There are many varied, exciting and truly captivating books about Patagonia whether they deal with indigenous history, early exploration, modern travel or historical fiction. We are strong believers that by reading a few key pieces of literature before and during your trip, it will change your perception of this extraordinary corner of the world and enhance your whole Patagonian experience.
This is by no means a complete reading list to Patagonia but is meant to be used as a starting point. We have chosen six books as “must reads” and then added some of our other favourite titles below. If you need any help in where to source these books or have any other recommendations then we’d love to hear from you.
6 tops pick for Patagonian Literature
This Thing of Darkness (Harry Thompson, 2005) – the incredible tale of two hugely influential men – Captain Robert Fitzroy and Charles Darwin, the voyage of the Beagle and the plight of the native indigenous people of Tierra del Fuego. An excellent read for those that don’t want heavy history but a wonderfully told story.
Of Love and Shadows (Isabel Allende, 1987) – written by one of Chile’s most famous authors, her 2nd book, set during the dark days of the Pinochet dictatorship, tells the story for two journalists prepared to risk everything for justice and truth. (See section below for other recommended Allende books).
Mischief in Patagonia (H. W. Tilman, 1957) – an extraordinary story from a classic old British sailor and explorer of sailing the Atlantic, negotiating the Magellan Strait and crossing the Southern Patagonian Ice-field.
Travels in a Thin Country (Sara Wheeler, 2006) – a light hearted and entertaining read of travelling the length of Chile; the book also lends itself to giving gaining some background knowledge on Chilean history and culture.
Patagonia: A Cultural History (Chris Moss, 2008) – although quite heavy going this book is an extremely insightful and informative account of all things Patagonian from indigenous people, the Welsh to music and film and other travel literature.
- In Patagonia (Bruce Chatwin, 1977) – Of course no list is complete without this classic. In Patagonia, although more of a literary phenomenon then something hugely insightful about the kind of places you’ll see in Patagonia, has some wonderful descriptions of characters and experiences.
Other favourites to be read and enjoyed!
Early exploration
Across Patagonia (Lady Florence Dixie, 1880)
Where Tempests Blow (Michael Mason, 1931)
At Home with the Patagonians (George Chaworth-Musters, 1871) – Muster’s own tale of travels in Patagonia and living with the indigenous Tehuelche people during 1869.
Voyage of the Beagle (Charles Darwin, 1839)
Classic Travel Literature
The Old Patagonian Express (Paul Theroux, 1979) – a classic.
Motorcycle Diaries (Ernesto Che Guevara, 1952)
Modern Travel
The Trail to Titicaca (Ruppert Attlee, 2001)
Thunder and Sunshine (Alastair Humphreys, 2007)
Between Extremes (Brian Keenan & John McCarthy, 1999)
Bad Times in Buenos Aires (Miranda France, 1999)
Indigenous History
The Uttermost Part of the Earth (Lucas Bridges, 1948) – a captivating account of the early days of Ushuaia and life amongst the, now vanished, indigenous peoples of Tierra del Fuego.
Chilean & Argentinian Literature
Isabel Allende:
My Invented Country (Isabel Allende, 2003)
The House of the Spirits (Isabel Allende, 1985)
Daughter of Fortune (Isabel Allende, 1999)
Ines of My Soul (Isabel Allende, 2006)
Pablo Neruda:
Twenty Love Poems and a Song of Despair (Pablo Nerudo, 1924)
Jorge Luis Borges:
Labyrinths (Jorge Luis Borges, 1962)
