Tucked deep in the wild terrain of the Reserva Los Huemules, just north of El Chaltén, Refugio Puesto Cagliero is a small mountain lodge that blends adventure with comfort in one of Patagonia’s most pristine corners. Nestled at the edge of the Glaciar Cagliero, this remote refugio is ideal for travelers looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in pure nature—while still enjoying a warm bed, hearty meals, and spectacular views.
Where is Refugio Puesto Cagliero?
Refugio Puesto Cagliero lies within Los Huemules Private Reserve, a protected area that offers well-maintained trails, incredible landscapes, and restricted visitor access. The reserve is located about 17 km north of El Chaltén, and the hike to the refugio takes 2 to 3 hours, depending on the route.
- Access point: Los Huemules Reserve (entry fee required)
- Trail length: Around 7 km one way
- Elevation gain: Moderate
- Difficulty: Moderate – some steep sections and optional via ferrata
The Hike In
There are two ways to reach the refugio:
- Standard Hiking Route – a scenic, forested path that winds through lenga woods and offers great views of surrounding peaks.
- Via Ferrata Option – a more adventurous approach, including a section of fixed cables and ladders that allow access to the Cagliero Glacier itself. This option usually requires a guide and special gear.
Along the way, hikers pass turquoise lagoons, panoramic ridges, and the majestic Laguna Diablo, with stunning views of Cerro Neumayer and the northern walls of the Fitz Roy range.
Refugio Features
- Capacity: Around 8 to 12 guests
- Amenities: Bunk beds, warm blankets, wood-burning stove
- Meals: Full-board option available (homemade food and wine)
- Electricity: Limited solar power
- Bathrooms: Dry toilets, no showers
Why Stay at Refugio Puesto Cagliero?
- Exclusive setting far from the tourist trail
- Wake up next to a glacier and towering peaks
- Ideal base for guided glacier trekking or ice climbing
- Incredible night sky for stargazing
- Quiet, personalized experience
Best Time to Visit
The refugio operates seasonally from November to March, with access and conditions subject to weather. It’s important to book in advance due to limited capacity and its popularity among off-the-beaten-path adventurers.
What to Bring
- Warm clothing (nights can be freezing)
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Camera and binoculars (great wildlife and landscapes!)
- Lightweight sleeping liner (blankets provided)
Patagonia Custom Tours
Refugio Puesto Cagliero offers something rare in Patagonia: a remote overnight experience in the mountains that combines raw wilderness with the cozy simplicity of a mountain hut. Whether you’re heading there for glacier adventure or to simply unplug for a night, it’s a place that will stay with you long after you’ve left.
We’re a local tour operator based in Buenos Aires, which offers custom tours in Patagonia and other regions of Argentina and Chile. We invite you to contact us, and start planning your next incredible journey to South America!
Get inspired by some of our travel ideas, listed below:
Fitz Roy Trek & W Trek – Patagonia Trekking Tour
W Trek Patagonia Trekking Tour – Torres del Paine
O Circuit Patagonia – Torres del Paine
Huemul Circuit & Glaciar Perito Moreno
Darwin Range Patagonia Expedition
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