Perito Moreno Glacier – Fitz Roy Mountain Range – Torres del Paine National Park – Lake Viedma – Laguna Nimez Reserve – Los Glaciares National Park – Cueva de las Manos – Cerro Torre – Magellanic Penguin Reserve
Trip Duration: 7-10 days
Climate: Patagonia offers a unique and invigorating climate, with summer temperatures averaging between 50°F and 70°F, ideal for exploring its stunning landscapes. While sunny days and cool breezes are common, the weather can be unpredictable, with sudden shifts that might bring strong winds, light rain, or even a dusting of snow. This dynamic climate adds to Patagonia’s adventure, making every visit an unforgettable experience in one of the world’s most breathtaking natural settings.
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia on a science-focused educational journey designed for high school students. Our immersive tours offer hands-on learning in environmental science, glaciology, biodiversity, and geology, with expert-led activities across iconic sites like the Perito Moreno Glacier, the Fitz Roy Mountain Range, and Torres del Paine National Park. Students will engage in ecosystem studies, conservation projects, and sustainable tourism practices, deepening their understanding of climate change, natural sciences, and environmental stewardship in one of the world’s most pristine natural laboratories. Join us for an unforgettable adventure that connects scientific discovery with real-world impact.
Buenos Aires
Torres de Paine, Magallanes y la Antártica Chilena, Chile
LOS GLACIARES NATIONAL PARK
CERRO TORRE
CUEVA DE LAS MANOS
LAKE VIEDMA
LAGUNA NIMEZ RESERVE
Click to view - Patagonia Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Buenos Aires and Introduction
- Morning: Arrive in Buenos Aires; brief city tour and overview of Argentina’s geography.
- Afternoon: Orientation meeting, discussion on Patagonia’s importance to global science (climate, biodiversity).
- Evening: Group dinner, rest before early flight to Patagonia.
Day 2: Fly to El Calafate – Perito Moreno Glacier (Glaciology and Climate Science)
- Morning: Early flight to El Calafate. Transfer to Los Glaciares National Park.
- Afternoon: Perito Moreno Glacier visit with a glaciologist guide. Students learn about glacier formation, dynamics, and its role as a climate indicator.
- Activities: Ice trekking (with gear and guides) and close-up observations of glacial melting patterns.
- Evening: Group reflections on the impact of climate change on glaciers.
Day 3: Explore El Chaltén – Mountain Ecosystems and Biodiversity
- Morning: Transfer to El Chaltén, known as the hiking capital of Argentina.
- Introduction to mountain ecosystems, local flora, and fauna.
- Afternoon: Guided hike in Fitz Roy Mountain Range. Discuss species adaptations and the importance of protected areas.
- Evening: Stargazing activity to observe Patagonia’s night sky and discuss astronomy and the impact of light pollution.
Day 4: Lake Viedma – Glacial Geography and Earth Science
- Morning: Lake Viedma excursion, boat tour, and visit to Viedma Glacier.
- Activities: Learn about glacial erosion and deposition, study of geological formations, and rock sampling.
- Afternoon: Field workshop on identifying and analyzing rock samples from glacial landscapes.
- Evening: Group discussion on geological time and its importance in understanding Earth’s history.
Day 5: Wildlife Conservation and Ecosystem Studies
- Morning: Excursion to Laguna Nimez Reserve to study native bird species (e.g., flamingos, black-necked swans).
- Afternoon: Visit an eco-reserve or research station focusing on Patagonian conservation efforts, specifically the Andean condor and other native species.
- Activities: Observe local species and learn about conservation projects, biodiversity monitoring, and the impacts of human activity.
- Evening: Reflection on human influence and conservation strategies.
Day 6: Trekking and Environmental Science in Torres del Paine (Chile)
- Morning: Cross into Chile and explore Torres del Paine National Park.
- Discuss topics like ecosystem diversity, sustainable tourism, and environmental stewardship.
- Afternoon: Guided hike with an ecologist; students observe and record species in different biomes, from grasslands to wetlands.
- Evening: Overnight in Torres del Paine, discussion on the importance of preserving biodiversity hotspots.
Day 7: Volcanic Geology and Natural Hazards
- Morning: Study of volcanic landscapes in the area. Learn about tectonic activity and how it shaped Patagonia’s geology.
- Activity: Geological walk to observe volcanic rocks and discuss natural hazards related to tectonic activity.
- Afternoon: Workshop on mapping fault lines and understanding the Pacific Ring of Fire.
- Evening: Reflections on how geological features influence ecosystems and biodiversity.
Day 8: Return to El Calafate and Fly Back to Buenos Aires
- Morning: Transfer back to El Calafate, final reflections on the scientific findings and experiences.
- Afternoon: Fly back to Buenos Aires, closing group dinner.
- Evening: Presentation of student projects, sharing of observations, and discussions on lessons learned.
Day 9: Departure from Buenos Aires
- Morning: Return flight home.
Academic Themes Covered:
- Climate Science and Glaciology: Glacial changes and their implications for global climate.
- Biology and Biodiversity: Adaptations of species, ecosystem roles, and the importance of biodiversity.
- Geology: Tectonic processes, volcanic activity, glacial erosion, and rock formations.
- Conservation and Sustainability: Human impact, conservation projects, and sustainable tourism practices.
Is there something else you would like your students to experience on this trip? Let your trip specialist know and we will add it to the itinerary or replace another activity with the activity you choose.
Included in your journey
Custom Itinerary
IMJ Tour Director
Activities
Flights
Accommodation
Meals
You may also be intersted in these educational jOurneys
