Lakes & Volcanoes of Chile and Argentina

Argentina and <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/latin-america/chile">Chile</a> share two sides of the Andes, slicing a boundary through the lake and volcano region. My recent memories from being here are filled with the joy of connecting with nature and exploring the landscapes, especially the area around the lakes, where you can kayak, raft down a lazy river, and even fish.Another favourite memory? The truly warm and authentic local hospitality — it feels like everyone’s doors are open to you, especially when you're welcomed to share a Patagonian roast lamb with chimichurri sauce and a local craft beer! I’ve always felt a genuine desire from the locals to share their culture with visitors on my many visits.There’s also something special about being in a different part of <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/trip/bespoke/patagonia-bespoke">Patagonia</a>; never mind the imaginary ‘border’ of Chile and Argentina, Patagonians, by nature of living in one of the remotest regions on earth, define themselves not by country, but by dint of living in this incredible region. Here are some important things to know about this part of the world.

<h3>The Andes Mountains</h3>The longest continental mountain range in the world, the mighty Andes are 7,000 kilometres (4,300 miles) long, spanning seven countries: Venezuela, Colombia, <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/latin-america/ecuador-galapagos">Ecuador</a>, <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/latin-america/peru">Peru</a>, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina. These mountains form the ridge that traces the western contours of <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/latin-america">South America</a>. In the world’s highest mountain range outside of <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/asia">Asia</a>, the highest elevation is Mont Aconcagua in Argentina, at 6,961 metres (22,838 feet) above sea level. The fauna number 3,500 species, with two-thirds of them endemic to the mountain range. There are nearly 600 species of mammals, over 1,700 species of birds, over 600 species of reptiles, and nearly 400 species of fish.

<h3>Villarrica Volcano</h3>On the Chilean side of the border, the Villarrica Volcano sits on the shore of Villarrica Lake (and the town of Villarrica, along with a national park). Close to the town of Pucón, Argentina, this is one of Chile’s most active volcanoes, also known to the Mapuches as Rucapillán, the ‘devil’s house’. You will see its snow-covered cone, likely with plumes of smoke and steam rising from its top. There is an intermittent lava lake found at its centre. It recently erupted in 2015, causing evacuations. One popular activity is climbing the volcano, which depends on the ever-changing weather conditions. The trek takes about 3-5 hours, clad in crampons and snow gear. On the way back down from the summit, you can toboggan all the way down!

<h3>Bariloche</h3>The largest city in the region, with a population of just over 100,000, Bariloche (the full name of the town: San Carlos de Bariloche) is nestled between the southern shores of Nahuel Huapi Lake and the foothills of the Andes. South America’s largest ski resort is located here, with skiing, trekking, mountaineering, and other outdoor pursuits to be had. If you look around, you may be surprised to see Alpine architecture, a nod to the region’s European heritage, as many <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/europe/germany">German</a> immigrants settled here in the late 1800s from Germany, Austria, <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/europe/slovenia">Slovenia</a> and more — hence the many chocolate shops and fondue establishments!A curious footnote to all this is that in the waning days of the Second World War, then-president Juan Peron’s ties with Germany meant that a number of former Nazis ended up living in Bariloche (including Josef Mengele, who spent some time in Bariloche before heading to Brazil, and SS commander Erich Priebke, who lived here for fifty years and was later extradited to Italy in the mid-1990s after being discovered).

<h3>The Mapuche People</h3>The Mapuche indigenous people have been around since at least 600 years BCE, and are the most numerous first peoples in South America, with a population of more than 1.5 million. Most Mapuche live in south-central Chile, southwestern Argentina and parts of present-day Patagonia. There was conflict as the <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/europe/spain">Spanish</a> conquistadors arrived in the 16thC through 18thC, with much resistance from the Mapuche. As the Spanish gave way to Chilean independence, the Mapuche were moved to reservations and their traditional lands used for agriculture, with some land disputes continuing to this day.A collection of various groups of people linked by their common language, Mapudungun, Mapuche means ‘the people of the earth’. Truly connected to the land, much of the culture features healing ceremonies and the use of traditional herbal medicine. There are traditions of the Mapuche shaman, known as a machi (usually female), who performs ceremonies to heal and ward off enemies or evil. There is also a rich tradition of textile-making (woven blankets or ponchos) that is passed down from one generation to the next, along with silverwork due to trade with Spaniards and Chileans.

