Top 15 Activities in El Chaltén, Argentina for Adventure Seekers

The trekking capital of Argentina, El Chaltén translates to “smoking mountain.” Situated near the Chilean border within Los Glaciares National Park, the rugged and dramatic landscape surrounding this town is captivating. Catering primarily to trekkers and backpackers, El Chaltén offers a multitude of trails, outdoor activities, and accommodations.

A National Trekking Festival occurs every March, attracting numerous outdoor enthusiasts to the area. Due to unpredictable weather conditions, it is advisable to allocate a few days to fully appreciate the stunning mountain views. Although El Chaltén has a population of fewer than 2,000 residents, this number can swell dramatically during the peak season from November to February, drawing in hordes of trekkers.

Let us delve into the top activities available in El Chaltén:

1. Cerro Fitz Roy and Laguna de los Tres

This breathtaking mountain is one of the primary attractions that contributes to El Chaltén’s status as a tourist destination and is among the most frequented hikes.

Travelers visit this charming village to arrange trekking expeditions towards Mount Fitz Roy, along with its picturesque lakes and viewpoints.

The hike is achievable within a single day, featuring well-marked trails; however, it is advisable to await clear weather conditions to fully enjoy the mountain vistas and capture appealing photographs.

Some hikers opt to spend the night along the route, particularly because the last mile tends to be steep and occasionally icy.

Points of interest along the trail include Antarctic beech trees, the Del Salto stream, and the stunning Lagunas Madre and Hija.

Persist in your journey until reaching the captivating blue waters of Laguna de los Tres, where spectacular views of Fitz Roy await you (the original reason for undertaking this hike). Interestingly, the profile of this mountain inspired the logo for the outerwear brand Patagonia.

2. Cerro Torre and Laguna Torre

Another highly sought-after trek from El Chaltén leads adventurers to the steep and imposing Cerro Torre mountain, which can be completed within a day.

The trek offers moderate difficulty, revealing stunning scenery along the route, including streams, forests, the remarkable Cordón Adela mountain range, and occasionally, small icebergs floating in glacier-fed lakes.

While the trails are well-marked, hiring a guide is an option for those wishing to enhance their knowledge of the local flora and fauna.

Close to Laguna Torre lies the De Agostini Base Camp, where overnight camping is permitted, though the entire roundtrip trek can be accomplished in approximately 9 hours.

For the ambitious, there are side trails branching from Laguna Torre that can be merged to create a loop, enabling the visit of both Laguna de los Tres and Fitz Roy within a single day.

3. Hike to Glacier Huemul

A concealed treasure located just outside of El Chaltén requires a journey down a rugged road, approximately one hour away, to Lago del Desierto to commence the hike (shuttle services are available). This trail is relatively easy and follows a flat path, guiding you through enchanting, moss-laden forests filled with streams and waterfalls leading to the glacier.

The trek concludes at a pristine lagoon, wherein the hanging Glacier Huemul hovers above it, where one might observe condors as well as a unique viewpoint of Mount Fitz Roy.

An entry fee is required since the trail traverses private property, yet it remains one of the quieter hikes in the vicinity.

4. Take a Boat Trip On a Glacial Lake

To gain a closer perspective of the Viedma Glacier and those visually striking blue ice blocks adrift in the water, consider organizing a boat excursion onto Lago Viedma.

Your adventure begins aboard a high-speed catamaran that will navigate the turquoise waters nourished by the glacier, drawing you nearer to the source of these magnificent formations.

Along your journey, you will witness several icebergs bobbing in the water while capturing photographs of the glacier itself, and possibly even observe condors soaring above.

Located just a short distance from El Chaltén, local tour agencies can coordinate these boat trips, often including light snacks onboard.

Although not as renowned as the Perito Moreno Glacier, it certainly merits a day’s excursion.

If desired, you may combine this experience with ice trekking, with the boat providing access to the glacier—only reachable by boat!

5. Enjoy Some Post-Trekking Craft Beers

Similar to the aprés-ski culture present in ski towns, El Chaltén features a unique post-trekking scene (albeit on a smaller scale).

La Cerveceria is a favored establishment to unwind with locally brewed beer following an exhaustive day of trekking.

This rustic and inviting brewpub specializes in artisanal beers and offers complimentary popcorn with every beverage.

The establishment operates as both a microbrewery and beer garden, providing outdoor seating, music, and ample opportunity to meet fellow travelers—an occurrence quite likely in this hostel-heavy town inhabited by sociable backpackers.

Furthermore, La Cerveceria presents delicious empanadas, locro (a regional stew made with meat, corn, and potatoes), pizzas, and pasta, giving you the chance to sample traditional Argentine cuisine during your visit.

6. Rafting in the De Las Vueltas River Canyon

If you have ever aspired to engage in white water rafting on glacial tributaries, El Chaltén offers you this thrilling opportunity.

Rafting serves as a remarkable method to rest your legs post-trekking while still immersing yourself in the stunning mountainous landscapes and obtaining your daily adrenaline fix.

Tour companies provide excursions on El Río de las Vueltas or the “Lake Desert,” inviting you to navigate class III and IV rapids with Fitz Roy serving as the backdrop, ensuring an exhilarating experience! Essential equipment such as dry suits, helmets, life jackets, and neoprene boots are provided, along with professional guides; you might even have a photographer accompany you to document your journey down the river.

7. Salto El Chorrillo

Located merely minutes from the town, this natural waterfall, Salto El Chorrillo, is a favored hiking destination, requiring just over an hour to complete the round trip.

