fitz roy trek argentina

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Fitz Roy Trek Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Argentina , Hikes , Patagonia , South & Central America

One of the most well-known mountains in South America is Mount Fitz Roy. This mountain is an emblem of Patagonia and I was thrilled to check hiking Fitz Roy off my bucket list. It should be on everyone’s list for backpacking Patagonia .

At 3,375 m, the jagged peaks create one of the most dramatic landscapes on earth. Every year, the famous Fitz Roy draws huge crowds of trekkers to its slopes.

Even though its a bit of a climb, the trail is manageable enough for novices. It is still attractive for seasoned trekkers. In this guide you will find everything you need to know about hiking Fitz Roy.

Fitz Roy Trek - Know Before You Go

Where is mount fitz roy.

Also known as Cerro Chalten, Mount Fitz Roy is located on the border between Argentina and Chile. It is near the village of con the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. El Chaltén is a tiny village on the edge of Los Glaciares National Park.

View of El Chalten From The Fitz Roy Trail

Regional Map

The Fitz Roy trek is situated in the Los Glaciares National Park near the southern tip of South America. The park itself is located 112 km north of Puerto Natales and 312 km north of Punta Arenas.

Map courtesy of Elchalten.com

How To Get To El Chaltén 

The closest airport to El Chaltén is El Calafate. There are several direct flights each day from Buenos Airies to El Calafate. Aerolineas Argentina offers reasonable rates on this route starting from $350 return.

If you are making a stop in El Calafate, it is worth visiting the famous Perito Moreno Glacier.

Perito Moreno Glacier, a day trip from El Calafate

From El Calafate, the cheapest way to get to El Chaltén is by bus. The ride is about 2.5 hours and costs around $35- $45. If you have the budget for it, you can rent a car and drive yourself to El Chalten.

This is the cool welcome sign you see on arrival in El Chalten. Picture by Liam Quinn .

Accommodation in El Chaltén

El Chaltén is a charming little village but can get busy over Patagonia’s peak trekking season (November-March). At this time, you will find it difficult to get a hostel room.

There are plenty of campsites which cost $10-$20 dollars per night. I rolled into town without any pre-bookings and managed to find a spot to pitch my tent.

Fair warning, campsites in El Chalten are fairly packed. If you are looking for something more peaceful, I recommend staying at one of the sites on the road to Laguna Del Desierto. This will only really work if you have your own vehicle as these sites are a few kilometers from town.

Food And Restaurants In El Chaltén

There are a few grocery stores in El Chaltén where you will be able to buy snacks and supplies. I found Supermercado El Chalten had the widest range, good fresh produce, and the best prices.

Grocery prices in El Chaltén are high compared to the rest of Argentina. If you are on a tight budget, it would be better to stock up at the supermarket in El Calafate.

El Chalten is a tourist mecca and you will find plenty of restaurants to choose from.

There are also some great bars and craft breweries to enjoy a cold beer after a long day of trekking. La Cervaceria was my favorite for their selection of craft beers and is also a good spot to meet fellow travellers.

Mount Fitz Roy Hike

When you hear about the Fitz Roy trek, people are usually talking about the trail that takes you to the Fitz Roy viewpoint. You hike to the base of the mountain where you get an epic view.

Fitz Roy Viewpoint as the trail ends

Here we go into more detail about your options for trekking Fitz Roy.

Have People Climbed Fitz Roy To The Top?

The mountain was first climbed by French alpinists Lionel Terray and Guido Magnone in 1952. It remains to this day, one of the most difficult ascents on the planet.

Only exceptionally skilled mountaineers climb the peaks to the top. This is not really an option for everyday tourists.

How Long Is The Fitz Roy Hike?

You have two options for hiking Fitz Roy. You can either do the trail as a leisurely 3-4 day trek or as a full day hike.

The trek is considered an easy multi-day hike and only a basic level of fitness is required. The trails are well-defined and there are ranger stations dotted along the path. All this means that the Fitz Roy is an ideal option for inexperienced trekkers.

Fitz Roy Hike Elevation

The total elevation gain on the Fitz Roy hike is 864m or 2835ft. There is no altitude sickness risks as the elevation of the trek stays fairly regular throughout.

Hiking Fitz Roy- Your Options

Fitz roy day hike.

It is completely possible to hike Fitz Roy in a single day. This and other Patagonian treks can be done unguided.

The trail from El Chalten to the lookout point and back is 21km/ 13 miles (10.5km/ 6.5 miles each way).

I’d suggest leaving between 6 and 7 am to avoid the crowds and get back before the hottest part of the day.

The trail begins at the edge of town, at the end of San Martin Street. There’s a big parking lot with a sign that says ‘Sendero el Fitz Roy’. From here you wind your way upslope. You get some good views of the town from the top.

The trail passes by Laguna Capri which is also a campsite. This is a good spot for a snack or a swim. That’s if you can brave the cold water!

Laguna Capri

After Laguna Capri, the trail flattens out and it is an easy walk. After a few more kilometers, you will reach a forest and the Poincenot campground.

Shortly after passing the campsite, you get to the base of the final slope. You will know you are at this final ascent because there are signs warning that you need to be in good physical condition to complete this climb.

The final ascent is only 800m or so but it is no joke . You will be trekking almost straight up on a gravel path. There is also very little shade along this stretch which makes it even more challenging. When the Fitz Roy trail is busy, a queue forms all the way up and down.

Hang in there!

Almost at the top of a very gravelly ascent

Once you reach the top, you will know the effort was worth it. As you come over the top of the slope, sparkling blue Laguna De Los Tres.

There is a trail that continues to the left of Los Tres, upslope to a hidden laguna which is the main lookout point. Not everybody, including myself at the time knows about the continued pathway. It’s well worth it if you can summon the extra energy.

After spending some time at the top, you return to El Chalten the same way.

Hiking Fitz Roy (3-4 Day Option)

The Fitz Roy trek is generally around 30km in length and takes 1-3 days to complete depending on how much walking you wish to do each day.

If you book a 3-4 day Fitz Roy Trek tour or choose to do an extended version yourself, this is what each day will look like:

Day 1: Spend the night in El Chalten

You will likely spend the first night in a hostel or campground in El Chalten. Buy any last-minute supplies and get a good night's sleep before your trek.

Day 2: El Chalten - Laguno de Los Tres

Today is the beginning of your hike as you trek to Laguna Los Tres all the while getting stunning views of Mount Fitz Roy.

The trail begins by winding its way to Laguna Capri where you pass the lake’s northern corner.

From there you follow the path uphill to Blanco River, passing Poicenot – the mountaineering camp. From the camp, it’s a short, steep trail up to one of the park’s most famous locations, Laguna de Los Tres.

Its a rewarding feeling reaching Laguna de Los Tres

The famed turquoise-blue lagoon sits idyllically below the granite spires of Fitz Roy and makes for a photographer's dream! You have lunch here then head back down the trail to Poicenot where you camp overnight.

Day 3: Cerro Fitzroy, Laguna de los Tres

Day three is not too long so feel free to set off a bit later. Begin by hiking along the Fitzroy trail up to Rio Blanco.

Here is the climbers’ base camp where mountaineers begin their epic climb.

From this vantage point, you’ll be as close to Mount Fitz Roy as you can get without climbing it. You’ll be able to stare straight up at the towering spires that rise over 1500 meters above the surrounding glaciers.

After having lunch at the base camp you then descend back down to Poincenot Camp where you stay overnight once again.

Day 4: Cerro Torre to El Chaltén

Take a nice breakfast before exploring the trail around Laguna Capri as you head to Lagoons Madre within the stunning Hija Valley.

Laguna Madre

After having a long lunch, take the trail down to the Fitzroy River Valley where join the Cerro Torre Trail.

Once on the trail, you trek to Laguna Torre which sits below the famous Cerro Torre group. This looks like something out of a postcard!

Finally, head back to El Chaltén where your trek ends.

Recommended Route Map

The best map we have found for the Fitz Roy Trek is the Monte Fitz Roy & Cerro Torre: Trekking-Mountaineering and Lago Del Desierto: Trekking – Travel Map .

The map provides a compressive satellite relief, contour lines, shelters, timed trails, camping and inns.

How to Prepare for Fitz Roy Trek

When is the best time to trek fitz roy.

The Fitz Roy Trek can be hiked all year round, however, certain seasons offer different things depending on what you are after. Below we have summarised each.

Whilst the landscape is one of rugged beauty, the weather is just as rugged with high winds and frequent storms. Make sure you bring the necessary gear to deal with this.

Fitz Roy In Spring – September to November

This is a great time of year to visit the park if you want warm, clear weather but without the crowds. Although not quite as warm as the summer months, the skies are often clear and you’ll get stunning views across the park. This is also the best season to see flowering flora in the region and witness the breeding season of wildlife.

A Breeding pair of Ashy Headed Geese on the Fitz Roy Trail

Fitz Roy In Summer – December to March

This is the high season. Although the trails are at their capacity now, the weather is also at its warmest and you’ll enjoy mostly clear days on your trek. If you’re the active type, then summer is also the period when you can horse ride, kayak, and mountain bike in the area.

Fitz Roy In Fall – March to June

Our favorite season. The landscape comes alive with color and the trails start to empty out as days become colder. The wind is often ferocious, but the beautiful views are worth it!

Fitz Roy In Winter – June to August

Although the majority of refugios are closed during this period, this season has the benefit of being the quietest. There will be very few other visitors and you’ll have many of the trails to yourself. This is the coldest period be prepared for very chilly nights and high winds.

How much does the Fitz Roy hike cost?

The cost of a Fitz Roy Trek varies depending on when you book flights, when you trek (out of season tends to be a little cheaper), and whether to trek with a local or western trekking agency or independently.

You should budget for the following key expenses:

• Visa, Vaccinations, Insurance etc:~$300-$500
• Equipment (buying and hiring):~$500-$800 – camping gear can be rented at the park entrance for $200.
• Return flights to El Calafate: ~$350-500
• Tour Agency: ~$500 for a cheap local agency to ~$2,000 for a pricey Western trekking agency. You could do an independent trek for less than $200 as many of the campsites are free. You will need to book early though. This price includes food, park entrance, and camping. Food can be purchased from refugios throughout the park, however, it is very expensive.
• Tips: ~$10-20
• Misc (additional food, unplanned travel/hotels etc): $50

Total cost for a Fitz roy trek (including all of the above): $2,000 – $4,000

Are permits required for the Fitz Roy Trek?

No, permits are not required to enter Los Glaciares National Park.

The sign to Los Glaciares National Park as you enter El Chalten

How difficult is Fitz Roy Hike?

The Fitz Roy Trek is not considered to be a difficult trek. The trail length is relatively short and the elevation remains fairly steady.

The trek is the ideal starting point for inexperienced trekkers and only a basic level of fitness is required to complete it. Saying that there is the occasional steep section and if you do the multi-day Fitz Roy trek then each day you will be walking for a good 3-4 hours.

Is altitude sickness a risk on the Fitz Roy Trek?

There is almost no risk of altitude sickness on the Fitz Roy Trek. The trail doesn't comes close to the altitude needed to bring on altitude sickness.

See our detailed article on altitude sickness for more details.

What gear do I need for the Fitz Roy Trek? (Fitz Roy packing list)

Trekking the Fitzroy trail requires a certain amount of essential pieces of trekking clothing and equipment. The Fitzroy Trek is often completed as a multi-day trek that travels through a number of landscapes.

Many pieces of equipment can be rented in El Chalten, but we recommend bringing the most important pieces of gear with you, this includes:

• Hiking shoes. I love a good/ multi-functional set of trail runners. Salomon Speedcross are always a solid bet. I'd suggest going up half a size for wider feet.
• Its worth investing in a good small backpack for day hikes. 20L capacity like this from This Osprey one are perfect for fitting snacks, a waterbottle and an extra jacket. If you are carrying around more equipment, you may want a 40/50l backpack .
• A Sleeping bag that withstands at least -9 degrees Celcius. The TETON Sports Leef is a good buy. Alternatively, rent a bag but bring your own Sleeping Bag Liner
• Trekking poles- A basic, affordable pair like these are more than good enough.
• A waterproof hiking tent (If you plan on camping). At 2.5kg, This one from Forceatt  isn't too heavy to carry

To help you plan and prepare for your trek we have written a detailed hiking gear list .

What kind of insurance do I need for the Fitz Roy trek?

Trekking insurance is always a must. Although unlikely, accidents do happen and can cost a lot of money. You should consider the cost of rescue from remote destinations. It is also a great idea to take out travel insurance for other related risks of travel such as loss of baggage, stolen gear, delays, and damaged equipment. See World Nomads for a quote.

Recommended Guidebook

The one guide book that stands above all others is Los Glaciares National Park Travel & Trekking Guide: Fitz Roy, Cerro Torre, Patagonian Ice Cap, Patagonia, Calafate, Chalten by Colin Henderson.

Other guide books available include Fodor’s Chile: with Easter Island & Patagonia (Travel Guide), and Backpacking in Chile: Travel Guide & Trekking Guide for Independent Travelers .

More guides to hiking Patagonia and hiking in South America .

• Patagonia W trek
• Torres del Paine O trek
• Best season to hike in Patagonia
• Hikes in Chile
• Hikes in Argentina

About the author 

Alison Macallister

With a degree in Nature Conservation and experience working with wildlife including the Big 5, Alison used to work as a guide for a 5-star safari reserve in South Africa. Today she is a full time traveller and editor for Mountain IQ. She has travelled and hiked extensively in South America, including many solo hikes in Patagonia, the Cusco region of Peru, Ecuador and Chile.

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I did the Fitz Roy day hike as described above in March 2006. I went alone, and didn't see a single other person the entire hike, which was a little daunting when you consider that as you leave El Chalten there were signs warning of pumas/mountain lions and what to do if one approaches you. That said, i didn't encounter any. I took 4 litres of drinking water, and had used 3/4 of it by the time i reached the campsite Campamento Poincenot, but luckily the water upstream was potable (there was a sign indicating as such). There was no evidence of any campers staying when i passed through, it was totally empty. As mentioned in the article, the final ascent to the glacial lake was tough going, but it was just as bad coming down. My legs were a little shaky by this time, since i hadn't really prepared for this hike in advance, and by the time i got back to El Chalten i was worn out ! In retrospect i was probably unprepared. i didn't have a map or compass, no serious wet weather gear, or even a first aid kit. I was wearing shorts, t-shirt with a fleece in case it cooled down. I was lucky with the weather, it was bright and sunny with odd small shower over other parts of the valley but they didn't get me wet. Tbh, at the time I didn't even know i was following a 'named' route – i just set off from the town and just tried to keep going in the right general direction to reach the glacial lake. It was definitely a lot further than i had been anticipating. All in all, though, it was a great trek and if i ever find myself down there again, i'd repeat the hike. Doubt i'd have it all to myself again though !

Thanks for sharing that Rob, what an amazing experience to have that area to yourself! I was there last year and I think those days are over…still. a stunning trek.

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Fitz Roy Patagonia: Laguna De Los Tres Hike (Argentina)

The famous Patagonia region of Argentina has some amazing hiking trails, but the very best would have to be the day hike to Mount Fitz Roy and the Laguna De Los Tres!

This entire trek is full of great scenery, and at the end you get to see a spectacular blue glacier lake called Laguna De Los Tres, which sits at the foot of Mount Fitz Roy, one of the most impressive and iconic peaks in South America.

The Fitz Roy hike is a challenge, with plenty of distance and elevation gain, but most hikers will still find it very doable. And even if you don’t go all the way to the lakes, you can still get amazing pictures of the mountains from the Fitz Roy Mirador (viewpoint) after only a moderate amount of hiking from the town of El Chalten.

This travel guide will explain how to do the Laguna De Los Tres hike, what to bring, best time to visit, how to get to El Chalten, and everything else you need to know before you go!

Table of Contents show 1) Fitz Roy Quick Facts* 2) Where Is Mount Fitz Roy Located? 3) How To Get To El Chalten 4) Best Fitz Roy Patagonia Tours 5) Laguna De Los Tres Hike: What To Expect 6) • Starting The Hike From El Chalten 7) • Las Vueltas River Viewpoint 8) • Laguna Capri 9) • Mirador Del Fitz Roy Viewpoint 10) • Fitz Roy Secret Waterfall 11) • Fitz Roy Valley To Poincenot 12) • Climbing To Laguna De Los Tres 13) • Laguna De Los Tres: Lake & Viewpoint 14) Fitz Roy Hike Difficulty: How Hard Is It? 15) What To Bring 16) Best Time To Visit Patagonia 17) Other Tips For The Fitz Roy Hike 18) Other Tips For El Chalten Town 19) Fitz Roy Trailhead Location: How To Get There 20) El Chalten Trailhead Conditions 21) Alternative Trailhead: El Pilar 22) Is The Fitz Roy Hike Worth It? 23) More Patagonia Travel Tips  

Fitz Roy Quick Facts*

• Distance: 22 kilometers (14 miles) return
• Elevation Gain: 1,050 meters (3,445 feet)
• Ending Elevation: 1,175 meters (3,850 feet)
• Duration: 7 – 9 hours return
• Difficulty: Moderate / Hard

*These stats are for the full hike to the lake of Laguna De Los Tres from El Chalten. The Mirador (viewpoint) is shorter and easier.

