Trekking Laguna Torre: icebergs in front of Cerro Torre

Walk to the lagoon that opens up at the foot of Cerro Torre. It's one of the classic trails in El Chaltén and the best alternative for those looking for a full day of trekking without the demanding climb to Laguna de los Tres. The hike leaves the town, without prior transfers.

The route gradually delves deeper into the mountain landscape: native lenga forest, valleys, and waterways, with several panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Cerro Torre mountain range. The destination is Laguna Torre, where icebergs calved from the Glaciar Grande often float, with the granite spires in the background. 23 km and between 7 and 8 hours, with moderate difficulty.

• Itinerary

  Detailed itinerary of the excursion

  The day begins in the morning in El Chaltén, with a meeting with the guide at the designated meeting point. Unlike other excursions, no transfer is necessary: the trail starts with a walk from the town.

  Meeting in El Chaltén

  Between 08:00 and 09:00 at the meeting point

  Lenga forest and waterways

  First section leaving the town

  Cerro Torre viewpoint

  First panoramic view of the massif

  Glacial valley to Laguna Torre

  Glaciar Grande and icebergs in the lagoon

  Rest and lunch at the lagoon

  Time for photos and a break

  Return to El Chaltén

  Along the same path

  Included in the tour

  Meeting and closing point

  A path leading out of the village

  One of the unique features of El Chaltén is that the classic trails begin just meters from the last houses. Laguna Torre is no exception: there's no need for transportation or getting up too early. The hike gradually winds its way into the mountain landscape, crossing native forest, valleys, and waterways.

  Cerro Torre and its ice mushroom

  Several scenic viewpoints along the route offer views of the Cerro Torre mountain range. At 3,128 meters, it's lower than Fitz Roy, but its silhouette is even more dramatic: an almost vertical granite spire crowned by an ice mushroom formed by the Pacific's moisture. You can read more in our guide to the... Cerro Torre.

  Icebergs in the lagoon

  The destination is Laguna Torre, fed by the Glaciar Grande. It's common to find icebergs floating in the water, calved from the glacier's face. There's time to rest, eat your packed lunch, and enjoy the scenery before returning through the same valley. If you're looking for something more challenging, check out the trekking to Laguna de los Tres.

  The activity is subject to weather and operational conditions. The guide may modify the route for safety reasons. Cerro Torre is often shrouded in clouds; mornings usually offer better conditions.

• Info to keep in mind

  The guided trek to Laguna Torre is booked directly with us, local operators in El Chaltén, without intermediaries or online agency commissions. Entrance to Los Glaciares National Park is paid separately.Here's everything you need to know in detail:

  • Excursion details

    Duration

    7 to 8 hours

    23 km round trip, starting on foot from El Chaltén.

    Difficulty level

    Moderate

    Similar distance to Laguna de los Tres but without the final climb: it is much more accessible.

    Age

    From 12 years old

    Minors must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

    Season

    October 1st to April 15th

    Groups of up to 14 passengers.
  • Requirements and restrictions

    A moderate level of fitness and the ability to walk for several hours on uneven terrain are required. Not recommended during pregnancy or for people with knee or heart problems. Minimum age: 12 years.

  • Recommendations

    Trekking boots, layered clothing, waterproof and windproof jacket, hat and gloves even in summer, sunscreen and sunglasses, and enough water and food for the whole day.

  • Includes
    • Mountain guide.
    • Emergency communication equipment.
  • Does not include
    • Food, meals and drinks.
    • Urban use rate of El Chaltén.
    • Entrance to Los Glaciares National Park. Get your ticket in advance here.

    This excursion requires an entrance ticket to Los Glaciares National Park (not included). We recommend booking your ticket in advance. ventaweb.apn.gob.ar, because connectivity in El Chaltén is limited and disappears on the trails.

  • Climatic conditions
    • The excursion takes place in light rain or moderate wind. The route is suspended or modified in the event of strong winds or storms. that compromise the group's safety.
    • The guide may shorten the tour or change the return point for safety reasons, without this implying a refund.

Want to compare with other options? Find all the excursions in El Chaltén available in our catalog.