Travel to the "End of the World," Patagonia

Covering an area the size of Texas and containing a frontier much wilder, Patagonia clings to the bottom of South America, arching icily toward Antarctica. Patagonia's pristine landscape shifts from expansive pampas dotted with gaucho ranchers to ancient forests with frigid fjords.

The icy gem of Argentina's Patagonia is Perito Moreno, one of the 47 glaciers within Glacier National Park. Covering nearly 100 square miles and containing the world's third largest fresh water reserve, Perito Moreno is one of the most accessible glaciers on the planet. Travelers can trek across it or view it by boat from the base of a 200-foot face. Across the border into Chile, Torres del Paine National Park offers thrusting granite pillars, turquoise lakes frosted with icebergs, and rewarding hiking opportunities.

More than just stunning scenery, Patagonia is packed with hardy wildlife and an interesting human history. Penguins populate the shoreline while whales swim among icebergs. Inland, sheep outnumber people and travelers can stay at traditional estancias, rural ranches that once drove Patagonia's economy but now provide comfortable and authentic accommodations.

Thanks to Deensel for the title image of this blog.