Final view of the Laguna De Los Tres hike

Where Is Mount Fitz Roy Located?

The Mount Fitz Roy hike is located directly by the small town of El Chalten, in Argentina’s famous Patagonia region.

El Chalten has comfy hotels and restaurants for tourists, but it’s a very small town, so you can easily reach the starting point for this hike from any part of town.  

How To Get To El Chalten

There’s no airport in El Chalten, so the closest airport for this hike is the small international one in El Calafate (FTE), which has direct flights from Buenos Aires, Cordoba, Ushuaia, and other places.

The flight from Buenos Aires to El Calafate takes about 3 hours and it’s offered by multiple airlines, with pretty reasonable prices. There are two airports in Buenos Aires (AEP or EZE) and you can use either of them to fly here. You can shop for flights to Argentina on Skyscanner.

Once you arrive in El Calafate, it’s a 3 hour drive to El Chalten. You can get there with a bus, private shuttle, or rental car . The bus service is offered by multiple companies with regular departures.

If you’re short on time, there are also day tours from El Calafate to Laguna De Los Tres (more on that below).

Mount Fitz Roy Patagonia — one of the best hikes in Argentina!

Best Fitz Roy Patagonia Tours

If you’re on a tight schedule and want to visit Patagonia without much advance planning, GetYourGuide has day tours for El Chalten and El Calafate, including some of the best hikes like Laguna De Los Tres!

They have high-rated Fitz Roy day tours that include hotel pickup and drop-off, plus transportation from El Calafate to El Chalten, and optional lunch. A tour like this is not required for the hike, but it can still be a good option if you want to simplify things. They also have day tours to Perito Moreno glacier and other top sights in Patagonia.

We’ve used GetYourGuide for lots of tours and activities around the world, and they’re great. Highly recommended!

Book Now: Laguna De Los Tres From El Calafate

Laguna De Los Tres Hike: What To Expect

The hike to Laguna De Los Tres is an out and back trail that is mostly flat except for a few kilometers of uphill trekking at the start, and then again at the end of the trail.

This is a very popular hike, and it’s usually done as a day hike, but there are also campgrounds along the trail if you want to stay longer and combine it into a loop hike with the nearby Laguna Torre.

The sections below will explain each part of the Fitz Roy hike and what to expect!  

• Starting The Hike From El Chalten

When you first start the Fitz Roy hike, it’s uphill right away. In fact, the first few kilometers have a big chunk of the total elevation gain of the whole trail.

Along the way, you’ll pass some downed trees that make a nice place to sit and rest a minute, and there are kilometer markers to let you know how far you’ve gone on the trail.

For this first part of the hike you’ll mostly be walking through a forest, but there are occasional clearings with great views of El Chalten town and other scenery.

Peeking the valley at Las Vueltas viewpoint

• Las Vueltas River Viewpoint

After hiking about 1 kilometer from El Chalten, you’ll exit the trees and pass a nice little viewpoint of the Las Vueltas river (pictured above).

Here, you’ll get your first great sights of the hike, with the river winding through the valley below, and mountains on all sides.

The Patagonian wind is usually crazy here, so you won’t want to stay very long. But it’s still a great spot to take some quick photos.

Trail distance marker — 1 of 10 kilometers done!

• Laguna Capri

After hiking about 3.3 kilometers, there’s a fork in the path where you can choose to go to either a lake (Laguna Capri) or the Fitz Roy viewpoint.

I would recommend doing the viewpoint on your way up and the lake on your way down. There is also a campground at Laguna Capri if you plan to stay longer.  

• Mirador Del Fitz Roy Viewpoint

After hiking about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) from El Chalten, you’ll arrive at the ‘Mirador Del Fitz Roy’ viewpoint, which has some of the most spectacular views of the entire hike.

On a clear day, you have a front row seat to see Mount Fitz Roy and the jagged peaks of Patagonia. Even though the mountains are still far away, they feel so close here! There’s a handy sign at the viewpoint labeling all of the mountain peaks for you.

It really is one of the most stunning sights in the world. The only difference here is that you can’t see the lake of Laguna De Los Tres. That comes later.

This Fitz Roy viewpoint is perfect if you’re wanting a shorter hike with great views!

On a cloudy day, you may not see much at the viewpoint, but I’d encourage you to wait for the clouds to clear, or else come back later and try again.

Because of Patagonia’s always changing weather, I had to re-visit the spot a couple of times before I finally got to see the mountains revealed. All the effort was worth it!

This viewpoint is popular with day hikers, but there’s plenty of space to spread out and take photos. It’s a good spot to break into snacks and drinks, and there’s also a vault toilet in the forest near the clearing.

You can reach the Mirador Del Fitz Roy viewpoint in about 1.5 hours of hiking from El Chalten. All in all, it’s perfect if you want to see great scenery on a shorter and easier hike than going all the way to Laguna De Los Tres!

The majestic Mount Fitz Roy Patagonia

• Fitz Roy Secret Waterfall

After hiking about 5.3 kilometers from El Chalten, there’s a short spur trail where you can go see a secret waterfall. The location is marked with a small icon on Google Maps and AllTrails .

This is a nice little waterfall with Mount Fitz Roy in the background, and you only have to walk about 150 meters from the main trail to see it! There’s really no danger of getting lost.

Even at the end of summer, the waterfall is still active, and it’s bigger in person than it looks in pictures. It’s a great addition to your trek if you have a bit of extra time and want to take some more photos of Patagonia.

The Fitz Roy secret waterfall

• Fitz Roy Valley To Poincenot

For most of the rest of the Fitz Roy trek, you’ll be walking through a flat valley trail with little to no elevation gain or obstacles.

This is the easiest section of the hike, and it’s one of the most enjoyable parts in my opinion, because the path is almost completely flat, so you can just enjoy the scenery of Patagonia without working up a sweat.

Along the way, you’ll get to see ponds, marshes, meadows, and streams running through the valley, with the ever present Mount Fitz Roy looming in front of you the whole time.

Reflections in a pond

The photo ops here are endless. If you do the hike in autumn, you can see lots of fall leaf colors, but especially red and orange.

You’ll also notice another glacier approaching in the distance. That’s Piedras Blancas, and there’s a spur trail to see it up close if you have time.

Going to the Piedras Blancas glacier viewpoint adds about 2 kilometers in each direction and it’s relatively flat as well.

Fall colors with the Piedras Blancas glacier in the distance

Crossing a marsh

• Climbing To Laguna De Los Tres

Now that you’ve crossed the valley, it’s time for the hardest part of the Fitz Roy hike — the climb to Laguna De Los Tres!

This part involves trekking and scrambling up a steep slope with loose rocks and gravel for the last 2 kilometers (1.2 miles). It’s a big workout, with more than 450 meters of elevation gain.

A sign by the hill warns ‘good physical condition required’ for this section, and I’d say that’s about right. Watch for wet and slippery rocks on the way up.

There are a couple of false summits along the way, and this last part of the hike can take 1.5 hours, even for fit hikers. The wind is often crazy and relentless, so that adds to the challenge.

You can stop for breaks as needed, and there will be plenty of other hikers to give you encouragement, so just keep moving and you’ll finally reach the top!

“Trail is very steep. Good physical condition required.”

Beautiful views on the way up to Laguna De Los Tres

• Laguna De Los Tres: Lake & Viewpoint

The last reward of this hike is the spectacular blue lake of Laguna De Los Tres. It’s amazing! The name means ‘Lake of the Three’ in Spanish, and it comes from the three peaks surrounding the lake: Fitz Roy, Poincenot, and Saint-Exupery.

You can admire the lake from above, and then hike down the hill to see the lake up close. The melting glacier water gives it a really stunning turquoise color, and there’s even a perfect boulder at the foot of the lake that you can pose on for pictures.

There are actually two lakes here, but in order to see the second one (‘Laguna Sucia’) you have to climb the small hill near the lake. Don’t miss it! From there, you can enjoy panoramic views of both blue lakes, plus a waterfall, and Fitz Roy in between. This is where the hike ends.

In case you’re wondering, only a few people have ever managed to climb the peak of Mount Fitz Roy, and it’s very difficult and dangerous. The pointy peak has an elevation of 3,405 meters (11,171 feet).

Laguna De Los Tres

Twin lakes!

The north side of the lake

Fitz Roy Hike Difficulty: How Hard Is It?

Most of the Fitz Roy hike is not very difficult. I would rate it as moderate or even easy.

For example, you can get amazing views by hiking to the Fitz Roy viewpoint, which only takes about 1.5 hours (one way) from El Chalten. To this point, there’s a moderate elevation gain of about 330 meters (1,100 feet). Most of the trail after that is flat and easy until you reach the final climb to Laguna De Los Tres.

If you go all the way to the lake (Laguna De Los Tres), then I’d rate the hike as hard. It’s still not dangerous, and you won’t be climbing with your hands, but it’s long and strenuous and the path gets pretty rough at the end, so it’s a challenge.

From El Chalten, the total one way distance is about 11 kilometers (7 miles) to Laguna De Los Tres, with plenty of elevation gain in the first and last two kilometers of the hike, but the rest of the trail is mostly flat and easy.

So in summary, Fitz Roy is a great day hike for all ages and abilities, and you don’t have to be very fit to see most of it, but the final climb to the lakes is tough, and non-hikers might have an issue with it.

The stunning peaks of Patagonia

Mount Fitz Roy Patagonia — one of the best views in the world!

What To Bring

• Layers: There is a dramatic temperature difference from the trailhead to the final lake, so bring extra layers. I had a t-shirt, sweatshirt, and light down jacket. You’ll want to start the hike without the jacket and wear it later.
• Headwear: For the lake, you’ll want a warm beanie hat that covers your ears. The wind can be crazy and absolutely freezing sometimes.
• Gloves: I wore fingerless gloves so I could work my camera while still staying reasonably warm.
• Footwear: Hiking shoes with good grip are ideal for the Laguna De Los Tres hike. You’ll be walking on slippery rocks and steep inclines or declines at times.
• Poncho: The weather in Patagonia is very unpredictable, so you’ll definitely want to bring a rain jacket just in case. I encountered at least a little bit of rain on every hike I did in Patagonia, even on sunny days!
• Trekking Poles: I didn’t use poles for this hike, but a lot of people say they’re helpful for stability and they make it easier on your knees when you’re coming back down from Laguna De Los Tres.
• Water: Bring plenty of water! The main places you’ll need it are the first and last few kilometers of the hike. There’s drinkable stream water on this hike, so you can carry less water if you make use of that. If you want to be extra careful, you can also bring a LifeStraw . They’re very lightweight and make the water even safer to drink.
• Snacks: I was very glad to have some of my snack bars and beef jerky I had brought from the U.S. You can also bring snacks from El Chalten in a pinch.
• Headlight: This is a long hike, and a light may be required if you start early or late in the day.
• Powerbank: If you plan to use your phone for taking pictures or as a flashlight, then you may want to bring a small power bank. I like Anker , they’re tough and high quality.
• Camera: This hike is full of wonderful photo ops! Any camera and lens will do great. Fitz Roy is so big you won’t need a zoom lens to capture it in photos even from far away, although a wide angle lens can be nice once you get up-close at the last lake.

A quiet forest

Best Time To Visit Patagonia

The best time to visit Argentina and do this hike is during the spring, summer, or fall. The summer months run from December to February, and these months have some of the longest days and best hiking weather, but they’re also more popular and expensive.

The shoulder months of March, April, and November can also be great, although the temperatures may be a bit cooler. All of the pictures in this travel guide were taken in mid-March, which seemed just about perfect to me. There was even some nice fall foliage at that time, although it wasn’t quite at its peak yet.

The best time of day to start this hike is in the morning (anywhere from 6 to 9 AM) if you want to beat the crowds or see the sunrise colors reflecting on the mountain peaks. Later in the day there will be a lot more hikers, so you might have traffic jams on narrow paths like the final climb up to Laguna De Los Tres.

The weather in Patagonia is completely unpredictable, so don’t worry too much about forecasts. I saw ‘sunny’ days where the mountain peaks were completely covered by clouds, and ‘rainy’ days where the mountains were completely clear for most of the day. My Fitz Roy pictures on this page were taken on a ‘rainy’ day according to multiple weather forecasts!

Fitz Roy looks epic even in the clouds

Other Tips For The Fitz Roy Hike

• Wildlife: You can see condors, foxes, hares, guanacos, and Andean deer. There are also pumas in Patagonia, including some in the Fitz Roy area, but these big cats are more rare to see. Remember to store your food safely and out of reach at the campgrounds, or you may get visited by a puma.
• Bugs: I never saw any bugs on the Fitz Roy trek, but others have mentioned biting flies in the summer, so you may want to bring bug spray just in case. Thankfully there aren’t mosquitoes in Patagonia.
• Water: There is potable fresh glacier water at many points in the hike. The best and safest drinking water to take is from the river Rio Blanco, which you’ll pass right after the Poincenot campground. You can also use a LifeStraw for drinking if you want to be extra careful.
• Toilets: There’s no toilet at the trailhead. However, there’s a vault toilet at the Mirador (Fitz Roy viewpoint), and another one at each of the campgrounds on the trail. Make sure you take care of business before the final climb to Laguna De Los Tres, because there are lots of people at the lake and it’s a wide open space with nowhere to pee.
• Cell Service: There’s no cell service/phone reception after you leave El Chalten town, except for a little bit near the Vueltas river viewpoint. Aside from that, you won’t have any reception on the trail or at the lake (Laguna De Los Tres).
• Drones: Argentina doesn’t allow drones on this hike since it’s part of the national park.
• Entrance Fee: Free! Even though this hike is part of the Los Glaciares National Park, they don’t charge any entrance fee here, unlike the Perito Moreno glacier in El Calafate. You don’t need any guide or permit either.
• Campgrounds: There are free campgrounds at Laguna Capri (near the Fitz Roy viewpoint) and also at Poincenot later in the hike.

Another pond on the way to Laguna De Los Tres

Other Tips For El Chalten Town

• Hotels: There are a bunch of comfortable hotels and hostels in El Chalten town if you plan to stay longer. Check out Kaiken Hostel for a budget option, Fitz Roy Hosteria for midrange, and Destino Sur Hotel for high end.
• Restaurants: The town has plenty of restaurants and great food. A nice breakfast option is La Esquina , and for dinner check out La Cerveceria or La Vineria Grill & Pasta .
• Credit Cards: Many places in town accept credit cards now, but some are still cash only. Bring enough cash just in case. The ATMs in town are not very reliable.
• Money Changers: You can find money changers (‘cambio’) in El Chalten, although they sometimes run out of cash. It’s best to change your cash in El Calafate or Buenos Aires if you can.
• WiFi: The hotels in El Chalten have slow WiFi or none at all, but the situation is improving. Some of the cafes have fast WiFi if you look around. The best WiFi I found was at La Esquina .
• Cell Service: With T-Mobile roaming, I had cell service/phone reception from Claro in El Chalten town, but it wasn’t the greatest. The Argentine government is working on improving this soon.
• Supplies: There are plenty of grocery and convenience stores in El Chalten, as well as shops where you can buy or rent tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, jackets, and all kinds of other equipment for camping and hiking. I’m sure it’s more pricey than bringing your own gear, though, so do that if you can.
• Safety: Argentina is a pretty safe country overall, and the Patagonia region is especially safe. Generally you don’t have to worry about crime here. I’ve started the Fitz Roy hike alone in the dark with no worries. By morning, there are always plenty of people on the trail. Everyone brings a camera to El Chalten too, so you won’t stand out for that. Just practice normal precautions. Don’t leave cash in your room, or valuables in your car.

The unforgettable Laguna De Los Tres

Fitz Roy Trailhead Location: How To Get There

The main Fitz Roy trailhead is located at the end of Avenida San Martin (the main road in El Chalten), at the north end of town.

The entrance to the trail is basically right next to town, and El Chalten is small enough you can easily walk to the starting point of the hike from anywhere in town in about 15 minutes or less.

You can use this GPS location to route you directly to the trailhead entrance. It’s marked in Spanish on Google Maps as ‘Sendero al Fitz Roy.’

Fitz Roy trailhead entrance and starting point

El Chalten Trailhead Conditions

The Fitz Roy trailhead has a big gravel parking lot with enough space for plenty of cars. I never saw it fill up, even though this is a very popular hike that attracts day trippers and backpackers from El Calafate and even Torres Del Paine in Chile.

When you arrive at the trailhead there’s a big trash disposal bin, a faucet with potable drinking water, and an information sign telling about the hike details, trail map, elevation profile, and Argentine national park rules.

Strangely there’s no toilet at the Fitz Roy trailhead, so you’ll want to take care of business before you get there, otherwise you can find vault toilets later in the hike.

Information and map at the trailhead for Laguna De Los Tres

Alternative Trailhead: El Pilar

For an alternative hike to Fitz Roy, you can start from El Pilar , which is north of El Chalten town.

The main advantage of this route is that it’s slightly easier and has less elevation gain, and you’ll be hiking directly past the Piedras Blancas glacier, so you get nice views of another glacier without any extra hiking. Plus, it’s a point-to-point hike like this, so there’s more variety in the scenery compared to doing it as an out-and-back.

