April 18, 2024
There's no greater gift than giving your children the opportunity to explore the world. As travel specialists, and parents, we understand firsthand the incredible value of travelling with children. Beyond visiting new places, it's about broadening their horizons to a world beyond what they know, offering experiences that will help them to learn, grow, and develop a sense of curiosity that will stay with them throughout their lives.
Chile and Argentina offer some of the most family-friendly destinations for a South American adventure with unparalleled opportunities to explore natural wonders, cultural heritage, and unforgettable experiences that promise to enrich, educate, and inspire.
Spending time outdoors fosters a deep appreciation for the beauty and complexity of our natural world, laying the foundation for a lifelong love of nature and a desire to protect it.
Chile's stunning and diverse geography, ranging from the arid otherworldly deserts of the north to the icy fjords of Patagonia in the south, offer children a rich environment to explore and connect with nature. In the north, the Atacama Desert beckons with its lunar-like landscapes and star-studded skies. Moving south, the Lake District entices outdoor enthusiasts with its pristine lakes, lush forests, and snow-capped volcanoes. Over 3500 kilometres off the coast of Chile, families can explore the archaeological wonders of Easter Island, visiting ancient ceremonial platforms, volcanic craters, and pristine beaches.
Argentina's natural beauty is equally diverse. Within Los Glaciares National Park, the massive Perito Moreno Glacier is known for dramatic calving events. In the northeast of the country, Iguazu Falls is a testament to nature's raw power and beauty, with its thundering cascades and lush rainforest surroundings. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Ibera Wetlands offer a chance to observe various animals, including caimans, capybaras, and an abundance of birdlife. Families can embark on boat tours, guided hikes, or horse-riding excursions to immerse themselves in this unique ecosystem and gain a deeper appreciation for the wildlife that thrives here.
Travelling provides children with countless opportunities to stay active and develop a love of adventure. Chile and Argentina are natural playgrounds with a wide range of outdoor adventures for the whole family to enjoy. Venturing beyond comfort zones and embracing new experiences together, it's a chance for families to disconnect to truly reconnect.
The Chilean and Argentinian Lake Districts are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for mountain biking, kayaking, and trekking amidst stunning volcanic landscapes and pristine lakes. Further south, Patagonia beckons with its rugged beauty and untamed wilderness. Families can embark on multi-day treks, horse riding, wildlife spotting, or boat tours to explore this remote and pristine region.
During the Southern Hemisphere winter, families can hit the slopes at world-class ski resorts. The gorgeous snow-capped Andes, the second-highest mountain range in the world, is a paradise for passionate skiers and snowboarders of all ages.
For families seeking deeper connections during their travels, food provides a fascinating and accessible gateway to experiencing a country authentically.
Cooking and sharing food is a cherished part of life in Chile and Argentina. Families take pride in their culinary traditions, and mealtimes are special opportunities for togetherness and connection, to slow down, and enjoy meaningful interactions with loved ones.
Families can discover a true taste of local traditions and flavours through unique culinary experiences that foster human connections while learning about the values, beliefs and customs of a destination. Gather around the table with new friends during a dining with-locals experience to enjoy a traditional home-cooked meal and a glimpse into everyday life, while cooking classes offer a hands-on opportunity to learn traditional recipes and techniques from local chefs.
Travel offers families the opportunity to learn first-hand about different cultures, history, and natural environments. Visiting national parks and protected areas like Los Glaciares National Park and Peninsula Valdes, and witnessing animals thriving in their natural environments, fosters a profound appreciation for biodiversity, and the opportunity to contribute to conservation efforts.
Outside of Iguazú, in the Misiones Rainforest families can discover the remarkable work of the Bayka Project. This vital ecosystem, boasting a rich biodiversity of both plant and animal species, is a top priority for protection and restoration efforts. By planting trees to offset your carbon footprint, you can help restore this precious habitat and learn about the importance of preserving unique ecosystems like this for future generations.
The Patagonian region of Argentina has become one of the most active areas of exploration for dinosaur fossils in the world. Families can delve into the region's fascinating geological and paleontological history through immersive experiences at archaeological sites, theme parks, national parks, and museums across the country that are sure to ignite curiosity and wonder in the hearts of children and adults alike.
Chile’s Atacama Desert offers breathtaking landscapes and a unique educational opportunity for children to learn about astronomy under one of the clearest night skies on the planet. Meanwhile, Easter Island's mysterious Moai statues provide a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Rapa Nui people.
As they explore new destinations, children encounter diverse customs, languages, and traditions firsthand. All these experiences are opportunities for us as parents to teach our children first-hand about the differences that exist in the world and to embrace differences as something that adds value and beauty to our lives.
Our selection of meaningful experiences go beyond the ordinary to create a positive impact while connecting families with local communities and cultures. For example, hands-on pottery workshops led by local artists make learning fun while encouraging creativity and self-expression. Guided visits to remote communities provide insight into their way of life, fostering a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity. Visiting a traditional estancia allows families to live and breathe the gaucho culture while discovering the beauty of Argentina's countryside. Surrounded by nature, kids can enjoy fresh air, open spaces, and activities like horse riding, and hiking, and even try their hand at some ranch chores.
Families have the choice of an array of accommodation options in Chile and Argentina, each offering its own unique charm. There are authentic estancias like Nibepo Aike in Calafate, El Bordo de las Lanzas in Jujuy, and Estancia Cerro Guido near Torres del Paine, plus unique biodiversity lodges such as Rincon del Socorro in Esteros del Iberá, Rincon Chico in Peninsula de Valdes, Bahia Bustamante in Atlantic Patagonia, Explora Parque Patagonia, and Pata Lodge in Futaleufú. Glamping sites like Pristine Camps in Los Glaciares National Park, Patagonia Camp in Torres del Paine, and Extraordinary Atacama, offer the perfect blend of indulgence and adventure, allowing families to unwind in style amidst some of the most stunning and surreal landscapes in South America.
We’re experts at family travel because we’re families ourselves. Our dedicated team of travel designers includes parents who understand firsthand the incredible value of travelling with children and what it means to travel as a family. However small or large, you can count on a personalised itinerary tailored specifically to your family's needs and interests filled with insider-access experiences guided by local experts to deliver the trip of a lifetime. Contact us today to start planning your next family adventure!