Full Day El Chalten - Desert Lake

General information

Destination	Category
Calafate, Argentina	Sightseeing Tours

Program details

Our day starts as we depart from El Calafate and head along the famous Route 40. This iconic highway goes along the Argentino Lake up to the La Leona River. Passing the 'Cañadón La Leona' we will arrive to the ancient route hotel ""La Leona"". It is here where you will be able to have a break for coffee and cakes.


Once the break is over we will continue along the Lake Viedma, from here we can take in the magical views of glaciers, hidden lakes and the glory that is Mount Fitz Roy. After several photos stops we will then arrive to Andean village El Chalten, also known as the 'The Capital of the Trekking'. As soon as we arrive we will briefly visit the Interpretation Centre and then the group will be divided according their chosen option at our base - The Pudu Lodge.


We combine a one-hour trek with a 4x4 trip across the valley of De las Vueltas river. Enjoy a wide panoramic view of the Andes range. The course of De Las Vueltas river is often one of the preferred route for condors in their low flight East-West. If you are lucky you will be able to see them closely.


From here we will visit the cascades of De Las Vueltas river and the Lake of the Desert, hidden amongst lush forests amid a paradise of ancient trees, glaciers and streams. After which we will trek to the Huemul Lagoon and Glacier (optional) perched on the slopes of Mount Vespignani. The path starts at Lake of the Desert and goes up the left hand side of a stream that is coming down from Huemul Lagoon. It takes about 45 minutes to climb the 2km to the lagoon. On the way we will get some great views of the valley below and Mount Fitz Roy. Around 17:30 pm we will return with the rest of the group to the base to enjoy a delicious hot chocolate at Pudu Lodge.



Points of interest:

Take the famous route 40 from El Chalafate to El Chalten and do not miss the fantastic views of mount Fitz Roy

Admire stunning views of the valley of the De las Vueltas river, Lake of the Desert and the northern face of Mount Fitz Roy fom various viewpoints

Enjoy a 4x4 drive heading towards the Lake of the Desert in idyllic scenery




Meeting/pick-up point: Pick up at the hotel.

Duration: 13 hours.

Start/opening time:At 06:30am approx. Tuesday and Sunday (from November till March 14th) - Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday (from September 15th till October 14th and March 15th till April 30th).

Languages: English and Spanish.

Others: Please note that there are some hotels in the city that are not included in our pickup routes. If your hotel is not included, we will contact you to inform you of the closest pick up location. We ask that you to wait for the guide at the lobby of the indicated hotel. Only adults (+12 years old).