Glaciar Huemul: A Hidden Patagonian Gem
Discover Glaciar Huemul: An easily accessible Patagonian glacier hike with stunning views of turquoise waters and the Fitz Roy massif.
Glaciar Huemul, nestled near El Chaltén in Argentinian Patagonia, offers an accessible and rewarding glacier experience. A relatively short hike leads to stunning views of a turquoise lagoon, the hanging glacier, and, on clear days, the majestic Mount Fitz Roy. It's a perfect half-day excursion for those seeking natural beauty away from the crowds.
A brief summary to Glaciar Huemul
- Rota, RP23, El Chaltén, Santa Cruz Province, AR
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear hiking shoes as the trail can be muddy or slippery, especially after rain.
- Bring cash for the entrance fee, as card payments may not be available.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as visibility of Fitz Roy depends on the conditions.
- Combine your visit with a boat trip or kayaking on Lago del Desierto for a full-day experience.
Getting There
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Shuttle
From El Chaltén, the most common way to reach Glaciar Huemul is by shuttle. Several companies offer daily departures to Lago del Desierto, where the trailhead is located. Book your seat a day in advance through your accommodation or at the Zona Austral offices. A roundtrip ticket costs approximately 25,000 ARS (around $23 USD as of 2025). The journey takes about 2 hours on unpaved roads.
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Car
If driving from El Chaltén, head north on Route 41 for 37 km (23 miles). The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours on a gravel road that winds along the Río de las Vueltas valley. Be cautious, as the road can be narrow and winding. Parking is available at the trailhead. From the parking area, it's a short walk to the kiosk where you pay the entrance fee.
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Walking
Once at the Glaciar Huemul trailhead, follow the well-marked path. Before setting off, you'll need to pay an entrance fee of 10,000 ARS (~$9 USD) per person at the kiosk. The trail is roughly 3 km (1.9 miles) roundtrip with an elevation gain of 215 meters (700 ft). The hike to the lagoon viewpoint takes about 1 hour. The trail passes through a Lenga forest and has some steep sections with ropes and handrails to assist with the climb.
Discover more about Glaciar Huemul
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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