If you have a craving to get up close and personal with Argentina’s stunning mountains, waterfalls, and lakes, look no further than El Chalten. A small settlement amongst the rugged peaks of Patagonia, it’s a magnet for trekkers who flock to the town in the summer. Close to Chile’s border, El Chalten is situated in the heart of the spectacular Los Glaciares National Park.
Every year, visitors add considerably to the town’s current population of approximately 3000 people. Trekkers stroll through the streets wearing backpacks and toting hiking poles. In the mornings, they set off with a spring in their step, heading out to embark on one of the many hikes accessible from town. In the late afternoons, they wearily return, seeking a bar to celebrate the successful completion of their hike with a local craft beer.
The beauty of El Chalten is that whether you are a casual walker or hardcore hiker, there are a wealth of incredible trails of varying lengths and difficulties to choose from. A bonus is that most of the trailheads are in the town itself – a joy when you have previously spent time and money organizing transport to and from trailheads elsewhere in Patagonia. Additionally, there are no entrance fees, and all the treks can be undertaken independently.
Facilities in El Chalten cater exclusively to trekkers. There is a plethora of establishments that provide necessary sustenance at either end of the day. In the mornings, cafes prepare packed lunches for those heading out to the mountains, and in the evenings, restaurants serve hearty dishes to hungry hikers.
For those who want to rest their feet after multiple hiking days, there are also whitewater river rafting and horse-riding opportunities available just outside town. With abundant beautiful lakes in the surrounding area, fly fishing is also a popular pursuit.
The Best of the Day Hikes
Mount Fitz Roy Trek (Laguna de los Tres)
At a 13-mile return trip, this is one of the longest day hikes and most iconic of El Chalten’s treks. The trail culminates at Laguna de los Tres, a turquoise lake, from where there are incredible up-close views of the stunning Fitz Roy mountain range and Glacier de los Tres. Walk a little further along the lakeside and you will be treated to panoramic views of Lago Sucia. If possible, choose a day that’s clear and sunny for optimal views. Make sure you layer up – very high winds are common in this part of the world. Although one of the most challenging day hikes from El Chalten, the Fitz Roy Trek is incredibly rewarding – you won’t forget those views in a hurry.
Chorillo del Salto
This was my favorite of the short hikes and only takes a couple of hours maximum in and out. It’s reasonably flat and easy, making it a great little hike for anyone who prefers something less strenuous. The first section follows a dirt track with river and mountain views aplenty. The trail leads to a lovely waterfall – a perfect place for a spot of contemplation. Being easily accessible, it attracts a lot of day-trippers, so It’s best to start out early and beat the crowds.
Laguna Torre
If the Mount Fitz Roy Trek feels a little too challenging, this is the second-best option. At eleven miles long, it takes around seven hours to complete. It’s a little up and down, but manageable for anyone who is reasonably fit. The trail leads to a glacial lake, Laguna Torre, which is surrounded by towering peaks. It makes a perfect spot for a picnic while taking in the breathtaking views.
Mirador de los Condores
This entire hike only takes about an hour there and back and offers panoramic views of Fitz Roy and the town of El Chalten itself. As its name indicates, chances are high that you will spot condors flying overhead as you make tracks along the trail. It’s a perfect spot to watch the sunrise or sunset when a golden glow illuminates the mountains. There’s also an option to continue to Mirador Las Aguilas, less than a mile away, from where you can take in a sweeping view of Lake Viedma.
Laguna Sucia
If you prefer to get off the beaten track and have a hankering for something a little more adventurous, this hike to Laguna Sucia might just fit the bill. It’s not as well maintained as most trails in El Chalten and consequently attracts less traffic. There are boulders to scramble across and rivers to traverse, but hikers are rewarded with wonderful views of the lake and Fitz Roy mountain peak. A 14-mile hike, you’ll need to set out early and take plenty of supplies.