Feb 7, 2026
Before even talking about hiking, it is important to remind one thing. The original name of this iconic mountain is not Fitz Roy, but El Chaltén, which means "the mountain that smokes" in the Tehuelche language. A name inspired by the clouds that cling almost permanently to its summit.
Before even talking about hiking, it is important to remind one thing. The original name of this iconic mountain is not Fitz Roy, but El Chaltén, which means "the mountain that smokes" in Tehuelche language. A name inspired by the clouds that almost permanently cling to its summit.
In 1877, the mountain was renamed Fitz Roy by Francisco Moreno. The town of El Chaltén, founded much later in 1985, will adopt this name in homage to the Tehuelche people. It is always important to know the history of the places we pass through, especially in a region as laden with meaning as Patagonia.
When to do the Fitz Roy trek?
We did this trek in the summer. The advice shared here is therefore suited for spring and summer. In winter, the conditions change completely. The trail becomes more technical, sometimes snowy or icy, and requires much more preparation, both in terms of equipment and experience.
The trek we are going to talk about is that of the Laguna de los Tres, which offers, in our opinion, the most beautiful view of the mountain and is surrounded by several magnificent light blue lagoons.
ARGENTINA
Buenos
Aires
El Chaltén
What to Expect on the Laguna de los Tres Trek?
Let's be clear, this is not a walk in the park.
Total distance: approximately 20 to 22 km round trip
Average duration: 8 to 11 hours
Positive elevation: approximately 1050 m
Of which 400 m is on the last kilometer
Here is a small image to help you better understand the elevation
It’s long, it’s demanding, and if you choose to do it for the sunrise, fatigue must be taken into account. That said, the trek remains accessible. We were (very) novice ourselves when we set out, but we left prepared, informed, and telling ourselves: "If we can’t make it, that’s okay, we won’t push beyond our limits."
Throughout the course, only three kilometers are really difficult. The first two already concentrate a good part of the elevation gain, then the last kilometer, very steep, which alone accumulates more than 400 m of ascent.
Sunrise or day hike?
If you are hesitating between doing the sunrise trek or the daytime one, choose the sunrise! You won’t regret it!!
Yes, you have to get up very early. Yes, it is cold. Yes, it is more tiring. But seeing the first rays of dawn gradually illuminate Fitz Roy is a unique experience. The mountain changes color minute by minute, and the atmosphere at the summit is one-of-a-kind.
The weather, your best ally or your worst enemy
Watch the weather before you go. We've been told this several times, and it's true: if the weather is bad down below, it's often worse up high. Clouds, wind, and cold can completely obscure the view or ruin the experience.
We know that it's not always simple when you have little time on site, but if you can wait for a good weather window, do it.
El Chaltén in Photo
Take your time and listen to yourself
Once launched, go at your own pace. You will see people pass you, going very fast. Whether it's on the way there or on the way back: Let it be.
This is not a race. What matters is your safety. In case of problems, there is no rescue team on the trail or in El Chaltén. You must be able to return on your own.
Dressing well for the trek
The weather changes quickly. Very quickly.
Plan for layers that you can easily take off and put back on. Neck gaiter, gloves, hat, fleece, windbreaker. You will get warm while climbing, cold at the top, then warm again while descending.
It is super cold at the summit, and if you sit to watch the sunrise, you will quickly cool down. We brought our sleeping bags to settle in, and we don't regret it!
Warning: Some parts of the hike are above small streams or in wet areas, and trust us, once you're at the top you do not want to have cold feet, so don’t hesitate to slip in a small pair of spare socks.
Water, food and navigation
Take enough water and food. The trek is long (10km going and then 10km back) and there is nothing on the way. Also, download an offline map. There is no network, and at night, it is easy to get lost on the trail.
Park entrance price
For a few months, the entry is 45,000 ARS per person in 2026. Paying for entry allows participation in the maintenance and conservation of the park, especially since the government has cut their funding a bit.
In summary
The trek to Laguna de los Tres is challenging but incredibly rewarding. With good preparation, patience, and a bit of luck with the weather, it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful moments to experience in El Chaltén.
Take your time, listen to yourself, and enjoy. Happy hiking!
