The hike to Laguna de los Tres is one of the most iconic experiences in El Chaltén and a must-do adventure for anyone exploring Patagonia. Set at the foot of the majestic Mount Fitz Roy, this turquoise glacial lagoon offers one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in Los Glaciares National Park.
This is a self-guided, moderate-difficulty trek, taking around 8 to 9 hours to complete its 21 km. Its name refers to the three peaks that surround the lagoon: Fitz Roy, Poincenot, and Saint Exupéry, whose reflections shine on the water on clear days.
How to Get to Laguna de los Tres: Two Scenic Routes
1. From El Chaltén
The classic route begins right in town, at the Los Glaciares National Park trailhead. Shortly after starting, the path splits into two: One leads to the stunning Laguna Capri, offering incredible views of Fitz Roy, The other heads toward the Las Vueltas River viewpoint, with wide-open valley panoramas. Both paths merge again before continuing toward the base of Fitz Roy. This route covers about 10 km, passing through lenga forests, natural viewpoints, and landscapes dominated by the granite spires of the massif.
2. From Río Eléctrico (Road to Lago del Desierto)
The second option offers a quieter, more serene approach. About 17 km from El Chaltén, along the road to Lago del Desierto, lies the Río Eléctrico trail entrance. From here, the path leads to Laguna de los Tres through lush forest, with a stop at the beautiful Piedras Blancas Lagoon and Glacier. This route is slightly shorter—around 20 km in total—and generally less steep, making it a very enjoyable alternative.
The Best Way to Experience the Trek
A fantastic recommendation is to start from Río Eléctrico, reach Laguna de los Tres, and then return via the Laguna Capri route. This loop allows you to experience completely different landscapes: deep forests, glacial viewpoints, crystal-clear lagoons, and panoramic mountain vistas as you approach El Chaltén again. Laguna Capri is also an excellent spot to rest or take memorable photos of the Fitz Roy massif.
The Final Stretch
The last kilometer is the most challenging part of the entire trek. It involves a steep 400-meter elevation gain over loose rocks, and this section alone usually takes at least an hour to complete. It demands patience, steady pacing, and good footing. But once you reach the top, the reward is extraordinary: the full Fitz Roy massif towering right in front of you, with the radiant turquoise of Laguna de los Tres at its base and Laguna Sucia visible from the nearby viewpoint.
Best Time to Visit
The trekking season runs from October to April, with January and February offering the longest daylight hours and more stable conditions. In autumn, the forests turn golden and red, creating stunning scenery—but temperatures drop and weather becomes more variable. From May to September, winter brings snow and ice to the trails, making them more technical and sometimes unsafe. Some hikes remain possible with proper gear and local guide assistance, though many services (lodging, restaurants, travel agencies) have limited availability. The upside: fewer crowds and dramatic winter landscapes.
Trekking Tips for El Chaltén
- Wear comfortable, sturdy footwear suitable for uneven terrain.
- Dress in layers, as weather changes quickly in Patagonia.
- Avoid trekking in strong winds, rain, snow, or icy conditions.
- Always stay on marked trails.
- Plan your timing to return before dark.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the hike.
Visit Argentina with Us
The Fitz Roy Trek to Laguna de los Tres is more than a hike—it’s a true Patagonian milestone. From winding forest paths and glacial viewpoints to the unforgettable panorama of Fitz Roy rising above turquoise waters, this adventure captures the very essence of El Chaltén. It’s a journey that challenges you, rewards you, and stays with you long after you’ve left the trail.
If you’re dreaming of experiencing this incredible trek, we’d be delighted to help you make it happen. Explore our itineraries that include El Chaltén and the Fitz Roy Trek, and let us design a tailor-made journey through Patagonia’s most iconic landscapes.