Patagonia is an epic destination, perfect for celebrating a milestone—and for Peter Bonnell’s 40th birthday, he did just that. His group toured the Perito Moreno Glacier, paddled through Ushuaia National Park, and did plenty of trekking around El Chaltén with trailside views of iconic peaks and glacial lakes. Hear more about Peter’s adventure and check out his photos below.
**Name:** Peter Bonnell
**Home Country:** United States
**Destination:** Patagonia
**Travel Specialist:** Maria Szlafsztein
**Tell us a bit about yourself. What’s your travel style?**
Peter Bonnell, a traveler hailing from the United States, describes his travel style as one driven by a thirst for adventure. He seeks unique and immersive experiences that go beyond the typical tourist trail. For Peter, travel is about engaging with the destination on a deeper level. He enjoys activities such as trekking through challenging landscapes, witnessing breathtaking sights that leave a lasting impression, spending quality time connecting with local communities, and daring to try new and exotic foods that tantalize the taste buds.
When planning his journey, Peter envisioned a classic Patagonia trip, packed with exhilarating outdoor activities, awe-inspiring glaciers, and visits to iconic locations such as El Chaltén. Finding memorable hotels that offered comfort and charm after long days of exploration was also important to him. He wanted an itinerary that balanced adventure with moments of relaxation and reflection.
**What made you decide to seek local expertise for your Argentina trip?**
The decision to enlist the help of a local expert for his Argentina trip was an easy one. Peter recognized that the sheer vastness and variety of options within Argentina, specifically in Patagonia, could be overwhelming to navigate without insider knowledge. He wanted to make the most of his time and ensure he experienced the best the region had to offer.
Peter specifically sought out Maria Szlafsztein to be his travel specialist because she lives in Buenos Aires and frequently travels to Patagonia. Her firsthand experience and deep understanding of the region made her the ideal person to guide him. Throughout the months of planning, Maria proved to be incredibly patient and helpful, offering valuable insights and suggestions. Her accessibility and support extended beyond the planning phase, as she remained readily available during the trip itself, providing assistance and answering questions as needed.
Furthermore, having local tour guides who could point them to off-the-beaten-path sights, unique culinary experiences, and authentic cultural encounters truly enhanced the entire trip, allowing for a more enriching and unforgettable adventure. They got to see and experience parts of Patagonia that they wouldn’t have found on their own. Places far away from the usual tourist crowds.
**What are the most memorable moments from your Argentina trip?**
For Peter, one of the most unforgettable moments from his Argentina trip was the all-day hike in El Chaltén. The meticulously planned route took him and his travel companions from El Pilar, a charming village nestled in the mountains, down past the magnificent Piedras Blancas glacier, a river of ice that carved its way through the landscape, and finally to the breathtaking Laguna de los Tres, a stunning alpine lake. Standing in the shadow of the majestic Fitz Roy range, surrounded by such unparalleled natural beauty, was an experience that left him speechless. It was a test of endurance, but the reward was worth the hard work.
**Do you have advice for travelers interested in doing a trip like yours?**
Peter’s advice for travelers considering a similar trip is simple: listen to the experts! He emphasizes the importance of trusting the knowledge and experience of local specialists like Maria. He specifically highlighted how Maria took the time to truly understand his preferences – his passion for hiking, his desire to see the classic highlights, and his overall travel style. Based on this understanding, she crafted an itinerary that perfectly balanced organized tours of iconic sites such as Perito Moreno, Estancia Cristina, and the Beagle Channel with several unscheduled days for spontaneous exploration and challenging hikes, planned in consultation with locals and their knowledgeable guides.
**Would you recommend this trip? Is there anything you would change if you could do it again?**
Without hesitation, Peter wholeheartedly recommends this trip. He describes Patagonia as absolutely stunning, emphasizing that each of the seven days was more incredible than the last. The dramatic landscapes, the diverse wildlife, and the warm hospitality of the local people created an unforgettable experience.
If he were to do it again, Peter would add a visit to Torres del Paine National Park, another jewel in Patagonia’s crown. He would also dedicate an additional half-day in Ushuaia to visit the penguins, a wildlife encounter he unfortunately missed during his initial trip.
**Last but not least, where are you going on your next trip?**
Iceland!
B-2024