Among the most dramatic day hike in South America — Laguna de los Tres in Los Glaciares National Park, a 23km round-trip beginning at the edge of El Chaltén. The final 45-minute ascent from Laguna Capri to Laguna de los Tres is steep and exposed to Patagonian wind. The payoff: Fitz Roy's 3,375m granite spire (almost never without cloud) reflected in the glacial lake. One of the world's great alpine landscapes. Free, no guide required, begins in El Chaltén.
Why It’s Worth Your Time
A cozy bar in the world’s southernmost city, perfect for warming up after a day in Tierra del Fuego. Local craft beer, Patagonian whisky, and hearty bar food in an end-of-the-world atmosphere.
What Stands Out
- 23km round-trip, 8–10 hours, 1,200m elevation gain — moderate-to-difficult fitness required
- Fitz Roy (El Chaltén): the mountain on the Patagonia clothing logo — more dramatic in person than in any image
- Start time: leave town by 7am to maximize chance of clear summit views
- Weather window: if the summit is visible, summit everything and go immediately — windows close fast
- Free: no entrance fee, no guide required, trail clearly marked throughout
- Combine with Laguna Torre hike (day before or after) for the full El Chaltén experience