Patagonia trekking holiday

Description of Patagonia trekking holiday

As the world's third largest single expanse of ice (after Antarctica and Greenland), the South Patagonian Ice Field provides a stunning canvas for adventurers keen to test themselves against one of the natural wonders of South America. Entering via Argentina's Los Glaciares National Park, you enter a world of towering granite spires and massive glaciers, traversing a southern Andes wonderland where hard trekking provides memories for a lifetime.

After travelling under your own steam from El Calafate to El Chalten, join the group to head for the trek start near the iconic Marconi Glacier. Ease into things walking a forest trail by the Eléctrico River through a glacier valley, crossing moraines to your first camp at the shore of Lake Eléctrico.

The Marconi Glacier provides a tough challenge, scrambling and climbing on ice and snow - with the aid of crampons and ropes – to reach the edge of the vast Ice Field itself. Following days include a crossing of the Marconi Pass, with dramatic views to the still-active Lautaro Volcano, Mariano Moreno Range (much larger than the Fitz Roy Range), the De Los Cuatro Glaciares Pass and the Chico Glacier.

A trek to De Los Esquíes lagoon on a moraine of Viedma Glacier marks the end of the ice cap, and the pace eases over the Paso del Viento before a descent to Laguna Toro. Your final trek is a stunning walk back to El Chaltén – where showers, restaurants and celebratory drinks await!

For this trip, experience of crampons and snow-shoes is not a requirement, but previous experience of trekking and camping in winter conditions is beneficial. The need to carry communal kit and food as well as your own gear also means loads are heavy – so good fitness is required.

Departure information