Laguna Esmeralda, Patagonia Travel Guide

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Discover the turquoise beauty of Laguna Esmeralda, a stunning glacial lagoon near Ushuaia offering a moderate hike through Tierra del Fuego's wilderness.

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Laguna Esmeralda

Laguna Esmeralda, or Emerald Lagoon, is a stunning glacier lake near Ushuaia, Argentina, famed for its turquoise waters and breathtaking Patagonian scenery. A moderate 9km hike through lenga forests and peat bogs leads to this serene spot nestled among rugged peaks, offering a rewarding experience for nature lovers.

A brief summary to Laguna Esmeralda

Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego Province, AR
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From Eve

Know before you go

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

Wear waterproof hiking boots as the trail can be very muddy, even in summer.
Check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for changing conditions.
Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak season.
Bring water and snacks as there are no services along the trail.
Consider visiting between late October and early March for the best weather.

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Explore Laguna Esmeralda on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Laguna Esmeralda, mapped for you.

Getting There

Shuttle Bus

The most affordable and convenient way to reach the Laguna Esmeralda trailhead from Ushuaia is by shuttle bus. Several companies operate from the station opposite Ushuaia's bus terminal. A round-trip ticket costs approximately 500-600 ARS. Shuttles depart in the morning with return options in the afternoon. Purchase tickets on the spot or in advance.
Taxi

A taxi or private transfer from Ushuaia to the Laguna Esmeralda trailhead offers a direct and comfortable option. The ride takes about 20-25 minutes. A one-way trip costs approximately $30-50 USD. Some taxi drivers may offer a round-trip service, waiting for you at the trailhead for an additional fee. Expect to pay around 12,000 ARS for a round trip with a 4-hour wait.
Driving

If you have a rental car, driving to the Laguna Esmeralda trailhead is a flexible option. The drive from Ushuaia takes about 20-25 minutes, mostly on paved roads, with the last section on a well-maintained gravel road. Parking is available at the trailhead. There is no entrance fee to access Laguna Esmeralda, but as of November 2021, there was a fee of 560 ARS to enter Tierra del Fuego National Park. However, Laguna Esmeralda is located outside the boundaries of the park, so this fee may not apply.

Discover more about Laguna Esmeralda

Laguna Esmeralda is a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts visiting Ushuaia, Argentina. This stunning glacial lagoon, located approximately 20 km (12 miles) east of Ushuaia, lies within the Valle Tierra Mayor Natural and Landscape Reserve. The lagoon's mesmerizing turquoise color comes from the sediment originating from the Ojo del Albino Glacier. The best time to visit is during the summer months (late October to early March) when the weather is milder and the days are longer, though visitors should still be prepared for unpredictable conditions.The hike to Laguna Esmeralda is a moderate 9 km (5.4 miles) round trip that typically takes 4-5 hours to complete. The trail begins in Valle de Los Lobos, accessible via Ruta 3, and is well-marked with blue signs. The path winds through a lenga forest, crosses peat bogs (now with boardwalks to protect the delicate ecosystem), and eventually opens up to the breathtaking view of Laguna Esmeralda surrounded by the Albino Glacier and the peaks of Las Torres and Cordón Toribio.While the hike is not particularly strenuous, the terrain can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain or snowmelt, so waterproof hiking boots are essential. The trail is popular and can get crowded, especially during peak season, so arriving early is recommended. Remember to pack water, snacks, and layers of clothing, as the weather in Tierra del Fuego can change rapidly.