[2025 Lago Argentino Department Attraction] Travel Guide for Cerro Torre (Updated Apr)

#2024TravelReview The small town of El Chalten is located in the Los Glaciares National Park, a World Heritage Site in Argentina. The whole town is surrounded by mountains and is a paradise for hikers. Although it is a small village with only about 300 people, it has an excellent geographical location. It is located on the eastern edge of the Patagonia Ice Field in South America. It is the best base for heading to Mount Fitz Roy and Mount Torre. There are a constant stream of hikers all year round. In 2014, it was voted second in the “Best cities in the world to know” by Lonely Planet. The Patagonia Plateau in South America is a dream destination for many travelers. Climbing the two mountains Cerro Torre (3,128 meters above sea level) and Fitz Roy (3,405 meters above sea level) makes dreams come true. Fortunately, we had good weather when we arrived in El Chaltén. According to the official website, the round-trip distance of Cerro Torre and Laguna Torre hiking trails is about 18 kilometers (more than 6 hours), and the signs are clear. I confirmed that my equipment was complete: hiking shoes (hard-soled shoes are needed for rocky areas), trekking poles, warm clothes, windproof jacket, lunch, snacks, and sunscreen, and then I began a different self-challenge. From the accommodation, head towards the outskirts of town near the intersection of Costanera Norte and Calle 12. You will see a long slope and after climbing up you will see the trailhead. The entire climb of 250 meters is concentrated in the first three kilometers; the latter part walks along the stream bed, where you can have a bird's eye view of the entire town and the streamside scenery. Patagonia is famous for its extremely strong winds. I encountered strong winds while traveling to the "Laguna Torre" (Laguna means "lake" in Spanish) and the Glacier Grande. The wind was so strong that I had to hold on to the rock wall with my hands to avoid being blown away. Haha 😄 I teased myself that I was not heavy enough and needed to eat more. People are never satisfied. They are afraid of the sun on sunny days and feel comfortable on cloudy days but dislike the lack of great scenery. The ice lake was about 100 meters below me, and the strong wind brought small stones. I hid behind the rocks 🪨 to avoid the wind. I finally walked to the ice lake with great difficulty. The wind was so strong that it was difficult to stand straight and take pictures 😓 The lake💦 would be much less beautiful without the reflection of the blue sky and white clouds. The snow-white mountaintops, the desert-colored icy lake, the glaciers and floating ice with a trace of blue light, seem to have walked into another time and space or another planet. No! No! This is the "Patagonia Plateau" which is very friendly and like a fairyland - alpine lakes, glaciers and mountain peaks towering into the clouds. 🏖️Transportation: One is public transportation bus (two buses a day), the other is renting a car and driving 🕰️Opening hours: open all year round, good time management and no dark 📍Address: Torre Peak is located in the Southern Patagonian Glacier in South America 🗓️Itinerary: Continue hiking to Fitz Roy the next day 💞Recommendation reason: It is easy to reach the top and you can touch and bite the floating ice on the ice lake

#holidayseason If you’re looking for a winter getaway that combines jaw-dropping landscapes, adventure, and cozy vibes, look no further than El Chaltén, Argentina’s trekking capital. Nestled in the heart of Patagonia, this charming mountain village is the perfect place to embrace winter in all its glory. 1. Snow-Capped Peaks and Untamed Beauty Winter transforms El Chaltén into a serene wonderland, with the rugged peaks of Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre draped in snow. The trails are quieter, offering a peaceful escape into untouched nature. Trekking in winter is an unforgettable experience, with breathtaking views of frozen lakes, towering glaciers, and snow-covered forests. For the ultimate adventure, don your crampons and explore the icy trails leading to Laguna de los Tres or Laguna Torre. 2. Adventurous Spirit, Less Crowds Unlike the busy summer months, winter in El Chaltén is a time of tranquility. You’ll have the trails and stunning vistas almost to yourself, creating a more intimate connection with Patagonia’s wild beauty. Winter activities like snowshoeing and ice trekking add a thrilling twist to the classic hiking experience. 3. Cozy Patagonia Charm After a day of snowy adventures, retreat to the warmth of a rustic lodge or charming café. Warm up with local specialties like empanadas or calafate berry liqueur, and swap stories with fellow adventurers by a roaring fire. El Chaltén in winter is a magical blend of adventure and serenity, offering a unique perspective of Patagonia that’s worth every frosty step. It’s not just a trip—it’s a memory in the making.

Patagonia, the trademark silhouette of the Patagonia brand originates from Argentina's El Chalten, featuring the peaks of Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre. Located about an hour and a half drive from El Calafate, El Chalten offers hiking trails of varying difficulty levels, making it the best spot to view these two peaks. Argentinian steaks and barbecues are very affordable, and enjoying them with crispy breadsticks and chunks is a great pleasure.