The main disadvantage of hiking from El Pilar is that it starts outside of town, so you have to do a bit of extra traveling — the drive is 40 minutes, to be exact, and Chalten Travel has a bus that goes there. You also won’t get to see Mount Fitz Roy quite as often on this route, so if that’s your main goal then you might want to go from the normal trailhead at El Chalten.

However, for veteran hikers who have already done the trek to Laguna De Los Tres from the normal trailhead, starting from El Pilar instead can be a great way to shake things up a bit!

Walking back to El Chalten town

Is The Fitz Roy Hike Worth It?

Yes, this hike is absolutely worth the effort!

Fitz Roy is one of the most impressive mountains I’ve ever seen. The lake is wonderful too. Even if you don’t have enough energy to go all the way to Laguna De Los Tres, you can still enjoy some amazing sights at the earlier viewpoints.

It’s a bucket list trek for sure, and easily one of the best day hikes anywhere in South America. On a clear day, I’d even say it’s one of the very best hikes in the world.

Mount Fitz Roy coming out of the clouds — Patagonia at its best!

More Patagonia Travel Tips

Thanks for looking! I hope you enjoyed this guide for Mount Fitz Roy and the Laguna De Los Tres hike in Patagonia, Argentina.

Don’t forget to check out my travel blog post about the Perito Moreno glacier , which is another stunning sight in Patagonia near the town of El Calafate!

Happy travels!

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Travel, Hiking, Food

Mt. Fitz Roy Hiking Guide: The Most Beautiful Hike in Patagonia

Mount Fitz Roy hike is one of the most beautiful hikes in Patagonia, Argentina. Its beauty rivals the Las Torres hike in Torres del Paine. This Fitz Roy hiking guide tells you everything you need to know about this hiking trail in Los Glaciares National Park.

You may not recognize Mt. Fitz Roy by its name, but you must have heard of the clothing brand Patagonia. The Patagonia logo is actually an outline of the Fitz Roy mountain in Patagonia, Argentina.

Mt. Fitz Roy is the tallest mountain in the Argentine Patagonia, boarding Chile and Argentina near the town of El Chalten and it’s one of the most technically difficult for mountaineering.

However the Fitz Roy day hike in Patagonia is do-able for moderately fit person (or even non-fit individuals as long as they take it slow). What I like the most about the Fitz Roy hike is that it’s super beautiful along the way, making it one of the most beautiful hikes in Patagonia.

This blog contains occasional affiliate links, where I receive a small commission on sales of the products/hotels that are linked at no additional cost to you. In addition, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . The commission I receive helps me to pay for the cost of running and maintaining this blog. Thank you for supporting my blog.

Overview of Patagonia

As mentioned in my previous post of  Day Hike to Mirador Last Torres in Torres del Paine, Patagonia is a region that spans over both Chile and Argentina in the southern tip of the South America continent.

The Chilean part is famous for the Torres del Paine National Park (the W Trek or O Trek) whereas Patagonia Argentina is famous for hiking near El Chalten as well as Glacier Perito Moreno near El Calafate in the Los Glaciares National Park (more on that in a later post).

There are several day hikes (and multi-day trek) you can do in Patagonia Argentina but since we didn’t have the luxury to spend weeks and weeks there, we decided to do some of the most famous day hikes near El Chalten such as the Cerro Torre hike and the Mt. Fitz Roy (Laguna de Los Tres) hike.

How To Get To El Chalten

The Fitz Roy (Laguna de Los Tres) hike is located in the Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina and El Chalten is a small town located in the middle of this national park. Laguna de Los Tres hike and the Laguna Cerro hike (separate post on that) are the best and most beautiful hikes in El Chalten.

Travel to El Chalten By Bus

El Chalten is pretty much in the middle of nowhere, the easiest way to get to El Chalten is to take a bus. There are several different bus routes to El Chalten but the most popular one would be from the town of El Calafate , located 3 hours away. Why is El Calafate important? It’s a much bigger town and it has an airport (see below).

We took a double decker bus with the company Chaltentravel first thing in the morning. Make sure to book your tickets online and book your Chaltentravel bus tickets as early as possible so you can get the first row on top of the double decker bus. The ticket will also give you your assigned seats and we sat right in the front on the second level so we had an amazing view of the drive on Ruta 40 .

We visited the Chaltentravel booking office in El Calafate 2 days before and was able to ask them to pick us up from our hotel. If they don’t pick you up from your hotel, take a taxi to the El Calafate bus terminal to catch this bus.

Travel to El Chalten By Plane

If El Chalten is your first stop on your Patagonia adventure, you can fly into El Calafate in Argentina. There is no airport in El Chalten since the town is extremely small. There are several direct daily flights from Buenos Aires to El Calafate.

The airlines that fly between Buenos Aires to El Calafate are LATAM Airlines and Aerolineas Argentinas .  Based on what I saw at the airport, there are way more flights on Aerolineas Argentinas between Buenos Aires and El Calafate than LATAM Airlines. So keep this in mind when you book your flight between Buenoes Aires and El Calafate.

After you land in El Calafate, you will need to catch the bus from Chaltentravel to El Chalten, 3 hours away.

Travel to El Chalten By Car

Some people rent a car from El Calafate to travel to El Chalten. Renting a car in Patagonia is great if you prefer a flexible schedule but it’s not very cheap to do so.

The one benefit of renting a car in Patagonia is that the route from El Calafate to El Chalten is extremely beautiful and famous ( Ruta 40 ). What makes Ruta 40 is that when you start approaching El Chalten (~40 min away), you will see the outline of Mt. Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre. It’s a sight not to be missed and driving your own car on Ruta 40 allows you to stop at view points for an instagrammable shot of Mt. Fitz Roy.

Travel to El Chalten By Bike

If you are a Patagonia backpacker on a strict budget, you can bike from El Calafate to El Chalten on Ruta 40. We actually saw some people do that on bicycles/motorcycles. I’m not sure how long it takes though.

How to get to the Fitz Roy Hike Trail Head

Once you are in El Chalten, the Fitz Roy hike  trail head  is at the end of Avenida San Martín (the main road in El Chalten), at the northern end of the town. There is a car park at the Fitz Roy hike trail head so you can park your vehicle there. If you are staying in El Chalten, it’s an easy walk to the Fitz Roy hike trail head since the town is not that big.

Where To Stay For the Fitz Roy (Laguna de Los Tres) Hike

There are generally two options for accommodation for the Fitz Roy hike: camping or hostels and hotels.

Camping : There are many different camp sites in Patagonia Argentina near El Chalten. You have to bring your own tent and cooking supplies.

There are 2 camp sites along the hike to Laguna de Los Tres: Campamento Poincenot and Campamento Laguna Capri (by the lake). Camping in Patagonia is an extremely good choice for backpackers.

We even saw some families camp near Laguna Capri  (one view point during the Fitz Roy hike). You can also drink the water from lakes/streams since there is no pollution in Patagonia. There are portable toilets at camp sites in Patagonia and you cannot use fire to cook your food.

Hostels, Apartments & Hotels : Most people who do day treks to the surrounding mountains find acommodation in the town of El Chalten. El Chalten is an extremely small town but there are a lot of apartments, hotels and hostels in El Chalten.

I personally stayed at Don Los Cerros Boutique Hotel & Spa which was really nice and convenient. The front desk had a weather forecast screen up so you can see the chance of rain, cloud coverage, etc before your Fitz Roy hike.

There are also several nice restaurants and bars in El Chalten. My favorite restaurant in El Chalten is La Tapera . Food was amazing and service was good; we actually ate there both nights when we were in El Chalten.

Details of the Fitz Roy Day Hike:

Length : 20.4km (12.7 miles) round trip, 8-9 hours

Difficulty : Difficult because it’s long and a lot of uphills

Laguna de Los Tres Hike Overview

The Fitz Roy day hike is a long and strenuous hike with an amazing view along the way and at the end, making it the most beautiful hike in Patagonia.

The Fitz Roy day hike starts off steep but levels out until the last hour where you gain 400m of elevation.

The best part of the Fitz Roy day hike is that you get amazing view for most parts of the hike and the view at the end is unparalleled. I literally could not believe nature could create something so beautiful and grand. I couldn’t help but compare the Fitz Roy view to the view of Los Torres in Torres del Paine, and I have to say I actually find the view of Mt. Fitz Roy more impressive!

Make sure to bring plenty of water and food and your hiking poles (for the last part) and a wide angle lens for your shots on the Fitz Roy day hike. I had an iphone with me and it was not wide enough to capture the entire Fitz Roy mountain and the lake below it horizontally.

Fitz Roy Hike Kilometer 0-3: 80% Uphill

The start of the Fitz Roy day hike was completely an uphill battle. The start was quite steep but it becomes less steep (but still uphill) after the first km. But you do come across nice views of the valley. There is also a marker at the end of each kilometer so you know your progress.

After about 2.5 kilometer on the hike it eventually starts to flatten out.

Fitz Roy Hike Kilometer 3-5: Flat In The Woods

You will come across a view point to see the Fitz Roy the first time on this hike around Kilometer 3. There is a sign that interprets the whole landscape right in front of you.

On a clear day, you can see the Fitz Roy mountain so clearly even though it looks so far away. At that exact spot, I knew that this was going to be the most beautiful hike in Patagonia. There is a porta potty at the view point so be sure to use it because you won’t get to see another one for a while.

After that you continue to hike in the woods and you will come across the sign below where there is a split in the trail. It really doesn’t matter which way you go because both are easy and flat and you can always take the other route coming back. At about 5km mark the 2 paths converges.

Fitz Roy Hike Kilometer 5-6: Continue In The Woods

Continue the Fitz Roy day hike in the woods covered in shades and it’s a really easy km because it’s flat with some downhill. At the end of the kilometer you will come to an open area with another spectacular view of Mt. Fitz Roy.

Fitz Roy Hike Kilometer 6-7: Flat Hike With Amazing View

For half of the Fitz Roy hike, you actually walk on very flat ground with beautiful view. Once you exit the forest, you will be hiking near all the shorter trees (uncovered) towards Fitz Roy Mountain. This is the reason why the Fitz Roy hike is my favorable hike in Patagonia; unlike the los torres hike in Torres del Paine where you don’t see the 3 granite towers until the very end.

Fitz Roy Hike Kilometer 7-8: Change of Scenery

After seemingly forever towards the Fitz Roy Mountain, you will end up in a nice flat and open path with different views.

Fitz Roy Hike Kilometer 8-9: Camping Site

You enter the woods again just when you’ve had enough of the uncovered trail with the sun blazing down on you (it was really hot and sunny when we were there with no wind).

This time you will reach the camping site Poincenot . There is a portable bathroom here so make sure to use it. It’s also a good idea to take a break here because after this it’s straight uphill for one hour with no shades.

Fitz Roy Hike Kilometer 9-10: Steep Uphill Till The End

Once you’re all rest up, leave the campsite and cross an open area before you reach the start of the most steep part of your Fitz Roy day hike.

You will start seeing warning signs everywhere on how steep and strenuous the last part of the Fitz Roy hike is and people with heart conditions are advised to take caution.

This last part of the Fitz Roy hike gains an elevation of 400m so you can imagine how steep it gets. What I hated about this part of the hike is that the gravels are loose on the ground, it’s unbelievably hard to go back downhill because you can easily slip. It also felt quite hopeless as the uphill path never seem to end. The only motivation I had at this point was to see Mt. Fitz Roy up close.

Just when you think you’ve reached the top of the hill, you will come across another small hill with an open steep area full of small pebbles (very slippery). This is the last steep part of the Fitz Roy hike before you are greeted with the most amazing view (I personally think it’s even more spectacular than Torres del Paine because Mt. Fitz Roy is just SO big).

The Monte Fitz Roy hike, although very long, is one of my favorite hikes in Patagonia. Partially because we had beautiful weather and partially because of the view along the Fitz Roy hike was amazing making it the most beautiful hike in Patagonia. Comparing it to Mirador Las Torres in Torres del Paine, I would rank this hike much higher in terms of enjoyableness. The view of both places are amazing though!

If you only have time for 1 hike near El Chalten you should do the Fitz Roy hike . If you have more time in El Chalten, then consider doing the Cerro Torre hike, which is much easier and shorter than the Fitz Roy hike but still has an amazing view.

Patagonia Frequently Asked Questions Answered

Where is Patagonia?  Patagonia is located in South America. Patagonia is a region in the southern part of Chile and Argentina. It’s about a 3 hour flight from Chile or Buenos Aires.

Patagonia Chile is known for Torres del Paine and Patagonia Argentina is known for the Perito Moreno Glacier as well as hiking near El Chalten (Mt Fitz Roy & Cerro Torre, etc)

When is the best time to travel to Patagonia? The best time to visit Patagonia is December to March (summer in the Southern Hemisphere).

The weather is warmer and trails are dry. It’s much windier in the summer time in Patagonia than the winter time however. Patagonia weather in November is probably the windiest time of the year and it can rain/snow all in the same day.

How Much Time Do I need For Patagonia?  It really depends on how much time you have and what you want to see in Patagonia. Patagonia is a big region covering both Chile and Argentina.

In Patagonia Chile alone you can spend as little as 3 days and as much as weeks and the same for Patagonia Argentina. My 10 day Patagonia itinerary covers some of the highlights of Patagonia but you can always stay for much longer to see everything else. If you plan to do the W trek in Torres del Paine, then you will need a minimum of 4-5 days in Patagonia Chile.

Can I go to Patagonia in the winter (June – August?) You can definitely visit Patagonia in the winter in southern hemisphere, however, you will need a guide to do the hikes because snow will have covered the hiking trails. The snow will also make it harder to hike to many places so plan accordingly.

What’s the weather like in Patagonia? Weather in Patagonia is extremely unpredictable. Due to its location, it can be extremely windy especially in early summer (end of November/early December) and the temperature is high 70 and low 40s.

To give you an example, when I went to Patagonia the end of November, I had to wear 1 sweat shirt and 1 sports jacket during the hike. Of course it gets warm during the hikes in Patagonia but you should have enough layers so you won’t be cold. You may also experience all four seasons in one day (sun, rain, hail, snow, wind, etc.

The wind speed in Patagonia can be as much as 80 mile per hour, it is not safe to hike during those times. The catamaran also gets shut down when it’s that windy. If the windy speed is 30-40mph you can still try to hike, but use caution as the gusts can be quite sudden and powerful and can knock you down to the ground.

What is a good website for Patagonia Weather Forecast?  We used mountain-forecast.com for all the forecast and it was great. El Chalten :   https://www.mountain-forecast.com/peaks/Cerro-Fitzroy/forecasts/500 The website tells you wind speed by the hour so you can see if you should go hike on a certain day.

What to see in Patagonia without hiking? Is Patagonia worth going without hiking?  You don’t need to hike to enjoy the beauty of Patagonia and I highly recommend adding some non-hiking days to your Patagonia itinerary.

There are plenty of activities you can do in Patagonia without hiking. In Torres del Paine you can rent a car and drive around the park and walk to see waterfalls and Lago Gray.

In El Calafate Argentina, you can take a boat to get close to the Perito Moreno Glacier to go to the observation deck to see the glacier up close.

Many luxury hotels in Patagonia also offer full day tours to certain view points or to places where you can just walk and enjoy the scenery with no hiking required.

How much money should I budget for Patagonia? Patagonia can be done cheaply or extremely expensively, depending on your budget and travel style.

If you want to do a budget travel trip to Patagonia then plan to camp and cook your own food, It would be $5-$20 a night for Patagonia budget trips; private rooms in guest houses can be between $20-$60 and hotels can range from $200 – $500 a night.

Similarly if you want to take buses around, it will be pretty cheap but renting a car can cost about 100 USD a day or taking a private tour can cost between $150 – $200 a person a day.

Is Patagonia Safe for Solo Travel? Since Patagonia is so remote, people are mostly locals who work in the tourism industry or tourists/backpackers. I felt pretty safe in Patagonia so if you don’t mind hiking alone, then you can totally solo trip it.

The most danger you will experience is probably getting lost or fall although the trails are very well marked so I’m not sure how anyone can get lost. Hikers on the trail are also very friendly and encouraging, so it’s pretty nice for solo travel. There are also many refugios (hostels) on the hiking trails in Patagonia so you can always make new friends hiking Patagonia.

How to get to Patagonia? There are 2 airports in Patagonia you can fly into. If you want to visit Patagonia Chile first, then fly through Santiago to Punta Arenas. If you want to visit Patagonia Argentina first, then fly through Buenos Aires to El Calafate.

How to get around Patagonia? There are bus companies that have affordable bus rides among different popular towns such as Puerto Natales to Torres del Paine in Chile and buses from El Calafate to El Chalen in Argentina (among other routes, read my post below). To see how to get to Torres del Paine, read my post here . To get from El Calafate to El Chalten, read this post .

What Camera lens should I bring to Patagonia? I highly recommend bringing both zoom lens as well as a wide angle lens to Patagonia.

