Trekking to Vinciguerra Glacier & Laguna de los Témpanos — Day Hike from Ushuaia
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Moderately fit — able to handle steady uphill walking and uneven terrain for several hours
Overview
An 8‑hour day hike from Ushuaia that moves from peat bogs and Fuegian forest to a rocky ridge beside Laguna de los Témpanos, offering close-up views of Vinciguerra Glacier and on-site climate monitoring stations.
Trekking to Vinciguerra Glacier & Laguna de los Témpanos — Day Hike from Ushuaia
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The trail opens like a film: you step out of an air-conditioned van, the town’s harbor shrinks behind you, and a wide valley breathes ahead — peatlands dark and spongy, a ribbon of the Arroyo Grande daring you to keep to the left bank.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Waterproof footwear
The route crosses peat bogs and wet trails year-round; waterproof boots and gaiters keep feet dry and warm.
Bring sun protection
High reflectivity from ice and water increases UV exposure — wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a brimmed hat.
Respect monitoring equipment
Scientific instruments near the glacier monitor climate; do not touch or disturb them.
Pace the rocky ascent
Save energy for the final steep, loose-rock slope — use poles and take short breaks to avoid slips.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- South American beaver (introduced)
- Magellanic woodpecker and other temperate forest birds
History
The valley’s peatlands and glacier margins record both post-glacial recovery and rapid retreat in recent decades; researchers placed instruments here to track those changes.
Conservation
Stick to established trails to protect fragile peat bogs and avoid disturbing research equipment; local operators emphasize leave-no-trace and minimal group impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Ushuaia
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof hiking boots
Keeps feet dry crossing peat bogs and muddy sections.
Waterproof shell and insulating midlayer
Weather changes fast; layers manage rain, wind and cold near the glacier.
Traction devices / crampons
Useful on icy or snowy slopes in late fall, winter and early spring.
winter specific
Trekking poles
Stabilize you on wet boardwalks, stream crossings and the rocky final ascent.