estancia cristina trekking tour in el calafate

FROM USD 295

Full day tour to Estancia Cristina: Trekking Option

Ride by 4×4 to the Upsala Glacier lookout, then hike 12 km through Cañadón de los Fósiles on a challenging, 4.5-hour route.

Why Choose This Activity?

  • 12 km guided hike through Cañadón de los Fósiles
  • English-speaking guide
  • 4×4 ride to the trailhead
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12 km Trek through Cañadón de los Fósiles

Easy Cancellation

If you need to cancel or postpone, just send us an email and we will take care of everything.

Direct Communication With the Operator

You will have the WhatsApp for the operator of your choose excursion. No more lost pick ups!

English-Speaking Guide and Small Groups

Almost all of our tours are done in small groups. All of them have English speaking guides.

OVERVIEW

Sail across the Northern Arm of Lake Argentino to Estancia Cristina, then travel 9.5 km by 4×4 through the Feruglio Mountains to the starting point of the hike. Follow a gradual descent through the glacially eroded Cañadón de los Fósiles, where marine fossils are exposed along the route, and continue through the valley. The hike covers approximately 12 km and takes around 4.5 hours over challenging natural terrain. A boxed lunch is included during the trek. After returning to the estancia, board the boat for the navigation back to Puerto Punta Bandera.

About Us

PeritoMorenoGlacier.com, a site by RipioTurismo, celebrates South America as the vibrant garden of our world, rich in colorful landscapes, cultural heritage, gastronomy, and warm hospitality. With +20 years of expertise, we craft custom trips across Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, and Paraguay. Our carefully selected hotels and local partners ensure the best service possible. We cater to FITs, groups, adventure seekers, and the 50+ age group with luxury tours.

ITINERARY

Around 7:30 AM | Optional transfer from El Calafate
If you have selected the optional transfer, be ready at your hotel for pickup. If you are making your own way to the port, arrive at Puerto Punta Bandera by the time stated on your confirmation.

Around 9:00 AM | Navigation to Estancia Cristina
Board the boat at Puerto Punta Bandera and sail across Lake Argentino’s Northern Arm, passing icebergs on the way to Estancia Cristina. The round-trip navigation takes approximately four hours.

At the estancia | 4×4 ride to the trailhead
Travel approximately 9.5 km by 4×4 through the Feruglio Mountains to the viewpoint overlooking Lago Guillermo and the Upsala Glacier area. The route gains approximately 370 metres in altitude by vehicle.

Trekking | Cañadón de los Fósiles
Begin the approximately 12 km hike, which takes around 4.5 hours. Follow a gradual descent over uneven, glacially eroded terrain through the canyon, where marine fossils are exposed along the route. Continue through the valley to return to the estancia. This is a physically demanding hike and requires good physical condition.

Lunch | During the trek
Stop for the included boxed lunch along the route.

Return navigation | Puerto Punta Bandera
After returning to the estancia, board the boat for the navigation back to Puerto Punta Bandera. The excursion is expected to finish around 7:00 PM.

Duration: Full Day
Cancellation Policy: Non-refundable
Availability: October 1 to April 30
Starting Time: 8:30 AM
Finishing Time: 7:00 PM
Pick Up: Meeting Point
Drop Off: Meeting Point
Language: English and Spanish
Minimum Booking: 1

WHAT'S INCLUDED

  • Trekking tour
  • English speaking guide
  • Entrance fee to National Park
  • Lunch
  • Tips

OPTIONALS

Transfers from/to your hotel

CANCELLATION POLICY

Non-refundable. The rescheduled will be subject to availability or can be left as a credit to apply to a future reservation.

FAQs

Is this tour available on December 24th, 25th, 31st or January 1st?

Yes. Estancia Cristina’s day visits operate daily from October 1 to April 30, including Christmas and New Year’s Eve.

Does this tour have any age restrictions?

Yes. The minimum age is 12 years old.

Is this tour available for people with reduced mobility?

Due to physical demands and challenging terrain, this trek is only suitable for individuals in good physical condition. This program is not recommended for people with back, hip, ankle, or knee problems.

How does the booking process work?

After booking and finalizing payment, you will receive a confirmation of your purchase. Then, in less than 24 hours, you will receive the voucher that you can use to take the excursions.

If the reservation is for the next day, we will be attentive and send you the voucher before your excursion begins.

Is lunch included?

Yes. A boxed lunch is included during the trek.

Are hotel transfers included?

No. Round-trip transfers between El Calafate and Puerto Punta Bandera are optional and can be added when booking.

How technical is the hiking terrain?

The route is primarily a trekking experience rather than technical mountaineering, but Patagonian trails can be uneven, muddy, rocky, steep, or exposed to wind. Good balance and confidence on natural terrain are important.

How should I judge whether my fitness level is sufficient?

Think about whether you can comfortably walk for several hours on uneven ground with climbs and descents. The challenge comes from sustained effort, terrain and weather rather than speed alone.

Is the trail suitable for travelers who are afraid of heights?

Most trekking routes are not designed as exposed climbing routes, but some viewpoints or slopes can feel open. Travelers with a strong fear of heights should review the specific route profile before booking.

What happens if the weather changes during the hike?

Guides continuously assess wind, rain, snow and trail conditions. The pace, stops or route may be adjusted when needed, and safety always takes priority over reaching a specific viewpoint.

Will I have time to stop for photographs?

Yes, but the guide must balance photo stops with the group’s pace and the day’s schedule. Keeping your camera or phone easily accessible helps you take advantage of short stops without delaying the group.

Are trekking poles useful?

They can be very helpful on uneven ground, descents, muddy sections or windy days. Whether they are essential depends on the route and your personal comfort.

Is this trek a good option for solo travelers?

Yes. Guided treks are popular with solo travelers because they provide structure, local knowledge and the opportunity to share the experience with other visitors.

How much water should I carry?

Carry enough water for the expected hiking time and weather, while avoiding an unnecessarily heavy backpack. Exact needs vary by route and season, so follow the operator’s pre-tour guidance.

Can I do another demanding activity the following day?

Many travelers can, but it depends on your fitness and how your body responds. If you are planning several demanding Patagonia hikes, alternating harder and easier days can make the trip more enjoyable.

What makes guided trekking valuable compared with hiking alone?

A guide adds route knowledge, weather judgment, safety support, natural and cultural interpretation, and pacing. This can be especially useful in Patagonia, where conditions can change rapidly.

Book Now!

Step 1 of 2

Booking Details (1/2)

Do you want to include transfers?
We will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel.

BOOKING FAQS

How Do I Book?

Just complete the booking form. When you finish, you will be redirected to Paypal, where you can pay for the tour.

What Happens After Booking?

Once you’ve completed your booking and payment, you’ll receive a confirmation of your purchase. Within 24 hours, you’ll receive the voucher you’ll need to participate in the activity.

If you’ve booked an activity for the following day, don’t worry. We’ll make sure to send you the voucher before your activity begins.

I Have Other Questions...

Just head to our Contact Page and send us your enquiries.

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