Valleys of Glaciers

Weather

The weather in Patagonia is very changeable and the wind can be very strong. The days can go from sunny to rain, hail and even snow in spring (Sep-Nov), with a daytime temperature of 15°C and 0-5°C at night. The wind can make the environment feel colder. It is advisable to come prepared for all types of weather and with good quality clothing.

Timeline

Day 1

El Chalten - Rio Electrico - Piedra del Fraile

We start in the Rio Electrico valley, 18 km from El Chalten, from where we will witness the recent passage of the glaciers. From here we will walk along this valley with beautiful views of the Marconi and Pollone glaciers, as well as the Electric Lake at the foot of Cerro Marconi. We will spend the night at the Piedra del Fraile Shelter.

Distance 12 Km
Elevation gained/lost +500/-500 meters
Time 7 hours
Low difficulty

Day 2

Piedra del Fraile - Poincenot's Campsite

After a good breakfast, we begin the hike heading south, along the Rio Blanco Valley with splendid views of the mountains as we walk through a Lengas forest, passing by the Piedras Blancas Glacier viewpoint. We will arrive at the Poincenot camp and after a break, we will continue with the climb to Laguna de los Tres to enjoy a stunning view of Cerro Fitz Roy and the glacial cirque. Return to the camp, where we will have dinner and rest.

Distance 13 Km
Elevation gained/lost +600/-400 meters
Time 8 hours
Moderate difficulty

Day 3

Poincenot's Campsite - Torre Lake - El Chalten

We have breakfast and begin the walk south towards the Mother and Daughter Lagoons trail, which crosses a beautiful Andean Patagonian forest, a good time to contemplate it. After about 3/4 hours we will arrive at Laguna Torre, with beautiful views of the Cerros Torre, Solo and Adela's range, as well as different glaciers. We have lunch and begin the return trip, lasting about three hours, to EL Chalten.

Distance 18 Km
Elevation 250 m
Low difficulty
Duration 7-8 hours

Personal equipment

• 50-60L Backpack

• Sleeping bag

• Sleeping pad

• Polar or windstopper

• Waterproof pants and jacket

• Trekking pants or softshell

• Waterproof trekking boots

• Light shoes

• Insulated hooded jacket (down or synthetic)

• Fleece jacket or windstopper

• Synthetic base layers

• T-shirt, synthetic or merino

• Waterproof gloves

• Sweater

• Gaiters

• Sunglasses with UV filter

• Headlamp and spare batteries

• Sunblock and lip balm

• Buff, balaclava, sun cap

• Trekking poles

• 1L water bottle

• Pocket knife

• Personal Hygienic set

• Backpack cover and plastic bags (Ziploc)

Included

• Mountain or Trekking Guide

• Transfer from El Chalten to Rio Electrico's bridge

• Meals (meals, breakfast and dinner); double tents.

• Kitchen set

• First aid box

• VHF Radio

*There is the option to use an organized camping service, which includes a dining dome with tables and chairs, and double tents with sleeping bags and mats.

Description