Self-Guided 2-Day El Chaltén Trek: Laguna de los Tres, Fitz Roy & Cerro Torre
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days (approx. 8–10 hours hiking total)
Fitness Level
Should be comfortable with sustained uphill hikes of 700–800 m and daily distances of 15–20 km; basic cardio and leg strength recommended
Overview
Two days of Patagonia’s most iconic terrain—forest, glacier, and granite—packed into a self-guided route from El Chaltén. Meals, camping, and transfers are included so you can focus on the trails and the peaks.
Self-Guided 2-Day El Chaltén Trek: Laguna de los Tres, Fitz Roy & Cerro Torre
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You step off the bus at a low, wind-swept clearing and the mountains do what mountains do best: they rearrange your sense of scale. Granite needles—Fitz Roy’s serrated crest and Cerro Torre’s steep, knife-like flank—loom above the lenga forest, their ridgelines carved clean by ice and weather. On this two-day self-guided circuit out of El Chaltén, the landscape pushes you forward: rivers hurry past, glaciers crouch like sleeping beasts, and the trails climb with steady, honest grades.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Check the Río Blanco closure
Confirm current trail access before you go—sections between Río Blanco and Laguna de los Tres are sometimes closed for safety and conservation.
Leave large luggage in town
The operator does not store luggage; leave bags at your hotel so you aren’t overloaded on the trail.
Layer for rapidly changing weather
Temperatures and wind can shift quickly—bring a waterproof shell and warm mid-layer even in summer.
Bring enough water and snacks
Box lunches are provided but carry 1–2 liters of water and energy-rich snacks for long uphill sections.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Andean condor
- South American huemul/deer (rare)
History
El Chaltén grew as a base for mountaineers after mid-20th-century ascents of Fitz Roy; the area retains strong links to climbing culture and Patagonia’s exploration history.
Conservation
Trails are fragile—stay on marked paths, pack out waste, and respect seasonal closures designed to protect glaciers, waterways, and vegetation.
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Adventure Hotspots in El Chaltén
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy hiking boots
Ankle support and grippy soles are useful on scree and wet roots.
Waterproof shell jacket
Wind and rain are common; a breathable shell keeps layers dry and warm.
Insulating mid-layer (fleece/down)
Even summer days can turn cold at higher viewpoints—bring a warm layer for breaks and evenings.
Trekking poles
Useful for balance on descents and to reduce knee strain on long days.