WHAT TO DO WHILE IN PATAGONIA? – El Chaltén

WHAT TO DO WHILE IN PATAGONIA? – El Chaltén

WHAT TO DO WHILE IN PATAGONIA?

 EL CHALTÉN, SANTA CRUZ – ARGENTINA

 El Chaltén is a small town located within Los Glaciares National Park in the province of Santa Cruz. It is a popular destination for climbers and hikers from all around the world. Its many trails lead you to fantastic views of Cerro Fitz Roy, Cerro Torre and the neighboring glaciers and lagoons that embellish this corner of the world. Chaltén, which in Tehuelche means smoky mountain, relates to how clouds cover the tip of these “macizos” most of the time.

The most visited trails for eager hikers are Laguna de los Tres, Cerro Torre & Mirador Maestri, and Laguna Capri. You’ll also have the option to visit other trails such as the one that leads you to Huemul Glacier or Piedras Blancas Glacier.

Here is a list of treks you can enjoy while visiting El Chaltén.

SHORT TREKS

Los Cóndores & Las Águilas Viewpoints

Duration: 45 mins

Glaciar Huemul

Duration: 45 mins

*For this trek you have to pay an entrance fee.

Chorrillo del Salto

Duration: 30 mins

LONGER TREKS

Mount Fitz Roy & Laguna de los Tres

Duration: approx. 4 hours one way

Cerro Torre

Duration: approx. 3-4 hours + 1 hour to get to Mirador Maestri

Laguna Capri

Duration: 2 hours

Some popular organized tours:

– Lago and Glaciar Viedma (boat tour + optional trek to the glacier)

– Lago Del Desierto (car or minibus tour from El Chaltén + optional boat tour)

– Rafting in Río De las Vueltas Canyon.

THE LONGEST TREKS

For the following longer treks it is advisable to go with a guide:

Circuito Huemul: Paso del Viento – Paso Huemul

Laguna Toro- Paso del Viento

Where to stay?

• Hostel Rancho Grande
• Hostería Vertical Lodge
• Hostería El Paraíso

Where to eat?

• Cúrcuma: Get ready to try the delicious alternatives Cúrcuma offers! You can either sit down and eat in the cozy little place or grab something delicious and nutritious for your active day in the trails!
• La Vinería
• La Cervecería
• B&B Burgers
• Patagonicus

Insider Tips:

El Chalten is the mecca for climbers in Patagonia. In the summertime, expect lodging to be very booked and main trails to be packed.

Internet is spotty! El Chalten is famous for slow wifi and limited cell service.