Trek to Vinciguerra Glacier and Laguna de los Témpanos — Day Hike from Ushuaia
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—comfortable on sustained uphill sections and uneven terrain; regular walkers will be fine
Overview
This full-day trek from Ushuaia leads 16 km round-trip through subantarctic forest, peat bogs and moraine to Laguna de los Témpanos and the snout of Vinciguerra Glacier. Expect steep sections, variable weather and close-up glacier views guided by local experts.
Trek to Vinciguerra Glacier and Laguna de los Témpanos — Day Hike from Ushuaia
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The minivan winds out of Ushuaia before dawn, headlights picking out frost on the roadside peat. You pass low willow tangles and braids of river water, the landscape loosening from town into the raw business of Tierra del Fuego: beaver-chewed trunks, moss-heavy bogs and the sudden blue-white flash of calving ice far ahead. By the time you step onto the trailhead the guide has already sketched the plan—16 kilometers round-trip, steep pitches, and long views of the Vinciguerra Glacier that carved this valley.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Start early
Wind and weather calm in the morning—begin at first light to avoid afternoon gusts and make the most of visibility.
Footwear and traction
Wear stiff-soled, waterproof hiking boots; crampons are provided but boots must fit them securely.
Hydrate and snack
Carry 2–3 liters of water and extra calories—steep sections demand steady fuel.
Respect wildlife and wetlands
Stay on trail to protect peat bogs and avoid disturbing local birds; beaver dams are fragile habitats.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Andean condor (occasional overhead thermals)
- Magellanic woodpecker and other subantarctic forest birds
History
The area was traditionally used by Yámana and Selk’nam peoples; later 19th–20th century frontier activity and introduced beavers altered ecosystems now under conservation study.
Conservation
Laguna de los Témpanos is part of a Ramsar-recognized wetland system; stay on trails to protect peat bogs and avoid trampling sensitive vegetation.
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Adventure Hotspots in Ushuaia
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof hiking boots
Stiff, waterproof boots provide ankle support on moraine and keep feet dry across boggy sections.
Insulating midlayer
Warm fleece or synthetic layer protects against cold winds near the glacier.
Water bottle or hydration bladder (2–3 L)
Ample water is essential for the 16 km route and for exertion on steep slopes.
Light rain shell and windproof jacket
A lightweight shell blocks wind and sudden rain typical of Ushuaia’s microclimates.