About
Laguna de los Tres is a lake in the mountains above El Chaltén, reached on foot. The walk is a strenuous day hike, and it leads to one of the best viewpoints of Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre, two of the most recognisable peaks in the area.
What the hike involves
The route is not an easy stroll. The final ascent is steep and challenging, so the climb asks for a reasonable level of fitness and a willingness to work hard for the view. Most visitors treat it as a full day out rather than a short excursion from town.
What you see at the top
The reward is close-up views of Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre, both rising sharply above the lake. Because you are near the peaks rather than looking at them from far below, the scale and the jagged profile of the mountains are the main draw. Photographers and mountain walkers tend to find the setting especially rewarding.
Planning your visit
- Go prepared for a long, demanding day, with water, food and warm layers, as mountain weather can change quickly.
- Wear sturdy footwear suited to steep, uneven ground.
- Allow time for the climb and the walk back, and do not leave the descent until late in the day.
El Chaltén itself is a small mountain village, and it makes a natural base for the walk. Staying in town means you can set out early and return to comfort afterwards. For visitors who enjoy hiking, Laguna de los Tres is a rewarding way to spend a day in this part of Patagonia.