From El Calafate: La Leona Petrified Forest Day Trip

The "From El Calafate: La Leona Petrified Forest Day Trip" promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Patagonia. Embarking on a scenic drive along the legendary Route 40, visitors will discover the awe-inspiring landscapes that have captivated explorers for centuries. From the historical Hotel La Leona to the breathtaking Chorrillo del Salto waterfall, this eight-hour excursion invites travelers to enjoy the region’s untamed beauty. With a moderate hike, panoramic viewpoints, and expert commentary, the tour caters to both nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. What lies in store for those who embark on this remarkable journey?

Key Points

• An 8-hour day trip from El Calafate to the La Leona Petrified Forest, featuring a moderate 3-hour hike and panoramic views of Patagonia’s landscapes.
• The tour includes a visit to the historical Hotel La Leona site, connected to the infamous outlaws Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.
• Participants will enjoy a box lunch, guided commentary in English and Spanish, and transportation to and from their El Calafate hotels.
• The trip follows a 30-kilometer stretch of the renowned Mythical Route 40, offering opportunities to spot wildlife and take in the region’s natural wonders.
• The tour has an average fitness level requirement and includes a cancellation policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trip Overview

The La Leona Petrified Forest day trip offers participants an 8-hour adventure from El Calafate, priced from $229.00 per person.

This small-group tour is limited to 10 people and operates in both English and Spanish. Guests will be picked up from their downtown El Calafate hotels to begin the 30 km journey east along the Mythical Route 40, following Lake Argentino and the Santa Cruz River.

The main highlights include visiting the historical Hotel La Leona site and embarking on a moderate 3-hour hike with panoramic views of the Chorrillo del Salto waterfall, the Mirador de los Cóndores, and the Mirador de las Águilas overlooking Lake Viedma.

Itinerary Highlights

Departing early morning from El Calafate, the trip follows the Mythical Route 40 for 30 km along Lake Argentino and the Santa Cruz River.

The first stop is the La Leona River and the historical site of Hotel La Leona, which has ties to Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.

The moderate 3-hour hike includes visits to Chorrillo del Salto, Mirador de los Cóndores for panoramic views, and Mirador de las Águilas with vistas of Lake Viedma, Túnel Bay, and Pirámide Hill.

The tour is led by an English and Spanish-speaking guide and returns to El Calafate around 5:30 p.m.

Inclusions

Included in the day trip to the La Leona Petrified Forest is a box lunch provided to participants. The meal is served during the excursion, allowing guests to refuel and rejuvenate.

Plus, the tour is led by an English and Spanish-speaking guide who provides expert commentary and insights throughout the journey.

Pickup and drop-off from El Calafate hotels are also included, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience.

It’s worth noting that gratuities for the guide aren’t included in the tour price.

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance allows for a full refund, providing travelers with flexibility to adjust their plans as needed.

This policy ensures that customers can book their spot without the burden of immediate payment. Should their plans change, they can cancel and receive a full refund as long as it’s done at least a day before the scheduled tour.

This flexibility is especially valuable for those with unpredictable schedules or who want to keep their options open.

The "reserve now, pay later" option further enhances convenience, enabling participants to secure their spot without the upfront cost.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Fitness Requirements

The tour’s physical demands require an average fitness level due to the 3-hour trekking involved. While the hike is moderate, it does require a certain degree of endurance and mobility. To help assess your readiness, consider the following fitness indicators:

Metric	Minimum	Recommended	Ideal
Walking Distance	3 miles	5 miles	8 miles
Hiking Elevation	500 ft	1,000 ft	2,000 ft
Weekly Activity	2 hours	4 hours	6 hours

Participants should be able to comfortably navigate uneven terrain, rocky paths, and mild inclines. Proper footwear and hydration are essential. Those unsure of their fitness level are encouraged to consult with their healthcare provider before booking the tour.

Departure and Return

On the day of the tour, guests depart early from their hotels in downtown El Calafate. The 8-hour excursion begins with a 30-kilometer drive east along the mythical Route 40, following the shores of Lake Argentino and the Santa Cruz River.

Highlights of the journey include:

1. Visiting the historic site of Hotel La Leona, associated with the infamous outlaws Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.

2. Stopping at the Chorrillo del Salto waterfall for a refreshing break.

3. Taking in panoramic views from the Mirador de los Cóndores and Mirador de las Águilas viewpoints.

4. Returning to El Calafate around 5:30 p.m., completing the immersive day trip to the La Leona Petrified Forest.

About La Leona

Nestled within the vast expanse of Patagonia’s stunning landscapes, the La Leona Petrified Forest stands as a testament to the region’s ancient past. This unique natural wonder boasts an awe-inspiring collection of fossilized tree trunks, some dating back millions of years. Visitors can discover the petrified remains of a once-thriving forest, frozen in time and preserved by the region’s harsh climate.

Feature	Description
Fossilized Tree Trunks	Remnants of an ancient forest, frozen in time
Geological Significance	Provides insights into Patagonia’s prehistoric past
Scenic Viewpoints	Offer panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape
Historical Connections	Associated with the legendary outlaws Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid

The La Leona Petrified Forest is a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike, offering a unique window into Patagonia’s captivating natural and cultural heritage.

Mythical Route 40

Along the legendary Route 40, travelers embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Patagonia. This mythical route, also known as Ruta 40, stretches over 3,000 miles across the vast landscapes of Argentina.

The day trip to La Leona Petrified Forest follows a portion of this iconic highway, offering a glimpse into the region’s stunning vistas.

The route features:

1. Panoramic views of Lake Argentino and the Santa Cruz River.
2. Glimpses of the rugged Patagonian terrain, including mountains, glaciers, and vast grasslands.
3. Opportunities to spot local wildlife, such as guanacos, rheas, and condors.
4. A sense of adventure and exploration along one of the world’s most renowned road trips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Trip?

Yes, participants can bring their own food on the trip. The tour includes a provided box lunch, but travelers are welcome to supplement this with their own snacks or meals if they prefer.

Is There an Option to Add Additional Activities?

The tour doesn’t offer additional activities beyond the included hike and sightseeing. However, guests can explore El Calafate on their own before or after the day trip. No supplementary activities are available through the tour operator.

What Should I Pack for the Day Trip?

For the day trip, travelers should pack sturdy hiking shoes, layers of clothing, sun protection, snacks, water, and a camera to capture the stunning petrified forest and panoramic views. A small backpack is recommended to carry personal items.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the tour. The tour is suitable for participants of all ages, as long as they have the average fitness required for the 3-hour trekking portion of the activity.

Can I Store My Luggage During the Excursion?

The tour doesn’t provide luggage storage, but participants can leave their belongings on the bus during the excursion. Travelers are advised to bring only essential items they need for the hike and day trip.

Recap

The "From El Calafate: La Leona Petrified Forest Day Trip" offers an unforgettable adventure, providing the opportunity to explore Patagonia’s stunning natural wonders. Travelers can enjoy the region’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes, from the legendary Route 40 to the awe-inspiring Chorrillo del Salto waterfall. This guided tour caters to outdoor enthusiasts, offering a moderate hike, panoramic viewpoints, and a delightful box lunch, all within a small-group setting.

You can check if your dates are available here: