Mount Fitz Roy: A Hiker's Paradise in Patagonia

Hike to the base of the iconic Mount Fitz Roy in Patagonia for breathtaking views of glaciers, turquoise lakes, and rugged peaks. A challenging and rewarding trek.

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Mount Fitz Roy, also known as Cerro Chaltén, is an iconic mountain peak in Patagonia, Argentina, near the village of El Chaltén. Renowned for its challenging climbs and stunning beauty, it attracts hikers and climbers from around the world. The most popular trek leads to Laguna de los Tres, a glacial lake at the mountain's base, offering breathtaking views.

A brief summary to Fitz Roy

Local tips

Start your hike early to avoid crowds and have the best chance of clear views, as the mountain tends to cloud over as the day progresses.
Be prepared for unpredictable weather; pack layers, including waterproof and windproof gear, regardless of the season.
Book campsites in advance, as reservations are now required at popular campgrounds like Poincenot and Laguna Capri.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited opportunities to purchase supplies along the trail.
Consider hiking poles to help with the steep ascents and descents, especially on the final stretch to Laguna de los Tres.

Getting There

Walking

The most common way to approach Mount Fitz Roy is by hiking from the village of El Chaltén. The trailhead is located at the north end of Avenida San Martín. From the center of El Chaltén, walk north on Avenida San Martín until you reach the clearly marked Sendero al Fitz Roy sign and a large parking lot. The hike to Laguna de los Tres is approximately 21.4 km (13.3 miles) round trip and takes 8-10 hours to complete. *Note: As of November 2024, there is an entrance fee to access the trails in El Chalten. For international visitors, a day pass costs $45,000 ARS (approximately $45 USD). Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the park gate. There are three portals where they check tickets active from 07h00 to 20h00.*
Bus

To reach El Chaltén, take a bus from El Calafate, where the nearest airport is located. Several bus companies offer daily services, with a journey time of approximately 3 hours. A one-way ticket costs around 20 EUR/22 USD. From the El Chaltén bus station, the trailhead for Mount Fitz Roy is a short walk north on Avenida San Martín. *Note: As of November 2024, there is an entrance fee to access the trails in El Chalten. For international visitors, a day pass costs $45,000 ARS (approximately $45 USD). Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the park gate. There are three portals where they check tickets active from 07h00 to 20h00.*

Discover more about Fitz Roy

Mount Fitz Roy, towering at 3,405 meters (11,171 feet), is a majestic symbol of Patagonia's raw beauty. Located within Los Glaciares National Park, near the village of El Chaltén, Argentina, it presents a formidable challenge to climbers and a rewarding experience for hikers. The mountain's jagged silhouette, often shrouded in clouds, has inspired the Patagonia brand's logo and countless adventurers. The most popular trail is the trek to Laguna de los Tres, a stunning turquoise lake nestled at the foot of Fitz Roy. This challenging day hike, approximately 21.4 km (13.3 miles) round trip, rewards hikers with panoramic views of the mountain, the surrounding glaciers, and the pristine lake. The final ascent to the Laguna is steep and rocky, requiring stamina and proper gear. El Chaltén, a small village established in 1985, serves as the main base for exploring Mount Fitz Roy and the surrounding area. Known as Argentina's trekking capital, it offers various accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to comfortable hotels. The village is easily accessible by bus from El Calafate, the nearest airport. The weather around Fitz Roy is notoriously unpredictable, with strong winds, sudden rain, and fluctuating temperatures. It's essential to be prepared for all conditions, even during the summer months (December to February), which offer the most favorable weather for hiking. Camping is a popular option for those wanting to experience Fitz Roy at sunrise or sunset. Campgrounds like Poincenot and Laguna Capri offer basic facilities and stunning views. However, reservations are now required and must be booked in advance. While the hike to Laguna de los Tres is the most well-known, other trails in the area offer equally impressive scenery. The trek to Laguna Torre, with views of Cerro Torre, is another popular option. Multi-day treks combining both Laguna de los Tres and Laguna Torre are also possible.