Laguna del Desierto & Vespignani Glacier: Full-Day Trek from El Chaltén
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
10–13 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers who can walk 1–2 hours over uneven terrain, handle a short steep climb (200 m), and be active for a full day.
Overview
A full-day expedition from El Chaltén that combines a scenic drive down RN40, a 30-minute boat crossing and 2 hours of self-guided trekking at Vespignani Glacier. Short, varied trails put you at the glacier’s foot and at panoramic viewpoints over Laguna del Desierto.
Laguna del Desierto & Vespignani Glacier: Full-Day Trek from El Chaltén
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You step off a low pier as the wind pulls at your jacket and the lake seems to test your resolve—Laguna del Desierto doesn’t give its scenery gently. The day begins with a drive along RN40, where Route 40 opens like a ribbon between silver lakes and steppe; by the time you reach Punta Sur the mountains have grown taller and closer, their glaciers catching the light like cold beacons.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring a packed lunch
There are no food services at Laguna del Desierto—pack a substantial lunch and snacks to fuel the long day.
Layer for wind and sun
Strong winds and sudden sun are common—use breathable layers, a windproof shell and a brimmed hat.
Footwear matters
Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good grip will handle rocky shorelines and muddy forest paths.
Plan your timing
Aim to hike the Red Trail in the calmer morning hours for better light and less wind at the glacier viewpoint.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Guanaco
- Andean condor (occasional)
History
The route skirts landscapes explored by Fitz Roy and described in later naturalist accounts; Route 40 and the Santa Cruz River carry echoes of early Patagonian exploration.
Conservation
The area is inside Los Glaciares National Park—stay on marked trails, pack out waste, and avoid approaching ice fronts to protect fragile habitats.
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Adventure Hotspots in El Chaltén
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof hiking boots
Protects against wet shorelines and rocky trail sections on all trails.
Waterproof shell jacket
Blocks wind-driven showers common in Patagonia and keeps you warm on the boat crossing.
spring specific
1.5–2L water bottle or hydration bladder
Carry enough water—there’s nowhere to refill during the shore hikes.
summer specific
Packed lunch/energy snacks
The operator requests travelers bring a lunch box from the hotel since food isn’t available at the site.