It is every globetrotter’s dream to have the ultimate vacation in South America, especially the Patagonia region that is located between Chile and Argentina. Considered one of the most spectacular regions on the planet, Patagonia is divided by the majestic Andes Mountains. Endowed with a stunning natural landscape, many attractions in Patagonia are related to the mountains, the beaches, the lakes, the parks and activities that should include hiking and trekking. Create beautiful memories that are worth sharing by taking part in some hiking and trekking. If you are not sure about where to go, don’t worry. Keep reading to learn about the best hiking and trekking spots in Patagonia.
1. Cerro Tronador (from USD 48.0)
The first hike on our list is Cerro Tronador, which can be found when you make your way to Nahuel Huapi National Park. This should be a rather easy trek, as it takes only five hours. You will begin your exciting adventure at Pampa Linda and travel all the way up to the Otto Meiling Hut. Spectacular vistas of the lake and mountain are ready to give you as many beautiful memories as possible.
Cerro Tronador
Duration: 9.0 hour
2. Exploradores Glacier
Next on the list is the Exploradores Glacier. You can guess from the name of this spot that it is going to be an adventure on ice and it’s an amazing one, by the way. The trail stretches for approximately 31 miles (52 km) and covers the western part of Puerto Rico Tranquilo and General Carrera Lake. It will take between six to seven hours to complete the whole adventure.
The difficulty level is low, but you are required to be physically fit. Your effort will all be worth it once you get to the top and look down to marvel at Monte San Valentin and Bayo Lake. Take note that since this is an adventure on ice, you should be accompanied by an expert guide.
Exploradores Glacier
Address: Laguna San Rafael National Park
3. Lago del Desierto (from USD 2.0)
Lago del Desierto, also known as the Lake of the Desert in English, is another hiking and trekking spot that is interesting to try out. The Argentinian lake provides an easy hiking and trekking path that can be completed in fewer than eight hours. The best time to take on this hike is between the months of October and April and you should be at least eight years of age. While trekking, be sure to pause every now and then to enjoy the view of the forest.
Patagonia 13-Day Adventure Tour from El Calafate to Ushuaia
Duration: 13 days
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Laguna Torre Trek (from USD 186.0)
If you are interested in hiking one of the classically beautiful spots in Patagonia, there is no way you will want to miss Laguna Torre. Spare approximately seven to eight hours because that is the time it takes to complete this journey. This spot is open all year round and you can expect a medium level of difficulty. You have to be in El Chalten to find the Laguna Torre Trek. The start point is the beautiful Fitz Roy River. Along the way, you will be presented with the magnificent views of Cerro Solo, the Margarita Waterfall and the Torre Lagoon, among others.
El Chalten: Laguna Torre Trek
Duration: 8 hour
5. Huemul Circuit
Nestled just outside El Chalten, the Huemul Circuit can be found within the Parque Nacional Los Glaciares and is among the most challenging spots in Patagonia. If you are not extremely fit, it is best not to try this circuit. If you do not want to miss this route, then make sure to be at your fittest before taking this trek on.
The starting point of the Huemul Circuit is El Chalten and the endpoint is Lago Viedma. The most important view and also the prettiest is the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, which happens to be the world’s second-largest non-polar ice field. In addition to this, you will be presented with gorgeous views of the meadows, riverbanks, forests and much more.
Huemul Circuit
Address: El Chalten, Argentina
6. Cerro Castillo Circuit
Many hikers and trekkers have no idea about the existence of the Cerro Castillo Circuit, yet it awaits your embrace if you want to take on the Torres del Paine W Trek. Boasting the remarkable beauty of the majestic Castle Peak that is set in the Southern Andes of Patagonia, the circuit starts at Cerreterra Austral and ends at a lagoon that overlooks the Circo Glacier. You will need approximately three to four days to complete this moderately difficult circuit and, along the journey, you’ll be immersed in the beauty of mountain valleys, rain forest and glaciers, to name a few highlights.
Cerro Castillo Circuit
Address: Torres del Paine National Park
7. Perito Moreno
Nestled in Los Glaciares National Park, the Perito Moreno is one of the most popular points of interest in Argentina. Offering both hiking and trekking activities, Perito Moreno is suitable for people between the ages of 10 and 65. The trek will last for only a few hours and you can choose whether to take part in a trekking tour or a mini trek. If you choose to hike, be prepared for one of the best hiking ice adventures in the world.
The good news is, to hike the glacier, there is no need for previous experience. You will learn how to use an ice ax, wear crampons and take on the glacier. It is going to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience when you see the ice caves and seracs and walk on the ice.
8. Cabo Froward Trek
What do you think of going to the southernmost point of the American continent? It is definitely something worth doing and you’ll be sure to have some stories to tell later on once you get back home. Situated in the southern part of Punta Arenas, the Cabo Froward Trek requires as little as two days to complete. To get to Cabo Froward, you need to take a boat trip. A guided journey is always recommended because this one is very challenging. You will encounter sand hiking and forests, among other challenging terrains.
Cabo Froward Trek
Address: Cabo Froward, Chile
9. Fitz Roy
Last but not least is the Fitz Roy hike, a splendid hiking trail in Los Glaciares National Park. You will need about eight hours for the hike and it starts easy at the beginning, but as you make your way to the top, it gets pretty tough. It is safe to stay that the difficulty level of this activity is medium. Start at El Chalten and end at the ultimate destination that is Laguna de Los Tres.
Fitz Roy
Address: On the border between Argentina and Chile
Visiting Patagonia without hiking or trekking would not be the same
Offering the best of the best hiking and trekking spots in the world, Patagonia is surely the ultimate destination for those who are into outdoor activities. Even if you are not fond of hiking and trekking, consider doing at least one of these trails because a vacation in Patagonia without doing so will not be as memorable.
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
-
10 Best Beach Resorts In Chile - Updated 2024Kristen Grace -
-
-
What To Buy In ChileMelissa -
-
Traditional Food In ChileZinhle -
-
-
Create an account to