THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Board a boat across Lake Argentino, climb into 4x4s and hike 14 km through a 170‑million‑year‑old fossil canyon to a rare Upsala Glacier lookout. This full‑day expedition combines rugged tracks, exposed fossils and sweeping glacial views.
Board a boat across Lake Argentino, climb into 4x4s and hike 14 km through a 170‑million‑year‑old fossil canyon to a rare Upsala Glacier lookout. This full‑day expedition combines rugged tracks, exposed fossils and sweeping glacial views.
A low wind skims Lake Argentino as the boat eases toward the rocky shore at Estancia Cristina; gulls wheel and the mountains watch. From there a fleet of 4x4s climbs a rutted track into the Feruglio range, depositing small groups at an elevated ridge where the hike begins with a broad sweep over Lago Guillermo and the distant blue ice of Upsala Glacier.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Estancia Cristina · El Calafate, Santa Cruz Province
A low wind skims Lake Argentino as the boat eases toward the rocky shore at Estancia Cristina; gulls wheel and the mountains watch. From there a fleet of 4x4s climbs a rutted track into the Feruglio range, depositing small groups at an elevated ridge where the hike begins with a broad sweep over Lago Guillermo and the distant blue ice of Upsala Glacier.
The route follows glacially scoured terrain and eroded trails that expose marine fossils laid down roughly 170 million years ago. Cañadón de los Fósiles is a classroom in stone: layered muds, fossilized shells and compacted seabed rise like pages turned by ice and wind. The region sits within Los Glaciares National Park, an area shaped by Pleistocene glaciers and later ranching culture — Estancia Cristina itself dates to the early 20th century and still operates as a working estancia and visitor gateway.
Expect broad panoramas, shifting colors in the canyon walls and a steady descent through formations that reveal Patagonia’s oceanic past. Wildlife is sparse but persistent; guanacos and soaring condors are regular companions.
Practical guidance: this is a full-day, strenuous outing (about 14 km on foot after the 9.5 km 4x4 approach, total outing around 10–11 hours). Wear sturdy ankle-support boots, bring waterproof layers, sun protection, and at least 2–3 liters of water. The trail is exposed in sections and can be slippery after rain; move deliberately on eroded rock. Guides provide lunch boxes and local context, but confirm dietary needs in advance. Start early to maximize light and allow time for the boat transfer back across Lake Argentino.
challenging.
10–11 hours.
Good aerobic fitness and strong legs for sustained hiking and uneven terrain; able to carry a daypack.
Minimum age is 12; children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Yes — the tour includes the boat crossing to Estancia Cristina and round‑trip shared transfers as part of the itinerary.
No technical climbing gear is required; standard hiking gear and sturdy boots are sufficient for the guided trail.
All sales are final for this product; no refunds are available for cancellations.
The canyon preserves marine sediments from the Jurassic and lies within Los Glaciares National Park; Estancia Cristina reflects the region’s early ranching era as a remote estancia that later opened to visitors.
Stay on marked trails and pack out all waste to protect fragile glacial soils and fossil exposures; the area is within a national park with strict visitor rules.
Estancia Cristina operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
A low wind skims Lake Argentino as the boat eases toward the rocky shore at Estancia Cristina; gulls wheel and the mountains watch. From there a fleet of 4x4s climbs a rutted track into the Feruglio range, depositing small groups at an elevated ridge where the hike begins with a broad sweep over Lago Guillermo and the distant blue ice of Upsala Glacier.
A low wind skims Lake Argentino as the boat eases toward the rocky shore at Estancia Cristina; gulls wheel and the mountains watch. From there a fleet of 4x4s climbs a rutted track into the Feruglio range, depositing small groups at an elevated ridge where the hike begins with a broad sweep over Lago Guillermo and the distant blue ice of Upsala Glacier.
The route follows glacially scoured terrain and eroded trails that expose marine fossils laid down roughly 170 million years ago. Cañadón de los Fósiles is a classroom in stone: layered muds, fossilized shells and compacted seabed rise like pages turned by ice and wind. The region sits within Los Glaciares National Park, an area shaped by Pleistocene glaciers and later ranching culture — Estancia Cristina itself dates to the early 20th century and still operates as a working estancia and visitor gateway.
Expect broad panoramas, shifting colors in the canyon walls and a steady descent through formations that reveal Patagonia’s oceanic past. Wildlife is sparse but persistent; guanacos and soaring condors are regular companions.
Practical guidance: this is a full-day, strenuous outing (about 14 km on foot after the 9.5 km 4x4 approach, total outing around 10–11 hours). Wear sturdy ankle-support boots, bring waterproof layers, sun protection, and at least 2–3 liters of water. The trail is exposed in sections and can be slippery after rain; move deliberately on eroded rock. Guides provide lunch boxes and local context, but confirm dietary needs in advance. Start early to maximize light and allow time for the boat transfer back across Lake Argentino.