Huemul Circuit
The Huemul Circuit is a challenging 4-day trek near El Chaltén with views of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. Learn about the full itinerary, gear list, campsites, glacier crossings, and permit requirements in this complete trekking guide.
Huemul circuit Itinerary
Plan your adventure on the Huemul Circuit with our detailed itinerary guide. Discover day-by-day routes, campsites, gear tips, and what to expect on one of Patagonia’s most challenging and rewarding treks.
Day 1: El Chaltén to Laguna Toro
Your journey around the huemul circuit begins at the southern end of El Chaltén. With the first section of the trail takeing you through lenga forests, steadily ascending until you reach the Pliegue Tumbado ridge, offering stunning views of Cerro Torre and the surrounding valleys. Afterward, the trail descends to the beautiful Laguna Toro, your first campsite for the night. The lake’s tranquil waters and surrounding peaks make it a perfect spot to rest after the first day of trekking. Camp here and prepare for the challenging days ahead.
Distance to laguna Toro
15 km (9.3 miles)
Time
6-7 hours
Difculty
Moderate
Elevation Gain
700 meters (2,297 feet)
Day 2: Laguna Toro to Paso del Viento
The second day is one of the most difficult but rewarding parts of the circuit. The day begins with a river crossing of the Río Túnel (either wading or using a zip line depending on conditions). From there, the trail becomes steeper as you ascend toward the Paso del Viento (Windy Pass). The final ascent is tough, but when you reach the top, you’ll be greeted with an unparalleled view of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field and its endless expanse of glaciers. Camp at Refugio Paso del Viento or nearby, where you’ll be treated to a breathtaking sunset over the ice eld.
Distance
16 km (9.9 miles)
Time
8-9 hours
Difculty
allenging (Technical)
Elevation Gain
800 meters (2,625 feet)
Day 3: Paso del Viento to Paso Huemul
This is one of the most rewarding days, as you continue along the edge of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, enjoying the spectacular views of Viedma Glacier and Cerro Huemul. The trail to Paso Huemul is steep and technical, requiring caution as you ascend. The day ends with a descent toward the Bahía de los Témpanos (Iceberg Bay), where you’ll camp for the night near the edge of Viedma Glacier. Prepare for incredible views of oating icebergs and stunning glacial landscapes.
Distance to paso del viento
18 km (11.2 miles)
Time
8-9 hours
Difculty
Challenging
Elevation Gain
500 meters (1,640 feet) (plus descent)
Day 4: Paso Huemul to Bahía Túnel
The final day of the trek offers a mix of steep descents and easier sections. You’ll make your way down toward Bahía Túnel, following the cliffs along Lago Viedma. As you descend, you’ll have spectacular views of the glacier and the vast lake below. The trek concludes at Bahía Túnel, where you’ll arrange transportation back to El Chaltén. After four days of intense trekking, you’ll return to civilization with a deep sense of accomplishment and a camera full of unforgettable memories.
Distance
14 km (8.7 miles)
Time
6-7 hours
Difculty
Moderate to Challenging
What to bring/rent for the huemul circuit
Backpacking Gear
Tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, and cooking supplies (selfsufcient camping is required). Some weight can be distributed between porters if contracted.
Technical Equipment
Climbing harness and carabiners with sling for river crossings (required), trekking poles, crampons (optional depending on conditions).
Food and Water
Carry enough food for 5 days (unless a porter is contracted, recommended). Water is available from streams, but purication tablets or water lter are recommended.
Clothing
Weatherproof and windproof layers, including insulated clothing for cold nights. Patagonia’s weather is unpredictable, so prepare for all conditions.
Maps and GPS
Although the trail is marked, GPS or a detailed map is carried by our guides as the terrain can be difcult to navigate, especially in bad weather.
Sun Protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential due to the intense sun at high altitudes and near glaciers.
Why Trek the Huemul Circuit with Connect Patagonia?
At Connect Patagonia, our expert guides and experienced porters, ensure that your experience on the Huemul Circuit is not only safe but deeply enriching. We provide guidance through the challenging terrain, share insights about the region’s unique geology and wildlife, and handle the technical aspects of the trek, from river crossings to navigating the steep passes. Our knowledge of the trail allows you to focus on the awe-inspiring beauty of Patagonia’s wilderness while we handle the logistics.
Pro tips
Permits
You must register at the National Park Ranger Station in El Chaltén before starting the trek.
Weather Check
Always check the weather forecast before setting out, as the conditions at Paso del Viento and Paso Huemul can be extreme.
Hire a photographer for huemul Circuit
Contracting a professional photographer for your hike is an incredible way to elevate your experience. Not only will they capture the stunning landscapes and personal moments that dene your journey, but their expertise in lighting, composition, and creative perspectives ensures your photos are far beyond ordinary. By handling the photography, they allow you to fully immerse yourself in the hike without the worry of getting the perfect shot, leaving you with high-quality, professionally edited images that will become lasting memories.
Hire a Porter for Huemul Circuit
Hiring one or more porters for the Huemul Circuit can signicantly enhance your trekking experience. By lightening your load, porters reduce fatigue, allowing you to conserve energy for the challenging sections and move at a more comfortable pace. This not only makes the hike safer, particularly during tricky river crossings and steep ascents, but also enables you to fully immerse yourself in Patagonia’s stunning landscapes. For groups, porters ensure everyone can hike together without some members being overburdened. Additionally, porters can carry extra comforts to improve your campsite experience and reduce the risk of injury. With their local expertise, porters can also offer valuable insights into the terrain and culture, freeing you up to focus on photography, exploration, and enjoying the adventure to its fullest.
