230 kilometres from El Calafate and in the north extreme of the Glaciers National Park (Parque Nacional Los Glaciares) are the highest peaks and the greatest diversity of granite forms of the mountain range, which together with forests, glaciers and lakes, make up one of the most beautiful sites of our country: the highest hill is Fitz Roy with 3,405 meters above sea level and it is followed by the famous Cerro Torre with 3,102 meters above sea level. At the foot of this amazing landscape, in the valley of “Las Vueltas” river (Río Las Vueltas), is the small town of El Chaltén, the national capital of trekking.
On this amazing natural setting you have many different options for walking, climbing or going on excursions. Most of the itineraries are self-guided, so you can go through them without the need of a guide. As soon as you arrive the city, you can access all the information to go through the trails at the National Parks office.
El Chaltén is no doubt Mecca for climbers from all over the world, who each year come to challenge the hills. It’s also the ideal place for trekking lovers, who add mysticism to a town that receives thousands of visitors from all over the world every summer. If you are a lover of mountains and hiking and you are staying in El Calafate, El Chaltén is a must visit.
How to get there: By private car from El Calafate, it’s a 2.30-hour trip. There are daily buses from El Calafate Bus Station, located two blocks from the cabins “Las Cumbres”. Or full-day excursions can be hired in travel agencies of the city.
