2-Day Self-Guided Adventure El Chalten: Laguna De Los Tres, Fitz Roy & Torre Mt

Nestled in the heart of Argentina’s Patagonia region, El Chaltén offers nature enthusiasts a remarkable 2-day self-guided adventure. Explore the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Laguna de los Tres, Fitz Roy, and Torre mountains. This moderate-level trek covers 15-20 km per day, showcasing stunning glacial lakes and majestic peaks. With well-organized accommodations and meals, it’s an unforgettable experience for those seeking to enjoy Patagonia’s stunning natural beauty. But what makes this adventure truly unique, and why should it be on every adventurer’s bucket list?

Good To Know

• A 2-day self-guided trek in El Chaltén highlighting the stunning Laguna de los Tres, Fitz Roy mountain, and Torre mountain.
• Moderate fitness level required, with a max distance of 15 km on Day 1 and 20 km on Day 2.
• Accommodations, meals, and trail maps included, but national park entrance fee and luggage storage are excluded.
• Guided tours not provided, but the trail is well-marked with recommended gear for comfort and safety.
• El Chaltén is a remote location in Patagonia, so planning transportation options and arrival is crucial for this adventure.

Tour Overview and Details

Offering a 2-day self-guided adventure in the picturesque town of El Chaltén, this tour allows travelers to explore the stunning Laguna de los Tres, the iconic Fitz Roy mountain, and the majestic Torre mountain.

Operated by Say Hueque Travel, the tour has an average rating of 3.5 out of 8 reviews and costs from €349.58 per person, depending on group size.

The tour starts and ends at the local supplier’s office in El Chaltén, with a briefing at 10:15 am and a departure at 11:00 am.

Accommodation, meals, and a map of the main trails are included, while the national park entrance fee and luggage storage are excluded.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes overnight accommodation at Full Camp Fitz Roy, as well as 2 lunches, dinner, and breakfast.

Travelers will also receive a map of the main trails and a one-way shared transfer to El Pilar. Beverages are included as well.

However, the national park entrance fee isn’t covered, and travelers must leave their luggage at their hotel.

The hike requires a moderate level of physical fitness, with distances of 15 km on Day 1 and 20 km on Day 2.

Recommended gear includes hiking shoes, a waterproof jacket, a small backpack, and water.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and is unsuitable for travelers with serious medical conditions.

The minimum age is 12 years, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Hiking and Physical Requirements

A moderate physical fitness level is required for this self-guided adventure in El Chalten.

The hiking distances span 15 km on Day 1 and 20 km on Day 2.

Recommended gear includes:

1. Hiking shoes for the rugged terrain
2. A waterproof jacket to protect against the elements
3. A small backpack to carry essentials
4. Ample water to stay hydrated

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t suitable for travelers with serious medical conditions.

The minimum age is 12 years, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Route and Accessibility

Due to a closure on the section from Río Blanco to Laguna de los Tres, the tour takes an alternative route. Travelers will hike from Río Eléctrico to Laguna, Piedras Blancas Glacier, Fitz Roy Valley, Campamento Poincenot, Laguna Capri, and Mirador Río Las Vueltas. This route offers stunning views of the glacier, valley, and surrounding mountains.

Route	Distance	Elevation	Duration
Río Eléctrico to Laguna	4 km	300 m	2-3 hrs
Laguna to Piedras Blancas	3 km	200 m	1-2 hrs
Fitz Roy Valley to Campamento Poincenot	5 km	100 m	2-3 hrs
Campamento Poincenot to Laguna Capri	3 km	100 m	1-2 hrs

Traveler Feedback and Recommendations

Based on traveler reviews, the tour appears to be well-organized, with positive feedback on the quality of meals and the stunning scenery encountered.

However, some travelers have suggested communicating any dietary restrictions during booking.

While the camp accommodations and staff have received praise for their friendliness and service quality, there have been mixed reviews on the availability of guides, as the tour is self-guided.

Travelers should also note that alternative booking options at lower prices may be available.

Some key recommendations from past participants:

1. Communicate any dietary needs when booking.
2. Be prepared for a self-guided experience, as guide availability may vary.
3. Research alternative booking options to find the best price.
4. Pack the recommended gear, including sturdy hiking shoes and a waterproof jacket.

Getting to El Chaltén

El Chaltén’s remote location in southern Patagonia requires some planning for travelers to reach the town.

Visitors can fly into the nearest airports in El Calafate or Río Gallegos, both around 3 hours’ drive from El Chaltén. From there, shuttles, private transfers, or rental cars are the most convenient options to complete the journey.

Alternatively, some travelers choose to take a bus to El Chaltén, which offers a scenic but longer ride.

Once in town, the self-guided adventure starts from the local supplier’s office, where the group receives a briefing and maps before setting off to explore the stunning landscapes of Fitz Roy and Laguna de los Tres.

Top Highlights of the Trek

The two-day El Chaltén adventure takes travelers on a captivating journey through some of Patagonia’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders.

Highlights include:

1. Laguna de los Tres: A stunning glacial lake situated at the base of the iconic Fitz Roy massif, offering breathtaking views of the jagged peaks.

2. Fitz Roy and Torre Mountains: These dramatic granite mountains dominate the skyline, challenging hikers with their steep trails but rewarding them with panoramic vistas.

3. Piedras Blancas Glacier: Witness the power of nature as you stand in awe of this majestic, icy landscape.

4. Laguna Capri: A serene lake surrounded by lush forests, providing a peaceful respite for weary trekkers.

Packing and Preparation

Proper preparation is key to a successful trek in El Chalten. Hikers should pack the recommended gear, including sturdy hiking shoes, a waterproof jacket, and a small backpack. Plus, it’s essential to bring plenty of water and snacks to keep energy levels up during the long days of hiking.

Essential Gear	Recommended Items
Footwear	Hiking boots/shoes
Outerwear	Waterproof jacket
Hydration	Water bottle
Nutrition	High-energy snacks
Accessories	Trekking poles

Proper planning and packing will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience on the trails of El Chalten.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need to Bring My Own Hiking Poles?

While hiking poles are not required, they can provide additional stability and support on the trail. Travelers should consider bringing their own poles if they find them helpful for their hiking experience.

Is There a Way to Rent Equipment in El Chaltén?

Yes, there are rental options available in El Chaltén for hiking equipment like poles. Travelers can check with local outdoor outfitters to rent gear before their hike to help ensure they have the proper equipment.

How Much Time Should I Allocate for Taking Photos?

Travelers should allocate ample time for taking photos, as the stunning landscapes of El Chaltén offer numerous picturesque opportunities. Depending on one’s photography interests, an extra 1-2 hours per day is generally recommended to capture the region’s natural beauty.

Can I Switch to a Guided Tour Option During the Hike?

The tour is self-guided, so participants can’t switch to a guided option during the hike. However, there are alternative guided tour options available through the tour operator at a different price point if that’s preferred.

Are There Any Emergency Contact Numbers Provided by the Tour Operator?

The tour operator does not provide any emergency contact numbers. The tour is self-guided, and travelers are responsible for their own safety and emergency planning during the hike.

The Sum Up

Embark on this 2-day self-guided trek in El Chaltén for an unforgettable adventure. Explore stunning glacial lakes, majestic peaks, and breathtaking landscapes. With moderate fitness requirements and well-organized accommodations, this tour is perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Capture awe-inspiring views and create lasting memories on this thrilling exploration of Laguna de los Tres, Fitz Roy, and Torre mountains.