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 are some treks you can enjoy while visiting El Chaltén.
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
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.
WHERE TO STAY & EAT
- Hostel Rancho Grande
- Hostería Vertical Lodge
- Hostería El Paraíso
- 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
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.
