Summary
This is a wonderful experience that takes you into the hills directly behind El Calafate city. Seated in a large, sturdy 4 x 4 off road bus, the trip climbs the steep mountain to a plateau whereupon on a clear day there are views as far as Mount Fitzroy over at El Chalten, as well as to the source of the Perito Moreno Glacier.
Apart from the great views you will also receive an education about the amazing geographical features.
Half Day
- Operated: Between end of Sept to end of Mar
- Pick-Up: From your hotel in El Calafate
- Return: To your hotel in El Calafate
Excursion Departure Times
- AM Pick-up from your hotel: 10:00hrs / Return: 13:30hrs
- PM Pick-up from your hotel: 15:30hrs / Return: 18:30hrs
- PM Pick-up from your hotel: 18:30hrs / Return: 21:30hrs
Description
This is an excursion to see panoramic views and incredible rock formations. You will be transported in a large, off-road 4 x 4 truck, up the nearby Cerro Frias hill (or mountain) that forms a high geographical wall on the southern side of El Calafate, to a “balcony” (a plateau area) which is at a height of 1,050 metres above sea level (approx 3,000ft).
From here, if the day is clear, there is a panoramic view over El Calafate city, Argentino Lake, Mount Fitz Roy and the Torre Peak in El Chalten and the source of the Perito Moreno glacier as well as an opportunity to see some pre-historic fossils.
After taking in the views the next location to be visited is the “Laberinto de Piedras” (rock maze) formed over 85 million years ago. On the return journey the excursion will visit the “Piedras de los Sombreros” (Mexican-hat-shaped rocks) – a phenomenon, which will be explained, only seen in four locations around the world.
The excursion can also be extended by an hour to incorporate lunch (subject to demand) in a location surrounded by the outstanding natural beauty of Patagonia. However, apart from the stunning views, you will receive an informative explanation about how the various rock formations were created and a general history lesson about the incredible geography of the entire area.
There is also an option to ride quad bikes during the excursion - but for this please ask us first.
NOTE: Due to the altitude there are many places that have vertical drops close to where passengers get out of the vehicle. Those who suffer from vertigo should NOT consider this excursion and those who participate and go with children need to be fully aware that there are danger spots.
Backpack, outdoor trekking clothes (warm, waterproof and wind-breaker jacket, trekking pants (or trousers for the English), sturdy outdoor trekking boots, hat, sun glasses, lip balm, sun-screen cream, camera, water bottle and box lunch, unless you are planning to have lunch when you return.
Included
- Transfers in and out from your hotel in El Calafate.
- Sandwich and soft drink for the 10:00hrs excursion and coffee with biscuit (cookie) for the 15:00hrs excursion.
- The length of the traverse is about 35km from start to finish and the trip duration is about 2hr to 3hrs.
Not Included
- Lunch
Experience Chile offers this half-day excursion as part of your Patagonia itinerary subject to your request for it to be included.