<h3>Nahuel Huapi National Park</h3>The oldest national park in Argentina, established in 1934, Nahuel Huapi National Park also one of the largest in the region, encompassing several ecozones in the foothills of the Andes and Nahuel Huapi Lake. The altitude of the park rises up to 3,574 metres (11,726 feet) and spans nearly 2 million acres of land. From white-topped peaks that feature year-round snow, this is the perfect place to explore the lakes, rivers, waterfalls, glaciers and deep forests of the Andes. On its western side, it's bounded by the Chilean border.

<h3>Nahuel Huapi Lake</h3>Located in the lake region of northern Patagonia, and within the Nahuel Huapi National Park, this vast glacial lake takes its name from the Mapuche language, meaning “Island of the Jaguar.” A Jesuit mission was established here from 1670-1673, and another one in 1703, destroyed in 1717 due to a local dispute. There are seven branches in this lake, along with two islands: Isla Victoria and Isla Huemul. The lake is stocked with non-native fish (rainbow, brown and brook trout) ideal for recreational fishing, along with other outdoor activities like kayaking. According to legend, there is a giant cryptid living in the lake, called ‘Nahuelito’, and its sightings reportedly predate Nessie. In nearby Chile, the Puyehue-Cordón volcano complex (of four volcanoes) erupted in the year 2011, blanketing the lake’s surface in volcanic ash for a brief time.

<h3>Yerba Mate and tea culture in Argentina</h3>The national drink of Argentina, the highly caffeinated herbal tea, yerba mate, is derived from the ground leaves of the plant ilex paraguariensis, actually a member of the holly family. Rich in caffeine as well as antioxidants, cholesterol-lowering properties and vitamins B1, B2 and C, it is considered a healthy drink with medicinal properties by indigenous South Americans.First cultivated and consumed by the indigenous Guarani people in Southern Brazil, the drink's popularity spread with <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/europe">European</a> colonization. Jesuits were the first to successfully commercially cultivate it (although they first tried to ban it in Argentina).&nbsp;The tea is traditionally served loose-leaf in a hollow gourd and drunk through a perforated metal straw called a bombilla. The gourd is passed around to each person for a communal drink and refilled continuously. Being highly caffeinated, it is often drunk as a morning beverage. You’ll also find a variation of yerba mate called mate cocido, which is brewed from a tea bag and served with milk and sugar.In Buenos Aires and in the <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/trip/small-group/wales-walking">Welsh</a> regions of Patagonia, a fascinating mash-up of <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/europe/united-kingdom">British</a> and Argentine tea culture has sprung up with tea sandwiches and a late afternoon ritual, following the British tradition.<h2>Where to Stay</h2><h3><a href="http://llaollao.com/en/">Llao Llao Resort, Bariloche</a></h3>The most exclusive resort in Argentine Patagonia, Llao Llao boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding lakes, forests, and the soaring Andes mountains. A magnificent indoor and outdoor pool, 18 holes of golf, and an amazing spa are just some of the amenities on offer at this grand hideaway.

<h3><a href="http://lasbalsas.com/en/">Las Balsas Hotel</a></h3>The prestige of this Relais &amp; Chateaux property, set amidst the breathtaking Patagonian landscape, is an opportunity to encounter Argentina at its natural best. Las Balsas is a haven for those who seek the serenity of wide open spaces, whether finding refuge in the hotel’s spa or pursuing a more active agenda in the surrounding countryside.

<h3><a href="https://www.andbeyond.com/our-lodges/south-america/chile/lake-district/andbeyond-vira-vira/">Hotel Vira Vira</a>&nbsp;</h3>Set in a marvellous park and surrounded by stunning volcanoes, Vira Vira sits proudly on the shores of the peaceful Liucura River. Its gourmet restaurant uses fresh produce from the property’s farm to design the daily menu. The cozy ﬁreplace is the perfect spot to curl up with a glass of Chilean Carmenère in the evenings.

Marvel at the Andes Mountains and hike the peaks of Patagonia on a custom adventure with B&amp;R. Get in touch with Experience Designer, <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/meet-the-designers/stephanie-gulledge">Steph Gulledge</a>, today.

Discover Argentina and Chile’s lakes and volcanoes region—from glacial lakes and Andean peaks to Patagonia’s scenic routes, outdoor adventures, and local culture.

