Trekking to Laguna de los Tres from El Calafate: at the foot of Fitz Roy
The trekking to Laguna de los Tres It's the most famous hike in the Patagonia And now you can do it in a day, in Regular service from El Calafate. You will arrive at closest natural viewpoint to the walls of Mount Fitz Roy, within the Los Glaciares National Park, accompanied throughout the day by a certified trekking guide by National Parks.
The lagoon owes its name to the three peaks that surround it: he Fitz Roy, he Poincenot and the Saint Exupéry. Its turquoise waters at the foot of the massif are one of the most sought-after postcards of the Southern Patagonia.
Unlike the classic trail that starts from the village, this variant begins in the Electric River Bridge and returns for Capri Lagoon: is a crossing, not a round trip, and it adds up to Piedras Blancas Glacier Viewpoint to the route.
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About the tour
Trekking itinerary to Laguna de los Tres
The day begins early in the morning with the pickup of passengers who opted for the transfer option, taking them from their hotel in El Calafate to El Chaltén. During the journey, we make a stop at the historic Parador La Leona for breakfast and restrooms before continuing our trip to the National Capital of Trekking.
Pick-up by the hotel
Parador La Leona
Electric River Bridge
Piedras Blancas Glacier Viewpoint
Laguna de los Tres
Capri Lagoon and descent
Return to El Calafate
Included in the TourOptional transfer serviceStop at Parador La Leona
Located on the legendary Route 40, Parador La Leona is much more than just a roadside stop. With a history dating back to the early 20th century, this establishment has witnessed the passage of travelers, muleteers, and explorers across the Santa Cruz steppe. Here we make a pit stop for breakfast and to stretch our legs before the final leg to El Chaltén.
Meet the guide and depart from the Electric River Bridge
Upon arriving in El Chaltén, we met the trekking guide authorized by Los Glaciares National Park, who accompanied us throughout the hike. We continued by vehicle to the Río Eléctrico Bridge, the starting point of the trail. This alternative route avoids the initial ascent from the town and allows us to add the Piedras Blancas Glacier viewpoint to the hike.
Lenire forest and Piedras Blancas Glacier viewpoint
From the bridge, we begin our hike along a trail surrounded by the characteristic Patagonian forest of ñire trees, gradually ascending until we reach the Piedras Blancas Glacier viewpoint. There, we pause to admire its icefalls, moraines, and the rock walls that frame it.
Poincenot Camp and Río Blanco
We continued towards the Poincenot camp and then on to Río Blanco, the historic base for expeditions to Fitz Roy. From this point begins the most demanding section of the day: the final ascent to Laguna de los Tres. It's barely a kilometer long, but it involves a 400-meter climb over loose rock, reaching an altitude of 1,170 meters.
Arrival at the Laguna de los Tres
Upon reaching the summit, we find ourselves facing one of Patagonia's most breathtaking landscapes: Laguna de los Tres and the imposing walls of the Fitz Roy massif plunging directly into the water. There, we have time to rest, enjoy our packed lunch, and admire the scenery before beginning the descent.
Descent through Laguna Capri
The return journey takes us once again through the landscapes of Los Glaciares National Park, passing by Laguna Capri and its panoramic views before ending the trek in El Chaltén.
Free time in El Chaltén and return
Once in the village, we have approximately 45 minutes of free time to rest, explore its streets or enjoy one of its traditional cafes and breweries before starting the return journey to El Calafate.
Transfer options
With transfer: We pick up passengers from their hotel in El Calafate and return them to the same location at the end of the day. If they are not staying at a hotel or hostel, a convenient meeting point will be assigned. Without transfer: The passenger arrives in El Chaltén on their own at the indicated time, where they join the group and the trekking guide. The option to add transportation is available more than 7 days in advance of the chosen date.
Important before booking
Hiking boots, a backpack with water, and everything else you need for a safe and comfortable hike to Laguna de los Tres are essential. Casual shoes are not permitted.
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Info to keep in mind
Everything you need to know before going up to Laguna de los Tres
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Tour Details
Duration
Full day of 16 hours from El Calafate, of which 8 to 9 hours are actual walking.The pickup time at your hotel may vary by up to 30 minutes.Difficulty level
High difficulty. The total distance is 24 to 25 km (12 km per section), with an accumulated positive elevation gain of 800 to 900 meters and a maximum altitude of 1,170 m above sea level.Good physical condition and prior experience in full-day mountain hikes are required. The last kilometer involves approximately 400 meters of elevation gain over loose rock and is the most demanding section of the day. The route is not wheelchair accessible and is not adapted for people with reduced mobility.Age
Tour available from age 14.Participation is not recommended for pregnant women, people with cardiovascular or respiratory diseases, or people with reduced mobility. Minors under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a responsible adult. -
Recommendations
Dress in comfortable, warm clothing, preferably in layers, and include a waterproof jacket, gloves, hat, and scarf to protect yourself from the Patagonian wind. Trekking boots are mandatory for a safe and comfortable experience. We also recommend bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, a water bottle, and a small backpack for your belongings. You can purchase a packed lunch from us when you book or bring your own.
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Includes
- Trekking guide authorized by Los Glaciares National Park throughout the hike.
- Trekking poles.
- Transfer to and from your hotel in El Calafate: optional service, is added when booking.
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Does not include
- Food and drinks. There are no shops along the trail, so you'll need to bring your own food and water for the entire day. You can buy the food from us when you book or bring your own.
- Municipal tax of El Chaltén.
- Entrance to Los Glaciares National Park. Get your ticket in advance here.
