glaciares National ParkOpens in a new window in the Austral Andes. Wander through the dense forests and walk around the circumferences of majestic lakes. Marvel at Perito Moreno GlacierOpens in a new window, which is one of the most scenic sights in the world. Listen to the roar of the cracking ice and walk on the glacier with cleats.
Among the largest lakes in the park is Lago Argentino, which is a popular spot for fishermen searching for perch and rainbow trout. Spot the pink glow of a flock of flamingos huddling on the lake. Go sailing on the lake for spectacular views and stay at Estancia Cristina for a serene trip. Explore the Walichu Caves beside the lake’s shore to see the fascinating hand paintings by Paleolithic humans from 4,000 years ago.
Visit the city of El CalafateOpens in a new window to see its quaint residential houses with gold and red façades. Admire the sleek, modern design of the Glaciarium and enter to peruse the exhibits about ice in nature.
Trekkers will love the village of El ChalténOpens in a new window, about 125 miles (200 kilometers) to the north of El Calafate. Wander through the meandering valleys surrounding the immense Viedma Lake. Climb to the Laguna Capri viewpoint to look down on the glorious lagoon and capture photos of the jagged mountain peaks surrounding the water.
The province takes up a large portion of southern Argentina, between the districts of Tierra del FuegoOpens in a new window and ChubutOpens in a new window. It borders southern Chile and is parallel with the offshore Falkland Islands. Fly to El Calafate Airport from Buenos AiresOpens in a new window and other parts of the country. Note that summers is this region tend to be warm with occasional heat waves, while winters see freezing temperatures with snow and ice.
Santa Cruz is a place of historic intrigue and a winter wonderland with its national park of lakes and glaciers.