Wild Argentina: Hiking in Hidden Patagonia
Suggested Itinerary
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Overview
Remote and dramatic, the breathtaking setting of Argentine Patagonia provides the backdrop to this exceptional trekking adventure. Blessed with some of the most spectacular natural beauty anywhere in the Americas, this irresistibly wild landscape is filled with immense glaciers, turquoise lakes and some of the most powerful mountain vistas on earth....
Remote and dramatic, the breathtaking setting of Argentine Patagonia provides the backdrop to this exceptional trekking adventure. Blessed with some of the most spectacular natural beauty anywhere in the Americas, this irresistibly wild landscape is filled with immense glaciers, turquoise lakes and some of the most powerful mountain vistas on earth.
Following a short stop in Buenos Aires, Argentina’s dynamic and exciting capital, your journey takes you on to the town of El Chaltén, deep in the heart of the Los Glaciares National Park in Patagonia. This will be your base for two full days of trekking through the World Heritage landscapes of one of Patagonia’s most renowned national parks, Parque Nacional Los Glaciares. A drive along Argentina’s famous Ruta 40 (Route 40) then brings you to the impressive wilderness of the Perito Moreno National Park, home to some of the country’s most striking mountain scenery.
After trekking around the isolated Lake Belgrano peninsula and to the summit of Monte Leon you’ll return to the world by way of El Calafate, located on the southern shores of Lago Argentino. Here, the tour concludes with a visit to the vast ice fields of the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier before flying back to Buenos Aires.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
Suggested Itinerary
This is a suggested itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes, or build a trip from scratch.
Day 1 Arrive Buenos Aires
Day 1 Arrive Buenos Aires
Upon arrival in Buenos Aires, your private guide and driver will be waiting to meet and greet you before taking you to settle into your hotel in the trendy Palermo district. You can then take things easy for the rest of the day, giving you the chance to rest after the long arrival flight and before the active itinerary ahead.
Day 2 Buenos Aires - El Chalten
Day 2 Buenos Aires - El Chalten
Leaving the bustle of Buenos Aires behind, fly down to El Calafate this morning in the heart of Argentine Patagonia. On arrival, your private local guide will then be waiting to transfer you to the town of El Chaltén, the undisputed national capital for trekking. Nestled within the spectacular embrace of Los Glaciares National Park, the drive circumnavigates the glittering glacial lakes of Argentino and Viedma, taking around 3.5 hours to reach Argentina's youngest town. Time permitting, you'll be taken to the former house of famed Danish pioneer, Andreas Madsen, this afternoon for a tour and some tea.
Day 3 El Chalten: Hike in World Heritage Landscapes
Day 3 El Chalten: Hike in World Heritage Landscapes
Waking refreshed this morning, the adventure begins with a full day's hike up to the giant geographical fault of Pliegue Tumbado. A relatively gentle introduction to your Patagonian trekking adventure, the trail leads up through the Los Glaciares national park’s World Heritage landscapes, decorated with ancient fossils and some breathtaking 360-degree views across the rugged granite peaks and dazzling glaciers of the vast South Patagonian Ice Field. Returning via the same route, this evening has been left free to explore the town at your own pace.
*Approx. hiking stats: 20km/800m alt gain/approx. 7 hours.
Day 4 El Chalten: Mount Fitz Roy
Day 4 El Chalten: Mount Fitz Roy
A short drive this morning is followed by a gentle walk up through the forest towards the beautiful lake of Laguna de los Tres. Today's hike has it all: glacial valleys, endemic forests, lagoons and bewitching glaciers. The final 400-metre stretch is challenging, but the magnificent views of Mount Fitzroy, Aguja Poincenot and Cerro Torre more than make up for it. After an unbelievably scenic lunch stop, the trail back down then takes you past the crystalline waters of Laguna Capri, before the final descent down to El Chaltén.
*Approx. hiking stats: 22km/800m alt gain/approx. 8-9 hours.
Day 5 El Chalten - Perito Moreno National Park
Day 5 El Chalten - Perito Moreno National Park
Beginning early this morning, the long but ultimately spectacular drive to Perito Moreno National Park takes you deep into the heart of some of Patagonia's wildest landscapes. The journey follows part of Argentina's legendary Ruta 40 (Route 40) and through towns that still feel a part of an undiscovered country. There will be a stop for lunch at rural place along the way, and the last section of the journey follows a gravel road into the park and on to the old sheep ranch that will be your home for the next three nights.
Day 6 Perito Moreno National Park: Lake Belgrano Hike
Day 6 Perito Moreno National Park: Lake Belgrano Hike
Founded nearly a century ago, the Perito Moreno National Park is home to the spectacular snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Colorada. Wild and remote, these towering mountains stand sentry over some of the most breathtaking scenery anywhere in the Americas. Today you will hike around the beautiful turquoise waters of Lake Belgrano which, set against the backdrop of some of the highest mountains in the area, is one of the most spectacular treks in the park.
