Marjolein Dilven
What small town is known as Argentina’s “National Hiking Capital”? If you’re an avid hiker on your way to Argentina’s Patagonia, the ultimate destination is El Chaltén, Argentina.
El Chaltén is a little village in Santa Cruz, Argentina, by the side of the Rio de las Vueltas River in Los Glaciares National Park. It sits at the bottom of the big Cerro Torre and Cerro Fitz Roy mountains, which are great for climbing. People call it the “National Capital of Trekking in Argentina” because there are many trails and outdoor activities.
The village started on October 12, 1985, and now about 3,000 people live there.
El Chaltén, which means “the smoky mountain,” refers to the smoke-like clouds clustered near the peak of the mountain, which was later renamed Cerro Fitz Roy. This breathtaking sight is just one of the numerous landscapes that make trekking in El Chaltén a must.
I spent a full week in El Chaltén last year and really enjoyed it. We did tons of hiking, enjoyed beers, ate good pies, and waited for good weather before planning our activities. When you go to El Chaltén, make sure that you build in a couple of extra days since the weather can be very unpredictable. It was mostly rainy there, so we were happy we took the extra time to pick a day when the weather was the least terrible.
El Chaltén is an excellent base for exploring the Patagonian Andes. The village is surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery, making it an ideal place to base yourself for hiking. There are also plenty of other activities that you can do in El Chaltén, including climbing, mountain biking, rafting, and horse riding.
23 Best Things to Do in El Chaltén, Argentina
1. Hike the Laguna de Los Tres
Laguna de Los Tres is a famous hike in Patagonia, starting from El Chaltén in Argentina. Also called the Fitz Roy hike, it’s a full-day adventure covering 15 miles (24 kilometers). The trail begins at the end of Avenida San Martín, and you can choose to do it as a challenging day hike or a 2-day trek to catch the sunrise over Fitzroy mountain.
The difficulty suits hikers of different fitness levels, but it’s generally recommended for experienced hikers due to its challenging nature. The hike typically takes 7 to 10 hours, depending on your pace and fitness level.
For additional recommendations, exploring other hikes, such as El Mirador de los Cóndores, Laguna Capri, Mirador del Torre, Viedma Glacier, and Glaciar Huemul, is also worthwhile for things to do in Patagonia.
2. Go For a Day Hike to Laguna Torre
If you’re looking for a day hike that’s easy to get to yet still offers breathtaking views, look no further than Laguna Torre. Located at the base of Cerro Torre (the third tallest mountain in Patagonia), this lagoon is accessible via several different paths, including Laguna de Los Tres and Laguna Francesa.
The trek to Laguna Torre is easier and quite flat, unlike the more challenging Laguna de Los Tres hike. It’s a fantastic choice for nature lovers, providing lovely views and chances to see wildlife.
3. Go Glacier Trekking in Los Glaciares National Park
Los Glaciares National Park is home to the largest icefield in Argentina, which is not only beautiful but also a great place to see wildlife. You can hike there on your own or with a guide. But if you’re looking for an easygoing experience that doesn’t require special equipment (or prior experience), try the guided tour with El Chaltén Trekking. It takes about 6 hours round-trip and costs about 17,588.89 Argentinan pesos (49 US dollars) per person.
4. Visit Cerro Fitz Roy
Cerro Fitz Roy, which translates to “Bald Hill,” is a 4,096-foot mountain in the Andes of Patagonia. It’s one of the most iconic peaks on Earth and is beloved by hikers due to its unparalleled views; some claim that no other mountain has such stunning scenery! If you’re looking for some of the best views in Patagonia, nothing beats Cerro Fitz Roy.
5. Hike to the Chorrillo del Salto Waterfall
There are no fees to access Chorillo del Salto Waterfall. The hike from El Chaltén to Chorrillo del Salto is a two to three-hour trek, which you can take either with a guide or solo. It will allow you to see amazing views of glaciers and mountains no matter your route! Hikes are only recommended during summer as it gets very cold during other seasons.
6. Stay at Piedra del Fraile
Piedra del Fraile, nestled in the Electrico Valley north of Mount Fitz Roy in El Chaltén, is a delightful campsite. The hidden gem is renowned for its natural beauty and offers an easy and comfortable trekking trail with stunning views of the imposing North Face of Mount Fitz Roy.
For those seeking a distinctive and memorable outdoor experience, the campsite provides the option to spend the night in a tent or dorm, surrounded by tranquil and picturesque surroundings. What’s more, access to this enchanting spot is free of charge.
7. La Leona Petrified Forest
Located just outside of El Chaltén on the road to San Carlos de Bariloche, La Leona Petrified Forest is a protected area that has become one of Argentina’s most popular tourist destinations. It is a national park with many petrified trees and other attractions like hiking trails and scenic views.
