Patagonia is the Southern region in South America that contain portions of Chile and Argentina. It houses low plains in the East and the most Southern portions of the Andes Mountains in the South and the West.
The large amount of rainfall from the Western Andes mixed with the temperatures of the low surface temperature contributes to the creation of ice fields and massive glaciers. In the hollow areas of the plains are many charming lakes, ponds and plenty of fresh water. Animal life is abundant here and vegetation is rich. It is truly a beautiful region.
Palena is a province in Patagonia that holds many parks and natural reserves including the Palena Lake National Reserve. The park can only be accessed by trekking or horseback riding and it is a highly protected area. Camping is permitted but campfires are never allowed.
Magallanes, another province is globally known for the Torres del Paine, Tierra del Fugeo Island, Cape Horn and Strait of Magellan. Due to the low population there is an enormous amount of animal life including penguins, condors and guanacos. Sheep farming, tourism and oil extraction are the main activities here and the region hosts the famous annual Patagonia Expedition Race.
The climate in this region is much more mild today than it once was for earlier settlers, yet it can still present some prevailing winds and plenty of rainfall. Due to the sad depletion of the valuable ozone layer located over the South pole, blindness and skin cancer in sheep in now a concern as well as health issues in other animals.
The cougar, guanaco, Brazilian fox and tuco-tuco are the common animals in the plains of the Patagonian region. Bird life is more than abundant here and it is considered a high valued area for bird watching to see such species as long-tailed green parakeets, flamingos, steamer ducks and darling hummingbirds often seen flying in the snow. Not a site you see very often! The Southern right whale, Orca, Magellanic penguin and elephant seals also live here and partly due to the rare species of animal and bird life here, parts of the region are considered a World Heritage site.
Mining, livestock, whaling, agriculture and oil are the area's primary economic activities. The production of energy is also very important to the economy of the local people.
Tourism became very important to the Patagonia's economy late in the 20the century. For a long time this area was only a backpacking destination but as the word spread on how beautiful this region is, many tourists now find their way here to see the Torres del Paine, Perito Moreno glacier, Ushuai and the Tierra del Fuego. Handcrafts, textiles and preserves are cherished here by visitors.
The cuisine of the region consists primarily of pasta and grilled meats using many locally grown ingredients in dishes. Deer, boar, trout and King crab are also popular here as well as a great appreciation and love for many tea rooms.
The Patagonian region is home to some of the most beautiful parks in the world with some of the rarest animals and plant life. Glaciers and volcanoes fill the landscaping here while the locals fill your heart.