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Laguna Capri
Laguna Capri is a small glacial lake with an incredible view of the Mount Fitz Roy range. It is one of the easier hikes near El Chalten.
Distance: 8 Km ( 5 miles ) | Elevation gain: 400 meters (1300-1390 ft) | Duration: 3-5 hrs | Difficulty: Moderate
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Laguna Capri hike
The Laguna Capri hike is one of El Chaltén’s most popular shorter hikes, covering approximately 8 km round trip to a lakeside viewpoint of the Fitz Roy massif. Although no official trail-specific count is published, a reasonable estimate is that 150,000–180,000 people hike to Laguna Capri each year.
Distance: 8 Km ( 5 miles ) | Elevation gain: 400 meters (1300-1390 ft) | Duration: 3-5 hrs | Difficulty: Moderate
The Laguna Capri Hike starts directly from the northern edge of El Chaltén, so no vehicle transfer is required. Your guide will meet you at your hotel and accompany you to the beginning of the Fitz Roy trail.
The hike begins with a steady climb above the town. Although the first section contains most of the elevation gain, the trail is well defined and your guide will maintain a comfortable pace based on the group’s ability.
As the trail gains elevation, several openings provide views over the Río de las Vueltas valley, the surrounding Patagonian steppe, and the mountains beyond El Chaltén. The route then enters native lenga forest, where the terrain becomes more gradual and protected from the wind.
The middle section of the Laguna Capri Hike continues through the forest toward the Fitz Roy Valley. Along the way, your guide can explain the local landscape, native vegetation, wildlife, and the glaciers that shaped the surrounding valleys.
Upon reaching Laguna Capri, the forest opens to reveal the lake with Mount Fitz Roy rising in the background. On a clear day, you can also see several of the surrounding granite peaks, including Poincenot and Saint-Exupéry.
There is time to explore the lakeshore, take photographs, and enjoy a snack or light lunch beside the water. When the wind is strong, your guide will select a more sheltered location within the nearby lenga forest.
Laguna Capri is an excellent destination for travelers who want impressive views of the Fitz Roy Massif without completing the longer and more demanding hike to Laguna de los Tres. The Laguna Capri Hike is also well suited to families, photographers, and visitors with limited time in El Chaltén.
After visiting the lake, the Laguna Capri Hike returns to El Chaltén along the same trail. The return is mostly downhill, with another opportunity to enjoy the Río de las Vueltas viewpoint, native forest, and surrounding mountain scenery.
At the end of the hike, your guide will accompany you from the trailhead back to your hotel in El Chaltén.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Laguna Capri hike.
How long is the Laguna Capri hike?
The Laguna Capri hike is 8kms (5 miles) long. Typically, taking 3-5hrs for the round trip hike.
Do I need trekking poles for the hike?
It’s a good idea to always hike with trekking poles in Patagonia.
What do I need to bring?
Laguna Capri is a short hike but you should still bring everything you need to stay warm and safe. I recommend you bring : Small day back, 1 liter water bottle, Cell phone with offline maps downloaded, small first aid kit, snacks and or lunch.
Can I book for tomorrow?
Yes, next-day bookings are often possible, depending on guide availability, transportation, and weather conditions. Contact us as early as possible with your group size, preferred route, and accommodation details so we can confirm availability.
Is there an entrance fee for hiking Laguna Capri?
Yes. Since October 2024, Los Glaciares National Park charges an entrance fee for Laguna de los Tres. A single-day pass is 50,000 ARS as of June 1st 2026. Visitors can also buy 3-day or 7-day passes that reduce the daily cost.
Entrance fee link
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Laguna de los Tres
Discover Laguna de los Tres, one of the most popular hikes in El Chaltén, with unforgettable views of Mount Fitz Roy.
