Laguna de los Tres, Southern Patagonia Travel Guide

4.9 (2808)

Hike to the foot of Mount Fitz Roy and witness Patagonia's iconic skyline reflected in the pristine waters of Laguna de los Tres.

Laguna de los Tres, nestled at the foot of Mount Fitz Roy in Argentina's Los Glaciares National Park, is a stunning glacial lake and the most iconic viewpoint for the mountain. The challenging but rewarding hike to reach it offers unparalleled views of Fitz Roy and its surrounding peaks, making it a must-do for any Patagonia visitor.

A brief summary to Laguna de los Tres

El Chaltén, Santa Cruz Province, AR

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Laguna de los Tres.

Start the hike early (7-8 am) to avoid crowds and have ample time to complete the trek, especially during peak season.
Check trail conditions at the Visitors' Centre of Los Glaciares National Park before heading out.
Pack layers, including a waterproof jacket, as the weather in Patagonia is unpredictable and can change rapidly.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail.
Wear sturdy hiking boots, as the final ascent to the Laguna is steep and rocky.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi

Perito Moreno Glacier

Valdes Peninsula

Estancia La Peninsula

Argentino Lake

Explore Laguna de los Tres on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Laguna de los Tres, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

The Laguna de los Tres trailhead is located at the north end of El Chaltén, easily accessible from most accommodations within the town. From Avenida San Martín, simply follow the road as it turns into a dirt path leading out of town. The trail is well-marked and begins with a steep ascent. Follow signs for Laguna de los Tres/Fitz Roy. Note that as of October 2024, there is an entrance fee to access the trail. Tickets can be purchased online or at the access gate. The hike to Laguna de los Tres is approximately 22km round trip and takes 8-9 hours. There are no additional costs.
Public Transport

For those arriving from El Calafate, the most common way to reach El Chaltén is by bus. Several bus companies (Chaltén Travel, TAQSA, Caltur) operate daily services between El Calafate and El Chaltén. The bus journey takes approximately 3 hours. From the El Chaltén bus terminal, the Laguna de los Tres trailhead is a short walk. Bus tickets from El Calafate to El Chalten cost approximately AR$35,000 - AR$42,000 per person each way, plus a municipal tax of AR$2,000. A fee for using the El Chalten Bus Terminal is also required.

Discover more about Laguna de los Tres

Laguna de los Tres is the crown jewel of hiking destinations in El Chaltén, Argentina, famed as the nation's trekking capital. This breathtaking glacial lake sits almost directly at the base of the imposing Mount Fitz Roy, offering the closest accessible views of its granite walls and surrounding peaks like Poincenot and Saint-Exupéry. The name 'Laguna de los Tres' refers to these three prominent peaks visible from the shoreline.The hike to Laguna de los Tres is a challenging but ultimately rewarding experience, typically taking 8-9 hours round trip. The trail winds through diverse Patagonian landscapes, starting with a steep ascent offering panoramic views of the De las Vueltas River valley. It then levels out, passing through forests and alongside the Del Salto stream before arriving at the Poincenot and Río Blanco base camps. The final ascent is the most demanding, a steep, rocky climb over a moraine, but the stunning vista that awaits at the top makes it all worthwhile.Upon reaching the Laguna, hikers are greeted with an unforgettable sight: the turquoise waters of the lake reflecting the towering Mount Fitz Roy, often framed by glaciers and snow-capped peaks. The scene is particularly magical at sunrise when the granite walls are bathed in a fiery red glow. For those seeking even more dramatic views, a short walk along a marked trail to the left of Laguna de los Tres leads to the desolate beauty of Laguna Sucia and its hanging glaciers.While the hike can be undertaken year-round, the best time to visit Laguna de los Tres is between November and March, during the Patagonian summer. During these months, the weather is milder, and the trails are generally free of snow. However, it's essential to be prepared for unpredictable conditions, as the weather in Patagonia can change rapidly. Proper hiking gear, including sturdy shoes, layered clothing, and protection from the sun and wind, is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience.