Explore El Chaltén and experience one of Patagonia’s most emblematic hikes in a program that balances organization and independence while visiting Laguna de los Tres. The excursion includes round-trip transportation from El Calafate with a guide during the drive, and upon arrival in El Chaltén, a challenging, fully self-guided trek begins from Estancia El Pilar. The route covers 20 km over approximately 9 hours on clearly marked trails, with breathtaking views of Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre.
The tour starts early in the morning with pick-up from your accommodation in El Calafate at 6:00 a.m. Accompanied by a guide during the drive, you will travel along the legendary Route 40, skirting Lake Viedma and enjoying panoramic views of the Patagonian steppe and the Andes Mountains. During the journey, you will receive key information about the region, along with recommendations and essential details to help you complete the trek safely and independently.
Upon arrival in El Chaltén, Argentina’s trekking capital, the real adventure begins: from Estancia El Pilar, the experience becomes entirely self-guided. The trail to Laguna de los Tres is clearly marked and designed to be completed independently, making it ideal for travelers seeking a more personal connection with the mountains, free from group schedules.
The total trekking distance is approximately 20 km round trip, with an estimated duration of 9 hours. Along the way, you will pass through native forests, mountain rivers, and scenic viewpoints with privileged views of glaciers and the Fitz Roy massif.
The first section features gentle, gradual inclines, passing iconic spots such as the Río de las Vueltas Valley viewpoint and the area near Poincenot Camp (6.3 km). The final stretch is the most demanding: a steep ascent rewarded with one of the most breathtaking views in Patagonia, Laguna de los Tres at the base of Mount Fitz Roy (2.5 km).
Upon reaching Laguna de los Tres, you will have time to rest, have lunch, and enjoy the landscape at your own pace, taking full advantage of the flexibility of the self-guided format.
After completing the hike, the return is on your own back to El Chaltén, descending via the Laguna Capri trail (11.2 km), where the vehicle will be waiting to take you back to El Calafate, arriving at your hotel at approximately 9:00 p.m.