8. Visit Perito Moreno Glacier
Perito Moreno Glacier is a large glacier in the Los Glaciares National Park in the Patagonian Andes. It is about an hour from El Chaltén, and you can access it by bus or private car. It has stunning sights and bustling wildlife.
9. Horseback Riding Tours
Horseback riding is a great way to get up close and personal with the mountains of El Chaltén.
The horses are well cared for, trained well, and fed regularly. They are also treated with care and love by their handlers, who work with them daily, so they feel comfortable around people. The horses are also groomed daily, which helps them stay clean while doing what they do best!
10. Biking
Biking is one of the most favorite pastimes in El Chaltén, and for good reason! A great way to get to know the area is by renting a bike from one of the many shops in town or joining a guided tour. One of the routes to explore is to go around Laguna de Los Tres Spas.
11. Spas
A spa is the best option to treat your body and mind to much-deserved relaxation. You can select a spa that caters specifically to your needs. Massages, facials, and body treatments are just some of the various options offered in spas. It’s a wonderful part of your Patagonia itinerary, letting you rediscover yourself surrounded by the natural beauty of El Chaltén.
12. Have a Craft Beer at Fresco Bar
Fresco Bar is a good place to enjoy a cold craft beer. It allows travelers to mingle with locals and other visitors over food and drinks while listening to Latin American music.
Drinks are cheap during happy hour (5-7 p.m.)—and so is the delicious food! A pint of beer at these times costs about 600 ARS ($2) on average.
13. Skateboarding and Skiing
Skiers and snowboarders flock to El Chaltén because of the local ski resorts. It’s a brief but sweet season, lasting from June to September. Since El Chaltén is not a popular destination for skiing, the backcountry ski community is giving beginner and intermediate multi-day courses. Local guides teach these courses to meet the growing interest in skiing.
14. Museums
El Chaltén is home to over a dozen museums. The Museo del Glaciar and the Museo de la Patagonia are the most famous museums in the area. You shouldn’t overlook the Museo de Historia Natural or the Torre Fitz Roy Museum, both of which provide breathtaking panoramas of Mount Fitz Roy.
15. Viewpoints
No matter the time of day or weather, breathtaking scenes can be enjoyed from numerous vantage points throughout the town. Some of these, like Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, and Royal Gorge, offer stunning scenery, allowing tourists to mingle with locals who have been coming here every year since childhood.
16. Nature and Wildlife
El Chaltén is a wildlife enthusiast’s dream destination due to the richness of native flora and fauna. Caracaras, condors, and pumas are a few wildly varied animal species that call this region home (though these last two are more elusive). El Chaltén is home to many different species of flora and fauna, from tiny hummingbirds to massive eagles.
17. Boating
One of the best things to do in El Chaltén is boating. From Puerto Bandera (1.5 hours from El Chaltén), you can board a boat for 45 minutes up Lago Argentino to view the magnificent Perito Moreno glacier. This site is well-renowned; National Geographic and BBC Earth have highlighted this glacier as a major tourist attraction.
18. Enjoying New Cuisine
One of the best parts of any trip is trying new foods. There are several inexpensive dining options, both in and outside El Chaltén. It has a fantastic variety of eateries, coffee shops, and gelato parlors. You’ll find it here whether you’re looking for fast food or luxury dining. Coffeehouses and bakeries have become icons of the community as well.
19. Climbing
Climbing is a terrific way to experience the natural beauty of El Chaltén, especially if you’re looking for something more active than hiking. The area is famous for its many climbing routes and mountains.
Climbing can be dangerous, though. It requires good equipment, outdoor experience, and proper training. You will also need to pay an entrance fee before entering any mountain or national park that allows climbers access The activity is usually around 9,700 ARS – 14,500 ARS ($10-$15).
20. Paragliding
Paragliding is a fun activity that you can do with your friends and family or even by yourself. Paragliding is good for the environment because it doesn’t use fossil fuels, and it makes you feel like you’re flying on one of the beautiful mountains in El Chaltén. It’s also a great way to see how stunning this part of Argentina is.
21. Rafting
Rafting is one of the best ways to experience El Chaltén. Many companies offer this adventure, including Río de las Vueltas and Rio Azul. If you’re looking for more of a challenge, try rafting the Rio Fitz Roy!
22. Ice Climbing
If you want to experience the mountains in a challenging and exciting way, ice climbing is for you. You can do it in winter or summer, and it’s a great way to get away from other tourists and crowds. However, before climbing, be sure you’re experienced enough to do so safely! Ice climbing isn’t just fun; it’s also challenging and rewarding.
23. Fly Fishing
Fly fishing is a more challenging way to fish, but it’s also a great way for beginners and experienced anglers to see El Chaltén from a different perspective. You’ll need to obtain a fishing permit from the park authorities before you head out.