I didn’t bring a wide angle lens and it was difficult to take photos at Mirador Las Torres (Torres del Paine) and the Fitz Roy (Argentina) because the mountains were so big. Iphones are generally pretty wide angle but if you plan to use a camera with interchangeable lens, then I highly recommend a ultra wide angle lens for your Patagonia trip.

Can I use credit cards in Patagonia? Many restaurants and hotels in Patagonia accept credit cards.

However, I would recommend getting cash from ATMs/Cash Machines at the airports if possible because not all places accept cash. There is no ATM in Torres del Paine or El Chalten, so plan accordingly.

Can I use drones in Patagonia? From what I read, Chile requires a permit to fly drones and the process is quite long. Also, it may not be a good idea to fly a drone in Patagonia since it’s very windy and the wind speed is between 20mph to 80mph depending on the season and the day. Your drone will probably crash in such turbulent weather.

In Patagonia Argentina there are specific signs saying no drones are allowed, so please don’t be a jerk and disturb the peace and quietness for other hikers.   Nobody wants to have a drone in their photo when they’ve hiked hours for the view!

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World’s Best Hikes: Fitz Roy Trek, Patagonia, Argentina

By Peter Potterfield

Today's Featured Hike: El Chaltén to Laguna Torre to Poincenot Camp to Laguna Eléctrico

Round-Trip: 36 miles, 4 to 7 days

When to Go: February to March to avoid the crowds of midsummer and enjoy stable fall weather when the infamous Patagonian winds abate

Hike among Argentina’s fabled Fitz Roy Massif, the iconic ridge where the peaks of Poincenot, St. Exupery, and 11,073-foot Fitz Roy itself rise out of the steppes of Patagonia like a vision. This grand tour gives you three views of Fitz at sunrise, with Cerro Torre and Marconi Pass thrown in for good measure. This ramble through Delaware-size Los Glaciares National Park takes you from gnarled, spooky beech forests and open plains to glaciers, roaring waterfalls, and granite monoliths afire with orange dawn light.

Insider Tip: From Camp Poincenot, hike up in the predawn hours to Laguna de los Tres by headlamp for the full impact of sunrise on the Fitz Roy Massif.

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Photograph by Reiner Harscher, laif/Redux

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Argentina , Hiking , Patagonia

Patagonia’s mount fitz roy hike: all you need to know.

The Mount Fitz Roy hike (Laguna de Los Tres) is without a doubt one of the best hikes in Patagonia (and arguably South America). This incredible hike takes you right to the base of the famous Mount Fitz Roy, the face of Patagonia.

Located in Los Glaciares National Park, Mount Fitz Roy towers over the small mountain town of El Chalten . Each year, thousands of visitors head to the area with the hope of completing the iconic hike and getting up close and personal with Fitz Roy itself.

Visiting this epic destination and hiking to Laguna de Los Tres had been at the top of my bucket list for years. In 2024, I embarked on a solo hiking trip to Patagonia and finally got the chance to see Mount Fitz Roy in all its glory.

I’ve done some amazing hikes all around the world , but there is something very special about Fitz Roy/Laguna de Los Tres. The scenery is beyond spectacular and it’s a hike I will remember forever.

In this post, I’ve shared all you need to know about hiking the Mount Fitz Roy / Laguna de Los Tres hike, one of the best hikes in El Chalten .

Related read: my full packing list for Patagonia, including all the hiking essentials

While a popular hike, it’s not something to be taken lightly. The hike is 14 miles (22.5 km) in length and there are a couple of tough sections. It’s certainly not a “roll out of bed and hope for the best” type of hike. It requires some preparation and organisation. Having said that, the hike is doable for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness.

Here’s all you need to know about the Mount Fitz Roy day hike.  

Related read: El Chalten is the hiking capital of Argentina and there are several fantastic hikes in the area

Table of Contents

Overview of the Mount Fitz Roy hike

The Mount Fitz Roy hike (also known as Laguna de Los Tres) is in Los Glaciares National Park near the town of El Chalten. It’s one of the best hikes in Argentina and all of Patagonia.

There are various routes you can take to complete the hike, but if you’re following the popular out-and-back route, here are the stats:

Length: 14 miles /22.5 km (this will increase if you take any of the detours) Elevation gain: 1066 m / 3500 ft (400ft is in the last km) Terrain: mainly dirt until the last km which involves rocks and scree Difficulty: difficult due to the length, but not overly technical Time to complete : 7-9 hours round trip

To clear up any confusion, both Laguna de Los Tres and Fitz Roy are the same hike. Put simply, the hike takes you to Laguna de Los Tres for incredible views of Fitz Roy.

For the sake of this article, I’ll use both Fitz Roy and Laguna de Los Tres.

Important note : This hike does not involve climbing Fitz Roy itself. It takes you to the base of the incredible mountain.

Best time of year to hike to Fitz Roy

The summer months are the best time to hike to Fitz Roy / Laguna de Los Tres. While there can be strong winds, the weather is often favourable for hiking.

The peak season in El Chalten is between November and March and this is when the trails are the busiest. It’s sometimes possible to hike to Laguna de Los Tres in the shoulder season months of October and April, but there can be snow and ice on the trail.

Unless you’re an experienced hiker with the correct equipment, hiking to Laguna de Los Tres is normally not possible in the winter. The trail is often covered in deep snow and can be prone to avalanches. If you are visiting El Chalten in the winter, I’d suggest speaking to a local guide about doing the hike. If you’re very lucky, the hike may still be accessible.

Breakdown of the Mount Fitz Roy hike

Section 1: the climb up.

The trailhead for Laguna de Los Tres is at the north end of Avenida San Martin. The hike begins with a steep climb through the trees, which takes an hour or so to complete. It’s a steep and consistent climb with plenty of viewpoints to rest.

This certainly isn’t the most exciting part of the hike, but you’re getting a nice chunk of the elevation out of the way.

Section 2: the views begin

After an hour or so, the trail will begin to flatten out and you’ll be rewarded with views of Rio de Las Vueltas and the valley.

This next section of the trail remains relatively flat as it takes you through a forest and across a meadow. You’ll also catch your first glimpses of Cerro Fitz Roy and the Piedras Blancas Glacier (on a clear day, at least!).

Tip : this is where I saw a Condor flying above, so keep an eye out.

At one point, you’ll have the option to continue to Laguna de Los Tres or go to Laguna Capri. While both trails ultimately take you to the same place, I’d suggest sticking to the main trail and enjoying Laguna Capri on the way back. It’s not uncommon for Fitz Roy to cloud over as the day goes on so it’s a good idea to get there as early as you can.

Once you reach the Poincenot Campsite, you’re only about 1km away from Laguna de Los Tres. However, this is the steepest and most challenging part of the trail with 400 metres of elevation gain.

It took me about 2 ½ hours to reach the Poincenot campsite and another hour from there to Laguna de Los Tres.

Just after the Poincenot Campsite is an area with benches. It’s a good idea to take a break, eat a snack, and apply SPF before tackling the final part of the hike to Fitz Roy. There is also a glacial river here where you can refill your water.

Section 3: the final push

Now, the real work begins. The trail here gains 400 metres of elevation over 1km. It’s steep, rocky, and exposed, with lots of loose rocks and gravel.

Take your time on this section. It’s very steep and challenging. You may benefit from hiking poles.

Section 4: the spectacular finish

As you keep pushing up the hill, the spectacular towers of Mount Fitz Roy will start to tease you as they come into view.

After a final slog up a sketchy scree field, Laguna de Los Tres and Mount Fitz Roy will appear in all their glory.  

Honestly, this is without a doubt one of the most breathtaking views I have ever experienced. The scenery is beyond anything imaginable. It’s so beautiful.

You can easily spend an hour at the base of Mount Fitz Roy. You might not have the energy, but I highly recommend walking down to Laguna de Los Tres for a closer view. It also tends to be a little more sheltered from the wind there.

Section 5: the return

All good things must come to an end. After spending some time at the lake, it will be time to return to El Chalten.

The first part of the hike down is the most challenging. It took me almost as long to hike up the final kilometre as it did down. The rocks are very loose, so you may find yourself slipping and sliding a little. Take your time and use hiking poles if you need to.

Once you reach the Poincenot Campsite, there is the option to take a detour to see the Piedras Blancas Glacier. If it’s a clear day, I highly recommend doing so. It’s about an extra 40 minutes of walking (out and back), but it’s completely flat. The views from the viewpoint are marvellous.

Back on the main trail, there are two routes that will take you back to El Chalten: the way you came or via Laguna Capri. If you have the energy, I suggest going via Laguna Capri. It doesn’t add too much in length, and the views of Fitz Roy are beautiful. It was almost empty when I was there, and it was a very serene experience.

After this, continue the walk back to El Chalten. The trailhead is a short walk from most of the accommodations and restaurants.

It took me four hours to return to El Chalten from the base of Fitz Roy. But this included a 40-minute detour to Piedras Blancas Glacier and spending some time at Laguna Capri.

Related read: check out my guide to El Chalten which includes where to eat and drink

Is the Mount Fitz Roy hike difficult?

Yes, the Fitz Roy / Laguna de Los Tres hike is difficult. While there is nothing overly technical or challenging, the hike is long and exposed to the elements. It can feel a little relentless at times, especially on the final push to the summit. It’s certainly a strenuous hike.

In total, I was on the trail for nine hours (this included a couple of detours). So, it’s certainly not a hike to take lightly.

If you’re in good physical condition, you should find the hike doable. Take plenty of water, lunch, and snacks to keep you going and keep your energy levels up.

The final kilometre of the hike is certainly the hardest. It’s steep, exposed, and covered in loose rocks. This is where I saw the most people struggling and questioning their decision to do the hike.

Take your time and take as many breaks as you need. I promise you, it’s worth it!

Mount Fitz Roy hike: alternative routes

The above description outlines the main hiking route for Mount Fitz Roy. However, there are a couple of other options which I’ve touched on below.

Including Laguna Capri

As mentioned above, it’s possible to go via Laguna Capri when trekking to or from Laguna de Los Tres. It doesn’t add too much in distance and it’s a very serene spot.

In my opinion, it’s best to visit Laguna Capri on the way back down. The views on the way to Fitz Roy were some of my favourites, and if you go via Laguna Capri, you’ll miss this. It’s also common for cloud to move in as the day goes on, so getting to Laguna de Los Tres should be your priority.

On my way back down from Fitz Roy, I saw several people swimming in Laguna Capri. It’s a really lovely spot.

Mount Fitz Roy hike from El Pilar

Hiking Mount Fitz Roy from El Pilar is becoming increasingly popular, especially for those who camp and carry equipment.

The trail to Laguna de Los Tres from El Pilar is about a mile shorter and knocks off a couple of hundred feet in elevation. You have the option to hike out and back to the starting point or begin in El Pilar and end in El Chalten (the most popular).

If you opt to start in El Pilar, you’ll need to get to Hosteria El Pilar which is where the trailhead is. It’s about a 30-minute drive from El Chalten. It’s common to get a taxi there and walk back to El Chalten via Fitz Roy.

The El Pilar route brings you up towards the Poincenot campsite where the trails meet. You’ll walk past the viewpoint for the Piedras Blancas Glacier too.

Hiking from El Pilar is a great option if you don’t mind paying for the taxi. It knocks off a bit of the length and creates a loop trail, making the hike a bit more diverse. I opted not to do this as I didn’t want to pay for a taxi by myself. However, I met a group of backpackers who had shared a taxi to the trailhead for a few dollars each.

The starting point for this route is from Hosteria El Pilar.

With Laguna Torre & Laguna Madre e Hija (multi-day trek)

If you’re keen to do a multi-day trek while in El Chalten, you could combine two of the best hikes in El Chalten. This popular 3-day / 2-night hike combines Fitz Roy/Laguna de Los Tres with the famous Laguna Torre hike.

You can do the hike in either direction, but most people follow the below route:

Day 1 – hike to either the Poincenot campsite or Laguna Capri campsite.

Day 2 – hike to Mount Fitz Roy for sunrise and continue to the Laguna Torre campsite via the Laguna Madre trail (it’s well signposted).

Day 3 – hike to Laguna Torre and witness Cerro Torre at sunrise before returning to El Chalten.

It’s also possible to do this as an overnight hike in two days if you’re experienced with walking long distances.

It’s roughly 24 miles (40km) in total, depending on where you start. I highly advise downloading this trail offline using AllTrails . While it is well marked, the trail does divide into various directions at some points, and you don’t want to get lost.

Fitz Roy: sunrise and sunset

Laguna de Los Tres is a popular spot for sunrise and sunset. Depending on the time of year, it can be quite logistically difficult to do.

I worked out to catch the sunrise over Fitz Roy, I’d have to begin hiking at 2 am. As I was by myself, hiking in the dark didn’t feel sensible.

To watch the sunrise or sunset at Laguna de Los Tres, I’d suggest camping at the Poincenot or Laguna Capri campsites. This means you won’t need to hike as long in the dark and there will no doubt be others doing the same.

Where to stay nearby

The town of El Chalten is the best place to stay for hiking to Mount Fitz Roy / Laguna de Los Tres.

This small but lively mountain town is filled with a range of accommodation options including hostels and luxury hotels.

El Calafate is another popular option. Most people visit El Calafate for the nearby Perito Moreno Glacier , but it’s also possible to do a day trip to El Chalten. It’s at least a 2 ½ hour drive from El Calafate to El Chalten. However, with long daylight hours in the summer, it’s possible to also hike to Fitz Roy in a day.

Personally, I’d opt to stay in El Chalten before or after hiking to Laguna de Los Tres. It’s one of my favourite places I’ve ever been. It has a lot more to offer and much more charm than El Calafate.

El Calafate is also where the nearest airport is. If you’re in Buenos Aires , you can fly to El Calafate and get the bus from there to El Chalten.

Tip : if you’re staying in El Calafate, don’t miss a visit to La Leona Petrified Forest . This unique area of Patagonia is unlike anywhere I have ever visited.

Camping on the Mount Fitz Roy hike

There are several free campsites on the hiking trails around El Chalten. You’ll need to bring your own equipment, but you can hire tents and sleeping mats/bags in the town.

Camping on the trails is free of charge, so it’s a very popular option. The most popular campsite on the trail is the Poincenot campsite (also known as basecamp). This basic camping ground is about a 90-minute walk to the base of Fitz Roy and Laguna de Los Tres.

If you want to split the Fitz Roy hike over two days, hiking to Poincenot and staying overnight is a fantastic option. It also means you can potentially catch the famous Fitz Roy at sunrise or sunset.

The nearby Laguna Capri also has a campsite. It’s a little bit further away than Poincenot, but it’s a better option in my opinion. Laguna Capri boasts some epic views of Fitz Roy and it’s a much quieter spot. You should still be able to reach Laguna de Los Tres in a couple of hours from here.

Both campsites are very basic with pit toilets. You can fill your water using nearby glacial streams.

The campsites operate on a first come first serve basis.

Tips for hiking Mount Fitz Roy

Start early . This is one of the most popular hikes in Patagonia and arguably South America. Visitors travel from all around the world just to do this hike. As there are long daylight hours in the summer months, people don’t tend to hit the trails too early.

To avoid the worst of the crowds, I recommend starting as early as possible. I started the hike at 6 am and it didn’t feel too crowded at all. However, on the way down, there was a constant stream of people heading up.

Take a water bottle . Make sure you’re carrying plenty of water with you on the hike. It’s a long hike and if the sun is shining, it can get very hot. There is a glacial river where it is safe to refill your bottle.

Pace yourself. Even for the most experienced of hikers, this is a long hike. There’s no race to the finish so take your time, pace yourself and enjoy it.

Check the weather . The weather in Patagonia can be very unpredictable. Always check the weather before you hit the trails. If it looks like the weather is going to be extreme, don’t take any risks.

Pack layers and a waterproof. Even if the weather looks favourable, it’s a sensible idea to pack plenty of layers and a waterproof. I went through four seasons in a day when hiking to Fitz Roy. It started hot but by the top, it was windy and freezing. Go prepared and don’t forget SPF.

Related read: my hiking guide to El Chalten also includes a packing list

Choose a clear day . If you have the chance, pick a day with clear skies to do the Fitz Roy hike. While the base at Laguna de Los Tres is still beautiful in the clouds, you won’t get the same spectacular views.

Take hiking poles . The way down somehow feels even longer than the way up. Along with the loose gravel, it can also be tough on the knees. If you have benefited from hiking poles in the past, I’m sure you’ll appreciate them on this hike. It’s possible to rent hiking poles in the town of El Chalten.

FAQ for hiking Mount Fitz Roy / Laguna de Los Tres

Are there toilets on the trail? There are some pit toilets near the Poincenot campsite, but I certainly wouldn’t recommend using them. If you do need to use the bathroom on the trail, make sure you’re not near any rivers.

Is it safe to do the hike alone? Absolutely! I did the Fitz Roy hike solo with no issues at all. The trail is very busy, so you won’t be alone. if you’re a bit nervous, check out my solo hiking guide .

Does it cost money / do you need an entry permit? Unlike the nearby Torres del Paine National Park, you don’t need any permits for Laguna de Los Tres. It’s completely free.

Do you need a guide? You don’t need a guide for the hike. There is the option to hire a guide or join an organised tour , but it isn’t necessary.

