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Tierra del Fuego
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 Ok, not mine nor from Patagonia, but it does have tierra and fuego! |
Is a rather large Island. However, most of the attractions lie on the southern side in Argentina. For reasons nobody can properly explain to me the island is divided in two, the western half being in Chile and the eastern half in Argentina. To further complicate things you need to past between the two countries to get around. The border post is a rather forlorn thing in the middle of nowhere. But once through that and into Argentina, the scenery slowly gets better. The last few k's into Ushuia is about as stunning a road as you will travel anywhere. Ushuaia is one touristy town, but quaint in its own way. It certainly has a stunning location, nestled between little mountains to then north and the beagle channel. Out to the west of town lies Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego, which is the main place that interests most hikers. There are many scenic and worthwhile day walks to occupy one, and using the central campsite as a base camp is a good way of seeing most of what the park has to offer. Walks along the coast are particularly good, with Albatrosses sweeping about like gulls. If you are looking for something a bit (lot) more taxing, the areas to the north are mountainous and unpopulated. Although different people seem to have different theories of what can and cannot be done, the reality is once you start walking your only restriction is your map and sense of adventure. I did a lovely stroll around the massif behind the mountains which took three days. Longer walks are possible. There is also a long walk east along the coast line. If you are motivated there is about three weeks of walking in and around southern Tierra del Fuego. The landscape is alpine in miniature. Little peaks, glaciers, cirques and lakes dot the landscape, and the bottom of the valleys is often boggy. Indeed, in some places they even mine the peat. |
| In the park, paths are good and well marked (give or take).The walking is largely easy, with the odd climb to view points. Still, being typical granny friendly day walks, it won't be too taxing. However, once outside the park its a different story. Paths don't really exist so its up to your navigation skills. There is a lot of mature forest and nasty bogs. River crossings will be fairly frequent, but not dangerous. A lot of walking can be above the snow line, which is only at 600M! Expect the odd scramble though. There are snow drifts year round, so be prepared. Ushuaia is a good for all supplies and normal facilities As well as having a large selection of comparatively costly hostels. In terms of trekking it's the logical base, and hitching here is OK. Maps for the park are available, but if you are going back country, can be a problem. Note there are restricted areas and Chile is legally off limits, although only a couple of kilometres away. |