Refugio de Glaciares is an Eco Lodge and a private Nature Reserve located near El Chaltén, in the heart of Argentine Patagonia. Surrounded by majestic mountains and glaciers, this lodge offers a unique escape into one of the most beautiful and remote areas of the Andes. Precisely, it’s 27 km away from the village, in the direction of Lago del Desierto (50 minutes along Ruta 23, a gravel road, surrounded by pristine nature).
Conservation and Wildlife at Refugio de Glaciares
Refugio de Glaciares is dedicated to conserving the natural beauty of Patagonia. The reserve is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, which can be contemplated through different kinds of activities. Visitors can see native plants like lenga and ñire trees, and different kinds of fungus. Wildlife in the area includes guanacos, Andean condors, the elusive pumas & huemules (patagonian deer), giant wood peckers, among other species. The lodge’s conservation project aims to protect these species and their habitats while promoting sustainable tourism.
Why Refugio de Glaciares is so special
Despite the fact that the refuge itself has an exquisite design and delicious food, it allows the guests to visit different attractions in solitude, taking advantage of privileged access to spots that others may miss. This includes viewpoints around lagoons that lead to glaciers, native forests, and beautiful mountains.
Guests at Refugio de Glaciares can enjoy a variety of activities. The main popular ones are the following treks, that lead to lagoons, forests with lush vegetations, rivers, and glaciers:
- Glacier Cagliero and Rosa lagoon (5.30 hs return hike / 8 km / 250 mts slope).
- Milodon Lagoon (6 hs / 12 km / 190 mts).
- River de las Vueltas trail (4 hs / 5.5 km / 50 mts).
As the lodge is not far from the village, visitors can combine these activities with the most popular full day popular hikes of El Chaltén: Fitz Roy Trek (Laguna de los 3) and Lago Torre.
A minimum stay of 3 nights is recommended, and ideally 5 nights (or more) to combine with other hikes in the area.
Accommodation and Dining
Refugio de Glaciares has ten cozy rooms, with huge windows to enjoy the views. The lodge provides delicious meals featuring local ingredients – a 3 steps menu for dinner, and lunch boxes for the excursions. Guests can enjoy traditional Patagonian dishes, including fresh lamb, trout, and locally grown vegetables.
The lodge also offers vegetarian options. The programs include the meals, so the travelers can focus on enjoying nature and relax.
Experience Patagonian Hospitality and personalized tours
Refugio de Glaciares combines the rugged beauty of Patagonia with comfortable accommodations and warm hospitality. Whether you’re exploring glaciers, hiking through forests, or simply relaxing in the lodge, this unique destination offers an unforgettable experience in one of the world’s most beautiful natural settings.
In Beyond BA Latam, we offer personalized tours in Argentina and Chile, and we would love to help you to design the right trip for you.
As a kick off, we invite you to explore our following tours:
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