Boasting some of the most dramatic landscapes on planet earth, the shared territory of Patagonia is a breathtaking destination for those who appreciate true natural beauty.

From soaring mountains and glaciers to petrified forests and pristine lakes, this bordering region of Argentina and Chile is truly one of the prettiest places in South America, and if you want to see it all during your next holiday, we think the best way to do so is on a self-drive trip.

The beauty of self-drive travel is that you have the freedom and flexibility to come and go as you please. Suitable for every type of traveller, from singles and couples to larger groups of family and friends, this type of trip can be customised to suit everyone, and all you need is a bag of clothes, a well-planned route, and a fully insured rental car to enjoy many of the highlights that Patagonia has to offer.

In an ideal world, you should allow at least three weeks to get the most out of your Patagonian adventure.  Driving along the quintessential Carretera Austral and Route 40, you can take a self-drive expedition to the Argentinean Lake District, the beautiful city of Bariloche, the world-famous glacier of Perito Moreno and the Torres del Paine National Park, where magnificent landscapes and spectacular scenery comes as standard.

Those who enjoy outdoor activities will find numerous options available during their tour of Patagonia. The Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park offers fantastic hiking trails and water activities such as rafting and fishing, extreme adventures such as white-water rafting are on offer in Futaleufú, and those looking for something slightly less energetic can enjoy horse riding through the pampas of Argentina’s Estancias.

By opting for a one-way journey, there is no need to rush, and you can simply drop the car in Punta Arenas at the end of your trip. A quick visit to Ushuaia for a boat trip along the Beagle Canal will add the finishing touch to your Patagonian adventure, before you head on home with a mind full of beautiful memories and a camera full of impressive shots.