Curator’s statement
This itinerary captures two of Patagonia’s most iconic destinations: El Chaltén and El Calafate. El Calafate, renowned for the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier, is your gateway to the wonders of Argentine Patagonia. It offers access to both Los Glaciares National Park and El Chaltén—the true gem, in my opinion! Located in the heart of Patagonia, El Chaltén stands as Argentina’s hiking capital, beckoning adventurers with rugged mountains, crystalline lakes, and sprawling glaciers. The town has cultivated a great laid-back vibe, drawing people from around the world seeking simply to enjoy the natural beauty—and, arguably, the best day hikes in Patagonia. Together, they offer a balanced mix of active exploration, dramatic landscapes, and a sense of place that makes Patagonia feel both vast and yet deeply personal.
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Day 1: Arrive in El Calafate
Land in El Calafate and head straight into the wild. Enjoy the spectacular drive to El Chaltén, with views of the steppe giving way to dramatic peaks. Settle into your lodge and stretch your legs with a short sunset walk to Mirador de los Cóndores y Águila.
Day 2: Hike to Laguna de los Tres
This is a hiking town, pure and simple. Breathe the mountain air and indulge in the beauty of disconnecting—your active dolce far niente. Hit the trails early with your layers, lunch, and plenty of water. Today’s the big one: a bucket list hike to the turquoise waters of Laguna de los Tres, framed by the iconic spires of Fitz Roy. Hit Laguna Capri en route. You can also combine this with Glaciar and Mirador Piedras Blancas.
Day 3: Hike to Laguna Torre
Tackle a slightly gentler trail through forests and along rivers to reach Laguna Torre, where icebergs often drift across the lake beneath the Cerro Torre. While there are hikes of all duration and levels of difficulty, the highlights are covered today (Laguna Torre) and yesterday (Laguna de los Tres).
Day 4: Explore Los Huemules Reserve
On your last day in El Chaltén, step away from the crowds and explore the quiet, pristine trails of the Los Huemules conservation area. Keep in mind that there is no entrance fee for Los Glaciares National Park, but there is an entrance fee for Los Huemules Reserve. There are plenty of scenic circuits to choose from: Laguna and Glaciar Huemul (plus Salto del Anillo), Laguna del Diablo and Glaciar Cagliero, Lago Eléctrico, or Rio Eléctrico and Piedra del Fraile.
Day 5: Head back to El Calafate
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Chaltén before heading back to El Calafate. Make a few stops along the way for views or photo ops! Learn about the region’s glaciology at the Glaciarium Museum and stroll along Avenida Libertador and Paseo de Los Artesanos to soak up the local vibe.
Day 6: Go on a glacier excursion
El Calafate offers an abundance of unforgettable experiences, but you should start with a glacier excursion. Many companies offer ice treks or boat trips to get up close to this natural wonder, and the towering walls (or witnessing ice calving!) will leave you breathless. Although Perito Moreno is the most popular, you have plenty of glacial options: Spegazzini, Onelli, Upsala, and Viedma, to name a few.
Day 7: Reach Estancia Cristina
Cross Lago Argentino to reach the remote Estancia Cristina. After an offroad drive into the highlands to visit Glaciar Upsala's lookout point, hike through the fossil-strewn canyon back to the estancia. Grab a drink at the lodge before returning to El Calafate.
Day 8: Bird-watch and enjoy a final coffee
Depending on your flight time, squeeze in a stop at the bird-rich Laguna Nimez Sactuary or grab a final coffee by the lake.
Need to know
For adventure-seekers, there are plenty of excursions available. You can go on off-road 4x4 adventures, cabalgata or horseback rides, mountain biking along scenic trails, or on kayaking/rafting expeditions.
Travel Advisor
Robert Jungerwirth
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Argentine Patagonia page.