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Welcome to El Chaltén, the trekking capital of Argentina! El Chaltén is a small city on the northern fringe of Los Glaciares Nationwide Park, surrounded by gorgeous mountains in each course.
Most individuals come to El Chaltén to expertise the rewarding hike to Laguna de los Tres, with its pristine view of Mount Fitz Roy. There are a lot extra outdoorsy issues to do in El Chaltén, together with rafting journeys, mountain climbing, and estancia visits.
Once I instructed my guides at Ecocamp Patagonia in Torres del Paine that we had been heading El Chaltén, they might invariably sigh with happiness. “I love El Chaltén,” they’d say, dreamy smiles on their faces.
And as quickly as I bought there, I noticed why. El Chaltén is a tiny, idyllic city set between mountains. It’s near the whole lot — the paths start actually proper on the town, and you may hike out of your lodging with out worrying about transportation to the trailhead!
And the hikes? They’re SPECTACULAR. A number of the greatest in all of Patagonia. You may hike every single day for every week and have a special expertise every day.
I also needs to let you realize that El Chaltén is a wild place. On this distant city, it is best to count on the climate to be diversified, the wifi to be sluggish, and the cellphone sign to be non-existent. That is the place for a digital detox! (Although if you really want wifi, head to PAISA Excessive Mountain Espresso. Extra on that under.)
So should you’re seeking to unplug, spend your days mountaineering within the mountains of Patagonia, and your nights having fun with Argentine lamb and craft beer, you will love El Chaltén! Listed here are the most effective issues to do in El Chaltén, Argentina, a mountain city you’ll always remember.
This publish was revealed in February 2024 and was co-written by Adventurous Kate and Riana Ang-Canning.
Issues to Do in El Chaltén, Argentina
Hike Laguna de los Tres path to Mount Fitz Roy
In the event you’ve seen anybody photograph of El Chaltén, it’s from Laguna de los Tres. Climbing to this attractive viewpoint, with the teal lake set in entrance of Mount Fitz Roy, is the primary factor to do in El Chaltén and one of the well-liked hikes in all of Patagonia.
Take note, this isn’t a hike for novices. It is a lengthy hike, and the final half is a difficult uphill slog — however should you’re a match and skilled hiker with the right gear, you’re going to find it irresistible.
Laguna de los Tres, or Lake of the Three, references the three mountains that encompass the lake: Mount Fitz Roy, Cerro Torre, and Mount Poincenot. Alongside the path you’ll take pleasure in panoramic views and choices to detour to close by lagoons or camp for the night time.
The Laguna de los Tres path begins from proper in El Chaltén. “Sendero al Fitz Roy” on Google Maps is the trailhead, perched on the tip of city. Costume appropriately — the path experiences sturdy winds, and in Patagonia, the climate could be unpredictable — deliver mountaineering poles, and be ready for the ultimate kilometer (0.6 miles) to be probably the most tough half.
This out-and-back hike is 22 km (13.7 miles) in whole, with over 1000 meters (3200 toes) in elevation achieve, and may take about eight hours to complete. You may hike independently, because the path is well-liked and well-marked, or you possibly can be a part of a mountaineering group with a information.
For mountaineering lovers on the lookout for a extra intense journey, there’s additionally a two-day guided tour, which incorporates in a single day tenting and visits to close by lakes Laguna Torre and Laguna Capri.
Hike to the Fitz Roy Viewpoint
If 14 miles of mountaineering to Laguna de los Tres and again isn’t for you, you possibly can nonetheless do a part of this hike and revel in spectacular views — simply cease on the Fitz Roy Viewpoint. That is truly what Charlie and I did, as we had been nonetheless considerably destroyed from mountaineering to the Base of the Torres del Paine in Chile.
Climbing to the Fitz Roy Viewpoint is a few three-hour out-and-back reasonable hike. Simply the correct quantity of mountaineering whenever you need a satisfying exercise however not fairly an all-day hike.
There’s a level within the hike the place you see a cut up path, one facet heading to the view of Cerro Fitz Roy, one facet heading to Laguna Capri. The 2 trails be a part of once more, so you are able to do the path in a circle and return again to El Chaltén.
