An ultimate multi-day hike in Argentinian Patagonia. Trekking El Chalten circuit, especially to Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre, is definitely one of the best classical treks in Patagonia. We enjoyed this adventure acompanied by the strog wind gusts and explored the Argentinian wilderness in a proper way.
El Chalten Circuit – Jewel of Patagonia
El Chalten circuit is a multi-day trek and it´s definitely the top trekking destination in Patagonia in Argentina. Despite it´s very popular, I still consider this hike as a much more relaxed destination than hikes in Torres del Paine. This multi-day trek will take You to the best corners of Argentinian Patagonia. Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre both spiky summits are magnets to the world´s adventurers and are considered as a holy grail for climbers. Both located in Southern Patagonian Ice Field in South America a region which is a reason for disputes between Argentina and Chile. With just a little bit of preparation, we could easily observe both peaks and hike in Los Glaciares National park on our own.
Best time to go
The best time for trekking the circuit is definitely the summer period of the region. Patagonian peak season start in late October and ends in mid of April. Due to a relatively narrow range of activities outside the main season, the majority of hotels and services are closed at that off-season time.
Maps and navigation in El Chalten circuit
It´s relatively easy to navigate on the trek thanks to signposts and many people on trails. Despite obvious paths I´m happy we took a map with us which we got and which are available in El Chalten. We were feeling even more comfortable to use GPS as there are plenty of offline downloadable maps on the market which helps with the anvigation very well.
Day 1 – El Chalten – Poincenot campsite
In the morning we starting from the park gate at a Parking lot at El Chalten. Surprisingly there are no entrance fees as are usual at other top attractions at Patagonia. After initial ascent not further than 1 km, we reach Mirador Río de las Vueltas. Luckily we weren´t lazy and went to the edge so we could get a sweet reward to see the river valley. Ascending more through the forest full of singing birds and beating woodpeckers to the point where the route divides.
We could deliberately choose from both alternatives, but both alternatives lead to the same point. One takes You to the Lake Capri, where is also one of the campsites. The alternative leads to a wonderful viewpoint. Here we have a chance to see majestic Fitz Roy for the first time.
From the point where both trails connect we continue on a leveled path free of dense trees. Crossing few streams being rewarded by views until we reach the campsite Poincenot. I recommend to leave the backpack here, as the return is the same way from Fitz Roy viewpoint back here. Also, the trail starts to be hard from this point on.
El Chalten a.k.a Fitz Roy – The highlight of the day.
From the campsite, we have to get over 400 elevation meters via the zig-zag path. Once we reach the top we couldn´t regret climbing the scree! It´s simply beautiful! Lago de Los tres, rugged ridge so high that one’s breath goes shallow. Let´s not be lazy get up on the small hill on the left side and be struck by another surprise. Laguna Sucia a deep blue gem with a waterfall dropping in it flowing from the glacier above.
Unfortunately, we have to go the same way back to the campsite Poincenot. Sometimes is very crowded and if You are searching for privacy continue to another campsite as we did, but be aware that it´s 11kilometers far.
Day 2 – Poincenot campsite – Laguna Torre – El Chalten – 20km
As most of the trekkers do start in the morning from camping Poincenot following the trail west. This easy leveled section gives us a plenty of time to enjoy all possible view angles of Mount Fitz Roy. Passing along two Lagunas Madre and Hija (mother and Daughter). This section is not that interesting and can be a bit exhausting and stereotype.
That changes quickly as descending to the valley where the main trail from El Chalten to Laguna Torre leads. Passing one viewpoint and reaching the alternative route to the campsite. In that campsite, there is a small tent with a shop mostly used by climbers attempting Cerro Torre. It´s also an opportunity to spend a night here by prolonging the day 1. Or just in case You want to go 3 days trek. This campsite is usually much more relaxed and free than Poincenot.
Cerro Torre another spike pointing to the sky
It´s just a few hundreds of meters to very impressive place Mirador Lago Torres. Massive glacier flowing to the grey lake with sharp guardian Cerro Torre in background. To get closer to this majestic spike I recommend to follow the narrow trail on the right side of the lake to Mirador Maestri.
Going down to El Chalten is approximately 9km hike mostly downhill. Don´t worry still many great viewpoints on the way down! We left the car at the parking lot and went the way down taking the left alternative on the map. In case your destination is a center of El Chalten go straight from the mirador Dos Condores and soon You will reach your destination.
Looking back from El Chalten
Once we reached the town we are regrating a bit and would love to undertake it again! I´m sure this trek in the pristine nature truely amazedus and we are only sorry we didn´t have more time. TThere are more of those and actually plenty of other treks and opprotunities in the region how to prolong the stay in El Chalten. If you are plannig to do the same let us know in the comment your thoughts or just leave your experience.
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