Cerro Torre, El Chaltén, Patagonia Argentina

The Cerro Torre (Torre Mountain – 3128 meters above the sea level) is located in Argentina’s Patagonian region, right next to the village “El Chaltén”.

Trekkers and mountaineers from all over the world want to conquer this granite tower-shaped peak because of its distinctive summit and difficult climbing routes. The frozen mushroom on the top is the maximum reward a climber could get!

However, waiting for the right window for good weather, plus the several days that it takes to climb it, and the technical skills that one needs to do it, makes it a real challenge for most of the mountaineers, who end up choosing a smoother alternative.

Cerro Torre, hiking for amateurs and nature lovers

It’s not necessary to reach the top of the mountain to get amazed by the views: El Chaltén counts with several viewpoints from where you can get stunning views of Cerro Torre! And you can do it through full day or half day hikes, from the village. The key is to do it in a non-so-clouded day so the clouds don’t block the view.

A breathtaking journey through the heart of the Patagonian environment is the Laguna Torre trek. This hike is a must-go for every environment enthusiast because of its untamed landscapes, magnificent views, and varied fauna.

You’ll pass through lenga and coigüe tree forests, cross raging streams, and take in expansive views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers as you travel. A variety of species, such as guanacos, condors, and occasionally even pumas, will be visible to you.

The trek to Laguna Torre is relatively well marked and well-maintained, making it accessible to a variety of travelers despite its isolated position. It’s crucial to remember that this hike is still demanding, considering that you would have to walk for about 8 hours (back and forth). However, no special technical skills are required, and the trails are not really high in altitude (being rare to suffer from altitude sickness). To get a more secure and enjoyable visit, a professional guide is advised, but not mandatory.

The trail starts right at the back of the village, and you can combine it with other trails such as Laguna de los 3, and Lagunas Madre e Hija.

Other trails that allow you to have incredible views from Cerro Torre, are Loma del Pliegue Tumbado (about 8 hours return), Mirador de los Cóndores y de las Aguilas (very short hike in comparison), or the viewpoints that you have in between El Chaltén and Laguna Torre (different milestones such as Mirador Margarita). Even from the road, when you’re reaching the village, you can get a spectacular postcard with the Fitz Roy Mount next to it.

The key is that the weather allows you to see it, therefore, we suggest you to stay in El Chaltén no less than 3 nights (combining different trails).

Staying in the village or in the mountains

In terms of hotels, the neighborhood offers a variety of choices. For instance, from premium places such as Los Cerros, Destino Sur, and Chaltén Suites, to other interesting alternatives like Destino Sur and El Paraíso.

In the outskirts of the village, the Chalten Camp, which provides sustainable and environmentally friendly lodging in the middle of the forest, is another excellent choice. Likewise, the Explora hotel (luxurious), or the refuges Cagliero & Laguna Cóndor, are other good examples for places to stay away from the village.

If you want to stay in the mountains, there are different rural areas where you can camp, free or through a private tour.

Hiking tours and other experiences

In conclusion, if you’re seeking for a breathtaking outdoor adventure in Patagonia, you must make the excursion to Laguna Torre. However, El Chaltén is not only about Cerro Torre, but also about Fitz Roy Mount, and other attractions. We design custom tours in Patagonia; as a kick off, we invite you to explore our following tours and articles, and to get in touch to start planning your trip!