Enjoyable reality: This view of Fitz Roy is what they modeled the Patagonia model emblem on! And you can even see Fitz Roy from Laguna Capri itself, which is a well-liked spot for tenting. It’s also possible to take pleasure in views alongside the way in which, like Mirador Río de las Vueltas.
Hike to Laguna Torre
The second large hike in El Chaltén after Laguna de los Tres is the hike to Laguna Torre. This 17.5-km (11-mile) difficult hike winds alongside the Río Fitz Roy valley, providing mountain vistas and viewpoints alongside the way in which.
The path begins from the city of El Chaltén, or you possibly can hook up with it from different mountaineering routes within the space. The out-and-back hike takes about 5 hours (although should you check out the evaluations, many hikers report it taking nearer to seven). Some hikers select to camp in a single day and hike again the following day.
In the event you don’t wish to hike the entire thing, you possibly can simply hike the primary 20 minutes of the path, till you see a waterfall down within the valley. I gained’t lie, this isn’t the massive payoff that the hike to the Fitz Roy viewpoint is — however it’s one thing should you’re up for a mini-mini hike.
Raft down Río de las Vueltas
There are extra outside actions in El Chaltén than simply mountaineering! Among the finest non-hiking issues to do in El Chaltén is to go on a rafting journey down the Rio de las Vueltas.
The primary part of the river is calm, permitting you to admire the views of Mount Fitz Roy and the native wildlife throughout you. Then it’s time for an adrenaline increase! Hold on tight as you and your fellow rafters navigate 10 km (6.2 miles) of Class III rapids.
Remember the fact that this exercise depends on the water ranges. Charlie and I booked a rafting journey, however sadly we weren’t in a position to go on account of excessive water ranges throughout our go to. If rafting is excessive in your listing, you may wish to reserve in your first day simply in case it will get postponed a day or two.
Trek on Cagliero Glacier
Patagonia has a set of extraordinary glaciers, and ice trekking is likely one of the greatest methods to get to know them! On this guided ice trekking expertise you’ll have an opportunity to discover the Cagliero Glacier and Laguna del Diablo, or Satan’s Lagoon.
Observe that this can be a difficult tour — far more so than Perito Moreno Glacier in El Calafate. You and your group will journey from El Chaltén to Los Huemules Reserve for a three-part journey. Half one is a two hour hike alongside the Diablo River by way of a lush forest.
Half two includes taking by way of ferrata mountaineering stairways to the glacier viewpoint — not for anybody with a concern of heights!
Lastly, partially three, it’s time to strap in your crampons and trek immediately onto the icy Cagliero Glacier! You’ll be on the glacier for about two hours earlier than turning round to return to El Chaltén.
Hike to Piedra del Fraile
One other stunning hike within the El Chaltén area takes you to Piedra del Fraile. On this 13-km (8-mile) route, you’ll trek alongside the Eléctrico River and Blanco River earlier than reaching the Piedras Blancas Lagoon.
The Piedra del Fraile path connects with the Fitz Roy path to achieve Laguna de los Tres, if you wish to add on a much less crowded facet hike. Simply know that this can add as much as an extended day general.
Hike to the Mirador Piedras Blancas
In the event you’re after a extra reasonable hike in Patagonia that also has gorgeous views, the Mirador Piedra Blancas path is likely one of the greatest issues to do in El Chaltén.
This 10-km (6.2-mile) out-and-back hike begins from El Pilar or the Eléctrico River, and may take about three hours to finish.
Alongside the way in which you’ll see gorgeous views of the Piedras Blancas glacier and waterfalls, and you could even get to witness a calving!
Hike to Chorrillo del Salto Waterfall
One of the accessible trails in El Chaltén is the hike to the Chorrillo del Salto waterfall. This 6.6-km (4-mile) simple hike is appropriate for youngsters and may take lower than two hours to finish. One of many nicer issues to do in El Chaltén whenever you need a low-key however energetic day!
In the event you’re quick on time or have mobility considerations, there’s a car parking zone nearer to the waterfall so that you solely need to stroll the final stretch of the path.
