Laguna de los Tres

A stunning alpine lake framed by dramatic peaks and accessible via one of Patagonia's most rewarding day hikes from El Chaltén. The trek rewards hikers with breathtaking views of turquoise waters surrounded by jagged mountain peaks.

Things to do

• Laguna de los Tres Hike — Trek the 9.3 km round-trip trail from El Chaltén to reach this alpine lake, typically taking 4-5 hours with steady elevation gain through Patagonian forest and open terrain.
• Peak Photography at Sunrise — Arrive early to capture the turquoise waters and surrounding granite peaks bathed in golden morning light, a photographer's dream that rewards an alpine start.
• Swimming in Glacial Waters — Take a refreshing dip in the crisp turquoise lake during warmer months to experience the glacial-fed waters firsthand.
• Mount Fitz Roy Views — Spot Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre on the distant horizon from elevated sections of the trail, providing stunning panoramic vistas.
• Wildflower Spotting — During spring and early summer, observe native Patagonian flora including calafate bushes and alpine wildflowers along the hiking route.
• Picnic by the Lake — Pack provisions from El Chaltén to enjoy an alfresco meal overlooking the dramatic mountain landscape at the lake's edge.

Food to try

• Choripán — Grilled chorizo sandwich served on crusty bread, a staple Argentine street food perfect for post-hike refueling in El Chaltén.
• Cordero Patagónico — Slow-roasted lamb from Patagonian herds, tender and flavorful, commonly served in local restaurants as a regional specialty.
• Empanadas de Queso y Cebolla — Baked pastries filled with melted cheese and caramelized onions, ideal portable snacks for the trek or quick meals in town.
• Trucha Ahumada — Smoked Patagonian trout, a local delicacy showcasing the region's abundant freshwater fish traditions and served in El Chaltén eateries.
• Alfajores de Chocolate — Dulce de leche-filled cookies coated in chocolate, a traditional Argentine sweet treat widely available in local bakeries.

Local customs & good to know

• Early Trail Starts Essential — Begin hiking by 7-8 AM to ensure sufficient daylight for the full trek and to avoid afternoon weather changes common in Patagonia.
• Weather Preparedness Required — Pack layers and rain gear as conditions can shift rapidly in the mountains; clear mornings often turn windy and cloudy by afternoon.
• Leave No Trace Ethics — El Chaltén maintains strict environmental standards; pack out all waste and stay on marked trails to protect this pristine alpine ecosystem.
• Spanish Language Helpful — While English is spoken in tourist areas, learning basic Spanish phrases enhances interactions with local guides and improves the village experience.