rpm, thanks for posting.

For others' information, here is what rpm posted in the Picture Gallery with his pictures:
Originally Posted By: rpm
A few people sent me messages asking questions about my rei Patagonia trip. It was a two week trip in both Argentina and Chile. We basically stayed at small towns or villages for a few days and did days hikes each day. My favorite town was El Chalten. A few of the days were spent driving between national parks or hiking locations. I also went on the rei Everest base camp trip a couple years ago. The Patagonia trip was much easier and more "touristy". We had a great guide/driver, there were a total of 14 people in the group.

The cost of the trip was 5K+plus plane tickets. This trip is very doable on your own and would be much less expensive. The national parks do not require permits for hiking and backpacking, but that will probably change soon. The campgrounds used by backpackers were overcrowded and not very attractive in some locations.

If you want a really intense trip, there is a loop trip that include the ice cap on the west side of Fitz Roy.