And don’t overlook to pronounce it the Argentine means — chor-REE-sho del Salto! Double Ls are SHs right here!
Hike to Laguna Azul
The hike to Laguna Azul is likely one of the greatest rewards for the least quantity of effort. It’s solely 90 minutes of mountaineering alongside a 5.3-km (3.3-mile) moderate-grade loop observe for views of two stunning lakes and a waterfall.
On this hike, you’ll cross over a suspension bridge to go to Laguna Verde and Laguna Azul with mountains and glaciers within the distance. This observe is situated inside Estancia Los Huemules, which is on personal land, and also you’ll pay an entrance price.
You may test opening hours and reserve your entry right here. Remember the fact that the Argentine trade charge is risky.
Additionally, it is best to know that there are many Laguna Azuls in Patagonia — the area is roofed in stunning blue lagoons! Be sure to’re mountaineering to the one close to El Chaltén earlier than you head out.
Take a ship journey on Lake Viedma
Lago Viedma is likely one of the largest lakes in Argentina and is fed by the Viedma Glacier. From El Chaltén, you possibly can take a ship journey out on the glacial lake to see the ice up shut.
You’ll take pleasure in crusing on the brilliant blue waters and admiring the sights and sounds of the tall glacier partitions. Maintain your eyes peeled for calving ice!
Some Lake Viedma excursions embrace the chance to discover the glacier itself by way of ice trekking or mountain climbing. Get in contact with the customer heart in El Chaltén, Centro de Informes Turisticos, to see their newest choices, as they’re not posted on-line.
Go to the El Chaltén’s Craft Breweries
You could be stunned to study that each El Chaltén and El Calafate are house to a ton of craft breweries — there’s simply one thing concerning the mountains that pulls brewers!
Many of the breweries serve scrumptious meals, so that they make the proper celebratory spot after ending a hike.
La Cervecería Chaltén is a superb spot for lunch, and so they serve some enjoyable, customizable pastas, along with their assortment of beers — and so they deliver you a bowl of popcorn, too!
La Zorra Taproom is one other brewery value visiting (in addition they have one other location in El Calafate, which additionally sells merch), in addition to La Birre del Rancho and Fresco Bar.
Go to Lago del Desierto and Vespignani Glacier
You may take pleasure in a full day of crusing, mountaineering and epic views on at the present time journey to Lago del Desierto and the Vespignani Glacier. From El Chaltén you’ll drive out to Punta Sur Port and board a ship throughout Lago del Desierto.
After crusing previous glaciers and mountain terrain, you’ll hike the path of your selection by way of the Glacier Vespignani Reserve. There are three trails to select from with various problem, so explorers of all ranges can take part.
When you’ve completed mountaineering, you’ll take pleasure in a snack after which head again to El Chaltén.
Go to La Leona Petrified Forest
Stroll by way of prehistoric Patagonia whenever you go to La Leona Petrified Forest. Right here you’ll be capable of discover an eroded panorama with 70 million-year-old petrified tree trunks and dinosaur fossils. It seems to be such as you’ve dropped onto the floor of the moon!
La Leona has mountaineering trails, historic websites, and plenty of locations value exploring.
In the event you’ve rented a automotive and are driving from El Chaltén to El Calafate, and even simply from El Chaltén to the airport, I like to recommend making a cease at La Leona Petrified Forest. In actual fact, that is just about the one worthwhile cease on the three-hour drive.
In the event you’re touring between El Chaltén and El Calafate by bus, there isn’t any cease on the petrified forest.
Go horseback driving
One other nice method to discover the terrain of El Chaltén is on horseback. Head out on a two-hour horseback driving expertise in Estancia Bonanza the place you’ll cross over rivers and streams, trip by way of forests, and have stunning mountain vistas surrounding you.
There are morning or afternoon rides out there, and each embrace a lightweight meal. And sure — kids are welcome on this tour!
Get pleasure from an Argentine parrilla at an estancia
You’re invited to a Patagonian lamb roast on the ranch Estancia Bonanza! Whereas Argentina could also be all concerning the beef, many individuals don’t notice that cordero, or lamb, is what dominates menus in Patagonia.
