Declared a Patrimony of Humanity by UNESCO in 1981, the northern sector of Parque Nacional Los Glaciares is a hikers delight. Even better,the village of El Chalten is a short walk from some amazing sights, the two best being the Mt. Fitzroy massif and Cerro Torre, a needle like peak of 3,102m.
The advantage of course is not having to carry a heavy back pack and being able to return to the village at the end of a the day for a hot shower and a restaurant meal. For those willing to carry a tent circuits of several days can be completed.
Regardless, setting out early is best for photography of both Mt. Fitzroy and Cerro Torre. The paths are well marked and excellent views are reached after only a few hours walking.
This northern sector of Parque Nacional Los Glaciares has similarities to the more famous Torres del Paine National Park in Chile, and cheaper as there is no entrance fee.
The national park information centre is located 1km before the village. Here there are informative displays on the flora and fauna and the area's geoglogy. Buses stop at the centre and a ranger gives a short presentation on (English and Spanish) the Park, the practicalities of camping and trekking and park regulations.
How to Get ThereThe nearest airport is at El Calafate, 4 hours away by road. Buses leave regularly from the El Calafate's bus terminal. The various trails into the Park are a short walk from El Chalten township.
When to GoThe high season runs from November to March. At Easter many accommodation providers and mountain/trekking agencies close. However as many hikes can be done indepentley March, April and even May are good months to visit. Not only are the autumn colours beautiful but you share them with less people. On the other hand the high season is the time to climb peaks and trek on the Hielo Continental Sur, the biggest ice mass outside the poles.
Adventure ActivitiesBoat trips, horse riding, ice climbing, mountaineering and trekking activities are all available from agencies based El Chalten. See Fitzroy Expeditions website to get an idea of trip options
Glacier Excursions
Accessible from El Calafate, the southern sector of Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, is the impressively huge Perito Moreno glacier. From here there is also a boat excursion to see other big glaciers. For more information see here.
Trekking ConditionsPatagonian weather is extremely changeable and can snow at anytime and be very cold and wet. Ensure you have good quality wet weather jacket and pants as well as warm clothing. Also sun protection is essential.
El ChaltenThe village has grown rapidly due to it's popularity with trekkers and is undergoing a building boom. It's not particularly attractive, quite spread out and the roads are dirt but it has most of the services tourists need except for ATM machines or banks. A full range of accommodation is on offer as well as a wide choice of restaurants.
Information and MapsApart from the Park headquarters there is a tourist information office in town which has basic maps detailing the location of the trails. Also climbing trekking gear and guides can be hired.
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