We just booked tickets to South America from Australia for mid October, which is all very exciting. Now the planning begins.

We are flying in to Santiago and it was suggested to us to take a bus to BA via Mendoza for the scenery. Normally I wouldnt opt for a long bus ride but if its scenic and comfortable (suite class?) then Id be happy to. Is this worth doing?

We also have a week or so prior to heading to La Paz where we are hoping to head south to Patagonia to check it out. We arent looking to hike, and we dont want to camp. We are just looking for gorgeous scenery, glaciers, maybe take a boat ride somewhere, visit some smaller towns – Im not sure. Although Im well aware more time would be preferable, it isnt possible at this stage. No idea when we would ever be in that part of the world again, so itd be great to see it whilst we are there.

If we did head south, should we do it straight from Santiago or BA? Is the Santiago-BA bus through the Andes worth it if we head down to Patagonia for the views as well? Or would they both give a different experience?
Budget isnt TOO tight for this leg of the trip, but if we could spend 5-7 days down south for under $400usd each that would be ideal. Apologies if any of these questions are silly, I know next to nothing about S.A and Im only in the first researching stages.

Any other ideas are welcome!