From El Chaltén you’ll head out on a scenic route — together with strolling throughout a suspension bridge and driving in a 4×4 — till you attain El Establo (the barn) the place your conventional grilled meal awaits.
Your meal will embrace chorizo, grilled lamb, roasted greens, and grilled fruit with cream for dessert.
Eat Argentine steak
In the event you’re a meat eater within the least, you possibly can’t come to Argentina and never take pleasure in their most well-known culinary achievement! You’ll discover loads of eating places in El Chaltén dishing up giant steaks to hungry hikers.
I actually loved the steak I had at La Tapera, a bife de chorizo (which surprisingly doesn’t include chorizo — it’s an Argentine reduce), pictured above. Different nice steak spots in El Chaltén embrace La Viňeria; Butch, Bar de Carnes; and The Asadores.
It’s also possible to take pleasure in a glass of Patagonian crimson wine together with your steak, although remember that the native wines should not as deep and sophisticated because the reds you’ll discover additional north in Argentina, just like the Malbecs of Mendoza.
Drop into PAISA Excessive Mountain Espresso
Every time I journey, I all the time seek for the most effective espresso on the town. And PAISA was completely the winner in El Chaltén. In actual fact, they made the most effective flat white I had in all of Argentina! What a discover, particularly for a tiny mountain city!
In the event you’re a espresso drinker eager for one thing nicer than burned filter espresso (typically the default in Patagonia), I extremely suggest you go to PAISA and deal with your self to their scrumptious espresso drinks and fabulous desserts.
It’s additionally value noting that they’ve quick wifi, which is tough to return by in El Chaltén. You won’t even have cellphone sign right here! So if you have to textual content your loved ones or publish a couple of envy-inducing pictures to Instagram, that is the place to do it.
Take a day journey to El Calafate and Perito Moreno Glacier
Whereas technically you can take a day journey from El Chaltén to El Calafate and Perito Moreno Glacier, I don’t suggest it. It’s a three-hour drive to El Chaltén, after which an extra hour to Perito Moreno Glacier — and driving eight hours in a day is simply nuts.
That mentioned — I do know that loads of individuals will try to do that anyway, so I would as nicely provide you with recommendation on find out how to do it safely. You’ll solely be capable of pull this off you probably have a rental automotive; the buses gained’t make it potential.
As a result of Patagonia has lengthy hours of daylight in the summertime, I like to recommend you get up early and head straight out. Cease in El Calafate for one thing to eat, then head to Perito Moreno. From there you’ll be capable of hike up and down the intensive platforms, permitting you to see the glacier from a lot of angles.
Head again to El Calafate whenever you’re completed and seize some extra meals, or perhaps a beer should you’re not the designated driver. Perito Moreno Glacier is the principle attraction within the space and the rationale why individuals go to El Calafate, however the city of El Calafate is a enjoyable place to stroll round and maybe do a little bit of procuring earlier than heading again.
Now — should you’re set on doing a glacier trekking tour, which I did and completely liked, you’ll have to time your go to across the arrival and departure of the tour. And also you’ll be driving again after sundown, which could be dangerous in such an remoted space.
In the event you REALLY wish to do this, I like to recommend you in a single day in El Calafate earlier than heading again to El Chalten.
Learn Extra: 25 Epic Factor to Do in El Calafate, Argentina
How A lot Time to Spend in El Chaltén
How a lot time you spend in El Chaltén actually is determined by how a lot mountaineering you wish to do. I might suggest a minimal of two full days to slot in one large hike and one different exercise, like rafting or horseback driving, or maybe one other hike.
In the event you’re coming for the hardcore trekking expertise, you’ll need 3+ days to discover this area. Possibly even every week or longer. Loads of individuals do that, together with a lot of Argentines.
It’s potential to do a day journey from El Calafate to El Chaltén, so long as you’ve gotten a rental automotive — and I feel it’s simpler than doing the reverse as a result of it’s a three-hour drive because you’re not coming all the way in which from the glacier itself.
Remember the fact that the climate in Patagonia could be wild and diversified. It’s commonplace to expertise all 4 seasons in a single day. That implies that dangerous climate days can occur.
