This iconic 12.5-mile round-trip trek leads to the most famous viewpoint of Mount Fitz Roy. The final mile is a strenuous vertical climb, but the reward is an unparalleled view of the granite massif, its three peaks, and the glacial Laguna de los Tres resting beneath. It is highly recommended to start this hike well before dawn, especially in summer, to catch the glorious sunrise colors (alpenglow) lighting up the peaks.

A moderately challenging 11-mile round-trip hike leading to Laguna Torre, a stunning glacial lake framed by the formidable, ice-covered spire of Cerro Torre. Icebergs often float in the lake, having calved from Glaciar Grande visible across the water. This trail offers different perspectives and landscapes than the Fitz Roy trek, including views of the Adela range, and is considered equally essential for visitors.

Easily accessible and suitable for those seeking a quick reward, this viewpoint is located just 1 mile from the start of the main Fitz Roy trailhead (Río de las Vueltas trail). The short walk offers excellent introductory views of the Fitz Roy massifs and surrounding valleys without requiring a full-day commitment. It’s an excellent spot for a sunset viewing or a short reconnaissance hike without straying far from town.

This is one of the easiest and most accessible hikes near El Chaltén, suitable for families and quick outings. A pleasant 1.8-mile round-trip walk through native forest leads to a charming, albeit small, waterfall cascading over rocks. It's a peaceful spot, perfect for a picnic lunch or a gentle introduction to the Patagonian wilderness without significant elevation gain.

Located off the main Laguna de los Tres trail, this detour leads to a close-up view of Glaciar Piedras Blancas. Visitors can observe the glacier dramatically carving down the valley wall, surrounded by rocky moraine and often hearing the distinct sounds of ice movement. This viewpoint offers a striking, intimate example of active glacial action within the national park.

Offering perhaps the best comprehensive panoramic perspective, this strenuous 15-mile round-trip hike ascends to a high ridge that provides sweeping views of not only Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre but also the vast expanse of Lago Viedma and the Patagonian steppes to the east. The high vantage point truly illustrates the geographical scale of the entire Los Glaciares region, making the challenging ascent worthwhile.

Situated about 2.5 miles into the Fitz Roy trail, Laguna Capri is a beautiful, sheltered spot famous for its perfect reflections of Mount Fitz Roy on clear, still days. It is often used as a popular campsite location or a shorter hiking objective for those not attempting the full Laguna de los Tres trek. The surrounding woods make it a highly picturesque setting for photography.

Viedma is the largest glacier in Argentina, part of the immense Southern Patagonian Ice Field. Visitors can take a boat trip across Lago Viedma to approach the massive, blue ice wall, or embark on a specialized guided trekking tour directly onto the glacier, walking on the ice with crampons. This tour requires transport from El Chaltén but provides an unparalleled, up-close perspective on the scale and texture of Patagonian ice fields.

Located near the entrance of Los Glaciares National Park, this mandatory stop provides crucial information about trail conditions, expected weather forecasts, and park regulations necessary for safe trekking. It houses excellent interpretive exhibits detailing the region's unique geology, endemic flora, and fauna, making it an important educational prerequisite before venturing out onto the trails.

After demanding days on the trails, the thriving local microbrewery scene offers a perfect reward. Establishments like Cervecería La Zorra and La Cervecería specialize in high-quality craft beers, often brewed using pure glacial water. They provide a cozy, rustic atmosphere where hikers gather to share stories, savor hearty local Patagonian fare like slow-cooked lamb, and enjoy the communal spirit of the town.