Top Local Tips for San Martin de los Andes

Be careful about your rental car If you plan a long driving excursion in Patagonia, like we did, be very careful of the condition of your car. The distances are long and it is very, very undeveloped. So, upgrade your car. Spend a little more to get a car with a bigger engine, and try to get a new car that does not look abused. Also, check the air conditioning. During the summer (December, January, February), it can get hot anywhere in central Patagonia, including in the mountains. You will need the air conditioner. Be sure to get the rental agency's telephone number. Also, if we do this again (and we will as soon as we can), we will rent a satellite phone to take with us. It's not that expensive and if it turns out that you need it, it will be well worth the expense.

Perito Moreno Glacier The Perito Moreno Glacier is amazing and should not be missed on a trip to Patgonia! If you enjoy hiking, the Big Ice tour through Hielo&Aventura is awesome! It's US$130 for the day but is well worth it! It lasts from 7am to 7pm and you hike on the glacier for about 5 hours. They also offer less intense and less expensive tours called Mini Trekking and just the regular glacier tour (by bus and boat).