Epic One-Day Hike to Laguna de los Tres: Exploring Patagonia’s Iconic Fitz Roy Trek
The summit is what drives us, but the climb itself is what matters
Conrad Anker
Nestled in the heart of Argentina’s Patagonia, the hike to Laguna de los Tres, also known as the Fitz Roy hike, is a must for any adventure seeker. Located in the mountain village of El Chalten, the ‘Trekking Capital of Argentina’, this trek outshines the many other incredible hikes within the region.
Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views, from wide river valleys and jagged mountain to shady lenga forests, with the promise of a glacial lake cradled by three iconic towering peaks—Fitz Roy, Poincenot, and Saint-Exupéry. Ready for a journey that blends challenge with breathtaking beauty? Let’s dive into one of Patagonia’s finest adventures.
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• Location: Located in Los Glaciares National Park, right in the heart of Argentina’s Patagonia, with El Chaltén serving as its main gateway.
• Length: The trek spans between 20 and 22 km (12.4-13.7 miles) depending on where you start and whether you take any detours to additional lookouts along the way.
• Elevation: You’ll ascend around 864 m/2835 ft – get ready and be prepared to feel those legs burn!
• Difficulty: It’s a moderate-to-challenging hike, especially the steep final ascent to the lake.
• Time: The full trek takes about 8-10 hours, depending on your pace (and how often you stop for those epic views!).
• Price: This section of Parque Nacional Los Glaciares has always been free to access, unlike the area that includes the famous Perito Moreno Glacier. However, as of October 2024, the trails in El Chaltén now require an entry fee. International visitors must pay $45,000 (approximately 45 USD), while Argentine residents are charged $15,000. There’s also a “Flexipass” option, which lets you visit for three days and pay for only two. Tickets can conveniently be purchased online.
Where to Stay
El Chaltén, often called the “Trekking Capital of Argentina,” is the perfect base for exploring not only the Laguna de los Tres hike but also many other iconic trails in the region. This charming mountain village offers a range of accommodation options, from cozy hostels to boutique lodges, catering to all budgets. My picks:
– Patagonia EcoDomes: immersive experience in domes, amazing views of the most famous peaks and you will start your treks right from the door of the hotel.
– Rancho Grande Hostel: budget option, nice cozy hostel in the middle of El Chalten. It has everything you might expect from a hostel. Close to start of a few of the main treks.
IMPORTANT TIP: Keep in mind that El Chalten is a relatively small town, so it’s a good idea to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak tourist season (typically from November to March) when the town can get quite busy.
The Trek
Starting Point
Officially, the trail head begins and finishes at the end of Avenida San Martin in El Chalten, where the urban area transitions into a parking lot. This is the exact location. You go and return through the same path. This is what most international tourists do. It’s easy to follow and you can’t go wrong. Just follow the signs and the crowds. That’s it.
Alternative Starting Point
If you’re feeling adventurous and want a quieter, less crowded route to Laguna de los Tres, consider starting at the Río Eléctrico Bridge on Ruta Provincial 41, about 16 km from El Chaltén. Google Maps location here. That’s exactly what we did, and it offered us a more secluded experience with added perks like lush lenga forests and stunning views of glaciers, including Piedras Blancas Glacier. We even had the rare treat of spotting a huemul (South Andean deer)—a true once-in-a-blue-moon sight! To get there, you can either take a taxi (book it a day ahead) or a minibus. We grabbed our tickets at the local bus station and were picked up early the next morning right from our hotel. This transfer, as of October 2024, costs $10,000 pesos, around 10 USD.
Campground Poincenot
No matter which starting point you choose, both routes lead to Campamento Poincenot, a serene campground nestled in the heart of Patagonia’s rugged beauty. Surrounded by mountains and forests, it sits just below the steep ascent to Laguna de los Tres—the toughest part of the hike. It’s also the base camp for those daring enough to climb the Fitz Roy peaks. The hike to the top takes about an hour, making it the perfect spot for campers who want to catch the breathtaking sunrise as it lights up the mountains. Campers need to bring their own gear, as facilities are basic (there are dry toilets and drinkable water from a stream). Best of all, camping here is free, with no reservations required!
The Steep Ascent to Laguna de Los Tres
Whether you’re camping or completing the hike in a single day, after passing Campamento Poincenot, you’ll reach the toughest section: a steep, sharp ascent. This climb, clearly marked by a sign, is the most challenging part of the entire trek, no matter if you start from El Chaltén or Río Eléctrico Bridge. The trail rises 400 meters over just 1.8 km in about an hour. The terrain is rocky and unstable, requiring careful footing and a steady pace, especially in peak season when it gets busy with hikers.
