Adventure in El Chaltén: rafting, kayaking and ice trekking
Excursions that are not walking
El Chaltén is known for its trails, but it has three activities that completely change the experience: the rafting on the Río de las Vueltas with Class III rapids, the kayaking in calm waters and the Ice Trek to the Cagliero Glacier, which is the only ice trekking in the area. They range from easy to the most comprehensive day trip you can do here.
Rafting on the Río de las Vueltas
16 km descent down the Río de las Vueltas, with stretches of calm waters in front of Fitz Roy and class III and III+ rapids in the canyon.
Ice Trek Cagliero Glacier
The only ice trek in El Chaltén: Patagonian forest, via ferrata and crampon hike on the Cagliero Glacier, in the Los Huemules Reserve.
Kayaking on the River of Turns
Half a day of kayaking on the calm waters of the Río de las Vueltas, with 12 km of paddling in front of Fitz Roy and a country brunch halfway through the trip.
The three, compared
| Rafting | Ice Trek Cagliero | Kayak | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total duration | Half day · 4.5 h | Full day · 8 hours | Half day · 5 h |
| Difficulty | Medium | Medium-high | Low |
| Age | 16 to 65 years | Consult | 12 to 70 years |
| What are you doing | 16 km of river with class III and III+ rapids | You walk on a glacier with crampons, with a via ferrata for access. | 12 km paddling with Fitz Roy in front |
| Ideal profile | Adrenaline in half a day | The most complete adventure of the destination | Adrenaline-free landscape |
| Transfer | Operation included | Including | Including |
| Price from | $220,000 ARS | Check availability | $220,000 ARS |
Which one to choose?
Ice Trek Cagliero: the only trek on ice
The most comprehensive day trip El Chaltén has to offer. You enter the Los Huemules Reserve, A private reserve north of the town, the route crosses Patagonian forest, climbs a section of via ferrata to the viewpoint, and then hikes with crampons on the Cagliero Glacier. It takes 8 hours and is of medium-high difficulty. As a bonus, from there you can see the north face of the massif, an angle that most visitors never see.
Rafting on the Río de las Vueltas: adrenaline in half a day
Descent of 16 kilometersIt starts with calm stretches in front of the Fitz Roy and finishes with Class III and III+ rapids inside the canyon. Half day, medium difficulty, ages 16 to 65. No prior experience necessary: there is a safety briefing and all equipment is provided.
Kayak Río de las Vueltas: the same river, without rapids
12 kilometers rowing in calm waters With the mountain range in front of you, and a picnic brunch halfway through. Low difficulty, suitable for ages 12 to 70. It's the opposite of rafting: same scenery, same river, but with time to admire the scenery instead of struggling to stay afloat. It works well for those who want to be on the water without the adrenaline rush.
Book your adventure
Rafting on the Río de las Vueltas
Half day · 16 km · Class III and III+ rapids · Ages 16 to 65
What to bring
- For rafting and kayaking: Bring a complete change of clothes, a towel, and shoes that can get wet. The wetsuit, life jacket, and helmet are provided by the operator.
- For Ice Trek: Rigid trekking boots are essential, because crampons attach over your own shoes. You can't climb ice in regular sneakers.
- Layered clothing and a windbreaker: The temperature feels much lower on the river and on the ice.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses with cord: The reflection of the water and ice is intense even on cloudy days.
- Hat and gloves: For Ice Trek, essential all year round.
When to go
The season is about October to mid-April. Rafting and kayaking depend on water flow and wind, and Ice Trek depends on glacier conditions: all three can be rescheduled due to weather, so it's best not to leave them until the last day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to walk on a glacier in El Chaltén?
Yes, with the Ice Trek to the Cagliero Glacier, This is the only ice trek in the area. It takes place within the Los Huemules Reserve, with guides, crampons, and helmets provided. It's an 8-hour trek of medium-high difficulty.
Is experience necessary for rafting?
No. There is a safety briefing before boarding, and the guide is on the raft giving instructions. The rapids are Class III and III+, the age limit is 16 to 65 years, and all equipment is provided: wetsuit, life jacket, and helmet.
What is the difference between rafting and kayaking?
It's the same river, but a different experience. Rafting is 16 km with Class III and III+ rapids, of medium difficulty. Kayaking is 12 km on calm waters, easy difficulty, and includes a picnic brunch halfway through. If you want scenery without the adrenaline rush, go for kayaking.
What is the Los Huemules Reserve?
A private reserve bordering the Los Glaciares National Park, North of the town. It has its own access system, which is included in the Ice Trek activity. From there you can see the north face of the Fitz Roy massif.