Argentina’s varied climate and terrain create the ideal environment for a variety of species. In fact, it’s home to more than 10% of the world’s flora. Argentine Patagonia is famous for its rugged beauty, massive glaciers, towering mountains, and windswept plains. Patagonian flora showcase remarkable adaptability and resilience, reflecting the diverse microclimates and ecological niches found throughout this breathtaking landscape. During our time together, we’ll travel along famous Route 40, the longest route in Argentina, crossing from north to south parallel to the Andes mountains. There will be time to stop and explore local floral hotspots along the way.
This 14-day immersive botanical journey to Argentina is hosted by Panayoti Kelaidis, Director of Outreach & Senior Curator at Denver Botanic Gardens, and renowned Argentinian botanist Marcela Ferreyra. Join them for an unforgettable deep dive into the flora of Patagonia.
Since 1980, Panayoti Kelaidis has represented Denver Botanic Gardens in educational, professional and promotional endeavors as an expert in horticulture. He also acts as a liaison to botanical societies, professional horticulture organizations and green industry members. He helped create Plant Select®; designed and implemented numerous gardens; and has led tours to Asia, Europe and South Africa. He works with rock garden, perennial, native plant and succulent societies nationally and internationally, and has served on the boards of horticulture societies. Panayoti has received numerous awards, including the 2000 Arthur Hoyt Scott Medal from the Scott Arboretum and the 2003 Liberty Hyde Bailey medal of the American Horticultural Society, two of the highest honors in American horticulture.
Marcela Ferreyra first visited the mountains of Patagonia in 1992. That experience inspired her to move to Bariloche and write her college thesis on high mountain flora. Now a retired Biology Sciences Professor, Marcela continues to explore and conduct botanical research in Patagonia. Her ground-breaking studies have led to multiple publications. A highlight of her career is the publication of a unique and complete study of the high-altitude plants of the region. Marcela continues to be an inspiring teacher, conservationist, and engaging botanical guide.
If you prefer private, single occupancy accommodations, add $1320. We will do our best to pair solo travelers wanting to share. If a roommate is not available, the supplement will apply.
Arrival to Comodoro Rivadavia airport. Plan to arrive by 12 pm local time. After hotel check in, we’ll head to Punta Marqués Protected Natural Area. Marked trails offer stunning views of the entire marine coastline of southern Chubut with countless beaches and cliffs. This will be our first introduction to local flora. The preserve is also home to a year-round population of Patagonian sea lions.
Accommodations: Lucania Palazzo or similar
Meals: Dinner