Despite the intense physical effort, the reward at the top is more than worth it. As you reach the final ridge, you’re greeted with breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Fitz Roy towering majestically over the Patagonian landscape. On calm summer days, the turquoise waters of Laguna de los Tres reflect the mountain’s image perfectly, while in winter, the lake is often covered with glacial ice, adding to the dramatic scenery.
Take your time on this section, as the trail can be slippery, especially in winter or after rain. Hiking shoes are a must—don’t even think about doing this in running shoes! Trekking poles are highly recommended to help with balance, though they aren’t essential for everyone. If you’re hiking in winter, crampons are absolutely necessary to navigate the icy path safely. Whether in summer or winter, reaching the Laguna de los Tres is an experience that will leave you in awe.
This is also a good spot to sit down, enjoy a well-earned lunch, and admire the stunning Patagonian landscape. As we were finishing up our meal, snowflakes started falling, and the wind began to pick up, so we decided it’s time to get back up and keep going. A true reminder of nature’s unpredictability in this rugged region!
Laguna Sucia
As if Laguna de los Tres wasn’t enough, in the case you’ve still got the time and energy, I highly recommend checking out Laguna Sucia before heading back to El Chaltén. Located about 800 meters to the left, just below Laguna de los Tres, (it almost feels like its “big brother” due to its size and similarities). With glaciers feeding its deep blue waters, Laguna Sucia boasts an untamed, wild beauty. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet, reflective pause before your descent.
Return to El Chalten
As you descend, take the same care as on the way up—the rocky terrain can be tricky, and the trail is often busy with other hikers. Once you reach the junction, it’s about a 4-hour walk back to El Chaltén. If you started from Río Eléctrico, this part of the trail will be new to you, offering beautiful views of mountain-framed meadows. Along the way, you’ll pass Laguna Capri with stunning views of Mount Fitz Roy and the Mirador Río de las Vueltas, a scenic overlook of the river valley and El Chaltén nestled below as you end the hike.
FAQ
Best Time to Visit?
While Laguna de los Tres hike is doable year-round, two key factors to keep in mind are weather and crowds—and they’re definitely correlated. For the best conditions, plan your trek between November and mid-April, during the Southern Hemisphere’s summer. Just know that this is also peak tourist season, so you won’t have the trail to yourself. If you’re up for an off-season adventure, you can absolutely hike outside this window, but be prepared for snow, ice, and harsher conditions. Proper gear and precautions are a must!
What to Pack
• Hiking Shoes/Boots:
No matter when you tackle this trek, proper hiking footwear is a must. For most seasons outside winter, a lightweight and affordable pair like this Columbia option would work well. However, for winter conditions, sturdy, waterproof boots with good ankle support are essential to handle the uneven, rocky terrain and potential snow.
• Clothing Layers:
Patagonia’s weather is famously unpredictable, so dressing in layers is key. Start with moisture-wicking base layers, add a warm mid-layer, and top it off with a waterproof and windproof jacket. A breathable shell like this men’s jacket or this women’s jacket is perfect for keeping you dry and comfortable.
• Snacks and Water:
Keeping your energy up during a long hike like this is essential! We stocked up at a local shop in El Chaltén, where we grabbed an incredible prosciutto sandwich combo that came with dried fruit, a fresh apple, and a chocolate treat. A hydration bladder, like this one, is a smart and convenient way to stay hydrated on the trail.
• Backpack:
Bring a comfortable, medium-sized backpack to carry all your essentials—gear, snacks, water, and extra layers. If you’re travelling with a large backpack, this can serve as a more practical daypack. Check out this one for a great option.
• Sun Protection:
Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, UV-protective sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield yourself from Patagonia’s strong sun, particularly during the summer months.
• Trekking Poles (Optional):
Trekking poles can make a big difference on the steeper or more rugged sections of the trail. If you decide to use them, these poles are a reliable choice.
Do I Need a Tour?
We didn’t book a tour to hike Laguna de los Tres and this is not required. However, if you prefer the convenience of a guide handling logistics like transportation to the trailhead or providing equipment and meals, there are plenty of tour options. This one is a really good option starting from Puente Electrico. It’s all about what makes you feel more comfortable on your adventure!
Final Thoughts
By the end of the day, my legs were shot, my knees were aching, and my feet felt like they’d walked a thousand miles. But honestly? I wouldn’t change a thing. The Laguna de los Tres hike was easily one of the most incredible one-day treks I’ve ever done. From the breathtaking views of Mount Fitz Roy to the quieter, hidden gem of Laguna Sucia, this trail is a must for any adventurer who loves exploring the wild beauty of Patagonia. Whether you start from El Chaltén or the more secluded Río Eléctrico, you’re in for a treat with every step!
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