Laguna Esmeralda Hike from Ushuaia: Half-Day Trek to the Emerald Lake
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5–6 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate endurance—comfortable walking 4–6 hours over uneven terrain; suitable for most active travelers.
Overview
A brisk half-day trek from Ushuaia leads to Laguna Esmeralda, an emerald lake set among peat bogs and lenga forest. Expect boardwalks, stream crossings, and a snack on the shore—ideal for hikers looking for a high-return, low-commitment Patagonian outing.
Laguna Esmeralda Hike from Ushuaia: Half-Day Trek to the Emerald Lake
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A low, diesel hum fades as the minibus winds away from Ushuaia and into the open of Tierra Mayor. In the rearview, the town’s rooftops shrink and the mountain line sharpens: snow-brushed peaks, serrated ridgelines, and the kind of cold light that makes colors pop. The driver leaves the paved road and you step out at Nunatak refuge—trailhead, briefing point, and the place where the forest takes over.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring waterproof boots
Trail runs wet and muddy in places—waterproof mid-height boots will keep your feet dry and comfortable during stream crossings.
Use trekking poles
Poles stabilize you on boardwalks and across boggy stretches; guides can provide them if needed.
Layer for sudden weather
Wind, rain, and sun can arrive in an hour—pack a breathable shell and an insulating midlayer.
Respect peatlands
Stay on boardwalks and marked trail to avoid damaging fragile peat bogs that recover very slowly.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Andean condor
- Fuegian red fox (zorro)
History
The valley sits within the Tierra del Fuego Natural and Landscape Reserve and is part of landscapes historically used by Yámana and Selk’nam communities; 20th-century introductions of beavers reshaped waterways.
Conservation
Peat bogs in this region store carbon and recover slowly—staying on boardwalks minimizes damage; beaver control is an ongoing conservation priority in Tierra del Fuego.
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Adventure Hotspots in Ushuaia
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof hiking boots
Keeps feet dry through muddy sections and shallow stream crossings.
Waterproof shell (rain jacket)
Patagonia weather changes quickly—bring a breathable, waterproof outer layer.
spring specific
Insulating midlayer (fleece or down)
Keeps you warm during windy stretches and at the lake shore.
fall specific
Daypack with water and snacks
Carry water, sunscreen, camera, and any personal items for the half-day trek.
summer specific