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FROM USD 60

Lago del Desierto from El Chalten Full Day Tour

Enjoy an amazing tour in Lago del Desierto, El Chalten. With views of the Huemul glacier and the Vespignani glacier!

Why Choose This Activity?

  • Transfer from/to your hotel
  • English speaking guide
  • See the Huemul glacier and the Vespignani glacier
BOOK NOW

You will be able to choose the difficulty of the path.

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

Explore Lago del Desierto on a scenic excursion from El Chaltén, combining mountain landscapes, native forests, and a self-guided hike to the Huemul Glacier Viewpoint.

Travel approximately 36 km north along Provincial Route 41, following the Río de las Vueltas valley toward the southern shore of Lago del Desierto. The drive offers views of forests, waterfalls, and the surrounding mountains.

At the destination, follow the self-guided Huemul trail through private land to a viewpoint overlooking the glacier and its lagoon. The approximately 4 km return hike involves around 220 meters of elevation gain and takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on your pace.

The regular excursion includes return transportation from El Chaltén, admission to the Huemul trail, and a box lunch. A trekking guide and boat navigation are not included.

The base excursion lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours. Navigation on Lago del Desierto can be requested separately at an additional cost, subject to availability.

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

Departure From El Chaltén

Meet at the confirmed boarding point in El Chaltén. Your departure time and meeting instructions will be provided before the excursion.

Travel north along Provincial Route 41 toward Lago del Desierto. The scenic drive follows the Río de las Vueltas valley through forests and mountain landscapes, with opportunities for photography along the way.

Lago del Desierto and Huemul Trail

Upon reaching the southern shore of Lago del Desierto, enjoy the surrounding scenery before beginning the self-guided hike to the Huemul Glacier Viewpoint.

Admission to the trail is included. The route covers approximately 4 km out and back, with around 220 meters of elevation gain. Allow approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes for the walk, depending on your pace and trail conditions.

The trail involves uphill walking on natural, uneven terrain. No guide accompanies the regular service, so participants should be comfortable following a self-guided mountain trail.

Box Lunch and Free Time

A box lunch is included. Enjoy it during your visit, allowing enough time to return to the agreed meeting point for the return transfer.

Boat navigation and access to the Vespignani Reserve are not included in the base itinerary. These activities require a separately arranged supplement and may change the day’s schedule.

Return to El Chaltén

Meet at the agreed time for the return journey to El Chaltén.

The base excursion lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours. Departure and return times are confirmed according to the selected service. Weather and road or trail conditions may affect the itinerary.

Duration: Full Day
Cancellation Policy: 7 days before the date of your tour
Availability: Subject to Availability, Weather, and Road Conditions
Starting Time: To Be Confirmed
Finishing Time: To Be Confirmed
Pick Up: Meeting Point
Drop Off: Meeting Point
Language: English, Spanish
Minimum Booking: 1

WHAT'S INCLUDED

  • Round-trip transportation between El Chaltén and Lago del Desierto
  • Admission to the Huemul trail
  • Box lunch
  • Trekking guide
  • Boat navigation on Lago del Desierto
  • Boat navigation on Lago del Desierto

OPTIONALS

There's no optionals available for this excursions. Let us know if you need anything on your booking.

CANCELLATION POLICY

Cancellations made 7 days before the date of the activity will have a full refund.

FAQs

Is this tour available on Dec 24, 25, 31, or Jan 1?

Please check with us.

Does this tour have any age restrictions?

There are no age restrictions.

Is this tour accessible for people with reduced mobility?

Unfortunately, no.

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.

What should I bring for this activity?

We recommend wearing comfortable shoes with thick soles, loose-fitting pants (preferably made of nylon or quick-drying fabrics), a waterproof jacket or windbreaker, an extra fleece, a hat with a visor, a medium-sized backpack, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Can I take photos during the tour?

Yes, you can take photos during the tour. The scenic views along the way and at the destination provide excellent opportunities for photography.

Can this experience be combined with another half-day activity?

Keep this excursion as a full-day plan. Confirm the return time before making another substantial booking that day.

Is This a Good Activity for the First Day in the Destination?

The base excursion lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours and starts in El Chaltén. It can be a good option if you are already in town before the confirmed departure time. Avoid planning it immediately after an arrival with a tight connection.

Will There Be Opportunities for Independent Exploration?

Yes. The Huemul hike is self-guided, allowing you to walk at your own pace within the time available. Follow the trail and return to the agreed meeting point on time.

Will the Itinerary Feel Rushed?

The excursion combines the scenic drive with time for the Huemul hike and your box lunch. Keep track of the agreed return time, especially if you stop frequently for photographs.

What Is the Difficulty Level of the Hike?

The Huemul trail is rated as easy to moderate. It covers approximately 4 km out and back, with around 220 meters of elevation gain. Expect uphill sections and uneven natural terrain.

Is the Tour Suitable for All Fitness Levels?

Participants should be comfortable walking uphill on uneven terrain. Although the hike is shorter than other trekking routes around El Chaltén, it still requires physical effort and is not suitable for every fitness level.

Is a Guide Included?

No. The regular service includes transportation and a self-guided hike. A trekking guide does not accompany participants on the Huemul trail.

Does the Base Excursion Visit Vespignani Reserve?

No. Vespignani Reserve is reached by boat and is not part of the base excursion. A navigation with time on the reserve’s self-guided trails can be requested at an additional cost, subject to availability.

Is Lunch Included?

Yes. A box lunch is included in the base excursion. Please mention any dietary requirements when booking so that available alternatives can be checked.

Is Boat Navigation Included?

No. Boat navigation is not included in the base price. You can request a scenic cruise or a navigation to Vespignani Reserve at an additional cost, subject to availability.

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Booking Details (1/2)

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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