Argentina Lakes & Volcanoes | Patagonia’s Scenic Lake District Guide

Discover Latin America

Latin America captivates with its vibrant cultures, rich character and incredible landscapes.&nbsp;&nbsp;From Costa Rica to Peru to Uruguay, Butterfield &amp; Robinson has been exploring the wonders of the region since the early 1970s—sharing our experiences and best-kept secrets with our travellers. It’s a place perfectly suited for active adventure with no shortage of things to see and do.&nbsp;Marvel at the Andes Mountains, hike the peaks of Patagonia and the Inca Trail to Machu Pichu, explore the biodiversity of the Amazon or wind down at a secluded beach. Enjoy vibrant nightlife, a burgeoning wine scene and fine cuisine. Admire art and architecture, and of course, dance!&nbsp;

Where adventure and wonder thrive

Cycle Patagonia and Chile's wine country, walk Inca trails and Costa Rica's forests on small group or private bespoke trips across Latin America, since 1970.

Latin America Bike & Walking Tours | Butterfield & Robinson

Want sumptuous meals, world-class wines, old-world charm and zero jet lag? Bienvenido a Chile. Here, quiet roads through the countryside open up into epic ocean views along the spectacular coast. Picnics, barrel tastings and a cooking demo from one of the country’s top chefs reveal a culinary culture worth savouring. And the futuristic Vina Vik inspires all kinds of awe.

Exceptional Wines

One-of-a-kind Hotels

Breathtaking Landscapes

Wedged deliciously between the Andes and the Pacific, Chile’s wine country pairs adventure with a splash (or two) of vino. Pedal scenic countryside roads with Pacific panoramas and indulge in dreamy picnics, barrel tastings and chef-led culinary wizardry. We've convinced our winemaking friends to spill their secrets, so bring your thirst for adventure, your refined palate... and maybe stretchy pants.

A country of opposites

Experience the rhythm of Chile

Want sumptuous meals, world-class wines, old-world charm and zero jet lag? Bienvenido a Chile. Here, quiet roads through the countryside open up into epic ocean views along the spectacular coast. Picnics, barrel tastings and a cooking demo form one of the country’s top chefs reveal a culinary culture worth savouring. And the futuristic Vina Vik inspires all kinds of awe.

Spend 6 nights cycling Chile's world-class wine valleys in a small group. Casablanca Coast estates, private vineyard tastings and Pacific Ocean views on

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A land of dusty colonial towns and sparkling beach resorts, of rough-and-ready gauchos, subtle artists and festive plazas—this is the Uruguay we know and love. We begin in the country’s capital, Montevideo, before working our way east to cycle the peaceful countryside, stroll white-sand beaches and sip wine with local producers. Venture through the undulating green of the “Uruguayan Tuscany,” with its vineyards blanketing verdant hills, to Punta del Este, a shining, glass beacon of South American summer. Our journey wraps up in Jose Ignacio, a refined hamlet on the Atlantic coast, whose serene and sandy streets make this former fishing village the stuff dreams are made of.

Nestled between Brazil and Argentina, Uruguay is a land where sandy beach towns beckon artists in search of serenity, and vineyards rival those of France and Italy. Explore the best of this tiny country on two wheels and two feet as you bike in a private sculpture park, paddle through wetlands and cook alongside a celebrity chef. With secluded beaches, encounters with local artists and unforgettable culinary delights, you'll be planning your next visit before you even leave.

Authentic Food

Great Walks

In the Wild

Uruguay may be small, but it punches well above its weight in charm. Pedal through a private sculpture park, paddle peaceful wetlands, and cook with a celebrity chef who knows the secret to a perfect parrilla. From beachside art scenes to vineyard sips, this stylish little country serves up serenity, culture, and serious bragging rights.

South America's Best-Kept Secret

The itinerary below is a sample and is subject to slight changes in routes, accommodations and activities. Please download the itinerary for your selected departure for precise details.

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Want to see Machu Picchu after the tourists have gone? We find the best way is to sleep next door at the stunning Sanctuary Lodge. During waking hours you’ll explore the ruins of the Sacred Valley and hike the cloud forests of the Inca Trail before hopping the Hiram Bingham Train back to Cusco for a final night dinner in an ancient Incan palace.While this is a once-in-a-lifetime, bucket-list activity, the Inca Trail itself is a challenging hike without any options for easy-outs or modifications. There is no road or helicopter support, making rescues challenging and reserved for emergencies.

Unforgettable Experiences

Welcome to the Sacred Valley, where llamas have the right of way and ancient Incan echoes still bounce off the ruins. Hike past soaring peaks to Machu Picchu the proper way—on foot—then toast your triumph. Cap it off with a ride on the Hiram Bingham train. Epic? Absolutely. Otherworldly? You’ll see.

