El Chaltén, Argentina: travel guide
Argentina's trekking village at the foot of Mount Fitz Roy
Argentina's trekking capital at the base of Mount Fitz Roy — world-class hiking trails, epic granite spires, and authentic Patagonian wilderness.
About El Chaltén
El Chaltén is a small mountain village in Santa Cruz province, founded to serve the granite spires of the Fitz Roy massif. There is little here except trailheads, cafes and lodging, and the whole point is to be out on the paths within minutes of leaving your door.
The classic walks lead to Laguna de los Tres at the foot of Mount Fitz Roy, and to Laguna Torre beneath Cerro Torre. Shorter options include viewpoints above the valley, so a day pass of any ambition is possible. The weather is changeable and the wind can be fierce.
It suits hikers of all levels. The best time to visit El Chaltén is during the Patagonian summer, from about November to March.
- Country
- Argentina
- Currency
- ARS
- Time zone
- America/Argentina/Rio_Gallegos
Last updated
Top places to visit in El Chaltén
Mount Fitz Roy Trek
Nature · 4.9 rating · about 8 h · check the fee at the gate
World-class trekking to the granite spire of Cerro Fitz Roy (3,405 m) — the Patagonia brand logo, free day hikes through lenga beech forests to Laguna de los Tres glacial lake.
Things to do
- Laguna de los Tres Trek (Fitz Roy) Adventure · 8 h
Day trips and tours
- Fitz Roy Laguna de los Tres Full Day 10 h · from 32,000
Where to stay in El Chaltén
- Village about ARS 9,000 per night
Argentina's trekking capital. All hotels and hostels are in the single village. Book months ahead in Dec–Feb.
Hotels
- Hostería El Pilar 3-star · ARS 18,000 to ARS 48,000 per night
Where to eat
- Patagonicus argentinian, pizza, parrilla · about ARS 4,000 per person
Getting to El Chaltén
Nearest airport: El Calafate (FTE), about 121 km away in a straight line. The road or rail journey is longer.
Getting around
- Bus
- Car Rental Self
- Walking