Explore the wonders of the La Leona Petrified Forest on a guided hiking tour that transports you to a prehistoric landscape. Marvel at the fossilized dinosaur bones and towering petrified trees that dot the terrain, all while taking in the breathtaking vistas of the Andes mountains and Argentino Lake. This captivating adventure not only immerses you in the rich history of Patagonia but also offers a chance to uncover the intriguing story behind the nearby Hotel La Leona. With round-trip transport, a boxed lunch, and an expert guide, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through an ancient world.
Good To Know
- Explore the frozen-in-time arid steppe landscape of the La Leona Petrified Forest, discovering fossilized dinosaur bones and towering petrified trees.
- Hike along an approximately 21-mile trail, taking in stunning views of the Andes mountains, Argentino Lake, and surrounding rivers.
- Visit the historic Hotel La Leona, a former roadhouse once frequented by the legendary outlaws Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.
- Enjoy round-trip air-conditioned transport, a boxed lunch, and a professional guide throughout the tour.
- The guided hiking tour operates seasonally from October to April, with a minimum of 2 people required per booking.
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Tour Overview and Highlights
Hiking this guided tour at the La Leona Petrified Forest allows visitors to explore an arid steppe, observing fossilized dinosaur bones and petrified trees.
The tour’s highlights include visits to the historic Hotel La Leona, once a roadhouse for Butch Cassidy, and scenic views of Argentino Lake, Santa Cruz and La Leona rivers, and the Andes mountains, including Mt Fitz Roy.
Located near El Calafate, Argentina, the approximately 21-mile (33-km) drive along Route 40 provides a unique landscape experience.
With a professional guide leading the way, this tour offers a chance to discover the fascinating geological wonders of this remote Patagonian region.
Inclusions and Logistics
The tour’s round-trip air-conditioned transport from centrally located hotels and the provision of a boxed lunch and bottled water are included in the package.
Plus, a professional guide is provided throughout the experience.
Key details to note:
- Gratuities aren’t included.
- Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.
- The tour operates seasonally from October to April.
- A minimum of 2 people is required per booking.
Physical Requirements and Recommendations
For this guided hiking tour, a moderate physical fitness level is recommended.
The tour involves hiking over uneven terrain and covering a distance of approximately 21 miles (33 km). While not wheelchair accessible, the hike is manageable for those with a reasonable level of fitness.
Visitors are advised to wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for the arid environment. Bringing sun protection, such as sunblock and a hat, is also recommended.
Please note that this tour may not be suitable for those with mobility constraints or underlying health conditions. It’s essential to consider your personal fitness level before booking this excursion.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Consistently, the guided hiking tour at La Leona Petrified Forest has garnered high praise from past participants, with an overall rating of 4.5 stars out of 18 reviews.
The majority of reviewers, 15 in total, awarded the tour a 5-star rating, highlighting the stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and unique landscape experiences.
Plus, 2 reviews gave it 4 stars, while only 1 review was less favorable, at 1 star.
Notable comments praise the tour’s contrast with glacier tours and engaging wildlife sightings, underscoring the diverse appeal of this Patagonian adventure.
- 15 reviews awarded 5 stars
- 2 reviews awarded 4 stars
- 1 review awarded 1 star
Booking Information
Pricing for the guided hiking tour at La Leona Petrified Forest starts from $227.61 and varies depending on group size.
The tour departs from El Calafate, located in the Patagonia region of Argentina. Pickup details will be confirmed based on your hotel location. The tour starts promptly at 9:00 am.
A minimum of 2 people is required per booking, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. This seasonal offering runs from October to April, so be sure to plan accordingly.
With stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and a unique petrified forest landscape, this guided hike is an unforgettable Patagonian adventure.
Exploration of the Petrified Forest
The guided hike through the La Leona Petrified Forest immerses visitors in an arid steppe landscape frozen in time.
Travelers will discover:
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Fossilized dinosaur bones protruding from the rocky terrain, offering a glimpse into the region’s prehistoric past.
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Towering petrified trees, their once-vibrant wood transformed into stone over millions of years.
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Stunning views of the surrounding Andes mountains, Argentino Lake, and the winding Santa Cruz and La Leona rivers.
This unique geological wonder provides an unforgettable opportunity to explore an ancient world preserved in the heart of Patagonia.
Historical Significance of Hotel La Leona
One of the key highlights of the guided hike through the La Leona Petrified Forest is a visit to the historic Hotel La Leona. This former roadhouse was once frequented by the notorious outlaws Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid during their time in Patagonia. The hotel’s rich history and connection to these legendary figures add an intriguing layer to the tour experience.
| Significance | Impact |
|---|---|
| Outlaws’ Pit Stop | Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid used Hotel La Leona as a hideout and respite during their time on the run. |
| Patagonian Outpost | The hotel served as an important waystation for travelers and settlers in this remote region of Patagonia. |
| Preserved Legacy | Today, the hotel stands as a testament to the rugged frontier spirit and intriguing history of the area. |
Scenic Views and Natural Wonders
During the guided hike through La Leona Petrified Forest, visitors can expect a captivating array of scenic vistas and natural wonders. The tour offers sweeping views of Argentino Lake, the Santa Cruz and La Leona rivers, and the majestic Andes mountains, including the iconic Mount Fitz Roy.
The arid steppe landscape is dotted with fossilized dinosaur bones and petrified trees, providing a unique glimpse into the region’s prehistoric past.
Highlights of the tour include:
- Panoramic views of the Argentino Lake and surrounding mountains
- Observation of the fossilized remains of dinosaurs and ancient flora
- The scenic drive along the iconic Route 40 through the Patagonian countryside
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?
Pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour itinerary and logistics do not accommodate bringing pets along. Participants should leave their pets at home to ensure they can fully enjoy the hiking experience at the La Leona Petrified Forest.
Is Photography Allowed During the Hike?
Photography is allowed during the hike, allowing guests to capture the stunning fossilized landscape and scenic views. However, the tour operator recommends being mindful of the natural environment and not damaging the delicate petrified remains.
What Is the Difficulty Level of the Hiking Trail?
The tour website recommends a moderate fitness level for the hiking trail. It’s not wheelchair accessible, so visitors should expect some physical challenges along the roughly 21-mile route through the arid steppe landscape.
Can I Extend the Tour to Explore Nearby Attractions?
The tour does not offer extensions to explore nearby attractions. However, visitors can consider combining this tour with other experiences in El Calafate, such as visiting the Perito Moreno glacier or taking a boat ride on Lago Argentino.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?
There’s no minimum age requirement for this La Leona Petrified Forest hiking tour, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is suitable for most ages, though a moderate fitness level is recommended.
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The Sum Up
The La Leona Petrified Forest offers a remarkable journey through an ancient world, immersing visitors in stunning landscapes and rich history. Explore fossilized dinosaur bones, towering petrified trees, and breathtaking views of the Andes and Argentino Lake. This guided hiking tour provides a unique opportunity to discover a piece of legendary Patagonian history. It’s an adventure not to be missed for nature and history enthusiasts alike.