Discover the Lost City

A land of striking contrasts, discover Peru

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Spend 4 nights hiking to Machu Picchu in a small group with a guide who knows exactly when to arrive before the crowds. The Inca Trail, done right.

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Vibrant Culture

Active Adventure

Unique Gastronomy

Uruguay is a land of rhythm and soul. From the pulse of Candombe drumming to the vision of world-class artists and vintners, this land blends heritage and creativity in every corner. Bike past lagoons, explore lively neighbourhoods, and savour fire-kissed feasts with legendary chefs, including the renowned Francis Mallman. Discover a country where every moment feels personal, spirited and alive.

Spend 6 nights in Uruguay in a small group cultural tour. Montevideo's colonial waterfront, Atlantic dune cycling and Jose Ignacio's luxury estancia scene.

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A kaleidoscopic array of colour and adventure awaits in this biodiverse wonderland. Float through cloud forests, marvel at volcanoes and waterfalls and tune into nature’s symphony as it comes alive with the sounds of the jungle: this is Costa Rica. See it your way on a private, tailor-made trip.

Off the Beaten Path

Eco-Luxury Escapes

Costa Rica doesn’t do passive. Hike volcanoes, chase waterfalls and paddle jungle-lined rivers with howler monkeys cheering you on. Sip coffee at the source, snack on just-made chocolate and spot sloths between spa sessions. With cloud forests, private safaris and pure Pura Vida energy, this is adventure, dialled to your exact taste.

Embrace Pura Vida at every turn

Experience Pura Vida

Bespoke travel lets you take our inspirational cues and craft them into your personalized, private adventure. Collaborate one-on-one with an Experience Designer to put together your tailor-made trip.

Zip-line cloud forests, surf the Pacific and raft rainforest canyons on a tailor-made Costa Rica journey. Privately guided adventure, built for you.

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Regional Expertise

Peru is a place of staggering contrasts and vivid moments. Trace ancient footsteps to Machu Picchu at sunset, wander colonial streets in Cusco and find out why Lima is a global food capital. Cruise through the Amazon’s tangled beauty, watch macaws cut through the jungle sky and meet tradition head-on at Lake Titicaca. This is Peru—layered, living and endlessly compelling.

Bespoke travel lets you to take our inspirational cues and craft them into your personalized, private adventure. Collaborate one-on-one with an Experience Designer to put together your tailor-made trip.

Hike the Inca Trail, bike the Sacred Valley and eat at Lima's finest restaurants on a tailor-made Peru itinerary. A private Machu Picchu journey worth

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Rich History & Culture

Local Connections

Authentic Flavours

This is Peru at its most extraordinary. An intimate passage through ancient Inca citadels, sacred Andean valleys and one of the world's most celebrated culinary scenes. From the bohemian streets of Lima and a private dinner at Kjolle to a trek along the legendary Inca Trail, a sunrise at Machu Picchu and the golden colonial streets of Cusco, every day brings a deeper connection to the living culture, ancient spirituality and breathtaking landscapes that make Peru unlike anywhere else on Earth. A limited edition journey designed to be experienced on its own or combined with Part Two as the ultimate Peruvian grand journey.Extend your adventure with <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/trip/small-group/peru-where-the-andes-meet-the-amazon">Peru: Where the Andes Meet the Amazon.</a>

Explore Peru's most iconic destinations on a private luxury tour. Trek the Inca Trail, discover the Sacred Valley, visit Machu Picchu, and uncover the ancient capital of Cusco — with exclusive local connections, private guides, and extraordinary culinary experiences throughout.

Wildlife & Nature

Authentic Tastes

From the depths of the Colca Canyon to the elegant colonial streets of Arequipa and deep into the heart of the Peruvian Amazon, this is the side of Peru that few ever get to see. Watch condors soar above one of the world's deepest canyons, dine privately within the candlelit cloisters of a 16th-century monastery, and spend three extraordinary nights aboard Aqua Nera—exploring remote river systems, ancient communities and the staggering biodiversity of the Amazon Basin. A limited edition journey designed to be experienced on its own or combined with the first chapter of this ultimate Peruvian grand journey.Start from the beginning with <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/trip/small-group/peru-inca-trails-culinary-masters-andean-rituals">Peru: Inca Trails, Culinary Masters &amp; Andean Rituals.</a>

Explore the Colca Canyon, colonial Arequipa and the Peruvian Amazon on a luxury small group tour. Watch condors soar above one of the world's deepest canyons, discover Arequipa's 16th-century Monastery of Santa Catalina, and cruise the Amazon River aboard the elegant Aqua Nera.