Once ready, you can hire a guide or learn from one of the many books available at local shops. You’ll need to be able to cast your fly rod with precision so that when the fish bites, it gets attached to your line instead of just swimming away with your bait!
How To Get to El Chaltén, Argentina
El Chalténis in the Patagonian Andes of southern Argentina, bordering Chile to the west. It lies between two major cities: Buenos Aires and Ushuaia. It is possible to fly into either city and then travel by bus or car to El Chaltén through Chile’s Carretera Austral.
Alternatively, you could fly into Santiago de Chile airport and cross the border into Argentina at Rio Gallegos (or vice versa). Once you reach El Chaltén, several roads lead out of town toward surrounding peaks—the most popular being Fitz Roy Mountain.
Where To Stay in El Chaltén
El Chaltén is a popular tourist destination, so there are a lot of accommodation options available. The town has plenty of hotels, hostels, and rental properties. You can find budget accommodations for under 29,000 ARS ($30) per night, mid-range properties for 39,000 ARS to 68,000 ARS ($40 to $70) per night, or luxury rentals for over 97,000 ARS ($100) per night.
If you’re looking for camping or guesthouses, there are plenty of those too! There’s no shortage of choices regarding where you stay during your visit.
There are plenty of options available if you prefer to stay in a hotel. There’s the Hosteria Las Pircas, one of the town’s top-rated hotels. You can also check out Hotel Nido del Condor, which has great views from its balconies, or Patagonia Backpackers, which offers dorm-style rooms with shared bathrooms.
For something a bit more unique, you can stay in an apartment or casita for 48,000 ($50) per night or rent a room at El Chaltén Backpackers. If you want to feel local and stay in an actual house, check out Casa de Los Santos.
For more accommodation options, you may click on the map.
Important Travelers Tips To Stay Safe In El Chaltén Argentina
Travel Insurance
You can never be too careful when traveling to a foreign country, especially if you plan on climbing mountains and exploring the wilderness.
Consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing, which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay. Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!
Good Walking Boots
You’ll want to pack a pair of hiking boots or walkers because they will come in handy when you’re exploring the mountainous terrain of El Chaltén, Argentina. Bring two pairs so one can dry while using the other one!
Warm Clothes for Winter Months
It gets cold there during winter, so it is essential that you bring warm clothing with you, like hats, scarves, and gloves (just in case). Consider packing some thick jumpers/sweaters just in case it’s not as warm as expected.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – El Chaltén Argentina
What Is El Chaltén Known For?
El Chaltén is globally recognized as the “National Capital of Trekking in Argentina” due to its many options for mountain sports in unique natural surroundings. Known worldwide as a top hiking destination, El Chaltén attracts travelers and outdoor enthusiasts, serving as the gateway to the enchanting landscapes of southern Patagonia.
Is El Chaltén in Argentina or Chile?
El Chaltén is in Argentina, a little mountain village in Santa Cruz Province. Despite a border dispute with Chile in 1985, Argentina was granted ownership of El Chaltén.
How Do I Get to El Chaltén?
The easiest way to get from Bariloche to El Chaltén is by bus, which departs from the bus terminal in downtown Bariloche every hour or so. The ride takes about five hours and costs around 150 CLP ($10). From El Chaltén, you can take a one-hour bus trip (or hike!) up to Laguna Torre.
How Many Days Should I Spend in El Chaltén?
If you are short on time, 1-2 days is enough to see the highlights. If you want to explore further, plan 3-4 days in El Chaltén. Plan for at least five days going in and around El Chaltén for a more relaxed pace and flexibility.
Conclusion – El Chaltén Argentina
El Chaltén in Argentina is a fantastic place for people who love the outdoors. There are many things to do, like hiking, climbing, and going on trips. Most trails start in El Chaltén, so it’s super convenient.
You can use El Chaltén as a starting point to explore cool places like Laguna Torre and Laguna de los Tres. If you’re into adventures and nature, El Chaltén is like a dream come true, giving you a special experience right in the heart of Argentine Patagonia. El Chaltén is one of the best places to visit in Argentina.
Don’t miss out on these amazing spots when you visit Argentina!
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Founder of Spark Nomad, Radical FIRE, Copywriter
Expertise: Personal finance and travel content. I’m a full-time traveler, and I’ve been to 49 countries and 5 continents.
Education: Bachelor of Economics at Radboud University, Master in Finance at Radboud University, Minor in Economics at Chapman University.
Over 200 articles, essays, and short stories published across the web.
Marjolein Dilven is a journalist and founder of Spark Nomad, a travel platform, and Radical FIRE, a personal finance platform. Marjolein has a finance and economics background with a master’s in Finance. She has quit her job to travel the world, documenting her travels on Spark Nomad to help people plan their travels. Marjolein Dilven has written for publications like MSN, Associated Press, CNBC, Town News syndicate, and more.