Giving your self somewhat further time in El Chaltén offers you a buffer in case you’ve gotten dangerous climate days — or high-water-can’t-go-rafting days, like we had.
How one can get to El Chaltén
The simplest method to get to El Chaltén is to fly into El Calafate Airport (FTE), a regional airport you possibly can attain from different hubs in Argentina, together with Buenos Aires. From there, you’ll board a 2.5-hour bus to El Chaltén. In the event you’re coming from El Calafate city, the bus trip is three hours lengthy.
Buses from El Chaltén proceed north, stopping at extra factors in Patagonia, making El Chaltén a terrific addition to an extended Patagonia journey. From El Calafate, you possibly can fly or take a LONG bus trip to Ushuaia in Tierra del Fuego.
Must you hire a automotive to your journey to El Chaltén? I feel it is sensible to hire a automotive should you’re visiting each El Chaltén and El Calafate, and completely important should you’re planning to day journey between them.
However should you’re solely heading to El Chaltén and planning to hike and do outside actions, I don’t suppose it’s well worth the expense — simply take the bus and hike straight out of city. That’s one of many nicest issues about El Chaltén — the complete city is the trailhead!
The place to Keep in El Chaltén
Whereas El Chaltén is a small village in a distant a part of Argentina, there are resorts and guesthouses to go well with each finances. Nonetheless, most of those locations are small institutions with restricted rooms, so it’s necessary to e book forward of time.
One factor to remember that even when a lodge claims to have wifi, it won’t be at a purposeful pace to do something past learn plain textual content.
Prime-Rated Luxurious Lodge in El Chaltén: In the event you’re on the lookout for probably the most scenic place to remain in El Chaltén, you’ll wish to splurge on Patagonia Eco Domes. They’re situated a bit exterior of city however the views don’t get higher than this! It’s also possible to benefit from the on-site bar, restaurant, solar terrace, therapeutic massage companies, and day by day breakfast.
Prime-Rated Mid-Vary Lodge in El Chaltén: I stayed at Hosteria Senderos and located it to be a wonderful mid-range choice. It’s proper throughout from the bus station, which may be very handy you probably have an early departure or heavy luggage. There’s a restaurant on website with first rate meals and the rooms are comfy, although small. The wifi is so sluggish it’s barely purposeful, however that’s what you get in El Chaltén!
Prime-Rated Price range Lodge in El Chaltén: Price range vacationers can take a look at Andino Aparts for an apartment-style keep in El Chaltén. The residences include a separate kitchen and eating room, and a continental breakfast is served day by day.
Discover offers on locations to remain in El Chaltén right here.
Finest Time to Go to El Chaltén
Peak season in Patagonia is from December to March, which is summer time in South America. That is whenever you’ll have the most effective climate – although remember that the climate nonetheless varies wildly on this area – and the longest days.
You’ll have probably the most hours of daylight in December and January, which can also make these the busiest and costliest instances to journey to El Chaltén. To keep away from the crowds however nonetheless get good climate, I’d suggest going on the tail ends of excessive season — suppose late November to early December, or late March.
I went to El Chaltén in early December and it labored out very well. Whereas we didn’t have the limitless blue sky days that we had in Torres del Paine (critically, take a look at these photographs should you haven’t but), we had been in a position to take pleasure in clear views of Fitz Roy, even when it was overcast.
No large rain clouds, no hoards of individuals — labored for us!
Is El Chaltén Price It?
Sure, El Chaltén is value it! I completely liked my time in El Chaltén; it virtually felt like a fairy story. El Calafate may appear like it has extra on paper, however you completely can’t evaluate it to what El Chaltén seems like.
I feel the nicest factor about El Chaltén is that the mountaineering trails begin proper from the city. That makes it a lot simpler to get out and discover with out worrying about transportation. Think about if all cities had this!
So sure, a couple of days in El Chaltén is a trip nicely spent. I hope you’ve gotten probably the most fantastic time in El Chaltén — and Patagonia!
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Have you ever been to El Chaltén? Any recommendations? Share away!