A demanding but compact backcountry route from El Chaltén that combines a summit push on Cerro Madsen with the serene lakes of Laguna Torre. Two days of rocky ridgelines, glacial views, and guided camping in Los Glaciares National Park.
A demanding but compact backcountry route from El Chaltén that combines a summit push on Cerro Madsen with the serene lakes of Laguna Torre. Two days of rocky ridgelines, glacial views, and guided camping in Los Glaciares National Park.
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Operated by Patagonia Hikes · El Chaltén, Santa Cruz
You leave El Chaltén before dawn, the town's sodium lights paling as the scrub and lenga forest take shape. By midmorning the trail opens, and the mountain announces itself: granite faces of Fitz Roy and the ragged skyline that give this corner of Patagonia an edge. On the first day you push uphill—rock underfoot, wind testing the campsite—until a narrow ridge rewards you with a view straight at Mount Fitz Roy. The second day unwinds into broad valleys and mirror-calm lagoons—Madre, Hija, and finally Laguna Torre—where icebergs drift like slow, white ships and the skyline keeps watch.
challenging.
2 days.
Strong cardiovascular fitness and leg endurance—regular hikers who train with elevation gain will fare best
The standard itinerary is non-technical but demanding; scrambling experience and comfort on exposed terrain are recommended, though no ropework is required for the normal route.
Participants should be in excellent physical condition—able to sustain long hikes with significant elevation gain and carry a personal daypack.
Private transport, guided services, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), technical and camping gear, and park fees are included as described by the operator.
Park entrance is regulated; guides will handle permits and fees as part of the service—confirm details with the operator before booking.
Nighttime temperatures can drop near freezing even in summer—bring an insulated sleeping bag rated for low single digits Celsius for comfort.
Yes—guides will alter plans if conditions are unsafe; the operator enforces a conservative cancellation policy, so be prepared for flexibility.
Los Glaciares National Park was created in 1937 to protect the Patagonian icefields and the dramatic granite peaks that attracted climbers and explorers throughout the 20th century.
Trail use is concentrated to limit soil erosion and vegetation loss; visitors should follow leave-no-trace practices to protect fragile alpine plants and glacial waterways.
Patagonia Hikes operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




Book with Patagonia Hikes
Book directly with Patagonia Hikes for the best rates and real-time scheduling.
Reserve Now