Hi -

We are planning our third trip to Chile. In the past, we have visited Santiago, Valparaiso/Vina del Mar/Isla Negra, Central Valley wine country and Atacama.
This trip we plan to go to TDP and ???. Trying to decide what the other half of the trip will be - probably 10 days total. I was wondering if visiting the Lake District and Chiloe either before or after TDP would make sense. Would love some ideas from some of you.

Thank you in advance.

There are a few things you can include that eat up a few days around Punta Arenas and Puerto Natales in addition to excursions within TDP. E.G, a day trip on the Cutter Turismo 21 de Mayo from Puerto Natales, a half day visits to penguin colonies (Magdalena Is and Tierra del Fuego) from Punta Arenas. Punta Arenas town center has a few sights.

Another option might be looking for an Australis cruise between Punta Arenas and Ushuaia along the Beagle Channel, after finishing with TDP. Return travel from Ushuaia to Punta Arenas is problematic so be sure to look into the options out of Ushuaia to your final flight home. Most likely if you fly you are routed via Buenos Aires so you could also overnight there if interested.

I would recommend visiting the Lake District and Chiloe before TDP would be a great option, Start in Puerto Montt, the gateway to the Lake District. You can hike to waterfalls, kayak on the lakes, and enjoy the local cuisine (especially the seafood!) After a few days in the Lake District, take a ferry to Chiloe Island, and from Chiloe, head south to TDP, where you can spend several days hiking, camping, or taking day trips. Once you've enjoyed TDP, consider visiting the nearby town of Puerto Natales, which has some great restaurants and cultural attractions. Depending on the time and budget you have left, you could also consider visiting other destinations in Patagonia, such as El Calafate and the Perito Moreno Glacier, Good luck with your planning!