For guests based in El Calafate this excursion will enable you an opportunity to visit the zone of El Chalten, which is 220km from El Calafate and takes about 3hrs to reach in the bus or private transfer (if requested). The village is primarily a trekkers destination, but it also offers incredible views, when clear, of dramatic mountain peaks.
We offer a full day excursions from El Calafate for those who either wish to trek or just take in the sights.
- Period: September – April
- Duration: 13 hours
- Pick-up: 07:00hrs / Return 20:00hrs
Description
Starting at 07:00hrs in El Calafate you will travel along Ruta 40, bordering Lake Argentino until you reach the River La Leona where, shortly afterwards the bus will stop at an historic and rustic hotel for a break.
After a coffee the trip continues along a stretch of road bordering Lake Viedma with the Andes in the background and, on a clear day, the peaks of Fitzroy and the Tower can be seen ahead.
Upon arrival to El Chalten there will be two options, depending which one has been pre-booked. These are described below.
Trekking
The trekking option will begin with a visit to the welcome centre, after which you will be taken to “Salto del Chorrillo” for a short, guided hike before returning back to El Chalten village. From El Chalten you will be directed to well-marked trails to one of the viewing areas of Mount Fitz Roy and Mount Torre (Laguna Capri, Laguna de los Tres, Madre e Hija). You will be given a trail map and a box lunch.
Soft Adventure and Glacier Viedma
After a visit to the welcome centre you will be taken to “Salto del Chorrillo” for a short, guided hike before returning back to El Chalten village. In El Chalten you will have free time to walk around and have lunch in a local restaurant or join a guided trek to the Estancia Madsen to a viewpoint of the Mount Fitzroy (box lunch provided). After lunch you will be taken to the port of Bahia Tunel for a 2-hour boat trip that passes in front of the Viedma Glacier.
The return journey starts at 17:00hrs to arrive back in El Calafate at 20:00hrs.
It is suggested to bring sunglasses, sunscreen protector cream, hiking boots, warm jacket and waterproof jacket.
Included
- Transport
- Guides
- Lunch (note, you need to advise us of any medical issue or dietary restriction you have at the time of reservation)
Note: Experience Chile offers this half-day excursion as part of your Patagonia itinerary that we will have arranged, but not as a standalone.
