Argentina Travel Guide: El Chaltén Essentials & Tips for First-Time Visitors
1️⃣ El Chaltén boasts some of the most celebrated hiking routes in Argentina’s Patagonia, while another iconic trail is found in Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park. In my opinion, El Chaltén not only offers breathtaking beauty but also provides better value for your money.
2️⃣ Until the end of last year, the three main trails here were free. Now, a single entrance fee of 45 USD, payable by card, has been introduced. Here are the details of the three trails:
1) Fitz Roy Peak: Purple Line – Laguna de los Tres. One way is 9km, and I completed it in 7 hours. It’s not very challenging, and many older hikers also enjoy this route.
2) Torre Peak: Orange Line – Laguna y Glaciar Torre. One way is 11km, and it took me 10 hours to complete. The last kilometer is a steep uphill climb, but the rest of the trail is relatively easy.
3) Chorrillo Waterfall: Gold Line – Chorrillo del Salto. One way is 3km, and I finished it in 3 hours.
❗️ For more detailed information, see image 2. There are numerous other hiking routes to explore at your leisure.
3️⃣ You can still access the Torre Peak for free by following the Laguna Torre Trail, saving you 45 USD!
4️⃣ The orange, purple, and gold lines intersect, allowing you to enter for free. For instance, the intersection of the orange and purple Fitz Roy lines is known as Madre e Hija. The downside is that it adds about 7-8 km compared to entering from the paid gate, making it a good option for those who want to save money and don’t mind the extra distance.
5️⃣ Entry before 7 AM from the main gate is free. This is more recommended than the previous option. Enter at 6:50 AM, as sunrise is between 7-8 AM. After ascending, you’ll be treated to a spectacular sunrise and the golden light on Fitz Roy, which is hundreds of times more beautiful than during the day.
6️⃣ For the last kilometer of the purple line, it’s advisable for those without a strong fitness base to use trekking poles; even wooden sticks will do. If you plan to see the sunrise, bring a headlamp or use your phone for lighting.
7️⃣ It’s currently autumn, with the mountains covered in vibrant red leaves, creating a picturesque scene. However, temperatures are quite low. After sweating from the hike, you’ll feel cold quickly once you stop. It’s recommended to wear quick-dry clothing, and a hat and gloves are essential.
8️⃣ Toilets are available at the 2.5 km viewpoint and near the campsite at the end for the Torre trail. For the FitzRoy trail, toilets are located at the 4km and 8km campsites.
9️⃣ For trail snacks, bananas and nuts are highly recommended. There are two large supermarkets in town: Supermercado and Lo de Lourdes Supermercado, as well as a store specializing in mountain snack supplies: Sunset Minimarket.
🔟 When taking the fork on the FitzRoy trail, it’s recommended to take the left path, where you can see Laguna Capri. The reflection of the peak in the lake is absolutely stunning.