Is there parking? There is a large parking lot at the trailhead for Laguna de Los Tres.

Summary: is the Mount Fitz Roy hike worth it?

Yes, yes, and yes again! The Mount Fitz Roy/Laguna de Los Tres hike is well worth it. It’s one of the best hikes I’ve done anywhere in the world .

Sure, it’s a busy hike. But I promise it’s famous for good reason. I can’t think of anywhere else in the world where you get such incredible views on a day hike.

The hike isn’t overly technical, but it is long, so it’s not the best hike for beginners. Having said that, it should be achievable for anyone who is in good shape.

I was lucky enough to do the Fitz Roy / Laguna de Los Tres hike on a clear day with perfect weather. This means I was spoiled with epic views. I heard stories of people who weren’t so lucky and didn’t see Cerro Fitz Roy as it was covered in clouds. They still enjoyed the hike itself, but it’s worth trying to pick a clear day to do the hike.

If you think the hike might be a little bit too challenging for you, you could consider hiking to Laguna Capri and back. I speak all about alternative hikes in my El Chalten trekking guide .

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The BEST Hikes in El Chalten: Ultimate Hiking Guide

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Visiting La Leona Petrified Forest: El Calafate’s Hidden Gem

Hike Mount Fitz Roy and Laguna de los Tres

The hike Mount Fitz Roy is absolutely my favorite hike in Patagonia. In this article, I explain to you all the trials that go to Mount Fitz Roy and Laguna de los Tres, and what the expect during your hike. A beautiful trail starting from El Chaltén Argentina.

Read more: Prepare your stay in El Chaltén hotels and hostels

The Hike to Mount Fitz Roy

The trekking to Mount Fitz Roy starts in the little town El Chaltén. The nearest bigger city is El Calafate—also, the city where you can arrive by plane.

The trial is around 10 km (6.2 miles) long one-way and takes you around 4 hours. Doing the trekking in one day is possible and that takes you around 9 hours.

Where the trekking starts

The trial starts on the edge of El Chaltén or near the Patagonia Eco Domes and Hostería El Pilar. Both trials are beautiful and end at Mount Fitz Roy. If you want to start from Hostería El Pilar, take into account that you need to drive there. The road is not in the best condition. Of course, the easiest way is to start from El Chaltén.

How long is the hike to Fitz Roy?

Weather condition

It’s important that you do the hike to Mount Fitz Roy when the weather forecast is good. I suggest to don’t starting the hike when it’s too windy or rain is forecasted. The weather can rapidly change too.  This is the link to the National Weather Institute of Argentina – SMN. The predictions that they made are pretty accurate for the day itself.

How is the trial?

The trial is actually in good condition. The walking path is clear and the signs are well-placed along the path. Of course, good walking shoes are necessary. You can fill your water bottles from the rivers that are located near the path.

Where to stay near the start

As there are two points to start the trekking, you can stay in El Chaltén or near the entrance of Sandero El Pilar. El Chaltén has the benefit that there are some restaurants and small supermarkets nearby.

Pudu Lodge is located very close to the start of the trial. Just a couple of meters away. Breakfast is included in the booking. It is a cozy place to stay and come to rest after the hike.

Hosteria Senderos

Hosteria Senderos is a very cozy and charming place to stay. All in wood and warm feeling. Located at the entrance of El Chaltén, so it a bit further from the path to Mount Fitz Roy. Breakfast is also included.

Book here your stay at Hosteria Senderos

Patagonia Eco Domes

Starting from the trial El Pilar, there is Patagonia Eco Domes. One of the most iconic stays near Mount Fitz Roy. Beautiful views but pretty cold during the night 😀

A stay at the domes gives you that extra experience to your stay in El Chaltén.

Book here your stay at the Patagonia Eco Domes

More places to stay in El Chaltén

Since 2017 I'm living in Buenos Aires close to the heart of Patagonia. The perfect home base to start many trips throughout the beautiful Patagonian landscapes. With Secrets of Patagonia, I like to share honest information to plan your once in a lifetime trip. Hours of talking with local residents, traveling by myself and the experience of working in the tourism industry. I hope you will enjoy Patagonia as much as I do.

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The Complete guide for Mount Fitz Roy hike from El Chalten, Argentina

The Mount Fitz Roy hike is arguably one of the most heavenly and beautiful hikes in Patagonia, Argentina.  Yes, we know that’s a bold statement.  

Mount Fitz Roy (also known as Mount Fitz Roy Cerro Chalten, or Cerro Fitz Roy) is the mountain border that separates Argentina and Chile and the Laguna de los Tres is the crown jewel of hikes for Argentina, which ends at the base of Mount Fitz Roy.

After all, the clothing brand, Patagonia, designed their logo after the peaks of Mt Fitz Roy. 

We want to start this post by saying that we did not train for this hike. The fact that we were brewery hopping days before in Buenos Aires should put that in perspective.

This hike was listed as “moderately challenging”, but we found it to be more than moderately challenging, especially if you aren’t in the best shape of your life (like us). 

This post below was designed as a step-by-step hiking guide for your trek of Laguna de los Tres to the base of Mount Fitz Roy.

Short on Time? Here are the key takeaways:

• While this hike is considered “moderately challenging” the first 2 km and last 2 km were the hardest parts due to elevation gain. The overall length of this hike is what made this even harder for us.
• Poles aren’t necessary until the last bit. We didn’t use them until KM 9 and we were very happy we had them.
• The Mt Fitz Roy hike can easily be done in a day if you want to avoid camping (or pumas) like we did.

**Boozing Abroad contains affiliate links throughout the site. If you choose to purchase items through these links, we will earn a small commission at NO extra cost to you. Read the full disclosure policy here **

Quick Overview of Patagonia 

The name Patagonia came from Ferdinand Magellan who thought the Tehuelche Indians looked liked ‘Patagon’, a dog-headed monster from a 16th-century Spanish romance novel.

From then on, the original inhabitants were known as Patagones.

Seriously?!

We can’t make this sh*t up. When we found this from the encyclopedia , we had to share it.

Today, Patagonia is made up of the southern region of Argentina and Chile that spans over 260,000 square miles (673,000 square kilometers) and encompasses the Andes mountains, grasslands, deserts and more.

Located in the Los Glaciares National Park , Monte Fitz Roy is 11,171 feet (3,405 meters) tall and can be accessed through El Chaltén in Argentina on the Laguna de los Tres trek.

READ MORE:  Complete Guide to El Chaltén Argentina, Basecamp to Patagonia

Renting Hiking Equipment 

We rented trekking poles from an appropriately-named shop in town called Patagonia Hikes; but, there are at least 6 shops where you can rent equipment.

The last 1 kilometer of the Laguna de los Tres trail is rather steep and very rocky, and it was suggested that we had trekking poles.

Because they aren’t needed the whole hike, we wanted (telescopic) adjustable poles that we could hang on our daypacks when not in use.

They were $175 ARS (about $4 USD) per pair per day. If you damage them, they are $2000 ARS (about $45 USD) to replace.  

Even if you break the poles and have to replace them, that’s still cheaper than buying a pair at home, putting them in a checked bag (not allowed in carry-on luggage) and carrying them with you for your trip. So unless you are married to your personal trekking poles, consider renting them here.

Here is a list of all the equipment you can rent (and prices in 2019). To be honest, if we were camping, we’d probably rent everything we needed.  

Price it out for yourself, but it might be cheaper (and easier) than lugging it all with you around Argentina – unless you are badass and here solely for hiking.

Tour Options and Info

If you are a little hesitant to try this on you own, you can hire a guide. There are also several camping options that combine a few different viewpoints.

Check out these popular El Chalten tour options:

• Full Day Trekking to Mount Fitz Roy : This tour is professionally guided. You will need to pack and bring your own food and supplies.
• 2-Day Hiking Guide (Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre):  While we did both Mt Ft Roy and Cerro Torre, this 2-day hike allows you to camp along the trail with supplies, food and a guide included. It’s a great option if you want to camp!

See all the various El Chalten and Patagonia tours on  Viator .

Where to Stay in El Chalten

Let’s start by saying that you can walk across town in about 15 minutes so no matter where you pick, you won’t be far from anything.

There are two “main” streets in El Chalten where you will find everything you need from restuarants and hiking gear to massages and breweries .

Picking a place is super easy and you’ll be close to everything.

Booking.com probably has the widest selection of budget (and luxury) accommodations in the world. In our experience, they consistently found the cheapest rooms. We also like their easy to use interface and no money down policy. When we book our travel stays, we personally use booking.com.

Places near the Monte Fitz Roy Trailhead

Rancho Grande – Hostel

When you complete this hike, the last thing you want to do is walk any further than you have to and the Rancho Grande is less than a minute from the trailhead. A dorm room/hostel style hotel, this places is cheap and the restaurant on site is tasty with massive portions.

>>>>Book your stay here now!

Cabañas Austral – Low-key Cabin vibes

If you’d like a little more privacy than the hostel, Cabanas Austral is a great option. These quaint cabins have full kitchens, private bathrooms and a loft sleeping area. While the cabins don’t have a living area, the location is ideal as it’s off one of the main roads.

>>>Book your stay here now!

Hosteria El Puma – Hotel

Hosteria El Puma is a true hotel and on the main street just a short walk from the trail head. The rooms are larger than most and laundry is available on site.

Laguna de los Tres – the Hike 

Length : 20 km (12.42 miles) round trip, 8-10 hours

Difficulty : This is listed as moderate or medium on actual hiking blogs.  AKA: not for beginners (Boozing Abroad); hard and strenuous due to the long distance and long stretches of uphill hiking.

When to start: We highly suggest starting as early as possible. The first viewpoint of Monte Fitz Roy is about 1 hour in. If you can get there when the sun rises (or shortly after), you will be rewarded with a gorgeous orange hue on the mountain.

Laguna de los Tres trek is a doable all-day hike from El Chaltén or you have the option of camping along the trail with 2 different campsites available:

• Campamento Poincenot (near kilometer 8)
• Campamento Laguna Capri (near kilometer 3.5 – by the lake)

There are portable toilets near the sites (bring your own toilet paper) and if you do camp, you can NOT use fire to cook food. 

Also, there is a way to combine this hike with the Cerro Torre hike. We did not do the full loop, but you are able to access the other trail in between kilometers 7 and 8 at “Madre E Hija, Camp de Agostini and Lag. Torre”.

Also, you can drink the water from any stream or lake, so refilling your hydration pack/water bottle is super easy!

How to Find the Trailhead (Laguna de los Tres) 

With the small size of El Chaltén, this should have been more straightforward; but a lack of sleep and no caffeine made this fun at 6:30AM.  

We want to spell this out for you since it took us an embarrassingly long time to find it (again, we weren’t hikers at the time and there are literally a dozen different trailheads in town).  

It’s near the top of the map below (downtown El Chaltén is basically the bottom half of the map):

Once you know where it is, it’s hard to miss the big sign that reads “Sendero al Fitz Roy”.

If you don’t know Spanish, you will also see this sign below  and might assume it’s talking about the trail difficulty – it’s not. It’s talking about the fire danger.

The sign below is where they begin to track the kilometer readings on the path. The Laguna de los Tres hike is clearly marked and you can do it easily without a guide.  

Each kilometer is marked so you know your progress as you hike.

From here, you start your epic journey.

Monte Fitz Roy Hike -Laguna de los Tres

Kilometers 0 – 2.

Climb a small mountain – uphill 75-80% of the time

KM 1: The start of this hike will leave you gasping for as the first kilometer is pretty much straight uphill.  It’s a great first test to make sure you are committed! 

As it’s shaded by trees with no view, put your camera away until you get the to Mirador (viewpoint) Rio de las Vueltas about 0.7 km from the sign at the beginning.

We rested for a few minutes here since our calf muscles were burning and we just started this damn hike (remember, we said we weren’t in shape for this hike).

Here, we pulled out the cameras as the next kilometer is a great view of the valley and river below.

KM 2: Go in and out of the forest and will start to level out.

Kilometers 3 – 5

Over the hill and through the woods (Grandma’s house doesn’t await you)

KM 3: Not even 1 minute after the sign for kilometer 3, the path splits.

As you can see below, the path is a circle, so whatever way you pick on the outbound, choose the other one on the return.

No matter which direction you go, you will be rewarded with a view Mount Fitz Roy.

If you go right , you will end up at the Mirador (pictured below). 

It was here at this viewpoint that we got our first true glimpse of why people make this trek!

The sign details the stunning scenery and explains the landscape in front of you. If you can make it here at sunrise, I can’t imagine just how beautiful it would be.

Also, this is also where we first experienced the full force of the legendary Patagonian winds they talk about. We quickly through another layer on.

If you go left at the fork (pictured above), you will find the first campsite, a toilet and a view of Fitz Roy mountain over Lago Capri. This picture below from the lake was from our walk back.

Making your way around the loop, you will walk in and out of trees and brush while continuing to see Fitz Roy mountain.

KM 4: Past the 4-kilometer mark, you will come to another fork in the road.

Follow the arrows to Laguna de los Tres and Compamento Poicenot.

KM 5: This will be in the woods (short, uncovered trees) and relatively flat with rewarding views and will open up towards the end to a flat, open valley.

Kilometers 6 – 7 

The Calm Before the Storm

KM 6: This will be a welcome change of scenery with an open, flat trail that leads around a small pond with Monte Fitz Roy’s peak teasing you as you continue to walk along the path.

If you are running low on water, there will be a stream on the right that you can walk to for a refill.

Water will be easily accessible from this point through kilometer 10.

KM 7: This will be mostly open with more river and marsh crossings, and still with gorgeous views.

Here, you will also see this fork in the road below.  If you were looking to go to Laguna Torre (aka Cerro Torre hike) in the same day (because you’re either crazy or a badass), this is where you can pick up the path here on the way back.

Kilometers 8 – 9 

Camping at Campamento Poincenot

KM 8 : This is the second of the campsites on the trail and is flat and under large trees.

There will be signs to let you know you’ve arrived as well as a Puma warning (yes, the big kitty). There is a toilet here as well.

There are several small streams with bridges you will cross as you start to get into more rocky terrain.

Kilometers 9 – 10

Challenging: (Adjective) meaning difficult to do and involving a lot of effort

You know in a fairy tale when the hero is just about to accomplish something epic, but a dragon shows up, spits fire, releases havoc, and then there is a big fight scene before you can move forward?

This is that point of the story.

The warning sign at the base of this reads, “ Good physical condition is required. ”

They aren’t joking.

Get your trekking poles out.

Make sure your laces are tight because you are about to fight a dragon.

This isn’t shaded either, so put on your hat and sunglasses and reapply sunscreen now.

The very last part of this hike gains elevation at 400 meters per kilometer – in layman’s terms – this is steep.

It takes roughly 1 hour to get up if you don’t stop.

It took us around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

 Roughly a 45-degree angle up, you are ascending a mountain. You will feel the burn with every step and to make matters worse, the majority of this is very rocky with loose gravel.

Feeling hopeless on this part of the hike, you make it to what you think is the top. Because the universe wants to test your sanity, the path flattens out, and you think you’ve made it.

Then you look forward and what lies ahead can only be described as a hill that continues to ascend on an open, steep, and pebbly path.

You climb the slippery, windy path to the top, with the sun beating down on you, and then finally…..

You made it!

The only sound you can hear against the wind is your heart pounding in your ears. Your legs feel as though they might give out and your lungs literally might explode out of your chest.

Take a rest on the rocks near the top, eat your lunch, and enjoy the view of the incredible Monte Fitz Roy. And bask in the glory of accomplishing a pretty challenging ascent.

We ventured down the hill to the Laguna de los Tres lake where we refilled a water bottle, took several photos, and shared a beer. Yes, a beer.  A Patagonia beer, of course!

From here, there is another 2 kilometer hike that takes you to different vantage points, but we were too tired (and honestly, out of shape) to even fathom that hike.

We also reached the summit at 1:20PM, having started later than planned. We started at 9:03AM so it took us roughly 4.5 hours to reach the end.

We sat for about 20 minutes relaxing, stretching, and eating lunch and then another 20 minutes by the lake.

If you only have time for 1 hike near El Chaltén, you need to do this one. Was the last part brutal? Absolutely — but 1000% worth it!

To see a virtual tour of the hike, which is the coolest thing I’ve seen, click here . Click on “Virtual Tour” and press “Start Virtual Tour”.

You can see what the entire path looks like from a bird’s eye view!

Things we wish we knew

The first lookout point is only an hour into the hike. If you can time it for sunrise, do it.

Shame on us for not doing enough research as I’m sure this is somewhere on the web, but we didn’t know and would have altered our time accordingly.

The “toilets” on the trail are 4 walls with a massive hole in the floor. Thinking about the smell still makes us gag. (Side note: Who’s job is this to maintain the hole and how is it cleaned?

Are you telling me you carry crap (literally) for kilometers out of the park?!)

Ladies, as previously mentioned in the What to Pack post , Samantha purchased a Female Urinary Director and she’s beyond grateful she did. This saved her from having to squat over this hole.

It’s awkward, yes, but she couldn’t have imagined peeing without it on this hike.

Monte Fitz Roy is without a doubt the longest (and most challenging) hike we’ve ever done.

