Trekking Loma del Pliegue Tumbado: the 360° view of El Chaltén

The only trail from which you can see Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre at the same time. Unlike hikes that go deep into the valleys, this one gradually gains altitude until it reaches one of the great natural viewpoints in the area: a 360-degree panorama over the Fitz Roy Massif, Cerro Torre, the glaciers, the Río de las Vueltas Valley and the steppe.

The ascent passes through lenga forests until the landscape opens up on the hillside. 20 km and about 1,000 meters of elevation gainOne of the most comprehensive scenic hikes in the area, and also one of the most challenging. It starts directly from the town, with no transfers required.

• Itinerary

  Detailed itinerary of the excursion

  The day begins at 8:00 AM in El Chaltén. Like the other classic trails, it starts with a walk from the town: there is no prior transportation. The ascent is gradual and sustained for much of the route.

  Meeting in El Chaltén

  08:00 at the meeting point

  Ascent through lenga forest

  Approximately 2 hours of sustained ascent

  Open mountain sectors

  The landscape opens up: first views of Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre

  Summit of Loma del Pliegue Tumbado

  360° view and lunch

  Descent along the same path

  I walk back to the village

  Arrival at El Chaltén

  Included in the tour

  Meeting and closing point

  Gain altitude instead of going deeper into the valley

  The classic trails of El Chaltén lead to the foothills: Laguna de los Tres to Fitz Roy, Laguna Torre to Cerro Torre. Loma del Pliegue Tumbado does the opposite: it veers away and gains altitude, and therefore offers something no other trail provides.

  The only 360-degree view

  From the summit you can see at the same time the Fitz Roy Massif, he Cerro Torre, The hanging glaciers, the Río de las Vueltas Valley, and the Patagonian steppe. It's the most complete panoramic view of the destination and the reason why many photographers choose this trail over the classic ones.

  A requirement that should be taken seriously

  It's about 20 km with 1,000 meters of accumulated elevation gain. It doesn't have the concentrated final climb to Laguna de los Tres, but the ascent is sustained for a good part of the route. Prior mountain experience is recommended. If you're looking for something easier, check out the Half-day trek to Laguna Capri.

  The appeal of this trail lies in the view, so it's more dependent on the weather than other hikes: with the hill covered in clouds, the main attraction is lost. It's best to reserve it for a day with good weather forecasts and allow some flexibility in your itinerary.

• Info to keep in mind

  The guided trek to Loma del Pliegue Tumbado can be 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

    Approximately 8 hours

    Departure at 08:00, walking from El Chaltén.

    Distance and elevation difference

    20 km · +1,000 m

    The climb is sustained for a good part of the route.

    Difficulty level

    High

    Good physical condition and previous mountain experience are recommended.

    Age

    From 12 years old

    Children must be in good physical condition and accompanied by a responsible adult.

    Season

    October 1st to April 15th

    Groups of up to 14 passengers.
  • Requirements and restrictions

    Good physical condition is required, and prior mountain experience is recommended. The route involves 1,000 meters of accumulated elevation gain with a sustained climb. Not recommended during pregnancy or for people with knee or heart problems. Minimum age: 12 years.

  • Recommendations

    Hiking boots, layered clothing, a waterproof and windproof jacket, sunscreen, a hat and gloves, and plenty of water and food. At the summit, the wind is stronger and the temperature drops considerably compared to the village: it's advisable to bring an extra layer even if it's warm down below.

  • 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. It is suspended in the event of strong winds, storms, or snow at high altitudes.The summit is an exposed area with no shelter.
    • With the hill covered in clouds, the panoramic view, which is the main reason for the hike, is lost. The guide may suggest rescheduling if the forecast is unfavorable.

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