Hello Fodor’s travelers!

Has anyone here rented an RV and driven through Patagonia? My family and I will be in Buenos Aires for a wedding at the end of May, and we’re considering a Patagonia trip in mid-May. I know it can get pretty cold that time of year, so I’m trying to figure out what’s realistic.

One idea we’re looking at: fly from Buenos Aires to Bariloche, rent an RV, then drive south through the Lake District and continue down toward Perito Moreno, and finally fly back from El Calafate to Buenos Aires. I’ve done an RV trip in Iceland, but I have no idea how the roads and weather typically are in mid-May in this region. Is this route doable, or is it kind of crazy?

Our other option is to keep it simpler and just explore the Lake District: Bariloche, Villa La Angostura, San Martín de los Andes, El Bolsón, and Esquel.

We love nature and outdoor activities like hiking (not too intense), kayaking, and easy-to-moderate trekking. I’ve also seen some beautiful estancias nestled in gorgeous scenery where you can do horseback riding and similar activities, which sounds amazing. It would be my husband and me (in our 50s) plus our two sons (19 and 22). We’re thinking about 7 days total.

Any feedback, tips, or “don’t do that” warnings would be super appreciated!