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Laguna De Los Tres
The Laguna de los Tres hike is a must-do trek for anyone visiting El Chaltén. This trail covers spectacular views of the Fitz Roy Massif and culminates at the stunning Laguna de los Tres, where you’ll be rewarded with an awe-inspiring panorama of Mount Fitz Roy (Chaltén), its surrounding peaks, and the alpine lake below. The trek is challenging but accessible, making it perfect for those seeking adventure and breathtaking viewpoints. Don’t be hesitant to give it a shot. Our guides will take care of you.
Laguna de los Tres hike
The Laguna de los Tres hike is also well known as the Fitz Roy hike its a classic objective in Los Glaciares National Park. Expect a long, strenuous day, 21 km round trip from El Chaltén or 20 km from Puente del Río Eléctrico, finishing with a steep final climb to the lake. It’s one of the area’s tougher hikes, start early, bring layers, and plan for wind and fast changing weather.
Laguna de los tres guide/ how to
- The hike begins from El Chaltén, or from Puente del Rio Electrico (25 minute drive).
- Most hikers start early in the morning (6:45) to take advantage of the more stable conditions. Also, to have ample time to enjoy the views. My recommendation is to start at 5-6:00 a.m. to beat most of the other hikers.
- Arriving at either Mirador Piedras Blancas or Mirador Rio de las Vueltas depending on where you start. I like to recommend starting from Rio Electrico which means your first Mirador would be Piedra blanca because you get an easier start and you get to experience something new both ways.
- Next, you arrive at camp Poincenot. Here you should access the weather and take a nice break before the big uphill push.
- Next, you'll begin the summit push. It's very important you go at your pace. Every year 1-3 people have heart attacks.
Total distance and time hiking
This is a full-day hike, taking around 8 to 10 hours depending on your pace and how much time you spend at Laguna de los Tres. It has taken up to 14 hours with some of our clients.
24 km round trip from El Chaltén or 22.5 km from Puente del Rio Electrico.
Difficulty: Challenging
The majority of the trail is moderate, with the final 1 km ascent to the lake being the most challenging part due to the steep incline. People tend to start strong but the last kilometer can really slow people down. Sometimes going up isn’t as bad as coming down, if you have bad knees it’s really important to stretch while you are up at laguna de los tres. Not a bad idea to take an ibuprofen either with your lunch,
Trail Highlights
Laguna Capri
After a gentle start, the trail leads through a incredible forest filled with lenga trees, offering views of the Rio Blanco Valley. Along the way, you’ll pass stunning lookout points like Mirador Fitz Roy, which provides a breathtaking first view of Mount Fitz Roy in the distance.
Poincenot Campground
8 kilometers through the hike, you’ll reach Poincenot Campground, the base camp for Laguna de los Tres. Its a great place to take a short rest and refuel before tackling the most demanding part of the trek.
The Final Ascent to Laguna de los Tres
The final ascent is the most strenuous section of the hike. A steep, rocky trail climbs 500 meters (1,300 feet) over just 1 km, but once you reach the top, you’ll be greeted by the spectacular sight of Laguna de los Tres. The crystal-clear glacial waters reflect the towering spires of Mount Fitz Roy (IF WEATHER PERMITS), creating an unforgettable landscape.
Optional: Laguna Sucia Viewpoint
Just a short walk from Laguna de los Tres is an additional viewpoint overlooking Laguna Sucia, a deep turquoise lake nestled in a dramatic canyon below. This extra viewpoint adds even more depth and perspective to your experience at the top.
What to pack for Laguna de los Tres hike
Water and snacks/lunch
Bring your favorite snacks and your lunch. Water can be found roughly every 2-3 kilometers. A filter is not a bad idea. Ive never been sick but I’ve heard people have gotten sick drinking from Laguna Capri, no where else though.
Layered clothing
Pack a down jacket, fleece jacket, long sleeve shirt that is UV and sweat resistant. Bring base layer pants for colder conditions along with hiking pants. Merino wool socks are also strongly recommended for comfort and moisture control. Don’t forget include a buff and a hat to protect against wind, sun.
Boots or trail runners
Depending on the season bring lightweight boots or trail runners. No need for heavy hiking boots.
Sun protection
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are almost always need here in El Chaltén.
Hiking tips for Laguna de los Tres
Learn Windguru
Learning how to read Windguru forecasts will allow you to optimize your time here in El Chaltén. I give free Consultations on how to read and also provide daily weather reports that can help you chose the best date to hike Laguna de los Tres.
Start early to avoid crowds
Starting early not only allows you to capture the Alpenglow on the mountains but if conditions are good. You can expect 1000+ people heading towards the same place. Starting at 5:00 am or earlier allows you to beat the crowd up and if you are heading down before 11:00 you will avoid the giant crowds coming up to Laguna de los Tres.