Well, we’ve only ever done a handful together at this point in our lives with this being one of them.

The hike to the top was spectacular as the peak of Fitz Roy mountain was seen the majority of the hike.

We were told by fellow hikers who had done Torres del Paine that you aren’t able to see the peaks until the very end of that hike so we were constantly amazed at the beauty of the landscape the entire time.

Hiking in Patagonia isn’t necessarily a bucket list item for everyone. The physical requirements alone rule out a large portion of the world’s population as you must push your body to the max.

If we are being honest, we can’t believe we did it. There were several times Samantha muttered, “leave me here” as she was gasping to breathe.

Granted, we aren’t in the best shape of our lives either.

You can’t have a booze blog, drink beer all the time, and expect this to be easy!

We didn’t stop with this hike either. We hiked Cerro Torre the next day too, which in comparison to Monte Fitz Roy / Laguna de los Tres, easy-peasy.

Psst!   Looking for more Argentina guides?  We have a bunch. Browse the  10 day Argentina guide here  or check out the most popular post below:

• Complete Hiking Guide for Cerro Torre
• What to Pack for day hiking in Patagonia
• The Complete Guide to El Chaltén Argentina – Patagonia Basecamp

Samantha and Chris fell in love with traveling together back in 2015. They met, married, and lived together in Richmond, VA for 7 years before becoming full-time travelers in 2020.

Along the way, they've traveled to over 40 U.S. states and 20 countries while drinking local beers, wines, and spirits during their journeys.

Join them as they share travel resources, stories, and guides based on their personal experiences drinking locally when traveling globally.

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Hike the Fitz Roy Trek in Patagonia’s Glacier-Sculpted Terrain

Leading you to the base of the towering Mount Fitz Roy, this trek snakes through vast valleys, among jagged spires and past glistening glaciers.

Carved out by glaciers eons ago, Mount Fitz Roy towers over a treasure trove of awe-inspiring trails in Patagonia’s stunning landscape. Fitz Roy sits right on the border between Argentina and Chile, guarding “Argentina’s Trekking Capital,” El Chaltén. Winding through the heart of UNESCO World Heritage site, Los Glaciares National Park , the Fitz Roy trek is the gateway to the walls of Patagonia’s iconic granite massif. The serrated peaks pose as a majestic backdrop on many of the national park’s hikes, and the Fitz Roy trek is no different.

The stunning view of the mountain competes with panoramas of giant glaciers across the rugged terrain. The otherworldly glacial peaks meet forests, lagoons and valleys, all thanks to the dynamic and every-shifting landscape of the sprawling South Patagonian Ice Field. This ice cap is where Fitz Roy can be found.

Pros and Cons of Hiking the Fitz Roy Trek

Discover icy, turquoise lakes with hidden swimming holes on one of the best hikes in the world . Travel past vast grasslands pummeled by the ruthless Patagonian winds. Then, soak in the panoramic views of the wilderness while hiking in the shadow of the legendary Fitz Roy. This is the other Patagonia trek you didn’t know you were waiting for.

Trekking in Patagonia’s wilderness

Hiking and mountaineering have a special place in my heart. Now based in Northern Patagonia, for a few months of the year, I live in El Chaltén, the village where the company I work for, Walk Patagonia, is based. I’ve hiked the classic trails winding around the legendary Fitz Roy trek countless times, and also off-the-beaten-path. Tours in Patagonia feature everything from kayaking or horseback riding in the surroundings of Los Glaciares National Park to hiking in Torres Del Paine National Park to the south. While I’m not a guide myself, I provide personalized recommendations to our clients, based on their previous experiences and expectations.

I consider Patagonia to be paradise on Earth. My favorites have to be the hikes that have escaped the hype. There’s nothing I love more than helping people find a hike they’re going to enjoy — be it a crowd favorite or a hidden gem.

What does Fitz Roy mean?

Originally, Fitz Roy had the name Cerro Chaltén, which translates in the native Aonikenk language to “smoking mountain.” The ever-present clouds made it seem as if the jagged peaks were smoking, inspiring the name. Many of the region’s names go back to the Aonikenk language. Petroglyphs and other artifacts reveal that early inhabitants of the area once lived near the peaks. Mount Fitz Roy, or Cerro Fitz Roy as it’s called locally, was renamed after captain Robert Fitzroy who set out to chart the desolate Patagonian coast in 1834. Even though the name Fitz Roy is the more common name these days, the clouded Cerro Chaltén still very much applies.

Where is Fitz Roy located?

Mount Fitz Roy is located on the border between Argentina and Chile, part of the Andes Mountains in southwest Argentina. The mountain rises from the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, a 13,000 square kilometer expanse covered in flowing glaciers, fjords and mountains stretching to the most southern tip of the South American continent. The massive ice sheet contains the third largest amount of freshwater ice, and the largest in the southern hemisphere outside of Antarctica. This also means Patagonia is one of the windiest and wettest places on Earth.

Fitz Roy is also part of the Los Glaciares National Park. The peak is walking distance from the village of El Chaltén, the gateway to the mountain, as well as a coveted rock climbing and hiking spot. El Chaltén was actually founded in 1985, and I dare to say it didn’t really get popular until the start of the 21st century. In 2015, the area was dubbed “Argentina’s Trekking Capital.”

How high is Fitz Roy?

Towering Mount Fitz Roy is about 3,400 meters (11,000-plus feet) high. Whether you choose to hike to the foot of this iconic mountain or climb it, the sight of Fitz Roy will leave you wondering how is it possible such epic landscapes exist. You’ll see this jagged mountain rising from the distance on most of the hikes in the park. It’s truly inspiring to see its three spires piercing the bright-blue sky. The Fitz Roy hike difficulty isn’t to be underestimated — it’s considered one of the most challenging hikes in the world. Fortunately, there are several options to accommodate a range of fitness levels.

Hiking the Classic Fitz Roy Trek

Many hikers wish to discover Patagonia, and for good reason. Due to the scenery, sights and adventure, it can be difficult to decide between the W Trek in Torres del Paine and the Mount Fitz Roy trek. Fortunately, the proximity and access in the area means you can take in the highlights. It’s easy to build an itinerary that matches your goals. If you work with locals, your tour can link the best of the trails, vistas and lakes.

Experience Fitz Roy day hikes like Lagunas Torres and De los Tres

Los Glaciares National Park offers glacier-fed lakes, imposing peaks and challenging treks that take you high up into the mountains. Choose from crowd favorites like the Lagunas Torres and Lagunas de los Tres to get the full effect of glaciers reflecting off turquoise lakes. If you’re up for a challenge and have plenty of experience under your belt, make your ascent along the steep ridges of Loma de Las Pizarras or Loma del Pliegue Tumbado. Waiting for you at the top are the most rewarding panoramic views of your life. A day hike isn’t impossible for the average hiker, but it’s worth the sweat and challenge.

Join up with the Laguna Torre Trek with an overnight stay

Reserving just one day for this bucket-list destination is not enough. Trust me. Most people opt for a joint Fitz Roy and Laguna Torre trek . The two days it takes to hike this unforgettable trek are jam-packed with unimaginable photo-ops. Get ready for turquoise lakes dotted with chunks of ice, narrow trails winding through impressive granite massifs and formidable glaciers fed by the massive Southern Patagonian Ice Cap. Here is an overview of what might await you on two-day Fitz Roy trek tours.

The adventure starts at El Pilar trailhead. You’ll be able to see Mount Fitz Roy rising from the distance from this vantage point. Once you pass through a wooden archway signaling the beginning of the trail, you’ll make your first ascent. The path will take you through a thick forest, providing a gentle warm up for what’s to come. As you make your way, your eyes will drift towards a tall, glistening feature hidden behind the trees. That’s the Piedras Blancas Glacier. Not long after, you’ll reach the first mirador, also called a viewpoint. Get a better look of the stunning ice giant. After a narrow patch of bush, the trail opens up to a vast grassland.

Conquer the hardest part of the trail to reach Laguna de los Tres

Patagonia has been merciful thus far and it’s time to get those lungs going. The most challenging part of the trail awaits. One steep, trying ascent and you’ll find yourself catching your breath not only from treacherous hiking, but from the beauty of Laguna de los Tres. This is the crowning glory of the Los Glaciares National Park. It combines the views of a lagoon that looks like it’s not from our world. Soak in the majestic glacier and, of course, Mount Fitz Roy standing proudly in the distance.

You’ll then head towards the Poincenot campground. The sooner you set up your tent, the sooner you’ll be able to get back to admiring the peaks. Make sure to get plenty of rest, as you’ll have an early start in the morning.

Day Two: Witness the legendary Fitz Roy sunrise

Make the effort to rise before the sun does and get your camera ready. If the weather allows it, you’ll witness the most magnificent sunrise of your life. As the first sunbeams reach the snow-covered peaks, they start to glimmer with life. Shortly after, the rays set Fitz Roy’s pristine granite ablaze, turning the otherwise white mountain a fiery orange. With this awe-inspiring backdrop, you’ll trek past turquoise Madre and Hija lagoons.

End the Fitz Roy trek by heading to Laguna Torre

The trail drops down into the Torre Valley. Here you’ll find its namesake peak and glacier waiting on the other side. Most hikers have lunch while overlooking the ice floating in the lagoon. It’s a moment to catch your breath — and count your blessings. The Fitz Roy river will show you the way back. A valley with a couple of moraine crossings will be your last challenge before you reach the city of El Chaltén.

Insider Info for Your Fitz Roy Trek

I’ve lost count of how many times I ventured to the classic trails at the foot of Fitz Roy. That being said, Patagonia’s wilderness is unforgiving. Luckily, all it takes to coexist with this wild space is good preparation and endurance. Willingness to be flexible can also go a long way. Here are my tips and insights for everything you need to keep in mind while planning your trip.

How long is the Fitz Roy hike?

The classic Mount Fitz Roy tour is 24 kilometers (15 miles) long. The hike doesn’t follow a specific route, but most start from either the village of El Chaltén or El Pilar trailhead. How long it takes to hike to the base of Fitz Roy is completely up to your fitness level and desired pace. Most hikers complete the trek in around eight hours. You can opt for a day hike or extend your Patagonia adventure and stay overnight. By staying the extra night, if the weather allows it, you’ll witness the legendary Fitz Roy trek sunrise. In addition to that unforgettable experience, clear Laguna Torre lake and its glacier reflecting on the calm water are a must-see. These sights alone are completely worth the trip.

The best time of the year to hike Fitz Roy depends on your comfort level

The skies are typically clear anywhere from late October to early April, but the weather in Patagonia can’t always be trusted. Come October, this sleepy mountain village is brimming with life as the community gathers at the gateway to Fitz Roy. It’s easy to tell why Lonely Planet rated El Chaltén as one of the best cities to visit in the world. As long as you have experience with hiking in snow, you can hike the Fitz Roy trek route year round. Keep in mind that its steep trails become even trickier with a layer of powder and ice.

Patagonia’s microclimate is something else. A sunny, calm day can quickly turn and have you shivering in a matter of minutes. The photos that drew you in don’t show the always present, invisible force of nature that can cause difficulties even on the nicest days. I’m talking about the wind! My advice: Be like an onion. Wear plenty of layers to guard against the elements, and you’re good to go.

How hard is the Fitz Roy hike?

The Fitz Roy hike difficulty is moderate and builds up to a hard ascent, gaining 400 meters of elevation in the last kilometer of the trail. The terrain changes from a forest floor ridden with bulky roots sticking out of the ground into a rocky, steep trail where you’ll need to mind the boulders. It’s not recommended you take your first steps towards mountaineering on the Fitz Roy trek. To get the most out of your trip, make sure you can easily hike on an about 40 percent incline, while carrying a small daypack. That said, you can hire porters to take the load off your back, literally.

Do you need a permit?

There are no permits needed for your stay in the Los Glaciares National Park. You do need to pay an admission fee . One of the perks of using a guiding service is that fees will be taken care of, so you don’t have to worry about the logistics.

Patagonia’s Mount Fitz Roy lodging won’t leave you wanting

Whether you want to set up a tent in Patagonia’s wilderness or be pampered in a luxury hotel, you’ll have plenty of options. Both El Calafate and El Chaltén have high-end hotels, so people can stay at luxury hotels in both. In 2021, the Explora chain is set to open a hotel in the area and in El Chaltén itself, there are hostels where you’ll get to meet fellow adventurers. The Internet connection is less than ideal and you won’t find a nightclub, but you’ll find a sense of peace and relaxation in El Chaltén.

Find plenty of free camping near Fitz Roy

When I hike in the mountains, I prefer to camp out. Like-minded people who desire a more rustic experience can head to Los Glaciares’ many campgrounds . Free camping can be found at Poincenot near Laguna des los Tres. Agostini campground near Laguna Torre has similar accommodations, such as a simple toilet. There are also campsites in town, but they aren’t free. Make sure to arrive ahead of time, as the number of hikers eager to explore the Fitz Roy trek grows every year.

Prepare for your Fitz Roy trek by packing for all four seasons

If you stick to the classic routes, a simple daypack and your average hiking gear will do the trick. This includes sturdy and waterproof hiking shoes, merino wool base layers, thick socks that are moisture wicking, and a hat or even light gloves to keep you warm. Also, you’ll most likely feel like you’ve experienced all four seasons while hiking in Patagonia, so you can’t go wrong with layers. A trusty windbreaker will be your best friend. The rumors about the wind are true! As for the shoes, a sturdy pair of hiking boots should be your go-to. Make sure you break them in by wearing on a couple longer hikes before the Fitz Roy trek and that they offer optimal ankle support. Your feet will thank you for it.

The more challenging trails feature technical ascents and call for advanced gear like crampons, harnesses and carabiners. I always prefer to stay in the mountains when I’m hiking, and I advise you to do the same. In that case, leave room for camping supplies. Pack light and don’t forget your camera!

How do you get to Fitz Roy?

Most hikers get to Mount Fitz Roy by flying into El Calafate, Argentina, from Buenos Aires. You’ll then drive to the town of El Chaltén at the base of the mountain. You can easily get to the Fitz Roy trailhead from El Chaltén. Once you reach the peaceful village of El Chaltén, it will take you about half an hour to transfer to the trailhead, or you can opt for a scenic stroll to the base of your hike.

Is the Fitz Roy trek safe?

The Mount Fitz Roy trek is safe long as you’re mindful of your surroundings. Like on any other outdoor adventure, you’re completely safe if you are mindful, bring a first aid kit and keep an eye on the weather. Patagonia boasts a rich wildlife, but its habitants are shy and uninterested in visitors. If you’re an avid birdwatcher, you’re in for a treat. You’ll see many condors and woodpeckers flying overhead on your hikes. You might hear a rustling in the bushes or see footprints in the snow, but that’s only a rabbit or a fox passing through.

Do you need a guide for the Fitz Roy trek?

You do not need a guide to hike the Fitz Roy trek. You’ll find plenty of markings along the way and the trail is easy to follow. If you opt for any of the more challenging treks, you should consider hiring a guide to ensure safety over glacier traverses and highly technical ascents.

Even though you can hike most of the trails solo, a guide will provide additional info on the stunning area surrounding you. Accidents can happen even to the most seasoned of hikers. You also won’t find phone coverage on the trek, so having someone experienced pays off. The icing on the cake is discovering all the hidden gems you otherwise wouldn’t even have heard of.

Experience the best of Los Glaciares National Park has to offer on a 2-day Mt. Fitz Roy & Laguna Torre hiking trip ! This might only be two days, but these 30km of hiking are sure to deliver memories to last a lifetime!

Barbara is a hiking and mountaineering enthusiast. With Walk Patagonia , she helps clients discover the many trails of Los Glaciares National Park and find one that was made just for them. When she isn’t planning adventures, you’ll find her far from the beaten path, among the many hidden gems of Patagonia.

Read reviews of similar trips

The ultimate pleasure hiker’s delight: meet the alpe-adria trail, hiking the untouched nature of the via dinarica, bryce canyon hikes: easy access to otherworldly views.

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Hiking Guide Cerro Torre & Mt. Fitz Roy Trek in El Chalten

The Monte Fitz Roy Trek in El Chalten is the most beautiful hiking trail in southern Patagonia apart from Torres del Paine . Use this hiking guide and trek the national park Los Glaciares on your own with the hiking trails and info provided below.