*Approx. hiking stats: 16km/200m alt gain/approx. 6-7 hours.
Day 7 Perito Moreno National Park: Monte Leon Summit
Day 7 Perito Moreno National Park: Monte Leon Summit
The plan today is to hike to the summit of Monte Leon to enjoy some truly spectacular panoramas across the Patagonian peaks and Lake Belgrano. Beginning at the trailhead next to your estancia, the path leads up past towering cliffs that are home to the mighty condor, one of the largest birds on the planet. It should take around four hours to reach the top, from where the views stretch out towards the snow-capped Andes and the Belgrano peninsula. Return to the ranch the same way.
*Approx. hiking stats: 10km/600m alt gain/approx. 5-6 hours.
Day 8 Perito Moreno National Park - El Calafate
Day 8 Perito Moreno National Park - El Calafate
Following breakfast, you’ll set out on the road once more heading back towards El Calafate and the outside world. Stopping en route to break the long journey up, you'll visit the site of some indigenous cave paintings close to Tres Lagos and enjoy a coffee stop at an old inn at La Leona. The inn is built close to the site where, allegedly, Perito Moreno fought a puma by hand, and survived! You should arrive in El Calafate in time to freshen up and relax a bit before dinner.
Day 9 El Calafate: Perito Moreno Glacier
Day 9 El Calafate: Perito Moreno Glacier
A trip to Patagonia would not be complete without visiting one of Argentina’s most famous landmarks. After breakfast you will be picked up and taken out towards the Patagonian Andes where the immense Perito Moreno, amongst other glaciers, is located. Spanning 250 square kilometres and soaring out of the lake at over 60 metres, you’ll understand why this glacier has become a symbol of Patagonia. Viewing the glacier from both the water and the walkways surrounding it allows you to observe the natural wonder from all angles, hopefully catching the unforgettable moment a gigantic slab of ice calves from the glacier crashing into the water below. You will then return to El Calafate for your final evening in Argentina.
*For those interested, a stop at the Glaciarium Interpretation Centre can also be arranged for further insight or, alternatively, an hour-and-a-half trek on the glacier itself can be organised in advance for a more immersive experience.
Day 10 El Calafate - Depart Buenos Aires
Day 10 El Calafate - Depart Buenos Aires
This morning you will head back to the airport to catch your short flight to Buenos Aires where a private guide and driver at your disposal can be arranged for a few hours to explore the city before a later flight back home. You can enjoy some of the capital’s highlights and perhaps get a bite to eat in a fine steakhouse before returning back to the international airport, where your adventure ends.
SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
Legado Mitico, Buenos Aires
Centrally located, the stylish, boutique hotel is found within easy reach of the trendy Palermo Soho area of Buenos Aires and the main attractions of Recoleta. The smart artwork decorating the walls and books stacked on the shelves of the library are a reminder of the Argentinean sophistication that the country is known for. The classic-style, modern furniture found throughout the four-star hotel also speaks to this. The 11 guest rooms are individually and enjoy city views. Elegant common areas such as the decked patio, rooftop terrace and relaxing lobby and breafast area provide a relaxed atmosphere to retire to away from the bustling city. Staff are friendly and engaging with a strong love of their city.
Hosteria Senderos, El Chalten
Located at the entrance to El Chaltén town below the imposing Mount Fitz Roy sits Hostería Senderos, a chalet-style accommodation inspired by the 1920s farms f the region. Throughout the boutique hotel and its 21 rooms you will find typical Patagonian décor. The rooms are comfortable and simply decorated with wooden flooring, ceilings and furniture. There is a cosy fireplace and lounge area, an inviting bar where wines can be paired with Patagonian dishes, and a packed lunch can be prepared for day hikes.
Estancia La Oriental, Perito Moreno National Park
Whilst visiting the isolated Perito Moreno National Park, Estancia La Oriental by far provides the most comfortable accommodation in the area with basic amenities, including hot water and heating. The humble family home consists of seven simple rooms, capable of housing up to 22 people and affords a great location for exploring the ruggedly beautiful landscapes of this backcountry, without having to carry a raft of camping equipment. Home-cooked meals are prepared in the family kitchen for guests as there aren’t any dining options around, given the remoteness of the area.
Los Ponchos, El Calafate
Not far from central El Calafate, Los Ponchos is a comfortable and elegant option in the town. Rooms are light and airy decorated with neutral tones and great views of Lake Argentino, which sits just 500m away providing easy access for guests. Each room is equipped with a modern kitchen, a living area and satellite TV, providing ample space to relax and unwind after touring and hiking in the region, however, there is a lovely on-site restaurant as well. Los Ponchos is especially well located designed for exploring the surrounding forests and mountain trails.
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
GUIDELINE PRICE & WHAT’S INCLUDED
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Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
| Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
| Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
| Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
| Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
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