Patagonia is a beautiful, unspoiled region located at the southernmost tip of South America. The landscape includes glaciers, mountains, fjords and forests. Additionally, Patagonia is home to many unique wildlife species including penguins, seals and whales.
One of the best ways to explore Patagonia is by taking a cruise. It allows you to take in all the scenery and wildlife. You can also stop at different ports to explore on your own or go on excursions. But before you go on your Patagonia cruise, you should know a few things.
Choose the Right Time of Year to Travel
The best time to visit a Patagonia island is during the austral summer which runs from December to March. During this period, you’ll have the best chance of seeing wildlife including penguins, seals and whales. The weather is also relatively mild, with average temperatures in the low to mid-60s Fahrenheit.
Plus, the austral summer usually has longer days, so you’ll have more time to explore Patagonia’s stunning landscapes. Hence, your cruise expedition will surely be more enjoyable. If you’re planning a trip to Patagonia, be sure to book your cruise during the austral summer!
Be Prepared for Changeable Weather
Even during the summer, the weather in Patagonia can be unpredictable. It can be sunny one minute and rainy the next. Or you might experience all four seasons in one day. That’s why it’s essential to be fully prepared for changeable weather conditions when planning a cruise to this region.
One way to do that is to pack for all seasons. That means bringing a raincoat, warm jacket, and hat, even if you’re traveling during the summer. It would help if you also pack comfortable walking shoes since you’ll likely be doing a lot of exploring on your trip.
Another way to be prepared for the weather is to choose a cruise itinerary that avoids the roughest conditions. For example, you might want to avoid sailing through the Drake Passage known for its rough seas.
Of course, no matter how well you plan, there’s always a chance that the weather will be less than ideal during your cruise. But, by being prepared and knowing what to expect, you can still have a great time and probably the best cruise expedition ever.
Pack your Patience
Since you’ll be on a cruise ship for most of the trip, you’ll need to be patient with the people around you. In addition, there will be long lines for food and at the bathroom, so make sure you’re prepared to wait.
Also, there’ll be times when staying on the ship will be mandatory, like during bad weather or when the ship is docking. Some cruise lines may not offer much in terms of activities during these times, which can test your patience.
You may get bored but try to find something to do to pass the time. Read a book, talk to your fellow passengers or take a nap. Whatever you do, don’t let the boredom get to you because it’ll do you no good and will only make your cruise less enjoyable.
Get Ready for Some Adventure
Patagonia is an outdoor lover’s paradise. There are many opportunities for hiking, kayaking and other activities. Another thing: you can explore glaciers, mountains and forests. Plus, the wildlife is also fascinating. You can see guanacos, condors and penguins.
And to ensure you’re ready for some adventure in Patagonia bring the right gear for hiking, camping and other outdoor activities. Doing so will make your experience much more enjoyable. The following are some of the must-have items for your Patagonia adventure:
- Hiking boots
- Waterproof jacket
- First-aid kit
- Sleeping bag
- Binoculars
Don’t Forget your Camera
You’ll want to take many pictures of Patagonia’s stunning scenery and wildlife. And to do that, you must bring a good camera. It could be a DSLR, a point-and-shoot or even your smartphone.
Capture the landscapes at Torres del Paine National Park, the Perito Moreno National Park glaciers and the Tierra del Fuego National Park penguins. You can even try your hand at astrophotography – Patagonia is one of the best places in the world to see the stars.
When packing your camera gear for Patagonia, one thing to keep in mind is the weather. The region can be unpredictable with strong winds and sudden temperature changes. Thus, pack accordingly and keep your gear safe from the elements.
Final Thoughts
For your Patagonia cruise adventure to succeed, plan and pack accordingly. Why? Because you’ll spend time in some of the most remote, beautiful and wild places on Earth. You don’t want anything to ruin your trip and you certainly don’t want to be unprepared. So, remember the tips outlined in this post and you’ll be on your way to a fantastic Patagonia cruise.
