THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
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.
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.
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Operated by Kaitek Viajes · Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego
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.
moderate.
5–6 hours.
Moderate endurance—comfortable walking 4–6 hours over uneven terrain; suitable for most active travelers.
The full excursion runs about 5–6 hours including transport; the trail itself is roughly 9 km round-trip with 200–300 m of elevation gain—uneven but suitable for most active visitors.
Yes—the tour includes a light brunch/snack and hot drinks to enjoy at Laguna Esmeralda’s shore.
Not strictly required; guides can provide trekking poles if you need them. Waterproof footwear and layered clothing are the priority.
Minimum age is 6; the operator notes it’s suitable for a broad range of fitness levels, but not recommended for those with serious back or heart issues.
Swimming is possible but not recommended—the water is cold and currents from meltwater can be chilly and unpredictable.
The tour includes round-trip transport from Ushuaia hotels and the port; pick-up is typically 30 minutes before departure time.
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.
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.
Kaitek Viajes operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
Book with Kaitek Viajes
Book directly with Kaitek Viajes for the best rates and real-time scheduling.
Reserve Now