From El Calafate: El Chalten Full Day

Embarking on an immersive journey through the breathtaking landscapes of El Chaltén, the National Capital of Trekking, the ‘From El Calafate: El Chaltén Full Day’ tour offers travelers a chance to experience the region’s natural wonders. With roundtrip transportation, a coffee stop, and a lunch box included, the guided adventure allows visitors to explore various hiking trails, from less demanding options to more challenging routes, weather permitting. As they take in the stunning views of Viedma Lake, Glacier, and the majestic peaks of Mount Chaltén and Mount Torre, you will undoubtedly be left in awe of the region’s remarkable beauty. But the true highlight of this tour lies in the opportunity to take in the captivating essence of El Chaltén.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Full-Day Tours In El Calafate.

Key Points

• Roundtrip transportation from El Calafate hotels to El Chalten, the National Capital of Trekking, covering a 220 km journey.
• Guided hiking options, including less demanding treks to Mirador de los Cóndores and Chorrillo del Salto, providing stunning mountain views.
• Opportunity to witness the breathtaking Viedma Lake and Glacier, as well as potential sightings of Mount Chaltén and Mount Torre.
• Exploration time of 5 hours in El Chalten to immerse in the natural beauty of the region, suitable for seasoned hikers and nature enthusiasts.
• Inclusion of a coffee stop at La Leona and a lunch box, ensuring a comfortable and convenient tour experience.

Tour Overview

The tour offers an immersive experience in El Chaltén, the National Capital of Trekking, located 220 km from El Calafate.

The journey includes crossing the Santa Cruz River, a stop at Estancia La Leona, and views of Viedma Lake and Glacier. Weather permitting, you’ll see the impressive Mount Chaltén and Mount Torre, as well as stunning icebergs.

The tour provides 5 hours of exploration in El Chaltén, allowing you to soak in the breathtaking landscapes of this trekking hub.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply seeking to learn about Patagonia’s natural beauty, this tour promises an unforgettable day of discovery.

Hiking Options

This tour offers suitable hiking options for less demanding treks. Visitors can choose to explore the Mirador de los Cóndores (700m, low difficulty) and Chorrillo del Salto (300m, flat walk), with a guided hiking experience included.

The hikes provide:

• Breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes

• Opportunities to spot the iconic Andean condors soaring overhead

• A chance to take in the natural beauty of El Chaltén

The guided nature of the hikes ensures travelers can make the most of their time in this picturesque destination, learning about the local environment and wildlife along the way.

Transportation Details

Roundtrip transportation from El Calafate hotels is included in the tour, with pickup from downtown hotels, though some hotels may not be accessible.

The tour departs at 7:30 am, ensuring an early start to the day’s adventure.

The group size is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, providing a more intimate and personalized experience.

This small-group format allows for flexibility and responsiveness to the needs and interests of the participants.

The transportation logistics are designed to minimize travel time and maximize the time spent exploring the stunning landscapes of El Chaltén, the National Capital of Trekking, located 220 km from El Calafate.

Inclusion and Pricing

The tour includes a coffee stop at La Leona, a lunch box, and gratuities.

Pricing for the El Chaltén Full Day tour starts from $94.00, with a lowest price guarantee. Travelers can take advantage of a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.

The inclusion of these amenities ensures a comfortable and convenient journey.

The pricing is also competitive, making the tour accessible to a wide range of travelers.

Plus, the flexible cancellation policy provides peace of mind for those who need to adjust their plans.

• Coffee stop at La Leona

• Lunch box provided

• Gratuities included

Customer Reviews

Travelers have provided an overall rating of 4.0 based on 9 reviews for the El Chaltén Full Day tour, with positive remarks on the beautiful views and excellent guides.

Reviewers praised the stunning scenery, including the Viedma Lake and Glacier, as well as the knowledgeable and engaging tour guides.

However, some travelers mentioned that the long travel time from El Calafate to El Chaltén left them wishing for more exploration time in the town itself.

Many recommended spending a few nights in El Chaltén to fully enjoy the hiking opportunities and enjoy the region.

Getting to El Chaltén

The tour includes roundtrip transportation from El Calafate hotels, with pickup from downtown locations, though some hotels may not be included.

The journey to El Chaltén takes around 2.5 hours each way, covering a distance of 220 km. Along the way, you’ll:

• Cross the Santa Cruz River, a major waterway in the region.

• Stop at Estancia La Leona, a historic ranch with stunning views of Viedma Lake and Glacier.

• Potentially catch glimpses of the iconic Mount Chaltén and Mount Torre, weather permitting.

The tour give you a convenient and comprehensive transportation solution, allowing you to focus on the natural wonders of El Chaltén without the hassle of arranging your own logistics.

Recommended Accommodations

Given the popularity of El Chaltén as a hiking destination, there are numerous accommodation options to consider when planning a visit.

While the town itself is relatively small, it offers a range of hotels, hostels, and cabins to suit different budgets and preferences. Travelers can find cozy mountain lodges, simple but comfortable hostels, or luxurious eco-lodges with stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

Many accommodations also provide amenities like Wi-Fi, restaurants, and outdoor recreation facilities. When booking, it’s best to reserve well in advance, especially during the peak summer season.

With so many options, visitors can choose the perfect home base to explore the breathtaking landscapes of El Chaltén.

Key Highlights

Typically, the El Chaltén Full Day tour offers visitors a chance to explore the National Capital of Trekking, showcasing the region’s stunning natural landscapes. The experience includes:

• Crossing the Santa Cruz River and stopping at the historic Estancia La Leona, where travelers can savor a coffee amidst the serene surroundings.

• Witnessing the breathtaking views of Viedma Lake and Glacier, weather permitting.

• Encountering the majestic peaks of Mount Chaltén and Mount Torre, as well as awe-inspiring icebergs, during the 5-hour exploration in El Chaltén.

This guided tour caters to less demanding hikes, allowing visitors to appreciate the region’s natural wonders at a comfortable pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Restroom Facilities Like During the Tour?

The tour provides restroom facilities at designated stops, such as Estancia La Leona. Travelers can use these facilities during the journey. Restroom access may be limited in more remote areas, so it’s recommended to plan accordingly.

Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated on the Lunch Provided?

The tour provider is generally able to accommodate dietary restrictions for the lunch box. Guests should communicate any needs when booking the tour, so the guide can ensure suitable options are provided.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to Explore El Chaltén Further?

Yes, there is an option to extend the tour and explore El Chaltén further. Travelers can opt for a longer excursion that provides more time to hike and fully enjoy the stunning scenery of this National Capital of Trekking.

Is the Transportation Suitable for Passengers With Limited Mobility?

The transportation provided for this tour may not be suitable for passengers with limited mobility. The itinerary involves some hiking and accessing remote locations, which could pose challenges for those with mobility constraints. Travelers should inquire about accessibility accommodations when booking.

Can I Bring My Own Hiking Equipment or Is It Provided?

Travelers can bring their own hiking equipment for this tour. While hiking gear is not provided, the tour includes a guided hiking experience, allowing participants to use their personal equipment during the excursion in El Chaltén.

Recap

The ‘From El Calafate: El Chaltén Full Day‘ tour offers an unforgettable adventure in Patagonia’s stunning landscapes.

With various hiking options, stunning vistas, and convenient roundtrip transportation, it’s an excellent way to explore the National Capital of Trekking.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or seeking a more leisurely experience, this guided tour provides an immersive and memorable journey through the breathtaking wilderness of El Chaltén.