[divider] Hiking Guide Cerro Torre & Mt. Fitz Roy – Quick Navigation (click to get to the related chapter)

• Get in, money, best time
• Accommodation
• Cerro Torre & Laguna Torre Trek
• Monte Fitz Roy Trek & Laguna de los Tres
• Circuit Trail Fitz Roy & Cerro Torre
• What to wear & Equipment
• Guided Trekking Tours
• My Video Guide

1) Get in, money, best time

2) Accommodation

3) Cerro Torre Trek (24km, 6h, easy)

4) Monte Fitz Roy Trek (26km, 8h, medium)

5) Circuit Trail Fitz Roy & Torre (34km, 2 days, medium)

6) What to wear & equipment

Believe it or not: Outdoor equipment is very expensive in South America – therefore I recommend buying the equipment before leaving.   I made a full packing list with everything you need based on my experience in El Chalten and the other parts of Patagonia:

• Patagonia Packing List for Trekking & Camping

I found the following items most valuable given the harsh conditions in Patagonia:

• 1x good, waterproof Hiking Boots –
• 2 x Hiking Pants , with the option to turn into a short pant (winter: choose a thicker one)
• 1 x Fleece Jacket – highly recommended for every season!
• 1 x waterproof Jacket – my recommendation would be the bright orange one from Marmot to stick out in photos (winter: take a warm waterproof winter jacket or combine with a down jacket)

7) Guided Trekking Tours

Another option is to book a complete tour – this way you can leave the organization, accommodation, transportation and navigation on the trails to local experts. Though you pay more you'll get the full package this way including knowledgable guides.   After working with them in South America and Africa I highly recommend the tours offered by G Adventures as their philosophy and focus on sustainable travel are in line with my personal values. With many years of expertise you can expect a well organized, fun trips in small groups with like-minded travelers:

• Patagonia Hiking – active 9 day tour focussing on the area around El Chaltén and El Calafate including the hikes to Fitz Roy (Laguna de los Tres, guided hike), Cerro Torre (Laguna Torre, optional), Rafting in the Glacier National Park and a visit to the impressive Perito Moreno Glacier near El Calafate. Domestic flights, Transportation, Accommodation, Rafting, Guides and Breakfast included.
• Argentina Multisport – the right tour if you are a true adventurer! This active 15 day tour takes you across the whole country for rafting, cycling and trekking, including the area around El Chaltén and a visit to the impressive Perito Moreno Glacier near El Calafate amongst many other destinations. All Domestic flights, Transportation, Accommodation, Rafting, Guides, Wine Tour and Breakfast included.
• Hike Patagonia in depth – active 14 day tour covering the highlights of Patagonia, including the Torres del Paine W trek, El Chaltén (Fitz Roy, Cerro Torre) and El Calafate (Perito Moreno glacier) including meals, guide, camps & tents, hotels, transport and porters
• Patagonia & Tierra del Fuego – active 14 day tour covering the highlights of Patagonia & the southern tip of the continent, including the Torres del Paine W trek, El Chaltén (Fitz Roy, Cerro Torre), El Calafate (Perito Moreno glacier) and Ushuaia. This also includes meals, guide, camps & tents, hotels, transport and porters.

8) My video from El Chaltén

More Patagonia guides

If you want to explore more spots in Patagonian make sure to check out my related articles:

• The 6 Best Places to Visit in Patagonia
• Backpacking in Argentina – All you need to know
• The 10 best Hostels in South America
• 30 Tips and Ways to Stay Safe While Traveling

Have you done the Monte Fitz Roy Trek?

Have you been to El Chaltén yourself? Do you have any recommendations and tips regarding Trekking in El Chaltén you want to share with us? Feel free to put them into the comment section below! [divider] Disclaimer: This article contains Affiliate Links for services and products I’m using on my travels – therefore I can highly recommend using them. By using this links you won’t pay any additional fees! [divider]

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About The Author

Steve Hänisch

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Laguna De Los Tres Hike: Everything You Need To Know

Laguna De Los Tres. If only I had known what was in store for me when starting this challenging day hike in El Chalten, Argentina.

But was it worth it? Of course!

With Mount Fitz Roy as the backdrop, Laguna De Los Tres, otherwise known as the Fitz Roy hike, is an iconic trail in the hiking mecca of Patagonia.

But it’s a strenuous hike – one that I completely underestimated!

Here’s everything you need to know about hiking to Laguna De Los Tres.

Torn Tackies contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of these links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See my disclosure for more information.

Quick Navigation

Laguna De Los Tres hike summary

• Distance: 22km
• Time needed: 5 hours up, 4 hours down
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Route type: Out and back
• Laguna De Los Tres elevation gain: 800m

How long is Laguna De Los Tres

Laguna De Los Tres is a 22 km hike. Because it’s an out-and-back track, you’ll walk the same path up as you would back down again.

It takes 7 to 9 hours to complete but this is dependent on where you start the trek and your fitness levels.

You’ll need to come prepared with food, snacks and water as there are no shops along the trail. However, there are a few streams where you can refill your water bottle.

Laguna De Los Tres hike difficulty

The Fitz Roy hike is not easy, and I found it to be one of the more challenging treks in El Chalten . But it’s worth it!

Here’s what you need to consider if you’re wondering how hard it is.

• The distance of 22km
• The steep section you need to ascend just before arriving at Laguna De Los Tres

The first 3 km of the trail is uphill. But this won’t seem too bad as you’ll feel strong and excited for what’s to come. That was my experience, at least (but later that day was a completely different story).

After that, the trail becomes flat… until you’re 8 km in.

It’s all uphill from here, and the last 2 km to Laguna De Los Tres are a slow slog. I found this section to be extremely difficult and the heat only makes it worse.

Still wanting to take on the Fitz Roy hike? Here’s a step-by-step guide!

How to get to the Laguna De Los Tres hike trailhead

There are two starting points for the Laguna De Los Tres hike.

The most popular route is from El Chalten where you’ll find the trailhead located on the far end of town.

To get here, follow San Martin Avenue until you reach a big parking area that has a sign to the Laguna De Los Tres trailhead. You can’t miss it.

Here’s the exact location .

Alternative Trailhead to get to Laguna De Los Tres

The alternative starting point is at Rio Blanco, 15 km from El Chalten.

To get there, you’ll need to drive or book a taxi. Don’t try to walk it!

This alternative starting point at Rio Blanco is popular because it cuts out the first 3 km hike from town – which is mostly uphill.

Many people hike from Rio Blanco and then come back down via the regular route to town.

So which is better? I recommend the standard route from the trailhead in El Chalten to Fitz Roy and back again.

It’s the route I took and easiest to coordinate – especially if you don’t want the admin of organizing taxis at 5am!

The start of the Fitz Roy Hiking trail

The Laguna De Los Tres hike starts with a bang!

It’s pretty much all uphill for the first 3 km. You’ll gain 400m of elevation during this section (and another 400m during the last 2km before reaching Laguna De Los Tres).

You’ll pass beautiful viewpoints along the way, and the trail is well-marked throughout.

Mirador Fitz Roy

About 90 minutes into your hike, you’ll reach a fork in the road.

You can either take the left route to Laguna Capri (Campamento Capri) or the right path to Mirador Fitz Roy.

Both lead to the same point.

I recommend taking the right path to the Fitz Roy Mirador (viewpoint) on your way up. When you come back down, you can take the route via Laguna Capri.

Shortly after taking the trail to the right, you’ll pass a stunning viewpoint of Mount Fitz Roy.

Enjoy the next 3 km as they are flat and scenic!

The Uphill Climb from Poincenot Campsite

After 3 hours into your hike, you’ll reach Campamento Poincenot. This is where the alternative trailhead (Rio Blanco) meets with the standard one.

After walking through the picturesque campsite, you’ll cross a river. Keep walking straight, and soon you’ll notice a gradual incline through the forest.

This will ease you into the next part!

The trail soon becomes very rocky and uneven with little shade.

It’s steep – very steep ! But keep your head down and take as many breaks as you need.

As you get closer to the top, there is a “false summit.” This means that the end is in sight, only for you to arrive and realize that you have one more section to climb. But don’t worry, it’s not nearly as harsh and long as the one you would have just conquered.

Arriving at Laguna De Los Tres

5 hours after starting your Fitz Roy hike, you will reach Laguna De Los Tres.

Most travel guides say it takes around 4 hours – and I thought I would do it quicker as I’m relatively fit – but it took me 5 hours!

The view is magnificent, and you’ll have an “ aaaah ” moment after getting the first glimpse of Mount Fitz Roy up close.

Take some time out and have a well-deserved break and a bite to eat.

Even if you don’t have the energy, I highly recommend walking down to the base of the lake.

If you follow the track that hugs the laguna on the left, you’ll reach another epic viewpoint of Laguna Sucia.

Returning from Laguna De Los Tres

Give yourself at least 4 hours to get from Laguna De Los Tres to El Chalten.

Hiking down is tough on the knees, and the last 3 km will feel like they go on forever.

My legs, knees, and feet were absolutely exhausted (and aching) by the time I returned to the starting point. So I headed straight to the closest bar and got an ice-cold coke and beer!

Where to stay when hiking Fitz Roy

Most people doing the Laguna De Los Tres trek stay in El Chalten. It’s easy to walk to the trailhead from town, and there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from.

I stayed at Hosteria El Alamo and highly recommend it. It’s well-priced given the prime location and breakfast is included. The staff are so friendly and were happy to help me plan my hike to Laguna Los Tres. Check availability here.

If you’re looking for something more luxurious, you can’t go wrong with Chalten Suites Hotel . This is the perfect place to come home to after a long day of hiking. There’s an onsite restaurant and it’s just a stone’s throw away from the trailhead to Fitz Roy. Check availability here.

Camping Laguna De Los Tres

One regret I have is not camping in El Chalten.

While I loved coming home to a hot shower and comfy bed, I wish I had spent one night camping closer to Fitz Roy.

There are two campsites along the trail to Laguna De Los Tres: Campamento Capri and Campamento Poincenot.

Both offer scenic sites, allowing you to get closer to the iconic location. This means you don’t have to walk 22 km in one day and you can also make it to Laguna De Los Tres for sunrise.

If you choose to camp, you can then combine your Fitz Roy hike with a few other trails in the area.

Unlike the W Trek in Torres Del Paine , you don’t need to know pre book campsites in El Chalten. They are free and you can rent camping gear from town.

Best time to do the Laguna De Los Tres hike

To avoid the crowds, I recommend starting your hike at 5am.

This is when I started, and I was surprised to see no one else on the trail for at least 2.5 hours!

Even then, the trail wasn’t busy, and I enjoyed the views of Fitz Roy with very few other tourists. This was at 10 am.

On my way down at about 12 pm, the trail was extremely crowded and congested. This hike is on most travelers’ Argentina bucket list , so it’s understandable!

In my opinion, the reason to hike Fitz Roy earlier is not only to experience Laguna De Los Tres with few other tourists.

It’s also to enjoy the uphill trail without crowds and without being rushed. It gets super busy, and this last section is a narrow path meaning you could constantly be stepping aside for other tourists.

It takes an average of 8 hours to do the Laguna De Los Trek hike, so don’t leave too late, as you might end up walking alone in the dark.

Hiking Laguna De Los Tres independently

You do not need to book an organized tour to hike to Laguna De Los Tres. In fact, this is one hike you should avoid doing with a tour!

Because it’s a difficult trek and you’re going to want to walk at your own pace – whether that’s slow or fast.

The route is clearly marked and you won’t get lost.

costs to hike Laguna De Los Tres

The Laguna De Los Tres hike is completely free and there is no park entrance fee.

You don’t need to pre-book anything. Simply get on the trail and start walking!

What to pack from the Fitz Roy hike

• 2 Liters of water which you’ll need for the hike up. Once you’ve reached Laguna De Los Tres, you can refill your bottles with glacier water.
• Food: I bought rolls, ham, and cheese from the supermarket and made a sandwich at the top.
• Snacks: The trail is long, so bring some fruit and chocolate to keep you going.
• A packet for your trash.
• Hiking poles are useful, but not necessary.
• Flashlight if you’re starting the hike before sunrise.

Laguna De Los Tres vs Laguna Torre

When I first arrived in El Chalten, I was overwhelmed by the number of hiking trails available.

Here’s the low down!

There are two main hiking trails that you should do: Laguna De Los Tres (Fitz Roy hike) and Laguna Torre .

And while they both offer incredible views from the lagunas, the trails leading to them couldn’t be more different.

Laguna De Los Tres: 22 km with a grueling 90-minute hike to the summit, which offers the best views of Mount Fitz Roy.

Laguna Torre: 20 km hiking trail that’s easy compared to Laguna De Los Tres but with equally impressive views (but of Cerro Torre, not Fitz Roy).

If you have the time, I recommend doing both!

Is the Laguna De Los Tres hike worth it

Yes, if there’s one hike you should do in El Chalten, it’s Laguna De Los Tres.

It’s a challenging hike, but the views of the stunning turquoise waters of Laguna De Los Tres and the jagged peak of Mount Fitz Roy are breathtaking.

READ MORE: BEST THINGS TO DO IN BARILOCHE, PATAGONIA

Mount Fitz Roy dominates the Chalten skyline, and hiking to Laguna De Los Tres is the closest you’re going to get to the spectacular peak.

It’s a popular trail for a reason, as it’s a gorgeous sight that should be on your El Chalten bucket list.

If you’re body needs some time to recover after the hike, be sure to visit Glacier Huemul or Mirador de los Condores , both of which are a short drive from El Chalten.

Are you looking to hike to Laguna De Los Tres and Mount Fitz Roy? Do you have any questions about your trip? Drop me a message in the comments section below.

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Hi, I'm Carryn. I’m an adventure travel blogger trying to figure out my way through life by traveling and exploring. Join me as I share my travel guides and tips for life abroad. Find out more about me here .

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Laguna torre hike: a comprehensive guide to the best hiking trail in el chalten, 12 thoughts on “laguna de los tres hike: everything you need to know”.

Hi Carryn, I’m wondering if there is any real exposure on the Laguna De Los Tres hike, or on the Laguna Torre hike. I’m acrophobic (fear of heights). I don’t mind if the trail and the landscape is wide enough but I’m not good with sheer drop-offs! Thanks, Liz

There are no sheer drop offs if you stick to the marked trails. So you’ll be ok.

For the Laguna De Los Tres hike, there is a another viewpoint that overlooks Laguna Sucia. This viewpoint has a steep drop off, so I recommend skipping it. But don’t worry, you won’t miss much. You can still get to the best viewpoint of Laguna de Los Tres and you can walk to the waters edge. Just don’t follow the path left of the laguna which leads to the Laguna Sucia viewpoint.

Enjoy! Carryn

Hello! Sounds like an amazing experience!! Which month did you hike there? Im planning to go there in end of October.

Hi Mohammad,

I hiked Laguna de Los Tres in January and the weather was perfect! October is the start of the season so you should have great weather too.

Thank you so much for this detailed information! I am heading there at the end of November. Could you give me a steer on the kind of layers you wore? Was it freezing during the hike?

Thanks, Christine.

Hi Christine,

Because I started my hike before sunrise, it was pretty chilly. I wore a short sleeve top, a long sleeve lightweight top, a long sleeve fleece and a windbreaker. I was over prepared, but I get cold easily! When the sun came up I was mostly in my short sleeve top and windbreaker.

I just wore one layer on my lower body (hiking pants) and also packed a beanie (warm hat) and gloves.

It’s generally colder in November so I recommend being prepared with the 4 layers I had for your upper body.

Many thanks for this very detailed hike Carryn, I am planning this trip and en solo, so this one is really really helpful for me to figure out step-by-step up to the Laguna de los Tres, and also your recommendation of hiking this laguna rather than the other, since I was checking which one to take. I will go there mid-dec, so I hope the weather would be a bit warmer, but of course I will need to take enough clothes. A question: is that simple to rent and bring a camping gear at town, and it must be super cold at night up there? Many thanks again, and great post on this! Cheers Zuhy

Glad you found the post helpful. There are a few places to rent gear in El Chalten. These include Viento Oeste, Patagonia Hikes, BajoZero. Because you’re traveling in peak season, it’s best to contact them in advance to confirm they have the gear you need and can put it aside for you.

Have a great trip! Carryn

We’re planning to go to El Chalten on the first week of April. Do you know if the trek is still doable in April or is there possibly already snow or ice in the upper trails that would make it difficult/dangerous to do the last climb to the laguna?

Beginning of April is a a great time to visit as it’s the end of the season and the trail will be a lot quieter. It will be chilly in the evenings so pack an extra layer and be sure to check sunrise/sunset times as the sun sets a lot earlier than in the summer.

I am wondering what kind of shoes will I need. I am not a hiker, and find most hiking boots uncomfortable (not used to the weight and stiffness). The only ones that I liked were on cloud cloudrock boots, but the reviews say they don’t have any traction. How much traction do I need for this hike? Will I be okay lol? Thanks!

I totally get you! I used to walk in hiking boots (which I hated) and after getting a pair of trail shoes, I’ve never looked back.

For Laguna De Los Tres, I recommend having a pair of shoes with some sort of traction. This is because the last section has a lot of loose rock. Some people do the hike in regular trainers though. While this isn’t ideal, it’s not a deal breaker. But I did see a lot of people wearing Cloudrock boots and they had no problems. I’ve just had a quick look and it seems they do have traction.

I hiked in these Hoka One Trail Shoes . From the pictures, you’ll see the sort of traction they had. I absolutely love them and wear them all the time (not only when hiking).

Hope that helps!

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two lost feet

Hiking in El Chalten: Fitz Roy Trek, Cerro Torre & more amazing trails

Two Lost Feet

• April 14, 2019

A Hiking Guide to Cerro Fitz Roy  (Luguna De Las Tres)  & El Chalten.