This tour requires the entrance to Los Glaciares National Park (not included). If you visit the park two consecutive days, you can get 50% discount on your second deposit presenting your ticket from the previous day. For 3-4 day itineraries, the Flexipass 3 days saves up to $45.000 vs. buying daily tickets.
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Climatic Conditions
- The trek is done in light rain or overcast skies: Fitz Roy is usually covered by clouds and that's part of Patagonia.
- The route is suspended or modified in case of strong winds, heavy snowfall, or hazardous conditions on the trail, always at the discretion of the authorized guide.
- If conditions do not allow for completing the final ascent, the guide may decide to continue the route to a safe point. The guide's decision is final and is based on the safety of the group.
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Tour El Chaltén + Laguna de los Tres
The Laguna de los Tres trek is the most emblematic hike in Southern Patagonia, and with this regular departure you can do it in a day from El Calafate, with a certified guide and transfers arranged.
Reserve your spot and climb to the viewpoint closest to Fitz Roy
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Frequently Asked Questions
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How long does it take to get to Laguna de los Tres?
The complete hike takes 8 to 9 hours of actual walking time, within a total day of 16 hours including travel to and from El Calafate. The route covers 24 to 25 km with 800 to 900 meters of accumulated elevation gain. The most demanding section is the last kilometer of the ascent from Río Blanco, where approximately 400 meters of elevation gain are concentrated.
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Why is it called Laguna de los Tres?
It owes its name to the three peaks that surround it: Mount Fitz Roy, Poincenot, and Saint Exupéry. From the shore of the lagoon, all three can be seen aligned above the turquoise water.
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Where is the Laguna de los Tres located?
It's located in Los Glaciares National Park, in the northern part of the province, at the foot of the Fitz Roy massif and near El Chaltén, in the province of Santa Cruz. El Chaltén is 213 km from El Calafate via Route 40.
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Is it possible to visit Laguna de los Tres in a day from El Calafate?
Yes. This excursion is designed exactly for that: you leave your hotel in El Calafate early in the morning and return that same evening. It's a long 16-hour day, but you don't need to stay overnight in El Chaltén.
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Is the transfer from El Calafate included?
It's an optional service you add when booking. With the transfer option, we'll pick you up from your hotel in El Calafate and drop you off at the same location. With the option without transfer, you'll need to make your own way to El Chaltén. Transfers can be added up to 7 days before your chosen date.
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How difficult is the trekking?
High difficulty. It's a 24-25 km hike with 800-900 meters of accumulated elevation gain and takes 8-9 hours. The last kilometer climbs about 400 meters over loose rock. It requires good physical condition and prior experience in mountain trekking. If this is your first long hike, you might want to check out the El Chaltén Full Day + Viewpoints tour.
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What footwear do I need?
Trekking shoes with good grip and ankle support are mandatory. Casual sneakers, flip-flops, or shoes with smooth soles are not permitted. Trekking poles will be provided.
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Does it include lunch or lunch box?
Lunch is not included in the tour price, but you can purchase it from us when you book. If you prefer, bring your own. In either case, you'll need enough water for the entire day, as there are no places to buy water along the trail. We'll eat lunch at the lagoon before starting the descent.
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From what age can it be done?
Ages 14 and up. Those under 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Not recommended for pregnant women or people with cardiovascular or respiratory conditions.
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What happens if Fitz Roy is covered by clouds?
The trek proceeds as planned. The Patagonian weather is changeable, and the mountain range often clears and becomes overcast several times a day. The route is only modified or canceled due to hazardous conditions, at the guide's discretion.
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See Terms and Conditions
Which one to choose? Compare the ways to see El Chaltén in a day
El Chaltén is 213 km from El Calafate via Route 40
| Laguna de los Tres | Chalten + Viewpoints | Chaltén Full Day Free | |
|---|---|---|---|
| ⏱ Duration | 4 PM | 12hs | 12hs |
| 🥾 Trekking level | High · 24-25 km and 800-900 m of elevation gain | Medium difficulty · 1 hour to the Condor Viewpoint | Free · you decide |
| 🗣 Guide included | Yes, I am a certified trekking guide. | Yes, bilingual guide | No |
| 🍽 Meal | Optional lunch · you buy it from us | Lunch at Rancho Grande | Vianda box lunch |
| 🎯 What to visit | Piedras Blancas + Laguna de los Tres + Capri | Condor Lookout + Waterfall Waterfall | Village and trails of your choice |
| 👥 Age | From age 14 | All ages | All ages |
| 🚐 Transfers | Optional | Including | Including |
| 💰 Price from | $195,000 ARS | $150,000 ARS | $150,000 ARS |
Which one is right for you?
Complement your trip
Laguna de los Tres is a 16-hour day trip and you'll be tired by the time you get back. Schedule these tours for other days:
Another day: step on the Perito Moreno ice with crampons for 1h30 guided by experts.
View tour →
Nativo Experience
Another day: 4x4 to the Walichu Caves and their 4,000-year-old cave paintings, with dinner and sunset over Lake Argentino.
View tour →
Todo Glaciares
Active rest: navigate between icebergs to Upsala and Spegazzini without walking.
View tour →
El Chaltén + Laguna de los Tres
$195.000 – $295.800Price range: $195.000 through $295.800
Patagonia's most famous day hike, starting from El Calafate. 24 km to Laguna de los Tres at the foot of Fitz Roy, with a guide authorized by the National Parks Service. High difficulty, suitable for ages 14 and up.