Trekking poles
I always bring trekking poles. They help so much if my knees start hurting me coming back down from Laguna de los Tres. They can help you set a nice pace and also help you from tripping. Highly recommend. If you would like to rent trekking poles or any other gear I provide this service also.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Laguna de los Tres.
Is hiking Laguna de los tres safe?
Yes, hiking Laguna de los tres is relatively safe. But like all hikes in El Chaltén it has its dangers. Wind and weather complicate the hike also the different seasons create variables. I would like to say the trail is well marked, but if you are found in bad weather it can be easy to take a wrong turn and you will find yourself taking the long way home. Use an app like Gaia GPS to help you stay on trail.
Do I need trekking poles for the hike?
Yes, many hikers I’ve talked with have said they thought they didn’t need them, but the rocky steep section going up and down made them very grateful they had them.
Can it be done as a day hike?
Yes, many do it in 8-10 hrs from town. But if you start late you risk finishing in the dark or encountering wind. Either way 24km in a day is totally possible.
What to wear hiking in Patagonia?
Short answer: Dress in layers, prioritize wind/rain protection, and avoid cotton.
Core layers
Base layer: Synthetic or merino top (long/short sleeve depending on temp).
Mid layer: Fleece or light insulated jacket (synthetic or down).
Shell: Waterproof/windproof jacket (2.5–3L; taped seams, good hood); lightweight rain pants.
Bottoms: Quick-dry hiking pants or leggings; add thermal tights in cold/windy conditions.
Footwear
Shoes/boots: Sturdy, broken-in hikers with good tread (wet roots/rock).
Socks: Merino or synthetic; consider liner socks to prevent blisters.
Optional: Gaiters for mud/snow; microspikes in winter/early spring if icy.
Accessories (don’t skip)
Brimmed cap + warm hat (wind steals heat fast).
Gloves (light liner + wind/waterproof shell if cold).
Sunglasses (category 3–4 if near snow/ice); high-SPF sunscreen & lip balm.
Buff/neck gaiter for wind and sun.
Trekking poles (windy descents), small first-aid, space blanket.
Seasonal tweaks (Southern Hemisphere)
Summer (Dec–Feb): Light base, breathable mid, full shell for wind; sun gear is critical.
Autumn (Mar–May): Warmer mid layer; pack thin insulated pants/gloves.
Winter (Jun–Aug): Heavy mid + insulated jacket; thermal base on legs; microspikes/gaiters.
Spring (Sep–Nov): Unstable—bring full rain kit and warm layers even on “nice” days.
Key tips
Layer early: Add/remove before you sweat or chill.
Waterproof ≠ breathable: Vent (pit zips, front zip) during climbs.
No cotton: Stays wet, increases chill risk.
Is there snow/ice on the Laguna de los tres hike?
Outside the height of summer you may encounter snow or ice, especially early or late season. Bring microspikes/crampons if in doubt. Make sure you check the weather or feel free to contact me here if you have doubts.
Is the alternative route via Laguna Torre worth it?
If you are more experienced and want to squeeze in one big long day I would recommend this. The best way to do this would be to start the laguna de los tres hike from the classic start point, then on your way back this way.
Is Patagonia safe?
Yes, Patagonia is generally very safe for travelers. Most issues aren’t crime but weather, wind, distance, and logistics.
What to know
Cities & towns: Low violent crime; use normal precautions (watch bags at bus stations/ATMs, don’t leave gear in cars).
Trails: Main routes are well marked; biggest risks are strong winds, cold rain/snow, river crossings, and long distances between help. If Snow begins the trail can become difficult to follow.
Driving: Expect high winds, gravel, wildlife on roads, and long gaps between fuel, plan your stops.
Health & water: Tap water is usually safe in towns; treat backcountry water. Carry layers, first aid, and extra food.
Guides: A local guide improves safety calls (weather, timing) and makes the experience richer.
Insurance & contacts: Carry travel insurance and offline maps. Argentina emergencies: 911/107 (medical). Chile: 133 (police) / 131 (ambulance).
How do you use hiking poles?
Set length: Elbow near 90° on flats; –5–10 cm uphill, +5–10 cm downhill.
Straps: Hand up through loop, then grip—let the strap carry weight.
Technique: Opposite-foot planting on flats; plant slightly behind uphill to push, slightly ahead downhill to brake.
Crossings & wind: Two poles down for streams; short, firm plants in strong wind.
Avoid mistakes: Don’t overreach poles in front; no death grip; adjust for side-hills.
Care: Tighten locks; use baskets in mud/snow, rubber tips on rock/boards.
Is hiring a porter common in Patagonia?
Yes, many travelers in Patagonia, especially around El Chaltén, hire porters to enhance their experience and make challenging trails more manageable. Hiring a porter is a smart choice for those aiming to explore multiple trails or take on more challenging terrain.
How bad is the descent?
Descent can be hard on knees. Use poles, control your pace, avoid surging downhill. Watch your step and take it slowly, theirs a lot of loose rock.
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