Colca Canyon, Arequipa & Amazon River Cruise Luxury Peru Tour

Argentina will enchant you with its craggy mountains, cascading waterfalls, sapphire lakes and rugged glaciers. The array of the land, from the north to the south wildly differs. From the remote Salt Flats of the north, to the vast and rugged corners of Patagonia in the south. The people are incredibly diverse, from the countryside cowboys (gauchos) to the sophisticated tango-dancers (Porteños) of vibrant Buenos Aires. With such distinction, comes rich culture, tantalizing history and sinfully delicious food. Argentina is your place to dive deep and explore.

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Argentina Bespoke | Butterfield & Robinson

Undiscovered Gems

Nature's Wonders

Great Hikes

Panama is the travel world's hidden gem in Central America—jungle calls, pirate tales and birdlife that belongs on a runway. Sip fresh coffee with howler monkeys, kayak through rainforest rivers and unwind in jungle-chic glamping or coastal luxury. From cloud forests to Caribbean coves, Panama packs a punch—and lets you claim bragging rights before the crowds catch on.

Jungle adventures and beach bliss in Central America's hidden gem

Hike Boquete's cloud forest, dive Panama's Caribbean reefs and explore a historic canal city on a custom itinerary. Privately guided, built for you.

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Uruguay is a discreet but exquisite blend of beauty, simplicity and luxury that places focus on quality over quantity. This is a land of dusty towns and sparkling beach resorts, rough-and-ready gauchos, subtle artists and festive plazas. Every day is different here and the diversity of landscape is unparalleled. With its up-and-coming wine industry, glamorous hotels and emerging arts scene, experience for yourself a tiny country that packs a big punch. Below are some ideas to inspire your trip.

Hamptons of the South

Uruguay is South America’s best-kept secret—think barefoot luxury, boho beach towns and gaucho grit with a glass of Tannat in hand. Wander art-filled villages, dine seaside under the stars and soak in a culture that’s quietly sophisticated and wildly charming. Small in size but big on soul, Uruguay doesn’t shout. It simply winks.

Big fun in a small package1

Big fun in a small package

Bike Uruguay's Atlantic coast from Punta del Este to José Ignacio's luxury ranches. South America's most unexpected country, tailor-made and privately guided.

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Great Bikes, Great Rides

From desert to glacier and vineyard to volcano, Chile is adventure in widescreen—with a splash of world-class wine in between. Hike Patagonia’s jaw-dropping peaks, raft the Futaleufú or bike through rolling vines before kicking back under the star-packed sky. With bold landscapes, bolder flavours and lodges to match, Chile doesn’t just impress—it impresses upon you.

Reasons to believe

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Chile Private Tours: Atacama Nights, Andean Trails & Award-Winning Wines

Patagonia is where adventure whispers—loudly. Think jagged peaks, gaucho trails and silences big enough to get lost in. Hike past glaciers, watch condors cruise overhead and feel the edge of the world beneath your boots. Then hit Buenos Aires or Santiago for a tango-fuelled culture fix. Wild, vast and utterly unforgettable, this place is equal parts thrilling and humbling.

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Here, you can sail into a turquoise cove with no other boats in sight, walk barefoot down a powdery white beach, sit yourself down on lava rock and watch a baby sea lion sneak up for a closer inspection. A pantheon of the animal kingdom's strangest and most wonderful creatures await just off the coast of Ecuador, and here, you'll get closer to them than you ever thought possible. Discover Ecuador &amp; the Galapagos Islands on a private, bespoke trip—tailored-made your way. Here are a few ideas to help get you started.

Land of Striking Contrasts

Ecuador is a land of bold contrasts—snow-capped peaks, steamy jungle, and islands lost in time. Wander Quito’s cobbled colonial streets, then unwind in a mountainside hacienda with a glass of wine and panoramic Andean views. Drift through the Amazon under a canopy alive with monkeys and macaws. In the Galápagos, &nbsp;sea lions, iguanas and giant tortoises share the stage in nature’s greatest showcase. From highlands to islands, this is Ecuador in all its wild, wondrous glory.

Explore the land that stirred Darwin and turned science on its ear

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From Quito's cloud forest to Galápagos wildlife on a tailor-made Ecuador journey. Private island access, expert naturalist guides and landscapes most trips

Lakes & Volcanoes of Chile and Argentina

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