5 Trekking Routes in El Calafate for All Levels
Unlike other Patagonian cities where adventure and adrenaline are more visible, one might think that El Calafate is only visited for a romantic getaway or an express trip. However, this town in Santa Cruz is a source of numerous outdoor activities worth staying a few extra nights for, without rushing. A concrete example is the possibilities for hiking and summiting in the region. In this article, we will suggest 5 trekking routes in El Calafate famous for their imposing landscapes, reliable paths, and unbeatable high-altitude views.
La Leona Petrified Forest
One of the most fascinating treks heads towards the Bosque Petrificado La Leona, a paleontological site located halfway between El Calafate and El Chaltén. The excursion begins with a tour along Route 40, bordering Lago Argentino and the Santa Cruz River, until reaching a desert area where dinosaurs reigned millions of years ago.
The trail, of moderate difficulty and about three hours in duration, crosses a depression in the terrain covered with petrified trunks and fossil fragments of prehistoric species. From different points, open views of Mount Fitz Roy and the Andes Mountain Range can be appreciated, making the trek an experience as visual as it is educational.
Travelers especially value the combination of nature and science, the professionalism of the guides, and the tranquility of the environment, away from the busier tourist circuits.
El Cañadón and Estancia 25 de Mayo
For those who prefer an experience closer to El Calafate, Estancia 25 de Mayo offers a half-day trek through the Cañadón del Calafate, a landscape sculpted by the erosion of the stream that gives it its name.
The route, of about 7 kilometers (4.3 miles), allows you to observe the beauty of the native nature—without much difficulty, you will see animals such as guanacos, choiques (lesser rheas), and red foxes—and admire the curious rock formations where there are still marine fossils, testimony to when this area was covered by the sea. The hike ends with lunch at the estancia: Patagonian asado, regional sweets, and homemade dishes prepared by expert hands.
Due to its proximity to the city, the natural landscape, and its gastronomic touch, this excursion receives excellent ratings from those looking for a full but accessible day from downtown El Calafate.
Lago Roca and Estancia Nibepo Aike
Another highly recommended proposal is the trek to Lago Roca and Estancia Nibepo Aike, inside Los Glaciares National Park. The itinerary follows the Route of the Pioneers, a scenic trace that runs along the southern arm of Lago Argentino and crosses landscapes where the historical events of the "Rebel Patagonia" took place.
During the walk, visitors see Tehuelche cave paintings, natural viewpoints overlooking Lago Roca, and old-growth forests. at the end of the tour, visitors are welcomed at the estancia with a delicious traditional lunch, with drinks and dessert included.
Travelers usually highlight the quality of the service, the organization of the guides, and the possibility of combining that natural environment with the culture and history of El Calafate in the same experience. Due to its scenic beauty and heritage value, this trek is considered one of the region's must-dos.
El Chaltén in a Single Day
Of course, from El Calafate, single-day excursions are made to one of the most popular destinations in the area: El Chaltén, the National Trekking Capital.
With round-trip transfers included, the trekking experience in El Chaltén from El Calafate becomes very practical and comfortable for those traveling through Patagonia without a vehicle and who do not want to incur unnecessary expenses. In addition, this plan allows enjoying the most emblematic trails of Los Glaciares National Park without the need to stay overnight there.
The journey along Route 40 is an experience in itself: it crosses arid landscapes, the La Leona River, and offers constant views of Mount Fitz Roy. Once in El Chaltén, participants can choose different self-guided trails—such as the Fitz Roy Viewpoint, Laguna Capri, or Cerro Torre—according to their physical level and the conditions of the day.
This experience includes the accompaniment of a professional guide, maps, and a box lunch, which facilitates the day. Those who do it value the comfort of having organized transfers and the possibility of knowing the heart of Patagonian trekking in a single day, with some of the most photographed landscapes in South America.
Ascent to Cerro Frías
Finally, for those looking for a moderate challenge with an unmatched view, the trek to Cerro Frías is an ideal alternative. A few kilometers from El Calafate, this isolated elevation offers a demanding but accessible hike, ascending to 1,095 meters above sea level.
During the tour, you cross forests of lengas (beech trees), fields with the presence of guanacos, and the historic Leñador refuge, dating from the early 20th century. From the summit, you get a 360-degree panoramic view that encompasses Lago Argentino, the Andes Mountain Range, the Cordón de los Baguales, and, on clear days, even the Torres del Paine in Chile.
The excursion includes transfers, trekking poles, a box lunch, and an artisanal snack. Hikers highlight the organization and warmth of the service, as well as the satisfaction of reaching a summit with one of the best views in the entire region.
Each of these experiences allows discovering a different face of Patagonia and particularly of El Calafate: from millenary fossils and hidden canyons to panoramic summits and historic estancias.
Due to their quality of service, the variety of landscapes, and the adaptable level of difficulty, these are undoubtedly the best trekking excursions to do in El Calafate, recommended both by experienced travelers and by those starting in hiking.
El Calafate is not just a stopover city: it is a destination to walk in depth and to take home beautiful memories of its varied natural landscapes and fascinating stories. Have a great trip!