Got 3 days to explore Patagonia's hiking capital? You’re in for a treat. El Chaltén may be a small town, but it packs some of the world’s most iconic trails, glacier views, and unexpectedly great food into one walkable, stunning valley.

In this guide, we're breaking down our exact 3-day plan based on our own trip to El Chaltén in November 2024. This mini itinerary works as a standalone adventure or as part of a longer Patagonia trip. If you’re planning more days in the region, check out our 8 Day Patagonia Itinerary.

After driving from El Calafate (around 3 hours), we arrived in El Chaltén and checked into Andino Aparts — spacious, clean, and a great base with a kitchenette for prepping trail snacks. If you’re looking for something more upscale, Los Cerros del Chaltén or Destino Sur Hotel are great picks too.

From first to last: El Chaltén at night, Mirador de los Cóndores, and Mirador de las Águilas

For your first hike, head to the Mirador de los Cóndores y Las Águilas. This mellow trail starts right behind the ranger station and takes 1–1.5 hours round-trip. You’ll get panoramic views of El Chaltén, the valley, and the Fitz Roy range — especially magical at golden hour.

This is the bucket-list hike — and it delivers. Book a transfer to the Senda El Pilar trailhead to do it as a loop (instead of out-and-back). You'll pass the Piedras Blancas Glacier early on and end the day near Laguna Capri.

From first to last: Laguna de Los Tres, the view from the trail, and hidden gem Laguna Sucia

The final climb to Laguna de Los Tres is steep and rocky, but absolutely worth the effort. If you have energy left, walk the short path to Laguna Sucia for one of the most underrated views in the park.

Don’t forget: hiking poles, good boots, and layers are key — Patagonia’s weather changes by the hour.

Depending on how your legs are feeling, you can either:

• Laguna Torre – 18 km round-trip, moderate, with Glaciar Grande as the grand finale.
• Glaciar Huemul – a lesser-known gem near Lago del Desierto, about 3.5 km round-trip, great views with fewer crowds.

From left to right: Glaciar Grande at Laguna Torre and lake view at Glaciar Huemul

Not driving? Stick to Laguna Torre — it starts from town. But if you have a car or a transfer, Huemul offers solitude and a glacier-framed lake.

We loved Maffia Trattoria (best lasagna ever) and Merino for Patagonian lamb. For post-hike treats, La Chocolatería Josh Aike is a must.

For lodging, Andino Aparts was a great mid-range choice. Browse more El Chaltén stays here.

• Start hikes early – better weather, fewer people.
• Download offline maps – we used AllTrails for everything.
• Dress in layers – sunshine and snow can happen on the same day.
• Plan meals – restaurants get packed fast, especially during dinner.

Is 3 days enough?

Yes! You won’t hike every trail, but you can hit the main ones and enjoy the vibe of this charming mountain town.

Can I visit without a car?

Absolutely. Laguna Torre, Laguna de Los Tres (via Sendero Fitz Roy), and town hikes are all accessible on foot. Transfers can help with longer trails like Huemul.

Best time to go?

Late November to early April is prime hiking season. Expect cool mornings, strong sun, and wind year-round.

How difficult are the hikes?

Laguna Torre is moderate. Laguna de Los Tres is strenuous with a steep final section. Glaciar Huemul is short but steady. All are well-marked and safe for independent hikers.

Where can I find more hiking options?

We’re working on a full breakdown of trails in our upcoming post: Best Hikes in El Chaltén: Complete Trail Guide.