Hiking Laguna de los Tres in El Chaltén was one of the highlights of my Patagonia trip! This iconic trail leads you to epic views of Mount Fitz Roy and stunning turquoise water. It is a long and challenging day hike, but if you catch it on a clear day, it is 100% worth it!
In this post, I share a complete guide for hiking Laguna de los Tres so you can be prepared!
Check out how this hike could fit into a full Patagonia itinerary here.
Laguna de los Tres Hike Overview
- Location: El Chaltén, Argentina
- Distance: ~15.8 miles roundtrip (out-and-back hike)
- Elevation Gain: ~5,100 feet
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Trailhead: Trailhead Fitz Roy / Laguna de los Tres Trailhead (walkable from town)
- Best For: Experienced hikers, clear weather days
Getting to the Trailhead
One of the best things about hiking in El Chaltén is that the trailheads are easily walkable from the town.
I recommend starting the hike early to avoid crowds, and the weather can be more predictable in the morning, so you have a better chance of clear views of Fitz Roy.
What To Expect On The Hike
The Laguna de los Tres hike is a challenging trek, mostly because of its length. The trail starts with a steep ascent, and levels out for most of the route. There are distance markers along the trail, which are helpful… but can also be a little discouraging when you realize just how much farther you still have to go 🙂
The endpoint is not the only views you will see on this hike. You will have stunning views of Mount Fitz Roy throughout the hike as well!
Then, you will hit the last mile… this portion will test you! This is the most challenging part of the hike. It climbs straight up to the spectacular viewpoint you came for.
And wow! It does not disappoint. You see the iconic Mount Fitz Roy towers along with a stunning blue lagoon.
Make sure to take the extra detour down to the water and then up to the left for an even more secluded and stunning perspective of even bluer water! It is an extra short climb… but definitely worth it!
Keep in mind that this is a very popular hike, so expect some slower groups and trail congestion, especially on the final ascent. Patience is key, but once you arrive at the lagoon, there is plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the views peacefully.
What To Wear
Patagonia weather is no joke, and layering is essential for this hike. I had really great, sunny conditions, but still experienced some wind and felt cold at the top.
What I Wore:
- Hiking boots
- Hiking socks
- Leggings
- Long-sleeve Nike quarter-zip
- Columbia rain jacket (used at the windy viewpoint)
- Lightweight gloves (only needed at the top)
- Sunglasses
I also brought a Patagonia puffer jacket, but thanks to sunny weather, I did not end up needing it. That said, it is something I would recommend bringing. The weather can change quickly in Patagonia, and having an insulated layer is never a bad idea.
I personally did not use hiking poles, but the majority of hikers on the trail had them. They can be especially helpful on the final steep ascent and the descent back down. The hike is doable without them, but if you have poles, you definitely won’t regret bringing them.
In addition to clothing, make sure to bring:
- Plenty of water (I recommend adding electrolytes)
- Snacks for the long day on the trail. I packed beef jerky, dried mango, and protein bars
This is a long and demanding hike, so having the right layers, fuel, and hydration makes a big difference in how enjoyable the day feels.
Laguna de los Tres Hiking Tips
- Purchase the Los Glaciares National Park Entrance Ticket. Purchase the park pass before you get to the trailhead for quicker access on the trail.
- Check the weather the night before. Clear skies make or break this hike.
- Start early to avoid crowds and afternoon wind.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks. It is important to stay fueled and hydrated on this hike.
- Be courteous to other hikers. Allow faster hikers to pass and have patience for slower groups.
- Don’t rush the viewpoint. This is the moment you came for, so take your time and enjoy the views.
When To Hike Laguna de los Tres
The best time to hike Laguna de los Tres is between October and April, with peak conditions typically in December through February. That said, clear weather matters more than the season.
If seeing Fitz Roy clearly is a priority, make sure to build flexibility into your El Chaltén itinerary and plan this hike for your clearest day. I was incredibly grateful for the weather I had for this hike!
Where To Eat After The Hike
After the hike, our feet and legs were tired, but we made a stop at La Cervecería Chaltén for food and a well-deserved beer. The vibes are great, and the stew was exactly what we needed after such a long day on the trail.
Is Laguna de los Tres Worth It?
Yes! But… only if you have clear weather and are prepared for a long day on the trail. This hike is physically demanding, but the payoff is one of the most iconic views in Patagonia. If you only have time for one major hike in El Chaltén, this should be it!
Other Hikes In El Chaltén
While Laguna de los Tres is the most famous hike in El Chaltén, there are plenty of other incredible trails worth adding to your itinerary. Don’t do the other hikes as a replacement for Laguna de los Tres, BUT they are great options if you have a few extra days or want backup options for the weather.
Laguna Torre
Laguna Torre is another classic El Chaltén hike and a great option if you’re looking for a long but slightly less strenuous day than Laguna de los Tres. The trail starts with a steady climb before leveling out for most of the hike, without the brutal final ascent you get on the Fitz Roy trail.
On clear days, you will be rewarded with views of Cerro Torre and a lagoon. If visibility is poor (like it was when I went on this hike!), it is still a worthwhile hike with the scenery along the way, just without the dramatic finale.
- Distance: ~11.4 miles roundtrip (out-and-back hike)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best for: Cloudy days or as a second big hike
Mirador Los Cóndores & Mirador Las Águilas
These short viewpoint hikes are perfect for arrival or departure days, or when you do not want to commit to a full-day trek. Mirador Los Cóndores offers views over the town, and Mirador Las Águilas provides a different perspective over the water in the opposite direction.
- Distance: ~2–3 miles roundtrip (out-and-back hike)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best for: Short hikes, sunset views, or rest days
Chorrillo del Salto
If you are looking for something easy and peaceful, Chorrillo del Salto is a lovely walk to a waterfall just outside town. The trail is mostly flat and well-maintained, making it a great option for a low-key hike or recovery day.
- Distance: ~2.5 miles roundtrip (out-and-back hike)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best for: Rest days or pairing with another short hike
Final Thoughts
Hiking Laguna de los Tres was easily one of the most memorable experiences of my time in Patagonia. It is a long and challenging day, but the views are so worth it!
If you have flexibility in your itinerary, I highly recommend planning this hike around the weather and saving it for your clearest day. Pair it with other hikes like Laguna Torre or the shorter viewpoints around town, and you will get a well-rounded taste of everything El Chaltén has to offer.
Let me know if you have any questions! I would love to help you prepare for hiking Laguna de los Tres!
Follow for more on social media and email me with any questions!