QUESTION: “What do you get when you mix several international flights, 60 mph headwinds, crowded vans, dirt roads, language barriers, and a dozen strangers?”
ANSWER: “An epic adventure to the Patagonia region of Argentina with several (soon to be) best friends!”
Recently, I returned from my first trip to the Patagonia region of Argentina — and honestly? The joint trip between the Young Life Community Network and the Latin American Division was the perfect mashup of my love for travel, my passion for the mission, and sharing the whole adventure with my kids.
Right from the start, I knew this trip was going to be something else. Talk about hospitality! In Buenos Aires, Jonatan (Jony) and Nadia Huarous welcomed us like we were old friends. Jony is the Young Life regional director in Argentina and Paraguay, and the Huarous’s passion for their faith and teenagers is inspiring. In Buenos Aires, we had the privilege of touring this beautiful, historic city. From bookstores and gauchos to soccer, their knowledge of the local culture brought every experience to life. I felt truly enriched after experiencing the stunning architecture, vibrant neighborhoods, and the rich history woven throughout the city.
Next, our group traveled to Patagonia for what became one of the most memorable parts of the trip. We spent several days hiking with a core group of 12 people. Although I knew only a few members of the group at the start of the journey, I came away with deep and meaningful friendships I’ll treasure for years to come. Walking and talking with someone felt like a lost art, and I was so glad to find it again on the trail. Through the joy of having a shared experience, our connections deepened in ways only trips like this can create.
All the hype about Patagonia is true. Between the massive glaciers and wide-open lakes; the condors, pumas, and Chilean flamingos; the jagged mountains and expansive vistas; you end up feeling pretty small. But in the best way possible.
But wait, there’s more!
The lodging: Our hosts absolutely nailed it. Every spot was beautiful and comfortable, designed perfectly to let the natural scenery take center stage.
The food: Consistently delicious, offering local flavors along with outstanding hospitality!
The attentiveness of the staff: Everywhere we stayed, people went above and beyond to ensure every detail was handled, making us feel welcomed and free to fully enjoy the adventure.
Young Life contends that camp is a “space” as much as it is a “place.” I was grateful for the “space” to think, breathe, pause, and reflect.
One of the greatest gifts was the opportunity to spend extended time with Jony, who traveled with us throughout Patagonia. Hearing Jony’s stories about Young Life’s ministry in Argentina and Paraguay changed things for me. Young Life stopped feeling like a big global organization and started feeling like family — personal and close-knit. Despite living in different countries and serving in different contexts, we shared the same passion and purpose. It was both humbling and inspiring to realize that while cultures, languages, and geography may differ, our mission remains the same.
The God we serve transcends time, space, and language, and his love reaches every corner of the world. Seeing this truth lived out through Young Life’s ministry in South America encouraged me in countless ways as I returned home.
Way more than just a bucket-list vacation, this trip was a total reset — a mix of new adventures, new lessons, and some of the best new friendships I’ve made in a long time. It was especially meaningful to witness and hear firsthand the dedication of leaders serving young people across Argentina. It’s a trip that will stay with me for a lifetime.
Simply put, a vacation became an education which ended as an inspiration.
Give me a few weeks and I will be ready for my next adventure with Young Life!
This trip to Patagonia is just one of many travel opportunities Young Life offers. Check out the Young Life Events Page to see what might be a great fit for you!
By Nanette Ballback