As you navigate along the trail, you will encounter wildflowers, woodlands, and increasingly humid air as you close in on the falls.

This path is straightforward and frequently frequented, making it an ideal option for those who may be fatigued from the more challenging treks in the vicinity of El Chaltén, with the lake serving as an excellent setting for a picnic.

It is rumored that the water is suitable for drinking, and several adventurous hikers even take the plunge for a refreshing swim.

8. Miradores Los Cóndores and Las Águilas

This easy hike presents a splendid opportunity particularly for those seeking to escape the city while enjoying scenic vistas; the Miradores Los Cóndores and Las Águilas serve as perfect spots for a half-day adventure or as a warm-up trek.

The trail meanders through meadows and forests leading you to Lago Viedma, where you can view the glacier and—just as the names of the viewpoints suggest in Spanish—look out for soaring eagles and condors above.

This trail is ideal for those who may not wish to tackle the Fitz Roy or Torre hikes, as it is relatively short, allowing you the option to visit one or both miradores.

You will enjoy panoramic views of both the mountains and the town, with the added possibility of encountering wild armadillos along the path!

9. Go Ice Climbing on the Viedma Glacier

Arrange for a unique trekking experience by donning crampons and traversing the icy surface of a massive glacier.

Numerous tour companies operating in El Chaltén provide all necessary equipment and guidance, taking you out to Lago Viedma to initiate this incredible journey.

You will descend into icy blue crevasses and climb back out, with guides readily available to assist beginners.

Viedma offers a less crowded (and more affordable) trekking alternative compared to the more popular Perito Moreno Glacier, despite it being the largest glacier in the country, spanning 380 square miles.

The ice of the Viedma Glacier exceeds 40 meters in thickness, and during your visit, you will hear it crack and splinter in dramatic fashion.

10. Bosque Petrificado La Leona

Located farther away from El Chaltén than most attractions, some travelers opt to explore the petrified forest from Calafate, as it lies midway between these two notable Patagonian towns.

Situated just off Ruta 40 on a private estancia (ranch), you will encounter dinosaur fossils, rock formations, and petrified trees amidst a surreal landscape.

Consider arranging a guided tour to embark on a leisurely 7-mile (12 km) hike throughout this captivating region, learning about the forests, volcanoes, and prehistoric life that once thrived here in what is now a desert-like environment.

You will gain insight into the geology and paleontology of the region, and some tours even include a visit to the historic Hotel La Leona, once patronized by Butch Cassidy and other notable guests.

11. Go Horseback Riding

One of the most rewarding methods to view the stunning scenery of the wild Patagonia region involves enlisting a professional gaucho to guide you on horseback.

The company El Relincho in El Chaltén organizes excursions, leading riders from Estancia Bonanza, navigating through the picturesque De Las Vueltas river valley and beyond.

Experienced and insightful guides share tales about the area’s history and heritage.

Throughout your ride, you will be afforded views of Fitz Roy as you traverse native forests, cross rivers, and pause for a traditional mate (a herbal Argentine drink) break.

Transportation to and from town is provided, with the option of camping available at the ranch equipped with hot showers, communal areas, and a kitchen, should you wish to extend your stay for a night or two.

12. Sendero Loma del Pliegue Tumbado

This enchanting hike spans 11 miles (17 km) across three distinct hills, which can be undertaken in a single day, requiring approximately 3 to 4 hours each way.

This trek serves as an alternative to El Chaltén’s most famous paths, offering a much less crowded experience while still providing fabulous vistas of Fitz Roy, Cerro Torre, and Laguna Torre from a different, southern perspective.

Along the route, one may spot condors, livestock, and the rare slipper orchids.

The path features a steady ascent, leafy forests, open plains, scenic viewpoints, and hills, culminating in an enjoyable day of hiking.

Numerous visitors who have completed all the major hikes in El Chaltén assert that this particular trek may yield the finest views of the region’s iconic mountains.

13. Go Fly Fishing

The Patagonia region offers countless opportunities for fly fishing, and the waters around El Chaltén are no different.

Whether you choose to stay at a fishing lodge, hire a guide for a day, or simply acquire a license in town prior to venturing out on your own, trying your hand at catching local rainbow trout is a must.

Lago Desierto and Río De Las Vueltas present excellent fishing grounds just outside of town from November to May.

Gustavo Minotti is a reputed guide in the area and can lead you to prime fishing locations within the river valleys.

14. Lago Del Desierto

This picturesque but less frequented lake located near El Chaltén offers a remarkable route, recognized as one of the most scenic drives in southern Patagonia.

The trek to Huemul Glacier commences here; however, you may also elect to take a boat ride across its blue-green waters—catamarans depart from the pier for 45-minute trips.

Alternatively, you might opt to mountain bike around the lake and return to town along the 23-mile (37 km) scenic unpaved route through a tour company.

Campsites situated near the lake provide opportunities to pitch a tent for the night, allowing you to continue immersing yourself in the enchanting scenery before returning to El Chaltén.

15. Get a Post-Trek Massage

Almost as essential as a refreshing beverage following a vigorous hike, obtaining a massage in El Chaltén aids in the recovery of your body after traversing Cerro Fitz Roy and Torre.

For a revitalizing experience, Spa Yaten is the premiere destination in town.

This establishment provides an array of treatment options including deep tissue massages, relaxation massages, jade massages, and access to their showers, saunas, and jacuzzis (complete with essential oils and picturesque mountain views). The spa personnel are equipped to offer facials and cold therapy leg treatments as well.

The value for these services is excellent, and you have the option of combining various treatments for a better deal.

Lake & Glacier Huemul