Hiking in El Chalten  in  Argentinian   Patagonia  is an unforgettable experience. Some of the treks here include the famous  Cerro Fitz Roy  Trek, Cerro Torre and the  Huemul Circuit . These are some of the best trails in all of Patagonia, only rivaled by the O trek in Torres Del Paine .   Hiking Cerro Fitz Roy and others  in El Chalten is remarkably easy to organise. All of the hikes leave from the town center and don’t require any transportation other than your own legs to reach. And best of all they are free and don’t require any bookings. There are also numerous hikes to suit everybody. No matter your experience or ability. That is why  El Chalten is known as the trekking capital of Argentina.

A Hiking Guide to El Chalten – the best easy day hikes

• Los Condores  |  2 hours  |  easy
• Chorrillio Del Salto  |  3 hours  |  easy
• Mirrador del Torre  |  3-4 hours  |  easy

A Hiking Guide to El Chalten – the Best Longer Day hikes

• Laguna Capri  |  4-5 hours  |  easy
• Cerro Fitz Roy  Trek (Luguna De Las Tres)  |  7-9 hours  |  moderate
• Cerro Torre Hike (Laguna Torre)  |  6-8 hours  |  moderate 

Day 1 Cerro Fitz Roy Trek

Before leaving for any overnight hikes in El Chalten you need to register at the Visitors Center. After completing this, we left town around midday and then hiked the 4 kms to the first lookout – Laguna Capri. Here we were greeted with spectacular views of the Fitz Roy range. We had plenty of time, so we made some lunch and lazed in the sun before continuing on. It was only another hour of hiking before we arrived at camp – Camping Poincenot.

The campground is basic. There are a couple of long drop toilets and fresh drinking water is available from a nearby stream.

Wanting to make the most of the perfect weather, we decided to continue up to the Cerro Fitz Roy mirador that afternoon. Even though sunrise is what Fitz Roy is known for, we were glad that we didn’t waste the opportunity. Although the campsite was really busy, there were only two other people at the mirador along side us. We carried a pack with our cooker, things for dinner and a bottle of wine up with us and had an unforgettable dinner watching the sunset behind Cerro Fitz Roy. Afterwards we walked back down in the dark with head torches.

The trail to Fitz Roy leaves from the campground and it takes around 2 hours to walk the 3 km to the lookout as it very steep the whole way.

Day 2 Cerro Fitz Roy trek

We had original planned to see the sunrise at the Cerro Fitz Roy lookout. But because of the long daylight hours in Patagonia, we gave it a miss. If you do go up for sunrise I would recommend leaving your tent set up and packing it up after you return to camp. This will save you having to carry it all the way up and back down again, like we saw a lot of people doing.

We made our way to the next campground D’Agostini after a lazy morning sipping coffee and playing cards in the sun. For us it was an easy trail linking the two most popular day hikes in El Chalten. Coming from the other direction  would be tougher as there’s a lot more uphill. 

Only five minutes from the campground was the beautiful lake with Cerro Torre in the background. We spent the afternoon relaxing, enjoying the sun and the amazing view.

Day 3 Cerro Fitz Roy trek

On the third day we woke early for sunrise and planned to hike to the lookout. However, after a few people had mentioned to us that the view was actually better closer to the camp we decided to stay there. If you do walk all the way to the end you will get a better view of the glacier.

After a bit of breakfast we made our way back to El Chalten via the Mirador del Torre within a few hours.

Don’t feel like going alone to Cerro Fitz Roy

There are numerous tour companies and guides that you can book hikes with in El Chalten once you arrive. Or if you prefer to book in advance TourRadar is an online company that we recommend. They have lots of different options for every hiker and budget. 

Where to stay in el chalten

• If you are after a little bit of well-deserved luxury after hiking in El Chalten, try the beautiful Los Cerros Boutique Hotel
• A great high – mid range option is  Hosteria El Puma
• The best hostel in town is  Aylen-Aike and for the penny pinches the cheapest is Hostel del Lago
• Or if you have a vehicle that you can sleep inside of there is free camping opposite the National Park Visitors Center.

How to get to el chalten

The nearest airport is in El Calafate which is 220kms away. You can book bus tickets for this route only a couple of months in advance at Chalten Travel here  or if you are coming from  Buenos Aires and other major towns bus tickets can be found at BusBud here .

Buses in Patagonia can be very expensive so a lot of travellers will hitch hike. It can get very competitive with many backpackers looking for rides in small towns, so plan to leave early.

Cerro Fitz Roy – Before you leave home

We use  Travel Insurance Saver for our travel insurance. Trekking at high altitude is automatically included in all of their international policies.

Happy trekking.

Ruby & Josh

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A Hiker's Guide to Argentina's Fitz Roy

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Fitz Roy, the iconic mountain towering on the border between Argentina and Chile , sits amid glacial lakes as part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. Considered one of the most difficult peaks to scale, there are still ways to make it yours even if you’re a newbie – here’s everything you need to know.

How to get to fitz roy.

Fly from Buenos Aires to the town of Calafate in southern Patagonia – from there, take a three-hour bus (we recommend Chalten Travel ) to the tiny town of El Chalten, home base to Fitz Roy explorers. Expert tip: make sure you buy groceries and trekking food in Calafate, as prices skyrocket and selection is very limited in El Chalten. Also, check the weather beforehand – if the climate’s not in your favor, it’s better to wait things out in Calafate than in El Chalten. After all, who wants to sit on a bus for three hours in pouring rain and then be stuck in a small town with pretty much nothing to do if you can’t hike?

Exploring the mountain

The first thing to do is decide how long you want to hike for, and what you want to see. There are several main trails to choose from. One popular choice is the moderately challenging eight-hour round trip hike (take into account what time your bus gets you into El Chalten) that includes the mountain’s famous look-out point – follow the northern signs to Lago de los Tres -while another is an easier, six-hour hike to a beautiful mountain lake that involves following the southern signs to Laguna Torre. You can continue on that path up to a mountain glacier called Glacier Torre, but make sure you’re equipped for the cold if you do so.

The short version

If you only have one day, consider taking a shorter, lesser-known hike to Laguna Capri, which is about a three-hour round trip. To get there, follow the signs to Laguna Torre and take a right on the small path leading east to Laguna Capri (it will be marked and be in the direction of Camping Poincenot). After admiring the crystal-clear lake with Mount Fitz Roy in the background, you can continue heading east until the path re-joins another main trail (that of Lago de los Tres) heading up towards Fitz Roy – except in your case, you’ll head down the mountain, not up. Going back down the mountain this way gives you a lovely riverbed view and avoids retracing your steps.

There are several other hikes in the area, but those are the main ones. The maps you get at the national park office will show you all the options.

Guided tours

Once you’ve decided on the path for you, you’re ready to see Fitz Roy up close – though if you’re familiar with the clothing brand Patagonia, it won’t be your first time seeing it, as the mountain is their logo. If, however, you find the idea of striking out on your own a little intimidating, then hire a private bilingual guide like Lucia Fernandez ([email protected]) or Muti Blampied ([email protected]) for a more personalized experience than you’d get with a local tour agency.

Fernandez, who has worked as a certified guide in the area for three years, told Culture Trip that these trips can be life-changing. “Complete contact with nature is complete contact with oneself”, she maintains.

For more information about trekking the area, click here . For other adventures to have in Argentina, click here .

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Laguna de los Tres Hike: The View of Fitz Roy

El Chalten is known as the hiking capital of Argentina, and for a good reason. There are a plethora of hikes to choose from day hikes to multi-day treks. But there’s one hike that stands above them all, and that’s to Fitz Roy. The hike is called Laguna de los Tres and shouldn’t be missed when visiting this small town in Patagonia!

This hike shouldn’t be overlooked as it’s a tough one but if you’re up for the challenge, you won’t regret it.

In this guide, I’ll go over everything you need to know before setting off to hike Laguna de los Tres.

Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. I may earn a commission by clicking these links, which helps me create more free travel content for everyone. A win-win if you ask me!

Table of Contents

Why You Should Hike to Laguna de Los Tres

When arriving in El Chalten in Argentina , one of the first sights you’ll see (if it’s a clear day) is Mount Fitz Roy. This mountain can be seen almost anywhere in the beginning of town.

After seeing it for the first time, you’ll know that completing this hike is a MUST.

But seeing Fitz Roy from town just isn’t the same as being up close and person. Reward yourself afterward with one of the best meals in town at La Cervecería Chaltén .

Where is the Laguna de los Tres Trailhead?

The trailhead for the Fitz Roy hike is at the upper part of town. It’s along the same road with many of the restaurants to the North/Northwest.

This is also where the trail to Chorrillo del Salto Waterfall is located.

Once you start getting closer, you’ll realize that a lot of people walking in the same direction as you are also doing this hike. It is a small town, after all, but that’s what makes it so special.

You’ll start noticing the same people throughout your trip to Patagonia.

How to Get to Laguna de los Tres Hike

The beauty of visiting El Chalten in  Argentina  and trekking here is that all the hikes can be reached on foot, like  Laguna Torre .

It’s around a 25-minute walk from the bus station to the trailhead, but most likely, your accommodation will be slightly closer.

If you do end up wanting to drive to this trailhead because you  rented a car , then there’s a small parking lot as well.

Things to Know Before Hiking

When hiking in a foreign country, there are many questions that you may have. This trail is easy to follow and find. There will always be people hiking along it if you need any help or feel lost.

Below are some additional things I think you should know before hiking Laguna de los Tres to Fitz Roy.

Things to Bring

Patagonia is known for its huge mood swings of weather, and I wouldn’t change that for the world. It’s what makes this area unique. But it’s a good idea to come prepared.

During the peak season between the months of December to February, there will be warm weather, cold weather, and rainy weather. Here are some things I suggest bringing.

• Hiking Boots
• Grayl Water Filter
• Insect Rep ellent
• Patagonia Down Sweater

Camping at Laguna de los Tres

If you’re a true adventure seeker and are looking to camp near Fitz Roy, then you’ll want to look at the Poincenot Campground.

When doing this as a day hike from town, you’ll walk right through it on your way to the most difficult section of the hike.

This campsite is on a first-come, first-served basis. So if you want to wake up early to see the sunrise over the lake, I’d suggest not getting here too late.

From this campsite, it is around a one-hour hike to the top.

Entrance Fee

Traveling on a budget is hard, especially when visiting Patagonia. But one of the bright spots is El Chalten and not having to pay any money to hike in their national park.

No need to fret as you can certainly make El Chalten fit in your budget (maybe accommodation aside).

I know money does help keep everything running smoothly and keeps the place better for future generations. But sometimes you want to go out and hike without the worry of money, and El Chalten has that!

Best Time to Hike Laguna de los Tres

Patagonia is known for its unpredictable weather, but that’s also its beauty. That said, the best time to hike Laguna de los Tres if you want minimal rain and maximum sun is from December to March.

These are their “summer” months because this region is in the Southern Hemisphere. A website like Mountain-Forecast can help you plan your most important hike during a clear period.

Combining Laguna Torre with Laguna de los Tres

If you’re up for it, you can combine the Laguna Torre and Laguna de los Tres hikes. My suggestion is to start with Laguna Torre and then make your way to Fitz Roy.

If you’re thinking about doing this all in one day, keep in mind that the total for this loop is 43 kilometers or 27 miles. I’d suggest camping for a couple of nights, as this will allow for a more enjoyable experience.

Here is an example itinerary of that:

• Day 1 : Hike to Agostini Campground from El Chalten. Set up camp here and get ready to wake up in the morning to view Laguna Torres for sunrise.
• Day 2 : Wake up for sunrise and begin your trek to  Campamento Pointcenot . Head back down from Laguna Torre like you’re going back into town. Where there’s a bathroom, there’s a left turn. Take a left here and stay left until you reach Pointcenot.
• Day 3 : Wake up early and start the Laguna de los Tres hike to view Fitz Roy for sunrise. Afterward, hike back into town.

Is Laguna de Los Tres the Samething as Fitz Roy?

If you’re looking for a hike to see Fitz Roy, Laguna de los Tres is the hike. Laguna stands for “lake” in Spanish and it’s the lake below Mount Fitz Roy.

Unfortunately, we were about a week or two early for all of the ice to be melted over the lake. But that means we have to go back, right?

Is Laguna de los Tres (Fitz Roy) Hike Difficult?

This is one of the most difficult day hikes you can do in El Chalten, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. It’s very achievable to reach the top and for you to be able to see the stunning Fitz Roy.

There are steep and flat sections spread out amongst the trail, and the majority of the hike is easy. The last kilometer is straight uphill and can be quite difficult for some.

If you’re looking for an easier hike in El Chalten that still offers amazing views, check out the Mirador de los Condores hike.

Hiking Details for Laguna de los Tres (Fitz Roy)

• Distance:  This is a 13.7-mile out-and-back hike.
• Duration: On average, it will take people around 8 hours to complete this hike. This depends on how long you stay at the top.
• Difficulty:  I’d rank this hike as easy because of the minimal elevation gain.
• Incline : The elevation for this hike is around 3,503 feet or 1,067 meters.
• Hiking Guide:  A guide is not needed for this hike and is easily accessible by the public

Parking Lot at the Trailhead

If you decide to rent a car to explore Patagonia the best way possible, there’s a parking lot right at the trailhead that you can use.

There are a couple of other hikes in the area that have parking lots for use, too.

Adding Laguna Sucia to the Hike

If you’re feeling up for it, there’s another lake that you can venture to that’s close by. Laguna Sucia offers a different perspective of Fitz Roy and is normally quieter.

This will add a few miles to this hike, so be sure you consider this before making that decision!

Best Places to Stay in El Chalten

• Rancho Grande : This is one of the most popular hostels in the area. It’s large and has its own restaurant with a bar! I didn’t stay here, but we grabbed a couple of beers here and loved it!
• Kau Si Aike : Centrally located, this is an apartment that also comes with free breakfast! The place is clean and has some great mountain views.
• Destino Sur Hotel & Spa de Montaña : Looking for a more luxurious experience? Check out this lovely spa located near many fantastic restaurants!

My Experience

This was our last hike in El Chalten and as excited as we were to hike it, we were also a little sad. This small town in Patagonia is amazing, and I’ll definitely be back.

Arriving at the Trailhead

At this point, we had become accustomed to walking early in the morning to the different trailheads throughout town.

I’m not a big fan of starting a hike late, so we woke up at 6:30 am, packed lunch, ate breakfast, and went to the trailhead.

It wasn’t surprising to already see many people doing the same thing.

Laguna Capri

We decided to go to Laguna Capri before heading to Fitz Roy because we wanted multiple opportunities to get a good picture here.

The hike here wasn’t bad at all, and signposts are pointing you towards Laguna Capri if you want to do the same.

We decided to stop by on our way back again because as it was still beautiful views of the lake, there were still a few clouds around.

You’ll be following the same trail as everyone else until you see the signs that will have you taking a left.

It’s also possible to camp here but there aren’t as many spots as there are at Poincenot.

The Somewhat Easier Part

After Laguna Capri, the trail was more flat than anything. We were able to go fast while getting in a good rhythm. I think finding a good pace for yourself and sticking to it is one of the most important things for these longer, more challenging hikes.

Throughout this area, there are multiple opportunities for you to take photos of the surrounding area. We stopped multiple times to do so. If I went back, I’d probably stop even more!

Huge Incline Up

Once you see the signage pictured above, you’ll take a slight left turn. At this point, start preparing for a very steep incline up.

We knew we were getting closer and closer to Fitz Roy, but we didn’t know what to expect in this last section.

You can see in the pictures that there are many people climbing to the top. There are sections that you can go off to the side if you need to take a break. We did this multiple times.

Hiking poles help tremendously with this section, and I highly suggest renting a pair!

We were blown away when we arrived at Laguna de los Tres. Unfortunately for us, the lake was still frozen over but that gave us a different view of the area than most people will see.

There are hundreds of people here but the good thing is there isn’t a shortage of spots to sit. At the top, there will be a lot of rocks and big boulders that you can sit on and eat your lunch.

This gives you a view down towards the lake with Fitz Roy in the background. I wanted to get closer to the lake, so I hiked a little more down and got a closer look.

Some people were walking on the lake, but I wouldn’t suggest this as it’s probably a pretty thing during this time period (December), given that just a couple of weeks later, all the ice was gone.

Final Thoughts

I still can’t believe I had the opportunity to visit El Chalten and see Mount Fitz Roy. This hike is something that should be on every hiker’s bucket list. It’s that special. The hike might be difficult for some but if you take breaks, you can make it. My suggestion is to start as early as possible to avoid the crowds and increase the likelihood of you completing this hike.

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Mt. Fitz Roy: The Most Beautiful Trek in Patagonia

• Hiking boots are a must especially ones that give good support to your ankles. Ideally they should be waterproof.
• Hiking pants for comfortable movement and to keep the cold out, preferably waterproof.
• A fleece jacket in case the weather turns cold.
• Wind proof jacket
• A hat or cap to protect your head from the sun’s rays.
• Thermal wear and cotton t shirts to absorb sweat.
• Packed food and water bottle
• Hand sanitizer and tissues
• An extra bag to hold waste like used tissues, etc.
• Apart from these basic requirements, be safe and travel with others, never alone. In case of an accident help will be at hand.
• The best way to get to Fitz Roy is to fly to Buenos Aires and on to the town of Calafate. Take a bus to El Chalten, the small village that is the base for treks to Fitz Roy.

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